East Midlands Trains Comparison From Leicester and Rugby To London and how an upgrade to 1st Class can work out cheaper

Travelling by train from the Midlands to London; check smaller nearby stations for much cheaper...

Charlie Black

2026-01-07T16:59:00.0000000 2026-01-09T10:37:45.6700000

This snoop is for anyone who travels by train regularly and needs a good rant. I am always having a moan about the trains and how much they cost, alongside how bad the service is; especially as a freelancer, I have to pay for my work transportation myself.

However I’ve figured out a way to travel first class and not pay anymore than my regular ticket by swapping things around a little which lessens the blow of a less than regular service, surly staff, packed trains and not always getting seat.

I’ve got quite a bit of experience and not the type to spend on first class tickets but I’d thought I’d share the ways I manage to save money and get myself into the 1st class carriage without breaking the bank or getting myself arrested by the transport police.

I travel from the Midlands to London St Pancreas from Leicester a journey which takes about an hour which can cost anywhere from a few pounds to £80 each way depending on the time you want to travel and how early you book in advance, also the website you choose to book your ticket on.

Leicester to London can take anywhere from just over an hour, one hour and 5 minutes the fastest up to one hour and 25 minutes, with no changes.

And the price at peak times from 7am in the morning to 9.30am the price varies weekdays from £114 (£167 first class) return up to £170 (£233 first class)

If you can give a couple of weeks notice, I checked prices on the Trainline and Train tickets, you get things a little cheaper but not much the fares ranged for peak time travel from £92 (£125 in first class) up to £154 (£175 first class) on the trainline, and £97 to £151 on Train tickets.

On Lner for the same dates and times the economy tickets were more but the first class tickets were a little cheaper, except the fastest trains where you have to pay £210 for a 1st class return ticket at peak times.

My advice if you want to get to London and don’t have to travel from Leicester, go from Rugby in Warwickshire instead and make a significant saving, with equivalent tickets to London St Pancreas (trains get into Euston and then take the tube one stop to St Pancreas) I walk on a nice day, takes about 5 minutes, are available for as little as £52 return for the same dates and times. If you are prepared to miss the rush hour, leave a little later like 9.30am and don’t mind a stop at Milten Keynes, putting 10 minutes on the journey time, the price drops at low as £40 return.

With closer cheaper parking, a smaller station, less hassle and still just over an hour into London.

We all know British train service compared to European service are shocking. The reason I always check out 1st class prices is not because 1st is so much better, it’s not, but you are guaranteed a seat, standing all the way when you are working is not ideal and there is hostess service which on a packed train at rush hour is worth the sometimes only £20 - £30 extra. Especially if you’ve saved the difference travelling from a smaller less well used station like in my case Rugby.

My advice to anyone travelling by train especially to London, check out nearby smaller stations like Wakefield instead of Leeds, or Five Ways instead of Birmingham New Street. And definitely do your homework on the different websites and apps offering tickets as the prices can vary quite considerably depending on travel times and dates, advance notice and special offers.

I have even found sometimes purchasing two single tickets from different sites can work out cheaper than shopping conveniently all in one place.

Older railway stations like Leeds and Leicester have had significant refurbishment and are much more interesting architecturally and historically than smaller stations but if a great deal on your fare is more important I suggest travelling from a small local station with perhaps fewer trains for less and using some of the saving for a definite quieter seat in a 1st class carriage.

Lutterworth Town Band Local People Coming Together to Make Music and Bring Joy

I love snooping about the local teamwork of Lutterworth Brass Band and giving a shout out

Charlie Black

2025-12-25T10:00:00.0000000 2025-12-25T11:10:00.1430000

You don’t often get the good vibes of a brass band, playing live outside in the freezing cold, entertaining everyone while they rush around getting last minute shopping on Christmas Eve in Leicestershire. They say joy is experienced in fleeting moments and this was one of those moments while I waited in the car, the driver whilst someone went into the supermarket to fight the crowds. Normally I’d be on my phone, answering emails and using the time productively, but today I was able to sit and listen, be completely entertained by the live performance, a combination of well known Christmas tunes, carols and classical pieces. The repertoire was very varied and definitely something for everyone.

But the best part of all was the happy vibes, that feeling of just stopping for a moment and listening to the music, it made me think of Victorian authors, Jane Austen, Charles Dickens, Thomas Hardy, conjuring times gone by when a walk out to the band stand in the park on a Sunday was a regular afternoon’s entertainment, rest and respite from the gruelling 6 days a week in the factory or down the pit so many of our relatives endured perhaps only two or three generations ago for many.

Although this isn’t a movie review per se listening to the music made me think about a film, Brassed Off, which tells the tale of a Yorkshire Brass Band, coming back to life after the workplace collieries lays off all the staff and the Bands fate is sealed.

This snoop didn’t start out as my top six feel good Christmas film review guide but listening to the Lutterworth Town band and the friends and family holding the collection boxes for the necessary financial support, transport to venues etc, made me think of the 1998 film if you need an uplifting family film over the Christmas period it’s a great choice of the Full Monty, Jam and Jerusalem, Calendar Girls, The Holiday, Kate Winslet, Jude Law, Cameron Diaz and Jack Black with legendary Eli Wallace as Arthur Abbot, Made in Dagenham, Pride or Timothy Spall, Celia Imrie and Imelda Staunton in Finding Your Feet 2012, type of watch. Feel good, nostalgic vibes all the way, with big life lessons on the side, perfect for the holiday season.

This is the plot line in a nutshell; In a village in Northern England, Danny (Pete Postlethwaite), the conductor of a colliery brass band, has difficulty maintaining the morale of his musicians when the economic future of the area is threatened by the possibility that the local coal mine will be closed. When a former resident, Gloria (Tara Fitzgerald), returns to assess the mine, she get involved with her former flame, Andy (Ewan McGregor), and also the band, joining them in their last hurrah at a national competition.

This snoop is a tribute to local brass bands everywhere who come together to share their love of music. It’s not about being the best brass band, or being note perfect. Or even if you can’t tell the difference between a Tuba and a Euphonium, a cornet and a trumpet. It about that rousing feeling, the feeling you get listening to a brass band play together, something innately British I think and something not always appreciated or supported in the modern world.

I loved hearing Lutterworth Town band play for everyone for free and if you get the chance to support your local brass band I’d encourage you to stop and listen for a moment and check how the music actually makes you feel.

