Travel Desk

FROM family-favourite theme parks to popular junior coasters – there have been some sad attraction closures in 2025.

But not all is lost as there are some terrific, and of course thrilling additions coming next year from world firsts based on beloved cartoon characters to rides that will be 138-foot tall.

Starting with the closures, there have been some big losses in 2025 from favourite attractions to whole parks…

Leisure Island Fun Park, Canvey Island

In Essex, the Leisure Island Fun Park closed its doors for good in February of 2025 – much to the shock of locals.

The popular park was on Canvey Island and particularly popular during the half-term and summer holidays.

It had been open for 20 years but suddenly announced it would be closing permanently earlier this year.

STREET SMARTS

I visit New York 6 times a year – my expert budget guide including £1 pizzas

SNOW WAY

All the best Xmas days out under £10 including FREE ice skating & Santa’s grotto

The news was announced through a Facebook post thanking visitors for their support over the last two decades.

In a few hours the post had gained more than 1k reactions and over 500 comments.

One said: “Oh sad times. We loved spending days up there in the summer. My children loved the rides and we have so many good memories. Wishing you all the best in the future.”

Some of the most popular attractions included the Go Gator coaster, the Snake ride, Orbiters, trampolines, and the classic Crazy Golf.

Oakwood Theme Park, Wales

Oakwood Theme Park, the biggest in Wales, closed in 2025.

It was home to a swinging pirate ship, flume, rollercoasters and mini black taxi carts.

Earlier this year, there had been rumours for plans for a reopening it this year – these however have been scrapped.

In May 2025, hopes were reignited to reopen the park after a new leisure company called Richens Leisure Projects (RLP) stepped in to not only save the attraction but also make it bigger through a £250million project.

Those hopes were short-lived as the entire project was scrapped a few weeks later. And owners Aspro Parks, revealed they had no intentions of selling the site.

Postman Pat Parcel Post ride at Alton Towers

In summer 2025, one popular attraction was closed at Alton Towers – the Postman Pat Parcel Post Ride.

Found in its CBeebies Land, the ride had first opened in 2014 as part of the land’s launch – so it’s safe to say it has been a classic for any visitors with young children for years.

It closed to make way for a new ride coming in 2026, the new Bluey-themed junior rollercoaster.

Smaller Rides at Blackpool Pleasure Beach

In February 2025, Blackpool Pleasure Beach announced the closure of five of its rides.

It said on its website: “We’ve made the decision to close some of our smaller, less popular rides during the 2025 season: Eddie Stobart Convoy, Alpine Rallye, Thompson Carousel, Gallopers and Red Arrows Skyforce.”

The decision to close some of the smaller rides at the park however, is to make way for new ones – or to redesign them.

For example in 2024, the park’s ride Ice Blast closed and will soon open as Launch Pad.

It said: “Launch Pad promises to be more thrilling, immersive and dynamic than ever before as riders shoot to the clouds at high speed.

“We’re confident that once you’ve ridden it you’ll agree that its temporary downtime was worth the wait.”

Now for the more exciting news – what’s coming up in 2026 from whole new theme park lands and worlds to one-of-a-kind rides.

World of Frozen, Disneyland Paris

You might have heard that a movie-inspired land is coming to Disneyland Paris, and it’s all based around the hit film, Frozen.

It will open on March 29, 2026 with a new attraction called Frozen Ever After where visitors will bob through the North mountain to Elsa’s Ice Palace.

Of course Elsa and Ana will be around the land as will Olaf and even the troll, Mossi.

There will also be a new restaurant called Nordic Crowns Tavern, the Arendelle Boutique shop and the Fjord View Shop.

The World of Frozen is part of the newly reimagined second park, Disney Adventure World.

Read on to find out more about the World of Frozen from Assistant Travel Editor Sophie Swietochowski, who went for a behind the scenes look in November.

Realm of the Vikings, Paultons Park

Family-friendly theme park, Paultons Park has revealed plans for a new £12million attraction set to open in May 2026.

The park be park which will be named Valgard – Realm of the Vikings, will be a viking-themed world with Paultons Park’s first inverting rollercoaster.

Called Drakon, it’s set to become the park’s most thrilling ride with a vertical lift hill and two twists that will take riders upside down.

There will also be Vild Swing that swirls riders 12 metres in the air, two brand new thrill rides, retheming of Cobra – a famous ride at Paultons Park, into a bobsled adventure.

The ride will be renamed Raven to complement the Viking village experience.

Valgard also features a themed high-capacity restaurant and new playground for younger visitors to enjoy.

There’s even more to look forward to in 2027, where a ‘water-related experience’ will be added.

Aviktas, Blackpool Pleasure Beach

Heading back to Blackpool Pleasure Beach, it has announced that it’s adding a new Gyro Ride to the books.

At the cost of £8.7million, the amusement park is set to build a 138-foot swing ride.

Called Aviktas, it will be the ‘tallest of its kind’ in the UK, according to the park.

The ride will feature a giant spinning pendulum that will swing 120 degrees and seat 40 riders at a time, making people feel like they’re flying.

There some other swinging pendulum rides in the UK – but Blackpool’s will be higher.

Bluey Junior Coaster, Alton Towers

A new Bluey Junior Rollercoaster will launch in spring 2026 and be the first of its kind in the world.

It has been announced that the new coaster will open in the park’s CBeebies Land.

Along with the new ride, there will be a Heeler family meet-and-greet and a new live stage show.

Some Bluey experiences have already opened in the park, like the themed accommodation where the Bluey theme song plays from speakers around the rooms.

PAW Patrol, Chessington World of Adventures

Alton Towers isn’t the only spot launching a world first, over in Chessington, the amusement park will open UK’s first and only PAW Patrol-themed land. 

The new immersive land will delight children who are a fan of the PAW Patrol pups.

There will be four new rides across the land including a brand new ‘my first rollercoaster’ for the littlest of visitors.

There will also be photo opportunities and themed bedrooms for the ‘ultimate sleepover’ first opened in 2025.

Pirates’ Plummet, Crealy Theme Park & Resort

Crealy Theme Park & Resort is celebrating its 25 years since the opening of Devon‘s first rollercaoster with a new addition next year.

The rollercoaster called Pirates’ Plummet is a family thrill ride and will open in 2026.

Few details have been released on the ride so far, but there will be no doubt more updates in the New Year.

We went behind the scenes of the upcoming Frozen land at Disneyland Paris…

Assistant Travel Editor Sophie Swietochowski went for an exclusive look at the World of Frozen earlier this year…

“A SNOW-capped mountain towers behind an ancient clock tower, its frosty peak protruding a whopping 36-metres into a cloudy sky.

“At its foot, a wooden-rimmed postbox is waiting to receive a bundle of postcards, Arendelle’s first ever mail, while a magnificent snowflake-shaped fountain sparkles in the centre of the street.”

“I was taking an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the much-hyped area of the theme park, scheduled to open on March 29 next year with a bundle of new rides and activities based entirely on the animation blockbuster.

“Visitor postcards sent home from the fictional kingdom of Arendelle, over which Frozen characters Elsa and Ana rule, are just one small part of what makes this land so special.

“The immersion goes beyond what’s been seen at any Disney park so far, from the ornate-framed paintings of characters to the ultra-modern technology that places Disney fans actually in the story.

“The clock tower, complete with mini Ana and Elsa figurines, sparks into song every 15 minutes and flickering lanterns dangle from pastel-coloured buildings.

“There’ll be a whopping 13 other dining venues in Arendelle alone, including food stalls serving sticky cinnamon rolls and the grand Regal View, World of Frozen’s character-dining venue.

This spot is impressive enough without the meet-and-greets. Disney Princesses have been painted into fresco-like murals across the walls and curved chandeliers dangle from the ceiling.

“And of course, no trip to Arandelle would be complete without a visit to the kingdom’s impeccably dressed Elsa and Ana.

“And the duo won’t just appear on the street; they will dramatically sail across the lake via a huge wooden vessel, preparing to greet their fans at the “Royal Encounter” in the castle.

“A lifesized and hyper-realistic Olaf will make an appearance, too. But unlike every other character at Disneyland Paris, Frozen’s star snowman has been built using clever robotics that allow the character to talk and even waddle away on his stumpy snow feet.

“The highlight will most definitely be the lands boat ride, Frozen Ever After, which will carry riders through the snowy forest towards the Valley of the Trolls and Elsa’s sparkling Ice Palace.

“Animatronics promise to bring scenes to life as riders approach Arendelle Bay which will be showered in snowflake-shaped fireworks.”

For more on theme parks, here’s what we know about Universal’s new mega UK theme park to be open all-year-round – as well as have free-to-visit areas.

And here are the top six UK theme parks you can easily reach by train this summer – and how to find the cheapest family fares.

The new route will take nearly eight hours in total, but passengers will have none of the extras usually associated with long-haul flights, such as meals or entertainment screens to pass the time

Flying on a budget airline is always a bit of an endurance test. They’re usually pretty cramped and offer little in the way of service or extras. But if the flight is a couple of hours long, most people aren’t bothered about luxurious extras if it means they’ve got more money in their pocket to enjoy the destination once they land.

However, in recent years, budget airlines have been offering longer routes, meaning that even long-haul destinations can be reached on one of these minimalistic services. One of the latest offerings comes from Air Arabia, who in spring 2026 will be offering a new London Gatwick to Sharjah route. It comes in at a leg-cramp-inducing seven hours and 50 minutes.

According to the Telegraph, these flights, which are operated on a single-aisle plane, will clock in as the world’s longest budget airline flights. However, they will offer an inexpensive way to visit the Middle East, and Sharjah Airport is just half an hour from Dubai, which will no doubt make it a popular route. According to Skyscanner, the cheapest tickets available now from London to Sharjah is £182. It remains seen how much cheaper the new route will be.

On-board, Air Arabia doesn’t look much different to easyJet, Jet2, or Ryanair. Cabins will have a single aisle with three seats on each side. Some services will have options to upgrade to extra legroom, and you can choose Basic, Value, or Ultimate packages when you book with the latter two, including checked baggage, either a sandwich or a hot meal, and water.

You won’t get seatback TVs to help you pass the time, but you can download an app called SkyTime, which allows you to access TV shows, movies, sports, and other entertainment on your personal device. Otherwise, your view for eight hours will be the seat in front of you and the in-flight magazine.

