It’s October already… how did that happen? Halloween is fast approaching and before we know it, Father Christmas will be embarking on his treacherous journey from the North Pole. But before the big man arrives, we’ve got the joy of Black Friday to help make his life easier.
The annual phenomenon is sure to be highly anticipated by savvy shoppers around the globe – but before you delve into the pandemonium, it’s important to be as prepared as possible. It’s worth researching what’s likely to be going on sale beforehand – this way, it’s easy to see whether you are saving or not.
If you’re really planning to get into Black Friday this year, or are simply looking for an excuse for a weekend break… turn the event into a mini-break! Black Friday falls on the 29th of November this year, so a short getaway can make for the perfect start for the countdown to Christmas.
London
With over 300 stores, Oxford Street is already something of a premium shopping destination, and even more so on Black Friday. Selfridges is sure to be involved – indeed, it has already called its own holiday promotion this year ‘Christmas Comes Early’. Last year, customers of the fabled department store were able to enjoy 10% off beauty and fragrance and 20% off gifts.
The likes of John Lewis are sure to have similar deals, and both Argos and Currys are set to offer fantastic savings on TVs and computers. Zara also offers attractive deals – recent years have seen 30% off everything in-store.
So after you’ve spent Friday trawling the high street, you can spend the rest of the weekend sight-seeing. Take in the London Eye, visit Buckingham Palace for a taste of royalty and head to Hyde Park Winter Wonderland for a wonderful element of festivity. There some amazing hotels in Shepherds Bush, a mere 30-minute journey from Oxford Street by car or public transport.
Manchester
Much like London, Manchester has some awesome Christmas markets to visit. The original Christmas market of the UK has everything you could dream of; candy canes, ice rinks, mulled wine, apple cider, Santa Claus… you name it. With both the Trafford Centre and Arndale on offer, there’s plenty of Black Friday savings to be had.
The likes of Boots tend to have huge savings on electrical goods and make-up gift sets at this time of year, while TK Maxx offers tempting discounts of its own on designer goods such as shoes, coats and handbags.
Pick up your Christmas shopping, or even treat yourself before spending the rest of the weekend getting all festive. Or why not visit the National Football Museum or even tour the Coronation Street set?
Edinburgh
The Edinburgh Christmas markets are perhaps the most scenic of them all. A flying Santa is set to be brought to the Royal Mile, with over 20 new stalls, including a silent disco. Princess Street is one of the best shopping destinations in the UK, and arguably the most attractive in Scotland. As well as the well-known high-street names, Edinburgh makes for a wonderfully independent shopping scene.
With the likes of genuine Scotch whiskey and authentic tartan to be picked up, you can enjoy some excellent savings on traditional Scottish gifts. And once you’ve been shopping, you can visit the famous Edinburgh Castle, make your way up to Arthur’s Seat, or if you’re brave enough, tour the gruesome Edinburgh Dungeon.
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