Kenilworth is well known as the factory shopping mecca of Cape Town, and this is thanks to Access Park, which brings Capetonians flocking to get the latest looks at the greatest prices. Access Park describes itself as "the fashion mill" and Seeff takes a look at why it's one of Kenilworth's best-known icons. In the words of one TripAdvisor reviewer, "if you are a bargain hunter, this place is the answer".
The sheer variety on offer
There are more than 110 stores in Access Park, meaning there's something for everyone at a great price. If you're willing to take the time to bargain hunt, you can find jaw-dropping deals on an array of international fashion brands.
Women's, men's and unisex fashion is covered by a wide range of brands like Adidas, Aldo, Cotton On (and Cotton On Kids), Factorie, Levi's, Timberland and Under Armour, amongst many others. If you're looking for your next pair of sneakers or running shoes at a discounted price, then you can pop into the Nike Factory Store, New Balance or Asics.
Don't make the mistake of thinking that Access Park's fashion offering is just for women. Men can find the latest styles and top up their wardrobes at stores like Millennial Man and Grays. The list of tenants also includes some of South Africa's best-loved retailers and brands, including Guess, Mr Price and Pick n Pay Clothing.
Even if you're not remotely interested in clothes shopping, Access Park is worth a visit. You can enjoy a meal at outlets like Mimmos, Pizza Hut or Vida E Caffe, or get the grocery shopping taken care of at Food Lover's Market. You can also spoil yourself with some new linen at low prices, or top up your makeup bag at stores like Estee Lauder or The Cosmetics Company Store.
Access Park rounds off Kenilworth's factory shopping offering with speciality stores like Party City, Evolution Vape and Wildfire Tattoo & Piercing.
A couple of our favourites
With such a wide range of factory shopping outlets to choose from, everyone will have a unique list of favourites. Here are a few that have made the list of top choices for many visitors to Access Park. Hotter Factory Shop sells a range of ladies' and men's shoes built for both attractiveness and comfort. They stock all types of shoes from trendy sandals to boots and other closed shoes, making it a good spot to visit at every time of year.
If you visit Stefano R, you'll quickly understand why this clothing is worn by a long list of business leaders and celebrities. The styles on offer here combine creativity, exclusivity and refinement.
An ever-expanding list of tenants
Even if you've been to Access Park many times before, there's always a reason to go back - to see if any new stores have opened to bring you deals that will make your day. As of June 2022, Access Park is now home to a branch of Solly M Sports, which stocks an array of men's and women's clothing, as well as football team kits, training aids and games.
Three things to know about Access Park before you go
- Since Access Park is a centre where you'll go into each shop straight from the parking lot, you'll need an umbrella if you're going on one of Kenilworth's wet wintry days.
- Trading hours are Monday to Friday from 9 am until 5 pm, Saturdays from 8.30 am until 3.30 pm and Sunday and public holidays from 10 am to 2 pm. Sunday and public holiday trading are optional, so some stores may be closed on these days.
- At the various stores, you can often find savings of up to 50 or 60% off the standard retail price - so even if you're not based in Kenilworth, a trip to Access Park can result in big savings. In a nutshell, if you're looking for gifts, an outfit for a special occasion or something to spoil yourself with, Kenilworth is the suburb to head to.
There are many things to love about living in Kenilworth, and the ability to factory shop to your heart's content is just one of them. The area has much to offer and you can contact Seeff to find out more or to find your new home in Kenilworth.