Castle Quay Shopping Centre, Banbury
Banbury’s vibrant shopping and leisure destination with over 60 stores, unique community spaces, and scenic canal-side dining.
Castle Quay Shopping Centre is Banbury’s premier retail, dining, and leisure destination, located in the heart of the town. It offers over 60 stores, a variety of eateries, and entertainment options including the unique Lock29 community space. With easy access and ample parking, it blends shopping convenience with a vibrant atmosphere along the Oxford Canal.
A brief summary to Castle Quay Shopping Centre
- Castle St, Banbury, OX16 5UN, GB
- +441295256296
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 8:30 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 8:30 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 8:30 am-6 pm
- Thursday 8:30 am-6 pm
- Friday 8:30 am-6 pm
- Saturday 8:30 am-6 pm
- Sunday 10:30 am-4:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit Lock29 for a unique mix of independent food vendors, pop-up cinema, and community events.
- Use the Shire Mobility scheme if you need assistance with mobility during your visit.
- Parking is free overnight from 6:00pm to 7:00am, and EV charging is available in designated car parks.
- Most shops close by 6:00pm, but the Banbury Market and Lock29 entrances stay open later for evening visits.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Car
Driving to Castle Quay Shopping Centre from the M40 motorway takes approximately 15 to 25 minutes depending on traffic. The centre is well-signposted with ample parking available 24 hours, including free parking overnight from 6:00pm to 7:00am. EV charging stations are located in the North 1 and North 2 car parks. Parking fees apply during the day, payable by card or cash.
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Bus
Banbury bus station is within walking distance of Castle Quay, with frequent local and regional services connecting from Oxford, Bicester, and surrounding towns. Bus journeys typically range from 20 to 60 minutes depending on origin. Bus stops near the centre provide convenient access, though service frequency may reduce on Sundays and public holidays.
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Train
Banbury railway station is about 1.5 km from Castle Quay, a 20-minute walk or a short taxi ride. Trains connect Banbury to London Marylebone in approximately one hour and to Birmingham in about 45 minutes. Taxis and local buses provide onward transport from the station to the shopping centre.
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Walking
If staying nearby in Banbury town centre, Castle Quay is accessible on foot via well-maintained pavements and pedestrian crossings. Walking times vary from 5 to 20 minutes depending on your starting point. The terrain is flat and suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.
Castle Quay Shopping Centre location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Castle Quay Shopping Centre
A Central Hub for Shopping and Leisure
Castle Quay Shopping Centre stands proudly in the heart of Banbury, Oxfordshire, serving as the town’s main retail and leisure complex. Housing over 60 stores, it caters to a wide range of shopping needs from fashion and beauty to gifts and essentials. The centre’s layout is designed to provide a comfortable and accessible shopping experience, with multiple entrances and well-signposted facilities.Lock29: A Creative and Sustainable Community Space
One of Castle Quay’s standout features is Lock29, a vibrant community destination within the centre’s former BHS store. Lock29 hosts a diverse collection of food and drink artisans, a casual pop-up cinema, and educational activities. This space celebrates local creativity and sustainability, offering visitors a unique blend of independent retail and cultural events that reflect Banbury’s character and heritage.Dining and Entertainment Along the Waterfront
The shopping centre’s waterfront location beside the Oxford Canal adds a scenic charm to the visitor experience. The Waterfront area offers a variety of restaurants and cafes where shoppers can relax and enjoy views of the canal. Entertainment is further enriched by The Light, a cinema venue within the centre, providing a full day out for families and friends.Accessibility and Visitor Amenities
Castle Quay is designed with accessibility in mind, supporting the Shire Mobility scheme to assist visitors with disabilities by providing mobility equipment. Baby changing facilities and bottle warming are available near the Lock29 area. The centre offers 24-hour car parks with free parking overnight and EV charging points, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.Opening Hours and Visitor Flow
The centre operates from 8:30am to 6:00pm Monday to Saturday, with Sunday hours from 10:30am to 4:30pm. While most entrances close after 5:30pm, the Banbury Market Entrance and Lock29 Entrance remain accessible later. These hours support a steady flow of visitors throughout the day, balancing busy shopping times with quieter periods.Location and Surrounding Environment
Situated on Castle Street, Castle Quay is easily reachable from the M40 and major roads connecting Banbury to Oxfordshire and beyond. Its position along the Oxford Canal not only enhances the shopping experience but also connects visitors to Banbury’s historic and natural surroundings, including towpath walks and canal boat moorings.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Bliss Tweed Mill
20.7 km
A striking Victorian tweed mill in Chipping Norton, blending industrial heritage with elegant architecture and scenic Cotswold views.
