Just a 15–20 minutes transfer from the airport, Hundfjället is easy to get to and simple to navigate.
The resort is designed with families in mind.
This means features such as Valle the Snowman and Trollskogen, an enchanting forest filled with wooden trolls and storybook creatures as children make their way down the slopes.
And when having a break from skiing, children can enjoy tubing, mini snowmobiles, or relaxing at the hotel’s spa.
Seven nights at SkiStar Lodge Hundfjället with return flights, 20kg hold luggage and transfers from £1,233pp.
Best for Beginners
Soldeu, Andorra
Soldeu offers calm, family-friendly skiing, with the main gondola taking visitors straight to nursery slopes and the ski school.
Wide green and blue runs through the trees make progression easy.
And younger kids can build confidence in the playful Baba Boom Circus area, complete with obstacles and fun features.
Seven nights at Apartamentos Prat De Les Molleres with return flights, 23kg hold luggage and transfers from £1,615pp.
Rauris, Austria
A peaceful, compact resort, Rauris is perfect for first-time skiers.
Everything is within walking distance – from family-run accommodation to the gondola and ski school.
Children can learn on the nursery slopes, progress to gentle blue runs with panoramic views, or have fun on the mini racetrack.
Off-slope activities include sleigh rides, ice climbing, and snowshoeing under the stars.
Seven nights at Hotel Rauriserhof with return flights, 20kg hold luggage and transfers from £997pp.
Soldeu has lots of blue and green runsCredit: Getty
Best for Alpine Charm & Comfort
Obergurgl, Austria
High in the Austrian Alps, Obergurgl combines alpine charm with family convenience.
Quiet slopes and excellent ski schools help children gain confidence quickly, while parents enjoy high-quality hotels, hearty Tyrolean cuisine, and stunning mountain views.
Family-friendly facilities like pools and playrooms add extra appeal, and reliable snow cover keeps everyone happy all season.
Seven nights at Obergurgl, Austria with return flights, 20kg hold luggage and transfers from £1,967pp.
Flaine, France
Flaine has both sunny slopes and reliable snow, ideal for beginners and families.
Kids can enjoy Crystal Childcare while exploring beginner areas, and there’s plenty to keep everyone entertained off the slopes – from ice skating and bowling to magical dog sled rides.
And with accommodation near the lifts it ensures a smooth and comfortable stay.
Seven nights at Dormio Resort Les Portes du Grand Massif with return flights, 20kg hold luggage and transfers from £1,770pp.
Obergurgl has great ski schoolsCredit: AlamyAnd Flaine has lots of hotels near the slopes so you don’t have to go too farCredit: Getty
Best for Off-Slope Fun
Zell am See, Austria
Set beside a pretty lake, Zell am See combines scenic beauty with family-friendly adventures.
Kids can ski in Schmidolin’s Dragon Park, with themed fun runs and a dragon mascot.
Families can also enjoy sleigh rides, an alpine rollercoaster, and explore the lively lakeside town.
It even has one of Austria’s largest ski schools, so the resort caters to all abilities.
Seven nights Boutique Hotel Martha with return flights, 23kg hold luggage and transfers from £1,164pp.
La Plagne, France
La Plagne is perfect for families that want a more gentle terrain with beginner-friendly runs.
But there is lots to do off the slopes too including ice skating, igloo villages, and even an ice grotto on the glacier.
There is a huge variety of accommodation options and welcoming resorts ensure comfort for all ages.
Seven nights at Premium Residence Les Hauts Bois, Plagne Aime 2000 with return flights, 20kg hold luggage and transfers from £507pp.
Make sure to try the red cable car lift in Zell am SeeCredit: GettyLe Plagne is great for beginnersCredit: Getty
When you come to the Dolomites for winter walking, it’s with the intention of having spellbinding snow-streaked peaks that are unlike anything else in the Alps as your constant companion. But with impenetrable cloud and heavy rain forecast, it was hard not to feel deflated.
Then again, this was Italy, where it’s easy to make the best of things whatever the weather. And the 3 Zinnen Dolomites ski resort and nature park – right on Italy’s border with Austria, about two-and-a-half hours north of Venice, is always charming, with the usual jumble of cultures you see in South Tyrol. Part Italian, it’s more Austrian thanks to the legacy of the Habsburgs, who ruled this part of Italy until 1918. Hence most places have an Austrian and an Italian name, 3 Zinnen or Tre Cime (meaning three peaks) being a case in point. It’s the home of Ladin, an ancient Romance language, too.
Illustration: Guardian Graphics
Of the five villages that make up 3 Zinnen Dolomites, I was staying in the largest, San Candido (or Innichen), which looked as Austrian as could be – onion-domed church and pastel-coloured, richly detailed houses you would see in Salzburg. Even under leaden skies, it was a pretty place, its pedestrianised centre filled with classy shops selling cashmere and leather goods and, happily, an impressive number of delis stocking high-quality (but not necessarily high-priced) regional food. The sort that makes you want to move to Italy.
San Candido is in the shadow of some of the Dolomites’ most dramatic peaks. Photograph: Matteo Martinazzoli/Alamy
Keeping an eye on the weather was simple from my balcony at Hotel Leitlhof overlooking San Candido, with a view of the village’s ski slope and snippets of the Dolomites between the clouds. All five villages are connected by bus and some by train, with links to 3 Zinnen’s various ski areas, cross-country ski trails and high-altitude walking trails that don’t even require snowshoes.
One of those buses took me to Signaue, where I caught glimpses of faintly blue sky as the cable car whizzed me up to Stiergarten at 2,100m. Turning my back on the skiers at the top, I followed a signposted walking trail that took me slowly back down the mountain. The only other prints in the fresh snow were of a four-legged creature, possibly a hare or a fox. Occasionally, the clouds would swirl and a rugged peak would poke into view before being obscured again. But in this winter wonderland, those atmospheric clouds were playing as much of a starring role as the mountains they were shrouding.
