Fosse Park Shopping Centre Leicester Is Crying Out For Better Restaurant Dining Options

Zizzis, Nandos and The Volpo Lounge Hit Rock Bottom

Lily Blacker

2026-04-05T11:13:00.0000000 2026-04-05T15:05:58.0970000

We are always trying to come up interesting and delicious in equal measure when it comes to food around leicester.

Fosse park shopping centre is an obvious draw, the idea there’s plenty of parking and some choice except, the big chains we don’t really rate, Zizzi’s and Nando’s may be popular with lots of people but the couple of times I’ve been the food was shocking and the service worse, young kids serving with little or no experience.

Stuck for an idea for an early dinner we decided to give the Volpo Lounge another go. I haven’t been for a while to be fair put off by a couple of bad meals and there is a lot to like about this chain. It’s a hippy serve yourself vibe which I don’t mind although the people I went with would have preferred waiter service, when you decide you fancy something else you have to get up and go back to the bar to order something else or get another drink.

They have a self service water station and dog bowls and dog treats for your pouch. As a dog owner I like a dog friendly place.

There’s a full bar and they do offer freshly squeezed juice which is unusual for Leicester.

The menu and the food does seem to have gone even further down hill. My friends struggled to find something to eat. One ordered a couple of the tapas, the prawns and something else she didn’t rate, the other a flatbread with hummus and falafel, I had the veggie beyond meat burger, and my other friend had the Buddha grain bowl with aubergines, Persian grains and tender stem broccoli.

There is a lot of choice on the menu so it should have been easy to find something that appeals and there are quite a few vegetarian and vegan choices, something else that in the past has set this place apart.

Sadly all four of us, all ordering something different were unhappy with the food and at between £12 and £16 a plate for main courses we won’t be rushing back.

We obviously aren’t alone as on a Thursday night and a holiday weekend a place that is normally standing room only was pretty dead. It’s a large space so with only a few tables occupied and extremely loud music which also made it difficult to hear ourselves.

And the wine we ordered was undrinkable, very acidic so all in all not the best experience at the Volpo Lounge.

Not sure if it’s the strains on the hospitality sector, minimum wage increases or increased food costs that have caused this place to slip, a few years ago when it first opened I was in here a couple of times a month. Sadly it’s no longer the same energetic well run restaurant serving really great food and wine.

There used to be a cafe slash restaurant in the department store high end clothes shop Flannels but that’s closed and the couple of times I’ve been to Everards across the road it was more beer tours and bus trips than decent food and wine.

The one thing Fosse Park really needs is a decent independent restaurant where you can grab a cocktail and a nice lunch or dinner.

If you are going to shop I’d recommend you find somewhere else to eat.

The Tithe Barn in Cosby, Leicestershire is the best breakfast spot for dining Al Fresco

Inside can be a cramped and noisy at the weekends but tough to beat the glorious outdoor patio

Lily Blacker

2026-03-17T15:47:00.0000000 2026-03-17T16:55:52.0400000

Opening Hours at The Tithe Barn: Monday – Friday 9am – 4pm, Saturday – Sunday 9am – 5pm.

We haven’t tried the afternoon tea served daily and not sure if vegetarian/vegan options are available but it did look very nice at £19.95 per person with coffee or tea and this can be upgraded to prosecco if you wish for £29.95 per person. You also need to be aware you can order off the breakfast menu all day but the lunch menu is only available from 12pm - 4pm. That goes for afternoon tea too available from 12pm - 3pm and you need to book in advance, giving 48 hours notice.

It’s fair to say the Tithe Barn is more cafe than restaurant but a much nicer cafe than your run of the mill greasy spoon. It feels more like a poolside restaurant you’d experience in a hotel except with no pool.

The sun came out and the age old question of where can you eat breakfast outside in Leicester came up.

The Tithe Barn in Cosby has probably the best outdoor patio, lovely teak garden furniture and big umbrellas if you like shade. There are pubs of course but these are not really known for breakfast, so the Tithe Barn is a good choice if you want a full English or some tasty avocado on toast Al fresco. It’s located close to Blaby and Countesthorpe and about 10 miles from Lutterworth.

I used to go a lot but then the service and food went downhill a bit so I haven’t been for about a year. That said we decided to return on a glorious day as we wanted to breakfast outside and it really is the best place to get that on holiday dining outside experience on a sunny day.

It’s a cute place with quite a bit of history, actually a converted Tithe Barn hence the name so interesting to check out if you’ve never been. The Vaulted ceiling in the barn is quite special but you do need to book, especially if you want to sit inside as it’s small and they only have a limited number of covers available.

The menu is not extensive, but they do offer a good selection of cakes and pastries courtesy of Hambletons bakery so if you don’t fancy breakfast it’s a good choice for coffee and a cake.

Leicester isn’t renowned for the 5 star dining experience but the Tithe Barn does have something unique in its quaint village setting and outdoor dining experience.

They used to serve really delicious veggie sausages, then they changed supplier so we stopped going quite so frequently.

Pleased to say on this visit the sausages were much better and very enjoyable so I am sure we’ll be going back a lot more during the summer months.

The indoor seating is quite small and compact, it seats 36 people and it does get busy and quite noisy, the tables are quite tightly packed but if you don’t mind this it is one of the nicer higher end places to visit for food and drinks. The tithe barn does have a full bar service, great for breakfast, lunch and at a push very early dinner at the weekend 4pm. Bear in mind it closes at 5pm Saturday and Sunday and 4pm during the week.

Mockingbird Raw Hydration Drink The Offer Got Me Hooked And Now It’s £4.40

Annoyingly When Every Other Mockingbird Drink is on offer except the one I like

Lily Blacker

2026-02-20T08:14:00.0000000 2026-02-20T09:27:11.8300000

This snoop is half RAVE, in love with this healthy juice cocktail, half RANT because the marketing trickery means I can’t get another one. Arghh, you get us hooked Waitrose with an offer, (I know that’s point but I’d rather not know how much I like the healthy drink I can’t really afford) we fall in love then when we return to buy another every other Mockingbird option is on offer except the one you want. Do you bite the bullet and buy anyway? The marketing incentive has worked, I love the product, want to buy again, but just can’t do it. I have to wait until it’s back on offer. And even though every other flavour is now on offer, do I try a different one, no, in my annoyance at not being able to buy the one I want I abandon the brand completely for something completely different.

