Clarks Village in Street has reported that shoppers are revelling in the return to in-person shopping – as it reveals its most popular post-lockdown purchases.

Walking boots, leisurewear, kitchenware, make-up and "self-care" products such as hand wash, hand cream and skincare have all been bestsellers at the shopping outlet since lockdown restrictions were lifted.

Retailers have reported a surge in leisure purchases for new hobbies, exercise regimes and UK holidays, such as body boards, outdoor shoes and beachwear, while homeware brands have reported a rise in kitchenware sales as people take on lockdown refurbishment projects at home.

Footwear and beauty stores have also seen a spike in sales for shoes, self-care products and make-up.

Chris Davis, centre director at Clarks Village, said: "Shoppers are the heart of Clarks Village and it has been fantastic to see their return and just how excited they are to be back with us.

"Our retailers have seen some really interesting trends post-lockdown, reflecting people's lifestyle changes over the past year – there is a real desire from all guests to experience in-person shopping again and a clear inclination among shoppers to treat themselves, family and friends.

"Childrenswear has also proved popular, with grandparents buying gifts for grandchildren they haven't seen in a while, and 'self-care shopping' such as skincare products has also risen.

"For some, it's the chance to browse and stock up for future events and staycations while others simply want to treat themselves after a difficult year.

"What's clear is that being able to walk around, try on and get a feel for products along with the personalised in-store experience just cannot be matched.

"We look forward to continuing to give shoppers a warm and safe welcome back to Clarks Village across the summer, whether they're shopping for something specific or just want to embrace the experience of shopping once more."

After non-essential retail was closed for over three months during the extended nationwide lockdown, Clarks Village brands have revealed the over-riding sentiment among shoppers is one of excitement mixed with relief at being back – as well as a desperation to shop.

Retailers across the centre say shoppers overwhelmingly seem to know exactly what they want and are enjoying themselves after finally being allowed to return to their favourite brands once more.

Interestingly, Clarks Village brands found shopper habits have evolved during the first few weeks of re-opening.

Several report shoppers are visiting on different days to avoid peak times and are now more likely to spend longer browsing in store, enjoying the experience.

Six new stores have opened at Clarks Village since last summer including clothing company Lazy Jacks, outdoor clothing and equipment retailer Craghoppers, The Perfume Shop and independent Summerhouse Aromatherapy which opened at the end of May.

They join a line-up of more than 90 designer brands and high street names offering discounts of up to 60 per cent covering fashion, leisure, the outdoors, beauty and homeware including Barbour, Superdry, Saltrock, Vans, Dune, Radley, Mountain Warehouse, Le Creuset, Molton Brown and Hotel Chocolat.