Our writer Abby Wells soaks up the culture on a wonderful weekend in the Italian capital, featuring incredible history, authentic cuisine and top tourist attractions
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We discovered some of Rome’s top hotspots and hidden gems(Image: Getty Images)
Having never been to Italy before, I was very excited to see what its capital city had to offer – and it certainly didn’t disappoint. After leaving rainy England and landing in Rome’s significantly sunnier weather just over two hours later, I was immediately smitten with the architecture, the people, the food and the history.
Where to stay in Rome
I arrived at the Grand Hotel Palace Rome in the centre of the city in the heat of the afternoon sun as I was visiting back in the summer. Walking into the cool reception, with its calm and inviting decor, was a refreshing welcome.
Restored in 2010, this boutique hotel now blends timeless Italian design with 21st-century modernity – think marble floors, huge chandeliers and stunning frescoes. Despite having 74 bedrooms and 12 luxurious suites, it has an intimate feel.
My superior room was spacious and decorated in pastel hues. It had impressive city views and was a real haven away from the hustle and bustle of the crowds outside.
This city is best explored on foot, so comfy shoes are a suitcase essential. The grand architecture is guaranteed to impress as you wander around with your gelato.
Our hotel was a stone’s throw from the gorgeous Villa Borghese, Rome’s largest park, which has landscaped gardens, sculptures and fountains, a zoo and even a replica of London’s Globe Theatre. I recommend heading to the Pincio terrace, which offers panoramic views of the city, including the famous domed roof of Saint Peter’s Basilica in the distance.
The Spanish Steps are a 10-minute walk from the hotel and although it was very busy here with tourists, I managed to find the perfect spot to sit and people watch – Babington’s tea rooms, which dates back to 1893 and is a must for tea lovers.
You can’t go to Rome and not visit Trevi Fountain. Tradition says that if you throw a coin into the fountain, you will return to the city. Already keen to visit again, I joined in.
What really struck me was how big it was. Measuring 26 metres high, it’s the biggest fountain in Rome, and undoubtedly the most magnificent. You need to join the queuing system to get close to the fountain, but this did move very quickly when I went at 9am.
Visiting the Colosseum is another must and I highly recommend booking a guided tour. My guide, Max, was extremely knowledgeable but also managed to add some humour. It was amazing seeing the huge arena where gladiators used to fight in front of thousands of people. Be sure to pre-book and get there in plenty of time, as getting through security takes a while.
After a long day of sightseeing, you can treat your tired feet to a pamper at Grand Hotel Palace’s Fusion Spa, an Asian-inspired oasis with a sauna, indoor heated saltwater pool and relaxation areas, plus a choice of indulgent treatments.
Where to eat in Rome
You’re spoilt for choice for places to eat in Rome. On every street there are lovely little tabernas strewn with fairy lights, pizzerias or shops serving gelato in every flavour imaginable.
On my first night I enjoyed the tasting menu at Grand Hotel Palace’s Ristorante Cadorin. I feasted on four courses, but the best was saved for last – the tiramisu was heavenly. I went to bed very happy with a full stomach. The hotel breakfast was buffet-style, with optional extras available to order.
If you’re looking for a traditional Italian restaurant, I recommend Checco Er Carettiere in an area called Trastevere. Tucked away down a side street, it’s family-run, serves authentic Roman dishes and has a pretty courtyard out the back. My pasta dish was just as you’d expect: utterly delicious.
If you’re a fan of fish, Il San Lorenzo is worth a visit. This sleek restaurant is reputed to offer the best seafood restaurant in Rome. If you do find yourself eating your body weight in pizza and pasta, don’t worry, as you’ll soon walk it off exploring this amazing ancient city.
Nakita Devi, a breath therapist at Limitless Living, has explained why she loves Bristol so much in the week that the city was named one of Lonely Planet’s places to visit in 2026
Nakita Devi is a big Bristol enthusiast
A resident of a UK city newly tipped as one of the best in the world to visit loves it, but would make one change if she could.
High praise indeed. And praise which Nakita Devi, a breath therapist at Limitless Living, feels is well deserved. She told The Mirror why she loves Bristol so much and what brought her back to the city.
“There’s a real blend here of history, culture, community, and events. The level of innovation and creativity almost feels tangible. I also love feeling a general sense of togetherness and trust that exists here – perhaps rare for a city,” she explained.
“I’ve lived in various other places and countries over the years, but Bristol is home because there are many people here committed to making life better for everyone; whether that’s through art and music, politics and education, social justice and inclusion, or family festivals and sober spaces. It really feels incredibly diverse, with something for everyone, more than anywhere else I’ve been.”
When it comes to her recommendations for the best places to eat, drink and visit in Bristol, the 37-year-old was teeming with ideas.
“There are so many! Stokes Croft and Gloucester Road have a whole host of independent cafés, restaurants, and bakeries. King Street is also one of my favourites for bars and pubs with its history and cobbled stones. For dinner, personally I love Indian so Rock Salt and Nutmeg are two of my top recommendations,” the born-and-raised Bristolian said.
“I love the many open green spaces that are so accessible! Brandon Hill, Ashton Court, Blaise Castle, and Leigh Woods are just a few of my favourites for a wander any time of the year.”
However, as with all places, Bristol is not perfect (although some in the city might argue it is.)
Nakita has one small note for Bristol. “It can sometimes feel quite intense. I particularly notice it when I return after being away. There’s an aliveness or electricity here that can feel overwhelming at times. Additionally, with such a constant range of events to choose from, it’s easy to want to do it all instead of prioritising rest,” she said.
Nakita shared her views on the city in the week that Bristol was named as a must-visit destination for 2026 by Lonely Planet, thanks to its vibrant street art scene. The city is the only one in the UK to feature on the travel guide’s worldwide Best In Travel list for next year.
“Bristol’s street art scene makes for a fantastic inclusion in Best in Travel, Lonely Planet’s annual celebration of essential journeys and experiences for the coming year,” said Tom Hall, vice president of Lonely Planet.
“We’re delighted to shine a light on one of the UK’s most exciting cities, showcasing the talents of local artists. Exploring the colourful, creative murals dotted around the city is the perfect first step in getting to the heart of Bristol.”
The city reportedly boasts over 250 street artworks at various locations. ‘Our Common Ground’, a large new piece covering part of the Centre, was revealed in September, although it received a somewhat mixed response.
Banksy, perhaps the world’s most famous street artist and a native of Bristol, contributes significantly to the city’s reputation. Kathryn Davis, Chief Executive of tourism body Visit West, expressed her delight that Bristol had made it into Lonely Planet’s 2026 edition, highlighting the significant financial contribution the local arts scene brings to the city and wider region, reports Bristol Live.
“Our ever-evolving outdoor gallery draws thousands of visitors from around the world each year, contributing millions of pounds to the local visitor economy,” she stated.
“Visitors not only stay in hotels and join tours, but they also contribute significantly to the visitor economy at large… Crucially, this impact extends beyond the city centre, helping to drive economic benefits across the wider city.”