Vegan friendly and cold pressed to maintain nutritional value I would never probably have purchased this juice except that the price tag was slashed from a staggering £4.40 in Waitrose to a budget friendly £1.80.

I was going for the slightly less healthy Waitrose own brand banana coconut smoothie at £2.00 for 750ml so the same size bottle and 93kcal per serving when confronted with the red label special offer of the Mockingbird Raw Hydration drink, a pineapple, coconut lime and aloe Vera combo, I know a bit unusual but as well as the cold pressed juice it contains chicory root acting as a powerful prebiotic (inulin). It contains a variety of antioxidants, vitamins, minerals and fibre that boost gut health, improves digestion, helps regulate blood sugar, and supports weight management. In addition all these essential vitamins in one single serving Vitamin C, Vitamin D3, Vitamin B1 (Thiamin) B6, and Vitamin B12. It is designed to provide 100% of your daily intake of these vitamins in a specific serving size.

What does it taste like. Well it’s not sweet so if you like a sweet juice it may not be for you, but I loved it and will definitely be purchasing again. You can taste the pineapple juice for sure but the other ingredients give it a mixed juice cocktail more interesting and exciting than just a standard pineapple juice. Difficult to describe because I’ve never had anything like it before. I like it in the morning served chilled. It’s refreshing, flavourful and tropical. The kind of healthy juice cocktail you’d get in a 5 star resort or spa.

Two thumbs up from me. Way better than innocent.

Chef Youcef Crookies Bakery Countesthorpe Leicester Makes Notable Cakes

Small homemade bakery and patisserie well worth a visit to support small and special

Lily Blacker

2026-02-08T16:36:00.0000000 2026-02-08T17:04:16.6370000

A Local Baker With Super Handmakes Cakes Worth A Snoop

These are the best snoops to write. A little gift that when the recipient stumbles across it you know it will make them smile knowing someone they don’t even know, a random customer loved their work and wanted to share the experience. There’s something really lovely about any individual brave enough to rent a small space in a small village and begin selling. Bam. Just like that word begins to spread about the new bakery in village whether the cakes are beautiful or no so, people begin to talk.

It’s how I found out about Youcef at Crookies Bakery, a friend told me about him at a dinner out and encouraged me to go and try his cakes.

When I entered the shop I was greeted with enthusiasm and gratitude, the bakers energy is infectious and it was a pleasure to be in his small shop as he guided me through the variety of cakes, pastries and cookies available and all made by him.

The strawberry tarts I purchased, with freshly made creme anglaise were delicious and much better than anything you would find in the supermarket, not expensive either for handmade and a very generous size too.

I also tried his pan au chocolat and they too were delicate, buttery, crunchy on the outside and chewy in the centre so I’ll definitely be back to try something else, and sample more of the delicious handmade treats.

I am always inspired to see individuals turn their talents into business and I hope to help spread the word about Jacob and his cakes with a little snoop.

Halcyon Kitchen Make one thing Gordon Ramsay Said People Will Return For

Halcyon Kitchen has a dish you’ll come back for time and time again

Lily Blacker

2026-01-14T11:05:00.0000000 2026-01-14T14:21:28.4170000

HALCYON Kitchen

There are lots of places with a full English on the menu but for anyone looking for a more London style brunch experience in Leicester then Halcyon Kitchen on Queens Road, Leicester, walking distance from Victoria Park is a wonderful option.

It’s a modern, stylish, cafe restaurant with shared long dining tables and an adjacent comfy space for coffee, a pastry and a watch of the news or sports. The big screen TV is not a distraction for dinners as it’s in the next room and never on loudly.

The thing I love is the homemade avocado smash they serve with their breakfast and the super crispy not greasy hash brown which I don’t think are homemade as they are perfectly shaped but always cooked to perfection. I once heard Gordon Ramsey say you have to have one thing on your menu people will return for even if it’s something basic like a cheese on toast or bubble and squeak. halcyon kitchen have done this with their avocado smash, it’s got heat from chilli, floral flavour from coriander, the zing from lime and is totally delicious, home cooking comfort I return for.

I used to be around the Stoneygate area much more often and so I was in there all the time, I like to eat Breakfast, a big breakfast, it sets you up for the day and Halcyon Kitchen is one of the few places in Leicester that does a more modern take on the greasy fry up and a mug of builders tea, which is available if you want it, in a stylish, earthern ware cup and saucer.

I love the fresh smoothies, made with or without milk and no one looks at you funny if you ask for a dairy substitute or a herb tea. I digress but I popped into a greasy spoon in Wigston for a cup of herb tea on the go and left empty handed, it was Tetleys or nothing. So to people outside Leicester, UK this snoop might sound a little weird or precious where coffee brunch hubs like Our Public or Gails Bakery are on every corner but around the Queens Road Stoneygate area there’s nothing like Halcyon Kitchen except maybe Cue on Allandale Road which is Halal. Halcyon Kitchen is not.

Aside from Breakfast Brunch where the other options include homemade oatmeal, fruit plates, granola, pastries, croissants, whole meal toast generally healthier choices and more international cosmopolitan menu they have a proper pizza oven and the pizzas are lovely Italian style well cooked homemade pizza dough, not soggy with a variety of toppings. A few places do have pizza ovens to be fair in the neighbourhood, Morton’s Bistro in Gilmorton comes to mind but the pizzas at Halcyon kitchen are stand out tasty, another reason to go if breakfast isn’t your thing.

It’s a family run place so always find the service warm and welcoming and they are quick too so you won’t find yourself hanging around waiting for your food. You can be in and out for breakfast in 45 minutes, something I really like too especially when working and time is of the essence.

You can make a reservation, it does get busy especially at the weekends but usually not necessary if you are happy to join in the spirit of the place and share a table.

The crowd is usually young professionals, dog people, it’s dog friendly, student and university types, leggings and exercise clothing wearers and mums groups particularly in the mid morning time slot. Oh and visitors, I’ve heard a few different languages being spoken in Halcyon Kitchen, it’s a real eclectic mix of people enjoying the food and good vibes.