Stratford Butterfly Farm
28.7 km
Explore the enchanting Stratford Butterfly Farm, where thousands of butterflies create a vibrant ecosystem in the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon.
Clopton Bridge
28.8 km
Explore the enchanting Clopton Bridge in Stratford-upon-Avon, where history meets stunning river views in a picturesque setting.
Bancroft River Cruises
28.8 km
Discover the beauty of Stratford-upon-Avon with Bancroft River Cruises, offering scenic boat tours that showcase the town's rich history and stunning landscapes.
Tramway Bridge
28.9 km
Historic 1826 red brick pedestrian bridge over the River Avon, blending industrial heritage with tranquil riverside views in Stratford-upon-Avon.
Stratford Upon Avon Bandstand
28.9 km
Historic bandstand in Stratford-upon-Avon offering free summer concerts and a vibrant community atmosphere in a scenic park setting.
Shakespeare's Funerary Monument
29.0 km
Discover the historical significance of Shakespeare's Funerary Monument in Stratford-upon-Avon, a tribute to the legendary playwright's remarkable legacy.
Gower Memorial
29.0 km
Discover the Gower Memorial in Stratford-upon-Avon, an artistic tribute to Shakespeare surrounded by lush gardens and rich literary history.
The Countess of Evesham
29.0 km
Indulge in traditional British cuisine at The Countess of Evesham, a charming restaurant on the waterside in Stratford-upon-Avon, surrounded by natural beauty.
Holy Trinity Church
29.0 km
Explore Holy Trinity Church in Stratford-upon-Avon, a historic Anglican church and the final resting place of William Shakespeare, steeped in literary heritage.
William Shakespeare
29.0 km
Explore the magnificent sculpture dedicated to William Shakespeare in the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon, a tribute to the Bard's timeless legacy.
Bancroft Basin
29.0 km
Explore Bancroft Basin, a serene marina in Stratford-upon-Avon, where nature meets history in a picturesque setting perfect for all travelers.
Bancroft Gardens
29.0 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Bancroft Gardens, a lush park along the River Avon in Stratford-upon-Avon, perfect for relaxation and exploration.
Royal Shakespeare Theatre
29.0 km
Discover the Royal Shakespeare Theatre in Stratford-upon-Avon, where the legacy of Shakespeare comes to life through captivating performances and stunning architecture.
The Stratford Chain Ferry
29.0 km
Experience the charm of Stratford-upon-Avon on the Stratford Chain Ferry, where scenic views and history come together on the River Avon.
Unmissable attractions to see
Broughton Castle
4.6 km
Explore Broughton Castle, a moated Tudor manor steeped in Civil War history, stunning gardens, and centuries of family heritage near Banbury.
Sulgrave Manor
11.3 km
Explore Sulgrave Manor, the Tudor home of George Washington’s ancestors and a lasting symbol of Anglo-American friendship and heritage.
Cotswolds Distillery Visitor Centre
16.4 km
Discover the art of whisky and gin crafting at the scenic Cotswolds Distillery, where tradition meets innovation in the heart of Warwickshire.
