Travel Desk

EVER travelled with Ryanair and had to upgrade your fare to include more luggage? Well, you could be spending more than you need to.

Even though Ryanair is a budget airline, when it comes to booking a flight, if you want anything more than a small bag under the seat in front of you, you have to upgrade.

The same goes for if you are travelling as a group and want to sit together.

But, new findings by Which? have revealed you might actually be spending more money when you upgrade your fare, instead of just booking the most basic ticket and adding the extras on afterwards.

When you are booking a flight with Ryanair, a banner often appears stating that “Regular is ideal for your trip”.

This Regular fare is different to Basic, as it includes priority boarding, carry-on luggage and free standard seat selection.

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However, on around 30 checks over the last two years, Which? found that if they had followed Ryanair‘s advice – choosing its more expensive Regular fare rather than Basic – it would have actually only been cheaper in one instance.

Every other time it would have been cheaper to book Basic and add the extras individually.

Which? also looked at 15 flights to a range of locations for travel this month and again found that only once was the Regular ticket cheaper.

Often the Regular fare was more expensive by just a pound, but sometimes it was much more.

For example, for flights for a family of four from London Stansted to Alicante, it would have cost £61 more to choose Regular rather than Basic, for exactly the same priority boarding, cabin bags and seat selection.

Flights from Manchester to Marrakesh with a Regular fare were £45.50 more.

Instead, Which? found that if you choose Basic and just add bags and seat selection yourself later in the booking process, it works out cheaper.

If a family of four choose to book the airline’s Basic fare with four cabin bags – instead of eight with the Regular fare – then they could save £163.

It is worth noting though that the Basic fare (not with the add-ons) does have strict bag rules where your bag must fit under the seat in front and cannot measure more than 40cm x 30cm x 20cm.

If your bag is bigger than this and they spot it at the gate you could face an additional fee between £46 and £60.

If you do add cabin luggage, the same strict rules apply.

Cabin luggage must measure a maximum of 55cm x 40cm x 20cm – but if it is bigger than this, you could be charged an extra £70 to £75.

People have even been caught out in the past by a zip or handle, so it is worth being within the measurements.

And this isn’t the only way to save when booking with Ryanair…

Which? claims that passengers should also ignore Ryanair’s Plus fare, where passengers get a 20kg suitcase and seat selection.

On a summer London Stansted to Malaga route, Which? found it was actually £35 cheaper for a family of four to choose Basic and add the extras later.

Last year, the airline denied that it’s cheaper to buy the Basic fare with the extras, than use its Regular or Plus fares.

Which? asked again in February 2026 and the airline said it had nothing further to add.

And as for the Family Plus option – it isn’t needed for most families.

When Which? checked the price for two adults, a teenager and a four-year-old to travel to Alicante, they found that it would be £260 extra for the Family Plus option.

Instead, if they booked a Basic ticket and added seat selection, three 10kg cabin bags and a larger, 20kg suitcase to check-in, they would’ve paid £45
less.

Ryanair’s Flexi Plus offering has a similar story.

This fare allows you to change your flight without a fee as well as the option to choose your seat, more legroom, fast track through security and two cabin bags.

Which? found that this would cost an extra £354 for a couple flying from London to Alicante; the same extras (but without the flight change allowance) bought separately would cost £186 – a saving of £168.

Other advice Which? has for passengers travelling with Ryanair is to not add the airline’s travel insurance as it is unlikely to be tailored to your needs and could be more expensive.

Similarly, passengers should not let Ryanair do their currency conversion.

When you book a flight with Ryanair, the fare will be shown in the currency of the country you are departing from.

For example, if you were heading back from Spain it would be in euros.

The airline then converts the fare into pounds, but it is often charged at a terrible exchange rate, meaning you could be paying more for your flight.

You can opt out of Ryanair’s automatic conversion rate, but it isn’t the easiest process.

After you enter your card number, a figure will appear that shows the conversion rate.

There is then a small arrow downwards, with the question: “Want to
learn more about our guaranteed exchange rate?”

If you click on the arrow, another message appears: “If you do not wish to accept the exchange rate, you can pay in the currency of the flight and have the currency converted by your Payment Service Provider.

“However, bear in mind that the rate you receive from your bank is not guaranteed and is subject to daily fluctuations, which could result in a significantly different cost for you.”

There is then also a pre-ticked box, with the message: “We recommend you do not untick the checkbox so that you receive our guaranteed exchange rate.”

Which? recommends that travellers ignore this and untick the box, leaving the exchange rate to be calculated by your bank.

Since 2017, Which? has found that the bank rate has always been better.

However, Ryanair told Which? that this claim is false and said that its currency conversion is competitive.

Another piece of advice is to consider checking in a 20kg bag, instead of taking two 10kg bags.

If you are not bothered by priority boarding, it can work out cheaper to check in one 20kg suitcase than having two 10kg hand luggage bags and priority boarding.

Which? found that this method was £3.50 cheaper on a route to Alicante in 2026.

Rory Boland, editor of Which? Travel said: “Ryanair’s low cost fares may look tempting, but make sure you have a calculator with you when you book.

“By the time you’ve paid extra for basics like cabin bags or simply sitting next to your own family, the headline price quickly unravels – and other airlines can work out cheaper.

“It pays to do your own research.”

In other aviation news, Skyscanner makes huge change to its website – offering package holidays for the first time ever.

Plus, cheap long-haul destinations to visit in 2026 with £119 flights and £8 hotels.

Ryanair has branded the cheaper travel advice ‘fake news’

Ryanair passengers are being encouraged to follow strategies to reduce their travel costs, though the airline has dismissed these suggestions as “fake news”. Consumer watchdog Which? claims its research indicates that travellers may be paying more than necessary.

According to Which?, families could potentially save upwards of £100 on their next Ryanair journey by simply disregarding the airline’s “recommended” fare option. When booking a summer getaway from London to Alicante for a family of four, Ryanair promoted its “Regular” fare as the “ideal” selection.

But opting for this would have cost £59 more than choosing the “Basic” fare and manually adding identical seats and baggage later during the booking process, Which? claims. The article goes on to say: “If our family decided that we could get by with four cabin bags instead of the eight included in Ryanair’s ‘Regular’ fare, then we could reduce the fare by £163 from Ryanair’s recommendation.”

It added: “The Regular fare comes with priority boarding, carry-on luggage and free standard seat selection included, but on around 30 checks over the past two years we’ve only once found it cheaper. We looked at 15 flights to a range of locations in February 2026 and only once was the Regular ticket cheaper, even if we wanted all those extras.”

Ryanair is not impressed. A spokesperson for the airline told Sky News: “This is more fake news from Which? Thankfully no one reads, or takes any notice of Which’s fake recycled news articles or your spurious ‘advice’, as our traffic growth from 200 million to 208 million passengers in 2025 proves.”

WALKING back from her daily shop Beth Maitland, 32, isn’t worried about traffic jams, beeping horns or the cost-of-living crisis.

She’s more concerned about a local elephant trying to steal her bag of fruit.

It’s Beth’s ‘new normal’ since fleeing Britain over twelve months ago to begin her new life in Thailand, where rent is a fifth of the price, a dinner out costs just two quid, her front garden is a beach and her backyard rice paddies overlooked by a mountain range.

Thailand is routinely voted one of the top twelve destinations for Brit tourists where the pound goes a long way.

It’s estimated 55,000 Brits, from backpackers to retirees, have chosen to bail out of Britain, trading cold, gloomy weather for the tropical paradise and beaches known as the Land of Smiles.

Relocations have soared by a staggering 255 per cent since 2018, driven by Thailand’s Long-Term Residence or LTR visa which offers 10-year residency with tax exemption.

Beth, a former NHS maternity support staffer moved from Plymouth, Devon to the island oasis of Koh Samui in southern Thailand in March last year.

Talking exclusively to The Sun, Beth revealed: “I rent a two-bedroom cottage in the jungle, there are rice fields on one side, jungle on the other and it’s 15 minutes to the beach. From the roof I can check out the surf or plan a mountain hike in the other direction.

“If I paid the price I was paying in the UK, which was £700 for a studio flat in Plymouth, I could get a four-bedroom house with five bathrooms, a pool and a garden on the island’s outskirts with elephants as neighbours.

“The first month converting pounds to Thai currency – the Baht – was a nightmare and so was finding the perfect place to live. 

“Now it’s like I have lived here all my life. I am always shocked at how cheap food, accommodation and transport is compared to Britain. 

“The cost of living is so cheap I eat out for lunch and dinner every day. I haven’t had a ready meal since I moved here.

“Everything except British food is cheaper. For the first time in a decade, I feel I have a positive future, can buy a home, and achieve my career goals.”

Millennial Beth grew up in Plymouth and loved surfing in the summer months when the weather was good enough. 

She spent the next seven years working twelve-hour shifts as a nursing home assistant in Exeter before spending six months backpacking in Australia and Asia.

“I felt inspired by the Asian culture but thought I’d never be able to work or move there.

“I came back home in December 2019 to miserable winter weather and started work as an NHS maternity support staffer.”

Brighter future

When Covid hit, Beth says she found herself re-examining her life.

“Working during lockdown for the NHS was a privilege but it took its toll. I lost friends and patients.”

When the cost-of-living crisis hit Beth felt overwhelmed by work and a feeling her future wouldn’t be the one she wanted if she stayed in Britain.

“After rent and bills were paid, I was saving no money at all. When I hit 30, I knew if I didn’t act, I’d been in the same place with no savings when I hit 40. I couldn’t let history repeat.

“The government wasn’t offering young people like me hope. My friends could only buy a house if their parents helped.

“Other friends were marrying and having children admitting that they felt the goals they wanted for their twenties were no longer possible.”

It was when two of her close friends left to become digital nomads in Thailand and Bali in January 2024 Beth was inspired to act, realising she had a choice – commit to miserable weather, rising prices and a job in the NHS which wasn’t offering career development, or take a gamble, pursue a new career and move to Asia herself.

“Many of my work colleagues were shocked,” she says. “They couldn’t comprehend moving overseas, let alone to Thailand.

“It was terrifying and exciting for me but having friends living and working there already kept me going.” 

Beth isn’t the only millennial making the life-changing decision to flee to a new country instead of settling down and concentrating on their career here.

I sometimes think I have a career and life whiplash at the speed and dramatic change which occurred

Beth

The Currencies Direct’s British Expat Report 2024 revealed nearly 40 per cent of Brits are considering moving overseas due to the cost of living while a fifth, like Beth, feel a fresh start in another culture would be beneficial for their wellbeing and mental health.

And it’s the young who are leading the great British brain drain, and more than a third of people under 24 are planning to leave Britain in the next five years. 

Dramatic change

After a tip from a friend based in Thailand, Beth applied online as a full-time travel manager running group tours.

Just two Zoom interviews later and she was offered the job and within two months was living and working in Thailand.