KH Holistics Calm Magnesium Balm; Can’t sleep - this holistic remedy will help

Handmade Magnesium Balm Helps your feet and helps you sleep

Lily Blacker

2025-12-18T09:06:00.0000000 2025-12-20T08:51:49.0300000

About 8 months ago I woke up unable to move my right arm. The pain was excruciating in my shoulder and could not think about fastening a bra. Getting dressed and undressed became a dreaded daily task. Not really one for going to the doctor, whilst medical science has produced some fantastic pharmaceutical breakthroughs I don’t really trust big pharma companies these days and prefer a more holistic approach to healing so with the help of dr. Google and speaking to my hairdresser who had experienced the same problem and been visiting a physical therapist, I self diagnosed a rotator cuff injury and set about a routine of gentle daily exercise, a combination of yoga and stretches my hairdresser shared from her physical therapy sessions.

It took about 4 or 5 months but eventuallly it did get better. Then the worst thing possible happened, it started on the other side, except this time the pain was worse and started waking me up at night. Every night. I continued with the same exercises, it felt like it was improving and then it worsened. I tried Ibuprofen and paracetamol for a couple of days neither made any difference so I began looking for a herbal homeopathic remedy that may help.

This is how I discovered Kelly at KH Holistics in Leicester, making Magnesium Balm with camomile and lavender from home. IT’s an all natural remedy made from pure magnesium flakes and essential oils. A small independent female led business and growing brand sold at local markets and fairs and luckily for me by my local beauty therapy practitioner Amanda at Leyton beauty in Countesthorpe, Leicester.

The calm magnesium balm I purchased costs £20.

The advice for use is massage the balm into your feet at night, focusing around the ball of the foot, the Reiki point for the shoulder. I began the recommendation.

I will say here, I also massaged directly into the injured area, a mistake. This made things worse and stopped using the balm altogether for about a week until things settled down.

However I did return to the foot massage only and I have to say, even though the shoulder is not completely better yet, the sleep interruption has subsided so of course I am feeling much better about the shoulder and managing the discomfort and exercise routine much better.

The calming balm is not greasy, massages into the skin very easily and smells absolutely divine. Even without an injury it would be amazing for anyone with any kind of sleep disturbance or if you just want to deal with ugly dry cracked feet. The improvement in the skin is marked just from a couple of weeks use.

There are also other handmade products Kelly offers so if you are like me looking for homeopathy and want to support a small independent local made in the UK brand I can recommend the Magnesium balm. It has certainly helped me to sleep with a very dodgy shoulder and got me back on the road to recovery.

Anyone suffering in the same way who wants the best exercises to get their shoulders working should try these. don’t expect miracles over night you have to push through the pain and not give up. It going to take time.

Stand 8-12 inches away from a wall (depending how long your arms are) and walk your hands up and down, I count to about 14, stretching the painful shoulder as far as you can stand. I do it three times before I go to bed. Then I sit on the edge of the bed and squeeze my shoulder blades down and together, hold for 10 counts and release. I do this 5-6 times. And then I take my elbow of the damaged shoulder in my hand and gently pull it across my body as far as I can stand. Not pulling it high or low, parallel for 10 counts and release. All the time breathing deeply. I do this 5-6 times. Like I mentioned progress has been very slow but it is getting better.

Pondering Podcasting About Interiors - Paragon Creative Studios Can Help Me Locally in Leicester, UK

Two Podcasting Studios in Leicester, One in Countesthorpe and One In The Town Centre

Lily Blacker

2025-12-12T11:47:00.0000000 2025-12-17T16:32:07.3070000

I’ve been looking into creating a podcast to market my creativity and passion for interior design and soft furnishings and sewing skills, cushions, slipcovers, and curtain making, seasonal decorating services for businesses and Christmas tree decorating and photography and have discovered Paragon Creative Studios And Leicester Podcast Studio as two places who may be able to help me bring my vision to life.

There are two creative studios in Leicester I have found to help anyone looking for technical help producing a podcast.

It is something you can do yourself with some technical expertise and a basic smartphone camera microphone set up. Although some apps are simpler than others to use and get to grips with, Detail was the simplest podcasting app I found, apps like GarageBand for podcasting sit in the middle of difficulty and learning curve with professional broadcasting apps like adobe Audition needing a good deal of time, dedication and budget to master.

If you have a small budget to produce your podcast and are based in Leicester you may want to consider speaking to Chase at Leicester Podcast studio on Charles Street who was highly recommended by a good friend I trust or also on my door step there is a friendly local business Paragon Creative Studios, Countesthorpe Leicester who I have spoken to a couple of times on the phone and have also listened to a few of the podcasts they have produced, on Spotify one of which a sales training expert Rob Spence The Sales Circle which is extremely well produced. The difficulty when recording a podcast your self is getting clear quality audio, no feedback and the sound on this podcast produced by Paragon Creative Studios is 1st class.

I have not booked their studio yet in Countesthorpe, if you want to film as well, you may want to use different furniture (especially for a creative person like me selling interiors) as their set up looks a little bit dated and very basic. The staging options at Leicester Podcast studio are much nicer and more sophisticated.

You can book the studio and equipment you need for £40 per hour, a couple of hundred for the day during the week. As I understand it they will deliver an edited finished product to you. Will upload it to your hosting platform of choice Buzzsprout we’ve looked into and they get it onto Spotify, Apple and all the other sites delivering Podcasts. There are quite a few but it seems relatively straightforward once you have your RSS feed ready to share.

Paragon Creative Studios do also offer social media promotion services for additional fees if you need them. This is probably something most people could tackle best themselves.

Not sure yet what the total investment would be for a finished podcast series. I have estimated to go down the produced studio route for a six 20 minute podcast series it would cost around £500 - £600 with two studio days included.

I am probably going to have a go myself, rope my husband in as chief grip initially for free first, and practise working on my format and presenting my content without too many ums and ahs before investing. And see how the audio sounds. I’ve been told this is the big sticker doing it yourself, you’ll get better recording quality using microphones and working in a room with soft furnishings and carpets (something I have in abundance at home) as bare rooms create a lot of bounce and reverberation. I think it’s good to be prepared and have a practise before making a large investment as the key to any great podcast is the presenting talent and the content at the end of the day.

However It’s great to know there’s a couple of friendly small businesses with the expertise on the doorstep should I decide to invest and use a studio and experienced producer for my podcast.

