by Alison Shaw | Oct 8, 2026 | Blogs
A spooktacular Halloween treasure hunt is set to return to Leamington town centre with lots of fabulous prizes valued at over £1,000 to be won!
BID Leamington’s annual ‘Pumpkin Path’ will see participants hunt for clues in the windows of shops, cafes, and restaurants across the town centre between Saturday, October 24 and Sunday, November 1 for the chance to win a host of prizes generously donated by Leamington businesses.
This year’s frightfully fun family event will feature three trails, with participants tasked with finding an orange pumpkin in each shop window containing a letter clue. Once the trail is completed, the letters will reveal the location of the ‘Giant Pumpkin Stack’, where entry forms can be posted.
Families who gather at least 10 clues will be entered into the prize draw, while those who collect all the clues will be entered into the grand prize draw for a chance to win £150 worth of treats.
Entry forms are available to download HERE and can also be found at participating businesses as well as the Halloween stand on the upper mall of Royal Priors Shopping Centre.
Alison Shaw, Project Manager at BID Leamington, said:
“The Pumpkin Path is now in its eleventh year and remains a fantastic annual event enjoyed by hundreds of families. It’s a wonderful opportunity to get into the Halloween spirit while rediscovering town centre’s businesses, or even finding some new favourites. The event is always very well supported by our local businesses, and we are thrilled to be offering some incredible prizes valued at over £1,000. We hope everyone has fun taking part in this year’s event, gathering the clues to find the location of our Pumpkin Stack post box!”
The competition will close on Sunday, November 1 at 4.30pm. Entries can also be posted to BID Leamington, 35c Park Court, Park Street, Leamington, CV32 4QN, with the closing date for postal entries being Wednesday, November 4.
by Alison Shaw | Sep 23, 2026 | News
2nd – 11th October 2026 | Leamington Spa & Warwick
Leamington Spa and Warwick are turning PINK this October as local businesses, residents and visitors come together to raise vital funds for Cancer Research UK.
Taking place from Friday 2nd to Sunday 11th October 2026, Turn the Town Pink! will see businesses across both town centres hosting special events, fundraising activities, exclusive promotions and live entertainment to support the charity’s life-saving research.
From live music and fitness challenges to shopping experiences, food workshops and special evenings out, there are plenty of opportunities to get involved while supporting your favourite local businesses.
Whether you’re planning a day out with friends, looking for something different to do with the family or simply enjoying everything Leamington Spa has to offer, why not wear something pink and help make a difference?
What’s Happening in Leamington Spa?
Throughout the ten-day event, a fantastic selection of local businesses will be hosting special activities and fundraising events.
Live Music at Royal Priors Shopping Centre
Enjoy live performances from talented local musicians and singers at Royal Priors Shopping Centre on Saturday 3rd and Saturday 10th October, from 10am to 2.30pm.
Taking place on the Upper Mall, these free acoustic performances will provide the perfect soundtrack to your shopping experience. Charity donations are welcome.
Turn the Town Pink! Challenge at Megabox Fitness
Get active for a great cause with the Turn the Town Pink! Challenge at Megabox Fitness, taking place on Friday 2nd, Saturday 3rd and Monday 5th to Wednesday 7th October.
Whether you prefer working out individually or as part of a team, everyone is welcome to participate, with no gym membership required.
Find out more and book your place at www.megaboxfitness.com/turn-leamington-pink.
Pink Auberge Night at Oscars
Enjoy a special evening of delicious French food at Oscars in Leamington Spa on Tuesday 6th October from 7pm.
The restaurant will be hosting a Pink Auberge Night, providing a wonderful opportunity to enjoy an evening out while supporting the fundraising campaign. To book a table, call 01926 452807.
Summer Roll Workshop at Rosa’s Thai
Discover how to create delicious fresh summer rolls at Rosa’s Thai on Wednesday 7th October, from 12.30pm to 1.30pm.
This special workshop is a fantastic opportunity to learn a new culinary skill while supporting Cancer Research UK. Tickets cost £20 per person, and places can be booked by emailing leamingtonspa@rosasthai.com.
Live Classical Music at Presto Music
Join Simon Ballard and Barbara O’Reilly at Presto Music on Regent Grove on Wednesday 7th October, from 6.30pm to 7.30pm, for a special live performance of Beethoven’s Sonata in E Flat, Opus 12 No. 3.
