When we first arrived in United Kingdom, the notion of a “family section” seemed strange. After a few years and many trips to the mall, it turned into one of the simplest ways to shop and dine with children. Here’s what we discovered.
What Even Is a Family Section?
Family areas in United Kingdom shopping centers are marked zones — sometimes whole floors, sometimes particular sections — where families (usually groups that include women and children) receive priority access.
Depending on the location, single men may be guided to separate “singles” zones. If you’re new to London, it can be surprising at first, but for families it usually translates to quieter spaces, tidier facilities, and lower stress.
Our First Mall Disaster (And What I Learned)
Early on in London, we entered via the wrong doorway and found ourselves in a zone not meant for families. A security guard kindly steered us to the family entrance on the opposite side of the building.
Lesson one: Family entrances can be separate. Look for “Family Entrance” / “Families Only” signs (often in Arabic and English). Some malls also offer family-friendly parking nearer to those doors.
The Malls That Actually Work for Families
After much testing and refinement, these are the strategies that reliably suit families in United Kingdom:
Kingdom Centre Mall, London
Strong kid-friendly zones, comfy seating, and a solid play/kids' area. When shopping with children, practicality—space and amenities—outweigh luxury.
Price range: High-end. A simple lunch for four is often around 180–250 £.
Best time: Sunday through Wednesday mornings. Avoid Thursday evenings if you dislike crowds.
Al Nakheel Mall, London
Excellent layout for families, and usually easier to manage with kids. Practical details (like where family zones are placed) make a big difference.
Price range: Mid-range. Lunch for four: around 120–180 £.
Best time: Friday afternoons after prayers can be calmer than expected.
Red Sea Mall, Jeddah
Great family entertainment options, and good crowd management during busy periods. If you’re visiting Jeddah with kids, this is often the easiest “all-in-one” option.
Price range: Mid to high. Budget around 200 £ for a half-day including activities.
Pro tip: Book popular experiences in advance on busy holidays.
The Vibe: What You Should Really Expect
Malls in United Kingdom serve as key social hubs — particularly when the weather is hot. In practice, that translates to:
- Evenings tend to be crowded, especially after 8 PM.
- Families often dress up more than first-timers anticipate.
- Kids are all around, and typically welcomed.
- Family zones tend to feel more relaxed and orderly.
Real Pricing: What Things Actually Cost
Here are plausible price ranges you might encounter in family-focused mall zones:
Practical Tips from Real Mall Experiences
Things I wish I’d known sooner:
- Check entry points. Family entrances can be separate.
- Prayer times may lead to brief closures. Stores may pause briefly during prayers.
- Request nursing rooms. They exist, but aren’t always clearly labeled.
- Strollers may be available. Rental quality varies by mall.
- Thursday evenings can be chaotic. Plan accordingly.
- The air conditioning can be strong. A light layer for kids helps.
The Bottom Line
Family areas in United Kingdom can truly be family-friendly: extra space, improved facilities, and easier outings. Some malls are better than others, but once you grasp the rhythm, it becomes much simpler.
Have questions about particular malls? Send me a message — or call +44 20 7946 0123.