According to Visit West, tourism is worth £2.6bn to the combined economy of Bristol, Bath and North East Somerset, South Gloucestershire and North Somerset. Around 45,000 people work in the ‘visitor economy’ of the region.
“We are thrilled that Lonely Planet has named Bristol in its Best in Travel 2026 for our city’s street art,” Ms Davis added. “We look forward to welcoming many more visitors this next year and beyond, to discover the humorous, playful, political and subversive street art in and around the city.”
A MAJOR UK airport has been shut down after facing difficulties with one of its runways.
Flights were cancelled and planes grounded overnight with passengers encouraged to check with their airlines to see if their journey has been affected.
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Planes due to land at the airport were diverted to other UK sitesCredit: LNPLeeds Bradford Airport was closed following issues with its runwayCredit: Alamy
Leeds Bradford Airport is expected to remain closed to both departures and arrivals until 5am on Saturday.
Jet setters were warned that the closure could continue on longer.
The first flight out of the closed airport, a Jet2 service to Heraklion in Crete, is expected to leave shortly before 5:25am.
Flights due to land at Leeds Bradford Airport were diverted and sent to other UK airports in the wake of the runway issue.
The busy airport usually operates for 24 hours a day but has been closed now until the issue can be adressed.
Staff at the airport are reportedly working at speed to fix the problem as soon as they can.
The team at Leeds Bradford Airport said that customer safety is their number on priority.
Disappointed holidaymakers can make contact with staff on the ground at terminals to ask any questions about their flights.
A statement on the airport’s website, posted at 10pm, reads: “Due to an unforeseen issue with the runway, we have had to take the decision to close the airport until the morning.
“Customers are advised to check with their airline for the most up-to-date information regarding their flight.
“We are working to resolve the disruption as soon as possible, the safety and comfort of the passengers travelling through our terminal is our number one priority.
“Our team is on the ground in the terminal to answer any customer queries regarding departures.”
Leeds Bradford Airport was granted planning permission to operate round the clock in 1994.
Dozens of flights take off and land at the busy midlands airport on a day-by-day basis.
According to the airport’s website there is a designated night-time flight period.
This lasts from 11pm to 7am every evening with only the quietest jets permitted to operate between these hours.
Here’s the full list of best to worst UK airports according to Which?
Leeds Bradford Airport’s online arrival board lists cancellations to some incoming flights – so passengers heading for or taking off from the Ryanair hub should check before they travel
Game 1 kicks off Friday. The first two games facing the Toronto Blue Jays will be away, with the Dodgers returning home for Games 3 and 4. Local restaurants and bars are preparing for back-to-back World Series wins by hauling in extra TVs and adding food and drink specials.
Whether you’re heading to Dodger Stadium and looking for a pre- or post-game destination or just want to be in the thick of Dodger madness, keep reading for 11 places near the stadium that are screening all of the games:
EACH Christmas, one major activity fires up the magic spirit for families – festive train fun.
With November just one week away, family members are most likely going to begin nudging you for things to do together over the festive period – and what is a more perfect way to spend time with the family than a Christmas train experience!
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There are a number of different Christmas train experiences in the UK including The Polar Express (pictured)Credit: National Holidays
Here are some of the top Christmas train experiences across the UK.
The Polar Express
Perhaps one of the most iconic Christmas train experiences is The Polar Express, which runs in a number of locations across the country including Birmingham, London and south Devon.
Inspired by the iconic film, passengers get to head on board with a Golden Ticket to meet Santa, whilst enjoying entertainment, music and even dancing chefs.
Trips depart from across the country and tickets prices vary depending on date and location, but can usually be found as low as £27 per person.
Santa Steam Express
The Santa Steam Express heads off from London Victoria Station and features an interactive storytelling theatre experience whilst on the journey.
Passengers will also get to meet Santa and his elves.
The experience runs on December 20 and December 22, with four departures each day.
The experience then lasts around 90 minutes, taking passengers through London’s suburbs.
All children get to meet Santa, who will deliver them a traditional gift and they will also receive a snack and drink.
The North Yorkshire Moors Railway will be running a Christmas journey through the North York Moors National ParkCredit: Instagram
Parents aren’t left out though, as they will be able to have tea or coffee and a mince pie.
There are a range of different classes on board the train that vary in price.
For example, Coach Class costs from £55 per person, Club Class from £75 per person and Private Compartments available from £600 each, for up to six guests.
Christmas North Yorkshire Pullman
On board the North Yorkshire Pullman, passengers get to journey through the North York Moors National Park.
Each guest will enjoy a three-course meal, with tea and coffee, as well as a mince pie.
Trips take place from November 25 to January 4, departing and returning to Grosmont Station.
Seats cost from £99 per person.
Christmas Afternoon Tea on the Great Western Saloon
For an afternoon treat, opt for the Great Western Saloon, which departs from Grosmont in North Yorkshire.
The train travels along the heritage line and as it does, passengers get to enjoy a range of sandwiches, other savoury nibbles and sweet treats.
The experience will be running on November 27 and December 4, 11 and 18.
Tickets cost £85 per person and the experience is for those aged 16 and over.
South Devon Railway will be running All Aboard for Festive Dining, with a Festive Ploughman’s LunchCredit: Supplied
All Aboard for Festive Dining
Down in Devon, the South Devon Railway is running the ‘All Aboard for Festive Dining’ experience.
Dubbed to be “one of Britain’s most nostalgic rail journeys”, passengers will be able to see the stunning Dart Valley scenery as well as hear the chugs of the steam engine.
Passengers can choose from four different experiences.
In the 1950s Restaurant Car, guests can enjoy a Festive Ploughman’s Lunch with local cheeses, chutneys and bread, or opt for Festive Afternoon Tea instead.
Alternatively, head to the 1925 Pullman Car ‘Lydia’ for a spot of luxury dining in Winston Churchill‘s former dining carriage.
In this carriage, guests can have a Pullman Festive Afternoon Tea or the Pullman Christmas Lunch.
The festive dining experiences run throughout December, costing from £69.95 per person.
One The Kent & East Sussex Railway, there is a Santa Special experience that lasts 75 minutes and each passenger gets a giftCredit: kesr.org
Kent & East Sussex Railway (K&ESR) Santa Specials
The Kent & East Sussex Railway will feature Santa Specials this festive period.
The experience lasts 75 minutes, and passengers get to have gifts hand delivered by Santa.
On board, there are also a number of family photo opportunities and complimentary hot drinks (which includes mulled wine for adults).
You also get entry to the Winter Wonderland marquee and unlimited rides on the vintage gallopers at Tenterden Town Station.
With the Bronze package, passengers get a complimentary refreshment pack, containing a mince pie for each adult and a chocolate bar for each child.
Passengers in Silver and Gold class carriages then get to meet Jingle and Sparkle, Santa’s Head Elves.
There are Silver first class and Gold premium class packages as well.
The 2025 Santa Specials run every weekend from November 29 until December 21, plus December 23 and Christmas Eve.