The only sound was my boots in the snow as I descended into pine woods. Light snow was falling again and it whetted my appetite for lunch at Skihütte Henn-Stoll (or Baita Pollaio) at the foot of the cable car. I fell on a plate of Knödel/canederli – dumplings packed with cheese and melted butter served with a cabbage salad flavoured with caraway seeds. This was classic Ladin mountain comfort food.
The writer on the path down from Stiegarten. Photograph: Adam Batterbee
March’s longer days meant the sun hadn’t quite set on San Candido when it was time for the early-evening passeggiata and aperitivo. Thrillingly, it actually made an appearance, bringing a warm glow to the mountains rising behind those beautiful Austrian-style houses before dusk exposed the full moon to midnight-blue skies. Pure magic.
The next morning I took the bus to the cable car in the neighbouring village of Versciaco (Vierschach), another 3 Zinnen ski area. At Helm (or Monte Elmo), I stumbled into Narnia: a trail through pine woods. It was soothing to shuffle gently through the snow and think about lunch.
At the rear of Helm Restaurant, beyond the self-service area, was the gourmet section, which was only about 10% more expensive and a lot quieter. Chunky ridged swirls of maccheroncini pasta came with a veal ragù, porcini and a dusting of hazelnuts, and the South Tyrolean rye flatbread called Schüttelbrot which zinged with fennel and cumin. The robust flavours were a perfect match for the misty mountains.
Opening the curtains on my last morning was like waking up on Christmas Day. Snow had covered everything. I was on the bus to Val Fiscalina to follow a trail through larch forests. As it was Saturday, I seemed to have been joined by half the population, all apparently with the same destination – Talschlusshütte, a charmingly rustic restaurant in the woods (open Christmas to Easter). I had been warned not to be late and lose my table; since San Candido local boy Jannik Sinner became the world No 1 tennis player and word went out that his father had been the chef at Talschlusshütte, the restaurant’s popularity has soared, even if Sinner Senior is no longer in the kitchen.
Spinach dumplings (knödel) with cream cheese and speck are a local speciality. Photograph: Fabrizio Troiani/Alamy
Whoever was in the kitchen knew how to make a mean bacon knödelandthe clear herby broth it was served in. The penne with the house ragù of aubergines, courgettes and mushrooms was piled high, turning me into a contented dumpling.
Buoyed up by grappa that tasted more like herby génépi, I walked back to the bus. The clouds were on the move. I turned round to catch a glimpse of a mountain, then another, then another. Finally, just hours before I was to go home, the 3 Zinnen – or Tre Cime, three peaks – revealed themselves in all their jagged glory. I whooped in joy, then turned round again and they were gone.
Seaton in Devon is a charming coastal town that comes to life at Christmas with light displays, festive workshops and a Polar Express tram ride that’s perfect for kids
Seaton is gorgeous for a weekend getaway(Image: Getty)
When it comes to Christmas holidays, if you’re looking to get away you might think of snowy Lapland or the bustling festivities of London.
However, there is one charming UK town that comes to life at Christmas.
It’s a true hidden gem in Devon and has plenty to explore over the festive season – as well as plenty of cosy cottages and pubs to warm up in and enjoy.
This stunning spot is Seaton on the east coast of Devon, a quaint fishing village that goes all out at Christmas.
There’s light displays, Christmassy workshops and a lovely welcoming community who are more than happy to show you around their beloved town, reports the Express.
Gemma Matthews, owner of Dorset & Devon Holiday Cottages, said: “There’s always plenty of events to experience in the run-up to the big day. Everything from wreath-making workshops, to pantomime and even Christmas park runs.
There’s really something for everyone to enjoy!”.
“The shopping at Seaton’s independent shops, Christmas fairs and markets is always a real highlight – it gives the perfect opportunity to find unique gifts and sample some of our local produce.”
If you have little ones, or you’re a kid at heart, then you can’t miss Seaton’s own Polar Express – a festively decorated tramcar that serves up hot chocolate and treats before taking riders to the ‘North Pole’ where they can meet Santa and his elves.
Gemma said: “The tramway is a must-visit at this time of year, their Polar Express ride will leave little ones in awe! Just like in the story, every guest gets to take home a silver sleigh bell, which is such a lovely memory of Seaton to look back on in years to come, to keep the magic alive.”
Should you time your visit perfectly, you’ll be able to witness the annual illumination of the Christmas lights which occurs on November 30 at 5:30pm.
Gemma remarked the lights transform the entire town into something resembling a fairytale scene “straight from a Christmas card.”
She added: “It’s quieter here in the winter compared to the summer months, but that just adds to the cosy, small-town charm and offers a much-needed tranquil escape from the bustling city markets and festive tourist hotspots frequently visited at this time of year.
“If you’re looking for an enchanting Christmas visit, Seaton is a must.”
There are heaps of fun theme parks and attractions in the UK to enjoy but there are a handful that would have been great yet unfortunately plans had to be abandoned
Plans for the London Resort never came to fruition(Image: Paramount London / SWNS)
The UK is full of amazing attractions, both old and new, from historic palaces to theme parks and world-class museums. But not every idea manages to get off the ground.
There were many large-scale projects that could have potentially become major tourist landmarks, which sadly, either failed due to cost or logistics. We’re talking theme parks that were said to have the potential to rival Disneyland, weird and wonderful pyramids, and giant bridges that cost millions but never actually opened.
We look at some of the incredible attractions that could have been gamechangers, but sadly didn’t manage to see the light of day (even if we’re still hoping!).
Check out our top picks below…
WonderWorld theme park
In the 1980s, a £346m plan to turn an old quarry into the ‘British Disneyland’ was hatched. The site of this ambitious project was Corby, Northants, where the abandoned quarry was connected to the town’s closed steelworks. The collapse of the steelworks had led to 10,000 job losses, and with a third of the town out of work, the theme park was cited as a way to get locals back into employment.
