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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Vintage Beetles and Campervans to return to Stonor Park in VW Car Rally event
Stonor Park’s popular VW Car Rally is returning on Sunday 31 May, bringing classic Beetles, Campervans and vintage Volkswagens to the Oxfordshire estate for a family-friendly day of live music, street food and automotive nostalgia.
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Hinksey Outdoor Pool to reopen on 16 May after £200k upgrade
Hinksey Outdoor Pool reopens on 16 May after a £200k investment to improve energy efficiency and enhance the swimming experience.
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Westgate Oxford launches free Shaun the Sheep trail for families this May
Westgate Oxford is bringing Shaun the Sheep to the city this May with a free augmented reality trail, creative workshops and family activities during half term.
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LEGO store with immersive retail experience opened at Westgate Oxford
The LEGO Group has opened a new store in Oxford’s Westgate shopping centre, featuring immersive retail experiences, interactive play areas and exclusive LEGO sets.
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Salon Privé to return to Blenheim Palace in 2026 with expanded five-day luxury automotive showcase
Salon Privé will return to Blenheim Palace in September with its most ambitious edition yet, featuring an expanded five-day programme of classic cars, supercars, luxury brands and lifestyle experiences.
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Oxford United confirm changes to its board and appointment of new Chair
Oxford United have confirmed a board reshuffle with Dusan Bogdanovic appointed as new Chair and Rudi Laksmana joining the board, as Grant Ferguson steps down but remains a director under the club’s Indonesian ownership.
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Oxford Ladies Golf Club marks 125th anniversary with Edwardian-themed celebration in Cowley
Oxford Ladies Golf Club has marked its 125th anniversary with an Edwardian-themed celebration at Oxford Golf Club, as members reflect on its pioneering role in women’s golf since 1901 and its ongoing commitment to accessibility and participation.
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Eye health specialist David Clulow to open new store at Westgate Oxford this spring
Eye health specialist David Clulow is set to open a new store at Westgate Oxford this spring, bringing an enhanced eye care and retail experience featuring advanced testing facilities, designer eyewear and smart lens technology.
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Flight Club to celebrate one billion darts with global trip giveaway and lifetime prize
Flight Club is celebrating a global milestone of one billion darts thrown with a prize campaign offering a world trip for four and Social Darts for life, alongside daily in-venue giveaways for guests booking Social Darts or Bottomless Brunch.
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Crazy Bear to turn back the clock with 90s Ibiza house garden party this Bank Holiday
The Crazy Bear Stadhampton is set to rewind the clock this Bank Holiday with a 90s-inspired Ibiza house garden party, featuring legendary DJs, club classics and a sun-soaked daytime dance atmosphere.
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Medieval jousting returns to Stonor Park for an action-packed Bank Holiday weekend
An action-packed medieval weekend returns to Stonor Park this Bank Holiday as knights clash in thrilling jousting tournaments, alongside falconry displays, hands-on activities and family adventure at Tumblestone Hollow.
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Shaun the Sheep AR trail to bring family fun to Westgate Oxford this May
Shaun the Sheep arrives at Westgate Oxford this May with a free augmented reality trail, interactive challenges and half-term activities designed to offer families an engaging and creative day out.
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Cokethorpe alumni reunite for sailing event at Farmoor Reservoir
Cokethorpe alumni and students reunited at Farmoor Reservoir for a sailing event celebrating friendship, teamwork, and shared memories built through the school’s long-standing sailing programme.
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voco Oxford Thames hotel sees surge in dog-friendly stays over Easter
voco Oxford Thames has seen a surge in dog-friendly stays, with record demand over Easter as more guests choose to travel with their pets.
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BRDC Classic to return to Silverstone celebrating motorsport heritage
The BRDC Classic will return to Silverstone this July, bringing historic racing, iconic cars and immersive motorsport experiences to fans across a three-day celebration.
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Westgate Oxford to host free book giveaway ahead of World Book Night
Westgate Oxford will host a free book giveaway with Oxford Westgate Library ahead of World Book Night, offering titles for all ages alongside family activities to promote reading, community engagement and awareness of local library services.