This free event welcomes charity donations on the night. Visitors wearing pink can also enjoy 10% off CDs.
Book your free place at www.prestomusic.com/shop/events.
Cocktail Masterclass at Hart & Co
Learn how to create three delicious pink cocktails at Hart & Co on Friday 9th October at 7.30pm.
During this special masterclass, you’ll discover how to mix a pink mojito, a French martini and a pink paloma. Tickets cost £40 per person.
Book your place at www.tickettailor.com/events/hartco/2214653.
An Evening in the Secret Garden at 1 Mill Street
Enjoy an unforgettable evening in a bespoke indoor garden at 1 Mill Street on Saturday 10th October, from 6.30pm to 10.30pm.
Your ticket includes a welcome drink and ample grazing food, alongside live music from The Twin Flames and mysterious magic from Angus Baskerville.
Tickets cost £35 per person. To book, email crukleamingtonandwarwick@gmail.com.
Turn the Town Pink! Live Lounge at Style Architects
Celebrate the final day of Turn the Town Pink! with an afternoon of live country music at Style Architects on Regent Street on Sunday 11th October, from 2pm to 6pm.
Wear a little pink or your favourite cowgirl and cowboy accessories and enjoy an afternoon of great music, drinks and good company.
This free event is the perfect way to bring the fundraising campaign to a close.
Shopping, Special Promotions and Fundraising Activities
Turn the Town Pink! is also a fantastic opportunity to explore Leamington Spa’s independent businesses and high street favourites.
Throughout the event, participating businesses will be supporting Cancer Research UK through special promotions, fundraising activities and exclusive products.
Look out for special bakes at Corner Cottage Bakery, pink cocktails at Giggling Squid and Pug Pubs, limited-edition pink Leamington tote bags at Store & Studio and Turn the Town Pink! T-shirts at Megabox Fitness.
You can also have a go at guessing the name of the pink teddy at Grape Tree or how many pink bricks are in the jar at Bricks N Pieces.
Many more local businesses will also be getting involved throughout the ten-day event.
Participating Leamington Businesses
Show your support by visiting the fantastic businesses taking part in Turn the Town Pink! 2026.
Participating businesses include Applause, Aubrey Allen, Brickspieces, Creative Curtains & Interiors, Corner Cottage Bakery, Cotswold Trading, Fizzy Moon, Gamefinity, Giggling Squid, Grape Tree, Greys Opticians, Grounded Kitchen, Hart & Co, Luenar Yoga, Mandy May Aesthetics, Mazon Interiors, Megabox Fitness, Oscars, Park Street Chiropractic Clinic, Presto Music, Pug Pubs, Rosa’s Thai, Skechers, Store & Studio, Style Architects, The Spa Centre, Western Furnishings and 1 Mill Street.
By supporting these businesses during the event, you’ll be helping to raise awareness of the campaign while celebrating the wonderful variety of shops, restaurants and services available in Leamington Spa.
Visit the Makers Market at Royal Priors
Head to the Upper Mall at Royal Priors Shopping Centre on Saturday 3rd and Sunday 4th October, from 10am to 4pm, and explore a special Makers Market featuring talented local artisans.
Browse a wonderful selection of handmade products, including cakes, jewellery, knitted items and beauty products.
It’s a great opportunity to discover something unique, support independent makers and enjoy a little shopping while visiting the town centre.
Visit the Cancer Research UK Charity Stall
Throughout the event, from Friday 2nd to Sunday 11th October, Cancer Research UK will have a dedicated charity stall on the Upper Mall at Royal Priors Shopping Centre, open daily from 10am to 3pm.
Visitors can browse charity merchandise and cards, make a donation and find out more about the fundraising activities taking place across Leamington.
You can also enter the Turn the Town Pink! Grand Prize Draw for the chance to win cash prizes of £250, £150 and £100. Tickets are available for a £1 donation, with prizes provided by Mackenzie Miller Homes.
Get Involved and Help Turn the Town Pink!
Whether you’re visiting Leamington Spa for the day, enjoying a meal at your favourite restaurant, shopping with friends or taking part in one of the special events, there are plenty of ways to support Turn the Town Pink! 2026.