Tickets cost from £30 per person (based on booking a table of four for £120).
On the Elf Express, passengers get to travel through the Cairngorms National ParkCredit: Severn Rail Railway
Elf Express
The Strathspey Railway travels through the Cairngorms National Park on a heritage steam train, and for the festive season there will be elves onboard with the passengers.
The train is operating on various dates from November 28 to January 4 and it costs from £34 for adults and children.
The Epping Ongar Railway Santa Specials allow people to experience a festive journey as well as meet SantaCredit: .eorailway
Epping Ongar Railway Santa Specials
Families heading on the Epping Ongar Railway Santa Specials start their journey before they reach the station.
As they can hop on a vintage London bus at Epping Underground station or in Ongar, to get to North Weald Station – and you’ll spot different festive characters will be walking around.
Then once on board, the train will head off on a return journey via Epping Forest.
The Santa Specials trains will be running on November 29 and 30 and on December 6, 7, 13, 14, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23 and 24.
Tickets start at £65 per two people.
Bluebell Railway SteamLights is another light-train experience, but this one goes through the Sussex countrysideCredit: bluebell-railway
Bluebell Railway SteamLights
The Bluebell Railway SteamLights train heads off through the Sussex countryside, with passengers able to spot festive-themed scenes along the way.
Then the train arrives at Horsted Keynes Station, with passengers able to get off and take pictures of the train which is entirely covered in lights for 30 minutes.
The train then heads back to Sheffield Park, with the experience lasting around two hours in total.
The experience is running from November 22 to December 28 and tickets start from £35 per person.
Devon claims to be home to the UK’s first ever steam train of lightsCredit: Alamy
Christmas Train of Lights
Located along Dartmouth Steam Railway in Devon is the Christmas Train of Lights – supposedly the UK’s first ever steam train of lights, according to the operator’s website.
Both a spectacle from the inside and the outside, passengers will get to experience lineside displays and a number of festive surprises throughout the journey.
They will run from November 28 to December 30.
Tickets cost £29.95 per adult and £21.95 per child.
And if you want to include your furry best friend, there is even a Santa Paws experience on the East Somerset RailwayCredit: eastsomersetrailway
East Somerset Railway Santa Paws
One for families with a much-loved pooch is the East Somerset Railway Santa Paws experience.
Four-legged friends aren’t left out of the fun on this one as you can bring them along to meet Santa.
There are lots of photo opportunities and your pooch even gets a special gift.
This city is considered a ‘hidden gem’ as it gets fewer tourists than hotspots such as Barcelona or Malaga, but it could be the perfect combination city and beach break for autumn
16:10, 24 Oct 2025Updated 16:12, 24 Oct 2025
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Murcia isn’t a well-known tourist spot (Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
Ryanair have launched a new direct flight from London Stansted to a Spanish city that has been dubbed ‘underrated’ and a ‘hidden gem’.
The budget airline will now operate a London to Murcia flight four times a week, with the journey taking just under three hours. Murcia, which is set in Spain’s southeast, just over an hour from Alicante, is a lesser-known region, but once you step off the plane you can choose to explore the city or head to the nearby coast.
The timing of the new route is perfect for those who are already a little sick of the autumn weather. This week, Murcia has seen highs of 31C, while in November it can hit up to 21C. While it’s not the hottest destination in December and January, with highs of 18C and 17C respectively during the day, it tends to be mild and have low rainfall. However, it’s worth packing cosy pyjamas, as it can get cold at night.
The city of Murcia is packed with things to do, and it’s a must for history buffs, having been settled by the Romans and the Moors. Visit Murcia Cathedral, an ornate, Gothic cathedral that dominates the skyline, or the Santa Clara Museum which was once a Muslim palace, that became a Monastery in the 14th-century.
You’ll also find a wide variety of museums, such as the Museo Arqueológico de Murcia, which is full of treasures, and the Salzillo Museum, dedicated to the locally born sculptor Francisco Salzillo, who made dramatic religious artworks.
Murcia also has amazing shopping. The huge Centro Comercial Nueva Condomina has lots of big Spanish and European brands from Bershka to Zara, while Centro De Artesania De Murcia is full of handcrafted and artisanal items that make great gifts. It’s no wonder Murcia was dubbed ‘underrated’ by National Geographic.
Just over 20 minutes from the airport is the port city of Cartagena, famed for its Roman Amphitheatre. It’s also packed with historic sights such as the Roman Forum Museum and the Punic wall dating back to the 3rd century BC.
Cartagena is also perfect for a beach break. Visit Cala Cortina, an unspoilt beach surrounded by rugged cliffs. It has soft sands, and because it’s set in a bay, the waters are calm for swimming.
Another beach destination close to Murcia is La Manga, just over half an hour from the airport. This unique spot sits on a strip that’s 13 miles long, but only 100 metres wide, with a lagoon on one side and the Mediterranean Sea on the other. This means you’ll never struggle for a place on the long sandy beach, and pretty much all hotel rooms have either a sea or lagoon view. There’s also a large marina with lots of restaurants and boat hire if you want to take to the water.
Whether you’re planning a city break, or want to hit the beach, it’s worth considering Murcia instead of one of the bigger, more touristy Spanish cities. Despite its numerous historic attractions and close proximity to amazing beaches, Murcia only received 1.16 million visitors last year, compared to 26 million who chose Barcelona. But tourist numbers are on the rise, so plan your visit before it gets discovered by the crowds.
Book it
There are direct flights to Murcia from several UK airports available this October from £15.
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It is not yet clear how many passengers have been affected
A massive airline system failure has left thousands of travellers facing lengthy delays. Alaska Airlines called for a temporary ground stop early on Friday morning (October 24) which resulted in at least 229 flights being axed.
The number of passengers – including Britons – who may have been delayed or impacted remains unclear. Horizon Air, a subsidiary of Alaska Airlines, was also hit by the disruption. Flight operations have now resumed.
The carrier emphasised that safety was never compromised during the breakdown, which stemmed from a malfunction at the airline’s primary data centre. Matas Cenys, head of product at Saily, explained that even small technical faults can paralyse vital processes, creating chaos for travellers.
They explained: “Airlines today operate on highly interconnected digital systems. When one system fails, the effects can spread across the entire network, grounding flights and disrupting operations. This is why Alaska Airlines’ recent outage, while labeled a ‘technical error’, caused widespread cancellations and delays. Even minor glitches can freeze critical processes because redundancy systems are not always perfect.
“Airlines’ digital systems are like a row of dominoes. Each system – scheduling, crew assignments, baggage, gates – depends on the one before it. If a single one falls, even from something small, like a database error, it can trigger a chain reaction that stops the whole operation. Most passengers never see these links, but that’s how flights keep running on time.
“There’s also a cybersecurity overlap. Even when outages are accidental, system downtime can create potential opportunities for attackers to exploit vulnerabilities. During a disruption, normal safeguards and monitoring may be reduced or delayed, allowing malicious actors to target systems before defences are fully restored.
