Entertainment

Discovering the Hidden Gems of London’s Leisure Scene

Published

1 year ago

July 3, 2024

London is a city that never sleeps, offering endless possibilities for fun and relaxation. While tourists flock to famous landmarks, there’s a whole world of exciting activities waiting to be discovered. In this article, we will take you on a journey through London’s lesser-known leisure spots and experiences. We’ll explore the city’s vibrant nightlife, artistic soul, literary treasures, green spaces, and unique cultural offerings.

Nighttime Adventures in the Big Smoke

When the sun goes down, London comes alive with energy and excitement. The city’s nightlife offers something for everyone, from cozy pubs to high-end casinos. Many visitors are surprised by the variety of evening activities available in London.

One popular nighttime activity is visiting a casino. London’s casinos offer an unmatched gambling experience. Additionally, you get to enjoy live music, themed events, and fancy dinning. Some casinos even have special game nights where you can play board games while enjoying a drink.

Better yet, to cater to mobile players, some casinos in the UK have mobile-customized websites for those nights when you can’t make it to physical venues. With these casino apps, you can still enjoy numerous casino games like slots, table games, and live dealer games. Additionally, funding your account is seamless, and you have access to 24/7 customer service.

Uncovering London’s Artistic Treasures

London is a paradise for art lovers, with countless galleries and museums to explore. But there’s more to the city’s art scene than just famous museums. London has many hidden artistic gems waiting to be discovered.

One great way to experience London’s art is through free exhibitions. Many galleries have special evening events where you can see art and meet other art fans. The National Gallery, for example, has ‘Friday Lates’ which allows visitors to explore the museum after closing hours.

If you prefer something more active, try a street art tour. Areas like Shoreditch are famous for their colorful murals and graffiti. These tours let you see amazing art while learning about the city’s history and culture.

For a hands-on art experience, try a painting class. Many places offer fun sessions where you can create your own artwork. Some even let you enjoy a drink while you paint. It’s a great way to make a unique souvenir of your trip.

A Journey Through Literary London

London has a rich literary history that book lovers will adore. The city has been home to many famous writers over the years. There are lots of ways to explore London’s bookish side.

One must-visit spot is the London Library. This huge library has books dating back to 1841 and is an ideal place where you can spend your afternoon browsing rare and interesting books. You can also visit the homes of famous authors like Charles Dickens to see where they lived and worked.

For a more modern literary experience, check out London’s independent bookshops. These shops often host author readings and book signings. You might get to meet your favorite writer or discover a new one.

London also offers unique literary experiences. You can watch Shakespeare plays performed outdoors in the park. Some hotels even serve afternoon tea with treats inspired by famous books. These fun activities bring literature to life in unexpected ways.

Green Escapes in the Heart of the City

Despite being a big city, London has many beautiful parks and green spaces. Spending time in these areas can be good for your health and happiness. Being out in nature can help reduce stress and improve your mood.

One of London’s most famous parks is Hyde Park. Here, you can rent a boat and paddle on the lake. It’s a peaceful way to escape the busy city for a while. If you want a challenge, try hiking to the top of Hampstead Heath for amazing views of London.

London also has some lesser-known green spaces. The Kyoto Garden in Holland Park is a beautiful Japanese-style garden. It’s a quiet place to relax and enjoy nature. Another hidden gem is the Vauxhall Pleasure Gardens, an old park that’s becoming popular again.

Experiencing London’s Pub Culture

No trip to London is complete without visiting a pub. Pubs are a big part of London’s culture and social life. There are thousands of pubs in the city, each with its own personality.

Pubs in London offer more than just drinks. Many serve delicious food, from traditional British dishes to modern cuisine. Some pubs have special nights for games like darts or pool. Others host pub quizzes where you can test your knowledge and win prizes.

Visiting a pub is a great way to meet local people and experience London culture. You can enjoy a cozy evening by the fireplace or join a lively crowd watching a sports game. Pubs are welcoming places where you can relax and feel like a true Londoner.

Unusual and Quirky London Experiences

London is full of unusual and interesting places to visit. These quirky spots show off the city’s unique personality and offer unique experiences.

One strange but fascinating place is the Dennis Severs’ House. This museum is set up like a home from the 1700s. It feels like stepping back in time when you visit. Another odd but fun museum is the Horniman Museum. Here, you can see all sorts of weird things, from old musical instruments to stuffed animals.

For a spooky experience, try a Jack the Ripper walking tour. These tours take you through the streets where a famous criminal once walked. It’s a creepy but exciting way to learn about London’s history.

Entertainment

Gavin & Stacey stars reunite for Christmas advert

Published

1 hour ago

December 4, 2025

Luke Sinclair

Gavin & Stacey favourites Joanna Page and Mathew Horne have reunited on screen for a Christmas special – though not the one fans might have hoped for. Instead of returning to Barry or Billericay, the duo appear together in a new festive advert for Waitrose, sharing a turkey pie while responding to a fan’s heartfelt letter about expressing love through food.

