Shopping what's it like now

[CarlaH]

My partner wants to go into our nearest city next week to go to Marks and Spencer for underwear/socks so no need to try anything on and I would like to go into John Lewis homewares department.

Is it still all queuing and one way systems or have things calmed down a bit.

We haven't been anywhere except a supermarket since last spring so have no idea what to expect.

yeah if you haven't been out for weeks, why choose somewhere that is highest risk for being crowded (very popular stores).

@Katie517

Without sounding harsh I think you just need to get out and start living normally again. Yes you will have to wear a mask but aside from that it’s pretty much normal, Oxford is my closest city centre and there are no one way systems in shops or ques especially in the week. I have been a lot since the shops reopened and always had an enjoyable time. I think the more you talk about it and wonder what it’s going to be like the more you will put yourself off going, just go see for yourself and maybe have a nice lunch or coffee out while you are there to make the most of the trip.

This. Just crack on and go.

I've been out shopping in the big wide world throughout the pandemic. Yes, you have to wear a mask. But the more you do it, the more used to it you become. Every shop has different rules about queues and one way systems. But generally, its like it always was.

I'd avoid half terms and weekends and the period just before school pick up tends to be quite quiet. You could give it a go and see, I imagine homewares will be fairly quiet.

It will be quieter than most supermarkets I'd imagine. Avoid Primary as that's always busy