Why Bicester Village Remains a Must-Visit Luxury Destination – 30 Years On

Bicester Village marks 30 years with nostalgic ‘90s experiences, luxe brand exclusives and irresistible shopping

There’s something uniquely satisfying about finding everything you want in one place, especially when that place combines high fashion, polished service, and a little countryside charm. Just under an hour from London, Bicester Village is that rare destination where shopping feels like an escape. Over the years, it’s become a magnet for well-heeled travellers from the Middle East, a name whispered on group chats and jotted down on holiday itineraries – not just for the unbeatable collections, but for the experience that surrounds them.

Now, Bicester Village is celebrating 30 years of doing exactly what it does best: creating an atmosphere where style and service go hand in hand. To mark the occasion, the Village has launched The Original Then, The Original Now, a two-part campaign that cleverly rewinds to 1995 – the year it all began – while setting the tone for what’s next.

The throwback spirit is everywhere this season. From 1 May to 1 July, guests can experience a nostalgic celebration of ‘90s culture, complete with a limited-edition collaboration with The Gentlewoman, immersive brand activations, and a chic range of retro-inspired merchandise. Think MAC’s cult-favourite lip shades, the return of Marc Jacobs’ grunge-era aesthetic, and scent-driven memory-lane moments courtesy of Penhaligon’s, Issey Miyake, and Jo Malone London.

This is shopping designed to engage every sense. Cecconi’s, Ottolenghi, and farmshop restaurant & café have crafted dishes priced at £19.95 as a nod to the Village’s opening year. Guests can pop into red phone booths-turned-listening stations playing curated ‘90s playlists, or stroll past a vintage-style newsstand stocked with ‘90s badges, caps, and copies of the exclusive 97-page 1995 magazine.

As always, the Bicester experience comes with elevated perks. Guests who register as members throughout May will be entered into a draw to win one of five ‘Keys to the Village’ – a golden ticket granting 12 months’ access to The Apartment (the Village’s exclusive invitation-only lounge), 30% off dining, reserved parking, and hands-free shopping. There’s also a chance to win a £1,995 gift card and an overnight stay at Oxford’s five-star Old Parsonage Hotel, simply by scanning a QR code while browsing.

Since its ribbon-cutting moment in April 1995, Bicester Village has grown from a singular retail concept into an international name with sister destinations near Paris, Milan, Shanghai and beyond. Despite the scale, it has stayed true to its core: a physical shopping experience that prioritises curation, convenience, and hospitality. And for fashion-conscious visitors from the Gulf, it remains a must-visit, especially during the summer months when London becomes a second home. Even better? Purchases made in the Village can go towards earning air miles with a range of travel partners – a small bonus for shopping well.

As the Village looks ahead to the next thirty years, the celebration is just getting started. Part two of the anniversary campaign, set to be revealed in June, promises more surprises and style-led moments. But for now, the message is simple: shopping is back, memories are in, and Bicester Village remains the original (and still the best) place to do both.

For more information, please visit thebicestercollection.com.