However, if you’re hoping to enjoy a cold beer or gin and tonic en route to your holiday destination, you’ll be disappointed. Air Arabia is a dry airline, so the trolley will only be stocked with soft drinks. It’s worth noting that Sharjah is a dry emirate too. While non-Muslims can drink in their homes, no alcohol is served in hotels or restaurants.

If you can make it through the flight, you have the option of staying in Sharjah, or heading to nearby Dubai for your stay. Sharjah isn’t as well-known as its neighbouring city, but it’s the third-largest emirate in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

UNESCO named Sharjah the “Cultural Capital of the Arab World”, and it hosts the Islamic Civilization Museum, which has thousands of items from coins to calligraphy and Islamic artefacts set in a beautiful domed building.

READ MORE: Spain to introduce strict new rules on smoking and vaping including beachesREAD MORE: I went to France but post-Brexit rule caught me out on my way home

Sharjah also boasts long sandy beaches that overlook the Persian Gulf, and the Al Majaz Waterfront area is particularly popular with tourists, as this large complex features picturesque parkland, Western chain restaurants, and stunning views of the skyscrapers that comprise Sharjah’s skyline.

There’s also plenty to do for families, including the colourful Sharjah Aquarium and Sharjah Classic Cars Museum, where you can see shiny vehicles from the earliest days of automobiles through to modern cars.

Have a story you want to share? Email us at webtravel@reachplc.com

The UK banking group has shared advice for people who connect to wi-fi during hotel stays

NatWest has urged customers staying in hotels to always check the guest book before connecting to wi-fi. With the festive season in full swing, many Brits will be on the move, whether they’re travelling home to visit family, attending Christmas parties, or travelling abroad for a seasonal holiday. For those staying in hotels or similar accommodation, it’s essential to be vigilant, as criminals may target hotel guests when plotting scams.

According to advice shared on NatWest’s website: “Scammers sometimes set up fake hotel networks with names that are very similar to the genuine one.” As such, it’s important to ‘make sure the network name is the one printed in official hotel guest books’, says the bank.

NatWest also advises customers against entering any personal information when connected to open Wi-Fi networks. “When using open Wi-Fi networks, stick to messaging and browsing, and avoid entering any personal information.”

“These networks are usually open, which means anyone can log on or that many people have the password. This makes it easier for fraudsters to see any details you enter on the same network,” the bank explains.

Cybersecurity company Norton has similarly highlighted the risks associated with hotel wi-fi. Advice on the brand’s website states: “Malicious hotspots, or rogue access points, are deceptive networks that trick users into connecting by mimicking legitimate Wi-Fi names.

“For instance, if you were staying at the Goodnight Inn and wanted to connect to the hotel’s Wi-Fi, you might mistakenly select ‘GoodNight Inn’ (with a capital N) instead of the correct network. By doing so, you risk connecting to an ‘evil twin’ network set up by cybercriminals to access your internet traffic.”

According to Norton, public Wi-Fi hotspots could also pose a risk, especially if criminals target unencrypted networks to gain access to sensitive banking information. “Many public Wi-Fi hotspots are unencrypted networks that transmit data in plain text, making it vulnerable to cybercriminals with the right tools. Hackers on the same network can intercept your online activities, including banking information, login credentials, and personal messages.”

While criminals might try to take advantage of people using their wi-fi, it’s just one of several tactics that scammers might employ. For holidaymakers spending their Christmas in another country, NatWest also offers advice on staying safe while exchanging money and dining out at restaurants.

The banking group advises customers to always pay in local currency where possible and to be mindful of potential restaurant scams, which could result in people being overcharged for food or charged for food that seemed complimentary.

NatWest suggests checking reviews ahead of time before choosing a restaurant, checking prices when placing an order, only eating and drinking what was ordered, and requesting an itemised receipt. The bank also recommended looking out for any additional charges, such as water charges or cover charges.

A LAND of lochs, monumental mountains and breathtaking beaches, Scotland is an unforgettable holiday destination. 

Whether you’re keen to relax by the sea, trek through glens, take the family to a country park or savour this nation’s brilliant cuisine, there’s something for everyone. 

So the hardest question on your upcoming £9.50 Holiday will be: where to visit first?

Families wanting to explore the local area will have stacks of choice. 

You could start with a gentle steam train ride through the countryside, with the likes of Strathspey Steam Railway sure to put a smile on your child’s face.

Need to up the ante? Older kids can test their courage with adrenaline-pumping activities like the Highland Fling bungee jump in Killiecrankie or burn off steam at Pirate Pete’s adventure play park in Ayr.

Taking your brood to a country park like Eglinton is another great way of letting them run off excess energy – and it has the added bonus of being completely free to visit.

Other top-rated free things to do in Scotland include hiking up Arthur’s Seat and visiting the National Museum of Scotland, both in Edinburgh, and Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum in Glasgow.

If you want a deeper dive into nature, you could head to one of the country’s two National Parks – at Loch Lomond and Cairngorms – which are packed with nature trails. 

For a route that’s loaded with history, try the outdoor “museum without walls” Cateran Ecomuseum.

It features ancient Pictish stones and the Cateran Trail, which you can explore by foot, bike or car. 

Alternatively, try and catch a glimpse of the famous Loch Ness Monster at Loch Ness – the world’s largest lake by volume.

Prefer to bask by the beach (weather permitting)? Then you’ll be spoilt for choice. 

With over 11,000 miles of coastline including its islands, Scotland has some of the UK’s best beaches, with Camusdarach Beach on the west coast and Gullane Bents, East Lothian, among those highly rated. 

Sun readers also have their own favourite Scottish beaches, from the near-deserted shores of Embo Beach in the Highlands to the family-friendly sands at Silver Sands near Lossiemouth. 

And with so many beautiful lochs, you also have freshwater beaches including the UK’s highest beach at Loch Morlich (318m). 

Beach days can be filled with buckets and spades, sea swimming or trying a raft of activities such as paddleboarding (do it off the coast of Nairn, and you could spot the resident pod of dolphins).

A swim in nature doesn’t have to be by the sea – with wild swimming spots that include river pools in the Highlands and “Rob Roy’s Bathtub”, a massive plunge pool fed by the Falls of Falloch.

You can also explore Scotland’s incredible lochs by kayak or paddleboard, with Priory Island on Loch Tay a fantastic option for an adventure without any crowds. 

When it’s time to refuel, Scotland has everything from sea view restaurants to cheap and cheerful cafes, like Doon the Beach, a community cafe just behind Stevenson Beach, and Milk Bar in Inverness. 

Keen to sample local flavours? Get your fill of everything from hearty haggis to Cullen Sink – a soup of smoked haddock, potatoes and onions – at somewhere like Garden Cafe Pitlochry.

And no trip to Scotland would be complete without a wee dram. 

There are traditional pubs aplenty, like The Auld Smiddy Inn in Pitlochry, as well as distilleries like the Blair Athol Distillery where you can learn more about the process of making the tipple on an organised tour.

Maybe it’s the brick exterior, or maybe it’s the heartfelt used book inscriptions, but bookstore co-owners Sam and Mike Robertson said Arvida is indeed the setting of many a first date and has even seen some proposals. For Sam, a self-declared “softie,” watching life unfold within Arvida’s walls has been a sweet surprise.

“This was always the dream, but I didn’t realize how much being the backdrop for people’s lives was going to affect me personally,” the bookseller said. She recalled recently watching one boy reading in the store and thinking to herself, “I remember the day you were born.”

As independent bookstores struggle in an Amazon-dominated market, Sam said she’s grateful for the support of a community that treasures that “third space” aspect of Arvida as much as she does. And where some do turn to “the giant that we shall not name,” as Sam dubbed Amazon, for lower prices, the bookseller said sales at the in-store Tolima Coffee Company cart fill in the gaps.

While Sam herself is a graduate of Peet’s Coffee — “coffee college,” as she called it — Mike is the true barista extraordinaire and even created a signature “Bookshop Blend” in collaboration with Stereoscope Coffee Co. Mike specializes in “coffee-forward” drinks, but he also recommended the matcha spritz and local-favorite ube latte for those with a sweet tooth.

With a cozy children’s nook and ample plush chairs to boot, Arvida is a perfect spot to spend a lazy weekend morning. If you need a better reason to make the trek from L.A., the bookstore’s charming Old Town neighbors are also fabulous for afternoon browsing.

I have made a point of escaping Christmas for as long as I can remember. Not escaping for Christmas, but avoiding it altogether – the stressful buildup, consumer chaos, panic buying, the enforced jollity and parties. When the first festive gifts start appearing in the shops in September, it’s time to confirm my travel plans, ideally to include New Year’s Eve as well.

Sometimes I travel independently, but more often in a group, and while it’s not always possible to avoid the tinsel and baubles – even in non-Christian countries thousands of miles away – I just relish not being at home at this time of year.

It’s not that I crave a week in the sun, although the Canaries or Madeira always appeal. My favourite Spanish city of Granada is a regular escape for Christmas, for despite the surprisingly cold temperatures compared with the Costa del Sol, the skies are always a dazzling blue, so I never tire of a stroll up to the Alhambra. I always stay high up in the Albaicín, the old Moorish quarter, where a walk along the winding, narrow, cobbled streets feels as it might have during the middle ages. I like the fact that even on Christmas Eve the squares are full of locals eating and drinking, wrapped up well in blankets and coats. The Spanish do love eating outside in all weathers.

Nor is it a case of bah humbug! I still send 80-plus Christmas cards by post and enjoy buying gifts for family and friends. When my parents were alive, I would always travel over to see them in Northern Ireland just before or just after the festivities. But everything changed in 1990 when my brother Brian, whose birthday was on Christmas Day, tragically died aged 45 the month before. Getting away appealed more than ever.

Over the years I’ve had some very memorable times. Travelling with a group of friends in Myanmar, after Aung San Suu Kyi had been released and encouraged tourism, I came down for breakfast on Christmas Day to find the receptionists wearing Santa hats, a fake tree in the lobby, and cotton wool for snow on greenery in the garden. The temperature was 30C.

That was the start of three days sailing down the Irrawaddy River, before exploring the Buddhist temples at Bagan, many held together by thick jungle vines. These cover 67 sq km (26 sq miles) and were built over a period of 230 years, until the city was overrun by Kublai Khan and the Mongols in 1287 and many were destroyed. For a bird’s-eye view, I went up in a hot-air balloon at sunrise on New Year’s Day and descended to a champagne breakfast.

