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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The new David Lloyd Club in Bicester is now open
The new luxury club, located within the new Catalyst Park in South Bicester, officially opened its doors to members on Tuesday, 20 September.
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Expected revenue from Castle Quay plummets by nearly £1m
Cherwell District Council’s latest monthly performance, risk and finance monitoring report revealed that it anticipates net revenue from the centre to be much lower than initially budgeted.
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Dyson Styling Tour comes to The Cotswolds’ Big Feastival from 26 to 28 August
This immersive beauty experience will feature Dyson’s complete portfolio of hair care technology products alongside personalised recommendations, demonstrations, and support from Dyson experts.
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Padel – the UK’s fastest growing sport comes to Bicester
Described as a hybrid game of squash and tennis, and simple to learn and play by all ages, Padel is launching at David Lloyd Bicester.
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County councillor questions bus access in Broad Street pedestrianisation proposals
The County Council’s cycling champion has described the new shared space proposals for Broad Street, Oxford, as “brave and symbolic” while arguing they do not go far enough.
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Broad Street to undergo transformation with temporarily pedestrianisation
Following the success of Broad Meadow last year, Oxford City Council is set to temporarily pedestrianise a larger area of Broad Street in a new 18-month trial.
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Plans to expand Belmond Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons move a step closer
South Oxfordshire District Council’s planning committee granted full planning permission for the erection of a new wellness spa, bistro, garden villas and rooms, pavilions, extensions to the Grade II* manor house and other buildings.
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Lothbury’s plans for Oxford’s Clarendon Centre approved by City Council
Opened in 1984 as a shopping centre in central Oxford, the Clarendon Centre is undergoing a change of use to develop an academic and living hub.
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Root One Garden Centre unveils plant area extension and new building
Root One Garden Centre in Wallingford has unveiled extensions to its coffee shop and retail areas to improve its customer experience and increase the range of goods stocked at the site.
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Bertioli and Bell Hutley collaborate to launch new tableware range
The collaboration – a collection of limited edition tableware – has evolved from a shared desire to tell the story of nature’s pollinators and to celebrate their magic.
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Oxford bookseller Blackwell’s is acquired by Waterstones
Oxford’s iconic academic and specialist bookseller which started trading 143 years ago was acquired by Waterstones after it scrapped plans to transfer the company’s ownership to its staff.
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Blackwell’s is up for sale for the first time in 143 years
The family-owned academic bookseller has been privately owned for 143 years, and this is the first time the owners have considered selling the business after calling off plans to hand ownership to staff.
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Work progressing to transform Boswells building into a luxury hotel
Oxford’s iconic Boswells store building is on course to become a new 4-star luxury hotel, following the demolition of the inside of the historic building.
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The Gym Group has opened second 24/7 training space in Oxford
Costing more than £1 million to create, the new gym located next to Aldi and Homebase has opened just in time for those looking to set personal fitness goals for the new year.
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Oxford’s Mayor raises a glass to Majestic’s new store in Summertown
The retailer has returned to the site of their old branch, which closed a few years ago, with a dedicated ‘Tasting Counter’ and an expanded ‘Fine Wine’ selection.
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Soho Farmhouse gets permission for 20 new bedroom huts
It will transform the site of a former camping field and football pitch into new bedrooms, adding to it’s collection of cabins, farm buildings, gym, restaurants and walled garden cottages.