The short film marks their appearance in How to Say It With Food, a six-part series in which Page and Horne tackle some of the nation’s most common Christmas food dilemmas. The clip opens with Page teasingly nodding to their iconic sitcom: “Oh, you didn’t think we’d let Christmas roll around without showing up again, did you?”

Horne quickly follows with his own playful line: “Us? Miss Christmas? Not a chance. But this time we’re here to help you say it with food.”

The pair are then handed an envelope “from Santa”, containing a letter from a viewer asking how he can show his “leading lady” he loves her through food. Mathew quips: “First time saying it, you want a statement. Sixteenth time, you want a statement that doesn’t involve socks.”

He then introduces Waitrose’s new Christmas advert starring Keira Knightley and Joe Wilkinson. The main campaign follows an unlikely festive romance sparked by Sussex Charmer cheese and culminating in Wilkinson presenting Knightley with a turkey pie decorated with the words “I love you”. Watching the moment unfold, Page smiles at Horne and mirrors another classic Gavin & Stacey reference: “Oh, that’s so romantic.”

The duo are soon given their own turkey pie to try. Horne eagerly tucks in before cutting Page a slice, prompting laughter from his co-star. The advert ends with the pair wishing viewers a Merry Christmas as Knightley and Wilkinson share a warm festive kiss on screen.

The reunion comes almost a year after audiences tuned in to the BBC sitcom’s much-anticipated finale, which drew an impressive 12.3 million viewers on Christmas Day. The episode wrapped up storylines including Gwen’s blossoming romance with Dave Coaches, Smithy’s near-wedding to Sonia, and the moment fans had long debated – Smithy and Nessa tying the knot.

Reflecting on the new project, Page said: “You thought you’d seen the last of us! Well, we’re back and what fun we had.” She added: “It was such a treat working with Mat… food is what brings people together over the festive season.”

Horne described the experience as “brilliant”, calling their on-screen reunion “a Christmas tradition”.

Entertainment

Filming for new season of S4C crime drama Cleddau returns to Pembrokeshire

Published

1 day ago

December 3, 2025

Tom Sinclair

Production crew spotted in Pembroke Dock, Neyland and Burton as series set for 2026 release

FILMING has returned to Pembrokeshire this week for the next season of Cleddau — the hit S4C crime drama released in English as The One That Got Away.

The production crew has been seen in Pembroke Dock, Neyland and Burton capturing new scenes for the upcoming 2026 series. Local photographer Gareth Davies shared images of the team working along the estuary, describing “a real buzz” in the area as cast and crew returned after the success of the first season.

Crime thriller rooted in the Cleddau estuary

Cleddau follows a murder investigation that reopens buried secrets in a quiet west Wales community. The show has been praised for its atmospheric storytelling, strong performances and striking use of local Pembrokeshire scenery — with the Cleddau estuary itself forming a central part of the series’ identity.

Residents have reported seeing cameras and production vehicles around familiar walking routes, waterfront areas and estuary-side villages as the crew makes full use of the landscape that inspired the show’s name.

Local interest and economic boost

The return of filming has been welcomed locally, bringing attention, visitors and activity into communities along the waterway. For many residents, the excitement lies in spotting familiar places on screen when the new season airs next year.

The new series of Cleddau is expected to be broadcast in 2026.

Entertainment

Cardigan Theatre brings Beauty and the Beast to Mwldan this Christmas

Published

3 days ago

December 1, 2025

Tom Sinclair

Festive panto promises magic, music and family fun

CARDIGAN Theatre is set to bring festive magic to Theatre Mwldan this Christmas with a fun-filled production of Beauty and the Beast, running from 21–29 December. The pantomime is written and directed by Jonathon Preece and promises all the traditional panto sparkle audiences love.

The story follows once-proud Prince Louis (Emily Davies), who angers Agatha the Evil Enchantress (Kelly Lewis). As punishment for his selfishness, she transforms him into the fearsome Beast (Steve Green). His only hope of breaking the spell is to find true love – or remain a beast forever.

Meanwhile, brave and kind-hearted Belle (Ruby Lemoine) sets out to rescue her eccentric father Marcel (Tom Loveday) who on his way to the “Big Invention Competition”, gets lost and stumbles into the enchanted castle and is taken prisoner by the Beast. Determined to save him, Belle is joined by her loyal friend Jaques, the village silly billy (Sarah Harris), flamboyant Dame Madam Fromage (Rhys Davies), and Gavin (Paul Robinson), the vain village heart-throb who is convinced Belle should marry him!

Inside the castle, Belle encounters a host of enchanted objects, including Tick Tock (Lilwen), Flambe (Bryce), and Mrs Kettle (Manon), who provide humour, magic and plenty of encouragement as they try to help the Beast win Belle’s heart and break Agatha’s curse.

With songs, jokes, colourful characters and plenty of audience participation, the production promises festive fun for all ages.

Beauty and the Beast runs at Theatre Mwldan from 21–29 December. Early booking is advised to avoid disappointment.

Cardigan Theatre can be followed on Facebook and Instagram for updates on future shows.