As a vegetarian, turkey and all the trimmings are not for me, and while I’m very happy with the local diet wherever I am, somehow it’s assumed that, being far away from home, I long for a traditional British meal. After travelling by boat through the Sundarbans of Bangladesh, watching boatmen send otters on a leash into the water to corral fish into nets, we arrived at our next port of call to find the table laid for Christmas dinner – in my case, cauliflower cheese with yorkshire pudding, followed by tinned fruit salad and custard.

Other unusual festive dinners have included a packed lunch of pakora with cold chips, a cheese sandwich and a boiled egg (India); “warthog on spit” in Eswatini (I opted for rice and beans); and soggy pizza in Cuba – but then you don’t go there for the food; Cubans have to queue for basics such as rice, oil, sugar and eggs. Hunger pangs were forgotten when we scrambled up the hills to explore Fidel Castro’s hideout.

In Europe, many countries celebrate on the 24th, so Christmas Day is thankfully quiet and relatively normal. In Prague one year, under communism, the family I stayed with followed the Czech tradition of buying a live carp from a barrel in the street and keeping it in the bath until Christmas Eve, when they prepared breaded fillets, served with potato salad, for their meat-free dish in reverence to Christ. (I don’t remember how the bathtub fish was dispatched.) New Year’s Day required lentils for prosperity, and pig’s knuckles. I ate a lot of lentils on that visit in the 1980s, before the Velvet Revolution, when the only other vegetarian food I could find was Olomouc cheese (aroma of sweaty socks) and knedlíky (dumplings) with sauerkraut, when not doused in goose fat.

During a walking week on the Greek island of Evia on a group tour, it was a joy to find all the tavernas in the town of Karystos open over Christmas, despite it being the low season. We dined in a different one each day with “real people” then returned to a family-run hotel, our base for the duration. Our guide went the second (or seventh) mile after our day’s hike on the 25th by showering us with gifts, which were local and thoughtful; definitely worth taking home.

I like small group tours – fewer than 12 or you never remember their names – and I always pay for a single room. I’ll join the group dinners, but often head off alone to dine and discover something new (there is always one annoying person in the group – if you think there isn’t, it’s probably you). I like the fact I am only responsible for myself and don’t have to worry if my friend is having a good time. You can dip in and out of company but also have time to yourself, and privacy. The organised trips are usually a mix of couples, friends and solos like me.

The nearest I have experienced to a firework-free New Year was in 1999 in the mountain kingdom of Bhutan, a Buddhist country with a Buddhist calendar – there it was already 2542. The turn of the millennium was another reason to get away that year. I spent 31 December hiking up to Tiger’s Nest Monastery, one of the holiest sites in the Himalaya, on a cliff above the Paro Valley at an altitude of about 3,000 metres. This was followed by a restorative stone bath, with large stones heated for four hours and rolled into a wooden tub fragranced with lavender and herbs. It’s a ritual that beats any expensive spa treatment back home.

So this year, on 18 December, I’ll be hanging my age-old recycled wreath on the front door and heading off to Gran Canaria, hoping for like-minded escapers with walking boots and definitely no Santa hats. Merry Christmas!

This year’s edition of a famous Christmas market has been the target of criticism, mainly for overlooking one important thing.

Forget London or Manchester — according to expert testing platform Which?, the best Christmas market in Britain is the one in Bath.

The historic city was voted Which? Readers’ favourite medium-sized city, and is renowned for hosting one of the UK’s biggest and most established Christmas markets every year, with over 200 stalls.

Which? praised the Bath Christmas Market for its reputation for offering good food, drink, and festive activities.

Visitors can browse everything from handmade wooden furniture and garden sculptures to knitwear, fragrances, and gifts for pets, while also sampling regional delicacies such as foraged jams and seasonal baked treats.

However, despite its accolades and picturesque setting, the market does not appear to please everyone. In a recent Mail on Sunday feature analysing UK Christmas markets, Bath was rated only “OK” for a weekday visit.

According to Jane Fryer’s feature, although the market was not as overcrowded as previous visitors had complained, it fell short of expectations in one key area: the lack of Christmas spirit. This included music, limited lighting, or the absence of traditional seasonal touches, such as Santa or entertainers.

She noted that many stalls sold everyday market items, such as bags, coats, and T-shirts, rather than the expected festive goods and crafts. While the occasional stall offering local arts and foods was “charming,” the overall impression was that the place felt much less Christmas-ready than it should.

She also highlighted a broader trend among visitors nationwide, noting complaints about high prices, repetitive stalls, and overcrowding at many festive markets.

Fryer reported a mix of reactions from Bath’s visitors. Some had travelled specifically to see the market and were delighted by the traditional mulled wine, local foods, and the town’s scenic backdrop. Others, however, expressed disappointment, describing the experience as “not very Christmassy” due to the lack of music or entertainment.

Across social media and travel review platforms, Bath has been widely labelled underwhelming this year — not only because of logistical or layout issues but, primarily, due to a perceived lack of festive atmosphere.

Elsewhere in her piece, Fryer praised other seasonal markets she visited, particularly those with strong visual theming, live entertainment, and an overall more festive ambience, highlighting how these elements can significantly enhance the visitor experience.

Amsterdam’s iconic Christmas market serves glühwein, raclette and festive treats just one hour from the UK – it needs to be on your radar this winter.

There’s only so much time to soak up the Christmas spirit before the big day, and despite work and life becoming more hectic than usual, I managed to swap the hustle and bustle of London for Amsterdam. It was my first trip back to the Dutch capital in a decade, with my arrival coinciding with the start of one of the city’s most iconic Christmas markets, reports the Express.

Christmas markets in the UK can be hit or miss, and I must admit, the ones I’ve visited over the years have never quite matched those on the continent. The first time I realised our markets didn’t measure up was just a few years ago when I visited Vienna, which can only be described as Christmas on steroids.

The largest Christmas market in Amsterdam springs up in the shadow of the Rijksmuseum on Museumplein, where you can blend the festive spirit with a visit to some of the city’s most renowned museums and galleries.

We arrived on its opening day, and even though we visited in the evening, we managed to dodge the wall-to-wall crowds. This was something I never experienced in Vienna, and on this occasion, I was extremely grateful for it.

Entry to the market is free, but you’ll have to fork out €16 for the joy of skating on its ice rink. Much like other European markets, Amsterdam’s was adorned with wooden chalets offering everything from knick-knacks to treats, piping hot cups of glühwein and food from all around the world.

There was even a cabin flying the Union Jack selling fudge. Who would have thought that British fudge was such a hit overseas?

No visit to a Christmas market would be complete without trying some of the local specialities. A Dutch wurst is a robust cured pork sausage typically served with stamppot, a blend of mashed potatoes and kale. However, it seemed we had arrived too late. No wursts for us.

So we settled for the next best thing: barbeque jumbo sausages served on toasted slices of bread with pickled onions and gherkins, topped with crispy onions and mayo. This isn’t your average sausage sandwich. Trying to tackle every bite is a mouthful, overflowing with chunks of smoky sausage and crumbly onions.

It was evidently a popular choice, with crowds gathering around the open flame grill right in the heart of the action, with sausages sizzling and emitting a tantalising aroma. A barbeque might not be what you expect in the depths of winter, but blimey, was it needed.

Sadly, the warmth emanating from the grill wasn’t enough to heat our bones while we waited, so two cups of glühwein were called for. Glühwein is traditional German mulled wine, delicately spiced with cinnamon, cloves, star anise.

I’m not entirely certain what the secret is, but somehow the Germans manage to perfectly balance the red wine and spices in a way that all the mulled wine I’ve sampled at UK Christmas markets always seem far too acidic. Glühwein is the ideal beverage to warm you to your core, particularly in a freezing city in December, even if the city is renowned for its beer.

When our sausages finally turned up, they were heaped with pickled onions and gherkins. Much like a Scandi open sandwich, it was bursting with diverse flavours, so unlike any festive fare you’d find back home.

You received an entire jumbo sausage on one slice of bread, quartered to actually fit into your mouth. The smoky pork was wonderfully offset by the sharp tang from the pickles, with a different texture provided by crispy onions. This isn’t your typical Christmas market grub, but it was delightful to sample some local specialities.

However, no Christmas is complete without a generous helping of cheese. A classic choice at European Christmas markets is bubbling, ooey, gooey raclette.

We opted for the traditional pairing of raclette and potatoes. What could be more perfect? The humble new potato smothered in smoky melted cheese.

The cheesy spuds were served with some more crispy onions and a fresh coleslaw. Now this is what Christmas is truly about. I would devour a bucketful of raclette if they’d offered one.

Sausages, glühwein and raclette: the holy trinity of Christmas market food.

Even though it was late at night and the crowds were thinning, there was still a buzz among the youngsters and families huddled around the electric heaters trying to stay warm, sipping from steaming cups, welcoming the festive season. Compared to Vienna, Amsterdam’s markets offer a more tranquil start to the Christmas season.

Is this the best Christmas market I’ve ever visited? Probably not, but I’m always fascinated to see how other countries embrace the festive season.

Amsterdam is one of those cities where you can spend hours just wandering around, and we certainly did plenty of that. You can meander from spot to spot with ease, particularly if navigating foreign public transport baffles you. That being said, Amsterdam’s public transport runs like clockwork.

From the moment you step out of Amsterdam Centraal, you can sense the Christmas spirit in the air. I returned to the city for the first time in ten years, and up until this point, I hadn’t felt all that festive.

Amsterdam served as a stepping stone into Christmas for me before I head back to Vienna again for round two of Christmas on steroids. If there’s anywhere you should flee to in December, it’s Amsterdam. It’s only a train journey away.

If you want ideas and inspiration to plan your next UK adventure plus selected offers and competitions, sign up for our 2Chill weekly newsletter here

From city to sea… Büyükada, the largest of Istanbul’s Princes’ Islands, is a must for those in search of peace

If you’re looking for some peace amid the hustle and bustle of your trip to Istanbul, enter Büyükada, the largest of the Princes’ Islands. A short public ferry or boat taxi away from the mainland, they make up a car-free archipelago in the Sea of Marmara known for their historic mansions and laid back atmosphere. Absolutely ideal for families, Büyükada is small enough to explore in a day or two, with plenty of relaxed activities, from cycling to swimming to swimming.