Baileys Barn is an interior designers Haven

Lily Blacker

2025-11-25T09:25:00.0000000 2025-11-25T09:48:23.0670000

Baileys Barn has shabby chic home interiors hand curated by Neil and the Bailey family tucked away in a corner of Wistow Rural Centre. It’s near the entrance but easy to miss for first timers. Make a point of visiting you will not be disappointed.

I love home interiors, textiles, soft furnishings and the main stream offering in high street stores is all the same for me and not the best quality. Why I like to shop at Baileys Barn an off shoot from Baileys Garden centre, a super cute interiors store which reflects the modern English country vibe.

It’s Christmas at Baileys Barn at Wistow Rural Centre and there’s not a better time to visit for me if you want to see something hand picked and good quality. This gorgeous home interiors emporium where you will find one of a kind pieces and beautiful furniture made to order goes up a level at this time of year, no better way to merchandise Christmas than in a store full of gorgeous furniture and homeware accessories from lamps, to mirrors to picture frames.

My absolute favourite space at Baileys Barn, a family run business for over 26 years is the rug room, I love a handmade carpet, everything about them from the smell of the vegetable dyes to the feel of a Persian carpet underfoot. Whether it’s an Afghan or morrocan Kilim rug you are searching for to finish off your kitchen or something more luscious under foot Baileys have an excellent selection in a variety of sizes to work into your space.

The prices are around the same as say John Lewis, so not cheap but I think good value for shop for life pieces. This is not disposable home furnishings you keep for a couple of years and then change up.

You can tell why this business has endured for almost three decades. It’s a wonderful place to have a nosey and browse, get creative inspiration even if you are not quite ready to shop.

Two Old Goats Celebrate Three Years In The Town Centre Market Harborough

Success story for cafe owners, South African Alison and her best friend Clare

Lily Blacker

2025-11-20T11:45:00.0000000 2025-11-20T17:32:11.2270000

Two Old goats in Market Harborough started life in the Eco Village which I love. My daughter used to go to the performing arts centre so we’d always go in there afterwards on a Saturday for pick and mix sweets, to support the grocery store where the free fridge is, something I love in Market Harborough and to browse the wonderful antique traders (no longer there) so we often grabbed a bite from Two old goats, always fresh, hearty and homemade food.

A few years ago they had a big move, right into the heart of Market Harborough on the corner of Church st right opposite St Dionysus and their tables outside provide a stunning view of the steeple, if you get there early and can secure a seat.

Our favourite stop is upstairs where’s there’s a more room. The decor is stylish, homey and personal and the air is filled with chatter, real family vibes, a cross section of locals and visitors (the town attracts a lot of people from other places because of it's eclectic mix of independent shops) and local plants cross marketed for Susie Lickman at Windowsills plants. I love the women supporting some local vibes you get at Two Old Goats, everyone being warm and friendly, helping each other out.

Even the drinks offerings, along with Barista style delicious strong coffee are companies supporting others, social conscience companies like Lemonaid, who offer four or five different fruity flavours of fresh lemonade with part of the profit helping community causes.

The food, delicious homemade pies and pasties, stews and soups and their signature Pea and smashed avocado on toast for anyone in search of a healthy, vegetable alternative.

Although for the meat eaters two old goats have not gone all Birkenstocks and granola. They offer  fine full English any countryman or farmer would be proud to sit down and devour.

Love to support this growing community focussed business. Pop in and say hello when you are passing. You are sure to receive a very warm welcome.

Prices are very reasonable. Expect to pay a tenner per person. Hours 8am to 4pm Monday to Saturday. On Sundays the girls rest. 

The New And Much Improved Marks and Spencers Food Hall

First Impressions after 15 years shopping for food elsewhere it’ll cost ya

Lily Blacker

2025-11-08T09:54:00.0000000 2025-11-08T12:04:48.4170000

I don't go to Marks and Spencer's very much these days, although the brand still has a firm positive imprint in my brain, it was the place everyone wanted a Saturday job because of the higher pay and great working conditions, it was the place to go for an expensive food hall in the North, like Selfridges or Fortnums in the South and of course it was where everyone bought their bras and knickers. It was made in the UK personified, the backbone of the British retail industry, the conduit for beautiful British products to be brought to market, still very apparent in the "Farm to Foodhall" strap in the exquisite award winning (and very expensive) brand marketing campaigns, where production costs for one single advert can exceed £320,000 and that doesn't even include the costs to air. Not really surprising smaller companies cannot succeed in the "pay to play' food retailing game.

Fast forward 20 years and even though I still have M&S bedding and soft furnishings I use passed on from my Mum, excellent quality still going strong I don't shop there. I think the fashion buyers, creators have lost touch with their established audience, and don't capitalise on the foundations of trust the brand has built over generations. I hate to say it run by men I fear caring more about shareholders profits and the British feel has all but disappeared. I did buy in to a Made in UK ad campaign a few years back and went to find out what was happening to discover non of the products were available locally and I had to go to London or specific larger stores to see the range.

I do a lot of cooking at home to keep the cost down and because I enjoy cooking and the family prefer it (or have just got used to it), my food shopping keeps me out of the big supermarkets, buying fruit and veg mainly from independents and other stuff from delis and at a push Aldi or Sainsbury's. We have a Waitrose nearby which I use on very special occasions.

So when I went to the new and improved Marks and Spencer's Food Store in Fosse Park Leicester I got a real shock. It's vast and modern, designed like a very high end delicatessen with all the fresh fruit and vegetables laid out at the entrance. 
I searched high and low for grapes, I only had 6 things on my list, I found them, packed in plastic, stacked behind glass doors in high tech chiller cabinets. I have to say it did make me wonder how fresh and juicy they might be. I didn't check the price, I had £20 at the ready for my purchases which I imagined would be more than enough.

I had two meat items to buy, three slices of topside beef and four chicken thighs that would both usually cost less than a fiver. I located them with assistance in more closed floor to ceiling chiller cabinets. The whole shop felt like it was a laberinth of big fridges to be fair, not my usual way of farmers market style shopping. It was extremely tough to navigate although very busy so people clearly like it.

I overheard a mid aged lady, my age, reassuring her elderly Mum she earned good money, and her husband earned good money too so not to worry about what they were buying, she could afford to treat everyone and it made me think about maybe I should be more conscious about what I was spending, check the prices and add things up as went around to save embarrassment at the checkout.