And any local brass musicians looking to join a band, Lutterworth Town Band welcome musicians of all ages. They get together every Wednesday evening at Lutterworth Town Hall, Market, Square, Lutterworth. All you need to bring is yourself and your instrument to join in the fun.

Aldwinkles Independent Off The Beaten Track and Rest Spot After Christmas Shopping In Market Harborough

And gorgeous handmade decorations by ‘Sarah Makes” add value at Aldwinkles

Charlie Black

2025-11-18T10:56:00.0000000 2025-11-22T17:48:36.1930000

I absolutely love love love this little place up Church St in Market Harborough, when I worked in Market Harborough I'd get my lunch here all the time either taking the time to sit down if I wasn't busy, more often than not, to go. For first time visitors it's very easy to miss if you don't know where you are going and looking for the perfect rest stop especially after a busy day Christmas shopping you might find yourself opting for somewhere more visible but just not quite so good.

Market Harborough is a small historic market town known for its array of independent shops like gorgeous secondhand clothes shops consignment stores Ginger Kate and The Attic, small quirky bars, like The Shed wine bar, Fifty Eight and Fernie Hall all run by passionate and fun proprietors, and super interiors offerings Bagel and Griff and Heaven at Home, plus amazing handmade jewellery from Ada, who boasts a celebrity client list, D.J. Jo Wiley can often be spotted knocking around town and Thornton's family jeweller next door to lovely Margaret Kenny's Lingerie store are also on my list of pop ins when I visit.

There are big brands too like Jo Malone, The White Company (I've snooped about before) Space NK and a gorgeous new Joules shop opened on the high st for the well heeled, less budget conscious Christmas shoppers so Market Harborough as a town centre really has something for everyone if you are in the Midlands looking for something more exciting and less run of the mill than say Westfield shopping centre in Derby or Highcross shopping mall in Leicester. The cooks on your list are well accommodated by The Kitchen Range Cookshop, a gorgeous store relocated to larger premises from Church street to next door to subway, known for drawing a crowd for exciting demonstrations and special guest appearances like Keith Brymer Jones from the great pottery throw down. And Lakeland is a great option for the homemakers and chefs on your list.

And when you are done bobbing in and out of all the cute small shops, and you find the Antique Centre on Church Street, also well worth a pop in if you love to browse curated with Love collectibles from a host of independent traders, you are one step away from Aldwinkles, an independent treasure of a cafe and rest spot in Market Harborough.

Not sure who does the cooking, but she or he is a really good cook who delivers everything on the menu made fresh to your table. The menu is simple, homemade soups, gorgeous breads and focaccia from Hambletons bakery next door, fresh olives, salads, sandwiches, with a homemade hot vegan plant based option every day. One of the only places in town offering a daily hot plant based choice (that's not mushroom risotto). Nothing is too much trouble at Aldwinkles, and the standards are very high, from the barista style coffees served to the luxurious Belgian hot chocolate, complete with whipped cream, chocolate shavings and marshmallows if you so desire.

You'll find Sarah behind the counter, with her up and coming brand “Sarah Makes” who as well as being an experienced barista is also an extremely talented crafter, she makes gorgeous handmade ornaments which I have collected over the years. If you get to see these, they are as lovely as anything you would find in Liberty or Fortnum and Mason in London for a fraction of the price, these are the special things you are going to encounter at Aldwinkles.

Sit outside on the fairylit heated patio, get wrapped up in a blanket and taste the delicious homemade soup with crunchy croutons, you'll think they've kidnapped Jamie Oliver and got him working in the kitchen. You may even find yourself sitting next to Joules founder Tom Joules, a market Harborough local and well known for shopping and supporting locally.

And if you need to linger or need an office for the day, Aldwinkles offer free Wi-Fi and will happily keep the coffee and cakes coming.

Thanks Aldwinkles Cafe Team. Always a pleasure.

Wistow Cafe: A Charming Countryside Cafe Retreat with Historic Views, Walks and Shopping

Visit Wistow Cafe in Leicestershire: A Charming Spot for Local Cuisine and Breathtaking Views...

Charlie Black

2025-10-08T16:55:00.0000000 2025-10-10T09:02:52.4870000

The rural centre where Wistow cafe is located is a lovely place to check out hosting a whole range of independent shops. The jewel in the crown is the Wistow cafe, a coffee shop stroke casual restaurant serving breakfast lunch and afternoon teas, hours 9.30am to 4pm every day and located in the Wistow Rural Centre at Kibworth Road, Wistow, Leicester, LE8 0QF. 

This cafe is quite a special place, first of all for it’s stunning rural location right next to gorgeous historic Georgian mansion Wistow Hall. It’s a private residence so you cannot go in and snoop around but a beautiful palladium style building you can see from the road.

The cafe attracts all manner of walkers, cyclists, shoppers, ladies who lunch, the faire is hearty and homemade and the selection whilst not extensive, the usual stuffed baked potatoes and sandwiches, they do have a vegan plant based offering every day, rare for the area and the vegan afternoon teas (made to order and prebooking necessary) are better than anything else I have tried in the plant based sector. So good in fact we’ve booked plant based for everyone for a tea party in the past and didn’t tell anyone until after the fact. The cream tea lovers in our group didn’t know it wasn’t their usual scones topped with whipped double cream. And my family have used Wistow Cafe Bistro a couple of times around the holidays to cater parties at home and the food was polished off by all the guests to rave reviews and not super expensive. And because everything has a real homemade feel you can even pretend you made it all yourself if you don't want to let the cat out of the bag. I'll apologise to my sister here and now who planned to cook herself and then found herself with too much to do pre event.

The setting is rustic and shabby chic in style with lovingly hung fairy lights, the owners care about the decor, flowers on every table, blankets and cushions in the covered indoor patio and pooches very welcome. Be warned though muddy boots must be removed and left outside.

In the summer you’ll find the queue for Purdecks ice cream stretching around the building and you might find yourself waiting a while for a first come first serve table. It’s cafeteria style, you order at the counter and then grab a table either inside or out.

The food is not fancy but fresh and cooked to order.

The downsides, the loos are a good walk away at the other side of the Rural Centre and the staff can be a little bit bossy if you are slow to make your mind up or are not ready to pay on demand or on cue. Like I said it does get busy especially in the summer but if you are looking for somewhere to enjoy a walk, a stunning old church, wild life, the rare belted Galloway cattle are a sight to be hold and the birdlife on the lake, swans and ducks are a lovely sight whatever the season.