Where to stay

You want… peace

Princes’ Palace

A chic and calm five star resort on the water’s edge, Princes’ Palace manages to appeal to adults looking to relax and unwind, and children looking for some fun. Newly opened, rooms are stunning – sleek and modern, with views over the Bosphorus. The hotel boasts its own jetty, and arriving by water taxi is a delight, although you can also arrive to the island by a regular public ferry.

On hot days, a small private beach, sheltered by the jetty, and an outdoor pool lined with Bali beds means you need never leave. Inside, there’s a further pool, with a large hot tub and plenty of relaxation areas. There’s a hammam too, and a gorgeous spa. Children are welcomed in the pool area, which has lovely views, especially at sunset. Dinner in the upmarket restaurant, designed to look like a library with cosy nooks and squashy seats, was delicious. Rooms start from around £393.

READ MORE: I’m a family travel expert – here’s how to spend 48 hours in Lisbon with kids

Where to eat

Eskibag Teras

A fish and seafood restaurant with a stunning view out over the water, Eskibag was one of the highlights of our entire trip. The children loved choosing their food from the counter (a whole seabass, calamari, garlic prawns) which was then cooked fresh and served.

What to do

Hire a bike

The best way to see the island, which is amazingly car-free, is by bike. There are plenty of bike shops offering hire for just a couple of pounds. It took us a few goes to find baby and child seats, but once we did it was well worth it. It takes around two hours to cycle around Büyükada and the views alone are worth the exertion. But there are also plenty of spots to rest, including a lovely cafe under the trees, with swings for the children, cold drinks, and lots of cats.

Wander the promenade

The shopping centre of Büyükada can be found just steps away from the ferry port. There are plenty of shops to explore, and eateries for the hungry. But the best thing to do? Grab an ice cream (three scoops if you dare!) from one of the theatrical sellers on the seafront, and take a walk along the promenade. Enjoy the boats, the lapping shore and the view across the water to Istanbul.

Istanbul with children in tow is easier than you think…

Choosing where to travel with children can be tough. But when I tell you that you need to add Istanbul to your family travel bucket list, it’s no lie. I’m a mum of two and as a family of four we like to travel extensively. And when choosing where our wanderlust will take us, there needs to be something for each of us to enjoy. So I’m pleased to report that Istanbul in Turkey ticked boxes for all of us: me, John, five year old Molly and one year old Poppy. From mouthwatering food to incredible historic sites – and a brilliant fairytale sweet shop – we fell in love… and I think you will too. Istanbul has it all. Here’s why…

When to go

As with all of Turkey, Istanbul can reach searing temperatures in summer. And as sightseeing as a family in the heat can be a bit, well, testing, I would advise that the best time to check it out with little ones in tow is between October and May. We went in October half term. Temperatures rose no higher than around 20 degrees. While we couldn’t swim in an outdoor pool or the Bosphorus, it was really pleasant to walk around in T-shirts and jeans.

Is it safe?

When chatting about Istanbul with friends before we went the same question kept coming up: is it safe? And I’m pleased to report that whether day or night the city felt very safe indeed. There is beefed up security at the entrances to places like the Grand Bazaar market, tourist sites like the Basilica Cistern and many upmarket hotels. But the city has a relaxed vibe to it – people are friendly and absolutely love children. Istanbul welcomed us with open arms.

Where to stay

You want… to be in the thick of it

Four Seasons Sultanahmet

Right in the heart of the old city, the five star Four Seasons Sultanahmet is just steps away from the Blue Mosque, main square, endless shopping – and you can see the Hagia Sofia from the hotel’s open air rooftop bar. With delicious food and drink on offer, the rooftop welcomes children to enjoy the views too, which are particularly spectacular at sunset. Hearing the call to prayer ring out around the city gives you goosebumps.

Elsewhere, for the foodies, there’s fine dining eatery Avlu; a lovely little coffee shop in the foyer, which does a good flat white; and exceptional in-room dining. With kids in tow on our travel, when deciding what and where to eat I choose ease… and the extensive room service menu, quick service and good food, provided exactly that for us. Rooms themselves at the FS Sultanahmet are spacious, luxurious and have everything you could possibly want, from Diptyque toiletries to expensive sheets and artisan robes.

The hotel doesn’t have a pool, but a shuttle takes guests for free to nearby Four Seasons at the Bosphorus to use the two they have there. Staff on site couldn’t do more to help their guests, and remember names and coffee orders in the morning. Children are welcomed with open arms, and are gifted toys on arrival. A play tent was set up in the room too, which was a lovely touch and provided lots of fun. But the best bit? The building used to be a prison! My five year old absolutely loved that she was ‘staying in jail’. Prices from around £650.

You want… pools

Those two pools I mentioned… well they belong to Four Seasons’ other location in Istanbul: Four Seasons at the Bosphorus. Set, as the name suggests, right on the strait that runs through the middle of the city, it allows for glorious views over the water from many of the rooms. A renovated 19th century Ottoman palace, the grand five star hotel is pretty impressive to look at itself too. The word splendor springs to mind. Rooms are beautiful, light and airy with squishy window seats and gargantuan beds. One night, during our stay, there was an incredible thunderstorm. We turned all the lights off, snuggled up on a window seat, and watched the sky for hours. Magic. In both Four Seasons locations, nappies, bubble bath, wipes and more were supplied in a handy – and much appreciated – basket of baby essentials.

One for the water babies, FS Bosphorus has an outdoor pool (although this was too cold for us to frequent in October) and an indoor pool, which welcomes children around the clock. Molly loved this, and the hot tub. When it comes to food, seafood restaurant Aqua is completely divine, as is Middle Eastern-inspired Ocakbasi. With tired children, though, the in-room dining options available were sublime. An extensive menu for both adults curious to try the local cuisine… and little ones hankering after a margarita pizza… were catered for.

Toys on arrival delighted the children, in-room games provided screen-free entertainment after a day of sightseeing, and a seemingly never-ending array of tasty treats appeared in the room. Prices from around £650.

What to do

Hagia Sofia

Cavernous. Majestic. Awe inspiring. The Hagia Sofia (Holy Wisdom) is the biggest must-do of Istanbul. A monumental building with a rich history, it was originally built as the greatest church of the Byzantine Empire in 537 AD, later converted into an Ottoman mosque after 1453, then a secular museum in 1934, and reconverted into a mosque in 2020, making it a significant cultural landmark representing centuries of religious and architectural evolution. It’s famous for its massive dome and stunning mosaics. As a working mosque, it is fascinating to behold, especially for the children. Visitors can walk around the gallery on the upper level to take it all in.

Blue Mosque

At a mere 400-odd years old, the Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque) is almost new in comparison to the Hagia Sofia – but the stunning building is also steeped in history. An iconic 17th-century imperial mosque, it’s famous for its stunning blue tiles, six minarets, and grand domes, blending traditional Islamic and Byzantine styles to create a masterpiece of Ottoman architecture, serving as both a historical landmark and an active place of worship.

Basilica Cistern

The Basilica Cistern was one of the places that took us most by surprise – it’s absolutely amazing. A massive, ancient (Roman) underground water reservoir built by the Byzantines in the 6th century to supply the Great Palace, it’s famous for its forest of marble columns, eerie lighting, Medusa head bases, and atmospheric setting that makes it a major tourist attraction. The cool location has served as a dramatic filming location for several major films – most famously the James Bond movie From Russia with Love (1963) and Inferno (2016) starring Tom Hanks.

Grand Bazaar

The Grand Bazaar (Kapalıçarşı) in Istanbul is one of the world’s oldest, largest, and most famous covered markets. A historic labyrinth of over 4,000 shops across 61 streets, selling everything from carpets, ceramics, and jewelry to spices, Turkish delights, and souvenirs, it attracts millions of visitors annually as a major cultural and commercial hub in the city’s heart. It’s known for its vibrant atmosphere, historic architecture, and the tradition of bargaining, making it a quintessential Istanbul experience. We bought spices to take home, and a stunning handcrafted bowl.

Turkish delight

No trip to Istanbul would be complete without a haul of Turkish delight. A traditional Middle Eastern confection made from a gel of sugar, starch (usually cornstarch), and water, it’s often flavored with rosewater, citrus, or mastic, and sometimes filled with nuts like pistachios or walnuts. These small, soft, jelly-like cubes are typically dusted with powdered sugar or coconut to prevent sticking and are served with coffee or tea as a sweet treat. Oh so very moreish – there are shops everywhere you look to try and buy.

Where to eat

Calakasik, Kadikoy

Kadikoy is one of Istanbul’s coolest neighbourhoods, with antique shops aplenty. And for the hungry, there’s Calakasik. A very unassuming-looking ‘local’ looking restaurant, it’s relaxed, lively and serves absolutely incredible Turkish food – canteen style. Come hungry and choose lots of dishes to share – try the zeama, kebabs and peka.

Deraliye Ottoman Cuisine

Michelin Guide 2025 recommended, Deraliye serves authentic, historical Ottoman palace dishes, featuring rich flavors from Turkish, Balkan, Middle Eastern, and Central Asian traditions, with unique recipes including goose kebab, stuffed fruits like apples/quince with minced meat, unique grape leaf wraps (sarma) with cherries, and traditional dips (muammara, babaganoush) alongside grilled meats, pastries, and rich desserts like Katmer . I had an exceptional lamb kebab, with onions, grilled tomatoes and peppers and rice. The kids had meatballs and loved them.

Muutto

An anatolian tapas bar sat by the side of the Bosphorus in a new development at Galataport cruise ship port. When there isn’t a boat, it’s a lovely place for a shop and a stroll, with loads of bars and eateries lining the waters edge. Serving modern Anatolian tapas (mezze) and street food, Muutto offers creative twists on traditional Turkish dishes like potato bravas, stuffed meatballs, octopus, lamb wraps, and unique items such as liver with halloumi, alongside homemade drinks and a focus on fresh, flavourful small plates for lunch and dinner. Even the dips were a work of art.

*For more on planning a trip to Türkiye, see Go Türkiye

*Return flights with Turkish Airlines or SunExpress from Manchester to Istanbul start from around £185 per person (checked November 2025). Flights take approximately 4 hours and 15 minutes.

