Longtail

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.

MICKEY ROURKE is trying to get his movie career back on track – despite his Celebrity Big Brother disgrace.

The veteran Hollywood star was booted off the ITV reality show earlier this year for his “unacceptable behaviour.”

But luckily for Mickey his name has been linked to two big-screen biopics.

One is about the life of Black Sabbath legend Ozzy Osbourne while another will be on US country legend Johnny Cash.

One of my Hollywood insiders said Mickey’s name had repeatedly come up in meetings about the films when discussions turned to casting the older versions of the music legends.

They told me: “Producers here don’t even know about the Celebrity Big Brother thing, Mickey is golden in the States.

read more on mickey rourke

ON THE EDGE

CBB’s JoJo Siwa reveals unaired row with Mickey Rourke that left her ‘shook up’

CBB BAD BOY

Mickey Rourke’s CBB ‘game plan’ revealed by co-star after he refused to unpack

“This town also loves an underdog, and movie bosses think Mickey still has an Oscar-worthy performance they can wring out of him.

“He was a top actor back in the day — he would have been on a par with James Dean and Marlon Brando if he hadn’t taken wrong turns and gone down a bad path.

If the evil overlords of Hollywood give us the green light we could be filming in the spring

Jack Osbourne

“There are scripts in the pipeline on Ozzy and Johnny, and Mickey’s name has come up in meetings about both projects.

“They want to portray Ozzy’s final days before that amazing show at Villa Park, and they want a performance like Mickey gave in The Wrestler.

“They’re confident he could do it.”

It’s understood streaming giants Amazon MGM and Apple are interested in both projects, with big-name directors in the frame to oversee it — including Martin Scorsese.

Ozzy’s son Jack Osbourne first told me they were working on a film about his dad’s life before Ozzy’s homecoming show back in July.

Jack said: “We do have the film on the way. We have a lot of good forward momentum on the Ozzy biopic.

“We have a director attached now and the script is done and Sony Studios is going to be producing it.

“We are really excited about it so maybe we will do the premiere here in Birmingham.

“If the evil overlords of Hollywood give us the green light we could be filming in the spring so maybe it will be out summer 2027 — fingers crossed.”

I’m sure Mickey will be crossing his toes, as well as his fingers, that he gets the part.

JAMIE LEE: IT’S FREAKIER ONLINE

HER long-awaited sequel to 2003’s Freaky Friday – imaginatively titled Freakier Friday – went down a storm with fans.

And Hollywood legend Jamie Lee Curtis says she knows exactly why we are seeing a resurgence in sequels and prequels.

Speaking to comedian Geoff Norcott on this Times Radio show, Jamie said: “Nostalgia is very hot right now.

“Because people are feeling so freaked out by what’s happening that you cling, you cling to nostalgia to make you feel safe.”

Jamie, whose new film Ella McCay is out now, went on to slam cancel culture and attacks on free speech.

She added: “We’re all trying to figure out, what can we say? What can’t we say?

“The echo chamber is awful. Social media is awful. You say something that you believe in, you get hammered for it. I mean, hardcore.

“It’s hard to hold on to both the frustration you’re feeling but the sense of optimism and hope.

“I feel hope because I believe that the hatred is imploding, and I think we’re seeing it.”

IT’S STAR SHREK

THE life of a Bizarre reporter isn’t all red carpets and bubbly – sometimes you end up in a swamp with an ogre and a talking donkey.

Our Jack was invited backstage at the latest adaptation of Shrek: The Musical at Colchester’s Charter Hall to meet the cast before they kicked off their near sold-out run at the venue.

With Red Dwarf’s Danny John Jules as Donkey and CITV’s Chris Edgerley as Lord Farquaad, the show is based on the hit 2001 film starring Mike Myers and Eddie Murphy.

Shrek and Princess Fiona are played by Joseph Rawlings and Rachel Jerram.

A refreshing change from the annual festive panto, the cast delivered a brilliant version of the big screen hit with a seriously impressive set to match.

Shout out to Ceris Hine as the perfectly executed Gingy, delivering our favourite Gingerbread Man performance of the year.

Chatting backstage about playing the pint-sized villain, Chris explained how spending the show on his knees left him in agony at times.

He said: “I’m a lot taller than Farquaad so I’m knee-padded up to the hilt but it’s worth it.

“Halfway through rehearsals we had to add extra padding as it was hurting too much.

“Hopefully the audience will have as much fun as we do.”

Unlike the fairytale dictator, this musical certainly doesn’t come up short.

JAMIE’S SO FESTIVE

Jamie Cullum: The Pianoman At Christmas @ Royal Albert Hall, London

★★★★★

THERE’S nothing more festive than a trip to London’s Royal Albert Hall at Christmas – although a Jamie Cullum show there beats anything else to get you in the spirit.

Inspired by his criminally underrated 2020 album The Pianoman At Christmas, his two-hour seasonal spectacle, backed by a big band – “this is what expensive musicians sound like,” he half-joked – was an absolute treat.

And soon there will be more. He said of himself and wife Sophie Dahl : “We are trying to write the film of the Pianoman At Christmas.

“I told her I was going to announce it tonight so now we have to finish it.”

His voice is as smooth as a pricey whiskey and sounded just as great doing his original numbers as it did with family favourites Frosty The Snowman and Jingle Bells.

And as for Hang Your Lights, it deserves to be a modern Christmas classic.

Forget the turkey and mistletoe, Jamie Cullum’s annual festive show should be a staple of everyone’s Christmas.

HOWELL DAVIES

LILY’S SKIT ON STRANGER FLINGS

DAVID HARBOUR has another TV show to avoid, after his ex-wife Lily Allen called up Dakota Johnson to bring her infamous “Madeline” to life on Saturday Night Live.

During the show, Lily performed her explosive track Tennis – with Dakoka playing the “other woman” Madeline.

At the end of Lily’s performance, Dakota brought Madeline to life and appeared to reveal for the first time what this other woman may have told Lily about allegedly getting with David behind her back.

Dakota said: “I hate that you’re in so much pain right now.

“I really don’t want to be the cause of any upset.

“He told me that you were aware this was going on and that he had your full consent.

“’If he’s lying about that, then please let me know.

“Because I have my own feelings about dishonesty. Lies are not something that I want to get caught up in.”

Dakota then planted a kiss on Lily’s cheek as she said: “Love and light, Madeline.”

JEFF Brazier has admitted that he’s “spending time reflecting on life” after his split from his wife and ongoing family feud.

The This Morning star, 46, who split from wife Kate Dwyer, 35, after seven years of marriage was taking a time out in St Kitts.

Jeff took to Instagram and posted a series of beautiful snaps, with one showing the star standing alone on a sandy beach staring out at a gorgeous sunset

He captioned the snap: “Just had the perfect week in St Kitts thanks to @stkittstourism.

“Celebrating the sunshine and time to reflect on life & work while spending time with the team filming for one of our big @itvwin January competitions.

“Thank you to @mickarchy @roscoyule PB & Anita for being such great company and doing a really top class job.

FEUD OVER

The BRUTAL threat which terrified Jeff Brazier into truce with gran over Freddy

‘MASK SLIPPING’

The growing fears over ‘fame-hungry’ Jeff Brazier after shock TV outburst

He then posted some recommendations based on his stay before he said: “Don’t forget to check out the Atlantic and Carribean views from Timothy Hill Overlook.”

Jeff announced he had split from his wife, Kate back in November.

In an emotional statement, Jeff said: “I’m so full of love and gratitude for Kate.

“For all we achieved, for how much we grew, for everything we endured.

“We separated in the Summer and kept it private for as long as we could to give us some time to adjust.

“For 12 years we have been each others safe space, each others biggest supporters at a time when our lives have been busy, painful & complex.

“I’m so proud of how hard we worked, how we kept showing up, we gave everything and more.

“I’m also so full of respect and admiration for the successful career Kate has built and the way she cared for me unconditionally.

“It’s credit to the woman she is that she still checks in to ask how the boys are doing because she is so invested in their lives.

“They love her and I have many friends that love her too. I will miss her family who always went above and beyond to support us.

“My words don’t tell the full picture because they don’t need to.

“We will carry on supporting each other and I know I’ll be celebrating her inevitable wins just like before.

“We both deserve complete happiness and we’re upset that we ultimately couldn’t be that for one another and It felt time to let it go.”

Last week The Sun revealed that his son Freddy was embroiled in a furious row with his pregnant ex girlfriend over their baby’s future.

The 21-year-old is facing devastating consequences before his first child is even born as he continues to clash with Holly Swinburn, 22.

Freddy — son of late Big Brother legend Jade Goody — risks not being on the birth certificate after their latest fallout.

Sources claim they’re at loggerheads over custody of their shared dog, an American Bully named Pablo.

Holly has been accused of backing Freddy into a corner – as she threatens to block him being legally named as the father of her child.

As the former couple are not married, Freddy’s name can’t be automatically included on the birth certificate.

Holly spoke to The Sun on Sunday about why her relationship ended, claiming she dumped him after he held a 3am drugs party with girls at her home while she was away.

Meanwhile, Jeff is still involved in an ongoing family feud between him and the late Jade Goody’s mum Jackiey Budden.

But reports reveal that he has “landed a new fly-on-the-wall reality show” with his sons Bobby and Freddy that allow the Brazier family to set the record straight on a number of things.

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.

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.

HE held back tears in his Netflix documentary when he heard about the tragic death of One Direction star Liam Payne.