You might even see a mother duck ushering her ducklings across the road if you are lucky and the famous Wistow maze right across the street is also a fun attraction in the summer months when the sun flowers stand tall and make finding your way to the centre a challenge for adults and kids a like. It’s a treat for my nephews and nieces in the summer holidays that’s become a bit of a tradition. They also love going at this time of year when the maze is transformed into a pumpkin patch for Halloween.

Maximise Your Dining Experience with the Pizza Express Loyalty App: Rewards with Every Bite!

Get Downloading the Pizza Express App: A Seamless Blend of Culinary Delight and Rewarding Loyalty

Charlie Black

2025-09-16T08:42:00.0000000 2025-09-16T12:15:30.6500000

Only really good things to say about the Pizza Express App: The Loyalty Reward System That Does Truly Deliver

In a world where every brand seems to have a loyalty app, it's rare to find one that genuinely rewards you every time you use it. I’ve bought into apps for places I visit regularly, Pret A Manger and the Coop members scheme to name a couple that take more than they give. Enter the Pizza Express App, a game-changer in the world of dining rewards. This app does what it promises: it rewards your loyalty with pretty much every visit, making your dining experience not just about enjoying great food, but also about reaping real benefits. I was also in my local Pizza Express in Market Harborough which I highly recommend and one of our pizza’s was completely free which meant we could order dessert without busting through our budget. Yeah.

Easy to Use and Rewarding

One of the standout features of the Pizza Express App is its ease of use. Available for a quick download on both iOS and Android platforms, the app features a user-friendly interface that makes navigating through its options a breeze. Once downloaded all you do is pop in your table number and the app does the rest. Apparently you can book a table, browse the menu, check your loyalty points too, I haven’t used it for anything except a discount but the app’s design ensures that you can use it with minimal fuss.

Rewards on Every Visit

Unlike other apps that promise much but deliver little, the Pizza Express App makes sure that each visit counts. Every time you dine in or order a takeaway, you earn points that accumulate quickly. What’s more, the rewards are not just token gestures. Free pizzas, complimentary starters, and delicious desserts are all part of the reward menu, enticing enough to keep you coming back. It’s a really generous program.

Not Just About the Food

While Pizza Express is already well-loved for its delectable range of pizzas and other Italian dishes, beware the puddings are a little bit processed, high calorie, very rich and sugary, a heart attack on a plate. For the health conscious great if not enjoyed as a regular thing. The pizza express app adds another layer of fun and satisfaction to the dining experience. A bit like scratching a scratch card to see what you’ve won. So these days it’s not just the food that draws people in but also the tangible rewards they earn with every meal. From exclusive offers to special birthday treats, this app ensures that loyalty is acknowledged and celebrated.

I like it because I don’t feel like I am being conned to participate in something giving over all my data to get nothing back.

So if you’re tired of downloading dining apps that hardly ever reward your loyalty, the Pizza Express App is a refreshing change. It's a testament to how technology can enhance dining experiences, making them more rewarding, fun and enjoyable. With the promise of free food items and the ease of use, the Pizza Express App truly keeps me returning, not just for the cooked to order mouth-watering thin crust Romano pizzas, my favourite but for the rewards that come with every bite. Next time you’re craving a slice of heavenly pizza pie, remember that a side of delightful rewards is just an app download away.

Check Out Best 13 Vegetarian-Friendly Restaurants in the Midlands for a Unique Culinary Experience

Exciting 13 Top Vegetarian and Vegan Restaurants in the Midlands: A Guide to Innovative Dining...

Charlie Black

2025-09-05T08:08:00.0000000 2025-09-05T12:16:21.0370000

The Midlands, with its rich history and vibrant culture, is also a haven for vegetarians seeking a delightful culinary experience. The region offers a wide array of restaurants that cater to plant-based dietary preferences, combining traditional techniques with modern flavours. Here's a guide to 12 of the best vegetarian-friendly restaurants across the Midlands.

1. Ottolenghi, Bicester Village, Oxfordshire

Nestled in the chic Bicester Village, Ottolenghi is a must-visit for any food enthusiast. Renowned for its innovative and fresh approach, the restaurant offers a variety of vegetarian dishes that are as visually appealing as they are tasty.

2. Mortons in Gilmorton, Leicestershire

This charming eatery is known for its cozy ambiance and a menu that champions local produce. Vegetarians will appreciate the thoughtfully crafted dishes that bring out the natural flavors of the ingredients.

3. Pennbury Farm, Great Glen, Leicestershire

Pennbury Farm combines a farm shop, café, and deli, offering a farm-to-table dining experience. The vegetarian options here are made with ingredients sourced directly from their farm, ensuring freshness and quality.

4. The Sun Inn, Great Easton, Rutland

The Sun Inn is a traditional British pub with a modern twist on vegetarian dining. The kitchen uses seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients to create dishes that are both comforting and innovative.

5. The Nevill Arms, Medbourne, Leicestershire

This idyllic village pub offers a warm welcome and a menu packed with vegetarian-friendly options. The dishes are crafted to reflect both traditional and contemporary tastes.

6. Kilo Wine Bar, Quorn, Leicestershire

Kilo Wine Bar is perfect for those who enjoy pairing fine wines with exquisite vegetarian dishes. The menu features an array of creative and satisfying options that highlight the versatility of vegetarian cuisine.

7. Halcyon Kitchen, Queens Road, Leicester

Situated in the bustling area of Queens Road, Halcyon Kitchen offers a relaxed atmosphere with a diverse menu that includes many vegetarian and vegan options. Their dishes are colorful, hearty, and flavorful.

8. Que, Allandale Road, Stoneygate, Leicester

Que provides a contemporary dining experience with a strong emphasis on vegetarian and vegan cuisine. The menu is a celebration of global flavours, providing something unique for everyone.

9. The Waterfront Inn, Market Harborough

Located by the tranquil waterside, The Waterfront Inn offers a scenic dining experience. Their menu includes several vegetarian dishes that are perfect for a leisurely lunch or a romantic dinner.

10. Red Lion Inn, Great Bowden, Market Harborough

The Red Lion Inn is a quintessential English pub with a menu to match. Vegetarians will find plenty of options here, from hearty pies to lighter salads, all prepared with a focus on flavor and quality.

