by Alison Shaw | Feb 5, 2026 | News
A bold new chapter for romance readers is coming to the Midlands this Valentine’s Day, as The Spicy Librarian, Europe’s largest dedicated romance bookshop, opens its doors in Leamington Spa.
Created as an unapologetically inclusive, adult-only space for romance lovers, The Spicy Librarian celebrates love stories in all their forms — from swoony contemporary romance and spicy romantasy to darker romance — while placing community, connection and inclusivity at its heart.
At a time when romance and fantasy are among the fastest-growing genres in UK publishing, the shop offers something rarely seen on the high street: a space that doesn’t sideline romance, but puts it centre stage.
“Romance is one of the most-read genres in the world, yet readers are often expected to enjoy it quietly or with embarrassment,” says D, the founder of The Spicy Librarian. “This shop exists to change that. It’s a place where romance readers can feel seen, celebrated and completely at home.”
More than a bookshop
The Spicy Librarian is designed as a social and cultural hub, not just a retail space. Alongside carefully curated shelves, the bookshop features a coffee bar by day and a wine and cocktail bar by night, encouraging visitors to linger, connect and discover new stories together.
The space is strictly 18+, reflecting the adult themes explored in many of the books, and offers a welcoming, inclusive environment that actively celebrates LGBTQIA+ readers, authors and stories.
Regular programming will include:
- A monthly in-store book club
- An indie author subscription book club
- Author signings, previews and launch events
- Themed community nights and reader meet-ups
- A weekly podcast sharing book recommendations and genre deep-dives
Inspired by global trends, rooted in the Midlands
The idea for The Spicy Librarian was sparked after the founder encountered romance-only bookstores while travelling in the US — vibrant, busy spaces that treated romance as something to be proud of rather than hidden away. Returning home, the absence of anything similar in the UK, particularly in the Midlands, felt stark.
Launching in Leamington Spa, the shop aims to draw readers from across the region and beyond, positioning the town as a destination for romance and romantasy fans while contributing to the revival of the high street.
“Independent bookshops are where discovery, risk-taking and community happen,” the founder adds. “This isn’t about competing with big retailers — it’s about offering depth, connection and a space that truly understands its readers.”
A Valentine’s Day launch with purpose
Opening on 14 February 2026, The Spicy Librarian reframes Valentine’s Day as a celebration not just of romantic partners, but of self-love, storytelling and shared joy — a sentiment that resonates strongly with Gen Z and millennial readers who have helped fuel the genre’s resurgence through platforms like BookTok.
As romance continues to dominate reading charts and online conversation, The Spicy Librarian offers a physical space to match that passion — proving that what starts online can thrive on the high street.
Contact Ali Maynard James for any press enquiries press@thespicylibrarian.co.uk
by Alison Shaw | Jan 6, 2026 | News
Brightening January for local diners as Turtle Bay launches winter offers …
January might be known for grey skies and tighter budgets, but Turtle Bay is bringing the joy to January with a line-up of limited-time deals designed to lift spirits without
stretching wallets.
Running from 1st–30th January, Turtle Bay is inviting guests to escape the cold and ease into the new year with great-value menus, generous sharing plates and exclusive app
rewards, all served with Turtle Bay’s signature laid-back island vibes.
To inject a little sunshine into January, Turtle Bay is also treating new app members to a £10 app gift, valid every day throughout January. With no minimum spend and simple
redemption through the app, it’s a little extra sunshine to kick-start the year.
Alongside this, Turtle Bay is offering a two-course £13 Set Menu, available Sunday to Friday, featuring a small plate, a bigger plate and a side from a specially curated menu,
perfect for relaxed lunches or easy midweek dinners. For those dining together, Turtle Bay’s £24 Sharing Set Meal offers a popular sharing menu, ideal for couples or friends
looking to make the most of long, cosy Caribbean evenings.
The January deals sit alongside Turtle Bay’s regular promotions, meaning guests can still enjoy favourites such as Kids Eat Free, and more, making Turtle Bay a go-to
destination for value all month long.
Whether it’s a quick lunch, a relaxed catch-up or a much-needed escape from January gloom, Turtle Bay’s latest offers prove that great food, bold flavours and feel-good
moments don’t need to come with a hefty price tag.
All January deals are available at participating Turtle Bay restaurants nationwide. Terms and conditions apply.
Turtle Bay January
by Alison Shaw | Dec 8, 2025 | News
Join Our Christmassy Trails This December!
Explore our festive trails across town throughout December for your chance to win up to £200 to spend in the New Year!
There are three trails to enjoy—simply pick up your entry form from participating retailers, the Upper Mall in Royal Priors, or the Visitor Information Centre.