And I can reveal that, as a mark of respect, Simon Cowell sent the emotional footage from The Next Act to Liam’s family and his ex Cheryl Tweedy before it aired this week.

The six-parter sees Simon searching for the next big boyband after the record-breaking success of 1D on the X Factor in 2010.

After the series dropped on Wednesday, the music mogul said he felt he “had to tell” Liam’s loved ones his passing was acknowledged on the show.

Simon said: “In the middle, there was that moment with Liam, which was just horrific. That really threw us. I was very close to him and that was hard. We almost stopped filming. I had to go away, clear my head.

“We took a break for about two weeks. Before that it had been almost every day. I sent [parts of episode three] to Liam’s parents and Cheryl to see, for obvious reasons, and I said, ‘Look, I don’t want you to just see it when it airs’.

READ MORE ON SIMON COWELL

ex factor

Inside Simon Cowell’s biggest flops from girlband blunder to axed £15m TV show

next move

Simon Cowell reveals he’s planning wild TV show that will ‘disgust’ viewers

‘Made a promise’

“And so the production company sent it to them and they were fine with it. It was respectful, I think.”

The Next Act had been filming almost daily since December 2023, allowing cameras access to Simon’s talent hunt.

But he paused to consider if they should continue after Liam’s death in Buenos Aires, Argentina in October last year.

Liam and Cheryl, who were together for two years, share a son Bear, eight.

Simon said of Liam in the episode: “He was just so normal and down to earth, he always had a sparkle in his eye.

“Everyone adored him. You don’t know how you feel about someone until you lose them. I am going to genuinely miss him.”

After the two-week break, Simon said he realised he had made the show hopefuls “a promise”, so filming resumed.

The group, DECEMBER 10, have just signed a deal with EMI/Universal.

I was lucky enough to watch John, Cruz, Nicolas, Sean, Josh, Danny and Hendrik at a top-secret playback in London on Wednesday.

From what I saw, these boys will do Simon proud.

Lily’s Vic and Bob

LILY COLLINS has had a Posh makeover for the fifth series of Netflix’s Emily In Paris.

The actress has channelled Victoria Beckham’s Spice Girl alter ego for the series, which kicks off on Thursday.

Director Andy Fleming told Biz on Sunday: “There is for sure a Posh Spice vibe going on this season. I noticed it straight away. I mean, her bob. Hello?”

It comes after Lily was stunned to meet her idol Victoria on the set of The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon.

Looks like this season will be full of girl power.

Grinch must be feeling Jaded

JADE THIRLWALL doesn’t do fancy dress by halves.

The former Little Mix singer is one of the most costume-committed celebs – rivalled only by Heidi Klum on Halloween.

But even Heidi would have been green with envy when she saw what Jade wore on a night out in London on Friday.

The singer, who turns 33 on Boxing Day, went all out and dressed up as the female Grinch character.

She even persuaded her boyfriend, Rizzle Kicks rapper Jordan Stephens, to go with the green theme.

Their bed sheets must have been a nightmare to clean  . . . 

Taylor hands mega bonuses to crew

HER record-breaking Eras Tour propelled Taylor Swift to billionaire status.

And after making fans’ dreams come true with her dazzling show, the US superstar did the same for her tour crew.

The Shake It Off hitmaker is believed to have handed out $197million – around £148million – in bonuses to every person who helped with her shows.

Taylor thanked each crew member with a handwritten letter, sealed with a wax stamp, and a bonus – with each of her truck drivers understood to have received cheques for $100,000 (£75,000).

One insider, who worked in catering, said they were able to pay off their student loan and still have thousands of dollars left over.

And in her new Disney+ documentary, The End Of An Era, Taylor is seen handing out the huge cheques to her dancers.

She said: “It took me a couple of weeks – but it is fun to write the notes.

“It is fun to think about everyone’s lives that they are going to go back to and the time off they are going to have. And the kids they haven’t seen because they have been away for months and making that worthwhile for them.

“It feels like Christmas morning when you finally get to say thank you.”

Speaking to her dancers, Taylor said: “The tour has done really well thanks to all of our hard work so if you would kindly read this message . . . ”

Handing the letter to dancer Kam Saunders, he read: “Dearest Kam, we have travelled the world like we set out to do.

“We have dazzled the crowds but we have missed family too.

“My full gratitude doesn’t come from the bank – but here’s (bleeped out) just to say thanks. Love, Taylor.”

The dancers were seen hugging and crying after receiving the life-changing bonuses.

One dancer even clutched an inhaler after opening her letter.

I imagine I would have hyperventilated as well.

Oasis bank fortune for reunion tour

THE drinks are on the Gallagher brothers this Christmas after the Oasis Live ’25 comeback tour raked in an incredible £303million.

New stats by US music mag Pollstar have revealed Britpop pioneers Noel and Liam made $405,428,435, sold 2,228,471 tickets to their long-awaited reunion gigs, with a nightly revenue of $11,261,901 – £8,430,546.47.

Their 41-date trek spanned five continents and 13 countries between July and November.

And the siblings played to an average of 61,902 people per night.

Meanwhile, the average fan is believed to have spent £136 on a ticket.

I revealed last week that Noel, who has an estimated net worth of £53million, was whisking his family off to the Maldives for a festive getaway after five months on the road.

Oasis ranked No2 in the biggest-grossing tours of 2025 – with US superstar Beyonce holding the top spot .

The Texas Hold ’Em hitmaker saw her Cowboy Carter Tour gross $407,600,113, (around £305million), with an average ticket price of £191.

Coldplay were third, followed by Kendrick Lamar/SZA.

But Shakira, The Weeknd and Lady Gaga all had to settle for spots further down the Top Ten.

Some might say Noel and Liam nailed it . . . 

Rushing back into Big Time

THEY rose to fame as teenagers on a US TV series about a boy band – and 16 years later Big Time Rush have revealed they have a whole new generation of fans, thanks to Netflix.

The streaming giant gave a new lease of life to the original series of the sitcom, which first aired in the States from 2009 to 2013 and featured the group playing a fictionalised version of themselves.

Biz on Sunday’s Emily chatted to band members Kendall Schmidt, James Maslow, Carlos Penavega and Logan Henderson backstage ahead of their final tour date at London’s Ovo Arena Wembley on Thursday.

Kendall said: “We got lucky during Covid because Netflix picked up the show. Everybody was at home just binge watching stuff, so this whole new generation of kids started watching it.”

Carlos added: “It’s weird seeing my kids come to the show because they didn’t even exist back then.”

Asked how touring compares now they are in their 30s, Kendall replied: “We all definitely went out a lot more in our 20s – but now I truly enjoy getting up early and getting to see different aspects of the city.”

Logan added: “When we were younger, things were moving so fast we didn’t really get a chance to breathe and really soak it in.”

From what I saw on Thursday night, the boys are still on their A-game.

• Check out Big Time Rush on our TikTok channel where the boys reveal their Sunday Setlist. Scan left.

This week who would I…

Snog

Marry

Avoid

IF you’ve ever fancied the high-life of a celebrity, you can do exactly that at this hotel, and even book it with TUI.

For a classy stay, The Santa Catalina, a Royal Hideaway Hotel is just a few streets away from the Marina Las Palmas in Gran Canaria.

Tucked away behind the Atis Tirma, the hotel is a 19th century building and inside there are high ceilings and huge chandeliers.

With its grandeur, there’s not much surprise that it’s been a hideaway retreat for celebrities and even royals.

Over the years, the hotel has welcomed guests like Brad Pitt, Sir Winston Churchill and the Spanish royal family.

Most recently, The Holiday star Jude Law was staying there while he had been filming in Gran Canaria.

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

While it’s a simple stay, you still have all the essentials like swimming pools.

In fact, the hotel has two pools, one outdoor tucked away in a pretty garden – and it has a sun terrace with sunbeds and parasols.

When you get thirsty or a little peckish, pop over to the outdoor bar.

Inside the spa is a heated pool, whirlpool, sauna and plenty of treatments to enjoy like sea salt and vanilla oil peels, facials and massages.

Those who booked a junior suite at the hotel can enjoy use of the infinity pool.

The hotel’s main buffet is in the Doramas restaurant, but it’s by no means basic as you can enjoy a ‘Royal Breakfast’ and watch live show-cooking.

Poemas Restaurant is the à la carte eatery serving up gourmet meals, MuXgo is a green Michelin star restaurant where guests can dine on classic Canarian dishes.

For smaller bites, there’s the Camarote snack bar as well as the Carabela bar and Alis rooftop bar – an exclusive bar with cocktail service and an infinity pool.

If you fancy a bit of entertainment while you’re there then there will be a live piano playing from Monday to Saturday and a singer on Sundays.

When it comes to activities, next door is a tennis court which guests are welcome to use at an extra cost.

Rooms range from Deluxe Double Rooms which have a neo-classical design up to the suite, which has a separate bedroom and living space as well as a bathroom with a tub and rain shower.

Packages can be on a Bed and Breakfast or Half Board basis.

You can book a stay with TUI and lowest price for a family of four during 2026 is in April where a seven night stay will cost £958pp – including flights from London Luton with easyJet.

One writer explore the quieter side of Gran Canaria…

Writer Alex Cohen explored Gran Canaria, and here’s what they discovered…

“Ain’t life Gran-d! Well it is when you’re far from the madding crowd, soaking up the silence in the middle of an island more famed for popular beach resorts.

“The south of the volcanic island has mile after mile of beaches full of hotels and holiday apartments. But we’ve come off the beaten track to explore the hidden delights.

“There are more than 300 days of sunshine a year here and you really could do something different on each of those days.