British Motor Museum
17.2 km
Explore the world’s largest collection of historic British cars and discover the rich heritage of Britain’s motor industry in the heart of Warwickshire.
Fairytale Farm
18.2 km
Discover a magical farm adventure with fairy tale play areas, friendly animals, and enchanting events for the whole family near Chipping Norton.
The Rollright Stones
18.8 km
Explore the enigmatic Rollright Stones, a trio of ancient megaliths steeped in legend and prehistoric ritual on the Oxfordshire-Warwickshire border.
Compton Verney Art Gallery and Park
19.0 km
Explore world-class art and serene Capability Brown parkland at Compton Verney’s historic Georgian mansion.
Bicester Heritage
21.1 km
Explore the UK’s premier historic motoring campus where vintage cars, aviation heritage, and passionate craftsmanship come alive.
The Old Flight House
21.7 km
Explore a stylish emporium of antiques, vintage treasures, and a charming café in a spacious, light-filled setting near Bicester.
National Trust - Stowe Gardens
22.1 km
A masterpiece of 18th-century landscape design, where classical temples rise from sweeping parkland and serpentine lakes.
Temple of British Worthies
22.2 km
Discover the Temple of British Worthies in Buckingham, a landmark celebrating revered figures of British history amidst beautiful gardens.
Gothic Temple
22.3 km
Experience the charm and architectural beauty of the Gothic Temple, an iconic landmark in Buckingham that transports you to a romantic past.
Pebble Alcove
22.4 km
Explore Pebble Alcove in Buckingham, a stunning landmark that combines unique architecture with serene natural beauty for a perfect getaway.
Bicester Village
22.5 km
Luxury designer outlet village with 150+ boutiques, up to 70% off, and festive charm near Oxford.
National Trust - Chastleton House
23.9 km
Step into a 400-year Jacobean time capsule at Chastleton House, where history, architecture, and gardens tell stories of English heritage and family legacy.
Essential places to dine
The Orangery at RH England
9.5 km
Elegant live-fire dining in a grand orangery with scenic deer park views and refined, high-quality cuisine in Aynho Park.
The Royal Oak
16.2 km
Michelin-starred Cotswolds gastropub where 800 years of history meets wild, foraged fine dining.
Whistlers Restaurant
19.7 km
Whistlers Restaurant offers vibrant modern British dining with fresh ingredients, lively atmosphere, and a welcoming bar in Chipping Norton.
the scenic supper
21.3 km
Experience farm-to-table dining in a stunning Cotswold glasshouse with seasonal menus and panoramic countryside views.
The Oak Room Restaurant
22.0 km
Elegant dining in a historic setting at Ettington Park, where refined British cuisine meets warm, attentive service.
Cecconi's Bicester
22.7 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and artisanal dishes in the stylish heart of Bicester Village.
The Chequers, Cotswolds
24.1 km
A stylish Cotswold gastropub in Churchill, serving elevated pub classics in a warm, lively atmosphere with a lovely garden and a strong local following.
The Orangery Restaurant
25.2 km
Charming dining with scenic views at Charlecote Park’s historic Orangery Restaurant, perfect for light bites and cream teas.
The Folly
25.4 km
A charming British inn in Towcester offering generous portions of classic dishes in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Dining Room at Mallory Court Hotel & Spa
25.5 km
Elegant country house dining with seasonal, garden-grown British cuisine in a historic, intimate setting near Leamington Spa.
The Kingham Plough
25.7 km
A charming Cotswold village inn blending traditional character with modern British cuisine and stylish comfort in the heart of Kingham.
Beefeater Buckingham
25.8 km
Classic British steakhouse and family-friendly grill in Buckingham offering hearty meals, welcoming service, and a lively casual atmosphere.
The Wild Rabbit
26.0 km
Charming Georgian inn in Kingham offering refined British cuisine, eco-conscious hospitality, and stylish countryside retreats in the heart of the Cotswolds.
