Longtail

NOW Christmas is over, thoughts switch to that other wallet-buster of an annual event – the summer holiday.

If you want to get your trip booked in but the bank account is looking pretty empty, there are plenty of travel companies that will let you book for next to nothing if you get booking NOW.

We’ve rounded up some of the businesses that offer Brits the chance to reserve their summer break from just a quid.

Sunshine.co.uk offers package holidays with deposits from £30 pp – and better yet, you can book hotel stays abroad with just a £1 deposit.

The final balance is due just four weeks before you travel, giving you plenty of time to get prepared with payments. And if you need to cancel your hotel booking, you’ll only lose the £1 deposit up to 2 weeks before you depart.

On the other hand, holiday companies TUI, First Choice and Expedia offer options for you to secure your holiday with a £0 deposit.

With TUI you can book a package holiday with a £0 deposit for both short haul and long haul trips. This includes your flights, transfers, accommodation and baggage allowance – all secured without spending a penny upfront.

If you book your holiday at least 6 months in advance and pay via their direct debit scheme, you’re eligible to book with £0 deposit.

First Choice have a similar scheme, offering £0 deposits for holidays booked at least 6 months in advance, as long as the flights are with TUI Airways. Or if you use their PayPal Credit payment option, the flights can be with any airline.

Lastly, Expedia‘s book now pay later option lets you book a hotel stay with no upfront costs – as you pay upon arrival at the hotel itself. Just filter your hotel search by “Reserve now, pay later” and make sure you tick the “Pay at property” option when booking.

These low and no deposit options are a stress-free way to get next year’s holidays sorted, without that initial dent in your wallet.

Whether it’s an action-packed family holiday or a romantic week away, here’s some of our top holiday picks that you can book with £1 or no deposit – so you can get something in the calendar to look forward to.

Stamos Hotel – Faliraki, Rhodes

This hotel in Faliraki on the island of Rhodes is just 10 minutes from the buzzy town centre – and 10 minutes from the beach.

It’s a typical Greek hotel with its whitewashed buildings, lush greenery and parasol-dotted poolside.

Faliraki in Rhodes is home to some beautiful coast including ‘Main beach’, which is a long sandy stretch with shallow waters that are perfect for families, as well as the quieter Kathara beach and Anthony Quinn Bay.

But the town really comes alive at night-time, as the resort is known for its nightlife scene, as its famous “Bar Street” is lined with bars and clubs pumping out pop music all night long.

Luckily, this hotel is located on the outskirts of the town – so once you’re done partying for the night you can be sure to get a good night’s sleep in peace and quiet.

Sunshine.co.uk offer 7 nights’ all-inclusive stay from £376.68 pp. Flights not included.

TUI SUNEO El Trébol – Costa Teguise, Lanzarote

Costa Teguise on the east coast of Lanzarote is an exciting resort that’s super popular with families.

It has an aquarium, Aquapark and water sports hub all in one action-packed place.

This hotel is part of TUI’S SUNEO collection of 3 and 4-star hotels that are handpicked for their affordable pricing, quality entertainment – and are often all-inclusive.

It’s also a 9-minute walk to Playa de los Charcos, a small, golden crescent of beach that’s much quieter than the nearby Playa de las Cucharas.

TUI offer 7 nights’ all inclusive stay in from £553 pp, based on 2 adults sharing. Price includes return flights from Birmingham.

Hard Rock Hotel, Marbella, Spain

If you’re looking for a party holiday, it doesn’t get much better than the Hard Rock Hotel in sunny Marbella.

The Hard Rock Hotel experience is one-of-a-kind, with live concerts, evening performances and rentable guitars and record players for your hotel room.

Food here is equally as exciting, as this hotel’s restaurants swap typical buffets for Asian fusions and Mexican flavours.

Nearby, there’s beach clubs and boat parties galore – plus your pick of multiple golf courses.

And for a day out sightseeing, wander the old city walls of Marbella castle and stroll down the Avenida del Mar to see sculptures by Salvador Dalí.

Expedia offers 7 nights’ room-only stay for £688 total, based on 2 adults sharing. Flights not included.

Hotel Rio Park – Benidorm

This hotel in buzzy Benidorm is popular for its modern interiors and glamorous entertainment programme.

There’s quizzes and aqua gym classes to keep you occupied during the day, and in the evenings you’ll catch performances from top-quality singers and dancers performing hit musical numbers.

Plus it’s a great choice for families with picky eaters.

The buffest restaurant serves up everything from roast dinners, to chicken curry, to apple crumble.

Meanwhile, the hotel sports bar shows the footie matches and pours British pints.

Hotel Rio Park is situated on a quiet road by Levante beach, a great spot to enjoy the best of Benidorm, without compromising on comfort.

TUI offers 7 nights’ half board stay from £304 pp, based on a family of 2 adults and 2 children. Price includes return flights from East Midlands Airport.

Grand Ideal Premium Hotel – Marmaris, Turkey

A 5-star all inclusive in Turkey for only £1 deposit and just over £500 pp? Yes please.

The Grand Ideal Premium Hotel sits in Marmaris, a resort in the Turkish Riviera known for its clear-water beaches backed by thick green forests and mountains.

This luxurious hotel has 272 spacious rooms including family suites, many overlooking the massive outdoor pool that snakes around the resort.

Spend your days on 4×4 mountainside safari tours, visiting Marmaris’ central market, or zipping down tube slides at Atlantis waterpark.

Sunshine.co.uk offers 7 nights’ all inclusive stay from £507 pp, based on a family of 2 adults and 2 children. Flights not included.

Corendon Playa Kemer, Antalya, Turkey

If you’re looking for a holiday with a mix of lazy beach days and outdoor adventure, this resort in Turkey’s Beldibi makes for the ideal destination.

This is the kind of place where you can stroll along soft sands, dip into ancient history, hike canyons – and still be back in time for cocktails by the pool.

The resort itself earns its popular rating with its 7 bars, 4 restaurants and 3 pools – plus its own theatre and nightclub.

Behind the beachfront resort is the Mountain of Ali, where you can hike endless pine trails to your heart’s content.

It’s also a 25-minute drive to the ancient ruins of Phaselis, a seaport with Greek and Roman history where you can still see the ancient Roman baths.

First Choice offer 7 nights’ all-inclusive stay at the Corendon Playa Kemer for £770 pp, based on a family of 2 adults and 2 children. Price includes return flights from London Luton.

Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort, Orlando

If you’re dreaming of that once-in-a-lifetime Disney trip, TUI’s no-deposit and flexible payment plans make planning that big trip a whole lot easier.

The All-Star Movies accommodation in Florida‘s Walt Disney World Resort is a budget-friendly option with all the Disney magic.

As its name suggests, this place is a movie lover’s dream. Think huge Disney film themed zones, decorated with giant characters from Toy Story, 101 Dalmatians and more.

The resort also has a couple of good-sized pools, including the whimsical Fantasia Pool and the quieter Duck Pond Pool.

There’s a kids’ splash zone, a playground, a jogging trail, and even a video games arcade – plenty to keep families entertained when you’re not exploring the parks.

Rooms are simple and comfortable, with two queen beds or a king and a fold-out.

TUI offer 7 nights’ room-only stay for £975 pp, based on a family of 2 adults and 2 children sharing. Price includes flights from London Gatwick.

Coral Beach Hotel and Resort – Paphos, Cyprus

The Coral Beach Hotel in Cyprus’ Coral Bay has everything you could want from an all-inclusive resort and more.

There’s 7 restaurants and 3 bars to choose from here, including an Italian eatery and seafood tavern.

The property also has a private beach and its own harbour offering boat trips.

Plus, four tennis courts, a squash court, games room, kids activity programme and arts and crafts centre.

For day trips out, there’s the UNESCO-listed Akamas Peninsula on your doorstep to explore.

Sunshine.co.uk offers 7 nights’ all inclusive stay for £304 pp, based on a family of 2 adults and 2 children. Flights not included.

Ocean Dream Cancun by GuruHotel – Cancun, Mexico

This beachfront boho hotel is just steps away from soft white sands and crystal blue water in its location on the Punta Cancun – a popular resort area known for its bars and clubs.

The area has some of Mexico’s most pristine beaches, that look like they’ve walked out of the pages of a luxury magazine.

Activities include whale-watching, snorkelling and day trips to visit one of the seven wonders of the world – Chichen Itza.

Inside the hotel itself, there’s 68 air-conditioned for a pretty affordable price.

Expedia offers 7 nights’ room-only stay for £734 total, based on 2 adults. Flights not included.

Coral Sea Water World, Hurghada, Egypt

Coral Sea Water World sits on the luxurious Nabq Bay of Egypt‘s Sharm El Sheikh.

This all-inclusive resort is built for families, with an extensive entertainment programme and an on-site waterpark with 18 slides to try out.

Dining-wise you can expect a buffet that’s anything but repetitive, as the theme and food line-up change daily.

If you can bring yourself to leave the all-inclusive waterpark-come-resort, Sharm El Sheikh is an exciting resort area to explore.

There’s the King Tut Museum (which has free entry for kids up to age 11), plus the Red Sea is known for its clear waters full of colourful marine life, best seen via snorkel.

First Choice offer 7 nights’ all-inclusive stay at Coral Sea Water World from £328 pp, based on a family of 2 adults and 2 children. Price includes flights from Birmingham airport.

Arabian Park by Rotana Hotel, Dubai

This modern hotel in Dubai’s Al Jaddaf is a great base for exploring the city, just a short distance from Downtown Dubai and the Festival City.

Arabian Park Dubai has an outdoor pool decorated with loungers and palm trees, plus a gym and all-day dining restaurant serving international dishes.

The rooms are bright, modern and air-conditioned, with comfy beds and large windows that look out over the city skyline or pool area.

It’s a great spot to stay for sightseeing around Dubai, as the hotel offers a free shuttle service to La Mer Beach, Dubai Mall and Dubai International Airport.

Expedia offers 7 nights’ stay with breakfast for £632 total, based on one room for 2 adults. Flights not included.

Hilton Alexandria Corniche, Egypt

The Alexandria Corniche is one of Egypt’s most vibrant waterfronts – a curving promenade lined with cafés, shisha spots and seafood restaurants.

Here you’re also within easy reach of the city’s top sights, from the spectacular Library of Alexandria (20 minutes’ drive) to the centuries-old Citadel of Qaitbay (35 minutes).

Sat on this popular seafront is the Hilton Alexandria Corniche, a sleek hotel with a rooftop pool and six restaurants to keep you well fed between sightseeing.

The hotel even has its own private beach and wellness centre, where you can have a massage or relax in the hot tub after using the hotel gym.

Expedia offers 7 nights’ stay with breakfast for £631 total, based on one room for 2 adults. Flights not included.

Blue Lagoon Resort, Kos, Greece

This resort on the Greek island of Kos is ideal for families who are into waterparks.

There’s five pools here, including a kids activity pool and adults-only option – plus a waterpark with a lazy river.

The main attraction though is the lagoon-style outdoor pool, which is popular with kids and adults alike with its whirlpool baths and jets.

Once you’ve explored all the pools have to offer, there’s football, padel courts, basketball and two playgrounds for the kids to burn off the rest of their energy.

It’s also based right on the beachfront and under 10-minutes’ drive to Kos Old Town – where you can admire the historic Roman Odeon and Nerantzia Castle.

First Choice offer 7 nights’ all-inclusive stay at the Blue Lagoon Resort for £691 pp, based on a family of 2 adults and 2 children. Price includes return flights from London Stansted.

Bahi Ajman Palace Hotel, Ajman, UAE

For a slice of all-inclusive affordable luxury, it’s worth checking out the Bahi Ajman Palace Hotel.

The 5-star property is all glamorous marble and arches, with its own private beach.

The area of Ajman offers a more calm and gentle pace than nearby Dubai, with long sandy beaches, calm waters and laid-back vibe.

Head into the streets of Ajman to discover its charming Old Town with traditional markets, or relax on its sweeping sandy beaches.

And if you fancy a day trip to the nearby glitzy city, Dubai is a 30-minute drive away.

Expedia offers 4 nights’ all-inclusive stay at the Bahi Ajman Palace Hotel for £646 total, based on 2 adults sharing. Flights not included.

Grand Cobra, Mexico

Mexico‘s Riviera Maya blends tropical forests with beaches where warm waves gently lap over sugar-white sand – plus some really fantastic activity-packed resorts.

Set amid lush jungle and just a short shuttle ride from the beach, Bahia Principe Grand Coba is a major family holiday base.

Think vast leafy grounds, big lake-style pools, plus a waterpark and lazy river set-up that keeps kids (and grown-ups) happily entertained.

If you fancy a change of scenery, you’re within reach of some pretty coastal areas like Akumal and trendy Tulum.

There’s also a golf course nearby for those who want to trade sunbathing for practising their swing.

First Choice offer 7 nights’ all inclusive stay at the Bahia Principe Grand Coba from £995 pp, based on 2 adults sharing. Price includes return flights from London Gatwick.

Monica Isabel Beach Club Aparthotel, Albufeira, Algarve

The Monica Isabel Beach Club is an aparthotel with simple, clean accommodation and everything you need for a chilled-out Algarve break.

There’s two outdoor pools plus a children’s pool, and a heated indoor option.

Rooms are studios or one-bedroom apartments with kitchenettes, with plenty of space and balconies or terraces.

The club-style resort offers a mix of activities: a fitness centre, tennis, games room, and a seasonal entertainment programme.

And when you fancy venturing out, you’re in a great spot. The lively New Town of Albufeira is on your doorstep, packed with bars, restaurants, shops and nightlife.

It’s a great pick if you want a well-located base where you can explore the Algarve at your own pace.

Sunshine.co.uk offer 7 nights’ all-inclusive stay at the Monica Isabel Beach Club Aparthotel for £493 pp, based on 2 adults sharing. Flights not included.

db Seabank Resort and Spa – All Inclusive, Malta

Mellieħa Bay is home to Malta’s biggest sandy beach, so you’re in a prime spot for the best of beach days at the db Seabank Resort and Spa.

This area is quieter than the island’s busier resorts like Bugibba and Qawra, but still has plenty of cafés, restaurants and coastal paths when you fancy a wander.

The family-friendly all-inclusive has three pools, a spa, gym and its own indoor soft play area as part of the excellent onsite kids club.

Kids will also love the jungle-themed restaurant, whilst adults can enjoy a sushi buffet at L’Orjent Asian restaurant.

Nearby, Mellieħa’s scenic hilltop village and the rest of the popular northern coast are just a short bus ride or drive away.

Sunshine.co.uk offer 7 nights’ half-board stay from £188 pp, based on a family of 2 adults and 2 children. Flights not included.

Catalonia Oro Negro, Tenerife

Sunshine-soaked and just a 10-minute walk from golden sand beaches, Catalonia Oro Negro gives you access to the best of Tenerife in one neat package.

The resort offers two outdoor pools (plus a rooftop pool for adults in premium rooms), a poolside bar and a buffet restaurant with live show-cooking.

Rooms are bright and comfortable with private balconies or terraces – great for a morning coffee or a quiet evening sunset overlooking the Atlantic.

Inside the hotel there’s table-tennis, billiards, darts and a kids’ playground – plenty to keep everyone entertained when you’re not on the beach or out exploring.

Step outside the hotel door and you’re in the heart of lively Playa de las Américas, one of Tenerife’s top holiday hotspots. Think beachfront promenades, vibrant nightlife, surf-style beach clubs, shops, restaurants and bars.

For a change of pace, you can rent a car or hop on a short taxi ride to explore volcanic landscapes and the island’s natural parks.

First Choice offer 7 nights’ half-board stay from £497 pp based on a family of 2 adults and 2 children. Price includes return flights from London Luton.

Stella Palace Aqua Park Resort, Crete, Greece

If you’re after a Greek resort for a big family holiday, Stella Palace Aqua Park Resort ticks a lot of boxes.

The complex is just a stone’s throw from the sea at Analipsi, where there’s a section reserved just for hotel guests.

The resort itself has two giant pools, a waterpark and a splash park which you’re able to use at the sister hotel, Stella Village.

You can pick from 267 modern rooms, some of which have their own hot tubs and doorstep pool access.

Throw in warm summer evenings with live music, movie nights and mini discos, and you’re all set for that big family summer holiday.

Sunshine.co.uk offer 7 nights’ half-board stay from £244 pp, based on a family of 2 adults and 2 children. Flights not included.

TUI MAGIC LIFE Fuerteventura

This massive resort in Fuerteventura hosts everything from sports tournaments to bike tours – and is backed by an impressive mountain.

This resort is truly a sports lover’s paradise, offering everything from mini football, to archery and trampolining.

And after all that exercise, there’s a sauna, steam bath and hot stone massages on offer to relax and rejuvenate.

Nearby, there’s the sandy stretch of Playa de Esquinzo beach, and the quaint Morro Jable fishing village to explore.

The resort is also close to Jandia (an 11-minute drive) popular for its cocktail bars, affordable restaurants and nightlife.

TUI offer 7 nights’ all-inclusive stay from £552 pp, based on a family of 2 adults and 2 children sharing. Price includes flights from London Luton.

_{Prices correct at the time of publication.}

CORNWALL has long been a favourite among UK holiday destinations, thanks to its stunning beaches, fascinating history and natural inland beauty.