“There are almost as many different landscapes too, thanks to the microclimates of every soaring volcano, ravine and valley brought in by the trade winds.

“As we climbed up from the coast, the many faces of the second biggest of the Canary Islands showed themselves. Swirls of mist-cloaked mountains gave way to desert-like fields and green forests.

“Around one hairpin bend, it looked like the Grand Canyon, with the light disappearing down sheer cliff faces into deep rocky ravines.

“Round the next and suddenly we were in a Breaking Bad-style desert with cactus and not much else growing. Down into the next valley and we could have been in the Caribbean with palm trees guarding the lush vegetation.

“Once you get into the interior of the island there’s an array of things to do; hiking on mountain trails, village markets with local crafts, UNESCO heritage sites, laurel forests or even walking through a National Park.

“Go rock climbing around the Pico de los Pozos de la Nieve, the island’s highest point at nearly 2,000m. Or perhaps cycling — on or off-road — or visit the island’s botanical gardens, ancient cobbled villages, vineyards or the old town in the soulful and lively capital Las Palmas de Gran Canaria.”

For more celebrity holiday hotspots, check out the waterpark hotel where Stacey Solomon went on holiday with Blue Flag beach and unique ice fountain.

Plus the UK hotel which attracts famous celebrity guests & makes holidaymakers ‘feel like they’re abroad’.

Taylor Swift, The End of An Era – Disney+

★★★★★

“I WANTED to exceed fans’ expectations with this tour,” Taylor Swift says during the opening episode of her The End of An Era six-part documentary series.

It’s not even up for debate that she did just that with the global trek, but I’m happy to report she also achieves this with her new Disney+ series.

Disclaimer, I am a huge Swiftie, but before the first two episodes dropped I did have my concerns.

I feared the documentary would just be the same old footage of Taylor picking her outfits that we’ve now all seen a thousand times and fluffy backstories about her life on the road.

Of course, these types of moments are in there, but episode one alone pulls back the curtain on the most talked about tour of all time in ways other behind the scenes specials simply don’t.

The 43-minute long episode focuses on the heinous Southport attack, as well as the foiled terror plot at Taylor’s Vienna gigs, and lifts the lid on what went on behind the scenes.

TAYLOR’S TEARS

Taylor Swift breaks down as she opens up on Southport attack for first time

‘WHO IS THAT?!’

50 Cent and Jason Momoa look totally unrecognizable after drastic makeovers

For the first time we see how much the trauma rocked Taylor, with her breaking down in tears on multiple occasions.

Rather than feeling staged or performative, it shows the true artist behind the phenomenon and proves she is just as human as the rest of us.

During a chat with pal Ed Sheeran she admits she feels almost dehumanised by fame.

In another scene she’s filmed trying to calm herself down with an audio book of 2024 thriller The God of The Woods.

In the weeks that followed the incidents in Southport and Vienna, Taylor found herself wrecked with anxiety to the point she was physically shaking.

Not that Taylor is moaning about her life – in fact at one point she openly accepts her reality isn’t normal.

Though as she sings on The Life of A Showgirl track Elizabeth Taylor, “Oftentimes it doesn’t feel so glamorous to be me”.

People were quick to join an online pile-on against Taylor over summer ’24 after she kept silent following the incident in Southport.

But those behind the wrath of masked crusaders may be feeling more than a little silly after the doc.

Episode 1 reveals rather than turning a blind eye behind and pulling up her drawbridge, away from the spotlight Taylor was determined to make a difference.

Before each of the five remaining Wembley shows Taylor met with the families of those affected by the horrific incident.

And while I’ve obviously not spoken to any of those families in question, I would be willing to bet my flat that her decision to personally meet them has made a positive difference, far beyond that she gives herself credit for.

And it would be worth far more than a short Instagram story statement ever could.

In private Taylor was clearly struggling with the run of incidents, but on stage she never faltered.

While never brushing them under the carpet ignoring them, she was determined not to let events overshadow or dampen the magic she had created for the 10 million ticket holders on the 149 date trek.

I was lucky enough to attend three of the gigs in the capital – two of which took place after Vienna and Southport.

Both with those shows – and indeed with the new docuseries – the magic and escapism of Taylor’s world is very much alive and well.

A feat I doubt, even in decades to come, will ever change.

SHE’s the ultimate Queen of Christmas, best known for her soulful pop tunes, but I can reveal Mariah Carey’s next record will surprise fans.

After years of speculation, I’m told the Hero singer will release her long lost GRUNGE album next year.

While the exact date is still being worked out by the label, I hear it will drop in the second half of 2026.

The record, which is called Someone’s Ugly Daughter, was secretly recorded by Mariah back in the Nineties.

A source said: “Ever since she let slip about the existence of the record, fans have been desperate for it to be officially released and put on streaming.

“After years of casual talks about what to do, everyone has now agreed the album will be released in the second half of 2026.

IN HER PRIME

Jesy Nelson puts new music on hold as she films ‘incredible’ new Prime series

IT’S BLINK FLOYD

People blink in time to music without realising they are doing it

“It’s been a long time coming, but hopefully fans think it’s worth the wait.

“It’s certainly Mariah as you’ve never heard her before.”

The first anyone knew of the record was when Mariah let slip about it in 2020 memoir, The Meaning Of Mariah Carey.

She said: “I think this unearthed version will become, yes, something we should hear. I’m working on a version of something where there’ll be another artist working on this with me as well.”

‘So carefree’

Mariah says the reason she made the album was to push back at being over-controlled by her record label, adding: “I had no freedom during that time. That was my freedom, making that record.”

In the book, she said: “I was playing with the style of the breezy-grunge, punk-light white female singers who were popular at the time. You know, the ones who seemed to be so carefree with their feelings and their image.

“I honestly wanted to put the record out back then under, you know, the same pseudonym, just put it out and be like, you know whatever, let them discover that it’s me.

“But that idea was kind of stomped and squashed.”

I wait with bated breath . . . 

Hardworking Rita worth even m-Ora

EVEN if you’re not a fan of her music, it’s impossible to deny that Rita Ora is a hustler.

The I Will Never Let You Down singer is busy landing jobs doing everything from acting and presenting to modelling and working as a charity ambassador.

Which is why it comes as no surprise to us that the latest accounts for Ora Live and Ora Multi Services reveal she’s topped up her fortune with £4.8 million in profits.

It’s a sure sign Rita is going nowhere anytime soon as the figure is more than double the £2.3 million she made the year before.

Her companies manage her various income streams and reflect her broad career beyond singing.

Multi-talented Rita has also served as a judge on The X Factor and The Masked Singer and even had a film role in the Fifty Shades movie series.

Rita’s takings – which work out at £13,000 per day over the year to April – has helped to increase her net worth to £31 million.

It’s not a bad life, eh?

Kath: LA life not for me

CANADIAN comedian Katherine Ryan has ruled out moving to Hollywood after admitting she hates everything about Tinsel Town.

Letting rip, she said: “I would love some opportunities to do some comedy acting but I will never move to Hollywood because people seem quite sick there . . . in the head.

“I like England. I like people who aren’t positive all the time.

“I like the British way of telling the truth. I like a bit of taking the mick out of one another without getting offended.”

Not stopping there, Kath added: “Hollywood to me seems too sanitised. I would not be welcome.

“I’ve already not been welcome. I had a glass of vino in the morning when my daughter was swimming, they were like, ‘Maam, orange juice?’.

“I was like, ‘No, alcohol’. They nearly called the police.”

Taylor in her stride

TAYLOR SWIFT has hit back at critics who say she should take time out from the industry to give other artists space to shine.

The superstar seemingly breaks every possible record with each new track, causing some music fans to get Taylor-fatigue.

Appearing on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, Taylor said: “There are corners that are like, ‘Give someone else a turn! Can’t you just go away so we can talk about how good you were?’.

“And like . . . ‘I don’t want to’.”

This morning, the first two episodes dropped of The End Of An Era – a six- part Disney+ docuseries that goes behind the scenes of her record-breaking Eras Tour.

You can bet come next week the show will have broken a few more records.

Tate: Why I can be a pop girl

TATE McRAE has opened up about her on-stage alter-ego Tatiana.

The Canadian star explained: “I started to black out onstage and become this person that I couldn’t explain, nor could my family or my friends, and I needed a reason for it.

“And I think it helps me grasp the strange theory of why I’m not nervous in front of 15,000 people, and why I can be nervous at a dinner party with four people.”

She added to Rolling Stone magazine: “Tate is this very introspective, very sensitive, very introverted, awkward Canadian.

“Maybe more on the shy side. I’m observant, and I feel very internal, all the time.

“And then, this persona that I’ve created is my way of being this confident pop girl.”

Sam: Stay with me, Ed

SAM SMITH made sure the final of their To Be Free: New York City residency went off with a bang.

The Stay With Me singer was joined on stage at Warsaw in Brooklyn by Ed Sheeran and Brandi Carlile.

Brandi and Sam duetted on her song Party Of One, while Sam and Ed gave a rendition of Who We Love – a track on Sam’s 2023 album Gloria.

The show was watched by American Vogue’s ice-queen former editor-in-chief Anna Wintour.

In February, Sam’s residency will move to San Francisco and will play at the historic Castro Theatre for eight nights.

While nothing has even been hinted at, I wouldn’t be surprised if a run of shows in London is announced in the New Year.

Liam’s trackie record

HIS dress sense is similar to my own, so I was shocked to see Liam Gallagher named in Vogue’s inaugural 50 best dressed list.

