Bang opposite the Shell (now Esso) petrol station at the top of town nestles a bright little café which provides tasty hot food, hot drinks, cakes and a very warm welcome for anyone in need of some company or a place where they can fully be themselves.  Owner Fran Scott explains the aims, facilities and events embodied in this unique little spot at the top of town.  https://www.forgetmenot.cafe/ 

On Sunday 12th October 2025, Leamington’s Parade will be brightened with the Diwali lights which this year will be switched on by Councillor Naveen Tangri, Chair of Warwick District Council.  In this episode, he tells us about the origins and meaning of Diwali, his own recollections of childhood celebrations and the relevance of the messages of Diwali to us all, irrespective of faith. 

https://www.warwickdc.gov.uk/events/event/370/diwali_lights_switch_on

Initially an experiment, the Friday markets in Holly Walk have proven to be a welcome addition to the Leamington calendar. Aaron Probert-Walker of CJ's Events shares how they got started and then Danielle from Perfect Pear and Debbie from Just Us Clothing and Accessories give us the traders' perspective on the Friday Markets vibe. https://www.cjseventswarwickshire.co.uk/ 

For the first time ever, Leamington will be turning pink in aid of cancer research.  Between 11th and 19th October, town centre businesses, markets, and the public will be taking part in pink-themed activities and events, and of course adding a little pink to their own appearance to mark the event.  Deborah Barleggs, Chair of the Leamington Spa & Warwick Cancer Research UK Committee explains what's planned, how we can take part and where we can find out more. [email protected]  #turnleamingtonpink 

A feature of the Leamington streetscape for four decades, Sarah Horne's floral artistry is recognised both by locals and in national and international competition.  Now also renowned for her art, homewares and academy, Sarah shares her remarkable story in this special extended episode of Life in Leam.

https://www.sarahhornebotanicals.com/

You’ve probably noticed the 1 Mill Street building if you’ve walked across the Mill Bridge and weir south of Jephson Gardens.  And you’ve also probably wondered what goes on there! Well wonder no more. I stepped inside, got the grand tour and General Manger Cat Callicott told me all about their free-to-use and member facilities in the building itself, and also their initiatives supporting the local community. And the icing on the cake, we recorded in their actual podcast studio! Listen and enjoy.   https://www.1millstreet.com/

Another once-a-year moment is upon us with the Heritage Days, when the public can get special access to historical buildings and spaces.  Stella Bolitho, Chair of the Leamington History Group sat with me in All Saints Church, Leamington to preview some of the highlights and also mentions a Leamington VIP who is participating for the first time.  Sort of.

Leamington History Group

Eventbrite Tickets

Heritage Days Booklet

Leamington’s famed Food and Drink Festival is now in its 18th year and runs on 6th and 7th September in Pump Room Gardens.  I met with Alison Shaw and Steph Kerr from BID Leamington to get the inside track on what’s planned for this year. As a bonus, I also get a fascinating insight into what the small but perfectly formed Business Improvement District team do to promote and develop our town centre, and what we can do to help.  https://leamingtonfoodfestival.co.uk/ https://royal-leamington-spa.co.uk/ 

Now in its 127th year, the Old Milverton Horticultural Show makes its return on Saturday 6th September 2025.  Michael Gray and Mike Tansley from the show’s organising Society give us a preview of this longstanding countryside tradition, the wide range of produce and crafts it encompasses, and of course, the always popular barn dance. www.oldmilvertonshow.co.uk 

Grab some folk at a festival and ask them their top tips for food and drink or an evening out around town and this is what you get - a condensed 3 min flavour-packed amuse-bouche of suggestions.  Not a scientific survey but some familiar names, some new names, and a few that keep popping up.