Travel Desk

EVER wanted to head to a music festival abroad? Well, how about heading to the world’s biggest where most concerts are free?

Found in the capital of Morocco – Rabat – Mawazine isn’t your usual festival.

Instead of lasting the normal three-days, Mawazine goes on for nine days in total.

The festival takes place each June and its attendance always breaks records with 3.75million people visiting in 2025 – making it the largest music festival in the world by attendance.

As for whats on at the festival, around 90 per cent of the concerts are free to attend.

You can expect Moroccan and Arab artists as well as global headliners.

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There are a seven stages in total including OLM Souissi, which is the main stage where international stars such as Rihanna, Beyoncé, Shakira, Elton John, Stevie Wonder, Justin Timberlake and Maroon 5 have all performed.

You could then go to the Nahda Stage, which is dedicated to Arabic and Oriental music.

And over at Chellah, you’ll find a historic Roman site used for calm with acoustic music.

The festival isn’t just music either – you can expect art exhibitions, workshops and film screenings.

If you want to head to the festival, make sure to book your hotel well ahead.

The city of Rabat is transformed for the nine days as well, with cafes and shops open later.

The city is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site meaning there is plenty to explore including a huge medina, Hassan Tower and Kasbah of the Oudayas – a historic fortress with sea views.

Return flights from the UK to Rabat cost as little as £125 in June.

WITH the average museum or attraction entrance fee costing between £12 and £21 a day in the UK, you might expect annual passes to be budget-obliterating.

Yet there are tourist spots across England that let you pay for a day and return all year for free, which is a great option for families on a budget.

If you were to boomerang back to some of the below attractions once a month, the cost of a visit works out as little as 41p a time. 

So here are all of the best places across the UK – by region – where you can pay once, then visit again and again for the whole year, absolutely free…

North East 

Preston Park, Stockton on Tees

Centred around a 19^th century mansion on the banks of the River Tees, this 100-acre site features history galleries, a replica Victoria street, and gardens with a poison plot and honeybee hives.

Adults £12, children (3-16) £8. 

Magna Science Adventure Centre, Rotherham

Set within a former steelworks, this interactive science museum has four pavilions dedicated to the concepts of earth, air, fire and water. Plus, there’s a splash park for summer.

Adults £19, children (4 to 15) £17 or (2 to 3) £9. 

Beamish, The Living Museum of the North, County Durham

Spreading out across 350 acres, Beamish has revived dozens of 19^th and early 20^th century buildings like post offices, pubs, and sweet shops, and filled them with costumed characters to interact with.

Adults £35, children (5-16) £20.50. 

York Castle Museum, York

Plunge into 400 years of York’s history in the museum’s exhibition rooms, replica Victorian street, and the former cells of York Castle Prison.

Adults £18, children (5-16) £10.80. 

Yorkshire Air Museum, York

The UK’s largest independent aviation museum set on a former WW2 airfield with historic aircraft, displays, a cafe and shop.

Adults £17, children (4-17) £7.

The Deep, Hull

More than 2.5 million litres of water provide shelter to 3,000 fish, sharks, rays, and even penguins at this 24,000 square metre aquarium.

Adults £24, children (3-15) £18. 

North West 

Port Sunlight, Wirral

Built for soap factory workers in the 19^th century, this model village offers a history museum, art gallery, and 130 acres of parkland.

Adults £8, children (5-16) £5.50.

Jodrell Bank, Cheshire

The UK’s largest radio telescope, an immersive planetarium, and a series of hands on exhibitions about space and the universe await visitors to this Unesco World Heritage Site in the Cheshire countryside.

Adults £15, children £10.50. 

Eureka! Science + Discovery, Wirral

Walk through a pair of lungs, design your own toothpaste, and hug a heartbeat tree within four interactive zones themed around the science of bodies, homes, and nature.

Adults and children (3+) £15.95. 

National Football Museum, Manchester

Everything from trophies and football shirts to Subbuteo tables and VR games are on offer at this museum dedicated to the beautiful game.

Adults £16, children (5 to 15) £10. 

Fusiliers Museum, Bury

This museum documents 300 years of The Lancashire Fusiliers and the latter Royal Regiment of Fusiliers, with artefacts like Victoria Cross medals and replica First World War trenches.

Adults £4.95, children £2.95. 

Windermere Jetty Museum, Bowness-on-Windermere

Get to know the 200-year boating heritage of England’s largest lake through vessels, interactive displays, and oral histories.

Adults £12, children (5-15) £6. 

Ryedale Folk Museum, Hutton-le-Hole

A six-acre acre swatch of countryside with 20 heritage buildings such as a 1950s village store, Victorian cottage, and thatched Tudor longhouse.

Adults £12, children (4-15) £10. 

Yorkshire Museum 

Featuring displays on everything from the Vikings and Romans to Yorkshire during the Jurassic period – with iPads that showcase what the dinosaur skeletons on show really looked like when they were alive.

Adults £10, children (5-16) £6.  

Murton Park, Murton

Discover 14 acres of countryside exhibits including a farming museum, railway, farm animals, and a Viking village and Roman fort that are open on weekends and school holidays.

Adults £20, children (1-16) £17. 

East Midlands 

National Tramway Museum, Crich

Set around a recreated period village compete with tea rooms and a sweetshop, this museum displays more than 80 historic trams and features a working rideable tramway.

Adults £24, children (4-15) £15. 

Silverstone Museum, Northamptonshire

The two floors of exhibits at Silverstone Museum are crammed with racing memorabilia, F1 cars, immersive experiences like break tests, and photo ops.

Adults £24 online, children (5-15) £20. 

Lamport Hall, Lamport

Wander through period rooms dripping in antiques before ambling around 10 acres of gardens, which once boasted the first ever garden gnomes.

Adults £16, children (11-17) £9. 

Nottingham Castle, Nottingham

Brush up on your knowledge of Robin Hood, Nottingham lace, and the history of rebellion in Nottinghamshire at the hilltop castle that was first built by William the Conqueror in the 11^th century.

Adults £18, children free. 

Bakewell Old House Museum, Bakewell

11 rooms of exhibits spill the secrets of Bakewell’s oldest standing residence and its inhabitants from the past 500 years.

Adults £7.50, children (5-16).

King Richard III Visitor Centre, Leicester

Immersive exhibits recount how King Richad III’s body was discovered under a carpark in Leicester and backtrack through 500 years of history, feuds, and intrigue linked to the King.

Adults £12.50, children (5-15) £6.25. 

Eyam Museum, Hope Valley

This museum lifts the lid on how the residents of sleepy Eyam responded to the outbreak of Bubonic Plague in the 17^th century. Additional displays on local prehistory, mining, and the silk and shoe industry.

Adults £6, children (5+) £4. 

National Space Centre, Leicester

Amongst the 150 plus exhibits at this final frontier-themed museum, visitors will find two genuine rockets, real moon rock, and the UK’s largest domed planetarium.

Adults £22, children (5-15) £20. 

1620s House & Garden at Donington le Heath, Coalville

Explore the stone-walled home and gardens that once belonged to the relatives of Sir Everard Digby, who was executed for taking part in the Gunpowder Plot.

Adults £6.65, children (3-15) £3.95. 

Bosworth Battlefield Heritage Centre, Sutton Cheney

Nine interactive exhibition rooms walk visitors through the dramatic War of the Roses and the resulting battle that changed the course of British history.

Adults £10, children (3-15) £6.95.

Peak District Lead Mining Museum, Matlock Bath

Hundreds of rocks, minerals, tools, and three interactive mock mine tunnels evoke a time when lead mining was one of the Peak District’s most important industries.

Adults £8.50, children (4-17) £5. 

National Justice Museum, Nottingham

Five floors of exhibits on crime, the law, and punishment, including a Victorian courtroom and Georgian jail. Daily mock trials and free workshops.

Adults £16, children (5-15) £11.50. 

Wollaton Hall, Wollaton

Cocooned within 500 acres of parkland, this Grade I listed Elizabethan mansion is home to a 750,000 item Natural History Museum.

Adults £18, children free. 

Louth Museum, Louth

Learn about brickmaking, carpets, archaeology, the devastating Louth flood of 1920, and the ghost of the green lady at this four gallery town centre museum. Open April to October.

Adults £5, children free. 

City of Caves, Nottingham

Burrow through the caves beneath Nottingham, learning about the people who worked and even lived in them over the years as you go.

Adults £12, children (5-15) £9.50. 

West Midlands 

The Fusilier Museum, Warwick

Artefacts like drums, bearskin hats, uniforms, memorial plaques and even wedding gifts illustrate the personal stories of the soldiers of the Royal Warwickshire Regiment.

Adults £5, children (under 16) free. 

Coventry Transport Museum, Coventry

Cast your eyes over more than 300 cycles, 120 motorcycles, and 250 cars, including penny farthings, Triumphs, E-type Jaguars, and the world land speed record-breaking Thrust SSC.

Adults £15.50, children (5-16) £8.50.

Museum of Royal Worcester, Worcester

Starring the largest display of Worcester porcelain in the world, with a sensory trail and regularly updated temporary exhibitions.

Adults £11.95, children (5-17) £4.50.

British Motor Museum, Gaydon

More than 400 classic cars welcome visitors to the British Motor Museum. Free guided tours take place twice a day and there’s an outdoor play area for sunny days.

Adults £18, children (5-16) £9, when booked in advance. 

East of England 

Museum of the Broads, Stalham

This dog-friendly museum spotlights the natural and human history of the Norfolk and Suffolk Broads through more than 6,000 artefacts.

Adults £9.50, children (12-17) £5.50. 

Ely Musuem, Ely

Root around in Ely’s history through exhibits on the city’s prehistoric settlers, folk traditions, local trades, the importance of eel fishing in the area and plenty more.

Adults £7, children (5 and up) £3. 

Denny Abbey & The Farmland Museum, Waterbeach

This yawning site brings together a 12^th century abbey, a vintage village shop, rural trade exhibitions, a nun’s refectory, farming equipment displays, a 1940s farmworker’s cottage, and a clutch of gardens and play areas.

Adults £9.50, children (5-17) £6.50. 

Norfolk and Suffolk Aviation Museum, Flixton

More than 60 aircraft, 30,000 artefacts, and individual museums on Suffolk’s 446^th Bomb Group, RAF Bomber Command, and the Royal Observer Corps come together on this 11 acre site.

Adults £10, children (5-17) £5. 

Verulamium Museum, St Albans

Occupying the site of one of Britian’s largest Roman cities, Verulamium depicts what everyday life was like for the people who once lived here. Count on coin hoards, mosaics, and reconstructions of Roman rooms.