The Oasis rocker was mentioned in the Dedicated Dressers category alongside Iris Law, Miquita Oliver and Amal Clooney.

Meanwhile, my favourite pop star Dua Lipa was in the Music Makers category alongside a line-up of stellar talent including Skepta, Central Cee, Lily Allen and Charli XCX.

Even those with a slightly eclectic taste were catered for, with The Traitors host Claudia Winkleman, and actors Cynthia Erivo, Richard E Grant and Emma Corrin all getting a nod.

I never knew my Adidas tracksuit and tatty old Parka were so cool.

Xmas hit battle

THE official race for Christmas No1 kicks off today – with a new single from Kylie Minogue and WHAM!’s Last Christmas tipped as the front-runners.

Kylie’s song Xmas, which is on track to become her highest entry in the UK charts since 2010’s All The Lovers, leads the pack, while Denise Welch’s Slayyy Bells and Tom Fletcher’s One Of Us, from Paddington The Musical, are also in the running.

Classics including Shakin’ Stevens’ Merry Christmas Everyone, The Pogues’ Fairytale Of New York, and Kelly Clarkson’s Underneath The Tree are also expected to climb the chart.

There are a load of non-festive tunes vying for a shot too, with Raye’s Where Is My Husband, Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande’s For Good and Labrinth’s Where Love Lives.

Once again Mariah Carey’s All I Want For Christmas Is You is tipped to finish in the top five.

The winner of the Christmas No1 will be revealed live on Radio 1 next Friday.

THERE’S a theme park in Europe named the word’s best – but it isn’t Disneyland Paris.

The huge Europa-Park in Germany was named Best Theme Park in the World at the Golden Ticket Awards.

It is the 10th time it has won the award – and with 100 attractions, I wasn’t surprised.

I visited the mega theme park last year, and was left seriously impressed by the scale of it.

Stretching across 230 acres, across the park are 15 country-themed lands placed on different destination around the world.

The area of Greece feels like you are in Mykonos, while the Switzerland area is like being in the heart of the Alps.

COUNT UP

Dracula-themed ‘Disneyland’ to open with 40 attractions, waterpark & spa

RIDE ON

The world’s first ‘luxury’ theme park is opening in a winter sun destination

There is a St Marks Square in Italy, as well as a pizzieria, while there are lands based on Norway, the Netherlands and Spain as well.

There is an England themed land too, which yes, has a British pub.

The extravagance of the park reminds me of a family-friendly Las Vegas, without the casinos and neon lights or course.

Among the 100 attractions are 13 rollercoasters, my favourite being new Voltron Nevera in the Croatia section.

Created by Mack Rides – behing Thorpe Park’s Hyperia – it has a record-breaking 105-degree beyond-vertical launch, the steepest in the world.

It is easily one of the most innovative roller­coasters I’ve experienced, not to mention the most terrifying.

The park also has Rulantica, a huge waterpark with 50 slides and attractions.

Heated to 32C, it even opened a new outdoor pool this year, which has a massive swim up bar with 150 seats.

And if that wasn’t enough, there are a whopping 50 restaurants and bars at Europa-Park – my favourite being the mad Eatrenalin.

Sat at a “floating chair” I was transported to different rooms for different dishes while surrounded by immersive displays.

It combines gourmet cuisine with modern technology – and I was sold.

Europa-Park is constantly expanding too – back in June, the new Wild West themed land Silver Lake City opened.

Along with four themed diners, there is even a 630-bed Tipi Town accommodation village.

Next year will see the opening of the Riverside Western Lodge, with another 120 rooms.

It might not have the recognition of Disneyland, but with so much for all ages, Europa Park should top any theme park-lover’s list.

It’s not just me who was impressed, with one money-saving mum saying it was perfect even in half term holidays.

Content creator TheTravelMum said: “The theming is incredible, and the queue times are absolutely amazing.

“A lot of the smaller rides only have one minute queues.

“The park is fantastic for thrillseekers but at the same time it caters to the little ones,

“This place is fantastic value.”

Entry to the park costs £52 for adults and £44 for children (4–11) and seniors.

Despite being in Germany, the park is near the border of France and Switzerland, so the nearest airport for Brits is Basel.

Return fares in November start from £39pp.

AT the age of 66 – with 200million record sales behind him and millions in the bank – Simon Cowell could be forgiven for taking his foot off the pedal.

But six years after collecting his bus pass – and he loves buses – the music mogul is back, and on a mission.

His new Netflix show, aptly titled The Next Act, will see him scouring the country in the hope of discovering the planet’s biggest boyband.

Over the years, Simon has sat through hundreds of interviews, painstakingly answering the same, insipid questions.

But having been pals with him for 20 years, I wanted to do something a little bit different.

So we celebrated my 35th (plus a few years) birthday together at a McDonald’s after Si discovered I’d never visited a drive-thru before. His driver, Tony, took us in Simon’s decked-out Lexus, which comes complete with mini-bar and plasma-screen TV.

IT’S OVER

Love Islanders in shock SPLIT after huge holiday row

SHAKE UP

TWO more Towie stars QUIT the show just hours after co-star announces exit

While there, I grilled Simon – who has son Eric, 11, with partner Lauren Silverman – in a hilarious game of “Ask Me Anything”.

In a chat that won’t be winning me a Pulitzer any time soon, Simon cheerily answered a raft of, erm, probing questions.

From bathing FOUR times a day and having all his filler dissolved, to how he has lost three stone thanks to a 600-calorie-a-day regime, no question was off limits.

Here, in his own words, is Simon as you’ve never seen him before.

SIMON’S DIET & LIFESTYLE

FIVE years ago, Mr Cowell cut a very different figure.

By his own admission, he was “puffy” and unhappy with his appearance.

To overcome it, he dramatically upped his workout regime — he trains or cycles daily now — and slashed his calories to less than 1,000 a day (bar today’s “cheat day”).

CM: Do you have a gastric band?

SC: No! I did have a LINX band put in though which stops the acid going up into my chest.

And I cut out sugar, dairy, red meat, gluten . . . I had the diet of a school boy, and was told by a dietician it was the worst diet he’d ever seen.

I have four 90-calorie beers a day, but pour half the beer out and make it a shandy.

I basically eat the same things every day. Breakfast is a green, protein smoothie with fruits, a lot of blackcurrants, porridge and tea, and lunch is half a hot cross bun.

I eat dinner at about 4.30pm and because I wake up at 9.30, 10am, I can go 17 hours without eating: Intermittent fasting.

CM: Have you ever tried the fat jab?

SC: No, I’ve never been tempted, sorry.

CM: How many push-ups can you do?

SC: About 40 in one go. I have these two little bar things and every day I do somewhere between 300 and 600. If I’m really going for it, a thousand.

CM: Will you show us?

SC: No, Clemmie, I am not doing press-ups in McDonalds’.

CM: How much sleep do you get a night?

SC: Ten hours. I have these amazing blue light glasses for it and they’re incredible.

CM: Do you wear pyjamas?

SC: Yes.

CM: How many units of Botox have you had?

SM: Oh God, thousands.

CM: Have you had a facelift?

SC: No! Everyone always thinks I have but I haven’t. I used to have filler but then one day I saw a picture of myself and thought, “Oh God, I look like a real weirdo”.

So I had everything dissolved.

CM: How old would you like to be when you finally, you know, cark it?

SC: I said earlier this year that I age backwards. So instead of being 66, I consider myself to be 64. Next year I will be 62.

I think I can live to 100. If I can remove all my stress, carry on with the diet and, you know, we’re discovering new stuff all the time.

CM: Do you biohack?

SC: Well I’ve started on peptides now — I’m on NAD+ [an amino acid said to promote cell turnover and longevity] and am feeling really good for it. I also take Boots Dual Defence [nasal spray] daily and can’t remember the last time I had a cold.”

SIMON’S BITS & BOBS

CM: Have you had your dogs cloned?

SC: I love dogs, sometimes more so than humans. If you love them, they are so loyal and love you unconditionally back.

I have four now: Pebbles the Alsatian, Squiddly, Diddly and Daisy, who is a rescue from Barbados, so she really hates the winter months. They’re like my babies.

So, cloning isn’t as easy as I thought. They don’t just turn up as sweet little puppies in a box. There are ethical concerns so you have to get a donor dog and it’s essential you keep and look after that donor dog, which I absolutely would do.

Otherwise, it’s not right and people who are cruel to animals are the most disgusting people in the world. They are sickos. They deserve custodial sentences — it just upsets me so much.

CM: What’s the funniest thing you have ever read about yourself?

SC: Probably something you wrote about me.

CM: Do you read below-the-line comments?

SC: Absolutely not. I’ve a theory that the really bad comments, whoever posts them, if they’re guys, they have blue duvets with a lot of stains on them. Always dark blue. Living with their mum and dad with filthy duvets. So I refuse to read them.

CM: Ever been to Primark?

SC: Yes, yes. Eric got some PJs, which I promise you are the softest pyjamas I’ve ever touched in my life. And they’re really cute. They’re from Primark!

CM: Have you shopped at TX Maxx?

SC: What’s TK Maxx?

CM: Ever flown Wizz Air?

SC: No, but I flew easyJet to Spain once.

CM: Do you fly cattle?

SC: Um, well, I fly commercial. But in a flat-down bed. I don’t fly private jet.

CM: Do you pray?

SC: I pray every night, yeah. I believe that we have a guardian angel. I believe in God and in the powers of the universe. It’s all combined. And I’m definitely going to heaven. I hope so.

