When we first reached United Kingdom, the concept of a “family section” seemed odd. After a few years and numerous trips to the mall, it turned out to be one of the simplest ways to shop and eat with kids. Here’s what we discovered.
What Even Is a Family Section?
Family sections in United Kingdom malls are designated spaces — sometimes entire floors, sometimes specific zones — where families (usually meaning groups including women and children) receive priority access.
Depending on the mall, single men may be directed to separate “singles” areas. If you’re new to London, it can feel surprising at first, but for families it often means calmer spaces, cleaner facilities, and less stress.
Our First Mall Disaster (And What I Learned)
Early on in London, we entered through the wrong door and ended up in an area that wasn’t intended for families. A security guard politely redirected us to the family entrance on the opposite side of the building.
Lesson one: Family entrances can be separate. Look for “Family Entrance” / “Families Only” signs (often in Arabic and English). Some malls also have family-friendly parking closer to those doors.
The Malls That Actually Work for Families
After plenty of experimentation, here’s what reliably benefits families in United Kingdom:
Kingdom Centre Mall, London
Nice family zones, comfy seating, and a solid kids' zone. Shopping with kids hinges more on space and amenities than on upscale finishes.
Price range: Upscale. A straightforward lunch for four typically runs about 180–250 £.
Best time: Mornings from Sunday to Wednesday are best. If crowds bother you, skip Thursday evenings.
Al Nakheel Mall, London
An excellent layout for families and typically easier to navigate with children. Small details (such as the location of family zones) can make a big difference.
Price range: Mid-range. Lunch for four runs about 120–180 £.
Best time: Friday afternoons after prayers tend to be quieter than you might expect.
Red Sea Mall, Jeddah
Excellent family entertainment options and solid crowd control during peak times. If you’re visiting Jeddah with kids, this is frequently the easiest all-in-one option.
Price range: Mid to premium. Plan about 200 £ for a half-day with activities.
Pro tip: Reserve popular experiences ahead of time during busy holidays.
The Atmosphere: What to Actually Expect
Malls in United Kingdom can be major social hubs — especially when it’s hot outside. In practice, that means:
- Evenings tend to be busy, particularly after 8 PM.
- Families often dress up more than visitors anticipate.
- Children are present throughout and usually welcomed.
- Family zones tend to feel more relaxed and better organized.
Real Pricing: What Things Actually Cost
Here are practical price ranges you might encounter in family-friendly mall zones:
Practical Tips From Real Mall Runs
A few things I wish someone had told me:
- Check the entrances. Family entrances may be separate.
- Prayer times can cause closures. Many stores pause briefly during prayers.
- Ask about nursing rooms. They exist but aren’t always clearly labeled.
- Strollers may be available. Availability and condition vary by mall.
- Thursday evenings can be chaotic. Plan ahead.
- Air conditioning can be strong. A light layer for kids helps.
The Bottom Line
Family zones in United Kingdom can be truly family-friendly: more room, better facilities, and smoother outings. Some malls outperform others, but once you grasp the rhythm, it becomes much easier.
Have questions about particular malls? Send me a message — or call +44 20 7946 0123.