WonderWorld is said to have been inspired by Disney’s Epcot, and was set to have 13 themed villages, the first six of which would have opened in 1992. The idea was to showcase the best of British design, with David Bellamy set to help devise a mock safari, while Sir Patrick Moore would have helped design an observatory.
There would be a mix of the educational and fun, high-tech rides, themed restaurants, shops, and much more, which it would estimate would bring in four million visitors a year through the park gates.
The ambitious plans also included a 10,000 seat stadium for sporting events, and a Disney-style family resort with seven hotels, which would eventually offer 6,000 rooms and 100 holiday villas.
Sadly, all that was ever built of WonderWorld was a sign and a wooden cabin. Planning delays and rising costs were blamed, with backers soon pulling out. The site which would have been WonderWorld is now a new build estate, with nothing to indicate that it could have been the site of a major British attraction.
Garden Bridge
While a failed project can waste a lot of time, London’s Garden Bridge project also managed to waste a lot of money along the way. £53.5m was spent on a bridge which never broke ground, after many years trying to turn the idea into reality.
London’s Garden Bridge would have been a pedestrian bridge set between Waterloo Bridge and Blackfriars Bridge. The idea was it would be covered in shrubbery and flowers, creating a sort of park area you could wander round, rather than just crossing from A to B.
The project was such a disaster that Transport for London (TfL) launched an inquiry, which concluded that £43m of the sunk costs came from the public’s pocket. The failed project’s spends included £21.4m in construction costs and £1.7m in executive salaries, according to BBC reports.
The Garden Bridge Trust also spent £161,000 on a website and £417,000 on a gala for the failed proposal. Had it been built, the project was projected to cost £175m overall.
The idea for the bridge dates back to 1998, when actor Joanna Lumley had the idea for a “floating paradise” that would be built in honour of Princess Diana. But it wasn’t until 2012, when Boris Johnson was Mayor of London, that the unusual project was picked up.
While they managed to secure planning permission in 2014, the project had a number of vocal critics who complained that it would have had an impact on sight lines of St Paul’s Cathedral and Monument.
When Sadiq Khan took over as mayor, he ordered a review as to whether the bridge would offer good value for money for Londoners, before withdrawing his support the next year. The cancellation of the project was officially announced on August 14, 2017.
Trafalgar Square Pyramid
Trafalgar Square could have looked very different if one MP and soldier had seen their plans come to fruition. After beating the French at the Battle of the Nile, Sir Frederick William Trench decided that what London really needed was a giant pyramid right in the middle of Trafalgar Square to really celebrate their military success.
The proposal, submitted in 1812, shows a 300ft pyramid with 22 steps, one for each year of the two Anglo-French wars. At the time, the tallest structure in London would have been the Dome at St Paul’s Cathedral which was 365ft, meaning the pyramid would have completely changed the London skyline.
One idea to turn the plan into reality was to use the labour of men who’d recently been discharged from the armed forces, giving them employment once the war was over. However, the only thing that was ever built was a scale model, which ended up in the home of the Duke of York. A few years later, the land was cleared and the version of Trafalgar Square that brings in millions of visitors a year was created. But there’s no doubt the giant pyramid would have brought in the tourists too.
London Paramount Entertainment Resort
A more recent attempt to build a giant theme park in the UK was the London Resort, which was announced in 2012. Its location in Swanscombe, Kent led to some dubbing it the ‘Dartford Disneyland’, and it was set to include Europe’s largest indoor water park, theatres, live music venues, attractions, cinemas, restaurants, event spaces and hotels.
The park would have had several worlds including a Spaceport, The Isles, The Kingdom, and High Street, all themed around the UK. Another planned attraction was a triple launched roller coaster that would reach speeds of 70mph.
The park’s troubles continued during the planning process, when Natural England decided to designate a large portion of the planned park area as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).
In 2022, it was reported that plans for the park were scaled back, and would be resubmitted the next year. Its company, London Resort Company Holdings (LRCH), then went into administration and faced a lawsuit from Paramount. Finally, in January 2025, it was reported that the High Court had ordered the company to be wound up, effectively killing off the dream of the £2.5b London Resort.
Mark Jeffries visited Saint Lucia and enjoyed a wild few days of fabulous food, festivals and fun. He stayed at the Sandals Grande St Lucian and was amazed by the offering
Blow away any hangovers with a walk on nearby Snettisham Beach in NorfolkCredit: Alamy Stock PhotoFfolkespa, at former coaching inn Ffolkes, is a vibe and a halfCredit: DANIELLA SELF
THE LOWDOWN
Set in the sleepy village of Hillingdon, Ffolkespa, at former coaching inn Ffolkes, is a vibe and a half.
Think bold splashes of colour, neon lights, disco balls and graffiti-decorated crazy golf.
The rooms are well equipped with super-king beds and a smart TV that swivels from bed to bath tubCredit: DANIELLA SELF
Aside from the super-king beds, a smart TV that swivels from bed to bath tub (which is big enough for two, btw), home-made shortbread cookies, a drench shower and Templespa toiletries, our fave thing was our room’s door straight into the spa, which gave us Narnia feels, too.
Talking of the spa, the giant hot tub complete with a bar made us feel like we were on our hols while sipping Revitalise smoothies of avocado, mango, spinach, broccoli, coconut, lime and ginger, £5.50, quickly followed by Hugo Spritzes, £10.
We were also big fans of the aroma steam room and the pre-steam salt scrubs, which left us with baby-soft skin for days.
Group sauna rituals featuring storytelling and scents hosted by a “sauna master” are quirky, £10 per person, and the “disco” toilets, where a smoke machine, flashing lights and loud tunes turn on at the press of a button are also very fun.
Most importantly, the My Kinda Skin facial, £80 for 45 minutes, left me glowing, and the afternoon street tea, £27.50 per person, is legendary, too, with cheeseburger sausage rolls, choc-chip scones, plus jalapeño and cheese scones with chilli butter.