There’ll be my old dogs, all my old friends, my mum and dad.

CM: How many mirrors do you have in your house?

SC: Lots. But actually, I don’t really think I’m that vain.

CM: What’s the most embarrassing thing you’ve done?

SC: Like what?

CM: I don’t know, have you ever wet yourself?

SC: No Clemmie, I haven’t wet myself.

CM: What’s your biggest bugbear?

SC: People with bad breath.

CM: Have you found the new One Direction in your Netflix show?

SC: Well, I don’t know. All I know is that if people like them as much as I like them — and I really, really do have a bond with these boys — then I will be so happy.

They’re real, they’re not privileged, they have no leg-up, apart from this.

One of them is still working in a fast-food restaurant. They’re just lovely, funny boys.

SIMON’S QUIRKS

CM: Do you wear fresh pants every day?

SM: Yeah, of course. I’ve got them all lined up in a drawer, in their little white boxes. I think I have OCD.

CM: Do you wear lifts in your shoes?

SC: No! But yes, I do wear a Cuban heel which gives me an extra inch.

CM: Do you Google “Simon Cowell”?

SC: No because I read things like I wear boosters in my shoes. I probably last Googled myself seven or eight years ago.

CM: When did you last get the Underground?

SM: “Erm, probably not this century. But I do love a double-decker bus, the top deck.

CM: What jeans do you wear?

SM: I wear Giorgio Armani ones, and I’ve only got one pair. People don’t really think I have legs because they always see me sitting down.

CM: How many T-shirts do you own? And do you get a discount code on them?

SC: I have 200 identical charcoal grey Derek Rose T-shirts. I do get a pretty good deal on them actually, yes. I don’t have to think about anything then.

CM: What’s your most annoying habit?

SC: Apparently I snore. But actually, I chew gum really loudly and it drives everyone mad. It’s a chewing gum called CB12. It really irritates everyone.

CM: What irritates you the most?

SC: I have a thing about smells, and hygiene. You smell good by the way. So do you two in the front [points to Sophie, The Sun’s producer, and Tony, his long-term driver].

I want to make a new show actually called The Most Disgusting Show In The World to show people what we actually eat and breathe, and how disgusting we really are. Like, all the bed bugs in our beds, that freaks me out. Everything does.

I’m allergic to them so I have to get my mattress and carpets steamed all the time to get rid of the dust mites or whatever.

SIMON’S CHEAT McDONALD’S ORDER

A DOUBLE Filet-O-Fish and small fries – eaten only after sanitising his hands (and mine).

He says: “Excitingly, we’re going into unknown territories now with the double fish burger. This is quite new, so I am very eager to try it.”

He then proceeds to remove the bun, and cheese, and pick at two slivers of lightly-battered fish patties. And has three fries.

•  Simon Cowell: The Next Act is available to stream now on Netflix.

YOU don’t have to compromise on the quality of hotels when visiting London.

Stay at the Leonardo Royal Hotel Tower Bridge for a luxurious city stay with delicious breakfast buffet, huge rooms with comfy beds and panoramic views of London from floor to ceiling windows.

Where is Leonardo Royal Hotel London Tower Bridge?

As the name suggests, this hotel is in Tower Bridge, and is just minutes away from London’s most iconic attractions like the Tower of London. 

While it’s the perfect spot to explore some of the most iconic landmarks in the country, you won’t hear any of the noise you’d expect from being in the heart of the city.

The hotel is tucked away behind the busy streets, and I can confirm you’ll get a great night’s sleep.

It’s within walking distance to Tower Bridge (of course), The Shard, Leadenhall Market and the Sky Garden. The nearest tube station is Tower Hill, or Aldgate, and the hotel is a 10 minute walk from Fenchurch Street Station.

YULE DO

Travel expert reveals cheap UK holiday parks with Xmas breaks from £9pp a night

CHRIMBO WIN

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

What is the hotel like?

The Leonardo Royal Hotel London Tower Bridge is contemporary and luxurious, but cosy too.

Inside the revolving doors, you’ll enter the lobby which is decorated with a huge seasonal display and the diffusers around the hotel make it smell incredible.

There’s an area for guests to relax with velvet sofas and brown leather armchairs. For those who are working, you’ll find desk areas with USB chargers.

What is there to do there?

Aside from the obvious tourist spots to visit, you can actually spend time having a great time in the hotel itself.

Underneath the hotel is a huge 25metre heated swimming pool with an infinity-edge spa pool, sauna and steam room.

For guests who want to make their experience extra special, check out the four pamper packages on offer, and spa treatment menu.

What is there to eat and drink there?

Of course you can head out into London during the evening for a bite to eat, but you can always stay in at Leo’s Restaurant.

I tried the delicious lemon and thyme herb chicken with roasted tomatoes, mushrooms and crispy chips.

The pot roast pork belly with Sauerkraut, mash and crackling which comes in a little hot pot, was also a favourite.

Make sure to check out the dessert menu for sticky toffee date pudding or white chocolate cheesecake.

There’s also a lengthy list of cocktails and a wine list, I enjoyed a refreshing glass of the Pink Flamingo grenache rosé.

In the morning, head back into Leo’s to eat from the huge breakfast buffet. It has everything to set you up for the day from continental options like yoghurt and fruit as well as cured meats and cheese.

For something more filling, there’s a selection of hot food like sausages, eggs, baked beans, bacon, tomatoes, mushrooms and a separate omelette station. You can fill up on as much tea and coffee as you’d like too.

What are the rooms like?

There are 370 spacious rooms ranging from a Superior Room with a double bed to the very impressive suites.

Each room comes with Wi-Fi, air conditioning, a hair dryer, television, tea & coffee station, as well a work space, and an ensuite 

Executive rooms and suites have extra perks, including a mini fridge with water and snacks, fluffy towel robes and slippers.

Executive guests also get 20 per cent off spa treatments, and access to the lounge which serves breakfast, dinner, as well as nibbles, soft drinks and coffee and tea throughout the day.

I was lucky enough to stay in a suite on the top floor, which has floor to ceiling windows and an incredible cityscape view across Tower Bridge to the Shard.

You can also see the beautiful skyline on your way up to the room in the glass lift.

Is Leonardo Hotel Brighton family-friendly?

Families can book into the larger Superior Room with two queen beds (sleeping up to four guests), cots can be added to rooms upon request. For connecting or adjoining rooms contact the hotel directly to request them.

Children are welcome in the pool from 9-11AM and 4-7.30PM – outside of these hours it’s 16+ only.

Is there access for guests with disabilities?

Yes, guests with accessibility needs will find rooms designed for wheelchair access, built to the highest specifications. 

The hotel has lifts to all floors and features like accessible bathrooms and toilets.

The Room rate for a superior rooms starts from £170 – see https://www.leonardohotels.co.uk/ for more.

For even more Leonardo hotels, check out this one in Brighton that’s the perfect base to explore the seaside city.

Plus, one Sun Writer checked into London’s cheapest hotel room and slept like a baby.

A MAJOR bridge used by around 20,000 drivers every day is set to be demolished on Christmas Day.

The Winterstoke Road Bridge in Weston-super-Mare, Somerset, was built during the Second World War to serve aircraft factories and now sits in the heart of the town’s suburbs.

The 80-year-old structure crosses the busy Exeter to Bristol railway line and has reached the end of its life.

It is already closed for 18 months while a replacement is constructed.

North Somerset Council has confirmed the demolition will take place on December 25 – the only day of the year when no trains run in the UK, allowing work to be carried out without disrupting rail services.

Council leader Mike Bell said: “Winterstoke Road Bridge has been a mainstay throughout the lives of Weston residents, first in its integral role in our aviation history, then later serving homes and businesses across the area.

BRIDGE UPROAR

Vital bridge used by 100s in our town is set to be DEMOLISHED – we’re furious

OUT OF ACTION

Major motorway used by 50K drivers every day to close as bridge demolished

“In recent years the bridge has enabled around 20,000 journeys each day, testament to the part it plays in our local transport network.

“It is a crucial route, which is why it’s important that the ageing bridge is replaced with one built to last for the next 120 years.

Replacing Winterstoke Road Bridge represents a major long-term investment in local infrastructure, helping to protect and increase road capacity while strengthening the network for future growth.

The new bridge will also encourage walking and cycling and remove existing weight limits for heavier vehicles like buses.

The bridge’s wartime origins date back to 1940 when the RAF requisitioned Weston Airfield as the Battle of Britain raged overhead.

After Winston Churchill created the Ministry of Aircraft Production, Oldmixon became one of three local sites chosen to expand aircraft manufacturing.

In 1941, the first Bristol Beaufighter rolled out of the factory and the Winterstoke Road Bridge was built so workers could reach the site more quickly.

After the war, the bridge opened to the public as the area switched from building fighter planes to producing prefabricated aluminium homes to help tackle the housing shortage.

Aviation remained a major part of the local economy for many years, including aircraft maintenance and Westland Helicopters.

North Somerset Heritage Champion John Crockford-Hawley said:
“The original Winterstoke Road Bridge is a monument to the long-standing pride that our area has in local aviation history, as well as our collective appreciation for the role that the RAF has played.

“Though we must now say goodbye to the historic structure and make way for a new bridge, the wartime stories of Winterstoke Road, the factories and the iconic Bristol Beaufighter will live on in the pages of our rich local history.”

The bridge closed to traffic in November and is not expected to reopen until 2027.

A temporary footbridge has been installed for pedestrians and cyclists, but drivers must follow a diversion via Flowerdown Bridge.