Adults £10, children (under 16) £5.  

Great London and Outer London

London Transport Museum, Covent Garden

Charting 200 years of transportation developments in London, including exhibits on riverboats, omnibuses, the underground, and the capital’s iconic red Routemasters.

Adults £27, under 18s free. 

Foundling Museum, Bloomsbury

Artworks by Tracey Emin and music scores by classical composer Handel are some of the surprising items on display at the UK’s only museum dedicated to the experiences of people who have been in care.

Adults £14.50, 21 and under free. 

The Postal Museum, Clerkenwell

See rare Penny Black stamps, dress up in postal uniforms, and have a ride on the narrow gauge underground Mail Rail railway at this museum that documents 500 years of postal history.

Adults £20.50, children (2-17) £11. 

Old Royal Naval College, Greenwich

The hub of Greenwich’s Unesco World Heritage Site, this former hospital treats visitors to an ornately frescoed Painted Hall, an elegant chapel, and an interactive visitor centre.

Adults £19, children free. 

The Royal Mews at Buckingham Palace

Discover what goes on behind the scenes at the stables responsible for all the road travel arrangements for the Royal Family, including a peek at the Cinderella-esque golden state coach.

Adult £18, young person (18-24) £12, children £9. 

Windsor Castle, Windsor

The largest occupied castle in the world, Windsor Castle welcomes visitors to explore its state apartments, ceremonial rooms, and castle precincts.

Adults £32, young person (18-24) £21, children £16. 

South East 

Milton Keynes Museum, Wolverton

With displays on prehistoric times, Victorian life, farming, printing, and a street of replica shops from yesteryear, this museum looks into the stories that have shaped Milton Keynes.

Adults £17, children (5-16) £12.   

Bletchley Park, Buckinghamshire

The former top-secret workplace of Britain’s World War Two codebreakers features 11 historic buildings, 12 hands-on exhibitions, recreated period rooms, and a cinematic experience.

Adults £28.75, children £7.50. 

Soldiers of Oxfordshire Museum, Woodstock

Exploring how conflict has shaped Oxfordshire, the permanent exhibition at this museum looks into everything from The Liberation of Bergen Belsen by the Oxfordshire Yeomanry to the county’s secret agents.

Adults £9, children (5-16) £5.50.

Wallingford Museum, Wallingford

This two-floor, wood beamed museum tackles almost 3,000 years of local history including Wallingford’s links to Queen of Crime fiction, Agatha Christie.

Adults £6, children free.  

Milestones Museum, Basingstoke

The replica streetscapes at this film set style museum chart the history of Hampshire from the Victorian era to the swinging sixties.

Adults £18.50, children (5-15) £12.50. 

Roald Dahl Museum and Story Centre, Great Missenden

Based in the village where Roald Dahl lived and worked for almost four decades, this museum celebrates the life of the BFG author through memorabilia, hands-on activities, moving images, and craft offerings.

Adults £13.95, children (5-18) £9.95. 

Aldershot Military Museum, Aldershot

Highlights at this local military history museum include tank collections, a rifle handling area, recreated army barracks, and a World War Two inspired outdoor assault course.

Adults £11, children (5-15) £8. 

Cowper and Newton Museum, House and Gardens, Olney, 

Deep dive into the lives and careers of writers William Cowper and John Newton, co-authors of the hymn Amazing Grace, in the restored 18^th century mansion where Cowper lived.

Adults £12, children (under 16) free. 

Jane Austen’s House, Chawton

This red brick cottage is where Jane Austen lived and wrote her novels. Highlights include Jane’s personal letters and first editions of her stories.

Adults £15.50, young people (17-26) £11, children (6-16) £7.25. 

SeaCity Museum, Southampton

Covering 2,000 square metres, SeaCity unveils Southampton’s links to the ill-fated Titanic and reveals how they city became known as The Gateway to the World.

Adults £5, children (5-16) £3.50. 

Leeds Castle, Kent

A favourite residence of King Edward I and dwelling place of Catherine of Aragon, this turreted castle treats visitors to a ‘1930s castle experience’, children’s playground and maze, 500 acres of parkland, and a bird of prey centre.

Adults £38.50, children £28. 

Huguenot Museum, Rochester

Britian’s only museum about the Huguenots – the French protestants who took sanctuary in Britain after fleeing religious persecution in the early 18^th century.

Adults £5.50, children £4.50. 

Museum of the Iron Age, Hampshire

This two-floor museum offers an insight into the history of the nearby Danebury Hill Fort and the people who lived there more than 2,500 years ago.

Adults £5, children (5-15) £3.50.  

South West

National Maritime Museum, Falmouth

15 galleries spread across five floors explore how the sea has shaped human history and culture with remote-controlled boat pool, play zone and more. 

Adults £19, children (five to 18) £10.

Cornwall Museum and Art Gallery, Truro

Swot up on all the elements that have helped forge Cornwall’s identity, from its ancient civilisations and geology to its myths and biodiversity.

Adults £10, under 18s free. 

Wheal Martyn Clay Works, Carthew

Learn about Cornwall’s 250-year clay mining history and find out how the industry contributed to the formation of landmarks known as The Cornish Alps.

Adults £17, children (5-15) £7.50. 

Newlyn Art Gallery and the Exchange, Penzance

A twin set of contemporary art galleries where the walls are hung with the works of regional, national, and international artists alike. Exhibitions change regularly.

Adults £9, children free.

The Eden Project, Bodelva

30 acres of indoor and outdoor gardens, including two iglu-like biomes filled with rainforest and Mediterranean flowers and plants.

Adults £35.50 online, children (5-15) £12.50.

Torquay Museum, Torquay

More than 400 artefacts on Egyptology – including a mummified body – accompany displays on natural history, archaeology, planetology, world cultures, and ceramics at this eclectic museum.

Adults £10, children (5-17) £5. 

Dorset Museum and Art Gallery, Dorchester

Four floors of displays spill the beans on Dorset’s natural history, 500,000 years of people’s history, Hardy’s Dorset, and the county’s artistic heritage.

Adults (26+) £13.95, young people (16-25) £11.70, children (0-15) free. 

The Tank Museum, Bovington

The world’s largest collection of tanks and armoured vehicles spreads out across six hangar-sized exhibition halls here, showcasing more than 300 artefacts from 26 nations.

Adults £19.60, children (3-15) £4.80. 

The Etches Collection, Kimmeridge

This modern space is filled with Late Jurassic marine fossils with a ‘sea-rex’ skull, a sea dragon skeleton, and CGI imagery that brings all the information to life.

Adults £9.50, children (5-16) £4.75. 

Museum of East Dorset, Wimborne Minster

The 11 galleries inside this Grade II listed house catalogue the social and local history of East Dorset, touching on subjects from childhood to agriculture.

Adults £12.50, children (5-16) £6. 

Lyme Regis Museum, Lyme Regis

Overlooking Dorset’s Jurassic Coast, this museum lays bare Lyme Regis’ geological heritage, history, culture, and literary connections using audio, touchscreen displays, and handleable objects. Adults £9.95, children (6+) £6.95. 

Bridport Museum, Bridport

The displays at Bridport Museum switch from Jurassic Coast fossils to local rope making history, Anglo Saxon history, and the ‘beastly Bridport’ topic of disease and the ‘deadly Bridport dagger’.

Adults £5, under 21s free. 

Somerset Rural Life Museum, Glastonbury

Scattered across the cow shed, farmyard, barn, and orchard of a former abbey farm, the exhibits of this heritage attraction shed light on the working life and rural crafts of countryside Somerset over the ages.

Adults £11, children (5-17) £5.25.   

Haynes Motor Museum, Sparkford

15 exhibition rooms showcase more than 300 vehicles here, whilst displays touch on topics from the birth of the internal combustion engine to sustainable transport.

Adults £22.45, children (4-15) £12.74, when booked online. 

The Food Museum, Stowmarket

17 historic buildings spread across 84 acres highlight how food is grown, made, and eaten. With daily talks and regularly changing exhibitions.

Adults £17.50, children £12. 

Lewes Castle, Lewes

An 850-year-old Norman Castle, where you can climb the keep for views of the South Downs, check out Medieval artefacts in the museum, and picnic in the grounds.

Adults £18, children (5-17) £6.50.  

Anne of Cleves House, Lewes

This timber-framed wonky-roofed building was gifted to Henry VIII’s fourth wife, Anne of Cleves, after their royal marriage ended. Wander through the Tudor style rooms to gen-up on this period of history.

Adults £7.50, children (5-17) £4.50. 

Fishbourne Roman Palace and Gardens, Fishbourne

See the remains of a once lavish Roman villa, complete with mosaics and artefacts, and mooch around the reconstructed period gardens.

Adults £15, children (5-17) £7.50. 

Michelham Priory House & Gardens, Upper Dicker

Get stuck into 800 years of history at this moated building with its period rooms and seven acres of grounds and gardens.

Adults £15, children (5-17) £7.50. 

WHEN most of us check into a hotel, it’s likely to have a restaurant, a spa and a bar – but around the globe are some VERY luxurious ones with suites costing as much as £30k per night.

In a new Channel 4 series, First Dates star Fred Sirieix heads behind the scenes to see what exactly makes these hotels the best of the best.

In the show called Fred‘s Ultimate Hotel, the charming maître d’ explores four hotels; The Royal Mansour in Marrakesh, The Royal Madikwe Lodge in South Africa, Les Barmes de l’Ours in France and Raffles Hotel in Singapore.

All of the hotels are five-star with Michelin-star dining and experiences that make them a step above the rest.

Thanks to his history of working in hospitality, Fred can definitely make a judgement on whether these hotels live up to expectation.

Fred explained: “I’ve been doing this work from the age of 15 in hotels and restaurants – so I speak the lingo.

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“Observing them, being a guest and then behind the scenes and working with the people there because this is all I’ve done all my life – and I wanted to see if these hotels were actually ultimate and why.”

Not only does Fred check-in at the hotels as a guest but he also goes behind the scenes as concierge and even bar staff – so here are the best ones he explored.

The Royal Mansour, Marrakesh

The first stop is at The Royal Mansour in Marrakesh which is owned by King Mohammed VI of Morocco.

It has 53 private riads with gardens, courtyard patio, roof terrace, swimming pools, hammams and each comes with a personal butler.

Fred said: “The most incredible thing is that this hotel was built from scratch and this started from the back of the house.

“They created the most efficient hotel, it’s aerodynamic – it’s like Formula 1 it makes for such fast service.

Fred continued: “I was an easy customer for the butler, by 6 o’clock I told him I was OK. I can call room service or make my own coffee from the machine in my room – but some customers use the butler for 18-hours a day.”