So if you’re considering cooking a trip tot he popular South West county this year, take a look at some of our favourite local stays in recent years.

How The Sun’s travel team reviews accommodation

This list includes Cornish hotels, holiday parks, cottages and campsites our team has visited and fallen in love with.

Some journalists have travelled with their families while others have journeyed solo.

When it comes to picking our favourites we account for everything from costs to location, design, hospitality and more.

We don’t just look at what’s trending but those little-known gems that will stay with you in the years to come.

WEE BARGAIN

Beachfront property in Cornwall is selling for just £20k – but there’s a catch

AWAY WE GO

Best dates to bag cheap staycations in 2024 revealed

And to keep this article fresh with the latest accommodation we will regularly update it.

Best places to stay in Cornwall

Best luxury holiday home

8 Woodlands, Newquay

A retreat so large it could fit a family of eight, the adequately named 8 Woodlands towers over a stunning and quiet estuary.

Perched on top of a cliff, this mammoth contemporary holiday home was the ideal country escape for our beauty editor Tara Ledden.

Even with seven of her nearest and dearest with her, there was never a shortage of space.

Just 30 seconds from the back door, they could dip their toes in the sandy estuary bed or pump up a paddleboard (also provided) and brave the waters.

The surrounding nature is not the only luxury this stay has to offer – the pad comes with a lush garden complete with its own hot tub and barbecue.

Embellished with coastal-inspired interiors, families will be fully equipped with a kitchen, dining area, Smart TVs, Sonos speakers and child safety gates on each of the three floors.

The holiday home is not as remote as its views suggest – visitors can reach Newquay’s high street with just a five-minute drive or walk for 20 minutes.

Best holiday park for families with dogs

Parbola Holiday Park, Hayle

There’s no more authentic family stay in Cornwall than at Parbola Holiday Park.

Hugged by 16 acres of woodland and located just a ten-minute drive from Hayle Town, this stay gives holidaymakers the best of both worlds – a peaceful rural haven and a plethora of activities.

Writing for The Sun, Kate Jackson and Irfan Cemal described Parbola Holiday Park as perfect for families.

Highlights for their children included the heated outdoor swimming pool, a box of balls and bats to borrow and the Safari Tent, a place equipped with board games and books.

Meanwhile, the adults enjoyed the small but appreciated touches such as a package of tea, milk and delicious Cornish biscuits as they arrived or the wood-fired pizza fan that visits every Monday.

And to add to the list of this holiday park‘s many charms, Parbola is also dog-friendly.

Speaking about her stay Kate said: “The Parbola holiday park in Cornwall caters for people like us.”

Parbola offers the best of both worlds. Away from the usual hotspots, five miles inland from the north coast, it provides a haven that, despite its obvious popularity, was always peaceful.”

Best hotel for food

St Tudy Inn, St Tudy

After an action-packed day on your feet, The St Tudy Inn is the perfect spot to sit back by a roaring fire and enjoy some heart-warming grub.

With the appearance of a traditional 16th-century stone cottage, many would not assume that some diners travel over 40 minutes to just eathere.

During her visit, writer for The Sun Julia Richardson relished in dishes cooked by head chef James Lean, who used to work for Gordon Ramsey.

Expect exquisite sea-themed cuisine such as hake, cuttlefish and chorizo stew or steamed mussels.

And food is not the only thing this cosy Cornish pub has to offer – just across the car park, a converted barn holds four charming rooms paired with tartan bedspreads and patterned cushions.

Best hotel in Newquay

Newquay Beach Hotel, Newquay

Named Beached Front Hotel of the Year in South-West England 2024 by Travel & Hospitality Awards, the boutique stay rests just opposite Newquay‘s main beach – Tolcarne.

It’s here that our boxing reporter Wally Downes Jr relaxed after a stop at the Newquay Zoo.

With stellar beach views and an art deco interior – this stay is a feast for the eyes, from the designer velvet scallop chairs to the geometric glass.

And if you’re looking to grab a bite to eat, you will not be left hungry.

Newquay Beach Hotels offers numerous classic dishes as well as a fully stocked cocktail bar.

A nice extra is the Abangamba playroom for the kids.

Best holiday cottage for families

Bosinver Farm Cottages, Trelowth

You might be tempted to stick to Cornwall’s coasts but its inland valleys are just as impressive as its cliffs.

Tucked away between the quaint town of St Austell and the seaside village of Mevagissey is this hidden gem.

Here you’ll find Bosinver’s Farm Cottage – a set of 20 luxury self-catering cottages full of magical Cornish spirit.

The cute accommodation Features Writer Emma Pietras stayed in was made of straw and wood bales and its beams were taken from an old hospital – all of which added to the location’s timeless feel.

Paired with a hot tub and stunning valley views this is the perfect place to kick back and relax.

A particular highlight is the £475 worth of included activities such as a pool, animal feeding, pony rides, and outdoor and indoor play.

It is no surprise that these pads won Visit England’s Best Family-Friendly Accommodation in 2017.

In her review, Pietras had this to say: “As a mum to a toddler, previous holidays have been far from stress-free, but when you’re surrounded by 35 acres of meadows, landscaped gardens and woodland, it’s hard not to feel relaxed.”

It feels as if the owners have thought of every little detail.”

Best hotel with a sea view

Polurrian on the Lizard, Mullion

The Polurrian on the Lizard was once the vacation spot of Winston Churchill.

More recently this beautiful piece of history was visited by The Sun writer Ellie Ross who dubbed it as ‘one of Cornwall’s best kept secrets’.

With its glamorous white exterior looming over the lizard peninsula, this enchanting stay boasts a secluded beach and sea views so good you might feel like you are in a movie.

The 1890s hotel also comes along with a tennis court clifftop garden, playground and even indoor and outdoor pools.

A great way to watch the sunset over the sea is at its dog-friendly restaurant which serves everything from fish and chips to wood-fired pizza.

And according to Ellie, the cocktails were a standout.

Best spa hotel

Fistral Beach Hotel and Spa, Newquay

With views that rival the Maldives or the Caribbean, Fistral Beach Hotel and Spa overlooks one of Newquay’s more private beaches.

Visitors will feel worlds away sipping speciality cocktails at the hotel’s Bay Bar – a spot particularly good for watching the sunset.

This adults-only hotel is where Sun writer Simon Copeland spent two tranquil nights.

And that was in part credit to Fistral Beach Hotel’s luxurious spa that offered rejuvenating treatments he said “wouldn’t be out of place in some Balinese temple”.

All spa day packages included a pool, steam room, hot tub, sauna and refreshments.

Equally as lavish as the spa is the hotel’s beautifully presented food that nods to Cornish cuisine with innovative twists.

Best spot for camping

Trevornick Holiday Park, Holywell

While Cornwall’s buccaneering pirates and smugglers are long gone, the spirit of adventure can still be found in camping.

At least that’s what one of our writers found out on their trip to Trevornick Holiday Park.

Located on Cornwall’s north coast, you can set up a tent not far from Holywell’s pristine sandy beach.

Or if wrestling with a tent is off-putting, Trevornick Holiday Park also offers readymade tents.

These come fully equipped with lights, and even a fridge and TV.

Expect action-packed fun, as this holiday park not only includes a pool and spa but also a golf course, soft play centre, arcade and even a surf school.

As our writer soon realised: “The only problem was there simply wasn’t time to do everything the park had to offer.

“But it’s such a treasure that, like pirate ghosts, we’re sure to return.”

Best spot for glamping

Tremeer Farm, Lanteglos-by-fowey

A more unconventional retreat but nevertheless more rewarding, Tremeer Farm is the ideal spot to return to basics.

Expect jaw-dropping nature, animals, playing games, an open fire, and a clear night sky.

And together with the elegant white 18th-century Mongolian-style yurts to sleep in, you might never want to leave.

Tremeer Farm’s owners have thought of everything – from a hot tub to a kitchen equipped with cooking basics, a hammock, BBQ, fire pit and even a cosy wood-burning stove.

As The Sun Online Travel found out there is no better way to immerse yourself in Cornwall’s beauty.

If you have a car, the stay is just a stone’s throw away from the untouched fishing village of Polperro and otherworldly Lantivet Bay

Although travelling to Cornwall during its peak season is a no-brainer, we also recommend visiting this gorgeous peninsula in the winter.

Cornwall has a reputation for being a expensive destination – here we break down how you can visit on a budget thanks to our Hols from £9.50.

FROM the Canaries to Costa Blanca, these under-the-radar Spanish destinations should be on your holiday wish list.

We’ve picked out some of the best hidden gems across Spain, with whitewashed villages, beach towns and exotic city breaks for a fraction of the usual price and no crowds.

Manilva, Costa del Sol

If you’re heading to the Costa del Sol, leave behind the tourist hotspots of Malaga, Marbella and Torremolinos. 

Instead, head to the local favourite of Manilva, around 27 miles south of Marbella. 

This resort has a traditional hilltop white village (pueblo) with stunning coastal views, plus a marina and beach town, San Luis de Sabinillas. 

The area is also full of vineyards – with producers like Nilva offering wine tastings and modern dry whites at a fraction of the price you’d pay in France or Italy.

For example, you’d pay £26.50 for a two-hour wine tour or £15 for a bottle of Dry Muscatel.

The pueblo and marina have loads of affordable tapas bars, such as Susi Gastro Tapas, where a plate of croquettes costs less than £4. 

It’s also amazingly affordable to stay in Manilva.

A seven-night getaway here in 2025 cost an average of just £371 according to TravelSupermarket.

And hotel rooms cost from as little as £30 per night in spring, according to Hotels Combined.

It’s a great time of year to travel, with average highs of 20C and actual highs of 25C in April.

S’illot, Majorca

Get away from the hordes of Brits that flock to Magaluf and Palma, and make a beeline for S’illot on the other side of the island. 

Around halfway down Majorca’s east coast, it’s quieter and calmer than the mainstream resorts, making it a hit with families and locals. 

And it’s easy to see why. The water is turquoise, shallow and calm, beaches have soft sand and you can watch fishing boats in action.

Another advantage of S’illot is its location – you can jump on a bike and cycle the island’s beautiful coastline on a path linking several beach towns. 

And at £449 per person for a week’s break according to TravelSupermarket, it’s also an affordable Spanish beach resort. 

El Palmar de Vejer, Andalucía

This little surf town on the south-west coast in the province of Cádiz, is one of Spain’s best-kept secrets. 

El Palmar de Vejer – or just El Palmar to locals – is loved by Spanish holiday-makers – but you’re unlikely to spot many Brits here because it’s less packaged for mass tourism. 

It’s not the easiest destination to reach – from Malaga, you need to catch a three-hour train to Cádiz and board a bus down the coast that takes around an hour. 

But the journey is well worth it. You’ll be greeted by a long, wide beach with soft golden sand, independent surf lodges and laid-back chiringuitos (beach bars). 

Most of these serve proper Andalusian paella and fresh seafood, which you can eat with your toes in the sand while watching the Atlantic rollers.

You can bag a great meal with drinks for under €20 if you know where to go. 

Try La Cerveceria, where a beer costs just £1.50 and a glass of white wine is less than £2.

Accommodation isn’t expensive either – instead of high-rise developments and hotel chains, you’ll find locally-run bungalows and guest houses. 

Casa Reyes El Palmar has rooms from just £43.50pp per night (£87 for a double room). 

Wake up to the sound of the sea, hit the beach, maybe book a surfing lesson and then head to a beach bar for lunch.

This place has the same relaxed, surfy vibe you get in California – no wonder locals call it “Cádizfornia”.

Elche, Costa Blanca

For an under-the-radar city break, head to Elche. 

Around half an hour inland from Alicante, this city offers all the classic Spanish features – minus the crowds. 

You may not have Costa Blanca’s famous beaches within walking distance, but you are only a short stroll to cultural highlights like pink palaces and Europe’s largest palm grove. 

Built during the 11th and 13th centuries, Palau d’Altamira is a fortress that looks pink in the sun. 

It’s now a museum packed with artefacts about the history of Elche – and has a nominal entrance fee (€3/£2.59 for anyone above the age of six; €1/86p for students; free entry for anyone on Sundays).

Just outside the main city is El Palmeral de Elche, a huge palm tree park and garden. 

Home to a whopping 200,000 palm trees, it’s also completely free to enter. 

If you do want beaches, the coastal towns of Urbanova and Arenales del Sol are a 25-minute drive away.

The city is filled with cosy tapas restaurants, like local hangout Bar Paquito, which has been serving homemade dishes like paella and fried rice since 1970, with prices from just €6.

You can also bag a bargain on hotels – The Ibis Elche has rooms from just £29.50pp per night (€59 for a double room).

Nerja, Costa del Sol

This former fishing village is around a 50-minute drive east of Malaga and is less built up than its Costa del Sol neighbours.

Pronounced “Ner-ha”, it;s a scenic resort on the Andalusian coast with a number of beaches, a 17th-century church and mountain-and-sea views.

With its soft sand, clear water and lively restaurants, the Blue Flag Burriana is arguably the best beach.

Powdery sand stretches for almost ten miles in Nerja, and you can try activities like water skiing and scuba diving. 

Nerja is also packed with history, with Andalusian white villages and ancient caves dotting the seafront.

Balcon de Europa is an expansive, cliffside promontory, home to the 17th-century Church of El Salvador.

Worked up an appetite? Chiringuito Mauri is a rustic beachside restaurant serving seafood, chicken and paella cooked on a converted fishing boat. 

It also won’t break the bank to eat here – paella costs from €6 (£5.30) and chicken dishes from €8.50 (£7.50).

Around a 25-minute walk along the seafront from the centre of town, Hotel Balcón de Europa has rooms from £57pp per night.

Almería, Andalucía

How about a holiday in Spain’s happiest city?

With a warm climate, low rainfall and excellent tapas bars, a stint in Almería will leave a smile on your face. 

Despite the recent launch of new flights from the UK, this port city on the Iberian Peninsula is still often overlooked by Brits who flock to Madrid or Barcelona instead. 

Its main attraction is the 16th-century Moorish Alcazaba (fortress) that has the best views of the city.

There is also the Barrio de la Chanca, a small quarter of the old town where colourful houses are built into the caves.

Beach lovers can head to Playa del Zapillo and Playa de Las Olas – both located just a stone’s throw away from the city’s trendy restaurants and bars.

There’s no shortage of tapas bars in Almeria, including Jovellanos 16, where small dishes like mushrooms in garlic sauce are served for free with every drink you order.

Almeria is also Europe‘s only city with a hot desert climate thanks to its proximity to the continent’s only desert.

A 30-minute drive away, the Tabernas Desert has been used as a filming location for famous Westerns, including The Good, the Bad and the Ugly.

And with rooms from as little as £35 a night at the likes of the Hostal Estacion, you can stay somewhere central without having to splash the cash.

El Rompido, Andalucía

Around half an hour west of Huelva city, El Rompido is a small seaside resort with plenty of beach bars, boat trips and good-value restaurants. 

Backed by natural marshland and with narrow streets and whitewashed houses, this fishing village has a local feel, with many Spanish families choosing to holiday here in summer.

When it comes to activities, much of it is tied to the coast – think kayaking, a segway through the marshes and walking in the dunes – and there is a golf course with sea views.

La Flecha is an eight-mile spit of land that is accessible only by boat – offering incredible beaches of powder sand and a feeling of remoteness.

El Rompido is known for its “gambitas de Huelva” (small prawns) – try them at Doña Gamba, a local seafood bar in the village square (from €8.50/£7.50).

You won’t find any expensive boutique hotels or big chains here, meaning El Rompido is still both affordable and charming.

On the edge of town, Hotel Nuevo Portil has rooms from just £28pp (doubles from £56).

Tarifa, Andalucía

Europe’s southernmost point, Tarifa is loved by locals but often overlooked by Brits.

It features pristine, white sand beaches and, thanks to its location, lots of wind, meaning kitesurfers and windsurfers flock to the area. 

It’s a great spot to watch or even try the sport for yourself, with group lessons with Captain Kite Tarifa costing around £58 (€66 for three hours). 

For something less energetic, boat trips offer dolphin and whale watching, and you have views of Morocco across the Strait of Gibraltar. 

Another option is to explore the 800-year-old Tarifa Castle, dip in the natural sea pools along the coast or simply hit the beach. 

The town’s surf scene means it has a laid-back vibe, with lively tapas bars like El Lola serving just-cooked tortillas, local sherries and wine from Cádiz to diners on its terrace.

Don’t expect to see many chain hotels in Tarifa – that’s part of its appeal.

Located just 500 yards from the beach, the whitewashed La Casa de la Favorita has rooms from £44 per night, while the three-star Beach Hotel Dos Mares has rooms from £37.50pp per night (£75 for a double).

Arrieta, Lanzarote

Most of Lanzarote’s popular beach resorts, such as Playa Blanca and Puerto del Carmen, are found on the south of the island. 

Instead, head north towards the more rugged coastline and you’ll discover the lesser-known fishing village of Arrieta. 

With volcanic mountains on one side and the sea to the other, it offers the classic features of a holiday in the Canaries – but is blissfully uncrowded. 

Join locals at La Garita beach, a sheltered cove where you can surf small waves, build sandcastles and sip €5 cocktails from a mojito truck parked by the sand.

