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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Ongoing coverage of Oxford United’s new stadium plans
Ongoing coverage of Oxford United’s plans for a new world-class 16,000-seat stadium at The Triangle in Kidlington.
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Silverstone’s Lap of Lights launches with Stacey Solomon attending opening night
Stacey Solomon attended the launch of Lap of Lights at Silverstone Circuit, calling the festive experience “magical” for families. The Christmas light trail runs from 12 December to 03 January 2026, with weekend tickets already close to selling out.
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Westgate Oxford partners with Retail Trust to support and protect retail workers this festive season
Westgate Oxford has joined forces with the Retail Trust to protect retail staff this festive season, offering free wellbeing and de-escalation training. Centre-wide messaging will encourage shoppers to show kindness and help restore respect to the high street.
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LEGO Group to open first Oxford store at Westgate Oxford next spring
The LEGO Group is opening its first Oxford store at Westgate Oxford next spring, offering immersive play experiences, exclusive sets and hands-on fun for fans of all ages. Recruitment for Brick Specialists begins in the new year.
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Salon Privé opens entries for 2026 Concours at Blenheim Palace
Salon Privé has opened entries for its 2026 Concours at Blenheim Palace, featuring a special class honouring 80 years of Bristol Cars alongside world-class classic and modern supercars.
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Hillier launches exclusive ‘Crown of Christmas’ poinsettia to support The King’s Foundation
Hillier Garden Centres has unveiled the exclusive ‘Crown of Christmas’ poinsettia for 2025, with £2 per sale supporting The King’s Foundation. The limited-edition pink variety highlights Hillier’s horticultural expertise and sustainability leadership. Available from November 2025.
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Last tickets remaining for free festive character visits at Westgate Oxford
Westgate Oxford has limited free tickets left for its festive character meet and greets, including The Grinch and The Snowman™ & The Snowdog. December also brings choir performances, late-night shopping, gift-wrapping, dining experiences and fun festive activities across the centre.
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New pottery painting studio opens at Yarnton Home & Garden
Yarnton Home & Garden has launched the Potting Shed Studio, a new pottery painting experience. Visitors can personalise mugs, vases, and festive items, creating unique keepsakes while enjoying a fun, creative day out for all ages.
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Oxfam launches Christmas personal shopper service for conscious Oxford shoppers
Oxfam is launching a Christmas Personal Shopper Gifting Service in Oxford to help residents find meaningful, affordable and sustainable presents. With many shoppers feeling financial pressure, the initiative supports second-hand gifting and offers tailored advice for thoughtful festive shopping.
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Mercure Oxford Hawkwell House celebrates first Green Key Award
Mercure Oxford Hawkwell House has earned its first Green Key Award, recognising its commitment to sustainability. Following a rigorous accreditation process, the Iffley hotel celebrates a major environmental milestone while continuing to expand its dining, events and guest experiences.
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Milton Park Christmas Market returns with festive flair and Signal Yard preview
Milton Park’s Christmas Market returns on 27 November, featuring artisan gifts, festive treats and a special preview of the upcoming Signal Yard amenity hub, complete with food, wellness stalls and live entertainment.
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Global beauty giant Sephora Oxford opens its doors at Westgate centre
Sephora has opened its store at Westgate Oxford – its 12th in the UK. Spanning nearly 4,000 square feet the flagship store offers a curated range of skincare makeup haircare and fragrance from cult favourites and exclusive brands.
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Westgate Oxford launches Alice in Wonderland trail and family activities
Westgate Oxford is hosting a week of free half-term fun with a new Alice in Wonderland trail, Halloween crafts, and the centre’s first-ever ‘dogwalk’ for pets and owners.
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Oxford United renews partnership with IFX Payments
Oxford United has renewed its partnership with IFX Payments for the 2025/26 season, extending a successful collaboration that supports the Club’s commercial operations and strengthens community and business ties through sponsorship and networking initiatives.
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A first look at Fortnum & Mason at Bicester Village
Take a first look at Fortnum & Mason’s first UK store outside London, now open at Bicester Village, featuring teas, hampers, gourmet treats, and the new On the Go crumpet kiosk.
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Sephora to open Oxford Westgate store this November
Sephora UK is opening its 12th UK store at Oxford Westgate on 07 November 2025. The launch will feature exclusive brands, in-store beauty services, and Beauty Bonus Card giveaways, making Oxford a new hub for beauty lovers.