11. Bowden Stores, Great Bowden, Market Harborough

Bowden Stores is part café, part lifestyle store, offering a unique environment to shop and dine. The vegetarian options are abundant and include daily specials that feature seasonal ingredients.

12. The Shires Cookery School, East Haddon, Northamptonshire

While not a traditional restaurant, The Shires Cookery School offers vegetarian cooking classes where you can learn to make your gourmet dishes. It's a perfect option for those looking to expand their culinary skills.

13. The Griffin Inn, Swithland Woods, Leicestershire

Newly refurbished contemporary gastro pub with fine dining restaurant and extensive wine list with 50% vegetarian and vegan adapable options on their menu. A great choice for the fine dining experience if you are looking for more unusual and creative veggie options.

These 13 vegetarian-friendly restaurants in the Midlands are sure to provide a memorable dining experience with their unique dishes and commitment to quality which can usually be adapted to include vegan options as well. Whether you're a lifelong vegetarian or simply looking to explore meat-free options, as part of a healthier lifestyle choice, these establishments cater to all tastes and preferences.

We Buy Any Car my first experience I was ready for after reading the reviews

A business that is OK to deal with if you understand why they do things the way they do and keep...

Charlie Black

2025-09-01T13:05:00.0000000 2025-09-01T14:25:52.6870000

The lady at Fosse Park, Leicester wasn’t the friendliest at the beginning but she was under pressure and did warm up towards the end. She’s got a job to do and it’s not an easy one.

I arrived 10 minutes before my scheduled appointment so while I was waiting I had chance to really read the reviews online which are more bad than good to be fair.

The car, a jalopy I needed to get rid of as I’d already bought another car, so thankfully the massive drop in price quoted to price offered couldn’t actually happen to me. And they couldn’t ask me to pay them to take the car away. Ha Ha. I was expecting the £360 offered less the administration fee to end up being around £200. So I was ready for the blow.

The lady dealing with me first off told me she’d be ready in 5 minutes. When I checked in again 10 minutes later she said she would be 5 more minutes. I reminded her she had said that 10 minutes ago. She explained she was running a little bit behind which is fair enough.

I explained my lift back had a meeting to attend and she said she’d be as quick as she could.

Fifteen minutes later the lady appeared with clipboard in hand. She asked me to switch on the car, took a few pictures of the dashboard and clocked the mileage, then she walked around the vehicle in pretty much the same way they do when checking you haven’t trashed a rental car before you return it.

Then we went into the porta cabin for the bad news. I mentioned immediately I had been unable to find the area on the website to discuss the condition of the vehicle to avoid disappointment or unrealistic expectations which was acknowledged as being buried and not easy to find. She told me the company’s objective was to get people to the appointment which I said I understood. I did point out the reviews online which I had read while waiting for her were absolutely horrific and sympathised with her, she had a difficult job to do. She said the one’s on Trip advisor weren’t that bad. Not sure which ones she was looking at. I also mentioned I had emailed we Buy any car three days prior to the appointment after reading disappointed customer reviews to discuss the condition and quote before coming to the appointment and did not receive a reply. The lady helping me apologised, said she’d been off for a few days and then assured me even if someone had replied (which they should have done) it wouldn’t have made any difference because they have to see the vehicle. I said it would have made a difference because I’d have had a much more realistic quote. Which she then acknowledged.

She then went into her difficult sales spiel to break the bad news to me of what was coming, the actual offer. I let her off and told her to just rip the band aid off.

The quote online was £360, I expected based on the reviews £200, I got £131. I said it probably would have been better to scrap it. She said with a gulp it would be about the same as scrap isn’t paying very much at the moment.

The good things about the experience, the lady I dealt with was honest and didn’t try to sugar coat the business tactics used by we buy any car.

I was just very glad I was selling a very old car with a lot of miles on it because to lose almost 70% on a much higher value vehicle would have been truly gut wrenching.

My advice if you are going to use We Buy Any Car to sell your vehicle. Find the area on the website buried deep to describe accurately the condition of your car. Make sure you account for the extra £50 administration fee in the fine print.

And then whatever the online quote cut it by 50% and if you are happy to accept that number book an appointment. Then you won’t be shocked or disappointed with your dealings with We Buy Any Car.

Jazz Hair Salon Leicester finding the right person is the most important thing for your hair

6 months and Jazz has got my hair back looking good after a big mistake

Charlie Black

2025-07-28T08:00:00.0000000 2025-08-11T16:14:23.5070000

I made a big bad hair mistake about a year ago. In a mad moment I decided to have all my hair chopped off at a salon in Leicester. I won’t say who did it. Not fair. It was my choice and nothing wrong with the hair cut it was just too drastic and I absolutely hated it.

I went to Jazz after reading a few fabulous reviews about the kind of person she is and how she had helped people sort out hair disasters, bad colour and cuts without making anyone feel stupid.

Over the last 8 months I have been going to Jazz for cuts and colour, and on each visit she has slowly, without taking hardly any hair off (obviously I am trying to grow it out) reshaped it from a pixie cut with a terrible fringe into more an all one length textured bob which suits me much better.

I can wash and go. Doesn’t need a load of maintenance. I can wear it every day without having to wash it every day. Before the short cut needed so much maintenance I literally had to wash and style my hair every day.

It’s not long enough yet to tie it back but Jazz is working with me to get me there.

She’s a kind, patient, talented stylist, exactly what you need when you’ve made a mess of your hair yourself so I’d recommend anyone needing a hair disaster sorting out go and have a free consultation with Jazz.

She’ll give you a completely no nonsense honest opinion of what she can do and how long it is going to take. Lots of hair dressers hate it when you take a picture as expectations are unrealistic but I took pictures of what I wanted to achieve and it wasn’t a problem for Jazz.

For anyone who hates the hairdresser or is nervous of another disaster Jazz will gently guide you back to great hair.

I would recommend Jazz to anyone and actually have, she’s done my sisters hair a couple of times and one of my other sisters has booked Jazz and her team to do all her up does for her wedding, something the salon pride themselves on delivering for your big day.

The salon is based in St Nicholas Square at the top of the high st in Leicester City Centre with very easy parking close by in either the Grosvenor Casino or Highcross Shopping Centre. If you are on bus walking distance from St Margaret’s Bus Station. It would take about 5-10 minutes.