North Somerset Council has warned that the Airport and Runway roundabouts will be “extra busy” during the works.

The new 60-metre bridge will weigh more than 2,000 tonnes and will be supported by 24 deep steel-cased concrete piles drilled 35 metres into stable mudstone to stop it sinking into Somerset’s soft ground.

Due to tight space on site, contractors can only complete one pile every other day.

Utility cables and gas and water mains beneath the bridge will be diverted first. The replacement structure will then be built off site in sections and lifted into place by crane.

WHEN it comes to January you can either embrace the chill, or escape it.

Sun Travel has got seven destinations all over the globe from African Islands to UK staycations and a beautiful city under four hours away with return flights from just £35.

Cape Verde

Deputy Travel Editor Kara Godfrey can’t abide cold weather during January so has a suggestion for anyone wanting winter warmth.

She said: “If you want guaranteed sun without having to spend too much post-Christmas money, then Cape Verde is a great option.

“Expect much warmer temperatures – think 26C in January – without having to hop on a long flight. Taking just six hours, there’s just one hour’s time difference, so no jet lag either.

“Both TUI and easyJet offer flights there, with Boa Vista and Sal the two most popular islands. TUI’s package holidays start from £515pp, or easyJet’ flights are around £92 each way.

SNOW MUCH FUN

I did an extreme day trip to Lapland with my kids and still met Santa

SNOW WAY

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

“There’s activities from boat trips to dune bashing, but I wouldn’t blame you if you ended up on the sun lounger more often than not for some winter warmth.”

Cruises

Head of Sun Travel Lisa Minot recommends hopping on a cruise next month. She said: “Getting your Vitamin D fix couldn’t be easier when you choose a holiday at sea.

“Ocean cruising in the warm waters of the Caribbean, the Canary Islands or even the Gulf is the perfect January pick-me-up and you can sit back and relax on deck soaking up the sunshine while a new port of call will deliver the chance to explore ashore.

“For Brits, Marella Cruises offers great all-inclusive packages including flights, all your food and alcoholic drinks plus tips.

“Fly to the Dominican Republic on January 6 and you could be setting sail onboard the Marella Discovery from £1,181pp for seven nights’ all-inclusive cruising to St Lucia, Dominica, Antigua, St Kitts and the British Virgin Islands. Flights depart Gatwick. See tui.co.uk/cruise.

“Or how about adding some Mexican flavour to your Caribbean escape? Iglu has a cruise-only deal for seven nights’ full-board on MSC Seashore from just £401pp, you’ll just need to book flights to Orlando to join the cruise. See iglucruise.com.”

Wales

Meanwhile Assistant Travel Editor Sophie Swietochowski suggests sticking to the UK.

She said: “Generally speaking, I’ll pick a sunny holiday over a wintry escape every time. Except at this time of year, that is. January, for me, is about embracing winter – and I’m not quite ready to chuck on a bikini after all those mince pies.

“Instead, I’ll stay in cosy mode, with a cottage staycation where I can spend the week holed up in a typically British pub with a roaring fireplace and generously sized glass of red wine to warm me through.

“I visited North Wales in January last year and it was the perfect spot to reset myself after the festive period.

“Our Sykes Cottages property, Cefn Nannau cottage was set on a working farm and the area had just been caught in a flurry of snow.

“Mornings consisted of frosty dog walks around Lake Tegid, the largest natural lake in the country, followed by a soak in the outdoor hot tub with a cup of tea, watching the sheep huddle in the snow in the field opposite.

“A three nights’ self-catering break at Cefn Nannau cottage costs from £114pp, based on 12 sharing.”

Tenerife

Travel Writer Helen Wright has one island she goes back to year on year.

She said: “In my opinion, you can’t beat the Canary Islands in January. We go every year, usually to Tenerife, but if we get a good deal, we’ll sometimes choose Gran Canaria instead.

“It’s the perfect way to wind down after the Christmas chaos as the Canary Islands are always so chilled out.

“The weather is perfect for us as a family. It’s not as hot as some winter sun destinations, but very pleasantly warm. We’ll be wearing shorts and t-shirts during the day and then a hoodie or jacket with jeans in the evening.

“We spend our days on the beach or by the pool at our hotel – when booking, always remember to check the pool is heated and preferably not by solar panels because if it’s cloudy, the water can be cold.

“Often, we’ll book all-inclusive or half-board with Jet2, which means food and drink are hassle-free. Even when we eat out, the Canary Islands are never too expensive.

“It’s the perfect little January getaway and if you look around for some great last-minute deals, it can be super affordable too.”

Marrakesh

Travel Reporter Alice Penwill is also seeking out heat in January and there’s somewhere you can be in under four hours.

She said: “I really don’t mind the cold up until Christmas. But post December 31 and I’m ready for spring.

“Sadly living in the UK means it won’t be warm for months so if I can, I’ll head off somewhere not too far for some sun – like Marrakesh.

“In January the weather can be as high as 19C, if you’re lucky. But it’s still pleasant enough to stroll about without packing on the layers and thermals.

“There’s lots of exploring you can do too in the mild weather – which I find more pleasant than their scorching summers. Some of my favourite spots are the Dar El Bacha – a huge palace with beautiful mosaics, and of course the medina full of spices, leathers and great souvenirs.

“You can get return flights to Marrakesh from £35 with easyJet flying out on January 27 and returning on January 31, 2026.”

Seville

One places close to home that Kara loves is over in Spain, she said: “The city of Seville is perfect to visit for your first 2026 trip. Just two hours by flight, it’s one of Spain‘s hottest cities.

“Not only that, but it’s not one you want to visit in summer, with huge crowds and temperatures hitting an unbearable 40C.

“It’s an easy place for a weekend break, with fantastic food, live flamenco and beautiful architecture. I recommend staying at Only YOU – a boutique hotel that opened last year and is as little as £96 a night.

“And top tip – try and nab the free tickets for the Royal Alcázar of Seville palace, which are found in the last hour of opening.”

Paris

Travel Reporter Alice Penwill believes sometimes you have to compromise on heat for a shorter travel time – and head to somewhere like lovely Paris.

She said: “While you might not get the heat of places further afield, sometimes you can’t beat a short trip to somewhere like Paris where you can do so much in just a few days.

“When I went across on the Eurostar it was for an extreme daytrip and took just a few hours – but of course you can stay longer if you like.

“See incredible sites like Notre Dame, the Musée d’Orsay and you can even go on a food tour which will take you through beautiful neighbourhoods.

“When it’s not raining, walking along the River Seine during the winter with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate is delightful.

“If you fancy a short trip, you can get a return journey on the Eurostar from £83 departing on January 27 and returning a day later.”

For more Sun Travel suggestions, check out our favourite day trips in the South East – from pubs with a view to quiet beaches.

Plus, these are the holiday destinations we predict will be HUGE in 2026 – thanks to cheap hotels, flights and pints.

WHEN it comes to Christmas dinners, Brits take it very seriously, from getting the right amount of crunch on roast potatoes to whether Yorkshire puddings belong on the plate.

So when I found out that the luxury department store Harrods and the bargain pub chain Wetherspoons both offer festive dinners for the same price, I had to go out and see exactly which was better.

Each dinner costs £15, and I took everything into account from initial impressions to taste and texture to value for money.

I thought I’d start on a high, by heading to Harrods in the heart of London for the first of the two options in my Christmas dinner taste test.

I’d been teased by social media posts about just how good their Christmas Dinner Box is, seeing influencers tucking into thick slices of turkey crown with lashings of gravy and hot cauliflower cheese.

It’s Christmas time so naturally the shop was heaving with both tourists and the rich regular shoppers, so I make a swift beeline to the Food Hall.

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

Thankfully there’s an easy way to find the roast dinner – follow your nose and look for the spinning chickens on the Rotisserie Counter.

You’ll then see a suited and booted staff member whose job it is to gate-keep the long queue, which took 20 minutes to complete on my visit.

My meal was a tad sloppily-placed into a cardboard lunchbox. But you can’t deny that for just £15, it’s huge.

It comes with two thick turkey slices, three cuttings of ham, eight roast potatoes, one stuffing ball wrapped in bacon and sage, a long pig in a blanket, cauliflower cheese, cranberry sauce and a splash of meat gravy.

With a smile, I was handed over my weighty dinner, but it came with a new challenge; where to eat it.

Unlike Wetherspoons, Harrods offers no seating, so having to find somewhere to eat it before it got cold was slightly frustrating.

Faced with eating my lunch standing on a busy London street, I had to high-tail it back on the tub to my the office to dig in.

I started with the star of the show -the turkey. And I was very impressed with out moist it was , after all, we’ve all tucked into a home-cooked Christmas dinner that’s much too dry.

The marmalade-glazed ham was lovely too, although it was quite fatty along the side. But once that was cut away, the meat itself was soft, nicely flavoured and not too salty.

Of course no Christmas dinner is complete without roast potatoes and these had a great herby flavour.

They weren’t as crisp as I’d like, probably because they’d been sitting underneath the meat while I travelled o the tub, but you couldn’t argue with the fluffiness inside.

The stuffing ball was generously sized and, in my opinion, fancy. It came wrapped in bacon and a whole sage leaf; nothing like I’ve made from the Paxo box at home.

The cauliflower cheese is a great addition as everything sits on the creamy surface, not to mention it was delicious.

There wasn’t a lot of gravy, but I’m sure that if I’d asked for another ladle full they wouldn’t have said no.