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Street-food traders take over come evening – we tucked into outstanding (and huge) onion, potato and kale bhajis topped with yoghurt, tamarind and pomegranate, £8, and beef keema roti kebabs with masala fries and a dal dip, £16.50.
WHAT WE DIDN’T LOVE
Enjoy tea time vibes at FfolkesCredit: Supplied by PR
The coffee pod machines at breakfast were disappointing when all we craved was a proper barista hit.
What’s more, the poached eggs were made to order, but still a bit rubbery.
OUT & ABOUT
Snettisham Beach is a natural haven for an array of wading birdsCredit: Shutterstock / tony mills
Blow away any hangovers with a walk on nearby Snettisham Beach, which is a natural haven for an array of wading birds (Rspb.org.uk/days-out/reserves/snettisham).
Follow it up with a chip butty at Snettisham Beach Fish And Chip Shop, £2.70.
Or hand-feed the beautiful red deer on a safari among the herd of more than 60 at lush Snettisham Park.
There are plenty of farm animals to visit on the 329-acre site, too.
Norfolk Lavender in Heacham is equally close, with around 100 acres of peaceful gardens, not forgetting a cracking lavender sponge cake, £4.95 a slice (Norfolk-lavender.co.uk).
As is the historic town of King’s Lynn – follow its Maritime Trail from cobbled lanes to the Great Ouse river.
After working up an appetite, Mem’s Kitchen on Market Place serves delicious spinach and feta filo parcels, £7.95, and a super seafood casserole with calamari, mussels, king prawns, baby prawns and salmon, £20.95.
LET the festive fun begin, with this year’s Christmas attractions bigger and brighter than ever.
Dazzling light and music trails, marvellous markets, winter wonderlands, super Santa steam trains, pantos and ice rinks have popped up all over the UK.
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Wallace & Gromit are getting in on the fun at Longleat’s Festival of LightCredit: lloydwintersphoto.com
Trisha Harbord picks out a selection of events to make Christmas go with a ho, ho, ho.
LIGHT UP YOUR LIFE
ASHRIDGE HOUSE
SEE a stunning light trail from the air.
A 115ft observation wheel is at the heart of 20 spectacular displays at Ashridge House Illuminated this winter.
The sparkling one-mile trail winds through the estate’s beautiful gardens in Berkhamsted, Herts, with a super-festive food village.
The theme parks, in Warrington, Cheshire, Milton Keynes and Rotherham, Yorks, have been transformed into 12 dream worlds, including a Jurassic zone, filled with glowing lanterns and installations.
Santa’s enchanted elevator will take you on a virtual flight to the North Pole.
GO: Until January 31. Adult from £39, and from £9 for child.
The beloved book character is included in spectacular displays, featuring ten wild habitats from eight continents at Twycross Zoo, Leicestershire.
Have some Gruffalo fun at Twycross ZooCredit: Supplied
Lanterns Of The Wild has more than 2,000 lanterns in rainforests and oceans depicting thousands of animals and plants including elephants, monkeys and penguins.
GO: Until February 22. Adult from £19, child £13.95.
F1 fans will be racing to get to Silverstone for the return of its Lap Of Lights experience.
After a four-year hiatus, the festive display is back, with 7,000 LED panels and 35 lasers, transforming the British racetrack into a glittering wonderland.
Visitors can drive their own car around the track, before heading to the ice rink or chomping on some mince pies at the food and drink garage.
GO: From December 12 until January 3, £50 per car.
STEAM along on a new Santa Express interactive adventure.
The ride on North Yorkshire Moors Railway, from Pickering, will be packed with games, songs and, of course, elves and the man himself handing out treats.
ENJOY a showstopping performance of a Christmas Carol at Keighley & Worth Valley Railway stations.
Families will find themselves in Scrooge’s candlelit office, in the grip of Marley’s ghost and watching the drama unfold on a five-mile steam train ride from Oxenhope or Haworth, West Yorks.
GO: Various dates and times until December 18. Adult £35, child £30.
The main market in Above Bar Street has more than 20 wooden chalets packed with gifts, festive food, hot chocolate and mulled wine.
There’s a Ferris wheel and a new 200ft Star Flyer ride, fairground, light show, shops’ snow window trail, ice rink, Santa visits and shows including a panto.
Sing and dance with Mr and Mrs Beaver, meet the reindeer, birds of prey and snowy owl, enjoy a theatre show, help elves in their workshop or take a break in the bar and kitchen.
Local producers, craftsfolk and artisans are among 80 stallholders in the Town Hall square selling gin, jewellery, candles, pottery, clothing and cosmetics.
Stall you need at Chester marketCredit: Supplied
The city also has a grotto and panto and the cathedral is aglow with nearly a hundred decorated trees.
GO: Market until December 22, free. See visitcheshire.com.
EDINBURGH MARKET & FUNFAIR
IT’S the most wonderful time of the year in Edinburgh.
The market, with Scottish and European crafts, fills East Princes Street Gardens.
There’s a funfair, undercover ice rink and light displays on the castle walls.
And a torchlight procession through the old town on December 29 kicks off Hogmanay.
CHEAP cocktails, mango sticky rice for £1.65 and trained monkeys picking coconuts – Koh Samui is nothing like the White Lotus fantasy I expected.
And that’s what makes it so brilliant.
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The Big Buddha statue dominates the skylineCredit: GettyThe island’s secret beaches are a delightCredit: GettySnorkeling through school of Indo-pacific sergeant fish in the ocean in Ko Samui, ThailandCredit: Getty
Sure, there are luxury resorts and picture-perfect beaches, but the real Thailand is in the busy beach bars flogging happy-hour deals, tiny restaurants with garish tablecloths, and the constant thump of Thai boxing promotions from crackling loudspeakers.
I stayed at the Anantara Lawana — where The White Lotus cast filmed bar scenes in its Singing Bird Lounge.