Beth says even she was shocked by how quickly her life changed.

“I sometimes think I have a career and life whiplash at the speed and dramatic change which occurred.”

She explains: “I used to work part-time at holiday camps during my teenage years. As a maternity support worker, I was good at helping people before, during and after labour with all ranges of problems. 

Now two weeks of every month Beth travels with 30 holiday makers, overseeing their organised tour of Thailand’s islands and regional areas.

“Imagine running a creche on wheels for people of all ages and from all different countries on their first overseas holiday. I love it,” she says. 

“There is never a dull moment. People want to know if we are there yet, where the meet up point is, what the Wi-Fi code is, if they need sunblock, can they borrow a charger and when we are stopping for food. Or the loo.

“I must be a mother, nurse and organiser. I tell people making kittens and squirrels walk in a straight line is often easier.”

Beth then gets two weeks off and either spends time at her rented cottage or using it as a base to travel to other Asian countries.

She pays £150 a month rent for the two-bedroom countryside cottage which includes her water, electricity and air conditioning, as well as use of communal pool and gym.

“There are ten cottages and it’s full of long-term Brits based here. My phone bill is £20 a month and I share it with a friend.”

Beth says she now rarely cooks because the price of food at local restaurants and roadside food carts is so cheap.

My diet has improved dramatically. I haven’t had a microwave meal since I moved here. It’s fresh fruit and vegetables every day

Beth

“I have fruit or cereal for breakfast. I eat lunch and dinner out. It costs £2 for lunch or £3 for dinner. I usually grab stir fry, curry, Thai soup or rice dishes as well as a dessert, usually a sorbet, fruit platter or ice-cream.

“My diet has improved dramatically. I haven’t had a microwave meal since I moved here. It’s fresh fruit and vegetables every day.”

Cheap living

Grocery shopping isn’t the weekly trek to the supermarket like it is in Britain.

“I go to the local markets and buy bags of fruit and fresh meat if I plan to cook, which isn’t often.

“A pint of milk costs the equivalent of 56p, a large loaf of white bread is around 90p, a dozen eggs are 90p, a half a kilo of red meat is £7, chicken is just £1.85 a kilo. Cheese is the most expensive item costing £7 to £8 for half a kilo.”

Beth admits she does miss her British staples and those that are available come at a price.

“HP sauce costs £6 a bottle, Heinz Baked Beans are an eye watering £4.50 while a Lindt chocolate bar sets you back a fiver,” she says.

“I usually grab bread, milk, some cheese and a huge bag of vegetables and fruit for a fiver. Fortunately, good quality tea bags only cost £1 for a box here.”

Beth says wine is expensive costing £12 to £15 a bottle but local beers cost £1-£1.20 for a half litre bottle and cocktails are between £2 and £3.50, depending on the spirits you choose.

“If you go to a five-star hotel you will pay more. 

“Gym membership is £22 a month and a trip to a foreign cinema is £5.60 if you are missing home.

“I had to hunt down a good cafe for a cappuccino and it costs £1.70 for a catch up with my mates. I was paying £5.60 for a posh coffee at Starbucks in the UK, I can’t believe it.”

Beth says she doesn’t need a car and uses the local car or bike service called ‘Grab’, which is similar to Uber, to book travel online.

“A bike, which means I am a pillion passenger, is 50p and a taxi is around 78p a mile.

The standard of health care is better than Britain

Beth

“When I first moved here, I refused to use the motorbike ‘cab’ – now it’s second nature.

“If you do own or rent a car it costs 96p a litre to fill up the tank. A new Toyota Corolla sedan costs on average £19k new.”

Beth says if you have children private preschool starts at £275 a month per child and the private international primary school begins at £4,500 a year.

“I was stunned by the brilliant quality of healthcare available here in Thailand. When there was no delay to see a dentist or doctor I was gobsmacked. 

“The standard of health care is better than Britain.” 

Beth recently paid £50 to see a dental hygienist and £150 for a tooth extraction and filling. Back home I’d either be forced to wait one or two years to get an NHS dentist or pay more than £500 plus for the dental work.

Dinner splurges

According to financial website livingcost.org, Britain is ranked as the 11th most expensive country in the world while Thailand is the 114th most expensive.

Beth told us: “The cost of living is a lot cheaper – from shopping, to petrol, accommodation to food.

“If my friends and I went out for a splurge dinner, that costs us around a tenner for food and drinks all night plus the cab home.”

Beth usually buys her clothes at the local market but if she wants a retail hit H&M have stores in Thailand.

“If it gets hot, I peel off a layer. It can get cold during the equivalent of the winter months, and I pop on a sweater.

“It’s the wet season that causes problems but you learn to keep umbrellas handy.”

According to Beth, Thailand is now extra popular on the backpacking must-visit list with marijuana being legalised.

I feel calmer, more centred, and less stressed living here than I did in Britain

Beth

“Holiday makers are often shocked that pot cafes exist and pot is legally sold here,” she said.

Many of my thirty-something friends are moving here because Thailand is well known for its amazing spiritual and mental health clinics and holidays.

“It’s a very spiritual country. For people in their thirties moving here often means setting up wellbeing businesses or mediation and other fitness styled retreats.

“I feel calmer, more centred, and less stressed living here than I did in Britain,” she said.

“Everyone is meditating or trying a new yoga or healthy living trend.

“It’s a way many Brits not only embrace a new way of living, but a new career counselling or operating healing centres others move here to set up online businesses.”

Beth loves her new career path and says she is saving to buy a property on Koh Samui. 

“You can spend £70k for a basic three-bedroom apartment with four bathrooms, a communal pool and a countryside view. 

“When you consider that wouldn’t get me a static caravan in Britain it’s a brilliant option.”

Beth admits she misses her family and friends.

“I was homesick for the first six weeks. I try to come back to Britain once or twice a year.

“Once you make a few friends, join the various social media groups for expats and get yourself into a routine it becomes a new normal.

“I have hope again. I thought I would never feel this way. It turns out sun, surf and wrangling tourists is the perfect tonic.”

FOR dolphin spotting, Blue Flag coastlines, and cafés right on the beach, head to Tynemouth.

This pretty town has also just been named one of the best places to live in the North East.

Tynemouth, as its name suggests, is situated right by the mouth of the river Tyne, along the North East coastline.

Now, it’s been named as one of the top places to live in the region by Garrington Property Finders.

Out of 1447 places around the country, Tynemouth in Northumberland ranked at number 85.

However, when totted up with other locations in the North East – it came out sixth.

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Tynemouth sits between Whitley Bay and North Shields and is home to one of the best beaches in the area called Longsands.

The beach has a mile of golden sand, has been awarded Blue Flag status, and is known for having excellent surfing conditions.

One recent visitor wrote on Tripadvisor: “Lovely sand, clean. Plenty of people seen swimming, playing, boarding and walking so it’s popular but not packed.”

Another added: “Beautiful beach that’s dog friendly – loads of nice bars and coffee shops within walking distance. Stunning year around.”

Dogs are generally welcome on the northern end of Longsands beach year-round.

In the summer season between May and the end of September at the southern end of the beach and at King Edward’s Bay restrictions are in place.

Beachgoers regularly spot dolphins offshore from the beach, particularly during summer months.

Aside from spending a day at the seaside, there’s plenty for families to do including heading to the Lost World Adventure crazy golf and the Tynemouth Aquarium.

One of the most popular cafés in Tynemouth is Crusoe’s where visitors can eat right on the sand and take in the seaside view.

You can pick up breakfasts, sandwiches and the classic beach supper, fish and chips from £13.95.

Another fish and chips shop called Marshall’s which is found in the town centre is so busy it usually has customers queueing out the door.

Marshall’s is named after Jimi Hendrix who, according to a blue plaque in the restaurant’s window, ate fish and chips there while playing a show in Newcastle in March 1967.

This summer, the town will hold its annual Mouth of the Tyne Festival between July 9-12.

It’s held within the ruins of the Priory which is on top of the headland and looks over the beach.

Some of the other top places to live in the North East were the village of Wickham in Tyne and Wear and Alnwick in Northumberland.

For more on seaside towns, these are our favourites picked by Sun Travel  – with seal cruises, seafront pubs and secret beaches.

Plus, this pretty village regularly named ‘UK’s most beautiful’ is the perfect spot for a weekend break.

A MAJOR Lego attraction less than two hours from the UK is getting a new experience this month.

Lego House in Billund, Denmark, has launched a new Lego Master Academy Level 1 attraction, where visitors can build together with a number of animal-inspired challenges.

Called ‘Splash into the Bricks’, the new experience involves hands-on building in the Home of the Brick in a creative pond world, “where ducks fly, frogs spin, and buzzing bugs come to life through Lego play”.

The experience will be the most accessible level of Lego Masters Academy with a focus on curiosity, experimentation and play.

In total, the experience lasts one hour and the guided building session is led by Lego House Play Agents.

Guests can create their own ducks, frogs and little bugs as well as build catapults, spinners and slingshots.

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And there’s the chance to interact with other guests too, through group challenges.

At the end of the session, visitors even get to take home their builds.

For the launch of the new experience, there will be two sessions featuring well-known Lego designers and Lego Masters judges.

The first session on February 9 will include Lego Masters Denmark judge Soren Dyrhoj and the second session on February 16, will feature Lego Design Lead, and Lego Masters US judge Amy Corbett.

Lego House is a much-loved family attraction that is spread over 12,000 square metres and boasts 25million Lego bricks.

The Sun’s Head Of Travel (Digital) Caroline McGuire took her six-year-old son to the Billund attraction last summer, said: “I’m not sure that any attraction has wowed me quite as much as Lego house. 

 “We spent seven hours inside the building, seeing how the blocks are made, building our own characters, making our own short Lego movie and even having our food delivered by Lego robots.

“As a mum whose child is obsessed with Lego, I was expecting him to love it – but I wasn’t expecting to love it myself. 

“And yet, I thoroughly enjoyed every single activity. 

“I happily sat for half an hour building a bouquet of Lego flowers, I loved making my own lego robot that danced on a video screen and I still have myself and my child in Lego miniature on our mantelpiece at home. 

“For a place to inspire creativity and joy in so many adults AND children is really rare – usually it’s aimed at one or the other.”

Speaking on the new experience Soren Bering Andersen, head of experiences at Lego House said: “Lego Masters Academy Level 1 is about Lego play bringing people together.

“It’s a space where families and guests of all ages can build, laugh, and explore creativity together.

“Everyone meets the bricks on equal terms, and the fun comes from sharing the experience.”

For those who want to progress their skills further, there is the Level 2, in which there is a focus on specific Lego building techniques as well as more challenges.

In Level 3, visitors then progress to advanced designs and storytelling challenges.

Visitors can also explore an outdoor play area and there is a cafe on-site too for a bite to eat.

