Clarks still has a slightly fuddy-duddy image in many people's minds, and to be honest, it's not the first place I'd come to for anything fashionable (though the women's section has more to choose from - not that I'm an expert there...).
But for sensible, simple black shoes for work, as well as comfy and well-made sandals for the summer, it's still pretty foolproof. My partner shops here every year for the same thing (and indeed has switched allegiance from Doc Martens since the quality of the latter went downhill). There have always been a fair number of families with children here, too, so its reputation for catering to that market still seems to be holding good.
The store here is in the Churchill Shopping Centre, on the atrium leading up to Debenhams. They have some good sales in the New Year and also during the summer, which is especially good for winter shoes. The staff have always seemed very helpful, and knowledgeable about the stock, too, and they help fit your shoes if you want to - an incredible rarity, these days. read more