The hotel has a grand entrance with a gong that you hit upon entering, a private beach scattered with sunbeds, an infinity pool and a peaceful spa.
Some rooms have swim-up pools and I admit I’ve become partial to an outdoor shower — as long as it isn’t raining. In a hotel this perfect, with everything at your fingertips, it could be tempting not to leave.
My guide, Nong, called it “coconut island” — the island produces 200 million a year, many plucked by trained monkeys.
Over the next few days, he made sure I saw as much of the island as possible, though the furry labourers remained elusive.
Nong told me there are around 25 temples on the island — some are big tourist draws, others are tucked away in smaller communities where locals worship.
Most read in Beach holidays
Cheerful Buddha
We travelled all over Koh Samui hunting down these brightly coloured shrines.
At Wat Phra Yai sits the Big Buddha — a 40ft statue built in 1972 that dominates the skyline and can be seen from miles away.
Close by is the beautiful Wat Plai Laem complex, which has the 18-armed Guanyin and a cheerful Buddha statue.
Koh Samui is Thailand’s second-largest island, and you can drive around the ring road in about an hour — though you’d be rushing past some of the best bits.
We made lots of stops along the tour to take in the views.
The beaches lived up to expectations — Chaweng is one of the most popular — but there are many pockets of coast where you’ll find secret sandy spots and likely be the only people around.
We also visited the Elephant Kingdom Sanctuary, where 16 rescued elephants live out their days in comfort.
From a skywalk, I watched them splash in pools and demolish piles of bananas.
The Sun’s Alice Penwill loved the mango riceCredit: SuppliedTucked away along the streets are places serving up pad Thai and spicy tom yum soup, with cocktails for £2Credit: Supplied
Koh Samui also works as a jumping-off point for the surrounding islands.
We took a speedboat to Koh Nangyuan, a tiny protected marine park about 45 minutes away, where white sand connects three little peaks.
While most claimed their patch of beach, I went straight into the water.
The shallows are packed with coral, rainbow parrotfish and bright yellow butterflyfish — it’s the kind of place that justifies getting up early for a boat ride.
I also paid a visit to the northern side of the island , for a cooking class in Bo Phut.
I’m a disaster in the kitchen, so I was wary to get stuck in.
Pay a visit to the rescued elephantsCredit: GettyWalton Goggins and Aimee Lou Wood in The White LotusCredit: Alamy
But Chef Lat was enthusiastic and welcoming, and soon had me chopping lemongrass and frying prawns.
He demonstrated how to create a chicken and ginger curry, stir-fried prawns with yellow curry and a sweet, spicy papaya salad.
My new favourite, though is a massaman chicken curry. You eat everything you make, too.
Our days exploring the island were brilliant, but it was the street food that kept pulling me away from the White Lotus life back at the resort.
Tucked away along the streets are places serving up pad Thai and spicy tom yum soup, with cocktails for £2.
As for sweet treats, mango sticky rice is a revelation and, at £1.65 from street vendors, you’d be mad to miss it.
When the humidity becomes unbearable, coconut ice cream is a girl’s best friend.
When everything tastes this good and costs this little, the infinity pool can wait.
GO: KOH SAMUI
GETTING/STAYING THERE: Seven nights’ B&B at Anantara Lawana Koh Samui Resort in a Deluxe Lawana room starts from £1,236pp, including return flights from Gatwick on November 3 via Singapore with Singapore Airlines. See expedia.co.uk. OUT & ABOUT: All activities can be booked through the Expedia app. A six-hour private island tour is £68.94pp, the Samui Elephant Kingdom Ethical Sanctuary and Skywalk Tour is £65.20pp, a day trip to Koh Nangyuan and Koh Tao by speedboat starts at £48.13pp and the Thai cooking class is from £56.01pp.
WITH the UK’s weather’s getting wet and windy, I’ve found the perfect indoor attraction to go for all ages, right in the middle of the country.
As your kids get older, the normal soft play options just don’t hit the spot anymore – but thankfully some have had a glow up especially for teens.
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I took my kids to a ‘soft play’ that is great for all agesCredit: Catherine Lofthouse
So we visited Flip Out Coventry, which opened last Christmas, to see if it would get the thumbs up from my teen, tween and tiny.
Based in a former department store in a city centre shopping mall, you enter through a hall of mirrors and an arcade before exploring 13 attractions set over two floors of fun.
With a ninja warrior course, laser tag, bumper cars and drift trikes, I hardly saw the older two while we were there.
You know you’re onto a winner when the bank of PS5s loaded with games like Minecraft and Fifa don’t even get a look in, because your youngsters are too busy running from attraction to attraction.
I think the dark space and graffiti vibe of the upper floor really appealed to my 11-year-old and 13-year-old, feeling a bit more grown-up than the bright lights and primary colours of soft plays aimed at younger children.
But there was still lots to love for primary aged children here too.
My six-year-old enjoyed the inflatables, roller rink and football zone.
He was just tall enough to drive a dodgem by himself, so he spent a while whizzing around to his heart’s content.
The roller rink was a good chance for him to try out skating, with plenty of boots in all sizes.
And the drop slide to get from one storey to the other was a fun alternative to taking the stairs.
For little ones, there’s a dedicated toddler soft playnext to the cafe area, so they can play in safety while tired parents have a rest nearby, hot drink in hand.
Family tickets for two hours are normally £65 for four people or £80 for five.
But we bagged an absolute bargain on a discount days out website, buying a half price family pass for £32 – £8 per person for two hours of unlimited activities.
My spectator ticket meant I couldn’t take part in the activities, but you can redeem your £3 entry back against refreshments from the on-site diner.
It’s handy if you’ve got kids who are old enough to play by themselves but you want to stay close by to supervise.