And love it or hate it, I had cranberry sauce on my dinner. Not a lot, but enough for that sweet flavour and, as you might have guessed as it’s Harrods, was full of actual whole cranberries. 

However, how does it compare to its Wetherspoons rival, charging the same amount?

My next stop was to The Pommelers Rest Wetherspoons on Tower Bridge Road in London.

The standard price for ‘sliced turkey breast and winter vegetables’ Christmas dinner is £14.99 – however in London you pay an extra £1, so costs £15.99, including a soft drink.

It’s detailed as having four turkey slices, along with pork, sage and onion stuffing, roasted Chantenay carrots and parsnips, Maris Piper mash, two pigs-in-blankets, peas, cranberry sauce and gravy, as well as a soft drink.

It doesn’t sound too bad, right?

I will say, the huge portion on the classic Wetherspoons blue and white patterned plate was much bigger than the Harrods version, so it’s great if you have a hearty appetite.

But that’s where the positives ended. It had thin slices of turkey, of which I only counted three rather than the promised four.

Not only did the potato mash have a crusty skin on the top, but its a sacrilege to have mash rather than roasties.

There were two tiny pigs in blankets, two small carrots, some cubed parsnips (which together I doubt made one whole one) and a flurry of green peas.

Even the gravy was a let down, tasting like it was made from granules.

The cranberry sauce came in a pot on the side which I appreciated – but when it came to taste it was very artificial and packed with sugar.

Maybe it wouldn’t have felt too dissappointing if I hadn’t already tried the Harrods alternative.

But it didn’t feel like the usual great value for money that you get from Wetherspoons meal deals.

The only way Wetherspoons could trump Harrods is the fact that it has seating, and was a much bigger serving.

But I’d rather be standing on a busy London road, eating my lunch from a takeaway box than tucking into the festive dinner at a table in a warm pub.

For more on taste tests, Sun Travel checked out the UK’s best ice cream shop which serves Aperol, Pimms & cornflake scoops.

And Sun Travel also tasted the new viral Dubai chocolate ice cream served at a top London attraction – it was a huge disappointment.

THE last time Britain had a white Christmas was 15 years ago – and its unlikely to be one this year either.

But there is one way of guaranteeing one in the UK thanks to a holiday lodge that has a sneaky way to make sure you have snow.

You can get festive quite easily with cosy log fires, a cup of mulled wine, and a classic Christmas dinner.

But there’s one thing that would make it that extra special – a blanket of snow outside.

And Holiday Lodges have announced a stay that will actually guarantee snow – thanks to hidden snow machines throughout.

Tucked away in the heart of Wales is its White Christmas Lodge where in December guests will wake up to snow outside.

Read more on Winter Holidays

CHRIMBO WIN

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

SNOW WAY

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

The description reads: “From the moment you arrive, you’ll step into a winter wonderland. Fully decked out in Christmassy decor and covered in snow”.

The lodge sleeps up to eight people and has its own hot tub, games room, cosy living and dining room along with icy lake views and you can stay there from £350 per night.

For further festivities, you can add a “decorate-your-own tree” experience or a festive wreath-making class.

In the evening, the kitchen is full-kitted out so you can relax with a cup of hot chocolate, mulled wine or spiced cider.

Not to mention it’s the perfect place to watch movies like Home Alone, Elf and for classic fans, White Christmas.

There might even be a special visit from Santa himself.

The following morning you’ll actually get to see snow falling outside (thanks to the hidden snow machines too).

The lodge has captured attention on social media too. TikTok‘s @_miawootoon said “I feel like it would be the most incredible experience in the world to have a white Christmas – why hasn’t it been done before?”.

@alexandratealeaf added “it looks like it’s straight out of a Christmas movie”.

More details are yet to be announced and the lodge isn’t available for booking quite yet.

But if you’re interested in a stay at the White Christmas Lodge next tear then head here to register your interest at holidaylodges.co.uk.   

For more on Christmas, check out the popular UK attraction with the tallest Christmas tree in the WORLD – and they need a crane to decorate it.

And here are 15 unusual places to see Santa this Christmas from underground mines to water attractions.

IF you loved dancing to tunes like Mamma Mia, Waterloo and Super Trouper at ABBA Voyage then you might be excited by this other potential avatar concert.

Another city has announced that it could see potential in starting its own experience based on four very famous Liverpudlian musicians.

ABBA Voyage started back in 2022 and at the time was met by some scepticism.

That was until visitors entered the purpose built arena and were so blown away that what started as a limited residency initially set for a few months, is still going strong today.

Now, Steve Rotheram the Liverpool City Region (LCR) mayor has revealed he believes a similar show in Liverpool could benefit it greatly – especially if The Beatles were at the forefront.

The band that rose to fame in the 60s could appear as avatars in a show funded by Liverpool’s visitor levy.

GET STEAMY

Brilliant budget spa days from just £9.50 – including top A-list celeb haunt

JOLLY DAY

Our expert picks for unmissable UK staycation trips to banish post-summer blues

The charge was initially introduced in 2025 as a £2 per night “City Visitor Charge” for overnight stays in certain hotels and serviced apartments.

Steve Rotheram said he had been “looking at ways” since then in which “we might be able to deliver something similar but not identical to the Abba Voyage experience in London“.

“Just imagine if we could do something that features perhaps a local four-piece beat combo that did okay from these parts?”

Mr Rotheram continued: “We could have an immersive experience so people would flock in to see them. It means the footfall would increase exponentially, it means that this would be an international destination of choice.

“You’d go here and then perhaps go to London, whereas currently a lot of people go to London and sometimes jump on a train to come here, so we want to change that dynamic and I think this will be one of the ways in which we do it.”

Having the show based on The Beatles would be a popular choice for Liverpool with each of the band members born and raised there.

Mr Rotheram hinted that the potential show could be funded by the current levy – and its replacement coming in 2027.

The new charge will come into play in two years time once the current scheme expires.

This will mean that all properties in the Liverpool city Region – including Airbnb – will be affected.

It could bring in lots of money for the city too – it was reported that ABBA Voyage generated over £100million in ticket sales in 2023 alone.

As a result, it contributed £1.4billion to the UK economy‘s turnover by late 2024.

And the Beatles are set for another revival ahead of the new films based on each of the band members.

Directed by Sam Mendes, it will see four films released based on the four members.

Paul Mescal will start as Paul McCartney, Barry Keoghan as Ringo Starr, Harris Dickinson as John Lennon and Joseph Quinn as George Harrison.

For more experiences in the UK, here’s how you can try out your very own Race Across the World.

And here’s more on the world-first gameshow attraction opening in the UK – with spin the wheel, music rounds and free prizes.

One writer tried the world-famous ABBA Voyage experience in the UK – here are her top tips & the best nearby bar…

Writer Hope Brotherton headed to ABBA Voyage earlier this year, here’s everything she loved about it – and the bar she found for pre-drinks…

She said: “I’m surrounded by sequinned jumpsuits, bright-pink feather boas and white go-go boots.

“It means I can be in just one place – the dance floor of Abba Voyage, the astonishing concert in London performed by CGI versions of the four bandmates in their Seventies glory days.

“The tech is so impressive, that it’s hard to believe the Swedish superstars aren’t really performing live on stage. I found my grasp on reality slipping even further when a real-life backing band appeared.

“I was mesmerised by every visual in the purpose-built venue, with a kaleidoscope of brightly coloured lights descending from the ceiling as Dancing Queen played.

“You can, of course, book seats but my friend Ellie and I preferred the standing tickets, where we had more than enough space to dance our hearts out to Mamma Mia and Waterloo.

“Getting in the right mood for a boogie was essential, and we had pre-show food and drinks at Stratford restaurant and bar The Print House – Jim & Tonic East to thank for our exuberance.

“It was then time for food and, to start, we shared the marinated prawns and a garlicky flatbread – both delicious.

“Aware of all the dancing ahead – it’s a marathon, not a sprint – I plumped for a parmigiana pizza, which totally hit the spot.

“Keen to sample a tipple from the on-site distillery, then I washed my main course down with a gin flight. Ambitious, I know – it came with three gins, my favourite being the Mediterranean.“

MEASURING more than 19,000 miles, Britain’s beautiful coastline has a host of attractions and reasons to visit.

Nigel Thompson unveils our pick of what’s happening around our shoreline next year, with options for every traveller’s budget.

Scarborough leads the way for 2026 as the “Queen of the Yorkshire Coast”, celebrating its 400th anniversary as a spa resort.

ANNIVERSARIES

SCARBOROUGH’S journey to becoming the nation’s first seaside spa resort began in 1626, with the accidental discovery of mineral waters.

Mrs Thomasin Farrer noticed natural springs bubbling beneath a cliff.

These were subsequently said to cure minor ailments.

FROZEN OUT

Shocking cost of Lapland UK revealed – and it’s cheaper to visit Santa in Arctic

PARK UP

Center Parcs confirms opening date for newest UK holiday resort

Celebrations throughout next year to mark the centenary include heritage and art installations and a 10-day festival in mid-July.

Across the Pennines, Morecambe is marking what would have been comic legend Eric Morecambe’s 100th birthday (May 14).

The town he was born in, and named himself after, will offer a series of events and activities that are sure to bring some sunshine!

Italianate village Portmeirion in North Wales will celebrate the centenary of its completion with events, exhibitions and tours.

It’s also 60 years since cult TV series The Prisoner — which starred Patrick McGoohan as a former secret agent dubbed Number Six — was filmed at Portmeirion.

There will be a convention weekend on April 24-26, featuring parades, human chess and immersive experiences.