And, the attraction is just a nine minute drive from the airport, making it the ideal activity if you are on the way to the airport.

In other attraction news, UK’s strangest (and coolest) theme park launches new ‘crazy trikes’ attraction for 2026.

Plus, one of Europe’s most popular theme parks to open new pirate water coaster, adventure pool and jungle trail.

The art of women in Cannes

We visited the Female Artists of the Mougins Museum, in Mougins, a small village on a hill near Cannes. Full of exclusively female artists – from Berthe Morisot in the 19th century and Frida Kahlo in the early 20th to contemporary figures such as Tracey Emin – it houses an incredible collection of often overlooked art and artists. We visited on a rainy October day and it was remarkably quiet and calm. I particularly enjoyed the abstract works – well worth a trip up the hill.
James

Secret church in Amsterdam’s red light district

Ons’ Lieve Heer op Solder is a bit of a mouthful, but it is the best museum I have ever visited. Our Lord in the Attic is a hidden gem in the centre of Amsterdam and well worth a visit. “Our Lord” is a clandestine church originating after the Reformation when Catholics were no longer allowed to hold public holy masses. It enabled Catholics to worship, but only in private; thus creating an incredibly intimate and secretive experience. The canal house feels like a Tardis as you move from what seems like a labyrinth of rooms, all leading to what appears to be a doll’s house church. A sliver of heaven in the middle of the red light district!
Ryan

Berlin’s pioneering socialist artist

I came across the Käthe-Kollwitz Museum only because I was staying nearby, just off Berlin’s glamorous Ku’damm avenue. This small, intimate building houses probably the best collection of Kollwitz’s prints, drawings, posters, sculptures and woodcuts, inspired by and illustrating her lifelong socialist beliefs with real power and poignancy. Her life and work were profoundly shaped by inseparable personal and political tragedies.
Leslie

Turin’s mountain museum

We visited the Museo Nazionale della Montagna (National Museum of Mountains) in Turin last summer. Having spent the previous four weeks hiking in the Italian Alps, it was the perfect end to our trip. The staff are knowledgable and there are some excellent exhibits exploring the history of our relationship with mountains along with displays of mountaineering gear and derring-do over the past 150 years. There’s also a rooftop terrace with a great view of the city and mountains beyond. A fantastic way to spend a few hours and a must for any lover of mountains.
Samantha McGrady

Captivating artefacts from the far east, Porto

Set in a late 18th-century palace belonging to the Porto bourgeoisie, the Museo Nacional Soares dos Reis, founded in 1833, is considered to be Portugal’s oldest art museum. It features an absorbing collection of Portuguese painting dating from the 16th to 20th centuries, but particularly captivating are the rooms displaying Japanese and Chinese artefacts, which arrived in Portugal off trading ships from the far east. Don’t miss the tranquil garden at the back of the museum.
Peter

Homage to Copernicus in Kraków

The Jagiellonian University Museum has a wonderful collection for those interested in history and science. The university was founded in 1364 and a young Copernicus (who worked out that the sun was at the centre of the known universe rather than the Earth) studied there in the 1490s. Many objects related to its most famous student and his heliocentric theory are showcased, alongside quirky objects related to the history of the university, and the history of Poland. The guides are very knowledgable, the visit is affordable, and it’s conveniently located in Kraków’s beautiful historical city centre.
Aline T Marinho

Quiet contemplation and wonder in Barcelona

In a stunningly restored mattress factory (La Casaramona) designed by Catalan modernist architect Josep Puig i Cadafach, you can find the CaixaForum, just up the road from the Plaça d’Espanya in Barcelona. There are some buildings that eclipse the art that’s inside it, but the Caixa specialises in having a revolving display of exhibitions from photography to sculpture to immersive art, in an atmosphere of quiet contemplation and wonder. It is near the Miró Foundation and so many visitors pass it by without realising how great it is. Within its curvy walls there is a cafe for a welcome cold drink.
Liz Owen Hernandez

An airship and Trump toddlers in Prague

I would really recommend DOX Centre for Contemporary Art in Prague. It’s a little way out of the touristy city centre but is an excellent art gallery within a stunning feat of architecture – a steel and wood airship (built in 2016) seemingly floats out of a postwar factory building. In 2018 I saw a brilliant exhibit, which was a white room filled with giant toddlers with Trump faces.
Katherine L

Paris’s ‘most enchanting’ museum

For me, the most enchanting museum in Paris is the Musée National Gustave Moreau, located in the former home of the 19th-century symbolist artist. Stendhal syndrome is surely a real risk in this glorious space, as one staggers among the dizzying, gigantic paintings painted in elaborate, decorative detail. Classical mythology and intimate biblical scenes are presented in vast gilt frames alongside looser drawings and watercolours housed in cabinets with pivoting shutters for ease of browsing. A spiral staircase between studio floors adds to the magic and the fascinating private apartments offer insight into a brilliant mind. Truly inspiring.
Petra Painter

Winning tip: Bronze gods in Piraeus

The Archaeological Museum of Piraeus contains a wonderful collection of artefacts spanning 2,000 years of Greek history and is generally less hectic than bigger museums in Athens. In pride of place are the Piraeus bronzes, a truly staggering collection of statues (including the Piraeus Apollo and bronze statues of Athena and Artemis) that left such an impression on me that I now have tattoos of two of them. It’s only 20 minutes from the centre of Athens by train, and is a wonderful place to explore while you wait for your ferry connection to the islands.
Ben Holmes

Ross Back Sands beach is a hidden gem that stretches for three miles between Bamburgh Castle and Lindisfarne Castle near Newcastle

A stunning expanse of golden sand framed by green dunes creates the ideal thirty-minute stroll linking Bamburgh castle with Holy Island’s Lindisfarne Castle.

Located just forty minutes by car from Newcastle, Ross Back Sands beach boasts three miles of pristine dunes, flanked by two magnificent examples of medieval construction.

The closest car park sits just fifteen minutes on foot from the shoreline, and this small distance ensures the gorgeous spot remains relatively quiet and deserted throughout the year, according to the Beach Guide.

Positioned at the northern tip of the beach stands Lindisfarne Castle, a 16th-century fortress sitting majestically atop Holy Island. The structure received significant modifications under the guidance of renowned architect Sir Edwin Lutyens in 1901.

During low tide, visitors can access the castle by walking across the causeway. Vikings once raided this region as it served as a contested boundary between England and Scotland, reports Chronicle Live.

Lindisfarne ceased functioning as a priory in 1537 during Henry VIII’s dissolution of the monasteries that followed his union with Anne Boleyn.

Situated south of the beach lies Bamburgh Castle, a Grade I listed structure. Historians believe it originated as a Celtic Brittonic stronghold called Din Guarie and potentially served as Bernicia’s capital from 420 to 547.

Control alternated between the Britons and Anglo-Saxons on three occasions before remaining under Anglo Saxon dominion from 590. Subsequently, the Normans constructed a fresh castle on this site before it reverted to Royal possession in 1095.

Following years of neglect, the fortress underwent restoration throughout the 18th and 19th centuries, with William Armstrong putting the finishing touches to these renovations during the Victorian period.

One TripAdvisor reviewer commented: “Beautiful beach, I have visited many times and never seen more than a handful of people on it. You can often spot seals, the end nearest Holy Island is best for seal watching.

“It’s amusing to see other reviews saying ‘it is worth the walk’, which makes it sound like a bit of a slog to get there – in reality it’s about a mile of very easy walking, although the last part through the dunes undulates a bit.

“So if you think a gentle 20 – 25 minute walk is a bit of an ‘effort’ perhaps try a different beach! One thing to bear in mind is to take note of where you come out onto the beach from the dunes as it is easy to miss when going back, usually there is a marker like a bit of wood – or even a rusty gas canister when I was last there!”.

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Northumberland is famed for its rugged coastline, ancient castles and unspoiled natural beauty. Sykes Cottages has a range of places to stay starting from £38 per night

“Enjoy the beach, enjoy the peace and enjoy the very pleasant little walk to get there, it is part of the experience.”

The picturesque village has one single road running through it and is home to a beloved country restaurant with rave reviews — ideal to spend a day in the countryside.

A charming Lancashire village featuring just one street and boasting a highly-rated country restaurant offers the perfect destination for your next family day out or catch-up with mates.

This distinctive linear village lies next to the renowned Pendle Hill, which provides a breathtaking backdrop to this peaceful hamlet.

Tucked away in the Ribble Valley district, east of the bustling market town of Clitheroe, this compact village serves as an ideal location for a peaceful retreat surrounded by natural beauty.

Its solitary road runs through the settlement before narrowing to a single-track lane leading to neighbouring Downham.

Despite the conservation village of Worston being relatively under the radar, it provides plenty of attractions for a fulfilling day trip.

A serene haven away from urban hustle and bustle, Worston boasts a fascinating and layered past. Back in 1778, workmen broadening the village road to Chatburn discovered 1,000 Roman coins (Denarii) in this modest settlement.

There’s also a prehistoric burial site located on Worsaw Hill, reports Lancs Live.

Located a stone’s throw from the village, Worsaw Hill is a Bronze Age burial mound displaying faint earthworks at its peak, potentially revealing traces of an ancient community from bygone times.

A cavern near the hill’s base enhances its enigmatic appeal, whilst the rocky outcrops and gentler slopes of Worsaw Hill prove excellent territory for fossil enthusiasts.

This tranquil single-track hamlet boasts numerous historical connections, featuring three Grade II Listed structures: the 17th-century Crow Hill Cottage, the 19th-century Worston Old Hall, and the Wall surrounding Worston Old Hall.

Remarkably, Worston Old Hall contains pieces of the historic Sawley Abbey embedded within its construction.

Tucked away beyond the village’s solitary main thoroughfare lies the remarkably intact remnants of an old bull ring, hidden within a compact meadow.

The stone and bronze tethering ring used during the bull-baiting period remains perfectly preserved on the village green.

This bull ring is thought to have been the epicentre of village activity in bygone days.

After the bull-baiting tradition faded, legend has it that anyone seeking confrontation would approach the bronze ring and rattle it vigorously to provoke a duel on the village green.

Charming countryside restaurant worth a visit

At the centre of tranquil Worston sits a much-loved rural restaurant and pub, treasured by locals and tourists alike.

The Calf’s Head ranks as Worston’s premier venue, earning an impressive 4.1 out of 5 rating on Tripadvisor. It stands as the village’s sole dining and drinking destination.

With stunning vistas across Pendle Hill, the Calf’s Head serves authentic ales and an impressive wine collection, alongside a comprehensive menu featuring freshly prepared dishes showcasing locally sourced ingredients. Its sprawling, well-kept gardens and outdoor dining space offer guests the opportunity to savour meals in the fresh air whilst taking in breathtaking views across the Lancashire countryside.

Diners have heaped praise on the food at Calf’s Head, with one guest sharing on Tripadvisor: “We were holidaying in the area and decided to try the Calf’s Head for an evening meal.

