Livingston Designer Outlet
Shopping Center | Livingston | Scotland | United Kingdom
Designer outlet in Scotland
The Livingston Designer Outlet in Livingston, Scotland, is the largest designer outlet in the country and one of the leading shopping destinations between Edinburgh and Glasgow. It opened in October 2000 under the name "McArthurGlen Livingston Designer Outlet," initially owned by the McArthurGlen Group, and is located opposite the popular shopping center "The Centre" in Livingston. The outlet spans approximately 32,000 square meters of retail space and attracts around 6.6 million visitors annually, making it an important regional trade and leisure destination. Over the years, ownership has changed hands multiple times: in 2013, it was sold to LaSalle Investment Management and renamed "Livingston Designer Outlet" before being acquired by Blackstone in 2017. Shortly thereafter, in 2018, Blackstone invested several million pounds into a comprehensive modernization to target a more upscale audience.
Shopping destination between Edinburgh and Glasgow
The outlet features over 80 stores, covering a wide range of brands and products. Visitors can find iconic fashion labels such as Tommy Hilfiger, Calvin Klein, Boss, Lacoste, Fred Perry, and Ted Baker, as well as sports brands like Nike, Adidas, and Under Armour, along with high-street favorites like Marks & Spencer and Next. The concept of the designer outlet is based on discounts of up to 60% off the regular price, often achieved through the sale of off-season merchandise or excess stock, making it particularly attractive to bargain hunters. The selection is complemented by boutiques such as Reiss, Barbour, and Molton Brown, adding a touch of exclusivity to the center. In addition to shopping, there is also a Next Clearance Store and a Lindt Chocolate Shop that complete the offering.
Leisure activities at Livingston outlet
Beyond shopping, the Livingston Designer Outlet is a place for leisure and dining. It houses a Vue cinema with eight digital screens and Paradise Island Adventure Golf, which offers two 18-hole mini-golf courses in a tropical setting—a popular activity for families. The dining area includes over a dozen restaurants and cafes, featuring chains like Pizza Express, Nando's, and Costa Coffee, offering a variety of food from quick snacks to relaxed meals. This combination of shopping, dining, and entertainment makes the outlet a versatile day trip destination.
Modern architecture in designer outlet
The center's architecture is a distinctive feature: the glass roof, designed by architect Don Hisaka, resembles the historic Crystal Palace in London and creates a bright, welcoming atmosphere. A central highlight inside is the water fountain "Birth of the Sky," a sculpture by Japanese artist Sumsumu Shingu, which adds an artistic touch with cascading water and floating clouds. A time capsule was buried under the food court at the opening, marking another historical note. The modernization in 2018 brought new entrances, improved customer areas, and contemporary design of public spaces, enhancing the shopping experience.
Discounts on luxury brands at outlet
The outlet is excellently connected to the transportation network. It is located directly off the M8 motorway, which connects Edinburgh and Glasgow, and offers over 2,500 free parking spaces, including a multi-story parking area. Public transport options like buses serve a dedicated station in front of the center, while Livingston North and Livingston South train stations are a short taxi ride away. This accessibility attracts not only local visitors but also tourists, particularly from China, as the outlet is easily reachable via weekly flights and over 150 cruise ships that dock annually in Edinburgh. Approximately four million people live within a 90-minute drive, highlighting the reach of the center.
The Livingston Designer Outlet also offers practical services such as a "Hands Free Shopping" service, where shoppers can drop off their purchases and later pick them up at guest services or directly from their car—a free service that enhances convenience. For groups arriving by coach, there is a special 10% discount voucher for participating brands. The center is designed to be accessible, with equipped restrooms and the option to borrow wheelchairs or walking aids for free.