I barely saw them for hours, they were having so much funCredit: Catherine LofthouseThere is still enough for little ones, but I loved the addition of the older teen areasCredit: Catherine Lofthouse
Looking at similar attractions elsewhere, you’d be paying around £8 to £10 per activity per person on a UK holiday park, so it’s great that you’ve got so much included in the price here and all under one roof.
If you’re not sure how your little ones will take to roller skating or if they will enjoy laser tag, you can let them have a quick go here and you won’t have wasted your money if it’s not their cup of tea, because they can move on to another activity.
The only downside to visiting the Coventry location is that it doesn’t have any trampolines, unlike a lot of its 35 sister sites across the UK.
A new Flip Out has only just opened in Leeds and there’s two more on the way in Wales and Scotland, so this could be a great indoor option, wherever you are in the country.
If you are heading to Coventry, Flip Out is just around the corner from The Wave, one of the UK’s largest indoor water parks.
While you’re in the area, I would recommend checking out Coventry’s Charterhouse, which was taken on by the National Trust earlier this year.
It’s a small but fascinating medieval monastic house, with a public playground just on the doorstep.
Also on my Coventry to-do list is adventure playground Hermit’s Hollow at Coombe Abbey Park, which has just become free to enter.
With family fun to be had at new attractions like Flip Out and Hermit’s Hollow, plus a refresh for established sites like Charterhouse and the Herbert, being sent to Coventry is a pleasure and not a punishment nowadays.
Next time its raining, try out one of the 35 Flip Outs in the UKCredit: Catherine Lofthouse
THE Good Hotel Guide has just announced its 2026 award winners – and we’ve got the inside track on the best places to stay across Britain.
Whether you’re after a cosy B&B, a cracking pub with rooms, or a proper hotel that won’t batter your bank balance, these are the spots that beat countless others to claim top honours.
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We’ve got the inside track on the best places to stay across BritainCredit: Getty
We’ve picked six brilliant winners from three categories – time to start planning your next escape.
BEST BUDGET HOTELS (under £150)
Georgian House Hotel, Pimlico, London
THESE Grade II listed townhouses near Buckingham Palace are posher than a B&B but way more chill than a typical hotel.
Best bit? A hidden bookcase door leads to wizard-themed basement chambers with four-posters draped in red velvet and wooden bunks carved with protective runes. Proper magic.
A MOTORWAY services hotel? Tebay is nothing like typical rest stops — when the M6 was built across their land in 1970, hill farmers John and Barbara Dunning created a business celebrating local producers.
Still family-run, it has 51 rooms, some with views of the Fells and others dog-friendly. Dine on aged native-breed ribeye, venison suet pudding or haddock and chips before exploring the Lakes.
Brockencote Hall delivers country-house luxury for way less than you might expectCredit: Supplied
THIS Victorian mansion is styled like a Loire château. Brockencote sits in 70 acres with a lake and tenniscourt and delivers country-house luxury for way less than you might expect.
Bedrooms come with concierge service, fridges, fruit and Temple Spa toiletries. Take afternoon tea in the French-inspired drawing room or splash out in the fine-dining restaurant. Dogs welcome.
WHILE some Cotswolds hotels come with a high price tag, this golden-stone Victorian building keeps things real. Family-run, it has 22 country-chic bedrooms, with ten in the coach house.
Relax in the lounge or garden, eat at the L’Anatra restaurant, serving, tapas and Italian classics. Guest parking is free.
The Grange at Oborne mixes classic and contemporary stylingCredit: Supplied
KARENZA and Ken Mathews’s country-house hotel is trad-comfort heaven. Rooms range from standard doubles to a junior suite, mixing classic and contemporary styling.
The restaurant keeps things tried and tested — pan-fried chicken with smoked bourbon barbecue sauce, warm Dorsetapple cake with blackberry jam. It’s family-run, with real charm.
THE Martinez family’s foodie hotel occupies a 12th-century Cistercian monastery in secluded gardens by the River Usk. It has 27 super-chic rooms in the main house, stables and dog-friendly cottage.
There are strong Spanish vibes, with tapas in the bar, while the restaurant serves flame-grilled steaks, barbecued lamb leg with jalapeño chimichurri, and tomato crème brûlée.
Rumour has it there’s a resident ghost — a monk who looks serenely happy.
PERCHED above Clifton Down, this Georgian merchant’s house is the perfect base for exploring Bristol. Owner Adam Dorrien-Smith has created something seriously special — super-stylish rooms in calming blues and greys, with velvet armchairs and either park views or city panoramas.
Some rooms come with a copper rolltop bath. Breakfast is a proper spread with fresh juices, homemade compotes and a full English.
PEAK District perfection — a cosy longhouse where tea and cakes by the fire are part of the deal. Owner Vivienne Taylor has created four fab bedrooms, three of them suites with separate lounges.
But it’s the breakfast that shines — Aga-cooked with locally sourced ingredients, homemade bread, rare-breed sausages and Derbyshire oatcakes to fuel your walks that start right from the front door.
DON’T let the tongue-twister name put you off. Robert Smith and Arwel Hughes have transformed a wartime land girls’ hostel into something special.
The four smart bedrooms are for over-16s only, each with a fridge stocked with treats. The real star? Dinner by arrangement — home-cooked, locally sourced, and you can even bring your own wine.
CHRIS BROOKS and Carla Regler swapped Cornwall for the Outer Hebrides — and what a move.
Their adults-only B&B sits beside Askernish golf course, surrounded by white sands and bathed in star-filled skies. With four spacious rooms, this is the perfect base for walking and wildlife-watching.
There’s a warm lounge with an honesty bar stocked with whiskies, and chef Chris cooks up a storm most nights. Morning brings freshly baked bread, and eggs from their own ducks and hens.
Daisybank Cottage is brilliantly family-friendlyCredit: Supplied
RIGHT now the New Forest’s free-roaming pigs are hoovering up acorns — as magical as watching the famous ponies trot past Cheryl and Ciaran Maher’s fairytale Arts and Crafts cottage in the village of Brockenhurst.