I carried on found a couple of tomato and basil ready meals for one and a small portion of garlic bread to go with, a sliced whole meal loaf and I was done.I had to queue, like I said the place was packed and while I was waiting I sorted out some change for the volunteer patiently standing with a Loros collection bucket as I watched her being ignored by the shoppers checking out. I thought how tough it must be on your feet all day at her age and sorted out some change from my purse. When I interrupted her gaze to drop the money in the bucket the level of gratitude was palpable. The nicest interaction I'd had in the shop to be fair and definitely not proportionate to amount I had donated a couple of quid, if that.

When it was my turn to pay I was ready with my £20 note. The young assistant, as frosty as the chicken thighs, not long out the chiller. My six items when tallied up came to over £30 and I wondered how the lady in front and the chap behind with massive trollies stacked could actually afford it.

The food I bought was good, nothing wrong with it but the prices are extortionate. The interior of the store is lovely, high tech, modern and clean, the experience not fantastic, when I asked for help as a first timer, the person, maybe a manager definitely gave me the impression he had better things to be doing than showing me where to find ready made spaghetti.

I'd say if you've got money to burn knock yourselves out but it's not a cooks paradise, if you like seasonal meats and produce and you like the market feel of knowing what you are buying then there are loads of better farm shops and independent food retailers around Leicester.

The romance of the human touch in the advertising campaigns, Farm to Foodhall, it's not just food, it's M&S food, didn't translate for me. I'd say "Food shopping in the 21st century and that's going to cost you."

That said I am hopeful some of the old values of M&S will return some day when the ordinary people who love the brand just cannot afford to support anymore.

Experience the Timeless Charm of Gallone's Ice Cream Parlour in Market Harborough

Enjoy the nostalgia of a banana split or knickerbocker glory Italian inspired ice cream with a...

Lily Blacker

2025-09-08T11:13:00.0000000 2025-10-11T10:00:06.5670000

This spot is a firm family favourite where everyone wants to go come rain or shine to enjoy either a quick single scoop as we pass by or the full works sitting down for a gigantic ice cream sundae.

Nestled in the charming town of Market Harborough, Gallones Ice Cream Parlour stands as a delightful testament to the timeless allure of traditional ice cream. This family-run business, with its roots deeply embedded in the rich culinary traditions of Italy, brings a slice of Italian sweetness to the heart of Leicestershire, offering a nostalgic escape to the days of classic ice cream parlours.

Established by the Gallone family, who have been crafting exquisite ice cream for generations, the parlour offers a quaint, vintage ambiance that transports patrons back to a simpler, sweeter era. The décor, with its cheerful pastel colours, checkered floors, and classic diner-style booths, creates a warm, inviting atmosphere that is perfect for family outings, friendly gatherings, or a quiet treat after a long day.

At Gallones, the menu reads like a dream for dessert aficionados. It features an array of beloved classics, such as the decadent Banana Splits and the extravagant Knickerbocker Glories, each made with the parlour’s signature homemade ice cream. The ice cream itself is crafted using traditional methods passed down through the Gallone family, combined with high-quality, locally sourced ingredients. This commitment to quality and authenticity ensures that each scoop is rich, creamy, and bursting with flavour.

The variety of flavours at Gallones is both impressive and indulgent. From the timeless vanilla, strawberry, and chocolate to more innovative concoctions like salted caramel, pistachio, and even bubblegum, there is something to satisfy every palate. Seasonal specials and rotating flavours keep the menu exciting and fresh, encouraging patrons to return time and again to discover what new delights await them.

Gallones is more than just an ice cream parlour; it's a community hub. It hosts various events and parties, making it a popular local spot for celebrations. Whether it's a child's birthday party or an adult's trip down memory lane, the staff at Gallones go out of their way to make every visit special.

Moreover, Gallones Ice Cream Parlour is dedicated to sustainability and community involvement. They source their dairy from local farms, reducing their carbon footprint and supporting the local economy. Their commitment to community and quality has made them a beloved part of Market Harborough's local landscape.

For those looking to experience a blend of Italian tradition and English charm, Gallones Ice Cream Parlour in Market Harborough is a must-visit. It’s a place where every scoop of ice cream is served not just with a smile, but with a story of family, tradition, and passion. So, next time you're in the neighbourhood, we make a special trip for a sit down, swing by Gallones for a taste of Italy, lovingly made in the heart of England. Whether you opt for a classic cone or a lavish sundae, Gallones promises an experience that’s both sweet and unforgettable.

Redken Acidic Colour Gloss Treatment you leave on for 5-10 minutes

I just had a Redken gloss treatment at M and M Hair Salon Leicester

Lily Blacker

2025-08-27T15:24:00.0000000 2025-08-27T16:32:21.9470000

Redken Acidic Colour Gloss Treatment

I don’t get to the hairdressers that often these days, like most busy Mums, getting my hair done is pretty low on the list of priorities so when someone buys me a cut and colour at a professional salon it’s a real luxury for me.

My friend has a beauty salon and a trade account at a local professional beauty supply place where I can buy professional grade colour which I apply myself every couple of weeks.

I haven’t bought Redken haircare products for a while but have a good opinion of the haircare products and the brand, primarily because my mother was a Redken customer her whole life. She absolutely loved the shampoo and conditioner and it was always a go to gift for friends and family if they didn’t know what to buy her for a birthday or Christmas.

I have steered away from Redken myself simply because they are owned by L’Oreal and because they are not considered cruelty free, selling in China where there’s still some debate whether animal testing is or is not required to trade in the territory.

There are so many other cruelty free PETA approved shampoo and conditioners on the market these days so my mother’s allegiance to the product range didn’t stick. I’ve been buying green people shampoo and conditioner at Tesco and the family seem to like it. No complaints which is usually a good sign.

That said when I was offered the 5 minute gloss treatment for coloured hair in salon I said yes. At the time I didn’t know it was a Redken product I was giving the nod to, to be fair until after it was completed and I was offered the chance to buy a bottle at around £40 if i remember correctly. It's £33.10 in Boots but you always pay a bit of a premium for products in a nice salon. You'll get an even bigger saving on Amazon at £24.10.