“These are the Premier League of hotels – and the way to be the best is to not say no. You have to deliver – they are working at the highest level.”

The Royal Mansour in Marrakesh ranked 13th globally and Best Hotel in Africa at the World’s 50 Best Hotels Awards last year.

Sounds incredible, right? If you’re looking to stay, you might need to start saving now as the top suite, the Grand Riad, costs over £30,000 per night.

The Royal Madikwe Lodge, South Africa

The next stop on his trip is safe to say one of Fred’s best, and possibly worst emotional experiences, at The Royal Madikwe Lodge in South Africa.

Fred explained: “The Royal Madikwe, out of all the places I have been in the world, I have never felt so emotional throughout.

“From the moment I arrived, I started to cry. It was so emotional – I almost died in the bush, sandwiched between an elephant and two rhinos.”

Luckily bush ranger Ernie came to Fred’s rescue: “He saved my life because of how he dealt with the situation.”

“The staff there were on another level – it was very touching. It was very different as well like when I was in the bush with Ernie because it was a very responsible job.”

The most expensive accommodation at The Royal Madikwe Lodge is The Sovereign House which racks up to £6,000 per night.

It sits by a well-travelled elephant path so guests are likely to see the creatures from the comfort of their room.

It has room for six guests across three spacious bedrooms, with a glass wine cellar, plunge pool and private boma.

Barmes de l’Ours, France

Tucked way in the French ski resort of Val-d’sère is the five-star luxury Les Barmes de l’Ours.

It’s safe to say that Fred, who was born and raised in France, had high hopes and luckily, they delivered.

Fred said: “These people are the embodiment of French hospitality – it’s a dying art that people do not practice anymore.

“From the moment I arrived, I was so impressed. It’s rare in life when you’re really impressed in life and you see excellence in people who want to do a good job.

“One thing about these hotels is that the five-star standard must be everywhere. If you’re walking down a corridor and you cross a member of staff – they must see, smile and say hello before you do that to them.”

The hotel in the mountains has North American-style lodges, alpine chalets and even contemporary lofts.

It’s the only hotel to sit at the foot of Face de Bellevarde – a black run which has a vertical drop of 850metres.

With the hotel guests can fly in via private helicopter and arrange paragliding flights from the slopes, it also has a two-lane bowling alley.

Here, the Bear Suite is the most expensive at over £3,500 per night – it has a private Jacuzzi, sauna, hammam and balcony overlooking the mountains.

When a hotel has former guests like Queen Elizabeth II, Prince William and Princess Kate, and Elizabeth Taylor – you know it’s going to be amazing.

Raffles Hotel, Singapore

Raffles Hotel in Singapore is found on 1 Beach Road, the colonial-style hotel is surrounded by lush gardens and it has a huge rooftop pool.

It’s the birthplace of the Singapore Sling cocktail which was invented at its Long Bar where Fred attempts to create the drink himself.

Its suites all have high ceilings with separate living areas. Guests get 24-hour butler service – and it’s in a league of its own with personalised itinerary and service.

Fred said the special touches from his butler makes the experience extra special.

He explained: “I arrived on Father’s Day and the butler there looked me up before I arrived.

“They prepared a Father’s Day card for me with pictures of my children and left it in the room – it was so special. I thought wow, this is a touch above the rest.”

Raffles Hotel started off as a 10-bedroom bungalow before being expanded into the grand hotel it is now with 115 suites.

The Presidential Suite in Raffles Hotel Singapore costs around £12,000 per night.

Fred’s Ultimate Hotel starts 31st August at 8pm on Channel 4.

Brits already mourning summer holiday season can ditch the cold for the sun-soaked beaches of Barbados, Antigua, St Lucia and more

The summer holiday season is officially at its end – but for those already dreading the return to the daily grind after their sun-soaked getaways, jetting off for a Caribbean cruise is sure to lift the spirits. And one cruise line has slashed prices on its autumn trips for the bank holiday weekend, with just hours left to save.

Ambassador is offering 5% off all of its remaining Caribbean cruise holidays in 2026, with prices including return flights from either Heathrow or Manchester Airport, to escape the dreary UK autumn/winter weather for golden sands and warm waters. Customers just need to book by midnight on August 31 using the discount code BANKHOL5.

First up is the Atlantic Horizons and Caribbean Discovery voyage, an epic 24-night journey sets sail from London Tilbury on October 29 and calls in France, Portugal and the Azores before crossing the Atlantic towards the islands of the West Indies. Priced from £1,709 per person for an ocean view room using the discount code – working out at just £71 per night – highlights of this trip include Antigua, Martinique, St Lucia and more, with a return flight from Barbados back to the UK included at the end.

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Next is the Tropical Treasures cruise holiday from November 22, a 14-night adventure sailing from Bridgetown, Barbados to visit the vibrant streets of Curaçao, the lush hills of Dominica, the coral reefs of Bonaire and the iconic peaks of St Lucia. Available to book from £1,614 per person using the August bank holiday discount code, there’s also the option to secure a half price premium drinks package and save on flight upgrades too.

Sailing at the start of December is the Island Rhythms and Blue Horizons trip, another 14-night holiday beginning in Barbados before heading to the likes of the lively port town of Pointe-à-Pitre, the colourful streets and bustling markets of Fort de France, and Kralendijk, Bonaire’s capital with calm beaches and rich marine life. The cheapest of Ambassador’s 2026 Caribbean cruises from £1,519 per person using the BANKHOL5 code, this voyage has eight ports of call in total to swap the depths of British winter for tropical island-hopping.

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Ambassador is offering 5% off its 2026 Caribbean voyages to customers who book by midnight on August 31 using the discount code BANKHOL5.

Rounding off Ambassador’s Caribbean cruise offers is the Christmas & New Year Caribbean Celebration, giving holidaymakers the chance to ditch the chaos of Christmas at home for a festive season with a difference. Priced from £2,469 per person with the discount and beginning a 14-night voyage on December 20, this trip will see passengers spend Christmas Day on warm sands and welcome the New Year with music, dancing and celebration at sea, exploring Grenada, Curaçao, Tobago, St Lucia and St Kitts.

Ambassador writes of its autumn/winter Caribbean cruise offering: “It’s a time of year when the Caribbean truly shines, with warm breezes, long daylight hours and a slower rhythm that invites you to breathe deeply. Whether you’re wandering colourful markets or unwinding on deck, each day brings something new.”

Ambassador isn’t the only cruise line offering Caribbean getaways as the UK weather begins to trend cooler and wetter. Fred. Olsen still has spots left for its Caribbean Christmas Island-Hopping holiday, a 31-night winter sun trip with Christmas Day at sea and New Year’s Eve in Antigua, priced from £5,799 per person with a special offer of £150 on board credit to spend.

Or for holidaymakers seeking a more budget-friendly option, TUI’s Marella has also slashed prices on some of its Caribbean cruise offers. One of the earliest deals sailing at the start of November is the Passage To Paradise trip travelling from Malaga to visit Antigua, Dominica and Barbados, now priced from £1,209 per person with a £776 discount.

Back at Ambassador, the price of each cruise includes return flights and transfers between the airport and ship, as well as full board dining while on board. Passengers will also have plenty to keep them entertained in between stops, including the use of the ship’s gym, swimming pool and hot tubs as well as a range of daily shows and activities from fitness classes, quizzes and crafting to plays, cabaret, music and dance.

Ambassador has earned an average rating of 3.9 out of five stars on Trustpilot. One passenger wrote in their review: “Fabulous Caribbean Cruise. Good food, excellent staff, great entertainment and lectures and a fantastic itinerary meant this was a fabulous holiday.”

Another fed back: “Our 45-day adventure on board Ambassador’s MV Ambition exceeded all our expectations! Sailing from Tilbury to the Caribbean via the Azores, calling at many beautiful islands. Escaping the winter weather and enjoying the beautiful Caribbean while being pampered and entertained.

“Our daily routine was very enjoyable, lectures, daily choir practice sessions leading to two shows towards the end of the cruise! Plenty of socialising, exercising on deck in the sunshine or relaxing in the spa, working out in the gymnasium with fellow athletes and trainers.”

They added: “MV Ambition is a comfortable ship with pleasant bars and restaurants, friendly and attentive staff that worked hard to make sure we had all that we required. The entertainment team were excellent, such great shows, musicals and fabulous performances!”

Not everyone gave their experience five stars, however, with one person commenting: “We were on a 46-day cruise to Cuba and the Caribbean and found the staff to be excellent, the cabins comfortable and facilities ok. I have marked the experience down due to the fact that despite saying that they cater for vegetarians we were disappointed with the food on offer.”

DID you know that Buckingham Palace has its own cinema, post office and even a mini bank?

I didn’t. Nor did the handful of punters and their kids behind me, who were now all gawping with fascination at the extravagant building from their shiny bus seats.

Claim 25% off children’s tickets for the The Original London Kids Tour

The royal premises is certainly a spectacular sight to behold with its grand curved arches and towering bronze statue.

And we’ve got one of the best views in town: from the upper deck of an open-roofed London bus.

The Original’s London Kids Bus Tour may be aimed at youngsters, but there are enough juicy facts in there to keep adults hooked on their guide’s every word as they tour the capital’s most recognisable landmarks.

And right now Sun readers can save 25% on children’s tickets by clicking here, with ages two and under going free.

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I tried the Thames dining cruise with two courses & London’s top landmarks for £38

In just under an hour, my niece and I had ticked off Big Ben, Downing Street, the London Eye, and of course the residence of King Charles. 

His Majesty wasn’t at home, though. “You can tell from the flag’s position,” our guide explains. “If it’s flying high, he’s in the building.”

That’s one fact I did know.

We also learned the stories behind the four grand lion statues in Trafalgar square and how Nelson’s Column was built to commemorate the Battle of Trafalgar, hundreds of years ago.

Facts were cleverly sandwiched between fun sightseeing tasks for kids, like spotting the golden pineapples on top of Lambeth Bridge.

Kids had to use their noggins, too, to answer age-appropriate quiz questions such as: “What’s the name of that big clock over there?”

Claim 25% off children’s tickets for the The Original London Kids Tour

I’ll give you one guess as to where our guide was pointing. 

And just as we were gazing up at the mighty Big Ben he roared into action, bellowing his tuneful chime. 

That’s the other brilliant thing about these tours, each one is perfectly-timed to include key moments like this.

On top of Big Ben’s gong, we heard the merry jingle from Fortnum & Mason’s grand clock on Piccadilly and watched from a distance as visitors piled into pods on the mighty London Eye.