This single-storey gem is brilliantly family-friendly, with beautifully presented rooms. Each comes with an espresso machine and mini-fridge.
Write your breakfast wishes on paper, pop them in a flowerpot, and — like magic — they appear in the morning.
The Inn at Whitewell has bags of characterCredit: Supplied
THERE’S something special about this rambling stone inn sitting in five acres on the River Hodder.
Third-generation owner Charles Bowman keeps it traditional — local ales, open fires, flagstone floors. The bedrooms (all dog-friendly) have bags of character with antiques and fireplaces.
The menu jumps from Thai green curry to bangers and mash, and the fish pie is legendary.
THE hills are actually Roman burial mounds — the biggest in Britain. Chris and Sarah Field’s dog-friendly gastropub is the other reason to visit.
This revamped 17th-century alehouse overlooks landscaped gardens by the River Granta. Rooms are serene in soft greys and blues, with Roberts radios and power showers.
The menu covers pub classics plus options like venison ragù or courgette and pea pappardelle. Room only, doubles from £135. thethreehills.co.uk.
The Cricket Inn, Beesands, Devon
The Cricket Inn has bay windows overlooking Start BayCredit: Supplied
SCOTT and Rachael Heath’s cosy gastropub sits in a South Hams village.
Refurbished New England-style bedrooms have walk-in showers and espresso machines. Two suites feature hand-built four-posters.
The Oval Room has bay windows overlooking Start Bay and the lighthouse. Fish is landed virtually on the doorstep and there’s a seafood pancake you should try.
B&B doubles cost from £135. Check out three-nights-for-two deal at thecricketinn.com.
The Stag on the River, Eashing, Surrey
DINING beside the River Wey as it flows past this gorgeously refurbished 17th-century local is pretty unbeatable. Inside are oak beams, brick floors, original fireplaces and vintage prints of river birds.
The bedrooms are stylish with original features, bright fabrics, Roberts radios and rain showers. The menu runs from small plates (bang bang cauliflower, nduja Scotch egg) to fish pie and Sunday roasts.
YOUR hosts, brothers Charles and Edmund Inkin, welcome families and dogs to their dining pub with rooms between the Black Mountains and Brecon Beacons, close to Hay-on-Wye.
Eight simple, stylish bedrooms feature Welsh blankets, vintage furniture and local artworks with field or mountain views.
A HISTORIC railway tunnel in the UK has a new miniature train ride.
The Glenfield Railway Tunnel in Leicestershire originally opened in 1832 as part of the Leicester and Swannington Railway and this year it reopened with a new experience.
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The Glenfield Railway Tunnel is over a century oldCredit: Facebook
Visitors can head on tours of the first 365 metres of the disused railway tunnel for free (though donations are encouraged) and even head on a new miniature train for free as well, marking the first passenger services since 1928.
According to Time Out, the society’s chairman, Rodger Gaunt, said that interest “has been far beyond what we could have imagined”.
He added: “We think the tunnel is a hidden gem, so we’re all very pleased to show it off.”
One recent visitor said: “Absolutely amazing experience, great tour,and if you love history, trains and architecture – you have to see it.”
And it was primarily used to transport coal from the collieries in North West Leicestershire into what was then, the growing industrial town of Leicester.
Though, the construction of the tunnel was no easy feat.
Some trial drillings revealed that there were sand and clay beneath the surface, however, it was actually running sand.
This meant even more work needed to be done to construct the tunnel, and of course, with this, it became more expensive.
The tunnel needed to be lined with thick brickwork throughout and in some of the sandy sections there needed to be a ‘wooden shell‘.
This would reinforce the tunnel, but unfortunately it meant it took longer to construct.
Then the time came in the summer of 1832 where the tunnel opened with a special train named Comet.
It features narrow carriages, that weren’t very tall and had bars over the windows.
The train line was mainly used for transporting coal, granite and oil, though there were some passenger services as well.
However, these stopped in 1928 and then a complete closure came in the 1960s.
And visitors can go on a tour of it as well as ride a miniature train for freeCredit: Facebook
This historic tunnel was then eventually sold to Leicester City Council for a mere £5 and by the early 2000s, it was clear the tunnel had several flaws.
Today, the tunnel is managed by the Leicestershire Industrial History Society (LIHS) and tours run between May and October.
Nearby, visitors can also head to Abbey Park, which is divided by the River Soar.
The park is home to the remains of the 12th century Leicester Abbey, as well as the ruins of a 17th century mansion, Cavendish House.
For those wanting to grab a quick bite, there is also a small cafe in the park.
From the centre of Leicester, Glenfield Railway Tunnel is only a 16 minute drive away.
Looking for the perfect cosy UK countryside getaway this winter? This charming Cotswolds hotel ticks all the boxes, we discovered
11:25, 22 Nov 2025Updated 11:26, 22 Nov 2025
We found the perfect cosy Cotswolds getaway(Image: Laura Mulley, Calcot & Spa)
Visit Calcot & Spa around this time of year and the first thing you’ll notice upon pulling up is the fragrant smell of log fires. Just outside the honey-coloured town of Tetbury – the Cotswolds’ second largest, and where you’ll find Highgrove House, the private home of King Charles and Queen Camilla – Calcot is the ultimate countryside retreat.
The main house was built in the 17th and 18th century, but records show that one barn dates back to 1311, with dwellings here even as far back as Roman times. Now it’s a luxury spa hotel filled with cosy corners and a keen focus on sustainability; they burn logs made from coffee grounds and old newspapers, a tree is planted every time towels are reused, and they’ve eliminated single-use plastics.
Rooms are comfy and spacious – the tray of complimentary drinks and snacks is a nice touch (including the butteriest homemade shortbread), and I had one of the best night’s sleep in ages in the giant squishy bed.
Dinner can be taken in the elegant Brasserie restaurant (be sure to save room for one of the delicious desserts) or in The Hive, a pub-like space serving more casual bites, and which is better for kids.