There’s a bit of a question mark about how long a gloss treatment in salon will last, the consensus online (not the Redken product website) seems to be about 6 weeks although if you buy a bottle either in salon or at the beauty supply it’s recommended you gloss once a week after shampooing to maintain the gloss effect. The Acidic Gloss Colour Treatment goes on after shampooing, you leave for 5 to 10 minutes before conditioning with the same recommended redken conditioner and then wash everything off if you are doing the process yourself at home.

I did love the treatment in the salon, with a thorough head massage at M and M Hair on the Narborough Road in Leicester where the staff took great care of me. And my hair did look and feel extra glossy and shiny, certainly way better after a trim than when I colour and wash it myself.

I didn’t buy the gloss treatment in salon, I’ve washed my hair once since the treatment and it still seems shinier than usual, not sure how long the gloss effect will last or if I’ll be going back to the salon to pick one up when I wash my hair myself again and the gloss is not quite so glossy.

I have seen lots of places to purchase online a bit cheaper if I decide to treat myself to one.

And certainly will be back at M and M Hair for a pamper when the budget allows.

MNBA Credit Cards and minimum payment calculations

It’s probably not only MNBA I just got a shock and learned something new

Lily Blacker

2025-06-21T12:53:00.0000000 2025-06-21T13:41:02.0370000

I want to begin by saying MNBA haven’t done anything wrong. When you sign up for credit card you agree to their terms and conditions and although my experience was with MNBA the way interest and minimum payments are calculated is pretty much the same whoever you bank with or hold a credit card with.

I just had an experience that was a surprise to me so wanted to give everyone the heads up.

Last month I paid off a significant portion of my credit card about 90% I took out a personal loan for a better interest rate to save money and get my monthly payment down.

However this month, even though the balance was so significantly reduced I was hit with an unexpected minimum payment 50% higher than it was before I paid off the large amount.

I have discovered this is because the minimum payment is not calculated on what is actually owed today but the statement balance at the beginning of the previous month.

So paying off a large portion of a credit card doesn’t help with your minimum payment the next month unless you pay off the balance in full.

It is only the following month when the interest is recalibrated on the significantly lower balance that the minimum payment is adjusted.

It is noteworthy to add, when I tried to understand what had happened when the much larger than average payment was taken which I hadn’t budgeted for the assistants on the chat line didn’t explain in simple terms why I had had the unexpected hike in minimum payment even though my statement balance was reduced by 90%.

They just kept on citing the rules which just didn’t make any sense. So I ended up paying off the whole thing in frustration without any explanation.

I later found out online why this had happened and that the next month the new minimum payment would be calculated on the new much lower balance, so my fear of the minimum payment remaining at the very high amount was unjustified.

Sadly no one at MNBA was able to explain this to me.

To recap, even if you pay a big portion of your credit card off, unless you pay it all, the next month your minimum payment will jump, it is not until the following month you will see the minimum payment come down. When paying down debt you need to keep money aside to cover this unless you can clear any balance in full.

In MNBA’s defense their website does have a pretty comprehensive and straight forward help section with guides and simple examples although I couldn’t find anywhere the information I needed about paying off a significant portion of your balance, not the full amount and how that could make your minimum payment jump the next month, as it is calculated from the statement balance before you made the payment.

The Beauty Edit Collective bringing beauty professional together

Great female led initiative for independent beauty practitioners to build and grow

Lily Blacker

2025-05-18T15:09:00.0000000 2025-07-07T07:34:59.5130000

I haven’t been myself yet but I was extremely excited to find Bertie Lottie who is offering the first Japanese head massage spa treatment in Leicestershire with prices staring at £70 from this gorgeous canal side suite of beauty rooms in Market Harborough.

I noticed the refurbished luxury space whilst enjoying a plate of spicy jalapeno nachos and a Heineken with friends at the Waterside Inn right next door.

What an inspirational idea from local Make up artist Lucy MacDonald to create a shared professional space comprising hair stations, nail stations, treatment beds and relaxation area for clients.

Whatever you are looking for whether it’s a doctor, Doctor Amy to sort out your aesthetics, injectables, Botox and fillers, gel nails and nail art from Glossy Nails and Beauty or hair by Chloe X Ben Hair this team of independents has got you covered.

The great thing about the Beauty Edit Collective space, it gives an opportunity to anyone in the beauty field to access a clean welcoming, professional space on an hourly, daily, weekly or monthly basis whilst building your business, when perhaps renting a space independently would be out of reach.

The beauty edit collective are on Instagram @beautyedit_collective, link below where you can find a list of all the independent practitioners available and new collaborators like Nailed it with Freya who just joined in April.

So if you need your eyebrows sorting HD Brows is a multi process of tinting and reshaping and costs £35 or you can go for microblading, depositing small amounts of pigment under the skin, micro blading is permanent makeup, I am seriously thinking about this treatment myself after over plucking in the centre of my brow when young to eliminate a unibrow that went too far, Lucy MacDonald will sort this for you, a quick cheeky tattoo, or a station to show off your incredible blow dry or bayalage talent, pop yourself into the beauty edit and say hello.

They’ll be more than happy to see you and tell you more about everything they offer, or you can email Lucy MacDonald directly at thebeautyeditcollective@gmail.com

Brilliant to see people coming together to create community and overcome the hurdle for small businesses of high priced commercial property and long leases.

Depop Listings How The Devil Do you Delete Them?

Using secondhand apps easy to post not so for deleting

Lily Blacker

2025-05-09T10:17:00.0000000 2025-05-10T08:17:43.0870000

I like reading Teen Vogue, I don’t fit their demographic anymore, a couple of years off thirty however the parent magazine feels a little more frumpy and matronly even with new (only 45) British Vogue editor Chioma Nandi at the helm.

I cut this article out in 2020. And a few months later I explored Depop as a way to clear my closet. It didn’t prove very successful. I set up the account listed a few things but it never got going and I didn’t sell anything so the account has just sat there for a few years now.

Recently I returned as I had an expensive designer handbag to sell to raise some cash for a holiday in a couple of months.

I took pictures, listed the item and then in a fit of conscience, the bag was a present from my parents I had an anxiety attack, if they saw me selling it and taking a big hit they’d be mortified and want to give me money; I needed to delete it.

OMG I am not an idiot but try as I might I went into every menu, there was no easy way to take this listing down.

I wondered why an app would make it so difficult not to edit a listing, that’s easy and a very visible function but to delete a listing it took me over an hour to figure out.