Allium Dining
26.3 km
Intimate farm-to-table dining in Buckinghamshire, where seasonal British produce meets creative culinary artistry.
The Stag at Offchurch
27.0 km
Historic 16th-century thatched pub offering refined British and European dining in the scenic village of Offchurch near Leamington Spa.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Daisy B's Boutique
21.4 km
Discover unique fashion pieces at Daisy B's Boutique in Southam, a must-visit destination for ladies' clothing and personalized service.
Meadow Walk Shopping Centre
24.9 km
A charming compact shopping centre in Buckingham featuring independent shops, cafes, and convenient parking in a friendly community setting.
The Cotswold Snug
26.4 km
Discover authentic Cotswold crafts and gifts in a cozy, welcoming shop nestled in the heart of Moreton-in-Marsh’s historic High Street.
Cotswold Grey
26.5 km
Discover rustic elegance and expert interior design at Cotswold Grey, Moreton-in-Marsh’s premier home furniture and décor destination.
Beehive Gifts
27.3 km
Discover unique gifts and heartfelt treasures at Beehive Gifts, Northampton’s charming boutique for all occasions.
House Of Carillon
27.3 km
Discover elegant ladies' designer fashion in a charming Victorian courtyard boutique at Heart of the Shires Shopping Village.
Heart of The Shires
27.4 km
Discover a charming Victorian courtyard shopping village with unique independent retailers and a relaxed countryside atmosphere.
margo&evie
27.4 km
Discover unique vintage treasures and handcrafted curiosities at margo&evie, a charming independent shop in Northamptonshire’s Heart of the Shires.
Leamington Shopping Park
28.1 km
Discover a vibrant shopping destination with free parking, top brands, and a welcoming open-air environment in the heart of Royal Leamington Spa.
Cotswold Trading - Leamington Spa
28.7 km
Discover stylish homewares and unique gifts at Cotswold Trading, Leamington Spa’s award-winning destination for curated, quirky collections.
Life of Mou
28.8 km
Discover Life of Mou, a warm and curated slow fashion boutique blending vintage charm and sustainable style in Leamington Spa.
Collective Home Store
28.8 km
Discover unique home and lifestyle accessories in Leamington Spa’s eclectic Collective Home Store, where style meets quality and quirkiness.
Royal Priors Shopping Centre
28.8 km
Leamington Spa’s premier indoor shopping centre with spacious malls, diverse stores, and convenient access in the town’s historic heart.
Stone The Crows
28.8 km
Discover quirky gifts and stylish homeware at Stone The Crows, a beloved Leamington Spa boutique known for unique finds and excellent service.
Lilac Rose
28.8 km
Discover unique British fashion and accessories at Lilac Rose, Leamington Spa’s vibrant independent boutique with a curated, colourful collection.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Howard Arms Ilmington
24.6 km
A charming 400-year-old Cotswold inn blending historic warmth, fine dining, and stylish comfort in the heart of Ilmington village.
The Kings Head Coffee & Gin Bar
24.7 km
Historic pub meets vibrant coffee and gin bar with a sunny courtyard garden in the heart of Buckingham’s Market Hill.
The Grand Junction
24.8 km
A vibrant Mediterranean-inspired pub in Buckingham with wood-fired pizzas, cozy bar, private function room, and charming courtyard dining.
The Leopard Inn - Bishops Tachbrook
25.2 km
A classic British pub in Bishops Tachbrook offering hearty meals, excellent real ales, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere near Leamington Spa.
Royal Horse
26.8 km
A vibrant, family-friendly pub in Royal Leamington Spa offering hearty British fare, lively events, and warm hospitality since 2013.
The Fox at Oddington
26.8 km
Historic 16th-century Cotswold pub blending rustic charm with organic cuisine and cozy countryside stays in Lower Oddington.
The Micro Pug
27.9 km
A lively canal-side pub and coffee spot in Leamington Spa, blending great drinks, fresh food, and a buzzing social scene with scenic waterside charm.