“We were not disappointed, the food was plentiful and tasty and it was so good to see some traditional meals on the menu. I loved the homely atmosphere in the restaurant, it was a dark November evening when we visited and it felt very cosy. We will return when we’re next in the area.”

Another glowing review says: “Just had the most amazing afternoon tea in celebration of family birthdays. Soup to start, unlimited tea, varied sandwiches, delicious cakes and scones with jam and cream.

“The staff were friendly, the views were stunning and we loved every part of it. Amazing value at £22.50 per person. Thank you so much.”

Meanwhile, another satisfied visitor said: “We stayed for two nights, having both breakfast and evening meal both days. Delicious food and great service on each occasion, despite the fact they were incredibly busy on Sunday. (Judging by the food, I’m not surprised – our lamb burgers with goat’s cheese and caramelised onions were superb, as was the lasagne.)

“The setting is perfect – in a lovely walled garden by a stream, in a pretty little village. Add in a comfy bed, tea and coffee-making facilities and piping hot water; we couldn’t have asked for more. Thank you!”

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Spain is filled with beautiful destinations, but are often packed with tourists — but now Brits can fly to one Spanish city without fighting through the hustle and bustle

A breathtaking Spanish city could be yours to discover — for just the cost of a £13 flight.

Spain has a slew of destinations that are filled with amazing history, phenomenal beaches and great natural trails. However, this often comes at the cost of being inundated by tourists trying to capture their own private moment.

But now, a new destination has opened up for Brits to explore the glorious Spanish sun, without the need for wrangling through swathes of holidaymakers trying to take the perfect picture. The hidden gem also sits right on the Mediterranean coast, making it an unspoilt beauty, but still close to other holiday hotspots.

READ MORE: Inside England’s ‘prettiest seaside town’ with sandy beaches and coastal pathsREAD MORE: British dual-citizens told to do 1 thing before travel or risk not getting back to UK

Castellón de la Plana is a small city sitting just inland of Spain’s Costa de Valencia. With a population of just over 174,000 people, the city is often dwarfed by its popular neighbours, including Benidorm, Valencia, and even Barcelona further along the coast.

However, the city is brimming with culture and history, being the fourth-largest city in the region. The town has been mentioned in history books as far back as 1233, when it was taken over by a Spanish king, and has since built up an impressive history, filled with castles and stunning panoramic views, all with 30 °C temperatures at the height of summer.

Being located close to the sea, the city boasts access to the stunning Islas Columbretes Natural Park, where tourists can take in the amazing natural landscapes. With huge sea stacks and rock formations coming out of the sea, the panoramic views are like no other in Spain itself.

Back on dry land, travellers looking to get stuck into the hustle and bustle of daily life can get lost strolling through the Mercado Central, filled with locals selling their best produce. Seafood is in plenty of supply, with customers often queuing around the markets to get fresh quality goods, including food and drinks.

But if the market chaos is too much, the city also boasts a number of quiet, peaceful plazas that show how locals live their lives. Places such as the Plaça Major offer spots for people-watching, whilst taking in the breathtaking architecture of the local cathedral and other prominent buildings.

Beaches are also dotted around the city, with the songs such as the Playa del Pinar and Playa El Gurugu being the perfect spots to catch the sunrise over the horizon of the Med.

Food and drink are also staples of the city’s thriving life, as there are a host of bars and restaurants offering traditional meals for a reasonable price. Modern history is also covered, with the Refugio Antiaereo air-raid shelter now serving as a museum, adding an extra quirk to the Spanish diamond.

British tourists are now able to catch a flight to Castellón de la Plana, after Ryanair officially connected London Stanstead Airport to Castellón Airport, based some 30 kilometres away from the city itself. The cost of the flights themselves are also incredibly cheap, with the cheapest one-way flight to the Spanish getaway coming in at £13 this month.

The airport can also serve as a great gateway to the rest of the Valencia region, with holiday hotspots such as Valencia City, Alicante, and Benidorm easily accessible. The price of flights also do not fluctuate that much, meaning a cheap flight to Spain is always guaranteed.

ONE of many Z Hotels in London, the Gloucester Place hotel is fabulously located.

Here is everything you need to know about the hotel.

Where is Z Hotel Gloucester Place?

Split across six converted Georgian townhouses, Z Hotel Gloucester Place is ideally placed between Baker Street and Oxford Street with 114 bedrooms and an onsite 24/7 Z Bar.

What are the rooms like?

Calling the rooms “compact luxury,” each one comes with everything you need for a base to stay such as a hidden underbed drawer to store your suitcase.

This also means huge queen or king beds, Samsung HDTVs and tea and coffee making facilities in the room. 

The small bathrooms have large, if not basic showers and come with their own toiletries too.

Read more on hotels reviews

TOP STUFF

The London hotel with one of the city’s best rooftop bars

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Inside the affordable London Travelodge hotel right by the main city attractions

If you want to save the cash and don’t need much of a view, there are budget opens that have rooms without a window.

Rooms start from £55 a night. See thezhotels.com.

What is there to eat and drink?

The 24-hour on-site cafe is a godsend for late arrivals if you need a coffee or something stronger.

Breakfast is served there as well with a small but filling collection of pastries, cereals and some more unique hot options such as bacon flatbreads.

If you’re wanting dinner, there are some limited snacks such as pizza and toasties, as well as complimentary cheese and wine hours.

For something more substantial, you’re best exploring outside the hotel.

Thankfully you’re spoilt for choice, with everything from Sri Lankan at Hoppers, as well as Jinkoni’s Japanese cuisine and Alley Cats Pizza nearby.

What else is there to do?

What the hotel makes up for without amenities is its location.

It’s near tube station Baker Street and is a short walk from Oxford Circus if you fancy a shopping spree.

Otherwise London attractions such as Regent’s Park and Madame Tussauds are a short walk away. 

Is the hotel family-friendly?

While the hotel doesn’t have any family friendly suites, additional rooms can be booked with close access.

Is there access for guests with disabilities?

Z Hotel Gloucester Place is the only one of their hotels to not be accessible, due to being Grade II listed.

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

Whenever I want to escape the city, I have a tendency to go deep into the backcountry of Angeles National Forest.

But I don’t always have time for an all-day adventure. Luckily, Los Angeles has several local parks that make it easy to disappear into an old woodland or thicket of pine trees to briefly forget you’re one of 10 million people living in the county.

The three hikes below are either in L.A. or close by and require only a short drive for many Angelenos. (And for my readers in the South Bay, I promise I will hike down your way soon.)

Regardless of whether you want to take an afternoon off to explore one of these hikes or try one after a weekend brunch, I hope you find a gentle peacefulness that restores you back to feeling more like yourself. Time in nature can do that and more.

A large oak tree provides shade over a trail in Franklin Canyon Park.

(Jaclyn Cosgrove / Los Angeles Times)

1. Loop trail around Franklin Canyon Park

Distance: 1.2-mile loop with options to extend (see map)
Elevation gained: About 200 feet
Difficulty: Moderate
Dogs allowed? Yes
Accessible alternative: Franklin Canyon Drive loop

Franklin Canyon Park is 605 acres of public land north of Beverly Hills that features chaparral and oak woodlands. The park has three bodies of water: the three-acre Franklin Canyon Lake, Heavenly Pond and Wild Pond.

To reach the park, you’ll take the southern entrance, as the northern entrance is closed while the L.A. Department of Water and Power repairs the roadway. Take good care as you drive into the park, as there are a few tight corners with low visibility.

Upon arrival, I’d recommend taking a 1.2-mile loop, which I’ve mapped out here, that will take you past the lake and ponds and up into the park’s hillsides. I went on a recent afternoon when it was in the mid-80s in L.A. and found the park to be cooler thanks to the abundant shade provided by oaks, sumac and other trees.

A turtle rests on a hunk of wood in the Heavenly Pond in Franklin Canyon Park.

(Jaclyn Cosgrove / Los Angeles Times)

To begin your hike, you’ll park in the large dirt main parking lot. Signs around the lot warn visitors of frequent break-ins, so either leave your treasure at home or hike in your pearls.

From the parking lot, head south on Franklin Canyon Drive, where you’ll quickly find a trail entrance with wooden steps that lead down near Franklin Canyon Lake. I hope you’re greeted by the sound of quacking waterfowl like I was! (And I bet if you go in the morning or evening, you’ll hear bullfrogs.)

Continue in the southerly direction, appreciating the gnarled coast live oaks and sound of shy red-eared sliders plopping off their logs into the water. This short trail will lead you back up to the road where you’ll walk south for just a bit before turning onto the gentle path that loops around Heavenly Pond. This is an especially good spot to find turtles, ducks and at least one orange-and-white koi.

From Heavenly Pond, continue south on the paved road, following it past the private residence to the wooden steps at the reservoir’s southern end. Take these stairs down onto Chernoff Trail. You’ll quickly spot toyon and pine trees, among other natural delights. Soon, you’ll bear right (or northeast) to take stairs onto the road. Cross the road and continue northeast onto the trail. Take the next set of steps up past thick bunches of black sage and chaparral nightshade.

Plants with flowers blooming in Franklin Canyon include ceanothus, California brittlebush and wishbone bush.

(Jaclyn Cosgrove / Los Angeles Times)

Continue north on Blinderman Trail, following it as it bears east before it loops back around west. Along the way, you’ll pass well-maintained benches and bridges. Between the rustic bridges and frequent tree canopy, this trail made me feel, at times, like I was entering a fairy tale. I spotted lots of blooming California brittlebush and desert wishbone bushes along Blinderman Trail as well as some deer tracks near a forested area where the trail ends near the parking lot.

A portion of Blinderman Trail is a bit washed out, so I’d recommend carrying hiking poles, especially for the trip down. If you need to refill your water bottle, there are water fountains near the Eugene and Michael Rosenfeld Auditorium, which is just southeast of the main lot.

I left Franklin Canyon Park grateful for my short jaunt in nature, amazed by yet another well-maintained public park in the heart of L.A.

Cave of Munits.

(Jaclyn Cosgrove / Los Angeles Times)

2. Cave of Munits

Distance: 1.3-mile loop
Elevation gained: About 230 feet
Difficulty: Moderate
Dogs allowed? Yes
Accessible alternative: Orcutt Ranch Horticulture Center trail

This 1.3-mile loop trail follows El Escorpión Trail in the 61-acre El Escorpión Park to the Cave of Munits, a chimney cave named after a sorcerer in a local Indigenous legend.

To begin, you’ll park on the street near the trailhead. To reach the cave, you can either take El Escorpión Trail, a wide exposed dirt path that starts at El Escorpión Park gate, or the path along the riverbed, which provides more shade but is more narrow. Both are visible on maps on outdoors navigation apps. When I hiked to the Cave of Munits, I took El Escorpión Trail to the cave and the shadier trail along the creek on the way back.