You’re also within easy reach of Lanzarote’s wine-growing region, La Geria.

Minerally dry whites are paired perfectly with traditional Canarian potatoes (boiled and salty) and spicy red “mojo” sauce.

You can sample them on a wine tour with a company like Wine Tours Lanzarote or direct through the bodega (vineyard). 

Accommodation in Arrieta tends to be small-scale, from villas to family-run places, rather than mega resorts. 

The Eco Cabin at Finca de Arrieta costs from £40pp per night based on four sharing (€180).

Begur, Costa Brava

Around an hour north of Barcelona, and 30 miles beyond the package holiday favourite Tossa de Mar, sits the charming town of Begur.

Its golden sand, Moorish history and tapas bars keep the locals coming back year on year for stylish Spanish beach holidays. 

You can happily spend your time hopping from cove to cove, each with steep walls plunging into turquoise water.

The Cami de Romda coastal path is a great hike between coves, while kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding gets you even closer to the sea caves.

But it’s not just a beach town. You’ll also find a medieval castle, narrow old town streets and “Indiano” mansions – homes built by people who went to Latin America and returned.  

Begur is known for its fresh fish – try traditional Catalan fish stew and wines from the DO Emporda region.

One of Begur’s oldest restaurants, Restaurante Casa Juanita is known for its fresh, local rock fish – cooked before your eyes in an old wood oven.

Set in a 19th-century “Indiano” house, the three-star Cluc Hotel has rooms from £52.

JESS GLYNNE has called it quits with Jay-Z’s management company Roc Nation.

The move is to wipe the slate clean for 2026.

It follows a career blow earlier this year when she split from record label EMI following the release of just one album with them.

I’ve now learned she is no longer being looked after by Roc Nation — who I first revealed she had signed to in 2022 — and her career is now being guided by former Bros bass player Craig Logan.

Jess has teamed up with Logan Media Entertainment, which is run by Craig, who was in the Eighties pop band that had hits inculding When Will I Be Famous?.

It means that she is now on a roster alongside Pink, Dido, Louise and Beverley Knight.

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My music insider said: “Jess hasn’t had the easiest situation in music. She has found it hard to get a team behind her who she feels really gets who she is and what she is aiming for.

“Now she has Craig and his firm, there are fresh ideas coming through thick and fast. Big things are being discussed for the coming months.”

Despite a turbulent time behind the scenes in 2025, Jess has had one of her most successful years thanks to hit Hold My Hand — a decade after it was released.

The song was named TikTok’s UK song of the year, after it was supercharged by the viral Jet2holidays trend.

Jess said: “I always knew there was something special about it. Melodically it’s instantly uplifting and catchy, but at its heart, the lyrics are powerful. They are about connection. The Jet2 campaign has brought a really fun, light-hearted twist to the song, and seeing it become TikTok’s song of 2025 ten years after its release has been incredible.

“It breathed new life into it, and I’m so grateful to see a wave of a new audience now connect with it and learn more about the song, and me. I am incredibly grateful for the journey this song is on.”

There has been more good news lately, with Jess suggesting she is preparing to pop the question to her girlfriend Alex Scott following the football presenter’s stint in I’m A Celeb.

During her career, Jess has scored seven UK No1 singles, although her last one was I’ll Be There in 2018.

But with a new team behind her, she will be giving it everything she’s got to add to that hits tally.

Fit Shaun tour vow

SHAUN RYDER is preparing to spend the new year whipping himself into shape ahead of the next Happy Mondays tour.

The group will hit the road for 22 dates across March and April.

Shaun tells me in an exclusive chat: “I am determined to get fit for the tour.

“I still get on my bike, and I love swimming. There is a pool at my gym. I do that a few times a week. But my other hip is f***d, and I need it replaced. So I can’t walk like I used to. “I’ve already had one hip replacement. And that f***d up.

“I should have had the other one done ages ago, but I’ve not had time.”

Shaun also vowed to be on his best behaviour on tour, adding: “I think the last time I went out and did any raving was 2000.

“I went and saw Oasis three nights in a row and danced around like a lunatic but I am totally clean now.

“My only addictions are to tea and Haribos. However, I still have two teenage girls at home.

“This means that when I am at home, I am Shaun’s taxi service. It’s f***ing nuts.

“The missus wants me out of the house as quickly as possible. So, you know, it’s like, I have come back from Ireland, and I am going straight out on the road with Black Grape.

“But I have spent the last few days as a taxi driver for the girls.”

The joys of middle age, eh Shaun?

Khloe’s not to be mist

THIGH and mighty Khloe Kardashian flashes the flesh as she promotes her hair mist.

And it comes after she denied getting back together with basketball player Tristan Thompson after their split in 2021.

The Kardashians celebrated Christmas with a gingerbread house that was iced with the family members’ names, and fans noticed his was on there.

But she replied: “He’s my children’s father.”

Ashley’s melon boat

ASHLEY ROBERTS enjoys a slice of the high life as she chomps on a watermelon during a luxury getaway.

The Pussycat Dolls singer wore a bikini top, shades and headscarf as she posed on a yacht in Mauritius.

She has jetted off with her boyfriend, tattoo artist George Rollinson, for a post-Christmas holiday and looks suitably loved up.

Coming back to dreary England in the new year is going to be quite a shock for her.

Zoe: My Britpop snogs

ZOE BALL has revealed she locked lips with famous names while living life to the full in the hedonistic Nineties.

On her Dig It podcast, she played a game of Snog, Marry, Avoid, and joked: “I did snog and avoid quite a few Britpop stars, none of whom I shall mention now.”

Zoe added: “I would avoid Damon [Albarn] because I can’t talk to him because I go all stupid. Young me would definitely have wanted to snog Liam Gallagher way back in the day.

“He would talk to me and I’d be like, ‘Fair, fair’.

“I don’t think I’d have wanted to marry any of them because I don’t think you should marry or meet your idols, quite frankly.

“But Dave Grohl, however, I would have wanted to marry and snog.”

Me too, Zoe.

Sex pistols are firing with Frank

THE SEX PISTOLS and Frank Carter are planning new music.

The punk band, made up of Glen Matlock, Steve Jones and Paul Cook, have been touring with Frank, who replaced John Lydon as singer.

Now Glen wants the group to get into the studio together.

He said in an exclusive chat: “I’ve got a few ideas. I think Frank has. Steve’s a bit of a, ‘Just go and play’ kind of guy. I think Paul’s sort of on the fence about it, we’ll see. I think we’ve got it in us.”

The Sex Pistols and Frank – whose gigs were branded “karaoke” by bitter John – are also heading on tour again this coming year and have a host of dates in America.

Glen, who has a new documentary out, I Was A Teenage Sex Pistol, said: “We should have been just finishing a two-month American tour, but we had to postpone it because Steve fell over coming out of the Chelsea ground and broke his wrist in three places.

“We’ve had to reschedule everything. We’re going to be busy again.”

Fifth ammendments

FIFTH HARMONY will make their comeback in 2026 after a brief reunion at a Jonas Brothers gig.

NORMANI has confirmed the return, eight years after they split up. She will take part with Ally Brooke, Dinah Jane and Lauren Jauregui, but Camila Cabello won’t be back.

Teasing that fans can expect them back, Normani said: “I don’t have loose lips, but yes, 2026 will be one for the books for Fifth Harmony.”

Freedom for Jade

ANGEL Of My Dreams singer Jade has become Angel Of The North – after being given the Freedom of the Borough in South Tyneside, where she’s from.

She received the honour alongside the owner of local chippy Colmans.

Jade said on Instagram: “What an honour this was, with my family and friends by my side.

“If you see me walking my cattle around the town, mind ya business.”

Olivia’s loving New Year No1

OLIVIA DEAN looks set to claim the first No1 album of 2026, as The Art Of Loving is rising back up the charts.

The British singer’s album is currently in the lead and is expected to spend a third non- consecutive week in the top spot, although Sabrina Carpenter’s Man’s Best Friend is just behind her.

And another Liv – Olivia Rodrigo – is also back in the charts.

After I told last week that she had split up with her boyfriend, actor Louis Partridge, fans have shown their support by streaming her albums.

Guts has risen to No21, while Sour is now at No22.

Card pass for B’s fit

SOMETHING tells me Cardi B was more focused on turning heads than watching the match as she turned up at an American football game in New York.

Her 1991 outfit is vintage Chanel, while the giant pearl handbag is from its latest line.

AFTER the expense of Christmas, planning a summer holiday might be the last thing on your mind. But did you know booking now could actually knock HUNDREDS off the price?

From choosing when to travel to how you pack, our expert suggestions will make your trip substantially more affordable. Don’t lose out by waiting until the last minute – do these 15 things NOW to bag the best summer bargain.

1. Set up price alerts for flights

If you haven’t got set dates that you need to travel, you can set up price alerts on flights to find the best deals. 

To do this, click the “price alerts” button on your results page on comparison sites like Skyscanner, Kayak or Google Flights. 

You then need to enter your email address to be alerted if prices drop. 

It’s important to remember that, while comparison sites are great for checking prices across many different airlines, it’s usually cheaper to book directly with the airline, especially after adding on checked bags and seat selection.

2. Book flights at least two months in advance

Don’t wait until the last minute to book your flight – it rarely pays off. 

Instead, book your flights well ahead. 

According to research by Skyscanner, the cheapest time to book international flights is normally two to six months before you travel – meaning that you should be booking as early as January or February if you plan to fly in July or August.

Skyscanner’s Savings Generator tool can help you find the best time to book your flights.

3. Fly midweek if possible

If you can fly midweek, do. 

Opting for a flight on a Tuesday or Wednesday is often cheaper than on weekends due to lower demand. 

According to research by Skyscanner, the most expensive days to fly are Fridays, Sundays and Mondays due to business and weekend travel demand. 

So if you have flexibility, go for a midweek flight to save money.

4. Join hotel loyalty schemes

Hotel loyalty programmes make your holiday spend spread further. 

Member benefits include discounts on bookings, earning points for free nights or upgrades, and redeeming points or vouchers for flights, hotels or other travel expenses. 

In fact, research by Which? suggests that loyalty schemes are the cheapest way to book hotels – outstripping even popular platforms like Booking.com and Hotels.com. 

Most chain hotels have loyalty schemes, which are free to join and promise instant access to discounted room rates. 

Free membership with the likes of Hilton and Accor can save you up to £40 a night – that’s around £300 for a week in Dubai via the Hilton Honors loyalty scheme.

5. Collect air miles and loyalty points

Your weekly shop could help pay for your summer holiday, as long as you sign up to the right loyalty scheme. 

Tesco Clubcard points can be converted into Virgin points: £1.50 of Clubcard vouchers will get you 300 Virgin Points, which can be used for flights and upgrades. 

Meanwhile, Nectar points can be changed into Avios points, with one Avios per 1.6 Nectar points. 

You can use this as currency towards flights with airlines including British Airways, Qatar Airways and Iberia. 

But you’ll need to get spending in Nectar retailers for that flight – with around 18,500 Avios needed for a short-haul economy return flight.

6. Pick a budget-friendly holiday destination

The Algarve, in Portugal, is Europe’s best value-for-money destination, according to a report by the Post Office. 

For the ninth year running, it emerged as the cheapest holiday destination in 2025, thanks to low-cost meals and drinks. 

A three-course meal for two with wine will set you back just £40.33 in this sun-drenched region. 

Resorts in Cape Town, Bulgaria and Spain’s Costa del Sol, where a beer costs around £2.07, £2.47 and £2.46 respectively, also ranked well for affordability. 

Before homing in on your destination, it’s worth checking roughly how much you may spend while you’re away via the report and other cost of living databases like numbeo.com.

7. Research where to get cheap eats

It’s always a good idea to research your destination before you travel – especially if you’re looking to cut costs when you arrive. 

Eating out can burn a serious hole in your pocket, so swot up on best bargain restaurants, food trucks and markets ahead of time. 

Google Maps allows you to filter by price, while review sites like Tripadvisor or OpenTable have value-focused lists. 

When you arrive at your destination, make lunch your main meal – this is when many restaurants offer good value set menus – and avoid eating near the main tourist hotspots.

Sites like TheFork, Time Out and Groupon offer discounts on dining in cities around the world.

8. Snap up free kids’ places… by January

When researching your summer holiday, look out for free children’s places on package holidays. 

These allow one child (aged up to 16) to travel for free with two full-paying adults on a holiday package. 

This includes their flights and accommodation. 

Many holiday operators, such as Tui and Jet2Holidays, also include transfers, food and drink and entertainment like kids’ clubs. 

But you’ll need to be quick – free child places are in high demand and can be limited, so book early to bag the bargain. 

If you’re travelling in peak summer, it’s a good idea to book in early January to get the holiday you’re after.

9. Weigh up a package holiday against a DIY break

Depending on where and when you travel, a package holiday might be the cheapest option, particularly if you’re staying on an all-inclusive basis. 

This means you won’t have to splash out on meals, snacks and drinks locally. 

However, it’s always worth comparing the cost with a DIY break. 

According to MoneySavingExpert, booking late (no more than 10 weeks before departure) is normally the cheapest way to get a package. 

But doing this means you run the risk of losing out on other discounts, such as free kids’ places, which you usually need to book well in advance – so weigh up all your options.

10. Start a savings pot

Parents fork out over £1,000 extra per week during the school holidays, according to research from life insurance broker Reassured. 

This is before they add on an extra £481 per person for a holiday abroad. 

So it’s a good idea to start putting money aside for next year’s summer holiday now. 

Decide how much you want to spend next summer, factoring in the cost of food and experiences while you’re away, and start saving gradually. 

Divide the total into however many pay days you have left until your holiday, and set aside part of the budget in a savings account, repeating the process every payday. 

This should help reduce the financial stress of the holiday when it rolls around.

11. Book airport parking early

The cost of booking airport parking can creep up if left until the last minute. 

The earlier you book, the more likely you are to find the best price. 

For instance, if you turn up at Manchester Airport’s multi-storey car park to park for a week, you’ll fork out £406 – quadruple the price of a booking made four months in advance (£95).

Heathrow’s short-stay car parks cost £616 per week at the turn-up price – £393 more than if you book a month in advance (£223). 

Even booking just a couple of hours ahead can be far cheaper than the price if you pay on arrival. 

Other tips to cut the cost of airport parking include using trusted off-site providers, such as APH, I Love Meet and Greet and Sentinel Car Park, which are usually cheaper than the official airport car parks. 

If you have an early flight or live far from the airport, seek out airport parking hotel deals, which often offer a better rate for parking.

12. Dodge tourist trap destinations

Popular hotspots tend to cost more – so look to lesser-known alternatives for cheaper rates.

For instance, if you’re heading to France, consider Lille instead of Paris for a more affordable French experience. 

In Lille, the average daily cost per person (including accommodation, food, transport and entertainment) is about £128 (€146). 

Meanwhile, the same will cost you £230 (€265) in the French capital, according to budgetyourtrip.com. 

Lesser-known spots help you stretch your budget by offering lower accommodation and dining costs.

13. Keep baggage costs under control

Make sure you know your luggage allowance – and stick to them – to avoid unnecessary baggage fees. 

Each airline has its own restrictions, so check yours well in advance to avoid hefty fees of going over the limit. 

For instance, easyJet charges around £10 per extra kilo at the desk, while Ryanair charges an extra £10.50 per kilo that you go over. 

The cheapest way is to travel light and take hand luggage only. 

Create a packing list in advance, and only pack what you will realistically use. 

Roll, instead of fold, your clothes to maximize space and take travel-sized toiletries instead of bulky bottles. 

If you can’t be this ruthless with your packing then add your checked bag at the time you book your flight – it will cost less than adding it on later.

14. Book hotels on your smartphone for a cheaper rate

This simple trick could save you hundreds of pounds when booking a hotel stay – make the booking on your mobile phone instead of your laptop or computer. 

Which? Travel discovered that this can give you a much better price. 

Platforms such as Booking.com, Expedia and Hotels.com offer mobile-only discounts on selected hotels with up to 40 per cent off stays – but only if your booking is made on a smartphone.

The research found you could slash £270 off the cost of an apartment in Amsterdam on Booking.com, and save £60 on a weekend in Edinburgh with Expedia thanks to these mobile-exclusive prices. 

So to make sure you’ve found the best deal, it’s always worth double checking a mobile and laptop price.

15. Book at the end of the summer season

As demand increases, so does the price. 

Being flexible about when you travel can lead to huge savings. 

If you want to get the best deals on flights and accommodation, consider a holiday later in the summer season. 

Many Brits escape in the early summer months, leading to price peaks in June and July.

Prices become less steep in late August and early September, as it is less popular. 

In 2023, average ticket prices dropped by £94 from their peak in early July to August, according to Expedia. 

Some airlines and hotels will tempt you with discounts to encourage booking in the less popular months. 

So, to save on your sunshine, scheduling your trip for the end of August could be the way to go.

OUR Spotlight On column gives you the lowdown on what to see and do in some of your favourite holiday hotspots – as well as some lesser-known regions.

This week, we’re focusing on Vilnius, the vibrant capital of Lithuania.

Travel Reporter Alice Penwill visited the capital just before Christmas where she found bargain drinks and alternative festive markets.