“That is SO high,” my niece squealed, pointing excitedly at the big wheel.

This monument is actually taller than Big Ben, our guide highlights. Those trivia facts just keep on coming.

When we clamber off after an exhilarating hour, a free activity booklet will keep kids faces from going sour.

It’s loaded with mini tasks like spot the difference, word searches and dot-to-dots, all leaning on their new-found knowledge of the capital.

Something to keep them busy while parents grab a coffee.

I can’t think of a better way to see the sights, either, than from the comfort of a classic red double-decker (don’t panic, the upper deck is partially roofed for when the weather takes a turn).

There’s plenty of space on board, too.

We were visiting on a maximum-capacity day and there were still lots of free seats scattered around.

At £24pp it’s cracking value, too. And now you can bag yourself an even bigger discount, with 25% off children’s tickets.

The best part? You can also claim seven other freebies as part of the offer.

Your ticket for The Original Tour also includes a Hop-On Hop-Off River Thames cruise, where you can soak up the sights from the water.

Plus you’ll get access to six self-guided walking tours via The Original Tour’s partner app.

That’s three ways to see London for the price of one – all of which are child-friendly, hassle-free and put together by experts.

Claim 25% off children’s tickets for the The Original London Kids Tour

Prices correct at the time of publication.

Perhaps best of all, on that little fishing pier often half hidden by anglers and eager diners, stands Fathom Bistro, Bait and Tackle. Fathom has a far more ambitious menu that your average bait merchant, including lots of craft bees and sausages, kimchi and beignets made in house. I loved my Baja Dog there (onions and pico de gallo are involved), but bolder eaters may opt for the Explodo Dog, which brings a Vienna Beef hot dog, bacon, pepper jack cheese, kimchi and mustard together at last.

Given all these assets, I’m ready to forgive Shelter Island for not really being an island. This mini-peninsula is connected to the mainland by Shelter Island Drive. It was created in the 1950s, when the San Diego Port District dredged the bay, built up a peninsula and zoned it for tourist businesses with a tiki/Polynesian theme.

From the Bali Hai restaurant (since 1954) at the north end of the mile-long isthmus to the Kona Kai resort at the other end, that theme survives. The hotels include Humphrey’s Half Moon Inn, whose annual summer Concerts by the Bay series runs from April into November and brings acts like Tower of Power, Pat Metheny, Judy Collins, Robert Plant and Rodrigo y Gabriela to an amphitheater at water’s edge. Savvy kayakers paddle up nearby and listen for free.

Also found on Shelter Island: several yacht brokers and boat repair operations, a Tunaman’s Memorial Sculpture, a Friendship Bell from Yokohama, a longstanding osprey nest atop a light pole by the friendship bell, a boat ramp and the kid-friendly Grace Beach (which gets no waves).

By the way, back when San Diego’s Port District was creating almost-islands (and the California Coastal Commission didn’t exist), it also made nearby Harbor Island, which has a few more marinas and hotels, along with a closely grouped trio of restaurants with perhaps the best downtown skyline views in the city: Coasterra (modern Mexican), Island Prime (steakhouse) and C Level (seafood).

If you have a first-time California visitor on your hands, take them to one of those. Suddenly, our real estate prices will make a little more sense.

This week we want to know all about your favourite (non-ski) holidays in Europe’s mountains. It could include hiking, via ferrata or cycling routes, activity or spa breaks, regional food, wonderful vistas and places to stay, such as a mountain refuge or cabin.

The best tip, chosen by Tom Hall of Lonely Planet wins a £200 voucher to stay at a Coolstays property – the company has more than 3,000 worldwide. The best tips will appear in Saturday magazine and on the Travel website.

Keep your tip to about 100 words

If you have a relevant photo, do send it in – but it’s your words we will be judging for the competition.

We’re sorry, but for legal reasons you must be a UK resident to enter this competition.

The competition closes on Monday 7 September at 10am BST

Have a look at our past winners and other tips

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Crime rates, long-term unemployment and poor health outcomes have long plagued a town that is now under threat from rising sea levels and has attracted “dark tourists”

“On a sunny afternoon, it feels like a ghost town. I feel like I am in a film about a lost time,” explains Christopher Moss, having visited what is probably the UK’s most maligned seaside town.

The travel writer has spent decades exploring the UK in an effort to unearth parts of the country that most either miss or ignore altogether, to then put a spotlight on those places. The results have been turned into a newly published book, Where Tourists Seldom Tread.

Among the two dozen towns featured in the book is Jaywick, a seaside spot in Essex that regularly comes in for a real kicking. It has been officially ranked as England’s most deprived neighbourhood four times running (2010, 2015, 2019, and again in 2025) by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.

Crime rates, long-term unemployment and poor health outcomes have long plagued a town that is now under threat from rising sea levels. The town has become something of a punching bag, with YouTube “dark tourists” regularly turning their cameras on Jaywick and even a US Republican congressional candidate using a photo of neglected housing and potholed roads in an election ad warning American voters about economic decline.

In his 1983 classic travelogue, The Kingdom by the Sea, Paul Theroux dismissed Jaywick as being like an “Argentinian shanty town”. The Channel 5 documentary series Benefits by the Sea was filmed here in 2015.

Chris does not sugarcoat what he found on his trip to Jaywick, but instead lifts up the intriguing, unique and beautiful parts of the town that are easy to miss amidst the damning headlines.

“I was taken by how beautiful it is to be on the waterside there,” Chris told the Mirror. “It has this golden beach and this feeling of being in a foreign country. It was very calm and warm. Sedate even.”

The feeling of being somewhere other than England is added to by the chalets that make up most of the housing stock in Jaywick. The town was founded about 100 years ago when property developer Frank Stedman bought 24 acres of flood-prone marshland near the popular resort of Clacton, and flogged it in small parcels to Londoners looking to escape the city for the weekend. They were encouraged to build their own homes from kits, with suggested models costing just £52, although these were made of “rough cast asbestos” bricks.

The promise of a lake and sports centre never materialised, but what did was a curious housing estate in the shape of a car radiator grille with roads named after old vehicle manufacturers.

The destruction of East London during WW2 led many to move into their Jaywick homes full-time, not just for the holidays. “Eighty years later, materials and decor and fixtures have changed, but they are still weekend-sized and vulnerable to floods, time and family budgets,” writes Chris. While some of the homes are “stoved in”, others are well looked after and kept looking fresh.

As well as the strong Essex/London hybrid accent, what remains in Jaywick are the Martello Towers. The squat structures were built in large numbers along the coasts of Britain and other parts of the former British Empire, mostly during the early 19th century, primarily to provide a defensive base should Napoleon launch a land invasion.

The design was inspired by a round fortification at Mortella Point in Corsica, which British forces attacked in 1794. A small garrison there put up unexpectedly stiff resistance against Royal Navy ships, inspiring the Brits to steal the idea.

Jaywick’s tower is still intact and now plays host to an arts, heritage and community centre. It was saved earlier this year when an Essex County Council plan to cut £90,000 of funding prompted a local backlash. Part of it is given over to residents’ poems that both sing Jaywick’s praises and reckon with its challenges.

One from Anna Mae reads: “Sirens blazing, blue lights flashing, drunkards fighting, eau de weed pervading, boom boxes blaring, foxes screaming way into the night. Seagulls screeching their morning calling, school kids running, mums beckoning, voices straining, muted threatening, coaches arriving, mobility scooters racing, cars parking, buckets and spades unloading, excited cries, tired of eye spying, children clamouring eager to see the sea, new land dredged from marshes keep on sinking, sea will continue claiming what is hers.”

It is this constant and growing risk of inundation that adds to the place’s strange atmosphere, as does the feeling of a community bonded by a world that is against them.

“Put-downs can spread the shame, but not here; people defend the right to be proud of their homes,” Chris concludes.

“All I’m saying to readers is it’s okay to accept the headlines, but go and see and say hello. Most of these places are not as bad as the press presents.”

Where Tourists Seldom Tread is available in hardback for £19 and ebook for £12.99 on bookshop.org.

HAVE you ever struggled to get to sleep on a plane? Well, what if the plane was actually a hotel?

A new hotel has just opened in Malaysia where you can stay on two planes.

In Johor Bahru – the third-largest city in Malaysia – you’ll find the new 1975 Avenue & Hotel formed of two Boeing 747 planes once used by Pan Am and Japan Airlines.

The planes – nicknamed Bove and Bey – form part of the new hotel, which has 38 rooms in total.

To get on each plane, guests will have to board via a jet bridge from the main hotel.

Each plane then has nine suites onboard designed around different countries including Indonesia, China, England and Thailand.

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In the Premium Suites, guests will be able to enjoy two levels of accommodation including a king-sized bed, a freestanding bath, a rain shower and a separate lounge area.

Even the cockpit on each plane has been transformed into a lounge area, complete with original details.

The suites cost from 1,706 Malaysian Ringgits (£267.36) per night.

The two planes sit in the middle of the wider hotel complex where you can book into regular rooms – many of which have views of the two orange-painted planes.

And below the wings of the planes is where you will find a man-made beach pool, a kid’s waterpark and bar.

The hotel also boasts a rooftop pool, sunken hot tub, a fully equipped gym and a spa as well.

When it comes to grabbing something to eat, the hotel has an all-day dining restaurant as well.

The hotel isn’t too far from Singapore either, as well as just 20 minutes from Senai International Airport.

EXCLUSIVE: A female pilot has shared the way she’s experienced sexism in the workplace, saying it’s probably not in the way you think, and shared a common misconception about pilots

Raja Katz was around 12 or 13 years old when she realised being a pilot was the “only thing” she wanted to do as a career. But it wasn’t because she wanted to follow in any family members’ footsteps, as she “didn’t know any pilots, let alone a female one” – it was just a gut feeling she had.

To test out her theory, at 15 she “started flying gliders,” which is how she managed to “turn the fascination into something concrete”. She explained: “Looking back, not having a role model or mentor of my own is a big part of why I now spend so much time trying to help increase representation for female pilots.”

Now, speaking exclusively to the Mirror, Raja has lifted the lid on what life as a female airline pilot – and how passengers react when they realise there’s a woman in the cockpit.

How did Raja become a pilot?

Raja, who posts on social media as @raja_in_the_sky, explained: “Broadly, there are two ways in. You can go through an airline’s own cadet programme, where you’re selected and trained specifically for that airline, which is comparatively rare and highly competitive. Or you go through a private flight school that you fund yourself, which is the far more common route.

“Either way, you start with classroom training, the theoretical side covering things like air law, meteorology, navigation and aircraft systems, and you sit a set of legal exams for that, either alongside or before your practical flying. The practical side starts on small, single-engine aircraft and builds up from there.

