All aboard for Christmas The Ivy Collection is delighted to unveil its 2025 festive campaign, The Ivy Midnight Express, a nationwide celebration designed to capture the magic of Christmas and transport guests to the ultimate festive paradise through delicious food and drink, evocative décor and exquisite dining experiences. The festive menus, launching in restaurants on November 12th, pull from traditional festive favourites, Ivy classics and innovative flavours for the ultimate date night. Inspired by the tale of Arthur, a young boy whose Christmas Eve adventure helps Santa back on track with the help of his beloved train set, The Ivy Midnight Express brings the nostalgia of festive storytelling into The Ivy’s brasseries, with installations that combine twinkling lights, vintage charm and whimsical train motifs. The Ivy Collection has worked with artist and scenographer, Sophie Neil, to bring the magical story to life with illustrations on the festive menus, as well as across various retail products, including Christmas crackers, Christmas cards and more. Discover the nearest location and book now: ivycollection.com Culinary EXCELLENCE Hand Picked Hotels, the UK’s leading privatelyowned collection of country house hotels and coastal resorts, is proud to announce that Fawsley Hall Hotel & Spa has been awarded another AA Rosette, adding to its 4 AA Red Stars. The Hotel’s Cedar Restaurant is now a 3 AA Rosette restaurant in recognition of its outstanding, modern British fine dining. The team’s cooking showcases the finest quality ingredients, treated with skill and creativity. Achieving this award is a significant accomplishment, making up only the top 10 per cent of all those holding AA Rosettes. Head Chef Joe Gould places provenance at the heart of his kitchen, sourcing produce from trusted local suppliers and adapting menus with the seasons. Located in Northamptonshire’s picturesque countryside, just outside the market town of Daventry, the historic estate offers an intimate Tudor-era dining space, where guests can enjoy quintessential British dishes enhanced with a contemporary twist. Discover more: handpickedhotels.co.uk/fawsleyhall STEP INTO THE ARENA Fans of the BBC smash-hit Gladiators can now become contenders themselves with the Gladiators Experience, launching at the NEC Birmingham in May 2026. Visitors can register for early access to tickets, with general sales details to follow. Participants will tackle iconic challenges from the show, including Hang Tough, Duel, The Wall and the legendary Eliminator, stepping into the role of a contender in an authentic Gladiators arena. The experience also offers family-friendly attractions. The Vault provides a behind-the-scenes look, the Gladiator Training Facility hones skills and a superstore sells exclusive merchandise. With surprises around every corner, there’s something for all ages and abilities. Following the sold-out 2025 Gladiators Live Tour, this immersive experience lets fans take on the challenges themselves. Discover more: gladiators-experience.com NEWS Nearlywed All the latest from around the regions LATEST NEWS 9
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