Wear something pink, explore the participating businesses, make a donation or simply help spread the word about this fantastic community fundraising campaign.
Every contribution helps support Cancer Research UK‘s work to prevent, diagnose and treat cancer.
Let’s come together, support our local businesses and turn Leamington Spa PINK!
Find Out More
For the latest information, event updates and details of how to get involved, follow the Cancer Research UK Leamington and Warwick fundraising team on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CRUKLeamington or Instagram at @crukleamandwarwick.
For further information, you can also contact the organisers by emailing crukleamingtonandwarwick@gmail.com.
by Alison Shaw | Sep 9, 2026 | News
The countdown is on with just a few days to go until the much-loved Leamington Food and Drink Festival returns to the picturesque Pump Room Gardens on Saturday 12 and Sunday 13 September 2026.
Now in its 19th year, the FREE to attend festival, organised by BID Leamington, has become one of the town’s flagship events and will feature around 120 exhibitors, including many of Leamington’s independent businesses, showcasing the very best in local and regional food and drink.
The ever-popular Live Cookery Theatre returns with demonstrations from talented local chefs, who will share recipes, tips and culinary inspiration throughout the weekend. Festival favourites Aubrey Allen, Bia’s Kitchen Show and Sophie Hyam will be joined by Darren Gurry, a quarter-finalist on MasterChef 2025, and the team from Rosa’s Thai.
Young foodies can enjoy the interactive Kids Make and Bake Cookery School, hosted by the award-winning Get Cooking Cookery School, giving budding chefs the chance to learn new skills while having fun.
Live entertainment will keep visitors entertained across both days from the Bandstand stage, kindly sponsored by Thomas Flavell & Sons Solicitors. The line-up includes Abigail O’Meara, Easy 3, Cartoon Tears, All Night Long, Papillon Jazz, Electric Ian, and Room 17. On Sunday visitors will also hear from And The Sunset fronted by local singer Amelia Webster who is shortly releasing a new album. Visitors are encouraged to check the festival website for the full entertainment schedule.
Jamie Connolly, Managing Director of Thomas Flavell & Sons Solicitors, said: “We’re proud to support this year’s festival and its fantastic live music programme. It’s a wonderful community event that showcases the very best of our local businesses, producers and performers, and we’re delighted to help make another memorable weekend possible.”
Alison Shaw, Project Manager at BID Leamington, said: “We can’t wait to welcome visitors back for another fantastic festival. It’s a celebration of everything that makes Leamington’s food and drink scene so special, bringing together local businesses, talented chefs and producers from across the region for a fun-filled weekend. Please come and enjoy the fun.”
With just a few days to go, organisers are encouraging food lovers to join them for a weekend of local flavours, live music and family fun. The support of local people and visitors from further afraid is hugely valued and they can’t wait to welcome you. The festival runs from 10am – 6pm each day in the Pump Room Gardens, Leamington Spa.
For more information and festival updates, visit www.leamingtonfoodfestival.co.uk.
by Alison Shaw | Aug 3, 2026 | News
Leamington Spa is gearing up for a spectacular weekend of free events, family fun and world-class entertainment, with two major events bringing colour, energy into the town. On Saturday 22 August, Warwickshire Pride takes over the town and Pump Room Gardens, followed on Sunday 23 August by the final stage of the Lloyds Tour of Britain Women, which both starts and finishes in Leamington. Whether you’re looking for things to do with the family, want to soak up the atmosphere or simply fancy making a day of it in town, there’s plenty to enjoy.
Both events involve temporary road closures, so give yourself a bit more time – especially if you have a booking or reservation. Plan to park in one of the town’s main off-street car parks – of which there are many (Royal Priors, Covent Gardens, St Peters Multi-storey, Chandos St, Court St, Bath St).
🌈 Saturday: Warwickshire Pride
Warwickshire Pride returns to Leamington on Saturday 22 August, with the celebrations taking place from 11am–6pm at the Pump Room Gardens. The event is free and family-friendly.
The day gets underway with the colourful Pride March through Leamington town centre, before the celebrations continue at the Pump Room Gardens. The route goes from Beauchamp Road at 11:00am – Clarendon Avenue – the Parade – Dormer Place – ending at the Pump Room Gardens where the Warwickshire Pride festival takes place.