“You then add a multi-engine rating, which qualifies you to fly aircraft with more than one engine, along with an instrument rating and multi-crew training. Once you’ve completed the required theory exams, you hold what’s called a “frozen” ATPL (Airline Transport Pilot License), which becomes a full license once you’ve built up enough flight hours.

“The final and most specific step is the type rating: the license for one particular aircraft type, an Airbus A320 or a Boeing 737, for example. This is most often provided or paid for by your employer once you’re hired.”

A typical day

Raja explained that there’s no such thing as a typical day at work as a pilot, and “every day is different”, but that’s what she loves about it. She explained: “Flying long-haul, you start your working day at your home base anywhere between early morning and late evening, depending on the flight.

“You report for duty and meet your fellow pilots, and depending on the flight time, there can be more than two of us on duty for a flight. Shortly after, you meet the cabin crew and go over the particulars for that flight: safety-relevant aspects and procedures, often for the first time, since it’s frequently the first time most of us have met at all.

“Then we take the crew bus out onto the apron (the area of the airport where planes are parked), boarding the aircraft, and once all checks are complete, the passengers board too. We finish our flight preparations: entering the route into the onboard computer, calculating our takeoff speeds, and thoroughly briefing the crew on that specific departure.

“Once loading is done and everyone’s on board, we get pushed back, taxi to the runway, run through our checklists, and we’re ready to take off. During cruise, we’re constantly monitoring weather, routing and terrain, and building contingency plans in case we ever need to land immediately.

“My long-haul sectors typically run between seven and 14 hours. As we get closer to our destination, we brief the entire approach and descent procedure in detail. After landing, we taxi to the gate, the passengers disembark, we hand the aircraft over to maintenance for its routine checks, and we head off to clear immigration and get to the hotel.”

Her experience with sexism

Raja has experienced sexism, but probably not “in the way people expect”. She explained: “The pilots and cabin crew I actually fly with have never questioned my competence, not once, and my colleagues take me seriously. Where I do notice it is with passengers, and it happened more often when I was flying short-haul.

“On those smaller aircraft, there’s barely any physical distance between where passengers board and the cockpit door, so people would see me walk in and react on the spot. Long-haul jets are bigger, and there’s simply much less contact between passengers and the flight crew, so I hardly ever get those moments now.

“Any form of discrimination is, of course, unacceptable. Sometimes, however, it’s more of a surprise on some faces when a woman is flying rather than rejection, and I understand that reaction, because it’s still rare”.

What Raja wishes people knew about pilots

Raja explained there’s “one thing” that she’d “love to clear up”. “It’s the difference between ‘pilot’ and ‘co-pilot’, because a lot of people assume the co-pilot is somehow the backup, someone who’s there just in case and doesn’t really fly the plane”, she said.

She continued: “That’s not how it works. Both the captain and the first officer, which is the correct term for what most people call the co-pilot, hold the same type rating for that aircraft and are both fully qualified to fly it.

“We take turns being ‘pilot flying’ and ‘pilot monitoring’ from one leg to the next, so on any given flight, it might be the first officer’s hands on the controls for takeoff and landing, not the captain’s. I’m a first officer myself, so I fly plenty of those sectors, take-offs and landings included, exactly like a captain would.

“The real difference between the two roles is seniority and responsibility. Captains have more experience and additional command training, and they carry the final legal authority and responsibility for the flight. But day to day, both of us are pilots in every sense of the word”.

For more information on learning to become a pilot, including the qualifications needed and the costs involved, visit the Civil Aviation Authority website.

A NEW area of one of the world’s most visited tourist attractions is being opened to the public.

The Natural History Museum in London is officially the UK’s most popular attraction, with seven million tourists visiting each year and soon a new area in the museum will open.

Closed since World War II, the Nature and Us gallery will open to the public next month.

Opening on September 16, the gallery will be free to visit and will be home to 50 objects linked to humans’ relationship with the natural world.

The space has been closed to the public since 1943 and includes a miniature model of a Crystal Palace dinosaur and Jenny, a Victorian skeleton of a monk seal.

Visitors will also be able to touch a replica jaw of one of Britain’s earliest known domesticated dogs, which dates to around 14,300 years ago.

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All visitors can then have their say on their favourite stories from the gallery, which will then be moved into the permanent collection in 2029.

The gallery is located on the second floor of the museum.

It used to be a skeleton gallery and mammal gallery.

When the museum’s original herbarium was damaged during the Second World War, it was then turned into the botanicals new home.

Today, the original wooden herbarium cabinets remain.

Dr Doug Gurr, Director of the Museum, said: “Reopening this remarkable gallery is an exciting moment for the Museum.

“For the first time in over 80 years, visitors will be able to step into this beautiful historic space and explore our changing relationship with the natural world.

“It’s another important step in our NHM150 transformation as we create new spaces that inspire people to become advocates for the planet.”

The reopening of the gallery is part of the NHM150 campaign which includes opening a new or revitalised gallery each year until 2031.

I used to live in Poland. I worked in a fish-and-chip shop in the western city of Poznań, boning cod and peeling potatoes for £1.50 an hour. With the exception of that job, I enjoyed everything about my time in the country, not least the food. I liked the chicken broth with noodles, the slippery herring, the knuckles of pork the size of basketballs, the cold beetroot soup that beats gazpacho hands down.

One thing I was less delighted by were Polish dumplings – pierogi. It wasn’t that they weren’t nice – they were – it was more that they didn’t seem to warrant the extreme levels of affection and esteem Poles often bestow on the doughy parcels. By being ambivalent about them, I was going against a well-established grain.

It is claimed by some that pierogi arrived in Poland via Marco Polo (actually a myth), and that the oldest written Polish recipe dates to 1682 (true). In short, these things have pedigree, and you denigrate them at your peril. I almost lost a Polish friend once for not being smitten with Poland’s answer to gyoza and ravioli. Such was her reaction, you’d have thought I’d denigrated the late Polish pope, John Paul II.

“I don’t understand this mentality,” said Paulina. “Have you tried the ones filled with cheese and potato?”

“Yep.”

“Have you had the ones from the fancy place on the old square?”

“Yep.”

“Have you had the frozen ones from the supermarket?”

“Uh-huh.”

“Have you had the ones from the milk bar near Freedom Street?”

“More than once.”

“Hm. Have you tried my grandmother’s?”

“Erm, no.”

“Well there you are. Mystery solved. That explains your mentality. You have to reserve judgment and stop talking nonsense until you’ve tried the dumplings of a babcia.”

I had versions of this conversation several times when telling Poles that I was merely fond of pierogi rather than hopelessly devoted. On each occasion, the babcia (grandmother figure) in question was either dead or otherwise engaged, meaning that their dumplings couldn’t be tested, and my opinion – that pierogi are just OK – couldn’t be validated.

Until now perhaps. Having enjoyed searching for the perfect steak frites in Paris, I set myself the task of giving pierogi a proper crack of the whip in one of Poland’s finest cities – its jewel on the Baltic coast, Gdańsk. Could the old port city cure me of my pierogi scepticism? Would the dumplings of a local babcia bowl me over? The answer was yes … and no.

Gdański Bowke

The provided text explores the historical evolution of Italy, beginning with its unification as a kingdom in the 19th century under King Victor Emmanuel II. It details the pivotal transition in 1946 when a national referendum led to the dissolution of the monarchy and the establishment of the Italian Republic. Following this shift, the document explains that the royal family was exiled due to their ties to fascism, and the nation’s constitution was rewritten to permanently ban monarchical rule. The source also traces the origins and traditions of Republic Day, which was officially recognized as a national holiday in 1949. While the date of the celebration was temporarily moved for economic productivity, it eventually returned to  … 

Family travel expert Hannah Britt says it’s time to add Marmaris in Turkey to your bucket list. An untapped gem, it provides a mix of history and nature ideal for children to explore

From paradisiacal waters to fascinating archeology, it’s time to add Marmaris to your family travel plans. A bustling, energetic coastal resort on the Turkish Riviera, framed by pine-clad mountains and a turquoise ocean, it blends a lively party scene and child-friendly beaches with a historic old town and scenic natural bays. Having heard tell of the “Maldives of Europe”, I packed my factor 50, swept up my two children, and went to see what all the fuss was about. And I’m pleased to report that Marmaris did not disappoint…

What to see…

Amos Ancient City

Perched on a scenic headland roughly 24km south of Marmaris, Amos is an ancient Carian settlement tucked between the modern coastal towns of Turunç and Kumlubük. Historically part of the Rhodian Peraia during the Hellenistic period (dating back to around the 4th century BC), Amos served as a key fortified coastal city.

The ruins sit atop the pine-and olive-clad hill of Asarcık, offering sweeping, panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea and surrounding bays. Despite its modest size compared to larger archaeological sites in Turkey, Amos boasts remarkable historical remnants. Its standout feature is a well-preserved ancient theatre capable of seating roughly 1,300 spectators, where visitor seating, orchestra floor outlines, and structural bases remain visible today.

Beyond the theatre, visitors can explore sections of fortified polygonal city walls with defensive towers, the traces of a Temple of Apollo, and ancient grave structures (necropolis) scattered across the slopes. Free to access and far less crowded than major tourist hotspots, Amos offers a quiet mix of history and natural beauty, accessible via a short uphill hike from Amos Bay.

Little ones: The walk up to Amos is easy, even for the littlest legs – and it’s well worth it for the view at the top. A wonderful place to sit and feel the history of the place.

Marmaris Castle

A visit to central Marmaris would simply be incomplete without seeing Marmaris Castle – a historic hilltop fortress that overlooks the scenic harbour and city beyond. According to the Greek historian Herodotus, the first fortifications on this site were built around 3,000 BC during the Hellenistic period. The current structure was largely rebuilt in 1522 by Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent as a military base for his campaign to conquer nearby Rhodes.

A French warship damaged part of the castle during World War I. Local residents lived inside the fortress walls until 1979. Following major restorations, it officially opened to the public as a museum in 1991. Archeological galleries feature Hellenistic, Roman, and Byzantine artefacts, including amphorae retrieved from local shipwrecks, tombstones, and the Apollo Altar frieze from Knidos. Ethnographic rooms display traditional regional items, local crafts, and everyday objects from the Ottoman period.

Little ones: A walk around the ancient stone walls provided reenactment fun for my little ones, who pretended they were soldiers defending their very own castle.