The London Nail Shop Churchgate Leicester

It was an experience where the service was actually really good

Charlie Black

2025-07-18T15:47:00.0000000 2025-07-19T07:31:00.9930000

Wanted to share my experience today at London Nails on Churchgate in Leicester. Not because it was especially amazing but the staff worked really hard to accommodate my friends and I amidst a busy nail salon with a load of rude and ungrateful customers. We actually couldn’t believe how horrible the customers actually were bossing the young men around tasked with doing their nails and trying their best to offer a good service.

I ended up there quite by chance. I had the day off and the one thing I wanted to do was get my nails sorted out having had too many in fills the last three or four visits because I was short on time and needed my acrylic nails completely redoing.

I’d called both ladies I normally go to and both were fully booked all day and after driving around for about an hour visiting every nail shop in a two mile radius of my home, all packed found myself being forced to drive into Leicester city centre. I haven’t been into the centre of town for a while and I was really shocked by how run down and alien it looked. I honestly felt like I was a stranger in my own town. I parked in the Haymarket shopping centre and when four rowdy young men got in the lift with my friend and I, being loud and not speaking English, I did think what would we do if they attacked us. I don’t think I’ve ever felt so threatened in the town centre in the middle of the day before. I consciously covered my watch and wished I wasn’t carrying a designer handbag. I honestly felt threatened walking through the shopping centre and outside by the clock tower where all manner of tramps, hobos, drunks and religious preachers were gathered.

We walked up the high st with one aim in mind to sort out our nails but every shop we looked into was absolutely packed. Standing room only. The amount of customers for nails was unbelievable considering the majority of people walking around looked like they were more likely to rob you than be in search of a beauty treatment.

In the end we walked down Churchgate towards St Margaret’s Bus station, my friend said last resort there were a few nail bars down there we might just get lucky.

Don’t get me wrong London Nails is no frills but when we arrived there were several young guys all sitting doing nothing eager to get started on us both for manicures and pedicures.

We had absolutely no complaints about the service we received. And the staff who took care of us made every effort to accommodate all our specific requests about nail shape, length and personal preferences even though no one actually appeared to speak English the energy was good and everyone was extremely cordial, handing out sweets mid appointment and going over and above to make us happy.

We didn’t have the place to ourselves for long, it felt a bit like we could have just found ourselves down a back street in Hanoi Vietnam or Phnom Penh (Peong Penn) Cambodia, the music, the food smells, the small offering table with food, candles, incense until a mix of rude English people and people with accents and different types of clothing appeared and began demanding these boys jump to it.

The prices were extremely low, we paid £25 for pedicures and £35 for a full set of acrylic nails, services that usually cost £40 and £50 respectively so it was really good value and when we both left a £5 tip it clearly was such a rare occurrence the boys blatantly fluttered the notes under the noses of their colleagues in absolute glee and gratitude.

It was very sweet. And we were happy that our small gesture of appreciation had such a big impact.

Based on our expectation of what we thought we were in for the service provided was 5 star and the people who took care of us went over and above to make our visit exactly what we needed.

When we left we were both thanked and offered loyalty cards to encourage us to return.

If the ordeal to park in Leicester City centre and navigate the run down dirty streets wasn’t so visually grim and at times somewhat threatening, scary and unsettling, people crashed out and doped up in the middle of the day, we’d probably return to London Nails as the service we received for the price was really very good. It’s a shame the staff have to deal with the customers we saw during our visit. And that Leicester City Centre has slipped so far away from what I remember in just a few

short years.

Seeing the iconic Marks and Spencer building, Marks and Spencer has been in the same spot since I was born, still empty was very sad. And the businesses, shops and restaurants that have appeared didn’t encourage us to hang out and shop. As soon as the nails were done we got the hell out of there sadly.

The Mediterranean Deli and Farm Shop a spectacular food shop at Wistow Rural Centre

The Olive tree company is My new favourite fresh food shop

Charlie Black

2025-07-06T09:01:00.0000000 2025-07-06T09:33:47.8400000

If you’ve been following my snoops you’ll know I’ve been moaning a bit about the restaurants around Leicester going downhill. At the same time I have been searching for Sardinian Olive oil Obia to start making the food I long to eat myself and came across a perfect deli in Wistow Rural Centre which is a very cute independent sort of retail park with a difference next to Wistow Maze, a wonderful summer destination activity for adults and kids worth a visit.

I am going off on a tangent as I want to tell you about The Olive Tree Company.

The Mediterranean Deli and Farm Shop you have to go yourself. Seeing is believing.

Deli with a difference. It’s like being transported into an Italian small town on market day where everything you see, touch, smell make you hungry and inspired to cook. To make what you fancy. To give up going to restaurants looking for that home cooked made with love food you find on every street across the country in Italy.

the phone number is +44 (0)7806 683095 the email meddeliwistow@gmail.com

The staff are really friendly and will love to hear from you and whatever you are in search of; from the gourmet to the obsure, if they haven’t got it someone really passionate and knowledgable about food will be able to guide you in the right direction.

They sell everything from beautiful locally sourced fresh fruit and vegetables, the best olive oils in the world, what I was looking for from Obia in Sardinia to pastas, breads, cakes, pickles, olives, everything you could imagine for a sharing table of tasty delight.

It’s the kind of one of a kind deli you are not going find in most towns and cities across across the UK. In fact when I did stumble across it I couldn’t believe no one had told me about it. It’s better than good. It’s now my favourite place to buy food.

From the charcuterie to the baklava there’s truly something top notch for everyone. move over Fortnum and Mason you’ve got some local competition.

Have you ever tried homemade Turkish delight?

Volpo Lounge Fosse Park Leicester

No where left to go and eat

Charlie Black

2025-06-27T08:13:00.0000000 2026-04-05T15:09:59.2900000

When Volpo Lounge opened in Leicester’s Fosse Park shopping centre in February, 2022 everyone in my group of friends was excited, happy to have a somewhat independent restaurant in close promixity seemingly doing things differently, a more hippy chic London vibe in the stix, boardgames, tapas, fresh juices, recycled furniture and junk shop art with an extensive vegan vegetarian menu, the place was completely different to anything else within miles and we’d be once a week visitors.

Since then I don’t know if the chain has just got too big, if the lounges is now a franchise or what the hell has happened but the warm friendly staff have turned into unhappy to be at work servers and the food which used to be inventive, fresh and exciting has turned into well not that.