Collect ALL the clues to enter the Grand Prize Draw for a chance to win £200 to spend in Leamington Town Centre in the New Year. Or complete any single trail to be entered into a draw to win £50.
Look out for clues displayed in shop windows.
Post your completed entry in Santa’s Postbox in Regent Court.
Competition closes Wednesday 24 December. T’s & C’s apply.
For more information, visit: www.royal-leamington-spa.co.uk
by Alison Shaw | Dec 8, 2025 | News
Hundreds of families welcomed in the festive season at an annual event which saw a dazzling display of lanterns light up Leamington town centre.
Leamington’s 15th annual Lantern Parade saw residents and visitors parade homemade paper lanterns through the town for this year’s sparkling spectacular.
Participants created hundreds of lanterns for this much-loved event including traditional Christmas themed lanterns and this year a lot of fish from nemo, sharks and multi coloured fish to their favourite pets!
The evening featured a host of entertainment including glowing stilt walkers and beautiful angels who led the parade along with Santa and music from David Harrop, the Leamington Baptist Church Choir, and Royal Spa Brass and culminated at the Town Hall with a final appearance from Santa and some carol singing.
Alison Shaw, BID Leamington project manager, said: “We would like to thank everyone who joined us for this year’s Lantern Parade to welcome in the festive season.
“It’s always an incredibly popular event which forms part of people’s Christmas traditions which is wonderful.
“Every year we see some spectacular lanterns made for the occasion, with some truly creative designs which delighted participants and spectators.
“Also, we would like to thank our local businesses who support this event and all our wonderful volunteers who work tirelessly year-on-year to make the event such a success.
“It was also a fantastic opportunity to get people into the town centre, and we would encourage everyone to continue to shop local this Christmas.”
BID Leamington has a number of other festive events coming up, including Festive Fun Trails around town running from 01–24 December and Santa visits on 13 & 14 December in Royal Priors, hosted by Royal Leamington Spa Rotary Club.
For more information, visit www.royal-leamington-spa.co.uk
by Alison Shaw | Nov 25, 2025 | News
A new name in home renovation is coming to Leamington Spa. Mazon Interiors will open its appointment-only showroom this December, creating a space where homeowners can explore complete renovation solutions all in one place.
From kitchens and bathrooms to full property refurbishments, Mazon Interiors manages every part of the process, including design, planning, build, installation, and finishing.
“Our goal is to make home renovation simple,” says Alex Neale, Director at Mazon Interiors. “Whether it is a new kitchen, bathroom, or a full home refurbishment, our clients have one dedicated team to handle everything.”
Our new showroom brings together thoughtfully chosen materials, bespoke joinery, and premium flooring.
Local Drop-In Event: Saturday 6th December, 10AM – 4PM
To mark Small Business Saturday, Mazon Interiors is opening its doors to local residents, businesses, and partners for a relaxed drop-in event. Visitors are invited to explore the new space, meet the team, and learn more about the company’s complete renovation service.
Mazon Interiors. Your home renovation made simple.
Address: 29 Park Street, Leamington Spa, CV32 4QN
Website: www.mazoninteriors.co.uk
Phone Number: 0192 677 0483
Email Address: info@mazoninteriors.co.uk
by Alison Shaw | Oct 8, 2025 | News
Leamington Spa and Warwick to Turn Pink for Cancer Research UK
Royal Leamington Spa and Warwick town centres are set to blossom into a sea of pink from 11 to 19 October as volunteers from Cancer Research UK launch the first-ever Turn the Town Pink campaign.
The vibrant nine-day celebration will bring together local businesses, residents, and visitors in a shared mission to raise life-saving funds, honour those affected by cancer, and shine a light on hope and progress in cancer research.
Similar events across the UK have already raised more than £20,000 this year, and with over 80 Warwickshire retailers signed up, this promises to be one of the biggest yet.
From pink shopfronts to themed events, Turn Leamington Pink! and Turn Warwick Pink! are transforming the towns into living ribbons of support.
Participating retailers are decking out their windows, staff, and displays in pink, offering exclusive promotions, giveaways, and raffles — with many donating a percentage of sales directly to Cancer Research UK.
You’ll spot collection boxes and pink posters across town with the message:
“You Donate. We Discover.”
So wear your brightest pink, snap and share your photos, and be part of the transformation — because together, we are beating cancer.
