EV Charging Points Near Milton Keynes Shopping Centre

If you are planning a shopping trip in Milton Keynes and drive an electric vehicle (EV) it helps to know where you can charge while you shop. This article offers a deep-dive look at the key charging locations near major shopping malls in Milton Keynes. We cover connector types, pricing, parking rules, how to plan your stop, and how to combine charging with your retail visit in a convenient, cost-effective way.

Why charging during a shopping trip makes sense

When you visit a shopping centre for a few hours you may have sufficient time to top up your EV battery while you browse, dine or catch a movie. The advantage is you arrive with more range without needing to plan a dedicated charging stop. In Milton Keynes especially, where the road-network and retail provision are well-connected, this can be a smart strategy. It reduces the chance of needing to use high-cost or out-of-the-way rapid chargers just to finish your trip home. By treating your shopping centre visit as an opportunity for charging you can combine convenience and practicality.

Key EV charging locations near shopping centres in Milton Keynes

Here are three top locations visited by EV drivers near major retail destinations in the city.

Centre:MK Multi-Storey Car Park (Silbury Arcade, MK9 3EP)

This central shopping mall offers a large multi-storey car park with dedicated EV charging bays. These are operated under the network of a major provider. The presence of multiple charging points in the “Smart Tech” car park behind John Lewis means you can park, plug-in and shop without having to detour to a separate location. Parking fees apply, but you are charged for parking separately from the charging session. It is worth noting that not all bays may be rapid chargers so for a full top-up you may best choose a longer stay. Since the mall comprises over 150 stores it suits a couple of hours of shopping or dining while your EV charges.

Egerton Gate Shopping Centre (50 Egerton Gate, MK5 7HH)

At Egerton Gate there is a high-power charging station that supports fast charging up to around 150 kW in a location immediately adjacent to the shopping centre. If your EV supports rapid charging this is a good option for a shorter time window visit. Because of the higher power output the connector types include DC CCS and CHAdeMO (or at least those typical of rapid stations) meaning you can add perhaps 100 miles or more in 30 minutes depending on your vehicle. After plugging in you can walk into the shopping centre for refreshments and come back to a top-up that helps with your return journey or onward travel.

MK1 Leisure Park (Stadium Way, MK1 1ST)

Although a leisure park rather than a pure shopping mall, MK1 provides a convenient stop for EV charging while you dine, shop or watch a film. The Pod Point units here are lower power (for example 7 kW Type 2) so they are ideal if you are staying for a longer period rather than needing a rapid top-up. If you combine your visit with a couple of hours of activity the lower-power charger suffices and may be less in demand than rapid bays. The location is well-lit, accessible and provides walkable access to food, coffee and retail outlets.

Understanding connector types, power and costs

Charging points differ in power output and connector type and these factors determine how long you will need to stay and how much you will pay. At the rapid station at Egerton Gate you will find up to around 150 kW output meaning you can add perhaps 60-80 miles in 10-15 minutes depending on your car’s acceptance rate. Lower power units such as 7 kW Type 2 will add perhaps 20-30 miles in an hour. Costs at rapid chargers are generally higher per kilowatt-hour than slow or fast chargers. For example some rapid stations in the Milton Keynes area charge around £0.84 per kWh. It is therefore wise to ensure you are parked long enough to justify the higher rate or to use slower chargers if you have a longer stay planned. It is equally important to check whether the charger works with your car’s connector type and if there are any additional parking charges or stay limits.

Parking rules and stay limits near shopping centres

When using a shopping-centre charging bay you must consider both parking rules and charging station rules. At the Centre:MK car park you still need to pay for the parking session even if you are charging. Some bays may carry special stay limits or be reserved for “while charging only”. If you exceed the allowed stay time you risk fines or extra charges. At Egerton Gate and MK1 you should check onsite signage to confirm the maximum stay and whether the parking tariff is separate from the charging tariff. Also ensure you are plugged in; some EV bays are designated for charging only and if you park without charging the space may not be valid for EV use. Planning your shopping visit with a buffer helps avoid rushing or over-staying.

How to choose which charger to use while shopping

If you are visiting a shopping centre for a short stop of say 30-60 minutes a rapid charger at Egerton Gate offers the fastest top-up. This is ideal if you still have a meaningful journey afterwards and need more range. If you plan a longer stay such as a meal, film and shopping for two or more hours then a slower charger at MK1 or in the Centre:MK car park offers a less expensive option and may suit your needs perfectly. It is often wise to check availability in advance via an app and choose a location with multiple bays to reduce delay risk. Also factor in walking distance from your parking bay to the shops; you may prefer a bay that is a little further away but quieter and less likely to be occupied.

Common issues and how to avoid them

One common frustration is arriving at a charging bay only to find it is already occupied or out of service. This can be mitigated by checking live status via a charger-network app. Another issue is arriving at a rapid charger that your vehicle cannot use because of connector incompatibility. Always verify that your car supports the connector type offered (for example CCS/DC vs Type 2). Overstaying in a charging bay while your car is fully charged may result in a parking charge or the station enforcing an overstay penalty. It is good etiquette to move your car once charging is complete. Also do not assume that parking is free just because you are charging: always check the signs and pay the appropriate parking tariff.

Frequently asked questions

Does charging while shopping cost more than home charging?

Yes it usually does. Public charging rates are higher than home overnight rates. The convenience of charging while shopping comes at a higher per kilowatt-hour cost but for many drivers the benefit of added range without an extra stop is worth it.

Can I park in a charging bay even if I am not plugged in?

No. Most charging bays are reserved for EVs that are actively charging. Parking without connecting your vehicle may result in a fine or being asked to move.

What happens if the charger is out of service?

Have a backup location in mind. Many apps will show live status and you should choose a nearby alternative within walking or driving distance so your shopping trip isn’t disrupted.

Do I need a network membership to use the charger?

Some networks require registration or membership while others allow contactless payment. It is wise to check ahead for the network at your chosen location.

How long should I stay while shopping for charging?

Align your visit length to the charger power. For a rapid charger you may only need 15-30 minutes. For slower chargers budget 60-120 minutes or more if you plan a full shopping and dining visit.

Conclusion: Making the most of charging while you shop

Charging your EV during a shopping centre visit in Milton Keynes is a savvy way to combine everyday errands with practical refuelling. By choosing the right location, understanding connector types, matching your car’s needs and aligning your stay with the tariff, you can make this a routine part of your EV life. Locations such as Centre:MK, Egerton Gate and MK1 provide strong options, each suited to different visit lengths and charging goals. Keep your phone’s charger-status app ready, plan ahead for parking fees and stay limits, and aim to plug in early to maximise convenience. With the right approach charging while you shop becomes a hassle-free part of your journey rather than an afterthought.