Completely frustrated by the Depop app I’ve decided to share as I am sure loads of other people have experienced this problem. The hilarious thing for me is when you ask Google the AI how to response is completely incorrect and tells you to navigate, look for a field button called “Listing Actions” not even there. At least I couldn’t find it.

So here’s what I discovered.

The deletion can only happen from the actual listing you want to get rid of. So you don’t do it from any of the menus from your profile where you can see all your listings. Pick, click on the listing you want to delete so it fills the whole screen, then top right corner of that screen you will see three buttons.

When you click here it opens a window that looks like you are no longer in the Depop app and you have to scroll down to find the delete button.

I think it’s fair to say they spend so much money to get you on there doing the work to list items, let’s remember content is king and new content royal with a capital R, the last thing they want is us changing our minds and deleting the items to sell elsewhere.

Depop are not the only app that make deleting very difficult. Fortunately there is help online via You Tube if my explanation doesn’t do the job for you.

Elizabeth Archer Interiors London Designer On The Doorstep

How we discovered local talent at The Room Interiors?

Lily Blacker

2025-04-29T07:03:00.0000000 2025-04-29T16:41:03.9900000

It remains a challenge for small companies and individuals to get their name out there. My sister is a designer and I have always sewed, upholstered, fixed stuff been interested in interiors, fabrics, textiles. When I lived in London I spent more time in Designers Guild and Colefax and Fowler and did an internship with Claibourne Interiors an interior design office in Palos Verdes in California so I cannot tell you how surprised I was to meet Elizabeth Archer in Countesthorpe working from a studio workshop in a semi rural business park opposite the garden centre where everything, yes everything is made in house. Skilled British craftsmanship right on our doorstep.

Rose Farm Business park I had never been in before. I was picking someone up from a personal gym session with a trainer renting another of the units and she was late. While I was waiting there was a hive of activity going on across the way and before to long a van pulled up and they started loading three or four pieces of handmade absolutely beautiful furniture, the type of custom couches and chairs you’d see coming out of a high end interior designer in Chelsea.

Who knew.

Immediately I was out of the car to have a nosey and maybe meet the proprietor and find out what was going on inside.

I met Elizabeth and her husband partner and they couldn’t have been more passionate about high craftsman ship made in the UK, making things to last, sustainability all the things important tome.

The most striking thing was Elizabeth’s eye and well frankly good taste. In her studio her projects and story boards weren’t local at all, I could have been sitting in a studio in Milan or Paris for style except quintessentially English sort of a cross between modern British Heritage like the Ralph Lauren brand with clever use of colour and print.

I loved her style and couldn’t quite believe I was standing in a business park in the outskirts of Leicester of all places.

so for your grand designs rebuild, barn loft conversion or just escaping to the county you’ve got an international talent with local independent prices if you know where to find her.

Amanda Lock is another lovely local interior business who can help you with curtains, blinds, cushions, throws and slip covers if you cannot make these yourself. You find her concession inside Tim Barradell, the Carpet and Flooring business in the Dye Works Buildings in Countesthorpe.

I would recommend anyone who immediately thinks John Lewis for custom interiors curtains and blinds give Amanda a call first. You will get a better service for a lower price and maybe end up with something no one else has got, a designer experience for real from a local independent business.

I don’t know how I would have ever come across either of these great businesses unless it was completely by chance.

Who knew Countesthorpe in Leicestershire could offer interior design talent worthy of Architectural Digest.

You can also find Liz Archer at her super cute interiors store in Cosby No 13 lifestyle store. It’s a teeny tiny store in Cosby and I’d imagine a way to market her bespoke design services to our community. It’s run by Liz who has completely transformed the old post office. The shop is so quaint just a bit off the beaten track so other reasons to go to Cosby are The Cook In The Nook featuring a warm friendly welcome from

Harry or The Tithe Barn, for a more corporate “Marriott Hotel” like experience with a beautiful outdoor patio and really good service.

To Buy Or Not To Buy On Running Cloudmonster Sneakers On Ebay

Would you trust Iga Swiatek and Zendaya?

Lily Blacker

2025-04-19T13:08:00.0000000 2025-04-20T08:34:43.8670000

I have been pondering the difference between marketing’s disappointment and actually genuine market research for a Sunday morning when online shopping has become a national pastime a substitute for introspection, it’s kind of a new way to look at being in search of the divine.

I’ve been thinking about buying a new pair of trainers for a while and I’ve been doing the preliminary research as to which pair I’m gonna go for. On running are the brand I’ve been looking at, the cloud monster is the model name of the pair of trainers I like. The price around £140 if you get the cheaper ones new all the way up to £240 for Hyper Cloudmonster.

_

Regardless of our opinion on successful marketing campaigns whilst On running is said to have about 2% of the global shoe market at present in 2024 they say sales rose significantly up almost 30% on the previous year at 2.32 billion Swiss francs.

I guess the big question is will that massive growth sustain.

The first time I was introduced to the on running cloud monster sneaker. I think I saw a blogger or influencer wearing them online on Instagram or X I’m quite a big tennis fan and then I saw Iga swiatek the Polish tennis champion Marketing a pair of on sneakers that had been produced especially for her. They did look really good and Iga Swiatek seemed to like them.

The other day I saw a story in the Hollywood reporter about Golden Globe, Emmy winner and Hollywood starlet Zendaya being the new face of On Running. I loved Zendaya in The greatest showman and although I haven’t seen the movie “Challengers” I did follow a good deal of the press and PR around the movie as I am very interested in the work of her stylist Law Roach and the collaboration between them created some standout moments for the press like her appearance at the Met Gala in two different Galliano gowns the first from Maison Margella where he is currently creative director and the second gown from an old 1996 givenchy collection only ever worn once before on the runway by super model Veronica Webb. Zendaya appearance on daytime talk show wearing a vintage Thierry Mugler lime green neon suit on the Kelly and Mark show also got headlines as Zendaya supported secondhand fashion retailer in Beverly Hills Rita Warnick by buying instead of borrowing.

In 10 short years stylist Law Roach has created so many moments for the press with Zendaya she has been capitulated to bonafide stratosphere style status with the Challengers movie creating a spin off styling social media campaign with the hashtag #tashimademewearit

And yes I was influenced when I saw Zendaya promoting the On running sneakers I was 90% sold on.