I went this week for the last time. Why, we honestly couldn’t think of anywhere else where the welcome is warm, the food fresh, veggie vegan options better than something slapped on the menu without thought just to say there you go, a sweet potato curry or another mushroom risotto.

I don’t want to be horrible but the place looked like it needed a good clean, tables that hadn’t been cleared, hostile service at the bar and bathrooms that would be avoided if you weren’t desperate.

I honestly don’t know what has happened. Maybe they just need a new manager but in three short years this place has gone from a regular fun brunch hangout where dogs are welcome and patio dining people watching available to somewhere you think Nah….. should anyone suggest it as an option again.

Empty Shelves Again At Asda

Anyone else worried where’s all the food gone?

Charlie Black

2025-06-23T08:03:00.0000000 2025-09-26T08:10:35.9770000

Update

Headline in the Guardian 26th June.

“Asda owners slump to near £600 million loss as sales fall”

_

For the last 12-18 months the press have hammered Asda for everything from dirty and messy shops, empty shelves, growing debts even a buyout and debt restructuring in 2021 couldn’t sort out, basically a supermarket chain in decline inspite of massive investment in TV ad campaigns with price Rollbacks at the centre and pandemic friendly face kids fitness expert Joe Wicks telling everyone “Rollbacks Back” to try and encourage shopper back in store amidst tough competition from European giants Aldi and Lidl and even competition at home from Sainsbury’s and Tesco.

Even if the expensive advertising campaigns are working when you get inside Asda, am I the only one noticing there is little food especially fresh fruit and vegetables which I have given up trying to find in any supermarket to be fair. Even in higher priced Waitrose and Marks and Spencer’s if there is anything to pick from, the quality is so poor, tasteless tomatoes, unripe sour pineapples, over ripe brown bananas, I’ve started going to my local farm shop instead.

_

The empty shelves are nothing new, I think we have just become accustomed to seeing vacant shelf space, supply chain disruption blamed on a whole host of global issues like hijacking of cargo vessels to global trade tariffs imposed by the US to wars in Ukraine, Gaza and now Iran not to mention all the civil unrest everywhere else around the globe and the food shortage issues all these things create.

Put on top of that a big black hole in a company like Asda’s balance sheet and it doesn’t take a genius to work out eventually there will be no food for a small island like the UK as well.

I am not suggesting everyone start going out and panic buying, merely pointing out the way things have been going for about 12-18 months now (shortages during the pandemic were blamed on logistics more so than other global events) it’s not going to be long before the things we are used to having like cheap convenience food from Asda just won’t be available anymore.

I’ve even noticed in my local Waitrose, not once or twice but on going for months, broken fridges and freezers (at least that’s what the staff say) as the explanation why the coolers and freezers are empty. And yet they are not getting them fixed. It doesn’t make sense.

What does make sense is food shortages and rising prices due to war elsewhere which is set to get worse not better as global leaders make matters worse not better spending billions of taxpayer money on blowing people up in the name of keeping us safe.

The way I look at it, a 25kg bag of flour currently costs $500 in Gaza because there isn’t any food.

War costs us all and the repercussions are felt for years sometimes decades later. Food rationing did not stop in the UK until July 4th, 1954 when World War Two ended in 1945 9 years earlier.

For me it’s really easy to see why we are seeing empty shelves in the supermarket as normal. We are used to it.

And unless our global leaders get their acts together, stop bombing everywhere and allow people to get on with their lives in peace it’s not going to be very long unless we are growing our own food here in the UK, the choice, ease, convenience and affordability of food will be a luxury few can even afford.

Kibworth House Hotel renaming this place Fawlty Towers

There’s a reason we were the only diners

Charlie Black

2025-06-12T11:37:00.0000000 2025-06-12T12:23:10.9970000

I am going to start with the positives at the Kibworth House Hotel, located between Lutterworth in Leicestershire and Market Harbourgh as it’s usually a bad sign when you arrive for lunch at a hotel, not just a restaurant, a hotel and there’s not a single person in the dining room except you.

It is also the site of the Kibworth House theatre, a small theatre, a wonderful unique outdoor theatre experience in Leicestershire.

We’d been interested to try the hotel for lunch after going to see Singin In the Rain there and having a really good night.

First of all it has to be said when you are shown into The Orangery Restaurant, a massive stunning wrought iron Victorian conservatory it was really impressive and if it was full of lunch guests enjoying fabulous food it would have been magnificent.

Sadly the building was the only thing awe inspiring, although the branded bottles of distilled water that came to the table when we sat down was a nice touch.

The wine we ordered a bottle of white arrived not chilled and without an ice bucket. The wine waiter didn’t seem to understand the issue so we quickly changed our minds and opted for red wine by the glass instead.

We were already off to not the best start.

The food was quite nice, we had soup and a duck mousse to start both homemade followed by a salmon dish and a pea and shallot ravioli pasta dish, a quinoa salad with roasted vegetables, and a British beef pie at £18 we were told was a house speciality.

The menu is quite sophisticated, the starters priced around £10 the main courses around £20 so you are looking at £150 plus for 4 people without wine and although the food was perfectly fine you definitely need more than a beautiful historic venue to make spending that much money worth it and to have a good experience.

The waiter who served us was new and bless them even though they were chatty and very pleasant they spent more time telling us their life story than actually getting on with the job in hand.

In the end we just decided to chalk it up to experience and never return, putting this place down to a hotel with so much potential but clearly in a tough market was struggling to get anything going, perhaps more focused on a great wedding venue at the weekends than anything else.

After our experience I did try to speak to the hotel manager and after we were told they weren’t available by a sulky person with attitude on reception, found out who ran things. I discovered the hotel is privately owned and wrote a detailed email of our experience and everything that had happened, not to complain as such but to give our feedback and suggest what happened to us was maybe the reason they didn’t have any customers.

It fell on deaf ears. I didn’t even get a reply.

So to sum up.

The Orangery restaurant is an absolutely beautiful Victorian conservatory. The food OK sounds fancier on the menu than in reality though. The service, a calamity but we felt sorry for the waiter who was very eager but had no experience. And a wine waiter who was completely clueless.

To top it all off senior management and an owner who is clearly detached.

East Midlands Designer Outlet Mall

To go or not to go, that’s the question?

