Once again, Jephson Gardens and Mill Gardens host an extraordinary free festival of art, music, performance and food during the first weekend in August. Festival Director Kate Livingston gives us an 8-minute rundown on the 250 artists, live performances and workshops, her top tips for first-timers, and the opportunities for anyone to volunteer in support of this remarkable event. https://www.artinpark.co.uk/

On a warm summer’s day, a paddle on the river seems a very attractive idea. Whether you just want to splash about on a paddleboard, or have ambitions to be a competitive kayaker, the Royal Leamington Spa Canoe Club is on hand right opposite Victoria Park to teach you the fundamentals and to help you develop as far as you wish. Head Coach Brett Sirrell explains what the club does and how anyone with an interest can get paddling. https://www.rlscc.com/

What happens if you mix some cookie dough and some magic? The answer is Snickerwoodles Magical Bakery which recently opened on Regent Street. It might be magical but it’s no longer entirely a mystery as owner Sally Rees tells us how it got started, how their locally sourced ingredients help them to be a favourite of customers with dietary restrictions, and what on earth a Snickerwoodle is anyway. https://wickedcookies.co.uk/

The redevelopment of the building on Parade previously occupied by House of Fraser has been a source of curiosity in Leamington for the best part of five years. Finally the building work is over, and Bedford Street Studios is real. But what’s happening there? Site Manager Ben Rye explains all. Website

With the Leamington half-marathon staged recently, now seems a good moment to check-out its more accessible sibling, parkrun. A Saturday morning tradition at Newbold Comyn since 2011. I went along to talk with Co-Event Director Dave Chantrey, some volunteers. runners and walkers to find out what makes parkrun a very special weekly fixture in their calendars, and how you too can get involved. Website

There’s something happening on 12th July and “it’s a choral revolution” proclaims choir founder Harvey Brough. He takes a few minutes away from rehearsals to tell us about how he and the choir are preparing songs by Nina Simone, Johnny Cash and Randy Newman for their 2nd concert following their sell-out tribute to The Kinks in April. Some tickets still available from Eventbrite.

A couple of months ago, optometrist Sukhi Cheema took the huge step of opening her own optician’s practice on Regent Street in the centre of town. With several optician’s shops already nearby, she tells us why she is passionate about offering a different kind of eye care, grounded in her own ethos, specialisms and experience. Website

Anytime Fitness popped up on the Parade in May 2025. A new sight in town, we went to investigate and caught up with Rob Kelly the Club Manager to understand what it’s all about - and why a man with large hammers was stood outside during its first weeks of opening. Website