Highlights – what you can see and do
- 🌈 Join or watch the Pride March as it makes its way through the heart of Leamington
- 🎤 Enjoy live performances and entertainment on stage throughout the day
- 🛍️ Explore the Rainbow Marketplace, with stalls from businesses, organisations and community groups
- 🎡 Have fun at the fairground
- 🐶 Watch the Pride Dog Show (11.30 am registration, with the show taking place at 1.30 pm)
- 🍔 Enjoy food and drink from around the world
- 🎨 Discover community activities, workshops and wellbeing spaces
- 🏳️🌈 Explore dedicated spaces celebrating different communities, including young people, women, trans and bi communities
- 👨👩👧👦 Enjoy a family-friendly day out with plenty to see and do for all ages
Visit their website where you can download the programme here: warwickshirepride.co.uk/pride-festival
🚴♀️ Sunday: Tour of Britain Women
Then, on Sunday 23 August, the sporting action arrives as Leamington hosts the final stage of the Lloyds Tour of Britain Women.
This year Leamington is both the start and finish location for the 123.8km final stage. The race gets underway at 11am, with the riders expected back for the finish at around 2.30pm.
And this isn’t just an event for cycling enthusiasts – there will be plenty happening for families and spectators throughout the day.
🎉 Don’t miss the Fan Zone at the Pump Room Gardens
The Pump Room Gardens will be transformed into a Tour of Britain Fan Zone (9.30am – 4pm), giving visitors a chance to enjoy the atmosphere before, during and after the race.
Highlights – what families can do
- 🚴♀️ Watch the race on the big screen
- 🚲 See a BMX stunt show
- 🤸♀️ Have a go at BMX workshops
- 🏎️ Try the Scalextric pedal-powered game
- 🧗 Take on the climbing wall
- 🚴 Experience the velodrome track – have a go!
- 🎨 Get creative with cycling-themed arts and crafts
- 👨👩👧👦 Enjoy a range of free activities designed for families
And, of course, there are two great opportunities to see the world’s best female cyclists up close – at the start in Leamington and as they return for the dramatic finish.
Event information here: www.warwickshire.gov.uk/tour-britain-women/tour-britain
🌈🚴♀️ Make a weekend of it in Leamington
With Warwickshire Pride on Saturday and the Tour of Britain Women on Sunday, it’s set to be a fantastic weekend.
Come for the events, stay for the day! With two fantastic days of free entertainment, there’s plenty of opportunity to explore the town centre too. Browse the shops, enjoy lunch in a restaurant, grab a coffee, meet friends for a drink or discover somewhere new to eat. Your visit can make a real difference to our local businesses – so why not make a weekend of it and enjoy everything Leamington has to offer?
Two days. Two major events. One brilliant weekend in Leamington.
by Alison Shaw | Jul 30, 2026 | News
The Cocktail Academy is bringing world-class mixology to Warwickshire, offering unforgettable cocktail masterclasses, private parties and corporate events that prove making great cocktails is every bit as exciting as drinking them.
Built on the philosophy, “We don’t think a cocktail needs a story to taste good. We just think it tastes better once you know it,” The Cocktail Academy blends expert tuition, fascinating cocktail history and plenty of hands-on fun into one unforgettable experience.
Meet the Master Behind the Shaker
Leading every session is Head Mixologist Beka Luarsabishvili, whose 13 years of international experience behind some of the world’s finest bars has shaped a masterclass unlike any other.
Born in Georgia and trained across the globe, Beka has distilled years of expertise into an immersive 70-minute cocktail masterclass, held every Sunday at The Nomad, Leamington Spa.
What’s Included?
Guests create three classic cocktails from scratch, learning professional techniques, perfect ratios and the stories behind each drink. It’s equal parts masterclass, tasting session and memorable night out.
Every experience includes:
- Making every cocktail yourself with expert guidance.
- Discovering the history and science behind each creation.
- Small classes of just 16 guests, ensuring plenty of personal attention.
- A stunning setting at The Nomad, one of Warwickshire’s most stylish cocktail destinations.
Perfect for Every Celebration
Whether it’s a team social, hen or stag party, birthday celebration or private event, The Cocktail Academy tailors every experience to suit the group, from cocktail selection to skill level.