Honey House

The Marmaris Honey House (known locally as Marmaris Bal Evi) is a unique, interactive apiculture museum and visitor centre located in the tiny mountain village of Osmaniye, near Marmaris. Built in an eye-catching, honeycomb-shaped architectural structure, the centre serves to educate visitors on the rich history of Turkish beekeeping and to promote Marmaris pine honey, a distinct, world-renowned regional product. In fact, the surrounding Muğla region supplies roughly 92% of the world’s pine honey, with Marmaris accounting for 30% of that total.

Indoor and outdoor galleries showcase the complete journey of pine honey production. Visitors can view traditional Anatolian hives, a glass-walled observation hive to watch live bees at work, and modern centrifuge and transport tools. Dedicated spaces demonstrate how bee products like royal jelly, pollen, propolis, and honey are used for healing and health.

Little ones: It’s fascinating to see the bees in the glass-fronted hives, and my six year old loved spotting the queen. Almost as much as she loved trying the pine honey at the end…

Where to eat…

Orfoz

Orfoz Restaurant is a popular riverside dining spot located directly on the edge of the crystal-clear Azmak River in Akyaka, Muğla. Tables are set right along the riverbank under the shade of mature trees. Some tables even allow guests to dip their feet directly into the ice-cold Azmak River while eating. Diners can watch ducks, geese, and passing river boats turn around near the restaurant.

Known primarily as a fish restaurant, it features a large cooler/display cabinet where guests can choose their own fresh fish to be grilled to order. Orfoz also offers a wide variety of traditional Turkish cold and warm mezzes, unique salads, and small plates (such as pomegranate, plum and parsley mezze, and grilled onions with yogurt sauce). We had the grilled octopus, which was cooked to perfection.

Little ones: a gaggle of friendly geese and ducks provided endless entertainment while we ate in the shaded spot, coming right up to the kids to say hello.

DEDE

Dede Restaurant is one of the oldest and most respected family-run dining spots in Marmaris, located right on the historic marina. Opened in 1973, the name “Dede” (grandfather in Turkish) was chosen in honour of the family patriarch, Ali Denizelli, a local figure who lived to 104.

Currently run by the grandchildren and fourth generation of the founding family, it sits on the marina front and provides a great people watching spot and specialises in fresh daily seafood, signature Aegean mezzes, Mediterranean dishes, and classic Turkish options. An upscale yet casual waterfront dining with views overlooking the bay and boats. The people watching is sublime – better than TV!

Little ones: Children are welcomed with open arms at this Marmaris institution and the menu, in particular the seafood, is divine.

The day trip

Turkist gulet cruise

The highlight of our stay in Marmaris had to be the day we spent on Diva Deniz, a 29m luxury ketch-style traditional Turkish gulet available for private cruise charters. We were picked up from our hotel pier and taken on board for a spectacular journey around the bays near Marmaris. Once moored, we could jump in the beautiful water to snorkel.

The boat, run by Gulet Point, was stunning, with places to lounge in the sun and shade – and a delicious freshly cooked lunch served, with garlic prawns, pan fried fish and mezze. When I say we did not want our day on the Diva Deniz to end, it’s an understatement. The cruise allowed us to see the real beauty of Marmaris, and is something we will remember forever.

Little ones: A paddleboard provided on the boat was brilliant, allowing the kids somewhere to sit awhile and bob on the lapping water.

Where to stay

Grand Yazici Club Turban

The Grand Yazici Club Turban Hotel is a four star all-inclusive resort nestled where pine forests meet the Aegean Sea. It sits directly on a pretty sand-and-shingle beachfront with its own private pier; connected by a scenic coastal promenade to Marmaris. It’s big, with over 500 rooms, but thanks to its leafy setting, feels incredibly tranquil.

For the hungry, there are plenty of places to eat, from upmarket restaurants to chilled out cafes. A main buffet restaurant provides something for all tastes, from pizza to local cuisine, alongside specialised venues like La Querida Beach Club & Restaurant and the Italian à la carte restaurant Le Farfalle, plus dedicated snack, pastry, and ice cream shops.

When it comes to activities, you’re spoiled for choice with multiple outdoor swimming pools (including a main activity pool, relax pool, and adults-only sections), an indoor thermal pool, and a mini water park with slides. Elsewhere, there are two spas featuring separate Turkish hammams and saunas for men and women, plus thermal bath facilities and massage rooms. There are tennis courts, volleyball, a fitness gym, live music performances, and evening shows in the amphitheater too.

We stayed in a family suite, with shared access to a private pool. It was spotless, stylish and absolutely huge, with a comfy living room to read in when the midday sun got too hot. A beautiful terrace overlooked the sea, on which we were served a daily Turkish breakfast with a well made flat white. A brilliant want-for-nothing family hotel less expensive than many of its five star counterparts.

Little ones: There’s a dedicated kids’ club, children’s pool, playground, trampolines, and a mini football pitch.

Cost: Grand Yazici Club Turban Hotel room prices start from around £63 per night for standard bookings in low season, while complete all-inclusive holiday packages start from approximately £369 per person.

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

Families should be aware of some important rules before they travel

Heathrow has issued a summer travel update telling families they can now benefit from a major change to Britain’s airport border controls.

The airport said: “Get ready for easier arrivals for families. Children aged 8 and 9 will now be able to use the eGates. They will need to have an eligible passport and be travelling with an adult”. The change could prove a welcome boost for parents returning to Britain from their summer holidays – potentially cutting the time they spend queuing at passport control.

Children aged eight and nine can use UK eGates, bringing them into line with older children who are already eligible to use the automated border gates.

But there is an important catch. The youngsters must have an eligible passport, be travelling with an adult and, under the Government’s rules, be at least 120cm (3ft 11in) tall.

The change came into force on July 8, just as the summer holiday travel season was getting into full swing. And the Government estimates that up to 1.5 million more children could become eligible to use eGates over the next year.

For parents facing the prospect of tired youngsters after a long flight, the prospect of avoiding a lengthy passport-control queue could be particularly welcome. Heathrow has urged passengers travelling with younger children to check airport signage or speak to staff if they are unsure which lane they should use.

What parents need to know

The expanded eGate access applies to eight and nine-year-olds who meet the requirements.

They must:

• Be aged eight or nine
• Be at least 120cm tall
• Have an eligible passport
• Be travelling with an adult

The Government says the change covers more than 290 eGates across the UK and at so-called juxtaposed ports, where British border checks are carried out in Europe. Millions of passengers already use eGates each year.

The Government says using one typically takes only a few minutes – and increasing the number of people who can use them should also help reduce queues for passengers who still need to go through staffed passport control.

Major change for families

The move was announced by the Home Office in May as part of a wider programme to transform the UK’s border system. Migration and Citizenship Minister Mike Tapp said: “Travel with young children can be stressful for parents.”

He said expanding eGate access would allow more families to have a “swifter and smoother journey home” while keeping Britain’s borders secure.

Border Force Director General Phil Douglas said eGates were an “essential part” of keeping the border secure.

He said the expansion would deliver safe and smooth journeys while freeing officers to concentrate on intercepting people who pose a threat to the UK.

Karen Dee, chief executive of AirportsUK, welcomed the change, saying it would give more families the opportunity to use the technology and could reduce waiting times.

Part of wider border overhaul

The change comes alongside the Government’s wider push to modernise Britain’s borders. The Electronic Travel Authorisation scheme has also been introduced for eligible travellers, with almost 25 million ETAs issued, according to Government figures.

The longer-term ambition is for a more “contactless” border, with facial comparison technology being used to verify travellers’ identities.

SOMETIMES finding a holiday spot just for adults that encourages the ultimate relaxation can feel like looking for a needle in a haystack.

Fortunately, one Greek island is home to a premium five-star resort that’s adults-only an will transport you straight to the Maldives.

Stella Island Luxury Resort in Crete, Greece looks as if it belongs in the bucket list destination thanks to its crystal clear water and overwater bungalows.

A massive lagoon-style pool also snakes through the villas.

There are 12 room types to choose from, including overwater nests where ground floor rooms have swim up pools.

And it isn’t just the pools that are great – the complex also has seven restaurants to choose from including a buffet, fine dining venue, Greek taverna, steaks and cuts restaurant, an Asian spot, a Mexican spot and a more casual lunch restaurant.

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You won’t be short of places to grab a tipple either, as there are five poolside bars.

Inside the hotel you can indulge yourself too, at the spa with an indoor heated pool, Turkish bath, hot tubs and massages available.

There’s a gym, tennis courts and padel courts too as well as the option to paddleboard on the pool that weaves through the complex.

If you really want the Maldives treatment, you could even have your breakfast floating in the pool.

A recent visitor said: “Such an amazing place in every way. The resort is exceptional from the moment you arrive.

“The food in the restaurants is amazing but I have to say that the buffet is the best I have encountered.

“First class entertainment and service in all areas.

“We enjoyed it so much, we’ve already booked for next year.”

Just 15 minutes walk from the resort is the village of Analipsi, where you will find a selection of small shops as well as tavernas.

What makes all of this even better is that from stepping outside of Crete airport the resort is only 15 minutes away.

The easiest way to get to the resort is by flying to Heraklion Airport on Crete, which costs as little as £29 per way.

FIVE fantastic Spanish holiday resorts have topped a list of our favourite holiday destinations this summer.

Online travel giant LoveHolidays studied the reviews from thousands of customers who have travelled since the schools broke up.

Families were asked to rate their hotels out of five across seven key criteria: holiday experience, location, service, value for money, cleanliness, facilities and food and drink.

The Costa Dorada resort of Cambrils took the top spot with a score of 4.55 out of five, followed by Santa Ponsa in Majorca; Puerto del Carmen in Lanzarote; Puerto Rico in Gran Canaria and Fuengirola on the Costa del Sol.

“Families have a shortlist of destinations they know and trust,” says Al Murray from loveholidays.

“But our ranking shows some of the strongest hotel experiences are happening in resort towns people might be less familiar with.

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“That’s why the customer reviews we’re now sharing on our hotel listings are so useful. They give people access to real-time feedback from other LoveHolidays travellers, making the all-important decisions of where to go and which hotel to pick that bit easier.”

Here, we’ve dug into the details as to why each destination scored so highly – and there’s a great deal for each one so you can try yourself this autumn.

Cambrils, Costa Dorada

This former fishing village has a strong reputation for seafood and Catalan cuisine so it’s no surprise it scored well for food and drink, earning an average of 4.53 from guests.

Families were also impressed with the location of hotels in the area, with a score of 4.76, and service, at 4.63.

Seven nights’ B&B at the 3* H10 Cambrils Playa is from £279pp including flights from Luton on October 17.