I know this seems like a very long story not about the sneakers, it’s more a story about marketing and even though I didn’t think I’d been brainwashed about the On Running sneaker I now know for real of course I have.

I don’t know anyone who has recommended them, no one I trust has told me they are amazing.

I was in the nail shop yesterday and the lady sitting next to me was wearing what looked like a fairly new pair of On running shoes. I immediately mentioned the sneakers and asked if they were Cloudmonsters. She said they were. I told her I’d been thinking about investing in a pair but hadn’t made the jump yet.

She told me, like me, she had waited for a while, did her research. She said they were pretty new had been wearing them (not for running she said) for about 8 weeks and she said the cushioning on the bottom was good and they did give light bounce but and it’s big but she told me the fabric on the top was way too flimsy for her, not that comfortable and the shoes didn’t feel stable on her feet. She said she was in the right size so that wasn’t the problem. The kicker for on running she was looking for something else and considering New Balance for their ethical credentials she said Made in USA and Made in UK.

I did think about saving a bit of money and trying to find a pair on a secondhand site then someone told me there were loads of fakes in circulation and to be careful.

Love to hear what anyone else thinks about their On running cloudmonsters and if the experience was the same or not.

Oway Glossy Hair Amber Nectar Serum

Vegan cruelty free hair care goes plastic free

Lily Blacker

2025-04-13T11:56:00.0000000 2025-04-17T09:36:10.1500000

Twist'n Curl is the new range from Oway. Never before has a haircare brand specialised in curly Free-flowing energy unleashed:

Oway are celebrating our natural curls.

I used to go to a hair stylist in market Harborough Luke Shah at The Attic for a while a few years (until we fell out and not because he wasn't a good hairdresser, I made a mistake)

It was Luke who introduced me to this better than your average range of hair care skincare and lifestyle products from bologna Italy a company that have evolved over almost 100 years and is steeped in passion and history and now pioneering a fully vegan approach to self care, completely eliminating the use of plastics.

As someone who gave up eating meat a long time ago and tried to move more to completely plant based since Covid the values held dear by Oway allign well with me.

When you go to the Oway website, a rebrand on Rolland a company that began in the 1940 you'll see whilst not so well known in the UK they have over 400 gorgeous hair salon locations across Europe and two vast flagship stores one in Bologna and one in Munich.

Sadly for me the hair products aren't available anywhere else locally only The Attic hair salon in Market Harborough. I did get someone else to go in for me, secret shopper and unless they knew somehow it was for me and wouldn't serve her even they have had problems sourcing from Italy since covid and Brexit as it was out of stock.

Aside from the smell, which is quite potent the product is wonderful. It's light, you hardly need any at all and it'll deal with any kind of frizz or flyaway. And even better you don't get any residue or weight on your hair and can use it the next day and probably the day after before you have to wash your hair or notice any product build up at all.

The only issue now is where to buy it. It's £24 for 50ml on the Oway website.

El Mirador Adeje Restaurant By The Sea

Ritz Carlton Abama Tenerife

Lily Blacker

2025-03-04T09:25:00.0000000 2025-11-08T12:48:16.3570000

My family really like this spot on the beautiful volcanic island of Tenerife on the south side of the island.

The restaurant offers stunning views from 7.30am when they open for breakfast (if you are a retreat guest at the Ritz Carlton Abama) through lunch service and dinner service a la Carte dining.

You’ll be looked after by Karen and her team.

The breakfast is possibly the best I have ever experienced. A beautiful hot buffet and then anything you can think of cooked to order. Each breakfast station presented with 5 star aplomb from the Champagne, the still and sparkling water with ice and lemon, freshly squeezed orange juice on tap and a whole host of detox juices and fruit infused water.

For plant based people all the dairy free milk options, sweetened and unsweetened.

One of my favourite things, fresh pomegranates every day and homemade waffles not just with maple syrup but luxury black treacle syrup too.

The views, the heaters and blankets in the early am as the sun comes up makes this a heavenly spot first thing in the morning.

Of course breakfast is included for hotel guest.

I have only had lunch here and it was an equally relaxed and nothing too much trouble experience.

The only negative I have heard was from a couple of people the chips were bad, could have been a one off, although one comment was from a very funny and very famous Irish comedian (I won’t drop her name as she likes to visit undercover) who said and I quote,

“ for that price if you can’t cook a potato” and then think about that phrase with a lilting Irish brogue.

FYI nothing wrong with the hash browns at breakfast.

Audrey’s Leicester

PINK PARTY HEN DO

Lily Blacker

2024-12-14T10:14:00.0000000 2025-11-08T12:41:47.7230000

Audrey Bar just hosted a hen party for my auntie, an older 3rd time around bride (who told us all she should know better with a mischievous smirk)

We needed somewhere fun and cute for the young crowd but also good for ladies in their 60’s and 70’s and this was perfect.

The only downside it was a bit noisy, we had 15 people and the restaurant was quite busy besides us.

When you first arrive it’s the kind of place where lots of time and attention has gone into the decor, from the everything pink, the flowers, the neon photo worthy signage and the mismatched eclectic recycled china cups and saucers. Very quirky, one of a kind, made with love place.

We all had afternoon tea, £25 per person which included the Prosecco.

I even had a vegan on the guest list and they managed to accommodate her too with a plant based version of what we all had, which I can confirm she said was tasty.

I’d say the afternoon tea we enjoyed was not the best, white sliced bread sandwiches, but not the worst either, the presentation was absolutely beautiful and the staff couldn’t have done more to make the event special and go off with a bang.

I’d say this is a great place for a teenage celebration or a twenty something glam girls night out.

They have started recently serving breakfast:brunch also along with their mezze tapas style food menu choices.

If you haven’t been and have young women you are looking to entertain this would be the perfect place.

Thanks to everyone at Audrey’s for making our family event special.

Audrey’s I understand is a female led independent business.

It’s located opposite BBC Radio Leicester on St Nicholas Circle and at this time of year you can also enjoy Leicester’s answer to the London Eye, our big wheel which for £7 and £5 for kids you can enjoy a winter starry starry night ride on Leicester’s giant observation wheel.

It was fun to do at 5pm all wrapped up. The oldies absolutely loved it. They said something they wouldn’t have done in a million years but so glad they did.