Award-Winning Venue
The Cocktail Academy is proudly hosted at The Nomad, Leamington Spa, recently crowned Best Bar in Warwickshire & the Midlands at the Muddy Stilettos Awards.
Raise a glass to Head Mixologist Beka and the talented Nomad team, whose passion, creativity and expertise are making Warwickshire one of the UK’s most exciting cocktail destinations.
For more Info and to book please visit The Cocktail Academy
Cheers!
by Alison Shaw | Jul 1, 2026 | News
Moroccan Givings is delighted to announce the opening of its new store at 67 Regent Street, Leamington Spa, CV32 5DX.
The new location showcases a carefully curated collection of authentic Moroccan handcrafted home décor, including wooden dishes, hand-blown glasses and jugs, handmade floor cushions, and a wide range of unique artisan pieces.
Whether you’re searching for a distinctive addition to your home, a thoughtful gift, or simply looking for inspiration, Moroccan Givings invites the local community to visit and experience the beauty and craftsmanship of Morocco.
The team looks forward to welcoming customers to the new store and celebrating this exciting new chapter with the Leamington Spa community.
by Alison Shaw | Apr 21, 2026 | News
Rosa’s Thai Leamington Spa is delighted to announce it has won Best Restaurant in Warwickshire at the recent Business Awards, held in Birmingham on Sunday, 12 April. The recognition highlights the restaurant’s commitment to delivering authentic Thai cuisine and exceptional dining experiences within the local community.
Part of a UK-wide group of over 40 locations, Rosa’s Thai has built a strong reputation for serving fresh, flavourful dishes inspired by founder Saiphin Moore’s heritage. What began as a humble market stall on London’s Brick Lane has grown into a beloved restaurant brand, known for signature dishes such as Pad Thai and Green Curry, all prepared using traditional Thai ingredients and recipes.
Founded by Saiphin Moore, who brought cherished family recipes from her childhood in Thailand to the UK, Rosa’s Thai continues to celebrate authentic flavours in a relaxed and welcoming setting, with options catering to a wide range of diners, including vegetarian and family-friendly choices.
The Leamington Spa team expressed immense pride in being nominated and recognised by guests through the voting process. This achievement reflects their ongoing dedication to delivering outstanding hospitality, vibrant flavours, and memorable dining experiences.
Linda Petpisit, General Manager of Rosa’s Thai Leamington Spa, said, “We are incredibly proud to be nominated for Best Restaurant in Warwickshire. This recognition means so much to our team, especially as it reflects the support and votes from our valued guests. Our passion has always been to deliver authentic Thai flavours alongside a warm, friendly dining experience, and we are honoured to be part of the Leamington Spa community.”
[Names of team on photo : Linda Petpisit, Lucille Alferez, Lalita Petpisit, Marcellah Janadi]
by Alison Shaw | Mar 20, 2026 | News
Sukhi Eyes Ltd have been shortlisted as a Frame Styling Practice of the Year by the UK’s largest association representing independent opticians and optometrists.
Sukhi Eyes Ltd was one of four optical practices chosen from throughout the UK to receive the accolade from business support group SightCare for their dedication to eyecare in their local community.
Sukhi Eyes Ltd have been open for the eyecare needs of the local community for one year and has continued to uphold a high standard of care for all who visit their practice at 64D Regent Street, CV32 5EG Leamington Spa.
Sukhi Cheema said: “As a female‑led team, being shortlisted for Frame Styling Practice of the Year means so much to us. At Sukhi Eyes, community is at the heart of everything we do, and we’ve built that community one person at a time through truly personalised eyecare and eyewear styling. Our approach has always been centered on the individual. Every styling appointment is shaped around you, your look, your personality, your lifestyle. We hand‑select frames we’re genuinely proud to offer, pieces chosen with intention, creativity, and joy. When the right frame meets the right person, it becomes more than eyewear; it becomes a piece of their personality.
Our ‘happy eyes’, our Sukhi Eyes, book continues to grow, filled with people who’ve found frames that make them feel seen, confident, and authentically themselves. Being shortlisted is a celebration of that commitment to thoughtful, personalised styling and the happy, confident eyes we love creating together.”
