7 fun things to look forward to at Gloucester Quays this summer

From seeing the brand-new Barbie movie to eating your way around the FREE food festival, there's loads to look forward to at Gloucester Quays this summer 2023.

By Chloe Gorman  |  Published
Celebrate summer's arrival at Gloucester Quays, with everything from the Barbie movie on the big screen to the monthly Orchard Street Market to enjoy in 2023.
In partnership with Gloucester Quays  |  gloucesterquays.co.uk
Gloucester Quays

With up to 70 per cent off retail prices at its collection of high end and high street stores, a multiplex cinema showing the latest films and a wealth of delicious dining options, Gloucester Quays is Gloucestershire’s premium shopping destination.

There's loads going on down at Gloucester Quays this summer, from the return of its famous food festival to the brand-new Barbie movie hitting the big screen.

With plenty to entertain visitors big and small, SoGlos rounds up just some of the highlights taking place at the popular shopping destination during July and August 2023... 

Enjoy alfresco shopping at Orchard Street Market

Taking over Orchard Square on the first weekend of every month, the open-air Orchard Street Market brings some of the tastiest traders in the south west to Gloucester Quays.

Browse for everything from fresh produce, artisan cheese, homemade bread and cakes to beers and spirits; tuck into street food; enjoy live music from local bands; and soak up the buzzing atmosphere down at the docks. 

Kids eat free during the summer holidays

Little tummies are in for a treat at Gloucester Quays during the school summer holidays, with kids eating free with a paying adult at The Real Greek and Bill's

Kids can enjoy a Greek feast of meze and souvlaki, or tasty brunch dishes, burgers or even buttermilk fried chicken  — while mum and dad can enjoy a big discount on their bill! 

See the Strongman Champions League England

England's strongest men are putting on an impressive show at Gloucester Quays this summer as they compete in the Strongman Champions League.

The thrilling event — which sees competitors take on challenges like Viking deadlifts and the famous Atlas Stones — takes place on Saturday 12 August 2023, with the show being broadcast live on television, too. 

Embrace your inner Barbie

Greta Gerwig's eagerly-anticipated Barbie movie hits cinema screens on Friday 21 July 2023 — and Gloucester Quays is going to town to celebrate. 

Moviegoers can embrace their inner Barbie by posing for a picture in the Barbie Box selfie station before seeing the colourful movie, which stars Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling as Barbie and Ken; while grown-up Barbie fans can sip on specially-themed cocktails at Bill's and Coal Kitchen.

Eat your way around the Gloucester Quays Food Festival

Gloucester Quays' FREE food festival is back on Saturday 22 and Sunday 23 July 2023, with a packed programme across the two-day event.

See live cookery demonstrations from Levi Roots, Cherish Finden, Bake Off stars Sandro Farmhouse, Janusz Domagala, Crystelle Pereira and Freya Cox; browse 150 food stalls; enjoy family entertainment including face painting, stilt walkers and an 'edible bubbleologist'; and listen to live music throughout the weekend, too. 

Enjoy free summer holiday activities 

Helping to keep the kids entertained this summer, Gloucester Quays is offering a variety of free activity sessions in the centre throughout the school holidays.

Kids can let their imaginations run wild at Superhero School; get their hands dirty at a seed planting workshop; or follow the family trail around the centre, for hours of fun. 

Get 70 per cent off back to school essentials

Gloucester Quays offers up to 70 per cent off retail prices on everything from clothing and shoes at M&S, Clarks and Joules to stationary at The Works.

Sports and athleisure brand PUMA opened a brand-new store at Gloucester Quays in June 2023, too, perfect for picking up fresh new PE kits and trainers! 

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