There’s so much to enjoy in both towns throughout the week — from pink shopfronts and themed displays to special offers, raffles, and community events including
- Craft Fair: 11–12 and 18–19 October at Upper Mall, Royal Priors Shopping Centre
- Bake Sale: 15 October, 2–4pm at Bedford Street Studios
- NVHer Pink Party 15 October, 5-8pm in store Warwick
- The Pink Diner: 20 October at Hart & Co (tickets via campaign team)
- The Pink Whisper Speakeasy: secret 1920s-themed experience below The Terrace (tickets via campaign team)
Be sure to check out the Paint Leamington Pink Trail on the Love Leam App, which highlights more than 50 town centre businesses proudly taking part. Each one has added their own creative touch to the pink transformation — so explore, shop and soak up the community spirit!
There is still time to get involved …
- Follow & share using hashtags #TurnLeamingtonPink and #TurnWarwickPink
- Public: wear pink, visit participating stores, donate via QR codes or collection boxes, and join the Paint Leamington Pink Trail via the Love Leam App
- Share your photos on social media to keep the pink energy flowing!
Deborah Barleggs, Chair of the Leamington & Warwick Cancer Research UK Local Volunteer Committee commented “I’ve been fundraising for Cancer Research UK for over 20 years, inspired by the charity’s invaluable work, by survivors I’m lucky to know, and in memory of loved ones,”
“The enthusiasm from local businesses has been incredible — creative, generous, and ready to say ‘yes’. It’s going to be a fun, inspiring week.”
Stay connected for updates, follow @crukleamandwarwick on Instagram and CRUK Leamington on Facebook, or visit the fundraising page:
fundraise.cancerresearchuk.org/unite/leamington-spa-warwick-local-committee
To learn more about Cancer Research UK’s vital work, visit www.cancerresearchuk.org
Press Enquiries:
For interviews or campaign information, contact: crukleamingtonandwarwick@gmail.com
by Alison Shaw | Aug 20, 2025 | News
Foodies, get ready — the wait is almost over! The Leamington Food and Drink Festival is back at the Pump Room Gardens on Saturday 6 and Sunday 7 September 2025, bringing with it a weekend packed with flavour, fun and festivities.
Now in its 18th year, the much-loved festival is expected to welcome thousands of visitors eager to indulge in the very best food, drink and live entertainment the region has to offer — and the best part? It’s completely free to attend.
With around 120 exhibitors, festival-goers can expect everything from sizzling street food and artisan delights to tempting treats from many of Leamington’s favourite local businesses.
This year’s Live Cookery Theatre, sponsored by Davison’s Law, is set to be a showstopper. Newcomers Rosa’s Thai, Good Food Cartel and The House will bring fresh flavours to the stage, while festival favourites including Bia’s Kitchen, Sophie Hyam and the talented team from Aubrey Allen return to wow the crowds with mouth-watering demos.
Gary Davison, Managing Director of Davison’s Law, said:
“We’re delighted to support the Leamington Food Festival this year. At Davison’s Law, we believe in being part of the communities we serve, not just professionally but personally too. This festival is a fantastic celebration of local flavour, talent and togetherness — and we’re proud to help make it happen.”
For budding chefs, the Kids Make and Bake Cookery School, run by the award-winning Get Cooking, will provide hands-on fun, alongside free face-painting (Saturday only, ages 3+) and entertainment from the ever-popular stilt-walker Arron.
Adding to the vibrant festival atmosphere, the bandstand will be alive with music all weekend. Saturday’s line-up features Reign the Girl Band, The Session and Sweet Mischief, while Sunday welcomes Big Sing Choir, Two Piece Blues and Man Made Moon. Much-loved performers including Room 17, Abi Rowberry, Sam Lawrence and Nicole will also make a welcome return.
Alison Shaw, BID Leamington Project Manager, said:
“We are extremely excited to announce this year’s line-up at the Leamington Food and Drink Festival. It’s become a real highlight of the calendar, not just in Leamington but nationally too, and is now regarded as one of the UK’s most exciting food festivals. This community-focused weekend attracts thousands of people and showcases the incredible food and drink scene here in Leamington, alongside brilliant businesses from across the region.”
The Leamington Food and Drink Festival promises two days of flavour, music and family-friendly fun — the perfect recipe for a weekend to remember.
For the full programme and latest updates, visit: www.leamingtonfoodfestival.co.uk
by Alison Shaw | Mar 10, 2025 | News
Celebrate Leamington’s Best Independent Businesses with the Muddy Stilettos Awards 2025
Support your favourite Leamington Town Centre independent businesses by nominating them for the prestigious Muddy Stilettos Awards 2025!
Now in their 12th year, the Muddy Awards are the UK’s biggest and brightest celebration of small, independent businesses. With over 11 million people engaged, these awards offer a fantastic platform to spotlight the hard work and dedication of our incredible local entrepreneurs.
This year introduces four exciting new categories: Best Family Experience, Women’s Style, Sports & Fitness Instructor, and Wellbeing Specialist – adding to the existing 21 lifestyle categories that honour the best of local businesses.