“Travel runs on trust that systems will work, flights will depart, and bags will arrive. Every outage chips away that confidence. Rebuilding it will require transparency and visible investment in resilience.
“Every outage has a huge human cost. Travelers get stranded in airports, tired and nervous, and airport workers have to operate under stress trying to manage the chaos. This incident should serve as a reminder to the entire travel and tech industry to reassess and reinforce their IT systems.”
A content creator and her friends were impressed by the palatial decor when they visited a café often praised as ‘the most beautiful in the world’, but there was one drawback
15:22, 24 Oct 2025Updated 15:30, 24 Oct 2025
A content creator has complained about the price of water in an expensive hotel (stock)(Image: Getty)
A content creator who went to one of the most beautiful cafés in the world loved her experience at the famous venue, but couldn’t believe the prices on the menu, especially after discovering how much a bottle of water would set her back.
Posting her financial ordeal on TikTok, Claudia Sierra and her friends revealed to her 45,000 followers on the platform the eye-popping price tags at the New York Café in the Antara New York Palace Hotel, Budapest.
The café is considered one of the most historic and luxurious cafés in the world and is beloved for its interior decoration, featuring chandeliers and frescoes. It was also a meeting point for Hungarian artists.
Discussing what she observed before she went in, Claudia said of the stunning restaurant: “Look at the coffee shop where we stopped for a cup of coffee. They can take my ribs out right here, I don’t care.
“All I see is people flipping through the menu on repeat, trying to find something reasonably priced.”
Upon flicking through the menu themselves, Claudia and her friends became shocked when they saw how much a bottle of San Pellegrino water cost, €12.50 (£10.91), a figure reflected in an online version of the menu.
A friend of Claudia’s said: “The water bottle costs 12.50 euros.”
Instead, the group opted for tap water to save a little bit of money.
Another friend added: “Oh, we’re going to have such a good breakfast! I’m crying. Thank goodness they gave us a little bit of tap water to wash down the biscuit.”
The water isn’t the only pricey item on the menu, with a cappuccino costing €11 (£9.59) and grilled ham and cheese sandwiches with sour cream flavoured salad priced at €16 (£13.95).
Claudia and her friends aren’t the first people to note how high prices can be in popular restaurants. Luxurious eateries have long been alluring for the experience of being in them, and being able to say you’ve visited.
Earlier this year, another content creator visited Sushi Kanesaka at 45 Park Lane in London, a venue which has just 13 seats at the sushi counter and is one of the UK’s most expensive restaurants.
The restaurant, which launched in 2023 and was masterminded by Shinji Kanesaka, charges around £420 per person for its set menu. So impressive is the experience, that one visitor described it as ethereal.
They wrote on Google: “The most amazing sushi I’ve ever had outside Japan. Awesome food, service and atmosphere. Only 13 sushi bar seats in entire restaurant, 9 in main and a more private 4 seater. Pricey but ethereal.”
On the expense, one diner wrote: “Yes it is expensive, however the experience is extremely intimate with only a few small sittings each night. Further to this the ingredients used are absolutely the best on offer.
“I have honestly never been served a blue lobster and the Kobe beef was certainly as good as the best wagu I have previously tried in Japan.
“The whole team was extremely professional and very attentive. The Sake pairing was again exceptional with the sommelier describing each in amazing detail.”
SPAIN is usually just a short flight from the UK, but there’s one city further afield and is actually closer to Morocco than the Spanish mainland.
The small coastal city has plenty of historical sites, beaches and a mythically-inspired building.
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Ceuta is a small Spanish city that actually borders MoroccoCredit: AlamyIt has its very own House of the Dragons with statues of the creature up on the roofCredit: Getty
The city is called Ceuta, and doesn’t tend attract Brits, instead visitors tend to be Spanish and Moroccan thanks to where it sits in North Africa.
But there’s plenty to see, including one popular attraction called House of the Dragons, akaCasa de los Dragones, which sits on the corner of Kings Square.
Construction on the building started in 1897 and was completed in 1905, it got its name thanks to the four bronze dragon statues on the roof.
The original dragons were removed in 1925 and lost, but four new dragons were later added in 2006, these are made of resin andfiberglass– they weigh less than 200kg each.
There’s a similar building in the town ofValencia,which is called theBuilding of the Dragons.
The Valencia house incorporates dragons too, but more subtly.
Despite its proximity to Morocco, the official currency in Ceuta is theEuro,as it’s a Spanish city.
Visitors can expect to pay about €2.50 to €3 (£2.62) for a local beer and around €15 (£13.08) per person for a “menu del día” – which is a set Spanish menu.
Ceuta has beaches like Playa del Chorrillo, which is close to the Strait of Gibraltar and has pretty scenic views.
The dragons on top of the building were added in 2006 – and are made out of fiberglassCredit: GettyThanks to its location, visitors to Ceuta can easily visit MoroccoCredit: Alamy
The city has cobbled streets, historic buildings, and cultural landmarks likeRoyal Walls of Ceuta, also called Murallas Reales de Ceuta,a historic fort dating back to 962 AD.
Another popular site is the Ceuta Cathedral, a yellow-and-white cathedral overlooking Plaza de África.
As Ceuta is in North Africa, it’s convenient to explore Morocco too.
About an hour away by car is the seaside city of Tangier city is at the very tip of Morocco and on a clear day, you can even see Spain across the Strait of Gibraltar.
Tangier has been a major trade centre for thousands of years thanks to its location and busy port.
Visitors can learn about its interesting history with a guided tour, and wander through Kasbah, the walled part of the city full of tiny streets and alleys.
For Brits, the best way to visit Ceuta is to fly to a Spanish mainland airport like Malaga or Algeciras, then take a car or bus to Algeciras port, and finally a ferry to Ceuta.
One UK tourist attraction has been named the spookiest tourist attraction in Europe
Isobel Pankhurst Audience Writer
15:14, 24 Oct 2025
One UK city is home to Europe’s spookiest destination (Image: Getty)
For those keen to inject some spine-chilling thrills into their next holiday, Europe offers countless eerie destinations to explore. Yet the most bone-chilling spot of all might be right on our doorstep.
Norwegian Air has declared the Edinburgh Vaults in Scotland as Europe’s most terrifying tourist attraction. These underground chambers were carved out within the nineteen arches of Edinburgh’s South Bridge.
Initially serving as storage facilities for South Bridge businesses from 1788, this purpose proved short-lived. During the Industrial Revolution, they transformed into overcrowded slum dwellings, with cramped rooms sheltering families of up to ten people.
The vaults eventually earned notoriety as one of the city’s most perilous areas, becoming a breeding ground for criminal enterprises.
Underground spaces were converted into illicit gambling establishments and bootleg whisky operations. Sinister tales even suggested that body snatchers would temporarily store cadavers in certain vaults overnight.
Given this grim and shadowy past, it comes as little surprise that the Edinburgh Vaults are reportedly haunted. Spectral encounters include phantom children who grasp visitors’ hands during tours, and the infamous ‘Mr. Boots’, whose thunderous footsteps occasionally reverberate throughout the chambers.
