Westwood Cross turns 20 – and you’re invited to the celebrations!

This year marks a major milestone – Westwood Cross is turning 20! Since opening our doors on 9th June 2005, we’ve welcomed brilliant new brands, introduced exciting experiences, and created a vibrant space for the community to shop, dine and spend time together.

From fashion finds to family days out, movie nights to me-time treats, we’ve loved being part of your everyday moments and special occasions.

It all began with a spectacular opening parade that brought the community together – and this June, we’re celebrating 20 incredible years with just as much joy and excitement. Join us and be part of the festivities!

Join the celebration

We’ve got a whole host of birthday surprises lined up, and you’re very much invited. Here are just a few of the ways that we'll be celebrating:

  • In-centre giveaways – Voucher giveaways for lucky shoppers – keep an eye on our socials to see the winners!
  • Local art, local pride – We’re unveiling a brand-new cartoon created by talented local artist, Royston. Plus, the chance to win one of 20 signed limited-edition prints!
  • Live music – From talented buskers to the brilliant Rock Choir, we’re filling the centre with sound throughout June. Don’t miss Rock Choir performing live on Saturday 7th June, 2–3.30pm by the sundial/Viking ship outside Next.

Did you know?

Five facts about your favourite shopping centre

  1. Westwood Cross has hospital roots
    Before we became your go-to for fashion, food and fun, this site was home to Haine Hospital, which closed in 1997. Construction of the centre began only after a 10-metre-deep railway cutting was filled in – an impressive feat in itself!
  2. We helped pioneer open-air shopping in the UK
    Westwood Cross was one of the very first open-air shopping centres in the country. Our fresh-air layout set it apart from the start and helped shape the way we shop today.
  3. A landmark moment in our expansion
    In 2008, we unveiled exciting plans to expand our offering with a casino, cinema, bowling alley and bingo hall. After a thorough approval process – even reaching the House of Lords – the plans were officially given the go-ahead, paving the way for a new era of entertainment and leisure for the community.
  4. There’s a wartime secret beneath your feet
    In 2015, WWI-era tunnels were discovered beneath the Primark car park. These hidden passageways were once used for military training and as air raid shelters for Haine Hospital.
  5. Messages from the past...
    Some of the original curved boundary walls from the old Haine Hospital can still be seen at Westwood Cross today – look out for them around the main car park. If you look closely, you might even spot wartime engravings etched by recovering servicemen, many of whom were airmen from the USA and Canada during both World Wars. These simple carvings offer a touching glimpse into the site's extraordinary past.

More than just a shopping centre

When we launched back in 2005, we were one of the first open-air shopping centres in the UK. Over the years, we’ve grown alongside the local area, bringing you even more to enjoy – from household names like Primark, M&S and TK Maxx to recent additions like Jump Inc, Taco Bell and Hollywood Bowl.

We’ve also been lucky enough to work with some brilliant people – including several team members who’ve been with us since day one. Their dedication, energy and warm welcome have helped shape the friendly, community-focused atmosphere we’re known for today.

Scroll through our image carousel below for a look back at opening day – you might even spot a few familiar faces!

Throwback to 2005

Scroll through our image carousel below for a look back at opening day – you might even spot a few familiar faces!

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    Westwood Cross has always been about more than just great shops and restaurants. It’s been a hub for friendships, first jobs, family outings, and spontaneous moments of joy. Over the years, it’s provided hundreds of jobs for local people and supported dozens of local causes, schools, and charities.

    We’re proud to be part of Thanet’s story – and we’re so thankful to everyone who’s joined us on the journey. Here’s to 20 years of Westwood Cross – and to many more to come. Thanks for being part of our story!

    Keep an eye on our What's On page and follow us on social for all the latest birthday updates.

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