Charlie Black

2025-05-08T16:15:00.0000000 2025-05-12T15:51:48.9830000

Mcarthur Glen is a retail shopping import from Europe with retail shopping malls all over the place, Netherlands, France, Italy Canada, Spain, Austria so I was excited to visit the East Midlands Designer Outlet in Nottingham to take a look. It was a extremely easy to find located at junction 28 just off the M1 motorway.

It’s marketed as a designer outlet, designer brands offering stock at discounted prices. And I was expecting the bargains and offering to be better than it was.

There’s a massive Marks and Spencer’s shop and a massive Nike shop if you like those brands, neither really appealed to me. I wouldn’t drive to browse M&S when we’ve got one in Fosse Park in Leicester.

The best shop I thought was the Calvin Klein shop where they did have a good selection of jeans and Calvin Klein lingerie, their basic cotton pants and bra tops I quite liked with about a 40% saving so you can find discounted Calvin Klein underwear.

The sunglasses hut had a really amazing selection of designer sunglasses and not old styles, the prices I thought were not outlet prices. I looked at a pair I liked way too expensive for me, around £400.

Loads of the shops, Yankee Doodle candles, Crew Clothing, Polo Association are not my style and there is a Claire’s, a Clark’s, a Cabury’s all the Cs as well as a Denby pottery shop and a Hallmark cards, does anybody buy cards anymore?

I stopped buying cards a few years ago, preferring to save the trees and send a digital message instead.

We were hoping to have lunch and the restaurant food options are limited if you want to sit down. The only restaurant we saw was Wagamama or cafeteria style cups of tea and coffee, sandwiches, scones, soup, you know the kind of place very noisy serve yourself, find a table and clean up after yourself when you are finished.

We opted for the later.

We didn’t go with anything specific in mind to buy, both my friends and I had budgets around £100, one shopped in Calvin Klein, the other in Molton Brown, I didn’t actually buy anything.

It might be better for men as I did notice a Boss store that did look very well merchandised and a Barbour outlet where you could save a few quid if you were in the market for a new wax jacket.

I thought it could have been definitely more exciting. It feels like there’s not a lot of cohesion, like they don’t know who their audience is and so the shops are very mixed, not just by brand and what they sell but also some shops are well merchandised while others more like a load of unsold stock the brands just want rid of. If you have ever been to an outlet mall in America it’s nothing like that.

If you are at a loose end and fancied a day out it’s somewhere to go and have a look around but not sure I’d be motivated to return unless it was at the request of someone visiting the Midlands who really wanted to go.

The White Company Home Shop Too Squeaky Clean For Me

Lifestyle homeware ethical B corporation

Charlie Black

2025-04-09T16:21:00.0000000 2025-04-11T12:48:43.6370000

Not a shop I would normally ever go into. I can't afford it for it start that said I wanted to buy something special for Mother's day, I had 15 minutes to kill before my eyelash appointment around the corner with Florence Beauty where Paige and her lovely sister Lisa, provide an incredible service in their female led beauty salon at 20 Coventry Road in the heart of Market harborough, another snoop.

When I entered the lovely shop I wasn't dressed particularly smartly, it wasn't busy and I was immediately approached and asked if I needed help, normal I know in a shop although I did get a sense they thought I might be a shoplifter there again it might be just me.

The first thing you notice is the scent, they sell a range of made in the UK candles and room scent and if the fragrance in store is anything to go by it did smell pretty nice.

Not surprising the theme through out the shop is white, The White Company, and the marketing images and branding aligns with their B Corporation status clean, mininal and simple.

If you like a simple neutral natural aesthetic you'll like the White Company.

The best sheets I've ever slept on were Ferguson irish Linens I inherited, weird I know, who knew the best sheets in the world can cost up to 500 quid a piece.

The white company aren't as expensive as this but don't expect to see much change out of £500 for a king duvet, sheet and 4 pillow cases.

I bought a gorgeous Lyra throw for my nan it was £56 in the sale reduced from £80 she gets chilly in the summer and wanted a lighter than wool blanket for the summer. loved the fact its made in india not made in china and the handle of 100% cotton cosy knitted yarn was really lovely.

More to the point my Nan was absolutely over the moon with the lyra blanket in mink, I bought the small for £56 but they do do a bigger one for £95

Throw Size Available in:

Lyra Throw

Large Throw: W140cm x L200cm

Small Throw: W130cm x L170cm

The throw clearly labelled Made in India from pure cotton, knitted and designed ethically which does create a huggable soft feeling inside too.

The lady who served me was very pleasant.

I did glance briefly at the clothes. All white, smock type garments, floaty, plain, not my style and eye wateringly expensive, the styles make me think of Danish or Icelandic style.

And the range doesn't stop at bedding they have extended to cushions, bathroon accessories, towels of course, childrens, beauty and spa products, body lotions, potions and creams. They have even gone into into and out door furniture this is mainly available on line.

In short it's a lifestyle brand where everything is clean and beautiful, comfortable and luxurious.

The lyra throw is the perfect present. I think I might just be a little too dirty otherwise for the White Company if you know what I mean. Untidy. I'm more of a Marmite spillage on the duvet kinda girl than super douper perfect clean and perfect tidy.

It Felt Like A Whole New Head Of Hair with L’ Oreal Elvive Glycolic Gloss

For anyone with over processed hair

Charlie Black

2025-03-31T14:55:00.0000000 2025-04-03T11:00:28.8000000

If like me girls you are over friendly with hair bleach and you’ve passed the point your hair is never coming back until you grow it out and chop it off get to boots and buy yourselves a bottle of L’ Oreal Elvive Glycolic Gloss.

The cost, about £17 steep I know, but don’t worry about that, it’ll be worth it.

All you do is smooth this product over your hair after conditioner, leave it for 5 minutes and then rinse off.

The results particularly for my dry damaged mop were marked.

I wouldn’t recommend using it every wash as you do get a bit of product build up after three or four washes. That said the condition, shine and general appearance of healthier hair you do get.

I reckon if I use this for the next three months without any bleach my hair will be back to normal. L’ Oreal Elvive Glycolic Gloss is a good option to get you through whilst growing out a too much heat or too much bleach problem.

FYI L’Oreal is not cruelty free unfortunately. And probably contains micro plastics. This is not something brands disclose so couldn’t find out. Skin safe reviewed the product and found it to be 82% paraben free.