Santa Ponsa, Majorca

Families gave hotels in the town 4.51 and scored the destination high for holiday experience (4.61) and location (4.78) thanks to its sheltered bay, walkable seafront and easy access to Palma.

Seven nights’ self-catering at the 3* Residence Mallorca Portofino by Pierre et Vacances is from £179pp including Stansted flights on October 15.

Puerto del Carmen, Lanzarote

The resort’s mix of beaches, marina and seafront restaurants scored highly at 4.41 with hotels in the town rated well on location (4.56), holiday experience (4.53) and service (4.51).

Seven nights’ self-catering at the 3* Hyde Park Lane is from £219pp including flights from Southend on December 2.

Puerto Rico, Gran Canaria

With an overall score of 4.40, hotels here stood out for food and drink, earning the highest score at 4.75, reflecting its growing reputation for quality dining.

Seven nights’ self-catering at the 3* Holiday Club Puerto Calma is from £189pp including Stansted flights on September 16.

Fuengirola, Costa del Sol

Fuengirola scored 4.34 and hotels were rated well across the board, with strong numbers for holiday experience (4.34), cleanliness (4.60) and location (4.46).

Seven nights’ room-only at the 3* Ilunion Miramar is from £179p including flights from Luton on October 27.

Prices may not include luggage or transfers. See loveholidays.com.

I’M walking down the M1 in my flip flops, the trilling of birdsong above me as a cheeky monkey throws fruit skins from the trees.

The only motors on this brick-lined path winding through the jungle of the Rayavadee Resort in Krabi are those powering the sunset chorus.

And while the bright lights of Thailand’s big cities may mean chaotic tuk tuks, the only traffic jam I see is a family of spectacled langur monkeys running from one tree to another before scampering across the beachfront.

“It’s 5pm, it’s their home time,” a staff member tells me. In the slow lane is the water monitor lizard, lazily crossing the path before slinking into the pond to cool down.

This beautiful resort in the heart of Krabi’s Phra Nang Peninsula on the border of the marine national park delivers laid-back luxury with not one but three stunning beaches lapped by the warm waters of the Andaman Sea.

My home off the M1 pathway was a circular, two-storey, dome-roofed wooden pavilion designed to echo the unique rounded cliff rock formations that pepper the surrounding landscapes.

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Downstairs, there’s a living room with plush seating and garden views.

Up an open, spiral staircase is the spacious bedroom, with the pavilion’s curved glass windows welcoming the jungle indoors.

Those naughty monkeys are just as keen on the luxury digs — make sure to keep your terrace doors locked otherwise you might have a visitor raiding your minibar.

And as tempting as it would be to simply pull up a lounger on one of the three stunning beaches it sits on — Railay West, Phra Nang and Nam Mao — part of the hotel’s ethos is to get you out there and interacting with the local community.

We set off bright and early in a truly unique transfer — a giant sea tractor to counteract the challenges of the low tide.

I hung on for dear life in the metal carriage contraption the tractor pulls along, before swapping to a longboat for part two of the journey as the savvy captain manoeuvred along narrow channels.

I’d survived, jelly-legged, but not for long.

A short drive away were the waterfalls of Khao Phanom Bencha National Park, a primary filming location for Jurassic World: Rebirth featuring Scarlett Johansson and Jonathan Bailey.

Our guide warned us it was a “bit of a challenge” to get there.

And, just like Thai people have a different definition of “spicy” compared to us Brits, what they call a slight challenge is an understatement.

I clambered up what felt like sheer rock faces, stretching my knees almost to my ears as I attempted to reach the summit. But it was worth it.

The steep path cleared and ahead was a beautiful, crashing waterfall and lagoon surrounded by trees.

I threw off my sweat-soaked T-shirt and slid into the pool (water monitor lizard style) to cool off in the 30C heat.

My only disappointment was the lack of Jonathan Bailey in it. No matter.

My afternoon took me to Klong Root, a haven for kayakers.

Paddling through mirror waters, the shade of the mangrove trees was welcome, with the splashing of my oars being the only sound.

This was followed by a local cooking class in the rural community Baan Nong Talay, the pounding of the chilli plant making my eyes water from the heat.

But the delights of the Rayavadee Resort were calling and I made it back in time to grab a table at the most sought-after spot to watch the sunset, The Grotto, nestled on the edge of Phra Nang Beach.

As a riot of bright pink and orange burst across the skyline, my lychee martini went down just as easily as the sun before a meal of freshly grilled steak and Andaman lobster straight off the coals.

After the luxe lifestyle at Rayavadee I was not ready to take on the buzzing streets of Bangkok after our flight there.

Bang Kachao is just 45 minutes from the centre but couldn’t be a bigger contrast.

This lush green oasis where the Chao Phraya River bends in a sharp U-turn is known as Bangkok’s “Green Lung”.

For just £1 you can rent a bike to cycle along the forest paths — the perfect pause before a whirlwind 24 hours in the most happening city neighbourhoods.

I braved the crowds of Song Wat — named one of the world’s coolest neighbourhoods — for copious amounts of coffee, photobooth snaps and funky souvenirs.

I mooched over to the historical Talat Noi, where honking scooters screeched past while I browsed local street art, devoured tiny coconut pancakes for 20p and Chang beers for £1.80.

I filled my bag with local Thai designer clothes in Siam before a late-night massage for a quarter of the price of in the UK.

My days of relaxation threatening to be forgotten about, the beautiful Park Hyatt welcomed me with air-conditioned arms.

It came in the form of rooftop infinity pools, rooms with just-as-amazing views from the floor-to-ceiling windows, and one of the best breakfast buffets I’ve ever had.

Fresh pork congee, mango sticky rice and Thai tea waffles — I’d be coming back with more weight than just my suitcase.

But after some of the best food, people and sunsets of my life? Who could be Krabi about that . . . 

IT’S half nine at night on the summer solstice.

The light is doing the golden hour thing it only does in June, and my four-year-old is scattering dragonflies as she launches herself into the cold water.

“Can we go in the ‘cold pool’ again?” she asks the next morning. Again. She has asked roughly 200 times this week.

The pool in question is the natural swim pond at Tanylan Farm, on the coast road between Ferryside and Kidwelly in Carmarthenshire.

We stayed in Ty Llo (Calf House), one of a handful of holiday barns on site — and the pool was the single best thing that has ever happened to my daughter.

Rain or shine, morning or night, she was in it.

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There was a sauna next to it for the grown-ups, a private hot tub outside our holiday cottage, and the beach was 400 yards down the lane.

My wife and I, our daughter and baby son had travelled by train to Swansea then picked up a hire car and made our way to Carmarthenshire — that bit of Wales everyone drives past on the way to Pembrokeshire. Their loss.

On day one, the sun was out so we visited Pembrey Country Park — 500 acres of woodland backing on to Cefn Sidan, an eight-mile stretch of sand that was the first beach in Wales to win a Blue Flag.

The sand is absurdly fine and the water so shallow that by mid- afternoon it had warmed up like a paddling pool.

For small children, it is close to perfect.

The park itself is the showstopper, though.

There’s a dry ski slope, a toboggan run, crazy golf, a pirate adventure playground and miles of flat, traffic-free cycling on rental bikes.

We arrived planning to stay two hours and left after seven.

Next day, the National Botanic Garden of Wales, just over half an hour’s drive from the farm, was one of the most relaxing family days out we’ve ever done.

Monty Python fame

Think Eden Project but at a size you can easily get round with a buggy and a pre-schooler.

The Great Glasshouse, packed with plants of six Mediterranean climates, sits in the landscape like a dropped raindrop.

We ate our picnic sandwiches in the “Canary Islands”, with the smell of cedar and lavender.

Outside is 568 acres of restored Regency parkland, lakes, waterfalls — and a Gruffalo trail themed on the kids’ book character.

Kidwelly Castle, of Monty Python movie fame, is a 20-minute drive away.

“Let’s climb to the top, Daddy,” my daughter begged. So we did — and the views over the Gwendraeth estuary are worth the effort.

From on high, I told my princess-obsessed daughter about a real one, Gwenllian, who rode out from this castle to lead an army into battle against the Normans.

I left out how it ended (head lopped off) and she was suitably impressed.

Our final stop was the British Bird of Prey Centre which recently moved to a purpose-built site at Idole, near Carmarthen, after years at the National Botanic Garden of Wales.

It flies golden eagles, red kites, owls and peregrines, with three shows a day and an indoor arena for when the Welsh rain sets in.

We did get four days of rain but it barely affected our week’s getaway.

There was always a glasshouse, a castle, an indoor flying arena — or that cold pool.

We’ll be going back for more — she’s already asked.

JUST over an hour from the UK you could visit a pretty village famous for revolutionising European travel.

Schengen is a quiet village in the southeast of Luxembourg, bordering Germany and France and just an hour from Luxembourg city.

The village was the precise spot where the 1985 Schengen Agreement was signed, creating Europe’s passport-free travel zone.

The small village – home to just 500 people – was chosen due to its location on the borders of the three countries.

In Schengen, you can head to the Schengen Museum, which costs just €3 per person to enter and showcases the history of the Schengen Agreement.

The museum even has items that have been seized at borders.

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Visitors can even step into the signing room where the agreement was signed, onboard the Prinzessin Marie-Astrid Europa vessel.

When having a wander around the village look out for the Schengen Memorial which is formed of steel columns displaying national stars, located along the waterfront.

Nearby, outdoor enthusiasts can also head to Stromberg Nature Reserve, with picturesque hikes through vineyard trails.

Once you reach the top of Stromberg hill, you will see panoramic views of all three neighboring countries.

If you want to stay in the town and enjoy its peacefulness, you can head to the Schengen Castle.

The grand chateau dates back to the 13th century when it was a moated fortress although reopened in 2024 as a hotel.

Rooms cost as little as €100 (£85.64) for a double room, but you could splurge and get the Royal Suite for €180 (£154.16) a night.

You can fly from London Stansted with Ryanair in an hour and 15 minutes for as little as £14.99 a way.

Then once in Luxembourg, bus transport is entirely free.

As it was recently revealed Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are planning to move back to England, Social News Reporter Alice Sjoberg shared her top recommendations for places to visit in the Cotswolds

As news on Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s return to to the UK dropped, the question of where quickly led to discussions and predictions. The Cotswolds is believed to be top of the list – and having just moved here myself, I can understand why.

While it would offer them the privacy they’ve been longing for, it’s still an easy commute to London. It’s also ideal for visit to several other members of the royal family’s homes, and good private schools for their little ones, Archie and Lilibet. But it also offers many places I think they should consider visiting.