The Boiler Room
28.3 km
An independent, quirky craft beer bar in Leamington Spa with artisan ales, lively music, and a cozy, intimate vibe.
The Drawing Board
28.6 km
Eclectic gastropub with vintage comics, gourmet bar food, and award-winning craft beers in the heart of Leamington Spa.
The Royal Pug
28.7 km
A lively and welcoming pub in Leamington Spa with great food, drinks, live entertainment, and a charming garden setting.
The Bear
28.7 km
Historic riverside pub in Stratford-upon-Avon serving classic ales and comforting British fare in a warm, cosy setting with scenic river views.
Fizzy Moon Brewhouse & Grill
28.9 km
Eclectic brewhouse and grill in Leamington Spa offering craft beers, hearty pub fare, and a uniquely stylish atmosphere.
Cox's Yard, Stratford-Upon-Avon
28.9 km
Lively riverside pub in Stratford-upon-Avon blending casual dining, sports, and scenic views by the River Avon.
Bedford Street Bar
28.9 km
Lively grill and bar venue in Leamington Spa offering live jazz, classic British dishes, and a vibrant social atmosphere with heated outdoor seating.
The Clarendon Leamington Spa
29.0 km
Lively sports bar and pub in Leamington Spa with live games, craft beers, great food, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Neon
28.3 km
Leamington Spa’s largest nightclub, Neon delivers vibrant music, themed nights, and a dynamic party atmosphere every Friday until dawn.
Altoria Nightclub
29.0 km
Experience Leamington Spa’s vibrant nightlife at Altoria Nightclub with diverse music floors, VIP service, and a unique rooftop terrace open till 3 am.
Smack
29.1 km
Leamington Spa’s energetic and affordable two-floor nightclub with a storied past and a lively, if sometimes challenging, atmosphere.
The Stratford Upon Avon Bridge Club
29.2 km
Explore the vibrant community of The Stratford Upon Avon Bridge Club, where bridge enthusiasts gather for games, camaraderie, and local culture in a picturesque setting.
Caz Bar Nightclub
29.3 km
Experience Stratford-upon-Avon's glamorous late-night vibe at Caz Bar, a vintage cellar nightclub with live DJs, dancers, and premium drinks until dawn.
Fat Cat Comedy Club
29.3 km
Discover the joy of laughter at Fat Cat Comedy Club in Stratford-upon-Avon, where each show promises an unforgettable night of entertainment.
Stratford Play House
29.5 km
Discover the vibrant world of performing arts at Stratford Play House, where drama, comedy, and culinary delights come together in Stratford-upon-Avon.
The Cavern
31.2 km
A vibrant night club in Warwick offering energetic music, lively dancing, and a social atmosphere for unforgettable nights out.
Fever Oxford
34.7 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant nightlife at Fever, a multi-room nightclub blending live DJs, dynamic music, and a lively party atmosphere.
The Bridge Nightclub
34.8 km
Oxford’s lively student-focused nightclub with diverse music, multiple dance floors, and a spacious pub garden for late-night socializing.
Oxford Leisure Ltd
34.8 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant nightlife with dynamic music, themed events, and a lively dance floor at Oxford Leisure Ltd.
ATIK Oxford
34.8 km
Oxford’s largest nightclub with diverse music rooms, vibrant atmosphere, and strong security, offering a late-night hub for students and locals alike.
Kiss Bar
34.8 km
An intimate late-night club in Oxford known for its vibrant atmosphere and close-knit party scene until its recent closure.
Plush Oxford
34.8 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant, inclusive nightlife hotspot with great music, cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere at Plush Oxford.
The Varsity Club
34.9 km
Experience Oxford’s skyline from a stylish rooftop bar with creative cocktails, lively vibes, and multi-level nightlife excitement.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Fun-filled
- Scenic
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Waterfront
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