She said: “I visited the city of Vilnius during the festive season, but you can get cheap drinks and food all year round – not to mention enjoy wandering around its beautiful Old Town.

“If you look up, beautiful churches dominate the skyline – the Old Town has around 40 alone.

“It has winding cobbled streets lined with shops, cafes and restaurants. I discovered one bar called Vynomanai, which sold coffee for €2 (£1.74) and beer for €3 (£2.62).

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“As it was Christmas, you could also grab a hot wine or an Aperol Spritz for €5 (£4.26).

“The best snack I tried was kepta duona, which is essentially fried bread in garlic – which is like the UK’s version of pork scratchings. But, if you want something slightly fancier, Vilnius has four Michelin-star restaurants with tasting menus.

“There’s so much to see, and one quirky visit is to the Lukiskiu Kalejimas prison where you can take a tour around the cells – unbelievably it was used up until 2019.

“But to get a feel of the city, head out into the Old Town early on Sunday morning, you can hear the church bells chime and the streets were practically deserted when I went for a wander.”

MUST SEE/DO

As a city that was occupied by the Nazis then the Soviets, Vilnius is immersed in history – much of which is kept alive today in its charming streets and even at the Lukiškės Prison.

Eagle-eyed Stranger Things fans may recognise the jail as the location where Hopper was held captive at the beginning of the fourth series.

The space has since been transformed into a culture hub and its tarted-up prisoner cells are now home to a series of mini art galleries.

If you are into late-night music, make a beeline for the former prison’s chapel which hosts raves with performances from DJs like Jungle and King Krule in the courtyard.

HIDDEN GEM

Within the capital sits a fascinating mini nation in its own right: The Independent Republic of Užupis.

It was founded in 1997 by a group of artists as an April Fool’s joke and, rather bizarrely, has its own government, constitution and even currency.

The region is less than 1sq km in size but it is well worth strolling its streets.

Book a tour with a local guide, through First Choice, who can point out all the weird and wonderful spots.

BEST VIEW

Scramble to the top of the Hill of Three Crosses (a relatively easy climb) for breathtaking vistas over the city.

Standing 165metres above Vilnius’s centre, the monument at the peak features three illuminated concrete crosses that are visible from most parts of the city.

RATED RESTAURANT

Etno Dvaras is somewhat of a chain in Vilnius, with seven restaurants dotted around the city.

Here you get slap-up Lithuanian grub – think meat, potatoes and plenty of cheese – and each restaurant serves up different dishes depending on the day of the week.

If you tire of traditional food, check out Justa Pasta, an Italian joint serving incredible wine and fresh pasta, or Gogi Guy, a Korean street food spot.

BEST BARS

Vilnius is known for its local craft beer, so you should  swing by one of  its many microbreweries and taprooms.

For local beers with a twist, Alaus Biblioteka (or Beer Library) organises its beer bottles on shelves like books in a library.

There are over 17 beer taps and almost 500 bottled beers to pick from.

For something that packs more of a punch, Alchemikas is a small late-night cocktail bar where talented mixologists shake up unusual concoctions.

HOTEL PICK

The St. Palace Hotel in the heart of the Old Town.

Each room comes with underfloor heating – something you will feel grateful for in a chilly city where the average yearly temperature is about 7C.

THE January sales are about to land and now is an excellent time to bag yourself a bargain, whether it’s a summer holiday, homeware or that
set of golf clubs you’ve had your eye on for months.

But don’t just spend your cash willy-nilly. I’m going to let you in on
my top travel hack that will help you score big in the sales – bagging
yourself a free holiday, just by doing your ordinary shopping.

I can truthfully say, there is no catch. The more you spend, the
greater your getaway.

So, what’s the secret? Avios. But not in the way you know it.

You’ll likely have heard of the flight rewards system, whereby travel
spend is converted into points that can be redeemed against flights,
hotels, shopping and more.

The chances are, however, you’re not using the system properly. And by that, I mean reaping mega benefits every time you spend.

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I’m not just talking about flight spend. You can earn points every
time you catch the train to work, fill up your car with fuel, or do
your weekly grocery shop.

Say hello to the Avios portal. I believe it to be the BEST
points-benefits system out there for travellers – and I’m an avid
subscriber to rewards schemes (special nod to my Boots card and the
MyWaitrose account).

Right now, I am just shy of enough points to fly to New York City in
business class with British Airways (I have 80,000 to be exact).

A business class seat would cost me 88,000 points flying at an
off-peak time. Although I would still have to pay a £199.50 flat fee,
a nominal charge that covers taxes, carrier fees and a fixed Avios
amount.

That cost is small, though, when you consider the fact that the
absolute cheapest business class flight you can currently book to NYC
with British Airways is £1,832 – and that’s in the January sale,
meaning I would have saved a minimum of £1,600 by using points.

To put this into a wider perspective, I could also fly to Sydney in
Australia (55,000 points) or Tokyo and back again (38,500 points each
way) or even to Amsterdam and back again up to FOUR times (10,000
points each way).

Flat fees are tiny on short-haul flights too, with costs to
destinations like Amsterdam, Corfu and Gran Canaria capped at just £1
as opposed to the near £200 for my fancy NYC business class seat.

My high points score has nothing to do with me being a travel editor,
either. In fact, I earn very little from my adventures through work
and barely anything from flights alone.

Instead, it’s my regular, everyday spending that helps me earn big with Avios.

My commute to work, my trips to the BP for fuel and my incessant
fashion purchases on ASOS are what stacks those points up.

Better still, if you’re doing a big splurge in the January sales, you
can rake them in thick and fast.

So, how does it work and where can you earn?

Thousands of retailers have partnerships with the Avios store. You can
earn when you spend on hotels, homeware, sports, fashion, toys,
attractions and entertainment from Argos and TravelZoo to Boots and
Alton Towers.

The number of points you earn varies per retailer, for example when
you purchase from M&S Flowers & Hampers you will earn up to 24 Avios
per £1 spent, whereas booking a rail journey through Trainline will
earn you 1 Avios per £1 spent.

Many retailers have bonus offers for January, including Booking.com where you can bag 8 Avios per £1 until January 31, up from 4 Avios per £1 and Viator which has a 12 Avios per £1 offer until February 7, 2026.

My rule of thumb whenever I shop for something (big or small) is:
check whether the retailer I want to buy from is on the Avios shop,
and if not, can I buy the product I want from another retailer that
will earn me points?

To collect points on in-store purchases, you simply have to link  your
card – any card – to your account and spend on this card in
Avios-linked stores.

To make online purchases, you have to register your visit to the
retailers website by first going through the Avios shop website
(avios.com).

Simply log on, click on ‘collect avios’ and search for the retailer in the ‘search for brands’ box.

Once you’ve found the retailer, click on ‘shop now’ to register your visit and carry out your online shopping as you would normally. It really is that simple.

If, like me, you do a lot of shopping on your phone, I’d recommend
downloading the Avios app, which makes things a little easier and
keeps you logged in.

Your Avios is then redeemable with certain airlines, which includes
OneWorld Alliance partners like British Airways and Qatar Airways as
well as Aer Lingus and Vueling.

You can also book holiday packages, including flights and hotels, through British Airways Holidays.

So, how long does it take before you earn yourself enough for a free
flight or holiday? Well, that’s difficult to answer.

Last time I wrote about Avios was in April 2025 and back
then I had 57,000 points. Now I have 80,000 – so I’ve earned myself
23,000 points in 8 months, the equivalent of a return flight to
Brussels, Paris or Turin in Italy.

But I’m single and in the process of buying my first home, so my
spending is frugal.

If you use this hack to do your January sale shopping, however, you’ll
certainly be one step closer to bagging yourself a free getaway.

Here’s some useful tips for shopping through the Avios Shop….

Get yourself an Amex

First things first, get yourself an American Express (AMEX) credit
card, if you don’t already have one. Yes, you don’t technically need
one in order to collect points, but it’s an easy way to boost your
earnings. I have the free British Airways Amex.

Just make sure you pay it off in full every month. And if you don’t
trust yourself to do all of your spending on that card, start by
committing to a small and regular spend, like the weekly food shop.

If you’re successfully approved for a British Airways free Amex,
you’ll be given a bonus 5,000 Avios if you spend £2,000 in the first
three months of having the card.

It’s an incentive – and credit card companies are hoping that you forget to pay them back, so just make sure you have enough money in your current account to pay off the spend and don’t get caught out.

Link your accounts

Accounts that you use regularly like Uber are a great way of boosting
your points. You can link certain regular accounts you use to your
Avios account.

For example, I have my BPme Rewards and Uber account both linked to my Avios one, which means I don’t need to log on and register my visit as
explained above, with normal online shopping.

Everything is done automatically and I’m earning points without lifting a finger.

I book my train to work through Uber every time and it earns me a
steady and regular number of points every month.

Look for deals

Right now you can bag a bonus 50 per cent Avios with certain retailers.

There are so many deals at various times of the year. There’s
also special offers on certain deals such as The Wine Flyer, whereby
you earn a promises amount of points if you spend over a certain
figure on bottles.

Most recently, over the Christmas period, if you spent over £150 on wine through the Avios shop, you’d bag 5,000 bonus Avios on top of the usual 5 Avios per £1 spent,

But my rule is never to spend unless you really need it. The whole
point of a free holiday or flight is that you’re only spending on what
you would normally.

Sign up your parent/partner/pal

You’ll bag a bonus 500 Avios if you refer a friend – a simple referral
code does the trick.

You’ll also notice certain offers, such as a bonus 9,000 Avios if you order a second Amex linked to your account for a partner or child to spend on.

You’ll then be responsible for paying off their spend, however. But there’s nothing stopping you from ordering a second card and not passing it over to that person, though.

That way you’ll bag the bonus points without the panic. Just keep your
eyes peeled for those offers in your inbox.

For more on how to save money on your next travel trip, read more from one woman who flies every month and does 7 things to save herself cash.

 And here are our Sun-approved booking tips, plane hacks and travel products that can save you hundreds on holiday.

AS the year comes to a close, most theme parks across the UK have shut up shop for the season.

But theme park fanatics have plenty to look forward to in 2026, as both thrillseekers and families with young children can expect new favourites.

2026 is set to be a huge year in the world of theme parks and attractions – here are the most exciting new rides and rollercoasters set to open next year.

Bluey Ride, Alton Towers, UK

Alton Towers will welcome the world’s first ever Bluey coaster next year.

The new addition will sit inside of Alton Towers’ CBeebies Land, home to rides like the Octonauts Rollercoaster Adventure and Peter Rabbit Hippity Hop.

As well as enjoying a brand new ride, Bluey fans can take part in the popular Heeler family interactive show, and stay to meet Bluey and Bingo afterwards.

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RIDE ON

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SPEEDING UP

New theme park with world’s fastest and tallest rollercoaster to FINALLY open

As well as this, superfan families have the option to book a sleep over in the CBeebies Land Hotel’s Bluey-themed bedroom.

“We’re keeping the exact details and launch date under wraps for now” said Vice President at Alton Towers Resort, Bianca Sammut.

“But Bluey’s limitless energy is sure to be reflected in our new junior coaster.”

The junior coaster is set to open in Spring 2026.

Frozen Ever After ride, Disneyland Paris

Excitement is building as Disneyland Paris prepares to open their World of Frozen land in Spring 2026.

The new land will see the introduction of a new ride at Disneyland Paris: Frozen Ever After.

The ride is inspired by the popular version at Disneyworld’s EPCOT in Florida.

Boarding this boat-themed ride will take visitors on a journey through the familiar scenes of Disney’s Frozen.

Fans can sing along to Frozen tunes as they look out for the movie’s popular characters in animatronic form.

Frozen Ever After will be less of a fear-inducing ride and more of an immersive experience.

It is a slow-moving journey with descents down short waterfalls – so bare in mind that you might get wet!

Visitors will also be able to stroll through Arendelle, as well as meet Anna, Elsa and Olaf.

Frozen Ever After, and the World of Frozen land, is set to open on 29 March 2026.

Drakon and Vild Swing, Paultons Park, UK

Paultons Park in Hampshire are due to open their first ever inverting rollercoaster, as well as a Wild Swing ride in the spring of 2026.

The amusement park is home to the famous Peppa Pig World, but new coaster Drakon is set to thrill an older crowd.

Drakon riders can expect to coast their way up a vertical lift hill before plummeting into a beyond vertical drop.

The terrifying drop means that riders will hang over the edge at an angle greater than 90°, or steeper than falling straight down.

As well as this, visitors can expect to regularly ride upside down, due to the inverting design.

The inverting coaster even intertwines with Raven – the new name for the park’s Gerstlauer Bobsled ride previously named Cobra.

As well as Drakon, the park will be introducing the ‘Vild Swing’ ride.

Vild Swing is a 12m-high ART Wild Swing ride, the first of its kind to land in the UK.

The family-friendly ride is a free-swinging gondola with no rollovers, therefore it will be more of a gentle thrill than Drakon.

The rides will be part of the theme park’s brand new Viking-themed world: Valgard – Realm of the Vikings.

The new themed area cost roughly £12m to build, and is set to open in May 2026.

Spider-themed ride, Gröna Lund, Sweden

Gröna Lund (or “Green Grove”) in Sweden is Stockholm’s oldest amusement park.

It’s located on Stockholm‘s Djurgården Island, and has over 30 rides.

The park is home to a mix of both thrilling coasters and family-friendly rides, and is now set to open a brand new thrill ride: Spindeln (The Spider).

Spindeln will be a Super Jumper ride – the first of its kind to arrive in Sweden.

Created by the Italian SBF Visa Group, the Super Jumper is made up of multiple arms which rise and fall quickly, designed to look like the spider’s legs.

This creates a bouncing effect as the central tower rotates, meaning riders can expect plenty of spooky sudden jumps and spins.

The thrill ride has space for 42 riders, and is ideal for older and younger guests alike.

Spindeln will be the first Super Jumper in the world to allow younger children to ride, with a minimum height requirement of 100cm when accompanied by an adult.

The coaster is set to open to the public in Summer 2026.

Raiponce Tangled Spin, Disneyland Paris

March 2026 will see Disneyland Paris open up not one, but two brand new themed worlds.

As well as introducing the brand new World of Frozen, the land previously known as Walt Disney Studios Park will become Disney Adventure World.

The park revamp also sees the addition of a brand new ride, Raiponce Tangled Spin.

Visitors will be able to climb aboard a small gondola that gently turns under sparkling lanterns, just like the famous scene in the film Tangled.

The glowing lanterns illuminate ceiling paintings inspired by those made by the princess in the popular movie.

This will be the second standalone Tangled themed ride across Disney parks worldwide, alongside Rapunzel’s Lantern Festival at Tokyo DisneySea.

The gentle ride is suitable for all ages, and will open alongside Frozen Ever After on 29 March 2026.

Aviktas, Blackpool Pleasure Beach Resort, UK

Blackpool’s Pleasure Beach is known for its rides such as Valhalla, Big Dipper as well as its Nickelodeon Land.

And now the amusement park have invested £8.72m into a new ride, set to be the tallest of its kind in the UK by almost double.

Aviktas will be a Gyro Swing ride – a giant spinning pendulum seating 40 visitors.

Riders will face outwards to sea as they swing 120°, reaching a maximum height of 138 feet.

The Gyro Swing ride is “one of the most exciting flat rides in existence” said CEO of Pleasure Beach Resort, Amanda Thompson OBE.

“It’s dynamic, fast, and incredibly high, as well as being completely weightless at the top”.

Aviktas is currently under construction, and due to open in 2026.

The amusement park also recently revamped their Launch Pad ride.

The shot tower ride had its cylinder replaced and reopened in May of 2025.

This made for more powerful launches, intense g-force, and moments of weightlessness.

“This is a great re-imagining. The ride has got back its ‘oomph’” said Scott Bickerton, owner of YouTube channel Your Experience Guide.

“You can really feel the g-force and there’s a great moment of airtime at the top. It’s amazing to have this ride back.” 

THE Canary Islands have long been a go-to destination for winter sun.

But you can see similar beaches, luscious landscapes and year-round sunshine further into the Atlantic Ocean, with a Portuguese twist.

The Azores are an archipelago of nine islands, between 870 to 1,000 miles west of Portugal.

They have even been nicknamed the “Hawaii of Europe” due to their vibrant greenery and dramatic scenery.

They also share a similar volcanic landscape, with 26 active volcanoes spread across the islands.

However, the lesser-trodden Azores do not see as many visitors as winter sun competitors Lanzarote and Tenerife.

Read more on tropical islands

HIDDEN PARADISE

Look around the idyllic tropical island – with only 6,000 visitors a year

SHORE THING

I went to the Jurassic Park-like tropical island that has direct BA flights

They’re easy to get to from the UK, with airlines British Airways operating direct flights from London to São Miguel.

Once you’ve landed in São Miguel, you can hop from island to island by ferry or inter-island flight.

The best time to visit them is in spring or summer, when temperatures peak to a sunny 25 °C.

Plus, these islands make for a rather inexpensive holiday.

Most attractions are outdoor spectacles, meaning that they are free to admire.

Food and drink is affordable across the islands, too, with lunch and a drink averaging around just €10.

São Miguel – best for water sports and volcanic baths

São Miguel is the largest and most popular of the islands, and is home to some mind-blowing nature and wildlife.