READ MORE: I’m a family travel expert and these are the best things to do in Fethiye, south west Turkey, with kids

From majestic mosques to tasty treats, mum of two Hannah Britt reveals why the juggernaut of a city is a Turkish delight for all ages

Choosing where to travel with children can be tough. But when I tell you that you need to add Istanbul to your family travel bucket list, it’s no lie. I’m a mum of two and as a family of four we like to travel extensively. And when choosing where our wanderlust will take us, there needs to be something for each of us to enjoy. So I’m pleased to report that Istanbul in Turkey ticked boxes for all of us: me, John, five year old Molly and one year old Poppy. From mouthwatering food to incredible historic sites – and a brilliant fairytale sweet shop – we fell in love… and I think you will too. Istanbul has it all. Here’s why…

When to go

As with all of Turkey, Istanbul can reach searing temperatures in summer. And as sightseeing as a family in the heat can be a bit, well, testing, I would advise that the best time to check it out with little ones in tow is between October and May. We went in October half term. Temperatures rose no higher than around 20 degrees. While we couldn’t swim in an outdoor pool or the Bosphorus, it was really pleasant to walk around in T-shirts and jeans.

READ MORE: I’m a family travel expert – here’s how to spend 48 hours in Lisbon with kids

Is it safe?

When chatting about Istanbul with friends before we went the same question kept coming up: is it safe? And I’m pleased to report that whether day or night the city felt very safe indeed. There is beefed up security at the entrances to places like the Grand Bazaar market, tourist sites like the Basilica Cistern and many upmarket hotels. But the city has a relaxed vibe to it – people are friendly and absolutely love children. Istanbul welcomed us with open arms.

Where to stay

You want… to be in the thick of it

Four Seasons Sultanahmet

Right in the heart of the old city, the five star Four Seasons Sultanahmet is just steps away from the Blue Mosque, main square, endless shopping – and you can see the Hagia Sofia from the hotel’s open air rooftop bar. With delicious food and drink on offer, the rooftop welcomes children to enjoy the views too, which are particularly spectacular at sunset. Hearing the call to prayer ring out around the city gives you goosebumps.

Elsewhere, for the foodies, there’s fine dining eatery Avlu; a lovely little coffee shop in the foyer, which does a good flat white; and exceptional in-room dining. With kids in tow on our travel, when deciding what and where to eat I choose ease… and the extensive room service menu, quick service and good food, provided exactly that for us. Rooms themselves at the FS Sultanahmet are spacious, luxurious and have everything you could possibly want, from Diptyque toiletries to expensive sheets and artisan robes.

The hotel doesn’t have a pool, but a shuttle takes guests for free to nearby Four Seasons at the Bosphorus to use the two they have there. Staff on site couldn’t do more to help their guests, and remember names and coffee orders in the morning. Children are welcomed with open arms, and are gifted toys on arrival. A play tent was set up in the room too, which was a lovely touch and provided lots of fun. But the best bit? The building used to be a prison! My five year old absolutely loved that she was ‘staying in jail’. Prices from around £650.

You want… pools

Those two pools I mentioned… well they belong to Four Seasons’ other location in Istanbul: Four Seasons at the Bosphorus. Set, as the name suggests, right on the strait that runs through the middle of the city, it allows for glorious views over the water from many of the rooms. A renovated 19th century Ottoman palace, the grand five star hotel is pretty impressive to look at itself too. The word splendor springs to mind. Rooms are beautiful, light and airy with squishy window seats and gargantuan beds. One night, during our stay, there was an incredible thunderstorm. We turned all the lights off, snuggled up on a window seat, and watched the sky for hours. Magic. In both Four Seasons locations, nappies, bubble bath, wipes and more were supplied in a handy – and much appreciated – basket of baby essentials.

One for the water babies, FS Bosphorus has an outdoor pool (although this was too cold for us to frequent in October) and an indoor pool, which welcomes children around the clock. Molly loved this, and the hot tub. When it comes to food, seafood restaurant Aqua is completely divine, as is Middle Eastern-inspired Ocakbasi. With tired children, though, the in-room dining options available were sublime. An extensive menu for both adults curious to try the local cuisine… and little ones hankering after a margarita pizza… were catered for.

Toys on arrival delighted the children, in-room games provided screen-free entertainment after a day of sightseeing, and a seemingly never-ending array of tasty treats appeared in the room. Prices from around £650.

What to do

Hagia Sofia

Cavernous. Majestic. Awe inspiring. The Hagia Sofia (Holy Wisdom) is the biggest must-do of Istanbul. A monumental building with a rich history, it was originally built as the greatest church of the Byzantine Empire in 537 AD, later converted into an Ottoman mosque after 1453, then a secular museum in 1934, and reconverted into a mosque in 2020, making it a significant cultural landmark representing centuries of religious and architectural evolution. It’s famous for its massive dome and stunning mosaics. As a working mosque, it is fascinating to behold, especially for the children. Visitors can walk around the gallery on the upper level to take it all in.

Blue Mosque

At a mere 400-odd years old, the Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque) is almost new in comparison to the Hagia Sofia – but the stunning building is also steeped in history. An iconic 17th-century imperial mosque, it’s famous for its stunning blue tiles, six minarets, and grand domes, blending traditional Islamic and Byzantine styles to create a masterpiece of Ottoman architecture, serving as both a historical landmark and an active place of worship.

Basilica Cistern

The Basilica Cistern was one of the places that took us most by surprise – it’s absolutely amazing. A massive, ancient (Roman) underground water reservoir built by the Byzantines in the 6th century to supply the Great Palace, it’s famous for its forest of marble columns, eerie lighting, Medusa head bases, and atmospheric setting that makes it a major tourist attraction. The cool location has served as a dramatic filming location for several major films – most famously the James Bond movie From Russia with Love (1963) and Inferno (2016) starring Tom Hanks.

Grand Bazaar

The Grand Bazaar (Kapalıçarşı) in Istanbul is one of the world’s oldest, largest, and most famous covered markets. A historic labyrinth of over 4,000 shops across 61 streets, selling everything from carpets, ceramics, and jewelry to spices, Turkish delights, and souvenirs, it attracts millions of visitors annually as a major cultural and commercial hub in the city’s heart. It’s known for its vibrant atmosphere, historic architecture, and the tradition of bargaining, making it a quintessential Istanbul experience. We bought spices to take home, and a stunning handcrafted bowl.

Turkish delight

No trip to Istanbul would be complete without a haul of Turkish delight. A traditional Middle Eastern confection made from a gel of sugar, starch (usually cornstarch), and water, it’s often flavored with rosewater, citrus, or mastic, and sometimes filled with nuts like pistachios or walnuts. These small, soft, jelly-like cubes are typically dusted with powdered sugar or coconut to prevent sticking and are served with coffee or tea as a sweet treat. Oh so very moreish – there are shops everywhere you look to try and buy.

Where to eat

Calakasik, Kadikoy

Kadikoy is one of Istanbul’s coolest neighbourhoods, with antique shops aplenty. And for the hungry, there’s Calakasik. A very unassuming-looking ‘local’ looking restaurant, it’s relaxed, lively and serves absolutely incredible Turkish food – canteen style. Come hungry and choose lots of dishes to share – try the zeama, kebabs and peka.

Deraliye Ottoman Cuisine

Michelin Guide 2025 recommended, Deraliye serves authentic, historical Ottoman palace dishes, featuring rich flavors from Turkish, Balkan, Middle Eastern, and Central Asian traditions, with unique recipes including goose kebab, stuffed fruits like apples/quince with minced meat, unique grape leaf wraps (sarma) with cherries, and traditional dips (muammara, babaganoush) alongside grilled meats, pastries, and rich desserts like Katmer . I had an exceptional lamb kebab, with onions, grilled tomatoes and peppers and rice. The kids had meatballs and loved them.

Muutto

An anatolian tapas bar sat by the side of the Bosphorus in a new development at Galataport cruise ship port. When there isn’t a boat, it’s a lovely place for a shop and a stroll, with loads of bars and eateries lining the waters edge. Serving modern Anatolian tapas (mezze) and street food, Muutto offers creative twists on traditional Turkish dishes like potato bravas, stuffed meatballs, octopus, lamb wraps, and unique items such as liver with halloumi, alongside homemade drinks and a focus on fresh, flavourful small plates for lunch and dinner. Even the dips were a work of art.

*For more on planning a trip to Türkiye, see Go Türkiye

*Return flights with Turkish Airlines or SunExpress from Manchester to Istanbul start from around £185 per person (checked November 2025). Flights take approximately 4 hours and 15 minutes.

READ MORE: I’m a family travel expert and these are the best things to do in Fethiye, south west Turkey, with kids

THE unspoilt coastlines of Cornwall are speckled with charming hotels whose exteriors have been weathered from the salty seas.

Few of these hotels have as fascinating a story to tell as The Wellington, though. Here’s everything you need to know.

Where is The Wellington?

The Wellington – named after Britain’s grand Duke of Wellington – is buried in the rugged valley of Cornwall’s Boscastle, overlooking a quaint harbour.

As with many Cornish hot spots, it’s not the easiest of places to reach by public transport, but that only adds to its charm.

Parking on site is limited but there’s a paid car park five minutes walk away which costs £7 for 24 hours, or you can just park for free on the street behind the property.

There is a bus stop a five-minute walk away.

FELL FOR IT

The Fellows House, Cambridge, Review

WELL FANCY

Stanwell House, Lymington, review

What is the hotel like?

This castle-like property, known as The Welly among locals, is one of the oldest coaching inns in Cornwall, although that may not be so obvious due to its recent facelift. 

Rooms still carry all the charm of 16th-century property but with modern amenities.

Expect grand chandeliers and pastel, striped wallpaper in communal dining areas, while downstairs you’ll find traditional bar stools under rustic wooden beams.

Rumour has it that the hotel is haunted. The property even appeared on tv show, Most Haunted, in 2004.

There have been murmurs of unusual sightings in room nine.

What are the rooms like at?

The 14 rooms, all on the upper floor, come with buckets of character, as you’d expect from any old and quintessentially British property.

Think tartan headboards, padded arm chairs and snuggly throws placed atop plump bedding.

It’s a listed building, so no two rooms are the same and each has an exceptionally cosy feel to it with local tea and biccies that make you feel as if you’re visiting a distant aunt (one who happens to have very chic taste).

Rooms cost from £145 per night on a B&B basis.

What is there to eat and drink there?

Elevated pub grub is what you’ll find here – fish and chips, a West Country beef burger and juicy steaks feature on the menu, as well as some veggie dishes like smoked tofu laksa (a popular item) and the simplicity burger, made with a mushroom, onion and beetroot patty.

The modern kitchen also whips up a cracking Sunday roast with all the trimmings and a very moreish gravy.