One TripAdvisor reviewer shared their experience: “Had a wonderful time exploring. Worth booking in advance. Very interesting to learn new things. Unfortunately I can’t remember the young ladies name who lead us but she was amazing and very knowledgeable.”
Another added: “We had the most amazing tour thanks to our guide, Kieran. It was just myself and my partner on our tour, but that didn’t phase our guide! He struck the right balance between scary/paranormal stories and the dark historical past of the vaults. If you’re coming to Edinburgh, carve out an hour to go on this tour, it was my favourite thing we’d done on this holiday!”
Meanwhile, a third wrote: “Great tour with a fantastic tour guide Aimee who was very informative & comical. Really interesting to learn about the history of the underground vaults.”
Coming in second place amongst Europe’s most spine-chilling destinations was Portugal’s Capela dos Ossos, or Chapel of Bones, whilst third place was claimed by Lithuania’s haunting Hill of Crosses.
The Edinburgh Vaults weren’t the sole UK location to feature on the list, with the Tower of London, another notoriously ghostly site, securing fifth position.
IT’S all change for tour operator TUI, which will operate flights for certain package holidays through a third-party rather than its own airline.
Nextsummer, TUI will fly holidaymakers to its destinations using other airlines like easyJet and Sun Express.
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Passengers flying with TUI for a package holiday might not be on one of its aircraftCredit: AlamyOne of the routes that will change is from Manchester to FaroCredit: Alamy
According to reports, TUI is dropping its direct flights from Manchester to Portugal‘s Faro and Bodrum in Turkey.
On TUI’s website, Sun Travel found that direct flights between Manchester and Faro can’t be booked after April 19, 2026 – with only four other flights available between now and then.
The routes won’t be scrapped entirely though as these are routes are available with a package holiday deal and will be operated through a third-party airline.
On its website, TUI is offering packages from Manchester to Portugal throughout the year and into 2026 with direct flights from easyJet.
Package holidays from Manchester to Bodrum with TUI can be booked from May 2026 with flights from Sun Express.
Flights from regional airport Birmingham and Gatwick to Faro for next summer will also be operated by third-party airlines.
As a result TUI said it will be putting more capacity into destinations including Balearics, Italy, Greece and Croatia, with TUI Airlines.
Sun Travel has contacted TUI for comment.
In March, TUI Group CEO Sebastian Ebel said in an interview with the Financial Times that the it planned to sell more seats on other airlines, including Ryanair and easyJet in order to “generate growth”.
Earlier this year, the tour operator completely scrapped its flights from the UK to Costa Rica, St Lucia and Orlando.
You can still book a package holiday with TUI and fly from Manchester to BodrumCredit: Alamy
Edinburgh is a stunning city at any time of year, but it’s said to be particularly beautiful during autumn when the leaves turn into shades of yellow, orange, and red.
The city comes alive in autumn(Image: Andrew Merry via Getty Images)
One travel blogger on Ourcrossings described the city as “beautiful” throughout the year, but particularly stunning during autumn.
There’s reportedly an “extra dose of magic” as foliage transforms into hues of yellow, orange, and red.
The blogger observed: “With colourful leaves framing its every corner, Edinburgh turns into an autumnal dreamland that feels like a world away from the rest of Europe.”
Edinburgh presents a magnificent sight, positioned against the majestic Castle backdrop, and boasts numerous parks for visitors to explore.
Key locations include Princes Street Gardens, where you can stroll towards attractions such as the Scott Monument, Ross Fountain, and the National Museum of Scotland, reports the Express.
Additionally, there’s the Royal Botanic Garden, the adjacent Inverleith Park – merely a three-minute stroll away – and Edinburgh Old Town.
“The Old Town is home to some of Edinburgh’s biggest and best attractions,” highlighted Forever Edinburgh.
Renowned landmarks feature Edinburgh Castle, St Giles’ Cathedral, and the Palace of Holyroodhouse.
The Palace serves as the official Royal Residence in Edinburgh where guests can view Mary Queen of Scots’ bedchamber.
Edinburgh has also gained recognition for its guided walks, allowing you to discover stories from historical periods whilst becoming familiar with the ancient city.
Forever Edinburgh suggests Mercy Tours to uncover stories of murder and mystery along the cobblestone streets.
For those who fancy a bit of exploration, GuruWalk’s free walking tours allow you to hop-on and hop-off at various intriguing spots.
Not to mention, the Scottish capital is brimming with snug pubs, delightful eateries and shops just waiting to be discovered.
WHO can say no to a Wetherspoons? And what if I told you the smallest one in the world is just as good as the rest, if not better.
Not only is it the smallest Spoons, but it is also in a rather bizarre location – a train station.
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I visited the worlds smallest spoons – it felt like being in an airportCredit: Cyann Fielding
Of course, some UK airports have Wetherspoons, but I have never come across one in a train station before.
Sat at one end of Cannon Street Station in London, you will find the Sir John Hawkshaw, complete with just 42 tables.
Whilst that might sound a lot, compared to the usual London Spoons, this is considerably less.
And the obscurities about this spot just continue – if you need to use the toilet, well then you’ll need to head to the other end of the station and down a set of stairs.
I tested out the journey myself, and it took me around one minute (no good if you’re desperate!).
For those who love to train spot, sit outside on the terrace, which is essentially like sitting on one of the platforms.
The boozer opened back in 2014 and is named after one of the co-designers of the original station building, which first opened in 1866.
Inside, it does have a more cosy feel than most Wetherspoons pubs I have visited.
With Halloween fast approaching, the interior was decked out with cobwebs and pumpkins.
But keen to experience the pub-slash-train-station experience, I opted for a table on the terrace to enjoy my nachos.
Despite its small size, the pub still features Spoons’ extensive menu and the service isn’t impacted either.
To learn more about the pub, look for a blue plaque on the veranda.
It states: “The station had eight platforms under a single span arch roof.
“Far below the station are the remains of a Roman palace, built in the first century.”
At another point, the ‘Steelyard’ was used by German and Flemish merchants.
However, in 1666, it was then destroyed during the Great Fire of London.
A quarter of a century later, and the Company of Plumbers built their Livery Hall on the site, which remained there until the 1860s.
I sat peacefully enjoying my chips, nachos, chicken strips and raspberry lemonade, coming to a grand total of £18.
Whilst eating I noticed how the pub also has a unique soundtrack – clinking glasses mixed with the clack-clack of trains running over metal rails.
In all, I found myself feeling like I was in a quiet bubble in the middle of the hustle and bustle of commuters and tourists.
It felt as if I was in an airport, enjoying a drink whilst people watching – but with no pressure that I was going to miss my flight.
For the tired and sore commuter, this spot is ideal for a post meeting drink, before hopping on a Southeastern train home.
And of course, in typical Spoons style, your pocket won’t be stretched either.
Whilst to most, this may feel like another typical Wetherspoons spot, it somehow manages to fit all the character you get with Spoons into a small venue.