While I’m no expert on the area just yet, I spent a lot of time in and around the Cotswolds for several years before I moved, as it’s where most of my friends and my partner’s family live. And not to mention, I just love it here. So here are the places I’ve visited that I think Harry and Meghan would love.

Cirencester Park

Cirencester is the capital of the Cotswolds and offers lots to do – from exploring the independent shops and cafes to the various historic grounds and Roman ruins. However, the one thing that really stood out for me was Cirencester Park.

While a park might not seem like the most exciting place to be, Cirencester Park, a Grade I-listed historic parkland, consists of 3,000 acres of gorgeous nature to explore. I’m not joking when I say the first time I visited, our ‘short morning walk’ ended up taking over four and a half hours, and we could have easily continued for longer.

Because of how big the park is, it offers plenty of opportunities for the family to enjoy the British countryside privately, as it’s easy to wander beyond where most of the crowds go.

The park is privately owned by the Bathurst Estate, which is located close to the entrance gates of the park. The Bathurst Estate also owns the Cirencester Park Polo Club, where the Royal Family sometimes have been spotted playing polo – including King Charles, Prince William, and Prince Harry himself.

And who knows, maybe Archie or Lillibet will become the next polo players of the royal family.

The Slaughters

For many people when thinking about the Cotswolds, villages like Burton-on-the-Water and Bibury will most likely spring to mind. These villages are often described to be like the ‘idyllic English villages’, with old cottages made of stone, scenic riverside settings. But due to their popularity, there are often large crowds of tourists.

But there are some equally gorgeous villages around that aren’t as popular among tourists, meaning there are less crowds and the possibility of exploring on your own – and this includes the Slaughters.

The Slaughters consists of two villages, Upper Slaughter and Lower Slaughter, and is easily connected with a scenic walking trail. The villages offer a quintessentially Cotswolds experience with unspoiled honey-coloured stone architecture, peaceful riverside settings, and a rich history, despite their ominous-sounding name.

Cotswolds Wildlife Park

When they first started dating, Prince Harry famously invited Meghan on trip to a £1,000-a-night campsite in Botswana, where they enjoyed a safari in the African wilderness. And while it may sound like a lot of hassle to bring their two young children on a safari when they’re still so young, they could head to the Cotswolds Wildlife Park.

Cotswold Wildlife Park & Gardens is home to more than 1,500 animals from 250 different species, making it one of the largest zoological collections in the United Kingdom. So while it’s not Africa, it still has a lot to offer.

Soho Farmhouse

Okay, so while I don’t personally have a membership at Soho Farmhouse, I’m sure this is something that would interest Harry and Meghan – especially as the former actress even had her hen do here in 2018.

Located in the Oxfordshire countryside, Soho Farmhouse is a private members’ club and luxury rural retreat set across 100 acres. It offers guests a sense of blissful rural isolation in a bucolic setting. It’s part of the exclusive Soho House members’ clubs that have over 28 houses across the world, and is a popular destination for celebs and professionals with a focus on the media, arts and fashion industries.

Cotswolds Lavender Fields

Throughout the years, Meghan has made it known that she has an interest in good quality food and resources, as well as the natural world, I think a visit to the Cotswolds Lavender Fields during the summer is something she, and the rest of her family, would love.

While it offers plenty of photo opportunities for adorable family photos, it also allows visitors to fully emerge themselves in the lavender, with the scent hitting you quickly. They also sell several products that are made from their own lavender.

Scattered between the Tuscan coast and Corsica, the seven islands of the Tuscan archipelago offer a striking contrast to mainland Tuscany. All are part of a protected national park, but each has its own character – some are lively, others tiny and sparsely inhabited. Montecristo and Gorgona are only accessible via strictly limited guided tours, but here’s a brief guide to the highlights of the other five.

Elba: the all-year-rounder

As Italy’s third-largest island, and with a year-round community, Elba is the archipelago’s main tourist hub, blending Napoleonic history with rugged landscapes, lively seaside towns and fine beaches. It is famous for Napoleon’s brief 1814 exile at the Palazzina dei Mulini, but its history runs much deeper, with 16th-century Medici fortifications to defend against pirate raids around the coast, and medieval hill towns, some standing on sites occupied since Roman times, inland.

Beach lovers tend to divide between the white-pebble coves of Sansone and Capo Bianco near the largest town, Portoferraio, in the north, and the golden sands of Fetovaia and Cavoli in the south-west beneath Monte Capanne. Marina di Campo on the south coast is a favourite for watersports, and windsurfing and sailing schools are popular in many resorts, from Procchio in the north to Lacona in the south.

Hikers can explore the 36-mile (58km) Grande Traversata Elbana, crossing the island from Cavo in the north-east to Pomonte or Patresi on the west coast, passing along mountain ridges and through traditional villages. Usually completed in three or four days, it’s best tackled in spring or autumn.

Where to eat: In Portoferraio, Ristorante da Gianni is a favourite for handmade pasta, seafood and traditional cuisine. Try the house speciality, orecchiette with prawns and courgettes. In Marina di Campo, Da Piero serves seafood-focused dishes right on the beach.
Where to stay: Near Fetovaia, Hotel Montemerlo (doubles from about £88 B&B) offers a relaxed, eco-conscious stay among olive groves. In Marina di Campo, Hotel Punto Verde (doubles from about £90 B&B) is a charming family-run hotel near the beach. On the west coast Hotel Gallo Nero (doubles from £79) is a family-run hotel overlooking Capo Sant’Andrea Bay. In an 18th-century building in Portoferraio’s historic centre, Indarsena (doubles from £86 B&B) is 10 minutes’ walk from several beaches.
Getting there: Ferries from Piombino to Portoferraio take about an hour with Toremar, Moby or Blu Navy.

Giglio: the charming isle

At just 21 sq km, Giglio is small but has three villages, secluded coves, an extensive coastline and a landscape of historic terraced vineyards. Access for private vehicles is heavily restricted during August, with exceptions for longer stays, which helps preserve its peaceful atmosphere, while buses and taxis link the harbour, villages and beaches, so a car-free holiday is easy.

From Giglio Porto, trails lead to hidden coves and hilltop viewpoints, while the medieval lanes of Giglio Castello, a fortified 12th-century hilltop village, are perfect for an aperitivo and an evening stroll.

Beaches have distinct characters. Campese, on the north-west coast, is the largest, with reddish-gold sand and views of the 16th-century Torre del Campese. Cannelle, in the east, offers pale sand and crystalline water, while farther north, Arenella combines golden sand, granite boulders and clear water for snorkelling.

Where to eat: In Giglio Porto, Ristorante Doria is a seafood favourite with a sea-view terrace (try spaghetti alla chitarra with sea urchin and toasted breadcrumbs). In Campese, Da Zio Meino offers cucina povera (peasant cooking) such as pancotti di mare and spaghetti alle vongole e alla bottarga (with clams and cured mullet roe).
Where to stay: On a hillside overlooking Giglio Porto, B&B La Vela (doubles from £87 B&B) is a small guesthouse with maritime-themed interiors. On a headland above Campese Bay, Le Poste di Simplicio (doubles from £100 B&B) is a family-run B&B with sweeping sea views.
Getting there: Toremar or Maregiglio ferries run from Porto Santo Stefano to Giglio Porto in about an hour.

Capraia: a wild hikers’ paradise

Located just over 20 miles (33km) north-west of Elba, Capraia is one of the archipelago’s most remote islands. Largely car-free, with few roads, it is best explored on foot along mule tracks winding between sea cliffs, hidden coves and 16th-century Genoese fortifications, although taxi boats and a bus provide limited transport.

Highlights include the red rock formations of Cala Rossa, the Genoese fortress of San Giorgio and the 16th-century Torre dello Zenòbito.

Beaches are few, but swimmers can cool off at Cala San Francesco, hike to Cala del Ceppo and Cala dello Zurletto, or take a taxi boat to Spiaggia della Mortola, one of the few sandy stretches.

Where to eat: In the main village, the fixed menu at Il Carabottino changes according to what the local fishers happen to bring ashore, while Il Pigghiolo takes a more contemporary approach, reworking island flavours in dishes such as squid parmigiana and cod croquette.
Where to stay: Accommodation is limited, but La Mandola Eco Hostel (doubles from £70 room-only) near the port is a restorative basecamp for walkers, beachgoers and divers, with a sheltered saltwater pool. In Capraia village, Il Saracino Boutique Suites is a small, characterful retreat with sea views (doubles from £130 B&B).
Getting there: The ferry from Livorno takes 1 hour 45 minutes with Toremar.

Pianosa: the protected isle

Daily visitor numbers to Pianosa are restricted, helping preserve the island’s fragile environment and tranquil atmosphere. You can either buy a ticket on the limited ferry service or join an authorised guided excursion.

Roman remains (including early Christian catacombs) and abandoned prison buildings from when the island served as a penal colony offer glimpses of its history. And the restored Casa dell’Agronomo and Museo delle Scienze Geologiche e Archeologiche explore its agricultural, geological and archaeological heritage.

Guided walks, cycling and kayak excursions are among the best ways to explore. Swimming is restricted to Cala Giovanna, an easy walk from the small port and historic village, to help safeguard the marine ecosystem.

Where to eat: Da Brunello in the small harbour village is Pianosa’s only cafe/restaurant, with a focus on fresh fish and vegetables grown on the island.
Where to stay: Close to the cafe and run by the same management, the island’s only accommodation, Albergo Milena (doubles from £95 half-board) offers simple rooms in a historic building.
Getting there: There are authorised excursions from Elba with Acquavision (45 minutes), and limited Toremar ferry services run from Piombino to Pianosa (about three hours).

Giannutri: the roadless retreat

While Elba hums with holidaymakers and Vespas, this tiny, car-free limestone crescent, where scent-heavy macchia slopes into ink-blue waters, offers a radical detox from modern life.

With only one restaurant-cafe, which also functions as a small grocery shop, day trippers are advised to bring their own water and lunch. Most people swim at Cala Spalmatoio and Cala Maestra, while much of the coastline forms part of a protected marine reserve renowned for its diving and snorkelling. A guided tour of a Roman villa linked to the Domitii Ahenobarbi family is a must.

Where to eat: La Vela Giannutri, the island’s only dining option, focuses on seafood dishes, from tuna tartare to spaghetti alle vongole.
Where to stay: Accommodation is limited to the family-run A Casa Diana (doubles from £123 B&B), with simple rooms and sea views, and a scattering of holiday rentals.
Getting there: Maregiglio runs ferries from Porto Santo Stefano, or there are seasonal excursion boats (taking about an hour). In summer, Maregiglio also operates excursions and mini-cruises between Giglio and Giannutri.