It is nicknamed “The Green Island” for its signature rolling green hills backed by thick forests.

There is plenty of beautiful flora which makes the island burst with colour in springtime – from bright blue hydrangeas to pink rhododendron.

The volcanic island is also home to over 30 geysers, waterfalls, geothermal pools, as well as two crater lakes: one green and one blue.

There is also plenty of wildlife to spot, including whales, dolphins, turtles lizards and exotic birds.

The best time of year to visit for bird, whale and dolphin watching is from April to October.

Apart from admiring the nature, there are plenty of unique places to visit in São Miguel like the island’s pineapple plantation and tea factory.

Santa Maria – best for cheap food and sunbathing

Santa Maria is the southernmost island in the Azores, meaning it is the hottest and sunniest option.

It’s also a super cheap destination, with a meal and a pint costing an average of £8.91 per person.

It’s also home to the largest waterfall in the Azores, Aveiro Waterfall.

It’s great for sporty travellers, with plenty of walking trails, snorkelling and diving.

There’s 55 locations to go scuba diving, including caves and wrecks where you can come face to face with manta rays and whale sharks.

Hike to the island’s highest point, Pico Alto, for views over the rugged coastline.

For a unique experience, head to Barreiro de Faneca – the island’s vast “Red Desert” with a Martian-like landscape.

Or for something more chilled, you can spend your days sunbathing on its golden sand beaches to unwind.

Central Group – best for outdoor adventurers

The Central Group is a cluster of five small Azores islands – Pico, Faial, Graciosa, São Jorge, and Terceira.

The latter three islands are sometimes referred to as “The Triangle” due to their formation in the water.

Pico is famously home to Mount Pico, the highest mountain in Portugal that towers over the islands.

Faial, on the other hand, is a tiny island more suited to day trip visits.

It’s often considered the best spot among the islands for whale and dolphin watching.

Graciosa, or the “White Island”, is a peaceful UNESCO biosphere reserve.

With its unique features like craters and lava caves, this island is more for adventure and exploring than sunbathing.

Similarly, São Jorge is known for its rare landscape features.

Most notably it is known for its fajãs, which are flat coastal plains formed by lava flows.

Terceira is one of the larger islands in the Azores, and is home to their oldest city – Angra de Heroísmo.

Here, cobbled streets and historic buildings give this island a more bustling and lived-in feel than the others in the Central Group.

Flores and Corvo – best for remote island feel

Flores and Corvo are known as the Western islands of the Azores.

These islands are not as frequently visited as others, and make for a real remote island experience.

Flores is bursting with wild greenery and unspoilt landscapes, and is often called the most beautiful island in the Azores.

“Flores” is the Portuguese word for “flowers” – and this island really lives up to its name, blooming with colour in springtime.

And if you’re looking to feel like you’ve really gotten far away from the real world, Corvo is the smallest and most remote island of the archipelago.

The island is home to just 430 people, who all live in one village called Vila do Corvo.

The island itself is tiny, covering just over 17 square kilometres.

Corvo only received electricity in 1963, and is most popular with birdwatchers and hikers.

These westernmost islands feel truly isolated – the perfect spot if you’re after that castaway, edge-of-the-world experience.

EVERYONE deserves a luxury holiday, but few of us have the wallet to fund it.

Unless, that is, you opt for one particular country that takes just three hours to fly to from the UK, with year-round t-shirt temperatures and some VERY cheap all-inclusive hotels.

If you want to get away from the obvious – and the crowds – without sacrificing any indulgence, Tunisia hits the right note. 

This North African country welcomed a far smaller number of Brits in 2024 – 326,874 according to Bradt Travel Guide to Tunisia. 

And when you compare it to Spain, the top holiday destination for British tourists, welcoming 17.8 million of us in 2024, Tunisia has far fewer.

It may be a lesser-visited country, but it has big bargains for holidaymakers.

According to TravelSupermarket, Tunisia offers some of the very cheapest 5-star holidays on the market, averaging at £614pp.

Seven nights’ all-inclusive stay at the 5-star Hotel Tour Khalef costs as little as £553 with TUI, including return flights from London Gatwick.

In sunny Sousse, seven nights’ B&B at the 5-star Movenpick Resort & Marine Spa Sousse is available from just £233 pp with Thomas Cook. Price includes return flights from Southend.

If you settle for four stars, you can make it even cheaper. Seven nights’ B&B at the 4-star Iberostar Waves Averroes in Hammamet is bookable from £173 pp with Holiday Best, including return flights from London Luton.

Meanwhile, seven nights’ half board at the 5-star Iberostar Selection Kuriat Palace in Monastir is bookable from £239 pp with Loveholidays, including return flights from London Southend.

Here you have the wide sands of Monastir Beach and a wide range of activities on offer, from jet skiing to parasailing. 

If you’re looking for something off the beaten track, you could stretch your legs in the landscaped gardens of Falaise Park, set on the cliffside.

Or head 34 miles down the road to Moknine to see local artisans making traditional earthenware jars and jugs.

Despite its relatively small size (roughly the same as Greece), Tunisia packs a punch. 

With the blue of the Med meeting the heat of North Africa, it’s perfect for a sun-kissed break.

Its most famous beaches include Hammamet, Sousse, Monastir and Mahdia, which have long stretches of golden sand backed by palm trees and all-inclusive resorts.

There’s also Djerba, an island just off the south coast of Tunisia that is still relatively undiscovered by Brits.

It has a Mediterranean feel, with cobbled streets lined with white-washed buildings, blue window shutters and vibrant pink bougainvillea.

And despite its resemblance to trendy Greek islands, it’s also a great-value option, with a cup of strong coffee setting you back just 25p.

If you venture away from the coast, you’ll find a photographer’s dream – Pink Flamingo Lake.

Ignored by most tourists, it turns pink at sunset as flamingos feed in the shallows.

Back on the mainland, further north, the hilltop village of Sidi Bou Said would also be right at home on a Greek isle.

The town is picture postcard pretty with its blue-and-white painted houses and panoramic sea views.

Grab a mint tea on the terrace at Café des Nattes (£2) or queue at the doughnut stand for the freshly made Tunisian treats, which cost just 40p.

The capital, Tunis, is found on the northeastern coast.

It’s home to an ancient Medina, Roman Mosaics and plenty of bars and restaurants.

While most tourists wander the main souks of the Medina, the historic Jewish quarter, Hara is often overlooked. 

Visit the last surviving synagogue, explore the tailoring shops and try Jewish-Tunisian pastries made with dates and semolina. 

Other alternative takes on the capital include watching an independent film at the art-deco Cinema Le Rio, which is barely visited by tourists, or visiting Mornag, a major wine-producing region.

You can’t leave Tunisia without discovering more about its ancient civilisations. 

It’s a fascinating melting pot of Berber, Phoenician, Roman, Byzantine, Arab and French influences – with nine UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

The country has some of the best Roman sites outside Italy, including Dougga, a Roman city on a hilltop surrounded by olive groves.

There’s also El Djem Amphitheatre, the largest colosseum in North Africa, where Ridley Scott shot parts of his Oscar-winning movie Gladiator.

It is better preserved – and far less crowded – than its more famous cousin in Rome.

Nearby, the small theatre ruins and restored underground villas are even quieter, yet still beautifully conserved. 

Most tourists dip into Berber culture with a quick stop in Matmata’s cave houses, used as a filming location for Star Wars.

But you can take a deeper dive by trekking the Dahar Trails and exploring the hidden granary forts around Tataouine.

Tunisia’s long wellness tradition means you’re perfectly placed for a spot of pampering.

Try swapping lounging on the beach for some natural hot springs relaxation.

On the northern cliffs of Cap Bon, Korbous Hot Springs flow straight into the sea – join locals who come for therapeutic dips.

Benefits of soaking in the mineral-rich waters include improved circulation, pain and stress reduction and better skin health.

Prices correct at the time of publication.

SPOTTING yet another shark, my sister Hayley shouts: “Quick! There are loads over here,” pointing towards the edge of the reef.

We’ve only just jumped into the sea on our 90-minute guided snorkelling trip, £53 each, so I decide to closely follow the guide instead, who points out moray eels, box fish and spotted eagle rays, plus the aforementioned reef sharks, which are thankfully harmless.

There is coral aplenty, and it’s teeming with sea life in every colour of the rainbow, as if I’ve swum straight into a scene from Finding Nemo.

Water View

Staying in a water villa at Oblu Xperience Ailafushi – complete with an outdoor rainfall shower and deck with a ladder straight into the turquoise water below – offers the classic Maldives experience.

The sound of the waves lapping beneath us is more calming than any white noise track I’ve listened to.

Thankfully, this all-inclusive resort on Ailafushi island is not solely aimed at couples, unlike many luxury getaways in the Maldives.

ROCKIN’ AROUND

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COSTA LITTLE

This is Spain’s cheapest island with £169pp holidays – and it’s still 23C

Even better, it’s just a 15-minute speedboat ride from the capital Malé, which works out much cheaper than a sea-plane transfer.

The main restaurant, Element X, is a buffet eatery, which also helps keep costs down.

Here, we find dishes from all over the world, but it’s the Indian selection with rich, buttery paneer masala, spicy lentil daal and fresh roti, that most hits the spot.

All the action on Ailafushi centres around the main pool, the X360 bar and the neighbouring beach, where water shoes prove handy for the coral.

Daily activities include aqua Zumba, water polo and volleyball, plus a DJ hits the decks at sunset.

There’s even a twice-weekly foam party, which reminds us of teenage trips to Ibiza.

After a few frozen piña coladas, the nightly karaoke proves entertaining, and there’s a games room complete with pool tables, board games and huge screens playing live sport.

But it’s the water slide that drops you straight into the Indian ocean that becomes our favourite activity.

Beach Happy

At the other side of the island – a 10-minute stroll away – we find the Elena Spa And Wellness Centre, one of the Maldives’ largest spas, with landscaped tropical gardens that blend indoors with outdoors.

My treatment room overlooks the beach, and beneath the spa soundtrack I can hear the gentle sound of the waves.

The Balinese massage, £57 for 60 minutes, melts away tension from our long flight, while Hayley’s detoxifying lymph massage leaves her abs looking super-sculpted.

As well as treatments, there’s a steam room, sauna and salt water infinity pool, £8 for an hour, plus a juice bike which you can pedal to blend your fruits of choice.

Later, on the 90-minute dolphin cruise, which costs £53 each, we camp out on the bow of the boat, and are soon fortunate enough to spy a pod complete with a calf leaping out of the water just as the sunset turns the sky orange.

We celebrate with a delicious five-course lobster-themed beach dinner from The Copper Pot food truck, £60 each, that includes brown butter lobster tortellini, poached lobster, fennel and mango salad and a gigantic lobster thermidor.

Another ray in paradise

Our most memorable evening is spent at Oblu’s underwater restaurant Only Blu.

At 6.8m below sea level, we tuck into three courses with wine pairings, and marvel at the marine life on the other side of the super-sized windows.

As we’re feasting on scallops with pickles and cauliflower, and Maldivian yellowfin tuna poke, a 5ft-long nurse shark glides past and hundreds of tiny fish quickly dart into the reef to camouflage themselves among the coral.

It’s not long before we spy a similar-sized blacktip reef shark, and I lose count of the number of rays that appear alongside brightly coloured trigger and lion fish, before my main course of melt-in-the-mouth, pan-fried reef fish with corn mash and an olive and caper emulsion arrives.

A gulab jamun cheesecake and rich deconstructed banoffee pie don’t disappoint either, and the night proves well worth the extra £95 each.

With the fish still entertaining us just a few feet away, if we could, we’d both happily stay here until sunrise.

ISLE BE BACK

Meanwhile, writer Samantha Rea found joy on the island of Sark.

The “toast rack” – which is basically a row of benches on a trailer pulled by a tractor – is chugging me uphill from the harbour.

With no seat belts or doors, I hold on for dear life.

But seeing as only tractors and horse-drawn carriages are allowed on the tiny isle of Sark (yes, there are no cars!), this is the best way to reach The Avenue, Sark’s main street.

And at £1.80 a ride, it’s worth a go.

Sitting in the English Channel, just off the French coast, Sark is 3.5 miles long and 1.5 miles wide with some fab foodie gems.

At Caragh Chocolates, I decorate truffles and a huge slab with hazelnuts, fudge and cranberries alongside owner Caragh, before leaving with my delicious creations.

Ninety-minute workshops cost £45 (Caraghchocolates.com).

While at cosy Nova’s Bistro, portions are generous and the rich beef stew with pastry lid, £26, and treacle tart, £9.50 (@Novas. bistro) are well worth the 20-minute walk from Stocks Hotel, where I’m kipping

I walk off some of my indulgence the next day on a one-hour tour of La Seigneurie House and Gardens, with its gorgeous fountains, bridges and chapel. It’s owned by a family who are like Sark’s royals and has a fascinating history. Entry costs £8 (Laseigneurie desercq.uk).

Sark is also great for wild swimming – the best spots being Dixcart Bay, Les Fontaine Bay and La Grande Greve.

Meanwhile, if you want to see the Milky Way once night falls, head to Sark Observatory, £10 (Darkskyisland. co.uk).

And just like the song, you’ll hopefully soon be counting stars. . .

UK flights to Guernsey cost from £100 return. Ferries to Sark cost from £38.50 return (Sarkshipping.gg).

Double rooms at Stocks Hotel cost from £250 B&B (Stockshotel.com).

THE UK is home to some breath-takingly beautiful seaside towns.

So its no surprise that each summer, hoards of holidaymakers flock to the coasts to make the most of the sun.

However, visiting these seaside towns in winter can actually be a much better time to go.

Visiting in winter gives you all the time, peace and quiet to enjoy the beauty of these towns – sometimes practically all to yourself.

So whether you’re looking for a big family day out with amusements and plenty to do, or a quaint and scenic spot to enjoy some fish and chips – we’ve rounded up some of the best seaside towns to visit this winter.

Robin Hood’s Bay, North Yorkshire

The dramatic cliffs of Robin Hood’s Bay, a small village in North Yorkshire, feel even more magical during the winter.

Read more on seasie towns

TIME TO GO

I lived on UK seaside town high street named one of Time Out’s coolest in world

SANDS GREAT!

I visited the English seaside town that’s better in autumn with new hotels

Weathered rock faces, continuously battered by a moody sea, and views of windswept countryside create an ambience that would fit in well with an Emily Brontë novel.

Don’t expect stereotypical seaside beauty here.

Instead it’s the ruggedness of the place that makes it special, with asymmetrical houses lining the hilly streets and pokey shops where huge bay windows showcase books and little souvenirs.

Wrap up warm for a ramble along the Cleveland Way coastal path to the neighbouring shores of Whitby before holing up in one of the cosy pubs in front of a roaring fire.

For cracking homemade pub grub, head to the 17th century Smuggler’s Inn, so named because of the region’s history as a smuggling cove, where spirits, tea and tobacco were snuck through cavernous tunnels.

– Sophie Swietochowski, Assistant Travel Editor

Broadstairs, Kent

Having made the move from London to Kent nearly four years ago, it’s fair to say I’ve explored my fair share of seaside towns.

But one that I always love visiting even in winter is Broadstairs.

The magic of the town comes alive when the crowds have gone, where you can head to The Mermaid for some fish and chips before going to the Charles Dickens for a pint.

It’s even great in the winter if you need to do some early Christmas shopping.

I’ve already half finished my list of presents thanks to the independent stores. Kope + Loko does beautiful clothing behind its coffee shop while Hope by SP is the best for interiors and knick knacks.

Make time for the award-winning,cosy Bar Ingo for some small plates, where even now I don’t understand how a simple fish of mushrooms and butter beans can be one of the best things I’ve eaten.

The fresh glass of Portuguese wine might have perhaps been one of the reasons…

If you don’t want to get the last train, book a stay at the newly-opened Smiths Townhouse, a a trendy yet intimate space that makes you feel like you are staying at your cool mate’s house.

– Kara Godfrey, Deputy Travel Editor

Southwold, Sussex

Southwold always holds a special place in my heart because of the sheer amount of weekends I’ve had there with my family over the years, especially during blustery winter.

The beach is great, but let’s face it when it gets cold, you’re just wanting to go inside

Despite this, it is worth going for a quick stroll to see the multi-coloured beach huts, as well as the traditional amusement arcades.

The town has great shops as well as an Adnams brewery – you can go and experience tastings and tours too.

There are plenty of fish and chip shops throughout the town, but for the best ones head to the Sole Bay Fish Company which is out of the town towards the harbour.

– Alice Penwill, Travel Reporter

Dartmouth, Devon

Whilst not strictly a ‘seaside’ town, Dartmouth does sit on the coastline in Devon and features pretty beaches.

The waterfront town is full of charm, with cobblestones, streets and wonky buildings.

All centred around a harbour, it is the ideal place for a day trip with everything close together.

Tucked away from the more popular seaside towns of Torquay and Paignton, Dartmouth is a top coastal retreat.

It sits on the banks of the River Dart and its estuary position is ideal for boat trips and cruises that venture from the town to the sea. 

And at Castle Cove, there is a small shingle beach only accessible when the tide is low.

For those who don’t like the crowded beaches and arcades found in seaside towns across the country, Dartmouth is a great alternative.