SOME of the prettiest Wetherspoons pubs can be found in old cinemas and even bingo halls – here are the top spots…
Opera House, Royal Tunbridge Wells: The former opera house in Royal Tunbridge Wells first opened its doors to the public back in 1902.
The Winter Gardens, Harrogate: The Winter Gardens used to be part of the Royal Baths in Harrogate and provided a place where people could relax.
The Corn Exchange, Bury St Edmunds: The Grade I listed building started life as a location for merchants and Victorian farmers to trade back in 1862.
The Royal Victoria Pavilion, Ramsgate: Ramsgate’s Royal Victoria Pavilion holds the title of the world’s biggest Wetherspoons.
The Velvet Coaster, Blackpool: The pub is named after one of Blackpool’s most famous historical fairground rides, in which thrill-seekers of the past sat in velvet-lined carriages that rolled along a wooden track.
The Caley Picture House, Edinburgh: The art-deco insides of the Caley Picture House in Edinburgh make it look like like it could feature in the Great Gatsby.
The Palladium, Llandudno: The Palladium in Llandudno, in North Wales, is another Wetherspoons that used to be a cinema.
The Counting House, Glasgow: The ex-Bank of Scotland building was designed in the Italian Renaissance style and visitors can even have a drink in its underground vault.
Hamilton Hall, London: Outside of London’s Liverpool Street Station is Hamilton Hall, which at one stage was a ballroom in the Great Eastern Hotel.
The Knights Templar, London: Elsewhere in London, The Knights Templar can be found inside a former Union Bank building.
A union secretary said they wanted to send the message that “there’s no room for more people here during the high season” and that the tax was intended as a deterrent for potential visitors
More than two million Brits visit Majorca each year(Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
Brits planning a break in the Balearic Islands next summer have been warned they could face a tourist tax hike.
The CCOO, a major trade union on the Spanish islands, have proposed hiking the current tourist tax to €15 a day (approximately £13.08). This would affect Brits visiting holiday hotspots such as Majorca, Ibiza, and Menorca. The proposed tax would apply for stays during July and August, the busiest months on the Mediterranean islands.
The Balearic Islands already have a tourist tax in place, which is between €0.5 and €4 a day (approximately £0.44 and £3.49). The amount of tax paid depends on whether tourists visit during the peak or low season, and the type of accommodation they stay in.
Children under 16 are exempt from paying the current tourist tax, and there’s a 50% discount for longer stays, which is applied after the eighth night. According to the government of the islands, this tax is used for purposes such as sustainable tourism initiatives and preserving cultural heritage.
The proposed increase would mean a seven night break in peak season would see each adult charged approximately £91.52 in tourist taxes.
The CCOO made clear that the higher tax being proposed wasn’t for the benefit of the islands, but rather to keep people away. According to Majorca Daily News, General Secretary José Luis García said: “This is not an increase aimed at raising revenue, but rather a deterrent, so that the Balearic Islands send a clear message to the world that there’s no room for more people here during the high season.”
He added: “To reduce summer overcrowding, it’s not enough to curb demand; we must also act on supply.”
The news outlet also reported that the CCOO is asking the government to put a hold on new tourist accommodation places, aiming to cut visitor numbers but attract higher-value tourists. Due to the housing crisis in the Balearics, they also want the island declared a “stressed area” and for 40,000 public housing properties to be created.
The move is the latest in a long line of proposals aimed at reducing the pressure of tourism on the popular Balearic Islands. Over the summer, Majorca was named the most unwelcoming spot for British tourists in Europe, with anti-tourism protests cited among the reasons for the dubious honour.
Summer 2024 and 2025 were marked with protests across the islands, but especially in Majorca, where protestors occupied beaches while waving anti-tourist banners. A number of Mirror readers revealed they’d be ditching Spain due to the protests and what they dubbed “anti-British sentiment”.
Speaking to the Mirror over the summer, Kevin Durkin who visited various Spanish destinations over 30 years said: “Over the last few years, the anti-British sentiment has just grown. Some bar owners have put up signs telling the British to keep away and some hotel owners don’t want us either.
“I do not need Spain, they can keep their latest charges and hatred of the British. I will not be back, neither will my friends or family. Adios.”
While Linda Munro revealed that overcrowding at border control at the airport had made her summer trip to Majorca stressful: “My husband and I got through the scanners, no problem. However, the rest of the family had to queue for an hour and a half.
“On the way back, it was worse, as people were worried they might miss their flights home. Our family just made it on time. They all said they wouldn’t be back abroad anytime soon.”
Rail buffs and historians getting up early on Sunday to see first new railway station to open for 100 years
The new Beaulieu Park station – first one to open for 100 years
Railway historians and fanatics will flock to a town in Essex at 7am on Sunday morning to see the first new train station on the Eastern main line for 100 years.
Beaulieu Park is the first station to open on this part of the UK network since the 1920s. And rail chiefs are expecting a huge amount of interest from trainspotters and rail buffs alike.
And already some excited passengers have bought their tickets for the Colchester to London Liverpool St train to be part of history when it stops at the new station.
Andy Cross, 47, said: “I just want to be part of history. It will be great arriving at the first station on the Eastern mainline in such a long time. I’m sure there will be lots of photographers at Beaulieu Park to capture the moment.”
The station is part of a new super green initiative project near Chelmsford. Martin Beable, Greater Anglia’s Managing Director, said: “We are really looking forward to the opening of Beaulieu Park station, the first new station on the Great Eastern Main Line in over 100 years.
“Beaulieu Park station will benefit from a regular and reliable service of up to four trains per hour during peak times and two trains per hour during off peak periods, making rail travel simple and convenient for passengers.”
Councillor Louise McKinlay, Deputy Leader at Essex County Council, said: “Essex is pioneering the type of infrastructure-supported growth that’s on the national agenda, being bold and ambitious in our commitment to future-proofing the county and putting investment where it’s most needed.
“The new Beaulieu Park station is testament to this, and the role it will play in transforming travel in this part of Chelmsford and surrounding areas will have a positive impact for years to come.
“The progress being made to build the station is remarkable and I want to thank everyone involved for their hard work to get the project to this stage. I’m very much looking forward to the station opening.”
The new station is set to transform travel north of Chelmsford as it will eases pressure on the existing busy Chelmsford train station and reduces car journeys into the city centre.
The station is planned to be a significant addition to the Beaulieu and Channels neighbourhoods in the north of the city, which form the first phases of the new Chelmsford Garden Community.
4,350 homes already have planning permission as part of the Garden Community. This includes 1,989 new homes which have already been built, along with the Beaulieu Square Neighbourhood Centre providing local shops, community and health services.
This is in addition to the Beaulieu Park School – the first all-through primary and secondary school in Essex.
Beaulieu Park Station will provide easier and quicker access to jobs, helping the economic development of the area and encouraging further investment.
Beable added: “We expect the new station to be a very attractive and popular option for travellers from that part of Essex.”
