Retail and Leisure
Our Retail and Leisure category brings together the places, products and experiences that shape how we shop, stay, unwind and explore. From independent boutiques and high-street favourites to standout hotels and leisure destinations, discover what’s new, what’s worth your time, and what’s making an impact across the sector.
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David Clulow opens new flagship eyewear store at Westgate Oxford
Eyewear retailer David Clulow has opened a redesigned flagship store at Westgate Oxford, featuring luxury eyewear brands, advanced eye testing facilities and an experience-led optical retail concept.
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Westgate Oxford to bring Jabberwocky to life for Alice’s Day festivities
Westgate Oxford will celebrate Alice’s Day on Saturday 04 July with live performances of Jabberwocky, roaming characters, and themed installations in partnership with The Story Museum.
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Six rare Lotus Essex Esprit Turbos to unite at Blenheim Palace for landmark Salon Privé display
Six Lotus Essex Esprit Turbos will be reunited at Blenheim Palace during Salon Privé 2026, forming what is believed to be the largest-ever gathering of the rare 1980s model.
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Global fashion brand Bershka to open first Oxfordshire store at Westgate Oxford
Global fashion brand Bershka is set to open its first Oxfordshire store at Westgate Oxford later this year, taking over a prominent Upper Ground floor unit formerly occupied by River Island.
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High Lodge Farm launches Little Explorers woodland play sessions for young children this summer
High Lodge Farm near Abingdon is launching Little Explorers, a new woodland play experience for children under seven, featuring mud kitchens, water play, nature walks and outdoor adventures throughout the summer holidays.
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Giffords Circus returns to Oxfordshire with Waterfield, its most ambitious show yet
Giffords Circus is back in Oxfordshire this summer with Waterfield, a spectacular new production inspired by the wildlife and charm of the English countryside, touring Stonor Park and Barrington until 20 July.
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Bicester Village announces flagship cultural partnership with Shreeji News
Bicester Village has announced a flagship partnership with Shreeji News, bringing together two destinations known for curated retail and editorial storytelling. The collaboration launches with a landmark first — a satellite newsstand at Bicester Village
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Westgate Oxford kicks off 2026 World Cup celebrations with family-friendly football events and screenings
Westgate Oxford is celebrating the 2026 World Cup with free family activities, football challenges, crafting clubs, prize giveaways and live match screenings across its venues.
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Faringdon zero-waste shop celebrates fourth anniversary of helping customers reduce plastic waste
Tribe Zero-Waste in Faringdon has marked its fourth anniversary, reporting that customers have helped keep more than 1.7 tonnes of plastic out of circulation through refill shopping and packaging-free purchases since 2022.
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Legendary 1935 Duesenberg SJ Gurney Nutting Speedster to make rare UK appearance at Salon Privé 2026
A one-off 1935 Duesenberg SJ Gurney Nutting Speedster once commissioned by Indian royalty will make its first public appearance at Salon Privé 2026 at Blenheim Palace, marking one of the most significant classic car showcases in the UK this year.
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Westgate Oxford appoints Clare Martin as new Centre Director
Westgate Oxford has appointed Clare Martin as its new Centre Director. Having been part of the centre’s leadership team since 2018, she now takes on the role with a focus on retail, dining, leisure and strengthening community partnerships across Oxford.
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Families invited to step into a royal adventure this May half-term at Stowe House
Families are invited to enjoy an affordable royal-themed adventure this May half-term at Stowe House, featuring interactive trails, crafts and hands-on activities designed for children and families.
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Tour de France? Or… Le Tour de Cake?
Heth Miller introduces Le Great British Tour de Cake, a light-hearted collection of countryside cycling routes across Oxfordshire and West Berkshire, where café stops matter just as much as the miles. Designed for all abilities, it’s a celebration of gentle adventure, local scenery, and, most importantly, cake.
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Summer terrace season arrives at Flight Club Oxford
Flight Club Oxford has launched its Summer Terrace, transforming its outdoor space into a vibrant seasonal social hub, with floral styling, cocktails, brunch deals, and its signature Social Darts for a lively alfresco experience in the city centre.
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Salon Privé 2026 unveils first concours entries led by one-off 1952 Ferrari once owned by Juan Perón
Salon Privé 2026 has revealed its first concours entries, including a unique 1952 Ferrari Speciale by Ghia originally owned by Argentine president Juan Perón, alongside a rare Bristol 404 Prototype and a restored Lamborghini Countach 5000S.
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Salon Privé and Concours House launch new automotive lifestyle partnership
Salon Privé has announced a strategic partnership with Concours House near Bath, establishing a permanent presence at the automotive storage and events destination in Bradford-on-Avon. The alliance will see the two brands collaborate on curated events and exclusive experiences for collectors.