The power is in your hands! Show your support by nominating your favourite Leamington Town Centre independents – it’s quick, easy, and your vote could make a huge difference. Plus, by taking part, you’ll also be entered into a draw to win a £1,000 spending spree at Next!
Visit the Muddy Awards website today to cast your nomination and help celebrate the best of Leamington’s independent business scene. Muddy Awards 2025 | Muddy Stilettos Nominations close 13 March
by Alison Shaw | Mar 10, 2025 | News
Geiko Hair Salon, a staple of the Leamington Spa community for nearly 24 years, has been crowned a winner at the prestigious Englands Business Awards at the Grand Final in Birmingham on 21 November 2024. This national recognition follows the salon’s triumph in the regional Warwickshire Awards earlier in 2024.
The award is a testament to Geiko’s unwavering commitment to excellence in hairdressing, customer service, and innovation in the beauty industry. Led by owner Paula McIntosh, the salon has built a stellar reputation for providing exceptional hairstyling and a welcoming, luxury experience for its loyal clientele.
Paula McIntosh, the passionate entrepreneur behind Geiko’s, expressed her excitement about the achievement. “Winning this award is an incredible honour and a reflection of the hard work, talent, and dedication of our entire team. We are immensely grateful to our loyal clients who have supported us over the years, and we look forward to continuing to provide the highest standards of service.””
The Englands Business Awards are renowned for celebrating outstanding businesses that demonstrate excellence, innovation, and customer satisfaction across various industries. Geiko’s latest accolade reinforces its standing as one of the leading salons not just in Leamington Spa but in the country.
As the salon celebrates this significant milestone, the team at Geiko remains committed to evolving with the latest trends and techniques, ensuring clients receive the very best in hairdressing services.
For more information, visit Geiko’s website www.geiko.co.uk
by Alison Shaw | Feb 25, 2025 | News
Local, award winning florist Sarah Horne Botanicals has made it to the final of the awards after impressing judges with their approach to driving growth through sustainability.
Sarah Horne Botanicals of 86 Warwick Street Leamington Spa has been selected as a finalist for the first-ever ‘Green Growth Awards’, a new national competition recognising small businesses leading the way in embracing sustainability to innovate and drive business growth.
Launched by Small Business Britain, in partnership with BT, the inaugural Green Growth Awards will award two sustainability grants of £5000 to two small businesses that have successfully boosted their bottom line by implementing sustainable initiatives. The grants will help provide additional funding for businesses to invest further in this area.
Sarah Horne Botanicals, founded in 1980 by Sarah Horne with her late mum Jenny, has made it to the final round of the awards after impressing judges with their commitment to green growth…quite literally!
The journey that the team has embarked on includes dramatically reducing their carbon footprint by growing as much of their fresh flower and foliage stock as possible in “cutting gardens” located less than a mile from the shop in Leamington Spa. This allows them to offer their customers super fresh locally grown flowers and exciting new floral design classes. They are growing the usual favourites as well as beautiful, rare niche varieties not normally available at retail. The cutting garden project has also led to them composting all of their green and cardboard waste.
On being named as a finalist, Sarah said: “The team and I are so excited by this project, we have worked really hard to test and establish our cutting gardens. Amy and I can often be seen walking down Warwick Street sporting wellies and waterproofs! We couldn’t be more thrilled to have reached the finals of these prestigious awards”.
“The Green Growth Awards recognise the outstanding small businesses that are not only leading the way in sustainability but are also using it to fuel innovation and growth,” says Michelle Ovens CBE, Founder of Small Business Britain.
“These businesses are proving that greener practices not only benefit the planet but also create real business success—whether through cost savings, waste reduction, or deeper customer engagement. Their passion and commitment are making a real impact on their communities and the economy.”
The nation’s 5.5m small businesses are estimated to represent half of the UK’s business emissions and the Green Growth Awards has been launched as part of Small Business Britain’s ongoing partnership with BT to empower UK small businesses to better understand their environmental impact and embrace more sustainable practices and growth opportunities.
“The Green Growth Awards shine a spotlight on the small businesses that are not only driving sustainability but also setting the standard for innovation and growth,” said Chris Sims, Chief Commercial Officer, UK Business, at BT.
“It’s truly inspiring to see how these businesses are leveraging sustainable practices to achieve real business success and create positive change in their communities. We’re really proud to support this initiative.”
BT is also a member of the Willow Review Steering Board; a new independent review aiming to underline the financial case for sustainability for small businesses, which has been spearheaded by Small Business Britain and is backed by the UK Government.
The winners of the Green Growth Awards will be announced at a special event at BT’s Headquarters in London on 11 March 2025.