– Cyann Fielding, Travel Reporter

Seahouses, Northumberland

The vast swathes of sweeping beaches on the Northumbrian coast from Seahouses up to Bamburgh are beautiful at any time of year.

But winter means less crowds and the chance to explore the dramatic coastline on wonderful windswept walks.

This pretty fishing village has a bustling Victorian harbour – enjoy some of the freshest fish and chips at Neptune’s Fish Restaurant.

Seahouses is also a great base for joining boat trips over to the Farne Islands, home to one of the UK’s largest colonies of Atlantic grey seals.

Serenity Farne Island Boat Tours has special grey seal cruises with pups born from October to December.

The cruises also offer an insight into the heroism of Grace Darling, the lighthouse keeper’s daughter who rescued survivors of the SS Forfarshire paddle steamer in 1838.

For a cosy end to a blustery beach walk, enjoy a pint at the Olde Ship Inn that has been serving the community since 1812.

– Lisa Minot, Head of Travel

Wells-next-the-Sea, Norfolk

I was born and raised in this North Norfolk seaside town which surges in popularity in summer – and I can understand why we draw in the crowds!

But in the winter, you can enjoy all the beauty of the town without the chaos that comes with the summer holidays.

Next door to royal favourite Holkham, Wells-next-the-Sea has everything you could want for a day at the seaside.

This includes a fishing boat-dotted quay to go crabbing, a high street with independent shops, traditional arcades, a sweeping golden beach, and some of the best fish and chips you’ll ever eat. (Tip from a local – French’s beats Plattens for me!)

I grew up quay jumping with my friends and causing mischief at the annual carnival, which takes over the town with unique music acts, foods, crafts and events.

But one of my favourite and lesser-known parts about my hometown is that you can go alpaca trekking across the marshes.

Book an alpaca trek and bring some apples in your bag, and suddenly you’re having the most unique day out at the seaside!

Plus, the grand Albatross boat that sits on the quayside once used to serve Dutch pancakes – now it’s opening up as a quirky four-room boat B&B.

For me, Wells-next-the-Sea is the best seaside town in Norfolk, with its perfect blend of seaside tradition and quirky character.

– Jenna Stevens, Travel Writer

St Mawes, Cornwall

St Mawes is a bit of a unicorn in terms of Cornish seaside towns – it’s beautiful with great pubs and restaurants, but is hardly ever busy because the windy roads into the centre make it virtually impossible for coaches to get there. 

As a result, the town is a wonderfully peaceful coastal destination, where children can play on the sand while their parents sip their pint in the nearby pub. 

While I love St Mawes in the summer, which is also when I usually visit, it’s also a fantastic winter break thanks to all the places to eat and drink. 

The Rising Sun is great for a lunchtime drink if the sun’s shining, as it beams right down on the front courtyard. 

But the St Mawes Hotel is my favourite pub, with excellent food served too. Bagsie one of the squidgy leather sofas and play a boardgame with views of sea from the balcony and a pint of Cornish cider. 

Plus the kids can catch a movie in the hotel’s own private cinema. 

If you fancy a bracing walk, the Place Ferry takes you over to the SW Coastal Path along the Roseland Peninsula. 

Or alternatively, check out the St Mawes Castle that was built by Henry VIII – which is even more fun on a blustery day.

– Caroline McGuire, Head of Travel – Digital

Blackpool, Lancashire

When it comes to the British seaside, Blackpool has a bit of everything.

Sea swimming and sunbathing are off the agenda in winter (for me, anyway) but between September and December is the best time to visit.

The Blackpool illuminations have been running for 140 years and are a staple winter attraction along the seafront.

The streets are decorated with light installations, illuminated trails and even the classic Blackpool trams are kitted out with hundreds of fairy lights. 

The seaside town’s unique attractions are just as fun in the winter months.

You can visit the iconic Blackpool Tower year-round and Blackpool Pleasure Beach is open until the end of November with special Winter Weekends on selected days until March.

You can also ice skate for free on the beach at the Christmas by the Sea village in front of Blackpool Tower. 

However, nothing beats a good fish and chip tea, sitting on a bench on the promenade. It’s what England does best, whatever the weather.

– Helen Wright, Travel Writer

THERE’S no shortage of brilliant pubs dotted across the UK – and we’ve rounded up some of the very best.

We’ve scoured the UK to find places that are great for kids, have brilliant beer gardens and most importantly – won’t break the bank.

With family-friendly options and some of the most affordable pints in the UK, these pubs tick every box.

From the Scottish Highlands down to Cornish beaches, here’s some of the top picks for pints.

Best for families

Ailean Chraggan, Highlands

When bringing the whole family along to the pub, it’s always a bonus to find yourself in one with cheap children’s meals and plenty of activities to keep the kids busy.

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Luckily, we’ve found pubs all across the UK that cater to kids brilliantly.

Scottish blogger Adele Murray from Aberfeldy recommends a cosy pub in the heart of the Highlands.

“One of my family’s favourite pubs is Ailean Chraggan” she says, a spot known as “The Crags” by locals.

“It’s great for families, with a beer garden and outdoor play area”.

When it comes to food, the kid’s menu is simple and well-priced.

A children’s mac and cheese dish costs £6.25, and garlic ciabatta costs £3.50.

Plus, there’s some delicious and locally-sourced options for adults too.

“The Scottish mussels are delicious and come from the west coast” (£9.50 as a starter, £18.95 as a main).

The Tree House, Ayr

The Tree House in Ayr is also another great option for families.

Their “Little Foodies” offer for kids includes a main, drink and ice cream for only £3.50!

Just make sure you’re visiting between 3 – 5pm if it’s term time, or between 12 – 7pm if it’s during the school holidays.

The Mermaid, Cornwall

Down in the south of England, Sun reader Anne Walton recommends The Mermaid on the beach of Porth, Cornwall.

“You can just put the kids on the beach and watch them while you’re having a drink” she says. “They do a very nice Chicken New Yorker“.

“It’s also great for kids as they serve little meals – it was perfect for my granddaughter who’s only 11 months old”.

Jolly Sailers, Norfolk

Over in East Anglia, the Jolly Sailors in Brancaster Staithe is a fantastic option for families in North Norfolk.

The pub has a massive garden with a wooden playground, colouring and is dog-friendly if you’re coming in from a family beach walk with your pet.

Plus for adults there’s a beach hut bar with a humungous rum menu with delicious rum cocktails that opens up in the summer.

You’ll also find events with live sea shanty music, quizzes, festivals and bouncy castles depending on when you visit – Easter family fun days are particularly great for kids.

There’s also a beach hut serving ice cream flavours that kids go crazy for, from bright-blue bubble gum to the swirly pink “unicorn” flavour.

Food is super affordable, with the “Little Sailors” menu offering tomato pasta with cheese for £6.25 or a sizeable kids margherita for £6.95.

Brewdog, London

And if you’re in or around London, Sun Head of Digital Travel Caroline McGuire found the capital’s most family-friendly pub.

Brewdog at London Waterloo station has a massive slide and duckpin bowling lanes inside.

There’s a great kids menu with cheap pizza and chicken nugget meals, and even an in-house ice cream van.

Best for cheap eats

The Beck, Mablethorpe

There’s nothing worse than strolling into an unassuming pub only to be faced with a menu showing £20 mains and £7 pints.

Sometimes all you want is a pit-stop for some cheap and cheerful pub grub and a drink.

Sun reader Linda McDonnell recommends The Beck in Mablethorpe, Lincolnshire.

“They do a carvery every day throughout the year and it’s great value, especially for kids” she says (under-twos can eat for just £3).

When it comes to carvery there’s three tiers, and they’re all cheap: costing £8.99 for a small portion, £9.99 for medium and just £13.99 to go large.

“They also have lots of special offers” she says, “like two-for-one meals.”

The Two Tubs, Bury

And if you’re after a cheap pint, Bury in Greater Manchester was found to be the cheapest town to buy a beer in England.

The average cost of a pint here is just £2.75, compared to the national average of £5.17.

One of the best pubs to visit in this area is The Two Tubs, a family-run joint that won a ‘Community Hero’ award in hospitality due to its welcoming atmosphere and great prices.

They even offer a free hot meal and a shot of port for serving soldiers and veterans on “Military Monday”.

The only catch is that they don’t serve any food here – the focus is on having a cheap pint and a good time relaxing or watching sports.

The Sandringham, Hull

Another cheap option would be in Hull – where the average cost of a pint is just £3.68.

The Sandringham on Paragon Street offers a pint of Carling for just £3.10, serving beers cheaper than Wetherspoons.

The pub was opened in 2024 by ex-lorry driver Lee Cunningham, who has made it his mission to pull cheap pints for the people.

Best with beer gardens

The Old Mill, Perthshire

Sitting outside and sipping on a well-poured pint is a pretty unbeatable feeling.

And luckily across the UK we’ve got some pretty spots to sit outdoors, no matter the weather.

Christopher Hill, an Administration Manager from Tummel Valley Holiday Park in Perthshire has a few great picks in Pitlochry.

“My favourites are The Old Mill Inn, Victoria’s and The Auld Smiddy Inn” he says.

“The Old Mill has a great setting, with a watermill outside and a nice beer garden“.

The Woolpack Inn, Romney Marsh

Over in Suffolk, Sun reader Nora Hinds recommends visiting The Woolpack Inn in Romney Marsh.

“Their food is good but they have a wonderful garden. If it’s a nice day we tend to go there on our way down and stop for lunch” she says.

“I’ve had their fish pie that is really good. The grilled salmon fillet is also delicious” (costing £16.95).

Church House Inn, Devon

Plus, Sun travel reporter (and Devon local) Cyann Fielding recommends the beer garden at the Church House Inn in Devon.

“The Inn has a wide variety of beverages and also hosts regular events and themed nights” she says.

“The village green is also located just across the road for a nice stroll”.

Tickled Trout, Wye

Meanwhile, the Tickled Trout in the village of Wye in Ashford has outdoor seating overlooking a pretty river.

It’s a quaint 400 year-old pub with a cosy wooden-beamed interior, and it serves up some great seafood.

Visit in the summer for some amazing live music too.

Best traditional pubs

The Treguth Inn, Cornwall

Putting your finger on what makes a “good” pub is often down to its traditional atmosphere.

Sun reader Anne Walton from Newport in Wales, suggests visiting The Treguth Inn – a coastal spot in Holywell Bay, Cornwall.

“It’s a very local, old thatched pub with a great atmosphere” she said.

“It’s very cosy, dog-friendly and they do nice food. We used to go to their Wednesday Quiz Nights.”

The Cinque Ports Arms, Rye

Over in Rye, East Sussex, Sun reader Nora Hinds recommends The Cinque Ports Arms.

The traditional pub is close to the harbour, and is a great spot for all with its tasty local ales, family-friendly atmosphere and sports games showing on the TV.

Visitors can tuck into a delicious cod and chips for just £14.50, or a warming pie of the day for £11.95.

“It’s always been a friendly pub,” Nora says.

The Axe and Cleaver, Lincolnshire

Over in North Somercotes, Lincolnshire, Joanne Green recommends The Axe and Cleaver.

The pub is close to Parkdean’s Sunnydale holiday park, where Joanne is General Manager.

It has well-priced food, and even offers a “pie and pint night” on Thursdays where you can grab the meal and a drink for just £12.95.

The Railway Inn, Brynowen

Over in Brynowen in Wales, reader Ian Peabody from Newark suggests visiting The Railway Inn.

“It’s very welcoming and feels like a local pub” he said.

And if you’re staying at the nearby Parkdean Resorts Brynowen, it’s just a 10-minute walk.

“There’s also the Victoria Inn, which is popular with a lot of people going there to eat. It’s dog friendly and backs onto Borth Beach“.

“IF you go above 50mph, a monkey will jump out and give you a speeding ticket.”

I have been warned, but it certainly feels like I’m going that fast as I whizz through the jungle on a zipline.

Thankfully the monkeys keep to themselves, although you’ll often see them popping out from the trees while in St Kitts.

The Caribbean island is definitely one for the adventure-seekers. At least that’s what I’m told as I zoom down The Boss zipline, speeding through the tree canopies around me.

My grin is ear to ear as I throw my hands out, flying along like a bird. When I come back to earth with a massive spring cushioning my fast fall, I’m sad it’s over — but there’s so much more to come.

Next up is hiking the live volcano Mount Liamuiga. It’s not for the faint-hearted, as the six-hour trek is up 2,000ft, with the majority of it scrabbling up rocks and tree roots.

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Even as someone relatively fit, it was a battle of my will to get all the way up.

Thankfully, the view was worth it as I overlooked the grassy crater while perched on the edge of a rock. Even the hazy clouds covering the top couldn’t stop me feeling proud of the achievement.

But those clouds soon turned into some of the heaviest rain our guide said he’d seen outside of hurricane season.

Those tropical storms that just last an hour? Not this one.

The already treacherous walk down was made all the harder when the steep route was turned into a waterfall.

Soaked in minutes, it’s no surprise I walked (slid) down to the bottom in half the time it took to go up. I was only too grateful for the very deep tissue massage waiting for me at the beautiful Belle Monte Hotel at the end.

But if you are desperate for that knockout island view, there is a much easier way to get it.

At the very south of the island is Cockleshell Beach, home to all of the island’s top watersports. And it’s how I found myself 60ft in the air during my first attempt at parasailing.

The view from up there let me see both St Kitts and its neighbouring island, Nevis, uninterrupted, as my pro captain sped along the waves.
Evening smores

And I spotted his cheeky grin as he dunked us in the water “accidentally” when bringing us back to the boat.

Evening smores

Most of our travel went through the middle of the island, where the Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea meet.

On the Atlantic side is the St Kitts Marriott Resort, which overlooks a sandy beach. The rooms are simple, but large, so more than enough room to spread out.

And the rest of the hotel will keep you occupied, with a huge central pool complete with swim-up bar, volleyball nets and enough sun loungers for everyone.

There’s also tennis courts, ice-cream parlours, shops and the island’s only casino.

Make sure to check the board for activities too — we missed the live bands but managed some evening smores over the outdoor fire pit.

While you can eat at the hotel restaurants, most resorts in St Kitts aren’t all-inclusive.

It’s a good thing, though, with amazing diners dotted throughout the island.

There is Shipwreck, a pirate-like bar on Frigate Bay that serves the best jerk chicken and rice I’ve ever had.

Or head to Rock Lobster for a beautifully rich lobster thermidor.

Or for something fancier there is Carambola, with a huge fresh sushi bar as well as delicious surf and turf.

But I barely scratched the surface when it comes to island thrills.

There’s snorkelling and catamarans, beach horse-riding, jet skis and even retro train rides.

“It’s an island where you can do something different every day,” my boat captain tells me during an impromptu sailing lesson.

After a week of ziplining, hiking and paragliding, it might just be the first holiday I came home fitter from than when I left.

AFTER a long flight, the first thing you may want to do is take a nice hot shower to freshen up – but experts have warned against it.

Planes can be germy, with their enclosed spaces and recycled air conditioning.

Sitting in one spot for hours can leave you feeling pretty grimy once you land – and many look forward to jumping straight into the shower.

But experts have warned that taking a hot shower directly after a flight could be a bad idea.

This is because your skin becomes very dry onboard an aircraft, and having a hot shower can make matters even worse.

Dermatologist Cristina Psomadakis told CN Traveller exactly how planes dry out our skin.

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“Humidity levels really drop in planes and recirculated air can contribute to overall dryness of our skin”.

In fact, the humidity levels onboard can drop extremely low.

Airplane cabins often have a humidity of around 20 per ent compared to the 40-60 per cent we are used to on the ground.

This is because outside air at 30,000 feet contains almost no moisture.

Therefore when it’s pulled into the cabin and pressurised, it stays dry.

The air is then recirculated within the cabin – without any extra moisture being added back in.

This can lead to your skin feeling more dry than usual.

If you then jump straight into a hot shower, this can dry your skin out even more.

Not only do hot showers post-flight dry out your skin, they can also come with a host of other problems.

One of which is that they can increase your chance of getting acne, explains aesthetician Rhea Souhleris Grous to Apartment Therapy.

They said: “Because dryness triggers the sebaceous glands to produce more sebum, hot water can worsen preexisting acne or cause a breakout”.

Hot water can break down natural oils and kill your skin’s good bacteria, which “play a major role in keeping moisture in – and the bad stuff out”.

To help beat the feeling of “airplane skin“, you can treat it onboard instead of relying on your post-flight shower.

To retain your skin’s moisture levels, experts recommend treating your skin both onboard and also ahead of time.

“To best take care of your skin on a plane, follow a hydrating skincare routine before and during the flight” said celebrity skincare expert Sarah Akram to Vogue.

“Avoid touching your face frequently, and reapply moisturiser and face mist periodically”.

“Also, avoid heavy makeup as it can contribute to dryness and clog pores.”

Your skincare routine could include packing a small bottle of nourishing moisturiser, a moisturising sheet mask, and drinking plenty of water onboard.

And if you like a salty snack from the trolley when flying, it’s even more important to keep hydrated.

“Top this off with reduced water intake and salty foods and it can lead to really dehydrated, parched skin” said dermatologist Cristina.