Emma Rawlings, SightCare CEO, said:
“We invited independent practices from across the UK to enter our highly prestigious awards, and we were delighted with the exceptional level of our entrants. We carefully selected our shortlisted practices based on their outstanding achievements within their communities and their dedication to their profession. Independent optical practices continue to demonstrate remarkable commitment to delivering high-quality eyecare and supporting the wellbeing of their local communities. We are delighted to announce that Sukhi Eyes Ltd has been shortlisted for this award and were impressed by the high standard of their application.
“Independent practices play a vital role in delivering personalised, community-focused eyecare. Their ability to build long-standing relationships with patients, offer tailored clinical expertise, and respond to the unique needs of their local area makes them an essential part of the UK’s eyecare landscape. Their independence allows them to innovate, go the extra mile, and provide a truly individual experience — something we have seen clearly in Sukhi Eyes Ltd.”
The Sukhi Eyes Ltd team will be attending the SightCare LIVE Award ceremony on 26 April 2026, where they will hear the results.
Mrs Sukhi Cheema said: We look forward to the event and thank our local community for their support.
by Alison Shaw | Mar 17, 2026 | News
Hop into Easter Fun in Leamington!
Families are invited to hop, skip and bounce around Leamington town centre this Easter for a super egg-citing Easter Egg Hunt – with loads of prizes to be won!
The Great Easter Egg Hunt is back and runs from Saturday 28 March to Sunday 12 April. Easter eggs are hiding in the windows of shops, cafés and restaurants all around the town centre – can you spot them all?
There are three fun trails to follow. Each egg has a letter clue on it, and when you collect all the letters, they’ll help you uncover three mystery phrases (one for each route). 🐰🥕🎉
A whopping 75 local businesses are taking part, and everyone who completes the trail will be entered into a prize draw. You could win a £100 voucher to spend in the town, plus lots of other brilliant prizes donated by local shops and businesses.
Entry forms can be picked up from participating shops, Leamington Visitor Information Centre, or the upper mall at the Royal Priors Shopping Centre or you can download it here!
Once you’ve finished your trail, pop your completed form into the Easter post box located at Bricks n Pieces, 37 Park Street or post to BID Leamington, 35c Park Court, Leamington Spa CV32 4QN.
Alison Shaw, Project Manager at BID Leamington, said: “We’re delighted to welcome families back to our Great Easter Egg Hunt. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy the town centre while discovering our brilliant local businesses.
“The event has been incredibly well supported again this year, with some amazing prizes available, and we can’t wait to see everyone enjoying Leamington this Easter.”
So, grab your family, put on your bunny ears and enjoy a cracking Easter adventure in Leamington! 🐣🌷
For more information visit www.royal-leamignton-spa.co.uk
by Alison Shaw | Mar 11, 2026 | News
New Coffee Shop Cacao Coffee & Chocolate Co Opens in Leamington Spa
Coffee lovers in Leamington Spa have a new destination to discover following the opening of Cacao Coffee & Chocolate Co, which officially welcomed customers to its newest café at 52–54 Warwick Street on Saturday, March 7.
The independent coffee brand, known for its speciality coffee and relaxed café atmosphere, brings a taste of Australian café culture to the heart of the town, offering expertly crafted drinks alongside brunch favourites and sweet treats.
Cacao Coffee & Chocolate Co’s journey began on the sunny coast of Australia, where its founders first developed a passion for exceptional coffee.
“We fell in love with the craft of great coffee while living in Australia,” a spokesperson for Cacao Coffee & Chocolate Co said. “We were fortunate to learn from some of the world’s best baristas, mastering everything from bean selection to achieving the perfect pour.”
Inspired by Australia’s vibrant and community-focused café scene, the team returned to the UK determined to recreate the same welcoming experience.
“When we opened our first café in 2013, our mission was simple — to share the warmth, flavour and community spirit we’d experienced abroad. Every café we open continues that vision.”
The new Leamington Spa location aims to become a social hub for residents and visitors alike, whether stopping by for a morning flat white, enjoying a leisurely brunch, or meeting friends over coffee.
“Our cafés are designed to be welcoming spaces for everyone,” the spokesperson added. “Whether you’re grabbing a quick takeaway or settling in for a catch-up, we serve every cup with the same care and love that sparked our journey.”
The opening marks another step in the brand’s continued expansion, bringing speciality coffee and a laid-back café experience to new communities.
For more information, visit:
www.cacaoccc.co.uk
