Bright and early on Thursday, 19 June, locals flocked to the much-anticipated new Lidl on the Bryansford Road, and it’s easy to see why the excitement has been building. Here’s a proper insider’s peek at the shiny new supermarket:

Prime Location & Parking

Set right next to Donard Park and under the majestic Mournes, the store sits neatly back from the road with leafy landscaping. The car park is impressively spacious, with over 140 spots, including disabled and family spaces, plus charging bays, so no more circling!

Opening Hours

Open daily from 08:00 to 21:00 (Sunday 11:00-19:00) during summer months. Great for early starts or late evening top-ups.

Light, Bright & Roomy

Step inside to a cavernous space with high ceilings, wide aisles, and bright natural light beaming in from glass facades- ideal on this gloriously sunny Grand Opening Day.

Huge Product Selection

From the fresh bakery just inside the door, to local fruit and veg, dairy, chilled meals, and Lidl’s staple food ranges, there’s plenty to fill a full trolley. Don’t forget the “middle aisle” filled with surprise special away-from-food bargains.

Opening Days Fun (first 4 days!)

Kids can grab free balloons, treats and free ice cream! It’s a genuine family atmosphere, think balloons, sticky smiles, happy chatter.

A Power Cut Moment

While I was shopping, there was a short ten second blackout, overhead lights cut out, and everyone stopped and fell silent. Just like Jurrasic Park, anything new is bound to have a few gremlins in the system. Fortunately, the power was quick to come back, and everything resumed. The short blackout reminded me how new and modern the shop is. The Eastward wall has windows at the top running the whole length of the building, which meant it was not even remotely dark, unlike if this had happened in the old windowless location.

Community & Investment

This new store is part of a £6.3m investment, creating 37 permanent jobs and providing land for Mourne Mountain Rescue’s new base. It blends supermarket convenience with genuine community support.

Opening Special Offer

There are many great deals. Spend £50 or more (excluding alcohol) and get £10 off. Perfect to enjoy with all the opening-day treats.

Final Verdict: The new Lidl in Newcastle is fantastic, with plenty of parking, bright and spacious, well-stocked, and full of local charm. It’s set to become a real community hub. If you haven’t visited yet, pop in over the next few days for the freebies, do a full shop, and enjoy a scoop of that complimentary ice cream while the sun shines.