So next time you’re travelling by air, make sure to drink plenty of water before, during and after your flight.

The recommended amount of water for adults is two litres per day – but it is a good idea to increase your intake on days you’ll be flying.

Qantas customer service manager Travys Carinci flies on average 59,952 miles per month – and swears by drinking plenty of water.

“I start my day with a pint of water before my coffee and try to drink 2.5 litres of water every day” he told CN Traveller.

So if you are set on having a shower after your flight, turn the temperature down to lukewarm or cold – and you won’t strip as much moisture from your skin.

IF you are itching to book a holiday next year but want to try somewhere new, you’re in luck.

All of the airlines in the UK have expanded their list of destinations with lots of new places to fly to in 2026.

From little-known paradise islands to fairytale Europe city breaks, here’s a round-up of the best new routes launching in 2026.

Short and mid-haul

easyJet – Rome, Ljubljana, Reus, Thessaloniki

easyJet has introduced four new routes for next summer, to destinations in Spain, Greece, Italy and Slovenia.

The major airline flies from 22 airports in the UK to a whopping 130+ destinations.

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Holidaymakers will be able to fly from Birmingham to Rome Fiumicino to explore one of the world’s most popular capital cities.

Flights start from March 5, 2026, and run four times a week.

The new route from Edinburgh to Ljubljana in Slovenia will be Scotland’s only direct connection to the country.

Ljubljana is a fairytale-like city with castle views and pretty cafe-lined riverbanks.

Flights will start on the Easter weekend of April 4 and operate twice a week.

Travellers from Bristol will be able to fly to Reus, Spain and Thessaloniki, Greece.

Reus is an overlooked Spanish city with modern buildings and golden sand beaches.

Flights will operate twice a week, beginning June 25.

Thessaloniki is a port city packed with historical ruins, markets and a busy nightlife scene.

The airline has also introduced 11 new routes from Newcastle Airport.

easyJet will now fly to destinations such as Nice, Corfu and Rhodes from its Northern base.

Jet2 – La Palma, Samos and Sicily

The airline flies from 13 airports across the UK to over 75 destinations.

And Jet2 are adding three new destinations for 2026: La Palma, Samos and Sicily.

La Palma is one of Spain’s Canary Islands off the northwest coast of Africa, known for their luscious landscapes and year-round warmth.

It’s a lesser-known island which is visited less frequently than its neighbours Tenerife and Lanzarote.

Passengers can fly to the island from London Stansted or Manchester airport from April 2026, with twice weekly flights taking off on Mondays and Fridays.

Samos on the other hand is a dreamy Greek island, with the new flights from May 2026.

It’s a laid-back spot with quiet villages and unspoilt beaches, and will be Jet2’s 15th new Greek destination airport.

Flights will run from Manchester and London Stansted twice weekly.

The airline will also be flying to Palermo, Sicily from May 2026.

Sicily’s capital is known for its glittering mosaics, street food culture and pretty Arab architecture.

Flights to Palermo will depart from Manchester and Newcastle, as well as Birmingham.

Long-haul

British Airways – St Louis, US

In April 2026, British Airways will begin flying to St. Louis in Missouri.

The new route will become the only direct flight to the city from the UK.

St. Louis is known for its blues, jazz and baseball culture – providing a real slice of Americana for UK travellers visiting the states.

The launch of the route even coincides with the 100th anniversary of Route 66 – the legendary highway which St. Louis sits on.

The flight will run four times a week throughout the airline’s summer season.

Virgin Atlantic – Phuket and Seoul

Virgin Atlantic is expanding their destinations with new routes to Phuket in Thailand and Seoul in South Korea.

Phuket is Thailand’s biggest island, known for its beautiful white sand beaches with turquoise waters.

It’s also popular with young travellers and backpackers, with plenty of beach parties, temples and jungles to explore.

Flights to Phuket will operate three times a week seasonally from London Heathrow – and will begin running from October 2026.

In contrast, Seoul is an ultra-modern city known for its neon nightlife and futuristic skyscrapers.

Plus, fans of shows like KPop Demon Hunters will be pleased.

Seoul is paradise for fans of K-Pop and K-Dramas – home to megastar bands like BTS and Blackpink.

Daily direct flights will launch on March 29, 2026.

DUNCAN James has revealed how Blue has managed to avoid the boyband curse and not hate each other’s guts ahead of their new album.

The four-piece formed in 2000 and have a wealth of hits to their name including All Rise, One Love and Sorry Seems to Be the Hardest Word.

To mark their 25th anniversary, Blue – which also consists of Lee Ryan, Simon Webbe, Antony Costa – are releasing a new album in January, and are stronger than ever.

Speaking to The Sun, Duncan, 48, said: “We’re very busy with the new album Reflections coming out.

“Then a big world tour for our 25th anniversary. I just can’t believe we have got to 25 years and we’ve never lost a member.

“We’ve stayed together for 25 years and we’re still there.”

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He’s right – it’s a rare feat in boyband terms to not only have all original members in the band, but for there to still be a lot of love and respect for one another.

Original British boyband Take That famously lost Robbie Williams to a solo career in the mid-90s, and currently perform as a trio after Jason Orange decided to hang up his mic in 2014.

One Direction lost Zayn Malik partway through their world-dominating success, while Westlife lost Brian McFadden after five years and Five fell apart in spectacular fashion at the peak of their fame, before all of them finally reunited for their successful 2025 arena tour.

Meanwhile Boyzone has grabbed headlines in recent years after documenting the tensions behind-the-scenes and announcing a surprise farewell gig with all four remaining members agreeing to take part.

Despite Blue going on hiatus from 2005 to 2011, they reformed as a four-piece to represent the UK at the Eurovision Song Contest, and have remained together ever since.

Revealing the key to their success in avoiding the boyband curse, Duncan said: “I’ve had these ups and downs and different things, we’ve all had a lot of ups and downs but we’re still together.

“For me, I think it’s because we have a lot of loyalty to one another. And I think boys as well, we never really argue.

“We don’t have these bitchy squabbles about clothing or who is going to have what.

“But I think honestly, it’s probably down to the fact that I’m an only child, so I never had any brothers and sisters.

“So when I got into Blue and at the height of it all it was just crazy, we were all over the place around the world, doing songs with Elton John and all that, and I think you just become really close like brothers.”

They’re brothers that I never thought I’d ever have, and we’re family. We always say that to each other, we’re family. And I think that’s the key.

Duncan James

Duncan, who came out as gay in 2014, continued: “They were there for me through everything that I’ve been through in my life, they are literally my brothers.

“They’re brothers that I never thought I’d ever have, and we’re family. We always say that to each other, we’re family. And I think that’s the key.

“There’s been a lot of stuff that’s gone on and we’ve always stood by each other and supported each other, and that’s what families do, don’t they?”

Because of this, the lads still all share a dressing room when they go on tour, but there is one thing they refuse to do.

Duncan, who spoke to us while attending the Children with Cancer gala, said: “The only thing we don’t do is sit next to each other on an aeroplane.

“We all like a window seat and so we all want that seat, and if you don’t get a window, it’s like ‘Oh for God’s sake!’, that’s when you could have an argument!”

New album Reflections, released on January 9, and lead single One Last Time, shows a more grown-up side to the band, who are fans of bands including The Killers and Kings of Leon.

Duncan previously told The Sun: “I think all of us collectively have always loved that rock sound.

“But when you’re put into a boy band, you’re given a kind of direction to go down.”

OLIVIA ATTWOOD has branded her personal life was ‘garbage’ after spending Christmas Day alone.

The TV presenter, 34, made the admission on the Sunday Roast podcast with close pal Pete Wicks, as the pair discussed their personal lives during the Christmas special.

The former Love Island star revealed that she wants to “really get my s*** together in 2026” as she and Pete read out new years resolutions sent in by fans.

“I want to really get my s*** together in 2026”, she said on the podcast.

Olivia continued: “I feel like I had a good work year. I think my personal life was garbage, so I’d like to have more of a balance in 2026.”

Pete, 37, responded by telling pal Olivia that he would aim to settle down in the next 12 months, but his claim was swiftly dismissed by Olivia.

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Knowing Pete for over eight years, she branded him “

Pete, 37, responded by saying that maybe he would aim to settle down in the next 12 months, but Olivia refused to believe him. 

After knowing Pete for over eight years, Olivia branded him “attention-seeking”.

And she suggested that the said the TV star is more likely to settle down when he’s 45.

The pair first met back in 2017 after appearing on ITV2 reality show The Only Way Is Essex.

They quickly became pals and have remained close ever since, and this year that friendship became a working relationship as the pair managed to bag their own The Sunday Roast podcast on KISS FM.

Olivia spoke candidly about her festive period – and told how she’ll be enjoying December 25 with her dogs instead.

It has been a tough few weeks for Olivia, who recently broke down in tears as she bid farewell to the Cheshire mansion she shared with Gillingham footballer Bradley Dack, 31.

The couple, who tied the knot two years ago, moved into the stunning pad in 2021, with the star hailing it her “dream home”.

But the pair are relocating back to London – nearer to Brad’s Kent club – for their next “chapter” amid a difficult time for the couple.

After admitting Brad will be playing football or training “most of the time” she said: “I’m in London for Christmas.

“I’m staying in London but going to a hotel, we did the family already, we’re done… We can’t go skiing because of the football.’

She told Towie star Pete on their show: “I decided to do a hotel which is just 10 minutes from my house, I feel I physically, mentally needed a break from where we’re currently living, because we’ve got s**t everywhere, boxes, suitcases.

“I just need to not be there.”

It came after she previously uploaded a video to social media where she wrote over the clip: “Saying goodbye to the house I will never call home again.”

The video finished with a heartbroken Olivia seen waving goodbye to her home.

Writing over the last bit of the clip, she said: “Next chapter pending.”

EVER wondered the tips and tricks that cabin crew have picked up along the way as they travel the world for a living?

After all, no one knows the ins and outs of travelling smart better than cabin crew.

From reusable fashion choices to tiny gadgets that make life on the go easier, these are the 12 essentials that cabin crew always pack.

And the best part? Some of these essentials are under £1.

Shampoo bar

Here’s a handy tip to max out your liquid items allowance.

If you’re travelling with hand luggage only, swapping out liquids for solids can make all the difference.

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Experts told Bristol Live it’s worth switching to “solid products like shampoo bars, toothpaste tablets, and deodorant sticks to maximise your liquid allowance.”

Not only do they save space and hassle at airport security, but they also last longer and are spill-proof — perfect for stress-free packing.

It’s also ideal for longer trips, since one bar can last for dozens of washes.

This shampoo bar from Foamie is only 50p.

Packing cubes

Take a look inside any crew member’s luggage and you’ll almost always find this one item: packing cubes.

Packing cubes can save you a ton of extra space in your suitcase.

And if you opt for compression packing cubes, some can save you up to 60% more room!

These lightweight organisers also keep your belongings neatly separated, so you can find what you need without tearing through your suitcase.

Many frequent flyers swear by them for maximising space and keeping outfits wrinkle-free.

They’re also a lifesaver if your bag gets opened at security; everything stays tidy and contained.

Once you’ve tried them, you’ll never go back to chaotic suitcase stuffing.

This set from Primark is particularly stylish, and at only £8 you’re paying £1 per cube.

Compression socks and sleeves

Carin Ryan, with 10 years as cabin crew and six million air miles under her belt, revealed that compression sleeves are the “biggest game changer” when flying.

“Think about the extra walking, unfamiliar sleeping accommodations, and cramped airplane seats all working together to make for miserable body aches and pains on your trip” she said in Travel and Leisure.

“Circulation is your best friend in helping alleviate everything that ails you”.

Compression sleeves improve your circulation by supporting the blood flow in your body.

“Compression sleeves are great as a preventative measure or to put on after a long day exploring.”

These funky compression socks from Koala Socks look just like regular socks, and are only £8.99.

Portable kettle

Have you ever heard of a portable kettle? Well, now you have!

Flight attendant Krystal (@krystal_lilian) shared the item as one of her must-haves in a TikTok post.

“Trip is cancelled without these” she writes.

A portable kettle might sound like a niche gadget, but once you’ve travelled with one, you’ll never look back.

They’re perfect for tea or coffee lovers, guaranteeing you can have a proper cuppa wherever you are.

Hotel kettles can be questionable at best, with some travellers even using them to wash their underwear.

They’re often compact and lightweight, as many models fold down to save space in your luggage and boil just enough water for one or two cups.

It’s also a great option for campers, road trippers, or anyone who likes the comfort of a hot drink before bed.

This collapsible option from Amazon is just £7.98.

Sewing kit

It might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you’re packing, but a small sewing kit can be a real life saver.

easyJet cabin manager Dave Morris always makes sure to bring one.

“I always pack a travel sewing kit — you never know when a needle and thread will save the day,” he told Condé Nast Traveller.

“Safety pins are incredibly useful too. They can replace a broken zip pull, add extra security to a bag, or even help rethread the drawstring on a hoodie.”

Whether it’s a popped button before dinner or a torn hem in your favourite dress, bringing a sewing kit can spare you the stress of a wardrobe malfunction abroad.

Look for a compact version with needles, thread, scissors and pins – it takes up barely any space, but can fix just about anything in a pinch.

This one from Waitrose is only £4 and is a handy addition to your packing list.

Portable cutlery

Flight attendant Amy Cooper (@amycooperxoxo) listed a reusable knife and fork as part of her “crew essentials” in a post on TikTok.

Reusable travel cutlery might not sound like an essential, but it’s one of those items you’ll be thankful for time and again.

Whether you’re grabbing a supermarket salad during a layover, or picnicking on the beach – portable cutlery saves many a situation.

Most sets come neatly packed in a small case, so they won’t make a mess in your bag.

Plus they’re easy to rinse and reuse throughout your trip.

This £1.49 set from Wilko is the perfect size.

Multi-purpose scarf

Finnair cabin crew member Elina Poutanen suggests keeping it simple when packing to save yourself from overpacking.

Especially as many people now travel with cabin luggage only, it’s important to make sure that you choose the clothes you pack carefully.

“Clothes with multiple purposes are the best because you can wear them many times and for many occasions” she says.

Elina recommends “A big scarf that can be worn as a beach cover-up during the day and in the evening when it gets chilly”.

This £3.99 option from Amazon wouldn’t look amiss as a beach skirt or stylish scarf.

Travel extension lead

A travel extension lead is one of those unglamorous but genius essentials that makes travels so much easier.

Cabin crew member Heather (@onlyheather) shared this to be one her essentials with followers on TikTok.

With hotel rooms often short on plug sockets (or worse tucked behind furniture) having your own mini extension lead is a life-saver.

Being able to charge all your devices in one spot is a luxury you’ll thank yourself for later.

Many travel-friendly versions come with multiple USB ports and universal adapters, so you can power your phone, laptop, and camera all at once.

It’s especially handy for long-haul travellers juggling several gadgets or sharing a room with others.

At £3.99 from Argos, this small addition to your packing list will save you a lot of hassle.

Neck pillow

Though it seems like an obvious choice, far too many people still travel without a neck pillow.

“Neck pillows are great for long flights or any flights where you’re stuck in a middle seat” says ex-flight attendant Arina Bloom in Business Insider.

“Once you use one, you’ll never go back. It’s so much more comfortable to fall asleep — plus it saves you from accidentally waking up on your neighbor’s shoulder”.

Just make sure to buy one ahead of time to avoid expensive airport options.

This one from Flying Tiger is made of memory foam and has its own clip to attach to your luggage – and it’s only a tenner.

Mini lint roller

Virgin Atlantic crew member Sophie Firth (@sophie.firth) shared a peek inside her cabin crew topper bag with her followers on TikTok.

Sophie packs a mini lint roller, to make sure her uniform is looking spic and span at all times.

There’s nothing worse than having dust and hairs cling to your clothing, especially when needing to remain polished and presentable as possible.

A mini travel-size lint roller can be purchased for £2.89 on Amazon.

Sophie also packs a mini travel hot water bottle as she explains she is “always cold, especially in crew rest”.

Electrolytes sachet

easyJet cabin crew member Sasha Anthony (@sailwithsasha) swears by electrolyte sachets when flying.

Airplane cabins are notoriously dehydrating and the low humidity levels can leave you feeling tired, sluggish, and jet-lagged after you land.

Mixing an electrolyte sachet into your water mid-flight helps to replenish essential minerals, and keep you hydrated through the dry air and caffeine.

It’s a simple trick that keeps your energy up and your skin feeling fresher when you land.

Pop a few sachets in your bag and you’ll arrive feeling far more human – especially after a long-haul flight.

These sachets from ViDrate are 8 for £5, plenty to get you through multiple flights.

Perfume decanter

Ever wished you could bring your favourite perfume away with you, but you simply have no space for it in your luggage?

A perfume decanter is the ultimate hack for bringing your favourite scent, without lugging around a heavy bottle.

Flight attendant Nicola Findlay (@nicolafindlay_) even shared it in her “must have items” on TikTok.

“We still want to smell sweet without bringing the whole bottle” she says.

These pocket-sized bottles let you transfer a small amount of perfume into a sleek, travel-friendly container that fits easily in your hand luggage.

They help you stay within the 100ml liquid limit whilst still smelling your best.

They’re also perfect to pop in your handbag for refreshing after a long flight or before dinner.