If it’s sunny, bag yourself one of the outdoor tables, with a view of the river, and sink some local ales.

Brekkie is as cosy as the rooms with help-yourself cold options and table service hot food.

Is The Wellington family friendly?

Very much so. Kids will love being so close to the river and snooping around the nearby Museum of Witchcraft and Magic

The apartments sleep two adults and at least two children, otherwise you can add an extra bed to the room for an additional charge.

Looking for a place to stay? For more hotel inspiration click here.

I PICK up what looks like a mini drumstick but is, in fact, a chicken lollipop.

Not any old lolly, mind, but one of celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay’s Hotter Than Hell specialities.

It smells scrumptious, but how hot is hot?

One brave bite later and the answer is clear: Proper fiery blast up the nostrils.

Delicious, though. More, please.

I’m at Heathrow Airport’s Terminal 5 for the launch of Gordon’s revamped, renamed restaurant, Plane Food Market.

AND RELAX

The sprawling country resort with a £10million spa and award-winning restaurant

FINAL TASTE

Top TV chef’s Michelin-starred restaurant to close after 17 years

He’s had a restaurant here since 2008 but it is now transformed.

You can still sit down and linger here as normal for a pre-flight meal.

But Ramsay has recognised that most of the 30million passengers who pass through T5 annually are more time-poor than ever, so he’s come up with a “grab and go” concept.

Diners can order at self-service screens in the restaurant’s entrance — as you might do in McDonald’s — then eat in the restaurant or take away.

He says: “The idea is that it will be ten minutes from ordering to table.”

The tables, incidentally, all have runway views.

But more importantly, what’s on the menu?

For the first time, you can find the best of Gordon’s crowd-pleasers all under one roof.

One counter serves his Asian favourites such as nigiri and spicy tuna roll — dishes you’ll find in his Lucky Cat restaurants.

Another has a range of burgers from his Street Burger bistros.

Not KFC, but GFC: Gordon’s Fried Chicken

There are also pizzas, fish and chips, all-day breakfasts, butter chicken curry, poke bowls, steaks, salads — you name it.

Gordon’s aim is to make eating here fun.

Quality ingredients

Indeed, he tells me his kids were having such a good time here ten days ago that they refused to board their plane.

We chat briefly about how we both have twins and how his eldest decided not to follow in Dad’s footsteps, but to instead join the police force.

And then he encourages me to taste some of his specials, all prepared in bite-size samples.

First up is another chicken dish.

Not KFC, but GFC: Gordon’s Fried Chicken.

Flights can be difficult, sometimes nerve-wracking. Getting a chance to eat before we board means we can get on that plane and relax

Gordon

It’s topped with a dollop of his curry and mango sauce and is superb — moist on the inside and with just the right amount of outer crispy crunch.

Next is his vegan ’Nduja Street Pizza, piled with gooey courgette ribbons, pesto and red onions.

As for the OGR Burger, it has so much flavour that it’s no surprise to learn it’s made from grass-fed Hereford beef.

But my favourite is the bao bun, oozing with shredded duck and hoisin sauce.

Gordon, who now has 31 restaurants in the UK and a further 61 globally, including in South Korea, Malaysia, France and Dubai, believes decent grub can ease the stress of flying.

He says: “Flights can be difficult, sometimes nerve-wracking. Getting a chance to eat before we board means we can get on that plane and relax.”

If a holiday really does begin the moment you’re airside, then starting a trip with a meal at Plane Food Market will set you off on the right foot.

Dishes are packed with quality ingredients and prices are around £18 for a pizza, burger or fish and chips. It’s cheaper if you grab and go.

I was not flying anywhere when I visited, but did take away a £9 portion of padron peppers for dinner at home.

Hours later, when I tucked in, they were still delicious.

Would I enjoy them before hopping on a flight? Absolutely. All I need to do now is book a holiday.

A HUGE new waterpark has opened in a very popular winter sun holiday destination.

The Grand Hyatt Dubai Resort opened its massive new water attraction last month.

Working with waterpark experts WhiteWater, the attraction is set across 20,000sqm.

A huge central swimming pool, as well as a wave pool are in the middle of the waterpark.

There are also 16 attractions, including two tower slides.

One, called Boomerang, lets up to six guests slide next to each other with a 90-degree slop and “zero-gravity wall”.

PLUGGED IN

Here’s what adaptor you need for travelling to Europe, the US, Dubai and beyond

FLIGHT OF FANTASY

Plans for ‘world’s largest airport’ with $35bn futuristic desert hub

Or there is Freefall Plus, where riders are launched at speed town the slide, as well as the dual-ride Aqua Twist and Parallel Pursit.

Otherwise you can also rent private luxury cabanas which have their own plunge pools.

The hotel’s managing director Fathi Khogaly said: “The opening of our new waterpark marks a significant milestone for Grand Hyatt Dubai, as it elevates our leisure offerings and transforms the property into a truly unique destination, where large-scale events, exceptional hospitality and unforgettable leisure experiences seamlessly come together.

The waterpark is currently only open to guests of the Grand Hyatt Dubai Resort.

Deals currently include seven nights, with breakfast and return flights, from £990pp via On The Beach, or rooms from £222 a night with Loveholidays.

However, non-guest access to the waterpark is soon to be rolled out.

In the meantime, the world’s biggest waterpark is also in Dubai.

Aquaventure Waterpark is on the edge of Palm Jumeriah and has huge over 105 slides, attractions and even a private beach.

Not only is it named the best thing to do in Dubai on Tripadvisor but it has the world’s largest dedicated kids zone with lagoon, slides, pools and fountains.

It costs 330 UAE (£72.12) to visit for the day, but sign up and you can visit for free if its your birthday (or six days before and after).

We went down to try the waterpark – here’s what to expect.

The world’s tallest wellness resort and waterpark is coming to Dubai too – here’s everything you need to know.

Yvette Coop[er has issued an alert and the Foreign Office has given advice

The Government has issued a travel warning for UK citizens after the terror attack in Australia. At least 12 people have been killed and 29 injured in a terrorist attack targeting a Jewish celebration at Bondi Beach in Sydney.

Two individuals armed with guns opened fire on a crowd in the Archer Park area of Bondi Beach at 6.47pm local time on Sunday, New South Wales Police said. The attack has been declared a terrorist incident targeting a Hanukkah celebration at a park next to the beach on the first day of the Jewish festival of lights, the force confirmed.

New South Wales Premier Chris Minns told a press conference: “At approximately 6.47 this evening, two individuals began firing on crowded a group of families on Bondi Beach at Archer Park. I very sadly need to report that, as of now, there are at least 12 individuals that have been killed.

“This attack was designed to target Sydney’s Jewish community on the first day of Hanukkah, what should have been a night of peace and joy celebrated in that community with families and supporters, has been shattered by this horrifying evil attack.”

Police in the UK are stepping up patrols in Jewish communities. A Met Police spokesman said: “While there is no information to suggest any link between the attack in Sydney and the threat level in London, this morning we are stepping up our police presence, carrying out additional community patrols and engaging with the Jewish community to understand what more we can do in the coming hours and days.

“We always encourage the public to be vigilant at events and in public places. If you see anything suspicious, trust your instincts and tell us.”

Hanukkah, also known as Chanukah, is an eight-day festival of light usually observed in December.

Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper has told any British people caught up in the Bondi Beach shooting to contact the consulate for support.

In a post on X, she said: “The scenes from Bondi Beach are deeply shocking and distressing. My thoughts are with everyone affected and Australia’s emergency services.

“British nationals should follow local police and authorities’ advice and can contact the British Consulate General Sydney for support.”

The UK Foreign Office site reads: “Terrorists are likely to try to carry out attacks in Australia.” It adds: ” There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.”

The Foreign Office said: ” Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreign nationals. You should be vigilant, keep up to date with local media reports and follow the advice of local authorities.”

BEING spat on by a walrus, ­shaking my backside with a chipmunk and having Peter Pan declare me an “honorary Lost Boy” isn’t usually how I spend my days.

But all of it happened to me, and more, when I visited Walt Disney World in ­Florida for the first time.

Prior to this, I’d only made it to Disneyland Paris when I was a child, despite a lot of begging to my parents.

But I’m happy to report it was worth the wait.

And new attractions are being added to the park continuously, so even if you have been before, no two visits are the same.

Last month saw the launch of 4D animated show Zootopia: Better Zoogether!, just weeks before Zootopia 2 started its run at cinemas.

WAIL OF A TIME

I drove Irish Route 66 with deserted golden beaches and pirate-like islands

TEMPTED?

Tiny ‘Bali of Europe’ town with stunning beaches, €3 cocktails and £20 flights

Based in the Tree Of Life Theatre — under the roots of the 145ft tree at the centre of Animal Kingdom — the ­ten-minute show features wind, water and sudden seat move­ments as you watch the 3D short film.

Created by the same animators behind the popular 2016 movie Zootopia, it features beloved characters Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde, as well as new critters from the sequel.

Explaining the ride, Executive Creative Director of Walt Disney Imagineering, Chris Beatty, told me: “At its core, the show is Animal Kingdom based. This park is so unique, it’s very clear on what it’s trying to say and be.

“Nature and the interconnectedness of all things. That’s what it’s all about. Together we are stronger.”

But the magic is far more than this new show. It was like time had never passed since my first visit to Disney’s Paris resort, as I fully allowed my inner-child to take hold.

Mickey-shaped waffles for breakfast? Tick. Mickey-shaped ice cream sandwich? Tick. Coming back to your room to find the belongings you discarded haphazardly in a rush laid out neatly in the shape of Mickey? Tick.

Set across four theme parks — Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom — it’s impossible to underplay how vast Walt Disney World is.

While Disney is, at its heart, a theme park packed with rides for thrill-seekers of all ages, for me the magic is, and will always be, found in the characters.

As we wandered through Frontierland — Magic Kingdom’s Wild West-themed area — we bumped into Toy Story’s Jessie, who was running about in between the buildings and playfully engaging in hide and seek with some children — never once breaking character mode.

Mary Poppins and chimney sweep Bert were also dancing down Main Street, USA, as families checked out the shops and snacked on Mickey-shaped sweet treats.

During my family visits to Paris as a child, I was obsessed with collecting autographs from each character.

And prior to my trip to Florida, I feared this wholesome trend might have fallen by the wayside in favour of selfies on phones. But I couldn’t have been more wrong.

Kids still line up, pen and autograph book in hand, to meet their idols in an age-old Disney tradition.