The cave isn’t immediately visible when you start. Once you see a large rocky gash in the mountain, you know you’re getting close. Once inside the cave, be mindful not to cause any damage and be careful when climbing.

The steepest part of this hike is as you approach the largest cave. Grippy shoes are a must, and trekking poles could be helpful.

The Cave of Munits is an easy place to reconnect with your childlike wonder, but please explore with respect and reverence for the place. The cave’s name relates to a Fernandeño and Western Tongva story of tragic misunderstanding, which you can read here.

Dunsmore Canyon in Glendale.

(Jaclyn Cosgrove / Los Angeles Times)

3. Dunsmore Canyon & Le Mesnager Loop Trail

Distance: 2.6 miles
Elevation gained: About 800 feet
Difficulty: Moderate
Dogs allowed? Yes
Accessible alternative: Brand Park history walk

This hike through the 709-acre Deukmejian Wilderness Park in Glendale will offer you not only great views of the surrounding cities but also an opportunity to spend time among blooming trees and native plants, including California peonies and California brittlebush.

You’ll park in a lot near the Stone Barn Nature Center. Several signs warn that the park closes one hour after sunset and to leave before you get locked in. I think they’re serious, so take note.

You’ll start your hike on Dunsmore Canyon Trail, headed northeast up a straight gravel path covered on both sides with several native plants including ceanothus (both white and purple blooms), yerba santa and sagebrush.

Just .2 miles in, there’s a massive old coast live oak where kids could easily create an imaginary forest kingdom under its large branches.

As you continue to climb, you might hear Dunsmore Creek, which runs parallel to the trail. Remember to turn around as you gain elevation, as this trail rewards you with substantial views of Glendale and the Crescenta Valley soon after you start. All the while, you have the San Gabriel Mountains right in front of you, including Mt. Lukens, which you can hike to from the same park.

Half a mile in, you have the option to continue on the Dunsmore Canyon Trail or Le Mesnager Trail to make a shorter loop. Le Mesnager Trail includes a lookout point at about 2,750 feet, a great spot for a sunset as long as you don’t get locked in! As you meander down the trail, you’ll find a nice shady canopy and continued views of the city below.

3 things to do

Volunteers work at the Debs Park Test Plot.

(Test Plot)

1. Protect native habitat in L.A.
The Audubon Center at Debs Park needs volunteers from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. Friday for its monthly maintenance on the test plot. Volunteers will meet in the center’s courtyard before heading out. Participants should wear closed-toed shoes and clothing they don’t mind getting dirty. They should also bring a reusable water bottle and gardening gloves. Register at act.audubon.org.

2. Nurture nature in Glendale
The Arroyos & Foothills Conservancy needs volunteers from 9 to 11 a.m. Sunday for a restoration workday in the Sycamore Canyon Preserve. Volunteers will help improve the health of plant life in the preserve to better ensure it is inviting and healthy for wildlife, which use it as a corridor to travel through the area. Participants should bring water, sunscreen and work gloves. Pants, long sleeves and sturdy shoes are recommended. If able, volunteers are encouraged to bring shovels, loppers or trowels. Other tools and equipment will be available.⁠ Learn more at arroyosfoothills.org.

3. Wander the wetlands in Huntington Beach
Amigos de Bolsa Chica will host a free tour from 9 to 10:30 a.m. Saturday through the Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve in Huntington Beach. Visitors should meet their guides in the south parking lot off Pacific Coast Highway, halfway between Warner Avenue and Seapoint Street. Volunteer naturalists will present information on the preserve’s history, bird life and more. Register at amigosdebolsachica.charityproud.org.

The must-read

Skiers navigate their way down Lincoln Mountain at Mammoth Mountain ski area, located in the Sierra Nevada mountain range.

(Christian Pondella / For The Times)

Two ski patrollers at Mammoth Mountain have died in separate avalanches over the past year. These workers are responsible for clearing popular ski routes by using handheld explosives to prevent avalanches from harming guests. “Were the resort’s managers pushing too hard to open the mountain after major storms? Had training standards slipped, pushing relatively inexperienced ski patrollers into dangerous situations? Are young ski patrollers afraid to speak up, even when they think they’ve been asked to take unreasonable risks?” wrote Times staff writer Jack Dolan. Read Dolan’s story to find the answer to those questions and more.

Happy adventuring,

P.S.

Let’s end with good news! A volunteer was monitoring Eastern Pacific green sea turtles that live near the mouth of the San Gabriel River when they spotted a shelled reptile in trouble. The turtle had fishing line wound around her right flipper and into her mouth. “She was also attached to a medley of debris — clothes, algae, plastic,” wrote Times staff writer Lila Seidman. “When she came up for air, aquarium staffer Aaron Hovis jumped in and grabbed her. Once freed from the garbage, she was loaded onto a stretcher and brought to the aquarium.” The turtle, now named Porkchop for her voracious appetite, is now happily recovering at the Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach. Although the aquarium has been helping injured sea turtles for more than 25 years, the public can now see the little cuties on display in a new exhibit about the turtles. You can visit Porkchop until she’s returned to the wild, where veterinary staff are confident she’ll keep thriving — and eating!

For more insider tips on Southern California’s beaches, trails and parks, check out past editions of The Wild. And to view this newsletter in your browser, click here.

Dorset’s Lyme Regis has been hailed as one of England’s best seaside destinations by UK travel influencer Amy Hulley, who shared her discovery of the charming beach town with her 434,000 Instagram followers

With January now done and dusted, countless Brits will be crossing their fingers and hoping for warmer weather so they can savour a delightfully sunny staycation. If that’s precisely what you have in mind, then ensure you don’t miss what has been dubbed England’s ‘prettiest seaside town’

UK travel influencer Amy Hulley showcased a reel featuring this stunning location on her Instagram account to her 434,000 followers. The spot she highlighted? The magnificent Dorset treasure that is Lyme Regis. Amy’s short clip captured her exploring all that Lyme Regis offers, from its gorgeous coastline to its delightful town centre and picturesque harbour.

In her post’s caption, Amy simply branded Lyme Regis as “one of the best”.

Her audience clearly agreed with her assessment, with one follower proclaiming: “I love Lyme Regis,” whilst another branded it their “happy place”.

Another supporter simply wrote: “Oh wow,” whilst someone else mentioned they were ‘adding it to their wish list’.

What is there to do in Lyme Regis?

There are numerous great activities you can do in the beautiful seaside town of Lyme Regis, which lies on the famous Jurassic Coast (a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its geology and fossils) with beaches, walks, museums, activities and more.

Beaches and outdoor activities

• Lyme Regis Beach – A lovely sandy and pebble beach perfect for sun, swimming, sandcastles, and bat & ball games.
• Lyme Regis Fossil Beach (Ammonite Pavement) – A great spot on Monmouth Beach for fossil hunting and seeing natural ammonite layers in the rock.
• Lyme Regis Front Beach – Walk along the seafront and enjoy cafes and views.

Exploring nature

• Stroll along the South West Coast Path for scenic cliff and bay views.
• Langmoor & Lister Gardens – Peaceful gardens overlooking the bay, great for picnics and relaxing.
• Fossils, museums and history
• Lyme Regis Museum – Local history, geology and fossils; built on the site of famous paleontologist Mary Anning’s former home.
• Dinosaurland Fossil Museum – Large private fossil collection with marine and dinosaur specimens, plus guided fossil walks available (check opening).
• Fossilwise – A visitor attraction focused on fossils and geology.
• Join guided fossil hunting walks (especially after storms) to search for ammonites, belemnites and more.

Water-based fun

• Lyme Rib Rides – Exciting rib boat trips around Lyme Bay.
• Lyme Bay Boat Trips – Sightseeing & Mackerel Fishing – Sightseeing and fishing trips from the harbour.
• Nick’s Fishing Trips – Local mackerel fishing experiences.
• Aquarium
• Lyme Regis Marine Aquarium – Small but enjoyable marine displays overlooking the Cobb.

Local culture, food and shops

• The Town Mill – Historic mill complex with artisanal shops, cafés, pottery, mill bakery and Lyme Regis Brewery close by for local brews.
• Independent shops, bookstores and cafes around town — great for souvenirs and browsing.

Heritage and walking

• Wander the iconic Cobb Harbour, famous from The French Lieutenant’s Woman and Jane Austen’s Persuasion — beautiful views and lots of historic charm.
• Walk parts of the Jurassic Coast trail or take scenic routes to neighbouring beaches like Charmouth (excellent for fossils too).

Events

• Lyme Regis Fossil Festival (usually around early May) — talks, guided walks, stalls, and activities celebrating the area’s geology and paleontology.

FOR A week in March you can get your hands on discounted and free tickets to hundreds of attractions across the UK.

Between March 7 and 15, National Lottery players can get free tickets, discounted tickets and special offers by purchasing a National lottery ticket, scratchcard or Instant Win Game in store or online.

One top saving is to the Eden Project, which has tropical trees and even a living clay sculpture called Eve that grows out of the landscape.

Entry will be free across the week, which is a saving of around £100 based on a family of four visiting.

Loved old-school, school dinners? Then you might want to head to the UK’s only Food Museum in Suffolk, where visitors can sample different foods and step inside an 18th-century dairy.

Adult entry will be free from March 7 to 8.

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All the little-known websites for cheap or FREE tickets to gigs, theatre & festivals

Other spots offering free entry include Audley End House and Gardens (March 7-15); Eltham Palace and Gardens (March 7-8, March 11-15) and BBC Studios tours at Alexandra Palace (March 10).

If you’ve always wanted to visit some of the country’s palaces, then March 7 to 15 might be the time to.

Hampton Court Palace is offering half-price entry from March 7 to 8 and March 13 to 14, which could save families up to £42.

Other destinations with half-price entry include the Tower of London (March 7-14) and Kensington Palace (March 7-8, 11-14).

It’s not just historical destinations included though…

You could get a half price annual membership to the Butterfly Conservation in Winchester if you purchase it between March 7 and 15.

Rugby fans could head to the World Rugby Museum in Twickenham, with two for on entry from March 7 to 8 and 10 to 15.

You can also upgrade to include an Allianz Stadium Twickenham Tour.

It’s not just entry and seeing things, you can also get discounts on workshops, bookstores, cafes and tours.

For example, you could head to Bernard Leach Trust in St Ives for a Kurinuki Pots workshop on March 7 or an introduction to printmaking.

And if you want to keep active, some gyms are even opening their doors for free workout sessions.

Darren Henley, chief executive of Arts Council England and Chair of the National Lottery Forum said: “National Lottery Open Week is a chance to get outside and explore the UK’s rich history, stunning landscapes and vibrant culture through free and low-cost days out, whether you’re looking for a solo adventure, or a fun day out for the family or with friends.

“It is our way of thanking National Lottery players who raise £32million every week for good causes, supporting vital projects in arts, sports, heritage, and communities nationwide.”

