The much-anticipated Cotswolds Designer Outlet near the M5 in Tewkesbury is set to open its doors on Wednesday, July 16 at 10 am. Located off junction 9, this vibrant new shopping centre will feature more than 50 brand-new retail stores and dining options, offering a fresh destination for shoppers and food lovers alike.
During the Preview Week, from July 16 to July 20, visitors can explore a diverse mix of shops including renowned brands such as Reiss, Calvin Klein, Boss, Jack & Jones, The Body Shop, and The North Face. Foodies will enjoy a variety of eateries like Wagamama, Pret A Manger, Caffè Nero, Zizzi, and Five Guys, ensuring there’s something to satisfy every palate.
Among the exciting new additions is KNEAD Bakery, opening its sixth store and marking its first venture into outlet retail. Occupying a 1,183 sq ft space, KNEAD will bring award-winning handmade pastries, artisan breads, and expertly brewed coffee to shoppers. As the outlet’s sole independent business, KNEAD offers delicacies such as the Great Taste Award-winning Pecan & Maple Danish, Pain Au Chocolat, Sausage Rolls, Sea Salt & Rosemary Focaccia, and Lemon Meringue Pie. The menu caters perfectly to those looking for a treat to enjoy on-site or to take away.
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KNEAD’s commitment to quality is reflected in its use of speciality coffee from Bristol’s Extract Coffee Roasters and the handcrafted nature of every product. Founded in 2020 by John Hawes and Kris Biggs—who share a background in Michelin-starred kitchens—the bakery emphasizes tradition, quality, and seasonality. “We’re thrilled to be opening at the Cotswolds Designer Outlet this July,” said the co-founders. “This presents an exciting opportunity to introduce KNEAD’s experience to a wider audience in a bustling setting. Whether grabbing a fresh croissant and coffee before shopping or picking up sourdough to enjoy at home, we aim to become a must-visit spot in Tewkesbury.”
KNEAD Bakery has established a strong presence across Gloucestershire and Oxfordshire, with locations in Tetbury, Cirencester, Elkstone, and Oxford. Their innovative offerings include the KNEAD on Wheels mobile bakery and delivery service, alongside supper clubs, cementing their reputation as a leading bakery brand in the South West. The bakery recently won Best Café & Coffee Shop in Gloucestershire at the SOGlos Lifestyle Awards 2025 and has earned national accolades including recognition by La Liste and The Times.
Adrian Field, Centre Manager at Cotswolds Designer Outlet, expressed excitement about the launch: “We’re eager to open our doors and invite visitors to enjoy a range of activities and entertainment throughout July and into the summer holidays. Years of planning have gone into creating this outlet, and we’re proud to support local businesses and the community.”
To celebrate the opening, each retailer will host special in-store launch activities, offering a unique experience of their brand. The first week will also feature performances by local talents, including music, magic, children’s crafts, and surprise acts of kindness such as giveaways and vouchers.
Families can enjoy additional amenities like a giant doodle wall and a dog selfie station, making the outlet an enjoyable destination for visitors of all ages—whether on two legs or four.
Additional facilities include a Quiet Room and baby feeding room, free Wi-Fi, and a shuttle bus service to and from the town centre. The Cotswolds Designer Outlet is located at Platinum Drive, Tewkesbury, with sat nav code GL20 7FY and What3Words cross.dumpling.safely.
Don’t miss the grand opening and the opportunity to discover the best in shopping, dining, and entertainment at the new Cotswolds Designer Outlet.