Fans will surely want to stay in hotel room number six!

The Jurassic Coast will be even more roar-some as it celebrates the 25th anniversary of its Unesco listing.

Highlights along the 95-mile geological route in Dorset and East Devon include dinosaur fossil hunting in Lyme Regis, picture perfect Durdle Door and the 180billion pebbles that make up Chesil Beach.

WALKING

NEXT year will see the completion of the King Charles III England Coast Path. At 2,795 miles it will be the world’s longest continuous coastal trail.

The newest 42-mile section now links the Scottish border to Lincolnshire and a summer celebratory event will be announced.

Other coastal walking celebrations include Dorset’s WALX Festival (September 17-20) with Jurassic Coast hikes and workshops and the Isle of Wight’s Spring and Autumn Walking Festivals (May 9-17 and October 3-11), focussing on its landscape, wildlife and heritage.

ACCOMMODATION

BLACKPOOL’S Royal Carlton Hotel is getting a multi-million-pound makeover.

The 38-room art deco property, between Central and South Pier, will reopen in the spring and feature a new pergola with extensive greenery.

The luxury Kithmore Hotel in “home of golf” St Andrews, Fife, will debut in the summer with a major transformation.

The former Ardgowan Hotel will have 44 rooms, a bar/restaurant and an expanded terrace.

A mixed-use cultural, creative attraction with a 31-room hotel is under construction at Old College on the promenade at Aberystwyth, Ceredigion.

The restoration project is due to finish by the end of 2026.

FOOD

FOOD lovers have a busy calendar starting with value-focused Whitby Restaurant Week (March 2-8), Yorkshire produce at Filey Food Festival (April 4-5) and street eats at Southsea Food Festival (July 4-5).

Isle of Wight Garlic Festival runs from August 15-16 and Essex foodies will flock to the Maldon Food & Drink Festival (August 29-30).

CULTURE

HULL Maritime Museum will reopen in the summer after a £27.5million restoration.

New exhibits covering 800 years of history will range from ship models and seafaring art to a 40ft whale skeleton.

Redcar, on the North Yorkshire coast, will welcome a £25million multi-purpose cultural and family entertainment venue near the Esplanade.

The Edge in Cumbria, on Whitehaven harbour, is a unique new building. It has a cafe and bar area and there are 16 en-suite bedrooms.

A £12million development will transform Isle of Barra Distillery in the Outer Hebrides with a visitor centre and café.

Due to open in October, you can try out seaweed botanicals and honey vodka.

FESTIVALS

THE south coast of England has a variety of events for next year, including kites massing for Let’s Go Fly in Dorchester on June 6, Portsmouth’s Country on the Coast Festival on April 17-19 and hydrofoil competitors speeding across the water at the World E-Foiling “iQFOiL” Championships in Weymouth and Portland from September 21-26.

NATURE

WORLD Saltmarsh Day will be held at WWT Steart Marshes in Somerset on June 11, aimed at connecting people with coastal nature via new audio trails, community art and viewing platforms.

In Hampshire, the Southsea Coastal Scheme will double the size of the shingle beach between the Pyramids and Eastney for 2026, to enhance the visitor experience and bolster climate resilience, helping to reduce local flooding.

More info at englandscoast.com/en, visitscotland.com, visitwales.com

THE star of a hit superhero movie has barely aged since became a global superstar more than 40 years ago.

Ornella Muti played Princess Aura in Flash Gordon in 1980 and looked incredible at a recent book signing event.

The actress made her English-speaking film debut in the sci-fi movie and was voted “The Most Beautiful Woman in the World” in 1994 by a worldwide poll of readers of Class magazine.

Flash Gordon, which celebrated its 45th anniversary this month, follows the adventures of American football quarterback Flash as he ventures into space to unite the planet Mongo and save Earth from destruction.

Ornella, who was born in Italy with Russian ancestry, has recently been on a book tour on the Italian island of Calabria.

She released her autobiography, This Is Not Ornella Muti, in September and shared a series of photos from her tour in Calabria.

HARD TO HANDLE?

Tom Hardy in feud with unexpected A-list co-star after ‘winding them up’

health battle

Danniella Westbrook ‘rushed to hospital with breathing issues’

Ornella looked striking a red maxi dress and dark-framed glasses as she greeted fans in the Italian bookstore.

The beauty worked as a model before making her film debut as a 14-year-old in 1970.

She would go on to have an illustrious film career in Italy before making her Hollywood debut in the 1980s.

After starring in Flash Gordon, Ornella worked with many well-known movie directors, including Woody Allen, John Landis and Eugene Levy.

In 2008, Ornella launched her own jewellery line and opened a number of retail stores in Italy.

She had a brush with the Italian law in 2015 when she was sentenced to 10 months in jail for cancelling a theatre performance.

Ornella had cited a health reason for cancelling the show in 2010, but then attended a dinner with Russian President Vladimir Putin in St Petersburg.

The actress is mum to three children, including her model daughter, Naike Rivelli.

Naike and her mum became the topic of a heated debate when it was revealed, Ornella and Naike’s step-father had snapped nude pics of the model for Instagram.

In 2016 Naike, who is well-known in Italy for uploading racy snaps, posted a photo of her standing on one leg covering her breasts and groin with her hands.

Underneath the picture, she wrote: “Who in the world took this picture of me? The man I don’t have? The woman I don’t have? The friends who aren’t here right now? Who?”

Then, she revealed another snap showing her stepfather, Fabrice Kerherve, taking the shot – as her mother lies under a dressing table taking even more pictures.

Next to this photo, Naike added: “In the end, it’s so much simpler than it seems.

“A simple crazy morning with my mum Ornella Muti and my stepdad Fabrice Kerherve family moments.”

But far from ‘liking’ the social media posts, many online commenters felt there was something distasteful about the model being photographed by her stepdad.

VISITING Lapland UK can be more expensive than flying to the Arctic Circle.

Tickets to the festive experience this Saturday are selling for as much as £180 each.

There are no discounts for children, a £24.75 booking fee and £5.95 postage and packaging.

It means a family of five would have to spend more than £930 for their day out.

But a few days in the real Lapland, in northern Finland, can cost in the region of £600.

Lapland UK has a site in Siddington, Cheshire, and another in Ascot, Berks.

LAP IT UP

Sky-high price of a soft toy at Lapland UK is revealed – as mum details TRUE cost

LAP IT UP

Mum slams ‘insane’ Lapland UK prices as she’s quoted £600 for family-of-four

One dad, who asked not to be identified, said: “When I saw the price I spat my mulled wine out.

“It’s obscene pricing, meaning only rich kids get to have the thrill.”

Danielle Halliday said: “We went to Finland last year with two adults, two children.

“Flights were £250, accommodation was £350 for the four nights and going to see Santa is free, or €10 each for a present.

“You might as well go for the real thing for a cheaper price.”

Lapland UK was asked to comment.

HAVE you ever fancied pulling a pint at the Queen Vic or stepping inside the Star Wars universe?

Well, at a brand-new immersive museum that’s set to open next year, you’ll be able to do exactly that.

Set to open next year in Borehamwood down the road from Elstree Studios is a museum, but not in the traditional sense.

It won’t be a stuffy room full of relics, but rather it is set to be an immersive experience which will allow visitors to feel like they’re on the sets of their favourite films and TV shows.

It was approved by the council in November 2025 and will honour 100 years of film and television production in Hertsmere.

The new experience is set to open in December 2026 on a vacant former Sky Studios space in Panattoni Park.

POD LIFE

I spent the night in London’s cheapest hotel room and slept like a baby

SUMMER IS GO

The 40 kid-friendly & free activities for EVERY day of the school holidays

Just down the road, Elstree Studios has been used to film shows like Indiana Jones, Star Wars, Harry Potter and of course, BBC soap opera, EastEnders.

These shows are likely to make an appearance at the museum – but nothing has been confirmed so far.

Other TV or film shows that could potentially appear in the museum are Alfred Hitchcock’s Blackmail, The Shining and BBC’s Holby City which was axed in 2022.

The opening aligns with the 100 year celebration of the UK’s first sound film, Alfred Hitchcock’s Blackmail, which was filmed at the studios in 1929.

The local council stated: “This isn’t just about looking back, it’s about creating an experience that can bring any story to life.

“From walking through the sets of EastEnders to standing in the middle of a historic scene like the Great Fire of London, or even taking part in the launch of a major new movie filmed right here in Borehamwood, the Immersive Experience will combine cutting-edge technology with creative storytelling.”

In December 2025, Hertsmere Council approved a £2million contribution towards the project.

Visitors can easily reach the studios from Elstree & Borehamwood Station, which is a 25-minute train ride from London St Pancras.

Currently, visitors aren’t able to take general public tours of Elstree Studios because they are working production sites.

However, the public are permitted to visit if they’re seeing shows like Strictly Come Dancing which requires a live audience.

Currently, the only other permanent tour experience is the Warner Bros. Studio Tour – The Making of Harry Potter, which is just a 20-minute drive from Elstree Studios.

Sun Travel recently visited Hogwarts and discovered everything you need to know about the experience.

We rated everything from its general experience, which is a self-guided tour, to discovering Diagon Alley and the creepy Forbidden Forest.

Other aspects we rated were whether it’s child-friendly, how much tickets are, food and drink options, and exactly how long you need to explore it.

Plus, here’s everything we know so far about the new Universal theme park set to be built in Bedfordshire.

And Head of Sun Travel (Digital), Caroline McGuire, visited the UK’s best theme park – with no queues for any rides.