In fact, as we enjoyed a character ­dining experience at Magic Kingdom’s Crystal Palace with Winnie the Pooh and friends, I didn’t see a single child ask for a selfie.

Instead, they gazed longingly at their cartoon friends as they held out their arms for a hug or an autograph book to sign.

I have zero shame in admitting that I queued up to meet Mickey Mouse at the Town Square Theater at the entrance to the Magic Kingdom, as well as patiently waiting in line to recreate a childhood image of me hugging Pluto, 25 years later.

Then, over in the Animal Kingdom theme park, I spotted Pocahontas casually posing for photos with excited fans, and Donald Duck hosting a meet and greet with his own admirers.

This particular park is also home to arguably one of the best rides at Disney — Avatar Flight of Passage.

With standard queue times of around an hour, the attraction takes immersive rides to a new level.

Its seriously intense drops and tricks make it feel like you are flying on the back of a native mountain banshee (a dragon-esque creature) across the breathtaking landscape of Pandora, from the James Cameron-directed box office blockbusters.

While I loved the first film, released in 2009, I can’t say I’m a huge Avatar fan, having seen the second film, 2022’s The Way Of Water, only once.

But I challenge anyone not to be blown away by the ride and want to have a go on it again — whether they have seen the movies or not.

In fact, planning your rides and navigating the parks is simple thanks to the very useful Disney app.

Most jaw-dropping

It gives you up-to-date queue times for the main rides, a live map of your location and directions on how to get to your next attraction, as well as wait times for character interactions.

It was through the app that I was able to orchestrate a meet with the main mouse himself, Mickey, with just a 15-minute wait time.

Once inside, I was pleasantly surprised to discover the staff — or cast members, as Disney calls them — are more than happy to record videos or take pictures on your phone, despite the official shots also being available.

And for those worried about being slapped with a huge phone data bill like me, fear not.

All the Disney parks are equipped with free wifi, including on the complimentary shuttle buses between hotels and parks.

If you were in any doubt that Disney doesn’t do things by halves, check out one of the many nightly firework shows.

Surprisingly, the one at Epcot was the most jaw-dropping of my trip — clearly the area feels it has to go the extra mile as, unlike Magic Kingdom, it doesn’t have the Cinderella Castle to attract ­visitors.

Its extravaganza, called Luminous: The Symphony Of Us, boasts fireworks, music, lasers and dancing fountains.

A top tip I discovered is that if you’ve already seen the Magic Kingdom fireworks and find yourself in the park at 9pm, ride queues fall dramatically.

I spotted Pirates Of The Caribbean and Tiana’s Bayou Adventure drop from a usual wait time of 50-plus minutes to just five minutes — as did meeting Mickey Mouse at the Town Hall.

At Hollywood Studios, the Fantasmic Show, set on a lake at the top of Hollywood Boulevard and featuring characters and fireworks, was the ideal ending to my Disney adventure.

Walt Disney once said: “We are not trying to entertain the critics. I’ll take my chance with the public.”

But consider this critic highly entertained.

This beautiful Christmas market has been dubbed one of the “most beautiful” in Europe thanks to its picturesque backdrop and winter atmosphere as travellers are left “in tears” at sight of it

If you are tired of the expensive Christmas markets nestled amongst city squares, this beautiful location could be your answer to feeling extra festive this season. The Ravenna Gorge Christmas Market offers something very different.

Hidden deep in the Black Forest’s Höllental (Hell Valley), this market doesn’t rely on medieval town halls for its backdrop. Instead, it is nestled in a steep, wooded canyon beneath a towering stone viaduct. The magic happens when the sun sets.

The massive stone arches of the railway bridge are illuminated in shifting violets, blues, and reds. Every twenty minutes or so, a regional train rumbles overhead, looking like a toy train in the distance, while snow (often reliable here) dusts the wooden huts below.

READ MORE: Christmas turkeys have talent – wowing farmers as they jingle bells and tap tambourinesREAD MORE: Where is hot and sunny in January – the destinations not to miss

Travellers Claudia and Kaan, from Toronto, US, visited the German market last week and were shocked when they stumbled upon the picture-perfect scene.

The couple wrote on their TikTok video: “We nearly cried. Tucked deep in the Black Forest with a massive stone viaduct glowing above you is one of Europe’s most beautiful Christmas Markets.”

Those who have visited have argued it’s one of the most romantic markets, with the isolation of the gorge meaning no background city noise and a backdrop of brass bands, the crunch of snow and the murmur of the crowd.

It’s also less busy than most Christmas markets thanks to its ticketed system and timed entry, avoiding the dangerous overcrowding seen at major markets like Cologne or Munich.

2025 Guide

Dates & Opening Hours

The market is only open on weekends (Fri-Sun) during Advent.

• Dates: Nov 28 – Dec 21, 2025
• Fridays: 3:00 PM – 9:00 PM
• Saturdays: 2:00 PM – 9:00 PM
• Sundays: 2:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Ticket Prices (2025 Estimates)

Entry is strictly ticketed. You cannot buy tickets at the gate.

• Adults: €6.50/£5.71 (entry before 4 PM) / €8.50/£7.46 (entry after 4 PM)
• Children (6-15): Free entry (but may need a shuttle ticket)
• Golden Rule: Tickets go on sale in mid-October (usually Oct 14th). Set an alarm; the evening slots sell out within days.

How to Get There

Due to its remote location, you can’t drive up to the market gate. Private parking is non-existent at the gorge itself for general visitors.

1. The Shuttle Bus

Most visitors take the shuttle bus. When you buy your market ticket online, you must select your shuttle departure point.

• From Hinterzarten or Himmelreich: These are the main shuttle hubs with parking lots and train stations. You park there (or arrive by train) and take the 10-minute bus ride.
• From Freiburg: There is a direct shuttle from Freiburg main station (approx 30 mins).
• Cost: Approx. €24/£21 (includes market entry and roundtrip bus). This is the stress-free “VIP” option if you are staying in the city.

2. The Winter Hike

For the full Black Forest experience, skip the bus and walk.

• The Route: Park in Hinterzarten and hike the Löffeltal path.
• Details: It is a paved, cleared winter hiking trail that takes about 45–60 minutes. It is downhill/flat on the way there.
• Torchlight: Many visitors bring headlamps or torches for the walk back, though the shuttle is a welcome sight for tired legs on the return journey.

Food and drink

The market hosts around 40 wooden chalets. The focus here is strictly regional, meaning local delicacies and small businesses.

A cup of mulled wine can be as cheap as €5/£4.30, while food costs vary.

• Wildschweinbratwurst: Wild boar sausage, a specialty of the forest.
• Flammlachs: Salmon smoked over an open fire on wooden planks.
• Black Forest Ham: Sold by the slab to take home.
• Glühwein: The mulled wine here is excellent, often made from local Badischer wine.
• Dünnele: A regional flatbread similar to Flammkuchen, topped with sour cream, bacon, and onions.

Tips for visiting

• Dress for the cold: The gorge traps cold air. It will be significantly colder here than in nearby Freiburg. Wear thermal boots; you will be standing on snow or frozen gravel for hours.
• Cash to hand: While some vendors take cards, signal in the gorge is spotty. Bring plenty of Euro coins and small bills.
• The “Magic Hour”: Book the 4pm-6pm slot. You arrive in twilight to see the gorge features, and by 5:00 PM, the lights are fully on for the complete experience.

READ MORE: Brits told to look out for rare penny coin worth more than £2,000

IF you want the Croatia holiday without the crowds, then you need to ditch the popular islands for their quieter neighbours.

One of those is Korčula, right by Hvar and Dubrovnik.

Yet despite being easy to get to – via a short boat from the mainland – it is often overlooked by tourists.

The main place to visit is Korcula Town, nicknamed ‘Little Dubrovnik’.

It’s here where you’ll find the Marco Polo museum, with rumours that the famous figure was born on the island, when it was part of the Republic of Venice in 1254.

Make sure to grab a glass of Grk too – a white wine made on the island that you can’t get anywhere else.

SUNNY SWITCH

I ditched ‘miserable’ UK for sunny Croatia – bills are 33% less

NOT BA-D

British Airways launches £1 flights to Croatia, Greece and Spain with a catch

If you love a gimmick, head up the Massimo Bar, which is on the rooftop of a 15th-century turret.

Guests can climb by ladder, before their drinks are served to them byb pulley system.

Otherwise if you are more of a beer fan, pints can be found for under £3.

You might even spot some Moreska, a local sword dance on the island.

But the beaches are also worth a visit, not just for some time to swim.

Earlier this year, loggerhead turtles were spotted hatching on Pržina Beach on the island, before they headed out to see.

Even without the turtle spotting, the beach is one of the largest and most popular on the island, especially families.

And if you want some more of the luxury holiday lifestyle, head over to Korčula’s Vrink islet.

Accessible by water taxi, this is where you spot some of the celebs hanging out.

Everyone from Beyoncé and Jay-Z to Matthew McConaughey and Woody Harrelson have previously been spotted there.

Jet2 has a number of holidays for under £700 each on the island too, which come with seven nights and return flights.

Otherwise you can fly to Dubrovnik for around £15 with Ryanair, followed by a two hour ferry ride to the island.

Here is another Croatia island to add to your travel list.

And we’ve rounded up 20 of the best islands in Europe which have direct flights.

A travel blogger has shared three affordable European cities ideal for winter city breaks, which also stick to tight budgets

Winter has officially arrived and amidst the Christmas chaos, it might be time to consider a short getaway. We’ve still got a fair stretch until summer, which is the prime travel season.

But there’s no need to hold out for the warmer months to enjoy a budget-friendly escape from the UK. If you’re keen on embracing the winter vibes, a travel blogger has revealed her top three European cities that are ideal for a short trip.

Plus, they’re all quite affordable, so your wallet can breathe easy. TikTok travel enthusiast emsbudgettravel has divulged her top three budget-friendly destinations from the UK.

Em sets herself a £200 limit per country she visits, which she assures you’ll be able to adhere to as well. Her first recommendation is Yerevan in Armenia, which she declares as one of her favourites.

Em elaborated: “It is perfect on a budget. You can find really cheap connecting flights here and I recommend combining this city break with an overnight stop over in a city like Milan or Rome.”

“This is an amazing option if you are on a budget. The accommodation is so affordable, we got this apartment overlooking the city’s main tourist attraction for £12 each per night.