To benefit from the offer, you must head to any retail or online National Lottery ticket seller and purchase either Lotto, EuroMillions, Set 4 Life and Thunderball or a National Lottery Scratchcard or an Instant Win Game.

You can see the full list of locations at NationalLotteryOpenWeek.com.

In other attraction news, the UK’s strangest (and coolest) theme park launches new ‘crazy trikes’ attraction for 2026.

Plus, world’s first Paw Patrol land opens at UK theme park in weeks – here’s what it’ll look like.

ESCAPING the dreary UK for the paradise of the Caribbean might sound incredibly expensive.

However, on the cheapest island which is the Dominican Republic, you can get an all-inclusive February break from £155.57per night.

The Dominican Republic is one of the best places to travel to this year, and was voted as such in the ‘Best of the Best’ Travellers’ Choice Awards on Tripadvisor.

On what visitors can see there, Tripadvisor said: “Offering a lush interior with a mix of caves, Victorian gingerbread houses and the lore of pirates, plus 900 miles of coastline along its brim.”

“Island highlights include riding a cable car up Mount Isabel de Torres and basking on stunning Saona Island. Oh, and did we mention the D.R. is family-friendly, has just about perfect weather and is affordable?”

Tourists visiting the Dominican Republic will flock to Punta Cana on the eastern side of the island.

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DREAMY DEALS

Our pick of the best long haul holidays for short haul prices

This is where you’ll find white sandy beaches with bright waters and all-inclusive resorts – which are incredibly affordable.

On loveholidays you can get a seven-night holiday to the 3-star Bavaro Green hotel (room only).

Flights depart on February 23, 2026 from Manchester Airport.

The apartment-style hotel is in the heart of Pueblo Bávaro – it has an outdoor pool as well as one for kids and a playground.

It’s a five minute walk away from the city centre and Bavaro Beach is a 15-minute drive away.

On loveholidays, all-inclusive packages start from £1,089pp in February – which works out at £155.57pppn.

For this price you get a seven-night stay at the whala!bavaro including TUI flights from Manchester.

The 4-star hotel has 212 rooms which come with air conditioning, flatscreen TVs, private bathrooms and WiFi.

The resort has both an outdoor freshwater pool surrounded by sun loungers, and an indoor freshwater pool.

There are three bars, a buffet restaurant and it’s minutes away from the closest beach.

Compared to other destinations in the Caribbean, the Dominican Republic is relatively cheap.

The average price of coffee in the Dominican Republic is £1.46 and a meal at an inexpensive restaurant can start from £4.65, according to Wise.

In comparison, a meal in Barbados is around £14.50 and a coffee is around £3.32.

It’s so affordable because of its low labour costs and local production of goods, which keeps operating expenses down for resorts.

February is a great time to travel to the Dominican Republic – it’s an incredible winter sun destination.

During February, there are daily highs of around 28C with minimal rainfall.

When it comes to exploring the island, one must-visit is one of the ‘World’s Best Beaches‘ – Canto de la Playa came in at number six.

Found on Saona Island it’s considered ‘one of the Caribbean‘s best-kept secrets’.

It’s been described as having noticeably soft sand along with calm waters for swimmers with vibrant coral reefs just offshore.

Saona Island is found off the southeastern tip of the Dominican Republic and forms part of the East National Park.

It’s known for mangroves and coral reefs and of course, its palm-fringed beaches.

In the waters around the island, visitors can expect to see sea turtles, dolphins and even humpback whales.

If you want to get incredible views, head up the Mount Isabel de Torres cable car which in 10-minutes climbs 2,600 feet.

The cable car is in Puerto Plata on the northern coast of the island with views of the city, tropical forest and the coastline.

For more on the Caribbean, Deputy Travel Editor Kara Godfrey checked out one of the least visited islands with zip lines, lobster bars and volcano hiking.

And this is the closest Caribbean island to the UK that has Maldives-like overwater villas.

Drew Binsky has visited all 197 countries in the world and has recently shared his top three African destinations, offering a comprehensive travel guide for those considering a trip to the continent

American YouTuber Drew Binsky, who has journeyed through all 54 African countries, has unveiled his top three picks, providing travel advice and handy tips for those eager to explore the continent. The content creator has set foot in all 197 countries worldwide, culminating his global tour with a visit to Saudi Arabia in 2021.

After recent trips to Australia and New Zealand with his parents, Drew has traversed every country in Africa and shared a snapshot of his five preferred destinations.

Drew hinted that his choices might surprise those contemplating a trip to Africa, remarking: “It might even make you book a flight out here to experience the adrenaline rush for yourself.”

Tanzania clinched the top spot on his African list, with Drew lauding the Hadzabe tribe as the “coolest people ever.”

Ethiopia claimed second position, with Drew confessing he was “obsessed” with the nation, while Namibia completed the top three, reports the Express.

Tanzania

The East African country of Tanzania, home to more than 66 million people, reigned supreme in Drew’s rankings, and the footage clearly illustrates why. This marked Drew’s fourth visit to the nation, where he admitted: “I could not get enough of this place right now,” according to the Express.

After spending time with the Hadzabe, among the last remaining hunter-gatherer communities in Africa, Drew ventured into Serengeti National Park to observe the zebra and wildebeest migration. His travels then led him to the famed Ngorongoro Crater in northern Tanzania, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

He observed: “I’ve never seen a crater in my life that’s this big. I mean, it goes on forever.”

Drew also travelled to Mount Kilimanjaro, the world’s highest free-standing mountain, before heading to Zanzibar, which he described as having some of the “most beautiful beaches in the world.”

He continued: “If you can only visit one country in Africa, let it be Tanzania. It’s safe, the streets are clean, there are no scams here, everyone’s super nice, they speak English — you will absolutely love it.”

Ethiopia

Ethiopia, with a population exceeding 128 million, secured second place in Drew’s rankings. He praised the nation’s “many amazing cultures” and revealed he has visited nine times, urging travellers to explore beyond the capital, Addis Ababa.

Drew highlighted locations including Dire Dawa in the east and the ancient city of Harar, a UNESCO-recognised site steeped in Somali heritage.

He stated: “You have Lalibela, which is an amazing ancient Christian rock formation. And speaking of religion, Ethiopia is split between Islam and Christianity, and they have a really interesting branch of Christianity that’s really unique.”

The YouTuber also travelled to Tigray in northern Ethiopia, trekking to ancient churches carved into the mountainsides. His journey included the town of Gandha, notable for its significant Jewish community, and the Omo Valley in south-western Ethiopia, home to “some of the most incredible tribes in the world with fascinating traditions.”

He added: “Ethiopia has the best food in Africa. The best coffee in the world is there. I can go on and on about Ethiopia.”

Namibia

Completing Drew’s top three was Namibia, a south-west African nation with a population of just under three million. It is the world’s second least densely populated country, behind only Mongolia.

Drew said: “It’s one of the only places in the world where you can find beautiful sand dunes that intersect exactly with the ocean. Now I can finally see why everyone always falls in love with Namibia — this place is as good as it gets.”

His trip included a visit to Etosha National Park before heading to Windhoek, which he described as a “cool capital city.”

He remarked: “The people are so lovely and friendly, they speak great English.”

Lastly, Drew visited Sossusvlei, praising its “incredible nature” and the sight of trees emerging from the sand dunes. He added: “And of course, you have the Himba tribe near the Angola border in Namibia. They have the clay hair, and they’re just so cool. I really love visiting the tribes in Africa — it’s so enriching and so amazing to appreciate their cultures and traditions.”

Brits with dual-citizenships have been told they could be refused entry back into the UK from February 25, 2026, under new ETA rules if they travel abroad without the correct documents

British passport holders could find themselves barred from re-entering the UK from February 25, 2026, under stringent new travel regulations that require additional documentation for entry into the country.

From later this month, the UK will get stricter with its Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme for all visitors, including those from the EU, USA, and other visa-exempt countries, meaning they’ll need digital clearance before arrival. The system will apply across all modes of transport – aeroplanes, ferries, and Eurostar services – with strict carrier inspections in place. Whilst the average British citizen won’t be impacted by these measures, dual nationals holding multiple passports could face significant complications.

While residents under the EU Settlement scheme or Leave to Remain arrangements are exempt, as their foreign passports contain evidence of their approved UK residency, those with dual citizenship and multiple passports have been cautioned they may struggle to return back to the UK if they overlook one crucial detail.

With the Government recently announcing tougher enforcement of Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) and eVisa verification at border control, an immigration solicitor has issued an urgent reminder to British dual nationals to carry out one essential check before jetting off on holiday. A UK immigration lawyer and legal expert has issued an urgent warning to Brits on social media, particularly those holding dual citizenship who could face serious travel disruptions.

Skylar McKeith, who has amassed thousands of followers by demystifying British immigration laws and providing guidance on various scenarios including travel, has raised the alarm about upcoming changes that could see some British citizens refused entry to their own country.

“British citizens could be refused entry to the UK,” she cautioned in her video, before detailing how the new ETA regulations could impact British nationals.

“From the 25th February, the UK will fully enforce its ETA system,” Skylar revealed. “British citizens cannot apply for an ETA, so if you are a dual citizen and you travel on your non-UK foreign passport, you may be refused boarding.”

From 25 February 2026, visitors from 85 countries, including the United States, Canada, and France, who previously didn’t require a visa will be unable to legally enter the UK without obtaining an ETA.

The enforcement of these new rules means that everyone wishing to enter the UK must secure digital permission through either an ETA or an eVisa, with carriers conducting checks before passengers travel.

Whilst this may seem complicated, it simply means that British citizens holding multiple different citizenships need to carefully consider which passport they use when travelling. Skylar went on to to share her essential advice on navigating this situation.

“The solution is simple,” Skylar advised. “Travel on your British passport, or a foreign passport with a certificate of entitlement.”

A Certificate of Entitlement (CoE) is an official endorsement, usually a vignette in a foreign passport, that confirms a person’s right of abode in the UK, granting them unrestricted living and working rights. Those eligible can apply for these documents via the government’s website at a cost of £589.

For those juggling multiple passports, it’s generally suggested to carry all of them while travelling as it provides more options for visa-free entry. It’s also recommended to use your home country’s passport when entering or returning to that country.

Since the introduction of ETA in October 2023, over 13.3 million travellers have successfully applied, enjoying quicker and smoother journeys. ETA has become an essential aspect of travel, including for passengers taking connecting flights and passing through UK passport control.

Tourists are being encouraged to visit war-torn Afghanistan with a new guide being published this month

A new travel guide is being published for first time in 20 years persuading tourists to visit … Afghanistan.

The war-torn country is not on on most travellers’ current bucket lists and the Foreign Office tells tourists they must not visit. Once a key stop on the hippie trail, Afghanistan disappeared from travel itineraries in recent years. But the mainstream publisher Bradt feels the time is now right for the country to re-emerge onto the map.

