12 Things you didn't know about Clarks Village

Ahead of its historic 30^th anniversary milestone this month, Clarks Village has released 12 impressive facts around the iconic shopping destination.

The opening on 14th August 1993, put Somerset on the UK retail map, as outlet shopping was unveiled to British shoppers for the very first time. Since then, the popular retail and leisure destination has become a key part of the region since it opened its doors in spectacular style.

Here are 12 things you probably didn’t know about Clarks Village:

1.  50,000 guests attended the opening of Clarks Village on Saturday 14^th August 1993. 

2.  The Outlet was built in 22 weeks at a cost of £3m and created more than 300 jobs in the local community – it now employs over 900 staff.

3.  The Cadbury store has been at Clarks Village since its opening three decades ago.

4.  There is currently 200,000 sq ft of retail space, which is the equivalent of 3.5 football fields, sitting on 24 acres of land. 

5.     Clarks Village holds unique historical significance, being situated on the site of the very first factory of the iconic Clarks shoe – a reminder of which can be seen in the red brick chimney overlooking the outlet today.

6.  As quarrying declined in Street in the early 20^th Century, the old pits were planted with fruit orchards. Clarks Village pays homage to this history in the names of its districts; Apple Court, Pear Court and Orchard Square.

7.  The oak tree in the central gardens has been standing tall for over 130 years.

8. Sustainability is at the heart of Clarks Village; it is powered by renewable energy, no waste is sent to landfill, and it even recycles its coffee grounds into compost for its landscaped gardens.

9.  Clarks Village is open for over 3,500 hours a year

10.  Of all the 90 designer and high street brands, the outlet is still home to the largest Clarks shoe shop in the world.

11.  Brian Chorley, 85, has become an icon at Clarks Village having worked on the same site for 70 years. He originally worked at the C&J Clark shoe factory from 1953, and today is a valued member of the guest services team at Clarks Village which stands on the same spot.

12.  Boasting a dog friendly environment, Clarks Village welcomes thousands of dogs to the outlet each year and even has its own pet mascot. Bailey the Whippet was crowned ‘Top Dog’ of Clarks Village in its Pawsome Pooch competition last year.

To celebrate its milestone 30th anniversary, Clarks Village will be hosting a three-day street party across its outdoor malls and gardens between Saturday, August 12th, and Monday, August 14th.

The free celebrations include street entertainment, family games and craft activities, festival glitter face painting. Hampers of picnic blankets will be available to guests to soak up the atmosphere within the iconic Central Square Gardens at Clarks Village which will be visited by live musicians.

Meanwhile, an anniversary artisan market will see up to 25 independent stalls join the outlet, showcasing the best produce and locally made goods from Somerset and the South West. Additional anniversary activities include a dressed crafts area, giant birthday cupcake, swing seat and branded floral wall – all decorating Clarks Village in style for the occasion while offering guests beautiful backdrops for photographs and selfies.

For more information about the anniversary weekend plans at Clarks Village, visit https://clarksvillage.co.uk/30th-birthday

Clark's Village is committed to having the very best guest services team and to be as inclusive as possible. Staff across the site receive training in how to help with various disabilities and there are numerous facilities available for visitors to help make every trip enjoyable. The site has quiet spaces, quiet shopping hours, sensory aids and disabled access throughout, as well as a free shopmobility service.