“And, the metro costs just 20p per journey. It is also surrounded by beautiful mountains and scenery and is cheap to take a day trip out of the city to visit.”

She also recommended Poznan in Poland, which she claimed rivals more renowned destinations like Krakow. Em continued: “My next destination has a beautiful old town and the food is also delicious and affordable.

“There’s loads to do on a budget like the Palm House or this amazing spa, which is the largest in the country and costs just £16 for a three-hour pass.

“I thought this was such an underrated Polish city, just as good as the more popular city breaks like Krakow and Gdansk. But, I actually found it to be a little bit cheaper.”

Her final winter getaway recommendation is Tallinn, Estonia. Em revealed: “The final recommendation is in the Baltic region of Europe with really affordable flights recently. It probably is one of the most picturesque cities I have visited.

“It is also really affordable for accommodation. We recently paid £21 each to split this Airbnb in the centre of Old Town.

“It’s one of Europe’s best preserved Medieval cities and every street is so photogenic. I’d say this is the perfect destination for a snowy weekend away and I have also heard it’s got a lovely Christmas market.”

WE know Stephen Mulhern as a cheeky chappy TV host with a warm smile who is quick with a gag.

But when his mates Ant and Dec challenged him to make a travelogue, Stephen — best known for TV shows Saturday Night Takeaway, Deal Or No Deal and In For A Penny — was terrified.

Because what people probably don’t know about the 48-year-old is that he has lived, in his own words, a very sheltered life.

And of all the destinations Ant and Dec could have picked for him to visit in their new ITV show, Accidental Tourist, South Korea would be the most challenging one.

What is, in places, a funny entertainment show, turned into a life-changingly emotional experience for Stephen, not least because he had recently lost his father Christopher.

He says: “The idea of doing something out of my comfort zone was terrifying, but recently I feel I’ve wasted a lot of time doing the same things.

READ MORE ON STEPHEN MULHERN

MAGIC MAN

Stephen Mulhern on dad’s ‘tough’ passing & how he set him up for stardom

back on the box

Full line-up for You Bet revealed as Holly Willoughby returns to ITV

“I’ve thrown myself into work for so many years that I’ve never really gone, ‘Let’s try something new’.

“So when Ant and Dec suggested this, I thought, ‘I’m going to really go for it’.

“It’s taught me a lot. I thought it would just be an experience that lasted for as long as it took to make the show, but it’s actually changed my life.”

Stephen has always stuck to the familiar, like eating roast dinners and holidaying on the Med.

Fear of the unknown has stopped him from ever swimming in the sea or eating mayonnaise.

So when Ant and Dec lined up a host of Korean challenges — including eating octopus and doing a naked sauna — Stephen panicked.

“It exposed so many fears,” he says. “But sometimes you’ve got to break patterns, because otherwise you’ll never grow. It’s too easy to say, ‘This feels comfortable’.

“For example, I’ve always eaten bland food like steak and chips, roast dinners.

“But although I didn’t like a lot of the Korean food, some of it was quite nice. And now I’ve got chilli flakes in my cupboard!”

Born in Stratford, east London, Stephen grew up with market trader parents Christopher and Maureen and siblings Vince, Chris and Susie.

Holidays were in seaside resorts such as Margate, or Butlin’s parks.

He says: “They were the best times. We’re a very working-class family: I worked from the age of 11 in Petticoat Lane with my family and we’d save up enough money to play the penny arcade machines or whatever.”

It’s understandable, then, that Stephen felt pushed out of his comfort zone when he went to Korea.

One particularly moving scene shows him wading into the sea to hand dive for fish with locals. He ends up in anxious tears and almost doesn’t go through with it, telling the producers to stop.

“I’ve never in my life felt anxiety like it,” he admits.

“But I felt so triumphant at the end when I’d done it. It was a very special moment.

“I’ve never got emotional on TV. There are times where I listen to contestants’ stories on Deal Or No Deal where I feel emotional inside, especially when my dad passed away.

“But with this, you can physically see how upset I was.

“Dec’s wife Ali said she could really feel my pain when she watched it.

“This is the most real travelogue you’re likely to see. It’s exposing because it’s the real me, not me as a host, and I’ve never done that before.

“So for the audiences that normally watch my shows, it’s going to be a bit of a curveball.”

Since returning home, Stephen says he feels more relaxed and less anxious. He is also willing to try for further adventures and is considering more travel.

He adds: “I’ve never been so nervous about doing a show but about a week later I realised I was feeling different about everything, and I’m so pleased I did it.”

• Stephen Mulhern: Accidental Tourist is on ITV1 and ITVX from today.

NEXT year, England will be home to the world’s longest coastal path.

The King Charles III England Coast Path sweeps across the country through pretty seaside towns from the north to the south of the UK.

Whether it’s summer or winter, walks are a popular way to explore the coastline – and this walk will make it a lot easier too.

Brits have probably already started exploring the King Charles III England Coast Path as over two thirds are open to the public already.

When it’s completed, which is set to be in spring 2026, the coastal path will be the longest of its kind in the world at 2,700-miles long.

Hikers travel from its northernmost point in Berwick-upon-Tweed all the way down to Land’s End in Cornwall.

SNOW WAY

All the best Xmas days out under £10 including FREE ice skating & Santa’s grotto

CHRIMBO WIN

Enter these travel comps before Xmas to win £2k holidays, ski trips & spa stays

Time Out even named it as ‘one of the best new things to do in the world in 2026’.

Time Out’s UK news editor Ed Cunningham said: “The trail, which has been in the works since way back 2009, will follow the entire coastline of England, spanning 2,674 miles (4,303 km) of cliffs, beaches, cities, national parks and more. Once complete, it’ll be the longest (managed) coastal trail in the entire world.

“More than just a few signposts, the King Charles III Coastal Path will link up legendary seaside spots with stretches of coast that have never before been properly accessible.”

There are still works underway including Silverdale to Cleveleys in Lancashire.

Another section yet to be finished is Combe Martin to Marsland Mouth in Devon and the path connecting Wootton Bridge to the Medina on the Isle of Wight.

There are plenty of beautiful spots around the UK where you can pause along the coastal path to take in the sights of some of the prettiest seaside towns.

Depending on where you live, the walk starts, or ends on Berwick-upon-Tweed and along that stretch of Northumberland coast are beautiful beaches and little towns.

Northumberland was voted a trending county of 2025 with spots like Embleton Bay and Low Newton-by-the-Sea being sought out by travellers.

Further down in the East of England are pretty seaside towns like Cromer, which is a favourite of Travel Reporter Alice Penwill thanks to its plentiful pubs and Victorian Pier.

Down in Kent, the path wraps around from Margate, to Broadstairs and down to Folkestone – Deputy Travel Editor Kara Godfrey has plenty of recommendations of what to do there.

Further south are the classic towns of Brighton, Worthing and Bognor Regis – as well as the Isle of Wight.

Then the coastal path wraps around to Durdle Door which was named as one of the most iconic and must-see beaches in the world by National Geographic.

It’s a favourite of Assistant Travel Editor Sophie Swietochowski who says “the horseshoe-shaped pebble bay has turquoise waters that could rival those in the Caribbean” – during the summer of course.

Along the South West Atlantic path is the most southern point at Land’s End, it then heads through Penzance, Newquay and Bude – all the way up to Bristol.

Turning the corner, it heads from Liverpool up to the Lake District passing along seaside towns like Ravenglass, Seascale and Workington.

Natural England has aimed to keep the path as continuous as possible – although there are sections hikers simply can’t walk through.

For example, Brits will need to board a ferry to cross the Mersey.

For more costal paths, Travel Reporter Cyann Fielding is a Devon local and reveals what The Salt Path movie doesn’t show about the South West Coast Path.

Plus, here are the UK’s best seaside walks revealed including a secret celeb-loved island.

A new service could welcome direct trains from London to major German cities, making it even easier to explore Europe and visit their famed Christmas markets

Proposals for a fresh high-speed rail link connecting Britain and Germany could make future festive market getaways simpler than ever before.

At present, Brits hoping to reach Cologne or Frankfurt via Eurostar must change trains at either Brussels or Paris, turning the journey into a several-hour trek fraught with the hassle of switching services. But direct trains between these destinations are now “one step closer” to reality, following a memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed this week between Eurostar and Deutsche Bahn (DB), Germany’s national railway operator.

This development could see high-speed links between London and key German cities operational as soon as 2030. The service would deploy Eurostar’s new double-decker Celestia fleet, which offers significantly increased passenger capacity along the route, reports the Express.

Suggested itineraries include a direct London to Cologne service that takes four hours, and a London to Frankfurt connection completed in five hours, providing a swift and comfortable alternative to air travel. In a statement, Keir Starmer said: “This brings us one step closer to a new rail link that will put Britain at the heart of a better-connected Europe and paves the way for increased trade, tourism and investment.”

A direct service would allow Brits to access beloved destinations such as Germany’s famous Christmas markets more easily, without requiring air travel. Frankfurt Christmas Market, one of the oldest in the country and a favourite among tourists, dazzles with its half-timbered buildings in Römerberg and Paulsplatz town squares, adorned with festive lights.

Alongside the main market, smaller themed markets operate during Advent, including the Frankfurt Artists’ Christmas Market and the new Frankfurt Children’s Christmas Market, featuring trees decorated by children, storytelling tents, entertainment, and child-friendly food.

Cologne, with its multiple Christmas markets spread across the city, would undoubtedly become a popular destination for Brits given a direct Eurostar link. The Cologne Cathedral Market, located in Roncalliplatz, offers a traditional German market experience and is the most frequented.

The Harbour Christmas Market also attracts many visitors, boasting a massive Ferris wheel that provides panoramic views of the Rhine.

Earlier this year, it was revealed that Eurostar plans to introduce direct services from London to Geneva, connecting the British capital with one of Switzerland’s key financial centres. The BBC reported over the summer that this new link could reduce travel time between London and Geneva to just five hours.

However, concerns were raised about whether Eurostar’s East London depot had sufficient space to accommodate the larger trains needed for such continental journeys.

Eurostar is also facing fresh competition from rival operators keen to launch UK-to-Europe rail services, including Virgin, which revealed in October that it was “on track” to introduce its own Channel Tunnel operation. The competing service plans to link London St Pancras International with Paris, Brussels, and Amsterdam by 2030, with ambitions to extend to additional European destinations thereafter.

Do you have a travel story to share? Email webtravel@reachplc.com