I’ve put a shopping link in for Boots but you can buy it all over the place.

LCB Depot Creative Space

A space for creatives free to use meeting rooms and FREE COMEDY

Charlie Black

2025-02-20T10:14:00.0000000 2025-02-20T10:50:35.5100000 Event date: 06/02/2025 10:00 - 22/02/2025 23:30 Export event

If you haven’t heard of LCB Depot, home of the Leicester Comedy Festival, an event which began in 1994 now celebrating it’s 31st year gaining profile for comedy talent from all across the UK and wait for it, most shows are either FREE or “Pay what you want” and the quality is as good some say as the much more famous Edinburgh Festival. All backed and paid for by Leicester City Council.

The event, Jokes on Us, free comedy festival centred at LCB Depot has grown to incorporate 23 venues across Leicestershire and a program of over 40 events between 6th and 22nd February.

If you need a pick me up on a budget (or Free) Still time to enjoy the last of the events scheduled for 2025 including the hilarious Ryan Mold on Saturday 22nd February at Grays Cafe at 2.00pm. The show lasts one hour.

If comedy’s not your thing the LCB Depot is a community hub anyone can use. And you can guarantee you’ll get good vibes and even better service from the staff at Grays Cafe, the internal food and drink offering where the homemade pumpkin and banana cake is good enough to take on any cake from a posher establishment.

For creatives, entrepreneurs or anyone trying to get something going this is a marvellous local resource where you’ll not only find like minded positive people but a facility that has space available for your idea, event, or community initiative.

The phone number is 0116 261 6800

And their email is info@lcbdepot.co.uk

Give them a call and see if they can help.

Lutterworth News

But it could be any corner shop or local news store

Charlie Black

2025-02-02T11:28:00.0000000 2025-02-02T11:58:05.8330000

I have two amazing corner shops I absolutely love to support. There are thousands of them across the UK. Open all hours, they even made a TV show about this little big thing we all use and rely upon probably without giving much thought to the people behind the counter working so hard to touch every customer.

I don’t know the name of the man who serves me at Lutterworth News; he always welcomes me like an old friend and even though we exchange few words, English is his second language he always has my brand of cigarettes ready and has even started stocking the exact cigarette papers my fella uses because we were struggling to find them elsewhere.

I’ve noticed the shelves in Aldi and Waitrose in Lutterworth where I do my grocery shopping are getting more and more sparse and I’ve found myself picking up other things at the convenience store like loo roll and tea bags because they were out of stock or sold out elsewhere.

Times are a changing when good service, gratitude and a genuine friendly welcome out way the cheapest price and the most television advertising.

Thank you Lutterworth News for your kindness and exceptional service.

WH Smith’s

New store in Leicester’s Fosse Park opens admist gloom

Charlie Black

2025-01-29T12:39:00.0000000 2025-01-29T13:20:54.5570000

Have you noticed the big WHSmiths at Fosse Park Leicester has moved down to a new store next to Moss (the suit hire people) It’s a big new space that needs some customers, some love, some support as WHSmith CEO group chief executive Carl Cowling announces plans to sell it’s 500 store high street proposition.

It has been largely blamed on the new Labour government and Rachel Reeves national insurance hikes pushing the historic British retailer over the edge.

In the BBC it reads,

“Julie Palmer, partner at Begbies Traynor, said the latest update from the retailer "demonstrates why WH Smith has pulled the plug on its ailing UK High Street operations after more than 200 years."

"It would seem that Labour's fateful decision to hit businesses with an even greater tax bill may have been the final nail in the coffin for WH Smith,"

It was also announced in the Evening Standard (The Standard @thelondonstandard) this week WHSMITHS are set to

close 17 of it’s stores across the UK by May to focus on it’s travel and travel essentials offering which is currently producing 85% of its revenue.

I do still use WHSMITH obviously more than a lot of other people. I guess our need for stationary and school supplies has diminished and book tokens are a thing of the past.

My worry, if I happen to need a stapler, a compass, a sticky label, an ink cartridge, glue, now Wilkinson’s is no more where do i go? It used to be the Post Office (let’s not go there for the moment) ironically many post offices 195 in total are now housed in WHSmith stores. Bosses at WHSmith say the sale will not affect the post offices side of the business housed within them. Not sure how though if the stores are going.

WHSmith with its 233 year history has about 500 stores remaining across the UK. I fear by 2026 another long standing British company will be no more.

Here is the list of the 17 stores across the UK for the chop.

January, 2025

Bournemouth, Dorset

Luton, Bedfordshire

February, 2025

Basingstoke, Hampshire

Bournemouth (Winton), Dorset

Rhyl, Denbighshire

Bolton, Greater Manchester

March, 2025

Accrington, Lancashire

April, 2025

Halstead, Essex

Halesowen, West Midlands

Diss, Norfolk

Newport, South Wales

Haverhill, Suffolk

May, 2025

Stockton, County Durham

Oldham, Greater Manchester

TBC

Orpington, South London

The Three Swans Hotel Market Harborough

AA 3 star hotel

Charlie Black

2025-01-04T15:12:00.0000000 2025-01-04T15:33:35.2670000

Who doesn’t love a ploughman’s and a pint in a country pub warming up by a roaring fire after a brisk walk?

My brother and I had lunch at the Three Swans. It’s had a make over in the last few years and a friend had told me the outdoor court yard adjacent to the bar was really great vibes. I think it must have been in the summer as I didn’t see heaters or blankets.

We ate inside in the bar at the back. There isn’t a separate restaurant. The old fashioned pub part is the snug at the front on the street.

The makeover is corporate. Perfectly adequate but I did wonder if some of the old world charm had been lost in the process.

The staff were friendly and attentive. It wasn’t massively busy which may have been an indication about the food during the busier holiday period.

The food was disappointing. I ordered the bangers and mash and the mash was lumpy and stone cold in the middle making me suspect the microwave.

The jalapeño poppers weren’t fantastic either and the red pepper hummus dish my brother ordered was exactly that a big bowl of red pepper hummus which could have come out of a supermarket plastic tub.

It’s the type of hotel that has printed marketing on the tables selling 2 for 1 special desserts or cocktail lists with pictures and umbrellas.

Would be a good central venue for an event as they have meeting rooms and conference facilities at the back. Not sure we’d go again for food without a complete menu rethink.