Author James Willcox said: “Nearly all of Afghanistan can currently be visited and, with the right preparation, an inspiring range of trips is possible.

“We’ve tried to bring together an invaluable resource which gives readers a good grounding in Afghanistan’s history and culture, along with the practical information they need to get there, get around and enjoy this much misunderstood country.”

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In recent decades Afghanistan has been more well-known for war, the Taliban and as the hideout for 9/11 mastermind Osama Bin Laden. And there’s even more reasons not to visit: Temperatures can reach a staggering 50C in summer and -25C in the winter.

Beer is strictly banned in Afghanistan but can be obtained on the black market in Kabul. The £24.99 guide is being released on February 20. Written by Willcox and colleague Dana Facaros, the guide covers locations such as the legendary Khyber Pass and activities from mountain trekking with nomads to the goat-related sport of buzkashi.

It says it is “aimed at the curious and the adventurous” , and covers locations such as the riverside spire of the Minaret of Jam, a 12th-century structure 14 hours from the nearest paved road, and the Niches of Bamiyan, where the Buddha statues once stood, before their destruction by the Taliban.

A spokesman for Bradt went on: ”Afghanistan is a paradox: a nation so well-known internationally, yet one so infrequently explored that it has been effectively untouched by tourism since being a key stop on the hippie trail four decades ago.

“The Indian subcontinent, the Middle East, China and the ex-USSR ‘stans collide in Afghanistan. It is both the graveyard of empires and one of the world ’s most hospitable countries.

“From the searing deserts of the south to the high peaks of the Hindu Kush, any trip here is challenging – but one that is now eminently possible with the right preparation.

“Even the most well-travelled visitor will find their soul stirred and their blood pumping from spending time in Afghanistan. With the new Bradt Afghanistan Guidebook to inform and inspire you, the off-beat holiday of a lifetime beckons.”

But the Foreign Office advice for tourists is pretty clear: “You should not travel to Afghanistan.” It goes on: “The security situation is volatile and tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan have previously resulted in violent clashes in border regions.

“Travel throughout Afghanistan is extremely dangerous and a number of border crossings are not currently open.

“There is a heightened risk of British nationals being detained in Afghanistan. If you are a British national and you are detained in Afghanistan, you could face months or years of imprisonment.”

Flights are fuller than ever with UK load factors reaching 85-90%, increasing the risk of passengers being ‘bumped’ from overbooked planes during the busy February half-term break

Within just a few weeks, thousands of British families will be jetting off during the February half-term break, with airports bracing themselves for exceptionally high passenger volumes. However, holidaymakers have been cautioned about possible travel chaos during this period, as flights are operating at peak capacity.

The aviation sector is experiencing unprecedented growth, with more aircraft taking off each year to whisk passengers away to sought-after destinations. The industry has witnessed remarkable expansion in its scale, capabilities, and global connectivity, showing no indication of easing off.

Last summer proved particularly remarkable, with over 90 million travellers passing through UK airports between July and September alone – the busiest three-month stretch ever recorded, according to figures from the UK Civil Aviation Authority. Furthermore, ACC Aviation reports that a staggering 3,593 new flight routes were introduced across various carriers throughout 2024 and 2025 to meet surging passenger demand.

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Despite February half-term being a considerably shorter holiday window, flights are still anticipated to be jam-packed as families escape abroad for a winter getaway. Yet lurking behind this travel boom could be an unseen hazard for passengers, as aircraft are being booked out more heavily than at any point previously.

Figures from the International Air Transport Association (IATA) published last week showed that the global passenger load factor – the proportion of available seats occupied by travellers – hit an all-time high of 83.6 per cent in 2025, marking a 5.3 per cent increase. Breaking down the statistics, European carriers recorded a load factor of 84.1 per cent, whilst UK airlines routinely surpassed 85-90 per cent, according to Air Advisor, reports the Express.

READ MORE: Cheapest dates to travel during the 6-week summer holidays – including ‘golden’ week

Looking ahead, travel demand in 2026 is projected to climb further, meaning more than 83 out of every 100 seats could be taken, leaving minimal spare capacity. This not only complicates rebooking cancelled flights but may also see passengers denied boarding at airports altogether.

Carriers routinely overbook flights to offset no-shows, however when capacity runs high, this practice can trigger significant issues. Air Advisor highlighted that if a carrier anticipates 10 per cent of passengers won’t turn up and overbooks accordingly, but only 5 per cent actually miss their flight, it could end up with more passengers than available seats.

Furthermore, airlines may struggle to accommodate all confirmed passengers if they deploy a smaller aircraft than originally scheduled. With aircraft fuller than ever before, the likelihood of overbooking incidents has substantially increased.

This means certain passengers could find themselves being asked – or even compelled – to surrender their seat on the aircraft. According to the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) website: “If this happens to you, it means you have been ‘bumped’ from your flight. It is also called ‘denied boarding’. Often, you can volunteer to be bumped, but sometimes airlines will bump you without your agreement.”

However, passengers who voluntarily agree to be ‘bumped’ will receive compensation from the airline, ranging anywhere from £110 to £520. Furthermore, travellers – whether they volunteered or were involuntarily ‘bumped’ – will be provided with either a refund or an alternative flight, though the wait time for the next available departure can differ based on flight availability.

The increased appetite for travel, resulting in fuller planes, also creates additional challenges. It becomes significantly more difficult to secure an upgrade, reduces the number of available empty seats, and can occasionally affect last-minute bargains.

To minimise the risk of being ‘bumped’, holidaymakers are encouraged to check in online as soon as it opens, choose their seat in advance and turn up at the boarding gate with time to spare.

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

STRESSED about your half-term family getaway stretching your bank account? Well, many hotels offer free stays for kids.

Whether you are heading out of the country and need a hotel near an airport or are just heading on a staycation, hotels can be expensive when you add on the kids.

But there are a number of hotels all over the UK that offer free kids stays making it more affordable.

Some even offer free meals and other perks too…

Down Hall, Bishop’s Stortford

Named AA Hotel of the Year, Down Hall nestled in the English countryside is just 45 minutes from central London and 15 minutes from Stansted Airport.

The hotel is an Italianate mansion with a history dating back to the 11th century.

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Inside, there are 98 individually designed bedrooms, including ones with views of the garden.

There is also an on-site restaurant called The Garden Room, which uses ingredients from its own vegetable garden.

Visitors can head to the Eden Spa too, a 24-hour gym, tennis courts and 11 acres of woodland.

Kids stay free between February 14 and 22, based on two adults and two children under 12 years old sharing.

It is worth noting though that the spa facilities are not included.

From £212 per room.

Mallory Court, Leamington Spa

Surrounded by gardens, Mallory Court Hotel is pretty to just look at.

Then, once inside, there are 42 individually styled bedrooms with a traditional country house feel.

There is a spa as well with a pool and gym.

For a bite to eat, you can head to The Warwick which is run by MasterChef winner Stu Deeley.

Over February half-term, children under the age of 10 can stay for free when sharing a room with an adult.

And included in the stay is bed and breakfast accommodation and designated family pool times.

To benefit from the offer, you must call to book.

Langstone Cliff Hotel, Dawlish, Devon

Set in 19 acres of woodlands, the Langstone Cliff Hotel in Dawlish, Devon boasts spectacular views of the sea.

Nearby there are sandy beaches to explore, which can be reached via a short walk.

There’s lots to do at the hotel as well, including an indoor and an outdoor pool, and both indoor and outdoor play areas for children.

During the half-term break, kids under 10-years-old stay free when sharing with two adults.

Rooms start from around £123 per night.

The Grove, Watford

If you fancy something a little more luxury, The Grove is a great option.

The five-star hotel is just 18 miles from London and used to be the home of the Earls of Clarendon.

In total, there are 214 rooms and suites, an 18-hole golf course, a spa and a number of restaurants.

Over half term, kids stay free when sharing with parents and get breakfast at The Glasshouse, two hours of free childcare for kids aged two to nine, use of the Sequoia Spa and use of Asher’s Woodland Trails.

The offer runs from February 13 to 22 and costs from £550 per room.

The Fish Hotel, Broadway, The Cotswolds

This back-to-nature retreat looks over the village of Broadway in the Cotswolds.

The hotel has 500 acres to explore, as well as a number of activities and well-being classes.

There are a range of rooms to choose from too, such as treehouses, suites and huts.

When it comes to having something to eat there are a couple of options on site, including a bar and lounge and Hook – a seafood-focused restaurant.

Kids stay for free between February 13 and 22 with rooms costing from £340 based on two adults and a child sharing.

Britannia Hotels, various locations

Britannia Hotels has locations across the country and between February 13 and 22, kids under 14-years old stay for free when sharing a room with two adults.

Breakfast is included and so are kids meals.

Though if you stay on a Saturday night at Royal Court Hotel; Prince of Wales Hotel Southport; Britannia Airport Hotel Manchester; Norbreck; Castle Hotel Blackpool; Grand Hotel Scarborough; Grand Hotel Llandudno; Carrington House Hotel Bournemouth or Grand Hotel Blackpool – there will be a £10 supplement.

Otherwise, rooms cost from £59 per night.

The Swan at Lavenham, Sudbury 

Inside a 15th century building, The Swan at Lavenham is a cosy hotel with traditional oak beams and large fireplaces.

There are 46 rooms to choose from, with period features in each.

There is also a spa with an outdoor heated pool, steam room and sauna.

The hotel is dog-friendly too so your beloved furry friend doesn’t have to miss out.

Children stay free between February 15 and 21 and also get breakfast for free.

Rooms cost around £254 per night.

Watergate Bay Hotel, Newquay, North Cornwall

Watergate Bay Hotel in Cornwall is the ultimate surfers spot on Watergate Beach, which stretches over two miles long.

Just metres from the beach, guests can enjoy relaxing rooms with views of the sea.

Some even have roll-top baths, hanging chairs and seating around a large fire.

For kids, the hotel features a games room with a Lego station and there is a play area as well.

Kids stay for free when sharing an adult double room between February 13 and 21.

Rooms cost from £280 per night during the half-term.

The Alverton, Truro, Cornwall

The Alverton in Truro, Cornwall, is a Grade-II listed hotel with a cosy feel.

Inside, there are classic rooms and executive suites, as well as a bar, restaurant and terrace.

Over the February half-term, kids under 12-years-old stay for free and also get a Cornish breakfast each morning of their stay.

There are two room types in the offer to choose from.

Firstly, the classic room which costs from £110 based on one adult and one child sharing.

Or, secondly, the executive suites, costing from £203 based on two adults and two children sharing.

Holiday Inn, various locations

Holiday Inns are great for budget travel or if you are heading off on holiday but want to stay near the airport before your flight.

Perfect for half-term trips out of the country, kids under the age of 17-years-old stay for free during the school break when sharing a room with up to two adults.