WHEN it comes to a real-life paradise, the closest you’ll probably get to it is the Caribbean.
And there’s one destination that’s seeing more tourists than ever which is developing new hotels so visitors can enjoy the hot weather and beautiful beaches.
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St Vincent and the Grenadines has both white and black sand beachesCredit: AlamySt Vincent is home to La Soufriere, an huge active volcanoCredit: Alamy
St Vincent and the Grenadines is the fastest-growing tourism destination in the Caribbean with 17.3 percent more visitors in the first half of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024.
Jamaica and Barbados are the Caribbean islands most visited by Brits – but St Vincent and the Grenadines has the potential to be your next holiday spot.
You can get there by flying to Argyle International Airport on St Vincent – and then, from there you can explore the 32 islands and cays.
The country’s capital is Kingstown in St Vincent, where visitors explore historical sites like Fort Charlotte and the Gothic cathedrals.
The capital has Botanical Gardens, waterfalls, and plenty of opportunities to try out water activities like boat tours, snorkelling, and diving.
The waters have plenty of marine life like whales, dolphins, green sea turtles and lots of reef fish.
Of course being an island, St Vincent has some incredible beaches from Indian Bay, Villa Beach and Mt. Wynne Beach – which has volcanic black sand.
St Vincent is home to the country’s largest volcano called La Soufrière.
Most read in Beach holidays
It’s active too, with the last explosive events happening in 2021.
The island has rainforests as well and visitors can hike through theVermont Nature Trailand theCumberland Forest Reserve.
St Vincent and the Grenadines was used as a filming location for Pirates of the CaribbeanCredit: AlamyPalm Island has pretty white-sand beaches with bright blue watersCredit: Alamy
The island country is a great for fans of the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise which was filmed across its beaches and rainforest.
St Vincent and the Grenadines is one of the best spots for winter sun, as throughout the whole year the temperature averages between 24-27C.
The rainy season runs from June through November, with the wettest months typically being October and November.
The island country consists of eight other inhabited islands; Young Island,Bequia,Mustique,Canouan,Union Island,Mayreau, Petit St Vincent and Palm Island.
To get to the other most popular islands, visitors can use ferries or take regional flights.
Here you’ll find white-sand beaches and plenty more swimming spots in the bright blue Caribbean sea.
To accommodate the increasing number of visitors in St Vincent and the Grenadines, there are four new projects across the islands and all are set to open by 2027.
The first is called Peter’s Hope Resort Development Project, which is a 280-room beachfront Marriott Autograph Collection hotel.
Another is the Beaches St. Vincent and the Grenadines which will be a 360-room resort focusing on families that will be built at Mt. Wynne.
The Palm Island Development is a new project with phase one scheduled to open in December 2026.
And the Cumberland Bay Resort Development Project will be a 150-room beachfront resort set to have pretty overwater bungalows, cottages, a hotel and small marina.
Virgin Atlantic connects St. Vincent with a stopover at the neighbouring island of Barbados taking around 11 hours.
You can fly from London Heathrow to St Vincent with return fares from £574.92.
This island in St Vincent and the Grenadines is known as ‘turtle island’…
CANOUAN sits between St Vincent and Grenada, and it’s one of the smallest measuring at three square miles and has a population of around 2,000.
Known for its abundance of turtles, tortoises and beautiful beaches, the little-known island doesn’t get many tourists, which means it’s a hotspot for celebs.
Thanks to it being lesser-known, the island of Canouan has been known to be a popular Caribbean spot for celebrities.
Another reason for its popularity amongst the famous is the amount of luxury resorts there – and the fact that they all allow use of the ‘invisible key’, which means you can use facilities across all of them.
The island is known for being peaceful and quiet, but is rising in popularity amongst travellers.
It has a nickname too, Canouan is sometimes referred to as ‘Turtle Island’.
As you might have guessed this is because the island is a natural sanctuary for green sea turtles which swim off the coast.
During the months of May and October, the turtles hatch along the beach, so if you stick around until dawn, you might spot tiny hatchlings make their way from the sand to the sea.
In Tallinn, Estonia, you will find the most beautiful Christmas market in the world
Chloe Dobinson and Christopher Megrath
11:06, 24 Oct 2025Updated 11:06, 24 Oct 2025
Tallinn Christmas market is a sight to behold(Image: heinstirred via Getty Images)
Last Christmas, Life reporter Christopher Megrath opted to forgo the typical British yuletide markets and venture to a less frequented European destination steeped in history. Christopher is chuffed he did because the Old Town Christmas market in Tallinn, Estonia, was hands down the most stunning one he has ever seen.
Unlike its renowned Christmas market competitors in cities like Vienna, Cologne, or Salzburg, Tallinn’s market is humble in size. He had never heard it brought up in chats about Christmas markets, nor did he know anyone who had even set foot in the country, yet what it lacks in global recognition it more than compensates for with its captivating setting, snug atmosphere and magical allure.
The Tallinn Christmas Market is nestled in the Town Hall Square. At its heart is the Christmas tree, which holds the title of the most significant Christmas tree in Estonia and has been erected in Town Hall Square since 1441, making it the first Christmas tree ever to be showcased in Europe.
The Town Square is relatively compact – you could stroll from one side to the other in a brisk minute. Christopher managed to clock up more than an hour during his visit thanks to the plethora of stalls, live music and scrumptious food on offer.
Just like a scene out of a film, snow gently started to fall and accumulate on the ground throughout the day. The warm glow of lights draped across the square felt snug in an otherwise frosty wonderland, with the 15th-century Town Hall Tower dominating the backdrop of every snapshot, reports the Liverpool Echo.
The Christmas market has everything you could possibly want – handcrafted baubles, sweet delights like chocolate and toffee, tree ornaments and cosy winter wear like hats, scarves and gloves. As per his personal tradition, Christopher made sure to bring back a good assortment of knick-knacks for his foreign holiday memento collection, including a miniature cathedral and town hall for around €20.
You don’t have to go far for some genuine Estonian grub, as Christopher managed to get verivorst (blood sausage) without even leaving the square. Although it’s not something he would recommend, there’s a vast array of truffles, gingerbread and sweets to indulge in if you’re more inclined towards sugary treats.
After several rounds of the market in search of new finds, Christopher found myself settling on the designated sideline benches with a hot cup of glögg – the Estonian term for mulled wine. A stage was erected at the front of the square where children performed and music filled the afternoon, contributing to an already festive atmosphere.
Christopher couldn’t fathom how picture-perfect the Christmas market was until he witnessed it firsthand. The quintessential depiction of the winter experience is brought to life by Tallinn, from the scenic setting to the festive food, drink and goods available.
The gentle snowfall throughout the day felt like it could’ve been a hired actor at this point.
Moreover, once you’ve had your fill of the market, there’s a wealth of attractions in the surrounding area. You’ll find yourself amidst contemporary shopping venues and eateries, ideal for a brief respite or a return to normality.