This option from Temu is only 93p, and is easy to attach to your perfume bottle to fill up.

BELIEVE it or not, some of Britain’s beaches are best enjoyed in the winter.

Beautiful coastal paths make for the best crisp winter walks – and the waters might not be as cold as you’d think.

Plus, with less tourists at this time of year, you’ll often have these beaches to yourself!

Whether you’re the type to brave an ocean dip, or are looking for a new stretch of sand to walk the dogs – here’s our top 5 beaches to visit this winter.

Camber Sands, East Sussex

Best for: Wide golden sands, sea swims

This five-mile stretch of sand has continuously been named one of the best beaches to visit in winter.

The East Sussex beach is known for its hilly dunes which overlook miles of soft golden sands.

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And with its mild temperatures, it makes for one of the best beaches to take a winter sea dip.

Camber Sands averages temperatures of 9.5°C in winter, and its waters can even reach highs of 11.5°C.

Beaches in the South East of England tend to have the highest amount of sunlight hours.

And Clacton is no exception – seeing two to three times the typical daily amount of winter sunshine hours in the UK.

The iconic beach is even popular in films and amongst celebs.

Camber Sands famously stars in the 1958 film Dunkirk, and even featured as the Sahara Desert in 1967 in a Carry On film.

Plus, celebs such as Lisa Faulkner, as well as Tom and Giovanna Fletcher have been spotted here.

Camber Sands is just two hours’ drive from London, making for a great day trip from the UK capital.

Brancaster, Norfolk

Best for: Wildlife, quiet coastal walks

Brancaster in Norfolk is a fantastic place to spend a winter’s day.

Brancaster Estate is a National Trust destination, home to a meadow come-Roman fort and a picturesque harbour.

Down the road in Brancaster Staithe you’ll find the Mussel Pod – a food truck serving up fresh local mussels.

And if you keep walking along the shore, you’ll make your way along the Norfolk Coast Path through towns and villages like Thornham, Holkham and Burnham-Overy-Staithe.

Plus, the North Norfolk coast is the excellent for wildlife spotting.

Nearby Titchwell Marsh is popular with twitchers, and spotting common seals is a regular occurrence.

Seal trips by boat can even be taken at nearby Hunstanton or Cley.

With Norfolk’s clear and starry skies, the Northern lights can even be seen over the beach.

And temperatures here aren’t too bad either – averaging about
9°C throughout the winter.

Kynance Cove, Cornwall

Best for: Dramatic scenery, warmest temperatures

Kynance Cove tops the list as the warmest beach in the UK in research undertaken by Parkdean Resorts – and it’s also one of the most beautiful.

Winter temperatures average at around 11°C, and water temperatures can even reach 13°C.

It even made last year’s list of the 50 Best Beaches in the world, chosen by 1,000+ travel influencers and experts.

It sits on Cornwall‘s Lizard Peninsula, one of the most rugged and dramatic-looking coastlines in the UK.

In the height of summer under the blazing sun, this beach looks almost tropical.

But in the winter, it transforms into a peaceful coastal escape – perfect for breezy clifftop walks, and soaking up sea views without the summer crowds.

When the tide is low, you can wander between sea caves and rocky islands.

And when the tide turns high, you can watch over the bay as it transforms into a swirl of wild foaming waves.

And after a windswept walk, nothing beats warming up with a hot drink at the Kynance Cove Cafe – perched above the bay with unbelievable views.

Clacton-on-Sea, Essex

Best for: Traditional seaside town, family days out

Essex‘s Clacton-on-Sea is a popular seaside resort that makes the perfect family trip this winter.

The Victorian pier, promenade and painted beach huts give this beach a traditionally British feel.

Clacton-on-Sea has winter sunlight hours above the national annual average, so you can make the most of a long day at the beach.

Plus in December, the pier hosts seasonal events that are perfect for kids, such as a magical Santa’s Grotto experience.

You’ll also find bowling and a family-friendly restaurant inside the Pavilion.

Plus there’s no better feeling than heading for a winter walk along the shores, before popping into a cosy seafront cafe for a warming hot chocolate.

And it’s good news for swimmers – the sea here is often noted as the fastest to warm up in the Spring.

It’s even recorded the highest temperature waters of any beach in England and Wales, at a toasty 18.2°C.

Barafundle Bay, Pembrokeshire, Wales

Best for: Crystal waters and softest sands

Nestled in the Pembrokeshire coastline, Barafundle Bay is a Welsh jewel that is well worth the walk to get to.

This bay was once awarded the Best Beach in Britain – and it’s easy to see why.

The isolated location has a rugged shoreline, soft, flat sands and some of the UK’s best sunsets.

With cliffs shielding the bay from cold winds, winter temperatures here can reach a comfortable 11°C.

It sits within the National Trust’s Stackpole Estate – an area rich in history with stone landmarks dating back to the Bronze Age.

Note that the nearest car park in Stackpole is half a mile’s walk away – but the views are absolutely worth it.

2026 is shaping up to be a massive year for music fans, with huge names set to drop new albums and singles.

From Lana Del Rey adding a country twist to her latest tracks, to The Rolling Stones promising fresh rock anthems, there’s something for every taste.

Rising stars like Raye and Leigh-Anne will be making waves, while veterans including Paul McCartney, Van Morrison and Bruce Springsteen show no signs of hanging up the microphone.

With this and so much more on the way, here are our top picks for an exciting year ahead.

LANA DEL RAY 

FOLLOWING the likes of Beyonce and Post Malone, Del Rey is set to saddle up and add country nuances to her tenth studio album.  

Previously announced as Lasso and The Right Person Will Stay, expect Stove sooner rather than later in the new year.  

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Singles Henry, Come On and Bluebird demonstrated her shift to Americana stylings. 

THE ROLLING STONES 

MICK JAGGER, Keith Richards and Ronnie Wood may be hanging up their touring boots, but it still promises to be a momentous year for rock’s great survivors.  

There was a huge 18-year gap between Hackney Diamonds (2023) and the Stones’ previous album of original songs, A Bigger Bang.  

But in late April, we can expect a new one, again produced by US live wire Andrew Watt. 

RAYE 

WE can expect the much-anticipated follow-up to Raye’s all-conquering, soul-bearing, Brits-winning My 21st Century Blues.

The R&B singer debuted two unreleased songs at this summer’s Glastonbury with one, Where Is My Husband!, becoming the lead single from the as-yet-unnamed album.

Her official site promises an early 2026 release date. 

FOO FIGHTERS 

A NEW album from Dave Grohl and Co is on the cards in 2026, their second since the sad passing of Taylor Hawkins.

With another new drummer, ex-Nine Inch Nails Ilan Rubin, announced in the summer, the first recorded music with him appeared in the shape of single Asking For A Friend.

Two massive UK shows at Liverpool’s Anfield Stadium are set for June. 

ROBBIE WILLIAMS 

INSPIRED by the mid-Nineties period after Robbie left Take That, Britpop is his 13th studio album. 

It begins with the, er, rocket-fuelled Rocket, which is graced with suitably heavy riffing from Black Sabbath’s Tony Iommi. 

Bearing in mind the recent exploits of Oasis, Blur, Pulp and Suede, why not this celebration by one of the era’s favourite singers?  

Out on February 6. 

CHARLIE XCX 

AFTER the Brat summer of 2024, the singer heads in another direction with her soundtrack album for Wuthering Heights.  

Out on February 13, same day as Emerald Fennell’s film version of Emily Bronte’s novel, it has already yielded singles House, with Velvet Underground legend John Cale, and Chains Of Love.

Charli says: “It couldn’t be more different from Brat.” 

PAUL McCARTNEY 

AS far as his epic music career is concerned, Macca will never “let it be”. 

The Beatles legend confirmed work on the follow-up to 2020’s excellent McCartney III.  

In the foreword to a memoir about his other band, Wings, he wrote: “Right now, I have 25 songs that I’m finishing . . . new songs that are interesting.”  

He’s also mentioned in despatches sessions in LA with Andrew Watt (Stones, Lady Gaga). 

THE FACES 

HERE’S a rock ’n’ roll reunion to savour. 

The band’s three survivors, Rod Stewart, Ronnie Wood and Kenney Jones, have been preparing their first album in more than 50 years. 

At least 11 songs have been recorded, which Jones says are “a mixture of stuff we never released but is worthy of releasing and some wonderful new stuff. Rod is writing the lyrics.” 

COURTNEY BARNETT 

THE Aussie rekindles her love of the electric guitar on her forthcoming fourth album.

After decamping to California, she’s been recording in Rancho De Luna, Joshua Tree, home of the legendary hard-rocking Desert Sessions.

First evidence of her labours is recent single Stay In Your Lane, complete with scuzzy bass lines and wonderfully deadpan vocals. 

VAN MORRISON 

HOT on the heels of his sublime return to form, Remembering Now, comes this love letter to the blues, Somebody Tried To Sell Me A Bridge.

Out on January 23, the 20-track album proves Van is still “The Man” at 80.

It includes Fats Domino’s Ain’t That A Shame, Blind Blake’s Delia’s Gone and features stellar 

guests – Buddy Guy and Taj Mahal among them. 

DANNY L HARLE 

AFTER stellar production duties with Dua Lipa, Caroline Polachek and Olly Alexander, Harle steps into the limelight with the genre-hopping Cerulean (released February 13).

“This is my debut album. This is the big one,” says the North Londoner.

Singles already released Starlight (ft PinkPantheress) and Azimuth (ft Polachek) offer much promise. 

BJORK 

THE Icelandic icon has given a strong hint of new material in the new year, her first since 2022’s Fossora. 

She’s involved in a huge exhibition in Reykjavik involving immersive audio and visual installations.

A social media post reveals that the third and last of these is “a new work based on music from her forthcoming album, currently in development.” 

LEIGH-ANNE 

THE impressive former Little Mix singer can finally do things her way when 

she releases her 15-track debut album as an independent solo artist. Following the singles Been A Minute, Burning Up and Dead And Gone, she delivers My Ego Told Me To in February.

Rooted in reggae and pop, it explores personal themes of family and empowerment. 

GORILLAZ 

MURDOC, Russel Hobbs, 2D and Noodle – the brainchildren of Damon Albarn and visual artist Jamie Hewlett – release The Mountain on March 20.

The ninth Gorillaz album brings Indian music to the fore but also finds room for guest appearances by Sparks, Gruff Rhys, Idles and Johnny Marr. Drummer Hobbs calls it “a journey of the soul – with beats.” 

BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN 

THIS was a year when The Boss gave us so much.

Another visit to the UK with the E Street Band followed by two significant raids on his archives – Tracks II with its SEVEN unreleased albums and an expanded Nebraska to coincide with the recent biopic.

Yet he told Rolling Stone: “I have a record finished. It’s a solo record  . . .  I imagine it will come out in ’26 some time.”  

MUMFORD & SONS 

THE trio of Marcus Mumford, Ben Lovett and Ted Deane have reunited with Taylor Swift associate, The National’s Aaron Dessner.

He has produced and co-writes Prizefighter.

Set for release on Feb 13, the band’s sixth studio album arrives less than a year after their UK No 1 fifth, Rushmere. Gracie Abrams, Chris Stapleton & Hozier guest. 

LUCINDA WILLIAMS 

BEARER of one of the most passionate voices in American music, Williams returns with World’s Gone Wrong on January 23.

She addresses head-on the divisions in her country while taking specific aim at the sandy-haired White House incumbent.

She duets with the mighty Mavis Staples on a cover of Bob Marley’s So Much Trouble In The World. 

THE DAMNED 

WHEN the punk pioneers’ founder member Brian James died earlier this year, the current line-up recorded a covers album celebrating the Sixties music loved by their fallen comrade.

Not Like Everybody Else is out on January 23.

Singer Dave Vanian turns There’s A Ghost In My House into a hoot and Captain Sensible takes the lead on Pink Floyd’s See Emily Play. 

WE’VE taken a look at how to spend a family day out for FREE across multiple locations in the UK.

We’ve pinpointed three UK counties brimming with free activities for all ages, ensuring everyone stays entertained without spending a single penny.

And with activities covered for all ages, you can be sure there’ll be no getting bored.

Sussex: Beach days, railways and pirate festival

Across Sussex there are plenty of free things to do, meaning that you can take the kids out for an action-packed day of activities without breaking the bank.

If you’re visiting when the sun’s out, head to one of the many beautiful beaches in the county.

Camber Sands is perfect for families with its sprawling stretches of golden sands, perfect for bucket and spade days and paddling in the water.

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It’s a top choice due to its nearby facilities including parking, cafes and loos – perfect for parents of young children.

A sunny day is also the perfect time to go for a family bike ride.

The South Coast East route will take you along the coast, past stunning cliffs and landscapes.

And if the children (or Dad) are into steam trains, there’s multiple ways to enjoy them in Sussex – without booking a pricey ticket.

The Bluebell Railway is a great spot to visit, with its interactive “SteamWorks” exhibition at Sheffield Park station, and its own outdoor playground at Kingscote station.

There is no charge for platform entry on non-service days, and the gifts and models shop often remains open on these days too – just check their website ahead of time.

You can also head to Hotham Park, a short walk from Bognor Regis town centre, where there’s a popular miniature railway.

The park is free to enter if you’re wanting to stroll and have a look around.

But there’s loads to see and do for an optional small fee, such as crazy golf, a boating lake and kids’ adventure play area.

And if you do visit with some change in your pocket, the Hotham Park Railway is only £2.50 for adults and £2 for kids (under 2s go free).

Sun reader Nora Hinds, 69, from Hounslow, recommends Hastings in Sussex for its annual Pirate Festival.

She said: “Hastings is brilliant for live music, with lots of events on the seafront like the pirate festival.

It’s a pirate-themed weekend with free things to do including a treasure hunt, craft workshops and kids pirate tattoos.

Lastly, Sussex is home to some fantastic free museums.

The Shipwreck Museum is free to enter, and is full of fascinating maritime artifacts.

Sue Mercer, 62, from Pagham recommends The Novium Museum in Chichester for families.

It also has free entry, and kids can learn about history covering the Stone Ages to the Saxons.

Lincoln: Horse sanctuary, lakeside picnics and history museums

There’s loads of free and cheap things to do for families in Lincolnshire.

So much so, that there’s a Facebook group with more than 15,000 members sharing free things to do with the kids “in and around Lincoln”.

If you’ve got any mini history buffs in the family, they’ll enjoy a visit to the Museum of Lincolnshire Life.

The museum takes a deep dive into life in the county, from 1750 to the present day.

There’s an authentic WWI tank, interactive exhibitions and group quiz sessions.

Similarly, The Lincoln Museum is another indoor attraction well-worth the visit.

Aside from the fascinating exhibitions, it offers “Play at The Lincoln Museum” – a free activity centre packed with activities for younger children and a play zone for babies.

For older kids, there’s lots of interactive games and trails too.

Alternatively, just 20 minutes from Lincoln you’ll find Bransby Horses.

The charity owns a 600-acre site which is home to over 300 horses, ponies, donkeys and mules.

Visitors can walk through to admire the animals and set up for lunch at the designated picnic area.

There’s also a play park, cafe and gift shop.

Entry is free, although donations are recommended upon visiting to support the charity.

Sun reader Sarah Al-Aidi recommends Hubbard’s Hills – a vast green space near Louth with plenty of trees and a water valley.

“It’s a real beauty spot with great picnic areas, dog walking trails and nature walks” she says.

In the park you’ll find a play area and plenty of scenic picnic spots by the river – and it’s a great place to bring the dog, too.

Devon: Free soft play, giant animal models and discovery trails

Whilst Devon is known for it’s family-friendly beaches, there’s more to it than building sandcastles and wasting away your change at the arcades.

One of the best ways to explore the county is by undertaking one of its many outdoor discovery trails.

Haldon Forest near Exeter has a popular family activity trail which often has new themes depending on the time of year.

It’s a beautiful winding trail which ends at a picnic spot, home to an impressive Gruffalo sculpture.

And for kids of all ages, geo-caching can make for an exciting and energy-burning day out – and can get your kids away from their screens.

Geo-caching in Dartmoor or Exmoor National Parks is a fantastic way to get the kids to explore the outdoors.

Hidden around the parks you’ll find stashes of hidden items known as caches.

They’ll often have quirky items in to trade, as well as a log book to record your win finding the geo-cache.

In fact geo-caching happens all over the UK, and all the rules are on the geo-caching website.

Plus, the Royal William Yard Geo Trail in Plymouth is a fascinating look back in time to 380 million years ago.

And whilst you’re visiting Plymouth, dads can make the most of free soft play.

“On Thursdays, Barnardo’s runs a Dads and Dinkies session, which is free soft play for dads and the children” says Gem Krupa, Holiday Home Sales Manager at Challaborough Bay holiday park.

“Mums can have a rest while Dads take the kids down to the YMCA for a play.”

The free soft play sessions take place every Thursday at 1.30pm. Just make sure to prebook first!

Lastly, on the outskirts of Dartmoor in Bovey Tracey you can’t skip out on The Jolly Roger.

Here you’ll find incredible showrooms displaying giant animal and dinosaur models – and the best part is, it’s free to visit.

There’s also models of race cars, fairies, and at Christmas time the showroom even gets decked out with Santas and sleighs.