Kids under 12-years-old also get free meals during their stay.

Prices vary depending on Location, but as an example you could stay at Holiday Inn London Bexley for £68 per night.

The Belfry, Sutton Coldfield, West Midlands,

The four-star Belfry Hotel & Resort sits in 550 acres of countryside and is well-known for its world-class golf.

The hotel features over 300 rooms, as well as a Fire and Ice spa with a 12-room thermal journey, restaurants such as Ryder Grill and Sam’s Club House.

If you are heading on holiday from Birmingham Airport, the hotel is ideal to stay at the night before as it is less than 20 minutes away.

To get the offer, you will need to use the promo code ‘FAMILYPROMO’.

Rooms cost from £259 per night and include breakfast, buffet dinner, kids’ activities and access to the leisure club (but not spa).

Carlyon Bay Hotel, Cornwall

With 86 luxury rooms, Carlyon Bay Hotel in Cornwall is a great spot for families as it has a large entertainment programme.

There’s magic shows and an appearance from Chloe the Clown…

For the adults, there is also a golf course and a large spa.

Kids under 15-years-old stay for free between February 14 and 22, with a room and breakfast costing from £85 per night.

Kids under 15-years-old also get to eat for free during their stay.

Included in your stay is access to the supervised Funzone, a complimentary round of golf and use of the spa and leisure facilities which features an indoor pool.

A room and breakfast costs from £85 per person per night (so from £170 per night for two adults and two children).

In other hotel news, here’s 12 of our favourite UK hotels to visit this year – from cosy farm retreats to £55 all-inclusives in London.

Plus, the affordable seaside hotel right by the train station.

WHEN it comes to family holidays parents want plenty of entertainment, splash parks and great food – and you’d expect all this to come at a cost.

However, not all hotels have to break the bank, and a woman who knows how to be savvy with holidays is Jenna Carr aka ‘Travel Mum’ who is constantly finding the best deals and shares how others can do the same.

Jenna has travelled all over the world with her young family finding super cheap deals and the best locations for kids along the way.

She’s documented all her top tips on The Travel Mum – and there will be even more in her book ‘Yes You Can Travel With Kids‘ which will be released on February 12, 2026.

Jenna has two children ages six and one, so there are a few necessities when it comes to book hotels from splash pools, kids’ clubs and of course, being affordable.

Talking to Sun Travel, Jenna revealed some of her top hotels – some of which still have spaces this half-term.

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Jenna said: “The best all-inclusive, cheap, hotel I’ve been to was AluaSun Costa Park in Torremolinos.

“The Costa del Sol is always great for cheap hotels and this one was all-inclusive. We didn’t go during the school holidays, so it wasn’t busy either.

“It was a really easy pick because it was so close to the airport with a short transfer time, and a free shuttle that went down to the beach.

“There was a little splash park for the kids too and the food was good.”

The AluaSun Costa Park hotel sits on the Costa Del Sol, in Torremolinos.

It has a seasonal outdoor swimming pool surrounded by a sun terrace filled with loungers – and for kids, there’s a big splash park.

It’s within walking distance of two beaches; Playa de los Álamos and Playa de la Carihuela.

With HolidayGems you can still book a full-board five-night holiday for a family of four for £401.65pp.

Flights depart on February 17 returning on February 22, 2026.

If you don’t want all meals included, you can book a three-night stay at the AluaSun Costa Park from February 18 with loveholidays from £189pp (with breakfast included).

Hold off until Easter holidays and you can get an all-inclusive break at the AluaSun Costa Park from £305pp for a family of four.

Flights leave on March 31 from London Luton returning on April 4, 2025 – you can book this deal through On the Beach.

One of Jenna’s top all-inclusive stays was in Agadir where she paid just £600 for her family of three at the time.

She said: “Allegro Agadir was amazing, it was very cheap and cheerful and right on the beach.

“It was just the three of us at the time and we paid £600 for a five-night all-inclusive.

“That didn’t include flights though, we did it DIY.”

The hotel is a short walk from the beach where there are complimentary sunbeds for hotel guests.

There are also two outdoor pools including one for children along with a buffet restaurant and three bars.

On Booking.com a family of four can stay at the Allegra Agadir for three-nights at £601 with an all-inclusive deal (flights not included) from February 16, 2026.

This works out at just £50pppn.

If you book in advance now for October half-term a family of four can stay at the Allegra Agadir from £972 with an all-inclusive deal (flights not included) – which works out at £48pppn.

Or, a five-night all-inclusive package with loveholidays starts from £589pp with flights departing on October 26, 2026.

Another top pick when it comes to hotels for Jenna was the GF Victoria in Tenerife.

She told us: “It was fantastic and so good for families, especially the restaurant.

“There was a play area right next door with a glass wall. So when the kids start whining they’re finished and want to get up and go – you can finish your meal and let them play.

“There was a huge kids’ buffet with all the beige stuff they love. And there was a baby club along with a kids’ club.

“It was a holiday for us rather than a promotion, but I ended up promoting it anyway because it was such a great place – I had to tell everyone about it.”

Guests can enjoy the great weather in Tenerife at one of the four swimming pools, splash park and aqua park.

Inside is a baby club, mini club with a racing track, teen club with games like table football and air hockey.

There are also six bars and three restaurants across the resort all with children’s menus.

For more of the best best affordable holiday deals for families throughout the week, head to thetravelmum.com

Jen Carr, family travel expert and founder of The Travel Mum, shares the best affordable holiday deals for families throughout the week. https://thetravelmum.com

Jen’s new book ‘Yes You Can Travel With Kids’ is available launches February 12, 2026 and is available to preorder on Amazon.

For more on great family stays – check out the top-rated hotel named the best for families with colouring stations for kids and baby concierge.

And is this the best family hotel in Europe? The ‘insane’ resort has six floors of play zones, mini Land Rovers & a water park.

Passport control delays are being reported at airports across Europe

Holidaymakers jetting off to European destinations are being cautioned about potential delays at airports and passport control areas. The hold-ups are due to the implementation of a new biometric border system across the European Union (EU). Nations are struggling to adapt to the European Entry/Exit System (EES), which is gradually being rolled out across EU countries.

The EES, set to replace the traditional passport stamp for non-EU visitors, including those from the UK, has been slowly introduced since October 2025, with approximately one third of all EU countries now utilising it.

However, issues such as staffing shortages, kiosk congestion, and terminal layout problems at major airports are believed to be causing delays of up to six hours for some travellers. As a result, the European Commission has discreetly postponed the full implementation date from April 2026 to September 2026.

Three-hour delays have been reported at Geneva Airport, a hotspot for British skiers during this season. A spokesperson acknowledged that implementing the EES had posed a ‘major challenge for Swiss customs and Geneva Airport’, according to the BBC.

Delays are also cropping up in the Canary Islands, another favourite destination among Brits. Olivier Jankovec, director general of Airports Council International Europe, stated that border control processing times have increased four to fivefold under the EES, with people typically waiting up to two hours.

He attributed the problems to insufficient staffing and faulty equipment, warning that queues could stretch to six hours during the busy summer months unless improvements were made. However, Markus Lammert, European Commission spokesperson for Internal Affairs, maintained the system had functioned ‘largely without issues’.

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The Association of British Travel Agents (ABTA) highlighted that border officials weren’t fully utilising their powers to scale back checks when required. The organisation urged authorities to develop better contingency strategies for peak periods and ensure frontline personnel properly understand regulations and their flexibility to implement them.

An ABTA spokesperson explained: “The underuse of the measures has meant that there have been occasions where passengers have unnecessarily been caught up in lengthy delays going through passport control, which can have a knock-on impact for their onward travel.

“Under the contingency measures, border authorities are allowed to stand down the system, or limit the number or extent of checks, to avoid significant disruption and large queues.”

This development follows the Home Office releasing guidance for the 1.26million Britons who currently possess dual citizenship. Starting 25 February 2026, dual British nationals must present either a valid British passport or Certificate of Entitlement when entering the UK.

The Home Office cautioned that carriers would be verifying passengers hold appropriate documentation.

Ashley Polson, from Swansea, recently climbed a famous mountain. Though he was happy to take on the trek, as was left floored after making an unexpected discovery at the top

Pen y Fan stands as one of Wales’ most beloved hiking destinations, drawing adventurers who’ve braved the ascent in all sorts of conditions. Ashley Polson, from Swansea, is among those who’ve experienced just how demanding the climb can be, having recently shared footage of his morning expedition.

Just days ago, he made his way to the Brecon Beacons to take in the views from the renowned peak, only to encounter an unexpected twist. Upon reaching the summit at 10am, he confessed it was “absolutely Baltic”, and that was merely the beginning of his tale.

Ashley isn’t alone in recording the challenges faced on the mountain. Only months earlier, another hiker revealed that Pen y Fan doesn’t always live up to expectations.

In footage posted to TikTok, Ashley remarked: “While you’re all tucked up in bed, in the warm, I’m up here. Pen y Fan. Oh my god, it is freezing up here.

“I’m up here today for a walk event, some people are running. I’m just walking, I’ve got my sticks. I don’t know if you can hear me, but that’s the top up there.

“It’s snowing. To be honest with you, I feel like I’m going to get blown off before I get back down. I was going to say lovely views up Pen y Fan, but it’s f*****g freezing. So yeah, lovely morning walk, great.”

Ashley cheekily titled his video “scenic walk up Pen y Fan”, seemingly poking fun at the reality that visibility was virtually non-existent. The weather conditions meant he was robbed of the panoramic views, with thick fog obscuring everything.

Life doesn’t always go according to plan. Fortunately, Ashley maintained his sense of humour throughout, appearing upbeat despite being greeted by nothing but a wall of mist instead of the anticipated scenery.

His clip clearly resonated with viewers, racking up hundreds of views. Many were quick to leave comments sharing their own experiences.

One viewer remarked: “I’ve been there. It’s so cold.” Meanwhile, another expressed Welsh pride, commenting: “At our doorstep.”

Ashley responded: “We’re lucky to have all this local.” It’s evident he takes pride in residing in such a stunning nation, though moments like these are undeniably amusing.

Ashley may be familiar to some, as he’s gained recognition for creating viral content about Wales alongside his brother. The duo regularly entertain online audiences with their comedic sketches and humorous footage.

Where is Pen y Fan?

For those unfamiliar, Pen y Fan rises to 886 metres (2,907 ft) and sits within the Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park. It holds the distinction of being the tallest peak in South Wales and southern Britain.

The location draws countless walkers thanks to its spectacular vistas and demanding yet manageable trails. A four-mile circular path proves particularly appealing to visitors.

In terms of difficulty, the trek ranks as moderately to seriously challenging. Walkers should expect sharp inclines, rocky ground and frequently waterlogged paths.

Although accessible throughout most of the year, its popularity means arriving during morning is advisable to dodge the masses.