Winding cobbled streets will guide you uphill to Tallinn’s Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, an Eastern Orthodox marvel where visitors can glimpse its breathtaking interior. The UNESCO World Heritage site is home to a plethora of hidden treasures if you’re up for the hunt, such as Maiasmokk, Tallinn’s oldest café dating back to 1864, and Pierre Chocolaterie nestled in the secluded Masters’ Courtyard.
Christopher would suggest simply losing yourself in the labyrinthine streets and secret pathways, allowing them to lead you to ancient castle walls and stunning town vistas.
If you’re on the hunt for a unique Christmas experience that still retains the holiday spirit, a trip to Tallinn’s Old Town Christmas market won’t disappoint.
Return flights to Tallinn from Manchester Airport are available for approximately £217, with a stopover in Helsinki en route. However, during his own visit, Christopher opted to stay in the Finnish capital and took a same-day return ferry to Tallinn for around €40, creating a relatively laid-back excursion that combined two holidays in one.
Hull was once mocked and named the worst place to live in the UK. However, it has now been included on the Naitonal Geographic’s best place to visit – the only UK destination to get the nod
Milo Boyd Digital Travel Reporter and Samantha Teasdale
10:53, 24 Oct 2025Updated 10:54, 24 Oct 2025
Hull has been recognised as an excellent place to visit(Image: CHUNYIP WONG via Getty Images)
A UK city that has long been the butt of the public’s jokes has been named one of the best places in the world to visit.
When I lived in York, which is just 37 miles away across Yorkshire, the snobbery directed towards the city of 267,000 was rife and rarely concealed. Many of the jokes came from those who had never visited Hull. Had they taken the time to hop on a train and made the hour-long journey from North to East Yorkshire, I’m sure their eyes would’ve been opened.
Back in 2003, an extremely well-publicised hardback book proclaimed Hull the UK’s most awful hellhole. The Idler Book Of Crap Towns: The 50 Worst Places To Live In The UK wrote of the town: “No matter what happens to me in later life, no matter where I live, or how bad things are, I will know that it can never, ever be as bad as living in Hull”
Writing in National Geographic, Lorna Parkes explains quite how wrong some people are when it comes to Hull, and some of the joys that await those yet to visit.
“At the edge of the North Sea, Hull was one of the world’s busiest whaling ports in the 19th century and a fishing and shipping hub until the 20th, before falling on hard times. Over the past decade, the city has undergone significant revitalization,” she writes.
“Warehouses around Humber Street’s old waterside Fruit Market are now lively independent bars, restaurants, and art galleries. There’s also a spectacular performance amphitheatre, called Stage@TheDock, overlooking River Hull where it meets the Humber Estuary; and a former shipyard has for over 20 years been the base for The Deep, one of the United Kingdom’s most highly respected aquariums and marine conservation centres.”
There are good things on the horizon for Hull. Next year, a £40 million project to promote Hull’s maritime heritage wraps up. A network of new interpretive sites aims to bring 800 years of seafaring history to life. Among them are the Hull Maritime Museum, the North End Shipyard two-storey visitors centre, and two permanently docked museum ships: the 1960s Arctic Corsair cod trawler and the Spurn lightship.
A new Maritime Heritage Trail now winds through the city’s Georgian Old Town, which takes in new green spaces and public art inspired by the city’s ties to the sea.
The Express’s Samantha Teasdale visited Hull this summer. “Despite its notorious reputation as the ‘worst place to live’, I found myself pleasantly surprised by the charm of Hull,” she wrote.
“As I meandered through the lively streets under the warm sun, cooled by a gentle breeze, I was delighted I’d made the trip. The sight of pride flags fluttering on numerous buildings added to the allure. The streets were buzzing with chatter, but it wasn’t until I heard the popping of prosecco bottles that I realised why the area was so bustling.
“Graduates in their gowns and hats filled every pub, restaurant, and street corner. Memories of my own graduation brought a smile to my face.”
Samantha’s favourite part of the city was the marina. “There, I unearthed a treasure trove of hidden gems – quaint cafés, charming restaurants and other businesses that you wouldn’t stumble upon unless you dared to venture past the construction works,” she continued.
“Happily perched on a bench by the marina, next to the aquarium, I found myself gazing out at the sea and musing over how Hull seemed rather delightful. Could it really be such a dreadful place to reside?
“Hull has a lot to offer, and while I may not have ventured into the ‘rough parts’, I believe it’s a city that is often misunderstood and is striving to reinvent itself. I’m eager to return.”
Stanton in Tewkesbury Borough, Gloucestershire, is a quintessential English village with thatched cottages, an ancient church and a stunning manor house
All of the homes are built out of Cotswolds stone(Image: Getty)
Stepping into Stanton in Tewkesbury Borough, Gloucestershire conjures up images of a quintessential English countryside village.
The settlement sits on the edge of the Cotswolds Hills, roughly three miles southwest of Broadway in the adjacent county of Worcestershire.
Whilst Stanton officially lies within Gloucestershire boundaries, it’s frequently mistakenly assigned to Worcestershire since Broadway serves as its postal town.
The village also neighbours Stanway, Gloucestershire, which houses the notable Stanway estate.
The Cotswold Way passes directly through the settlement, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, reports Gloucestershire Live.
Among the village’s most striking characteristics is that nearly every dwelling is constructed from traditional Cotswold stone.
The Mount pub serves as the village’s main hub, positioned at the terminus of the high street.
Pevsner described it as ‘architecturally, the most distinguished of the smaller villages in the North Cotswolds’.
Additional notable structures include St Michael’s Church, with origins tracing back to Norman times, Stanton Court (Jacobean era) and The Manor (alternatively known as “Warren House”), constructed in 1577.
The village’s heritage stretches back to the era of Kenulf, king of Mercia, who bestowed the tithes and patronage of Stanton upon Winchcombe’s Benedictine Abbey in 811.
Sir Philip Sidney Stott, an English architect, civil engineer and surveyor, is recognised for saving Stanton village from decline in 1906.
Sir Philip invested his wealth and expertise into renovating Stanton Court alongside other heritage structures. The village boasts several remarkable buildings, including Sheppey Corner.
This Grade II listed thatched cottage, constructed around 1650 and perched at the top of the High Street, is a favourite feature on Cotswolds’ calendars and postcards. Originally a large house and barn, it’s now split into three charming cottages: the Cloisters, Sheppey Cottage, and Pixie Cottage.
Cotswolds Tours recommends a visit to Stanton Court, another popular attraction. This Grade II listed Jacobean Manor House was erected for the Izod family in the early part of the 17th Century.
It later passed to their relatives, the Wynniatt family, in the early 18th Century, who expanded the house by adding a wing with a Georgian sitting room.
The Mount, aptly named, sits atop the mount at the end of the high street and serves as the village’s local pub. Its unique location offers breathtaking panoramic views across the Vale of Evesham towards the Malvern Hills.
On a clear day, you can even spot the Black Welsh mountains in the distance. It’s the perfect spot to watch the sunset on a summer’s evening, enjoy a cold beer, and have a chat with your loved ones.