In fact, the whole hotel is incredibly family-friendly, while still being a relaxing retreat for those travelling without children (a tricky balance to get right). There are dedicated hours for families in the pool and at The Hive, baby monitors are available to hire, and kids get four hours of free childcare in the nanny-run Playbarn when staying between Sunday and Thursday.
The spa at Calcot
A huge barn-style building a few steps from the main building, Calcot Spa features a light and airy café, indoor pool for lengths, sauna, steam room and snooze-inducing relaxation rooms.
The highlight, however, is undoubtedly the outdoor hydropool by yet another aromatic log fire, which somehow never feels overcrowded. Try to pay it a visit at the end of the day (the spa’s open until 9pm), as it becomes even more magical in the dark.
Top treatment at Calcot & Spa
Six months pregnant at the time, I went for the spa’s New Life New Mum Massage, which started with a back massage lying on each side (I appreciated the long sausage-shaped pregnancy pillow to hug), before turning over onto my back to work on my feet, legs and arms. While the lower back needs to be treated gently when pregnant, I was thrilled to still feel the knots in my neck being expertly loosened. The combination of vanilla-y scent of macadamia nut oil and my therapist’s soothing voice had me nearly nodding off.
What else is there to do at Calcot & Spa?
Calcot is, quite rightly, very proud of its rewilding programme across its 220-acre grounds, which includes wildflower meadows, beehives and a herd of fluffy Belted Galloway cows to graze the fields. Explore it all on the 3km nature trail; comfy Le Chameau wellies are available to borrow by the back door if it’s muddy underfoot.
UNDISTURBED views of hazy mountains are all around.
My focus, however, is on the plate in front of me, piled high with cheeses including sulguni, a sour and briney variety famous in this part of the world.
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Now is an ideal time to visit the Georgian capital of Tbilisi, with temperatures are in the low twentiesCredit: GettyGeorgians take great pride in their cuisine, and visitors should try delicacy Khachapuri, pastry with cheese and eggCredit: Getty
I take a glug of red wine and notice everyone at my table, like me, has been rendered speechless by the sumptuous spread.
You may think I’m in the South of France or Italy — but no, I’m in Georgian capital Tbilisi, and the place is stunning.
In April this year easyJet launched a direct route to this former Soviet republic from Luton — and with the city’s magnificent wine scene and travel prices that won’t break the bank, it’s not hard to see why it is soaring in popularity.
Now is an ideal time to visit, when temperatures are in the low twenties — perfect for exploring and, more importantly, eating until you’re fit to burst.
Georgians take great pride in their culinary excellence and there are several dishes which simply have to be tried while you’re here.
Khachapuri, a national delicacy, is top of my list and can be picked up from most cafes and restaurants in the city.
Made of gooey cheese melted into a thick, hollowed-out, loaf-like bread, and often served with runny-yolked egg, this traditional staple is as heavy as it is tasty.
Luckily, virtually every meal in Tbilisi comes with a Georgian salad, consisting of tomatoes and cucumbers, so don’t worry about getting towards your five-a-day.
It’s amazing how much flavour the city’s chefs can add to the simplest of ingredients — and beans are no exception.
I tried them in a dish loved by locals, lobiani. Mashed kidney beans are cooked in onions and spices and stuffed into a flatbread.
Sofiko restaurant does an excellent version and what’s better is that its dishes are served alongside mesmerising city views.
When you are able to eat no more, Tbilisi’s cobbled streets are ideal for walking off all the food.
The city’s architecture reflects a fascinating blend of Persian, Arabic and Soviet styles, due to its occupations by all of these empires over the years.
Just make sure you pack comfy shoes. I’d booked a tour with a local guide, Nik, who told me: “Georgia would be the biggest country in the world . . . if it was flat”.
Gergeti Trinity Church sits on one of the country’s many spectacular green hillsCredit: GettyThe imperious Mother of Georgia statue was built in 1958 to mark the city’s 1,500th anniversaryCredit:
Bearing this in mind, I opted for the cable car up to the Narikala Fortress —an ancient stronghold built by King Vakhtang I Gorgasali in the fourth century, which looks over Tbilisi.
Up there you can see the imperious Mother of Georgia statue, a 20-metre figure built in 1958 to mark the city’s 1,500th anniversary.
In one hand she carries a sword — and in the other wine, to reflect the area’s fine vineyards.
Some of the world’s most celebrated grapes are grown in Georgia’s Kakheti region and no restaurant or bar is short of a good local white or red.
Kiketi Farm, a natural wine cellar around 45 minutes from Tbilisi, is the place to head if you want to sample some of the best tipples.
For such quality, I expect a steep bill for my tasting session. But the 30 lari I am charged works out at a very affordable £8.50.
Don’t guzzle too much, though, as you’ll also want to take advantage of everything else on offer at the farm — which includes horse riding. Staff are so friendly that they even attempted to give me a culinary masterclass.
It’s safe to say that despite their efforts to teach me how to make khinkali — a type of dumpling crammed with meat or veg — I reckon this job is best left to the local chefs.
If you’re after even more rural delights, an hour or so from Tbilisi is the Kass Land attraction park and its spectacular Diamond Bridge.
Bestriding the Dashbashi canyon 300 metres below, this transparent glass walkway is no more than two metres wide but 240 metres long — and features a colossal diamond- shaped structure at its centre, housing an all-glass sky bar with panoramic views.
Some find the experience rather daunting but I found it truly spectacular — especially when you can sip wine while drinking in the knockout views.
GO: Tbilisi
GETTING THERE: EasyJet flies from Luton to Tbilisi twice weekly from £137 return. See easyjet.com.
STAYING THERE: Rooms at the Sheraton Grand Tbilisi Metekhi Palace cost from £150 per night including breakfast.
A holiday expert revealed if your flight is delayed by a certain length of time, you could claim more than just monetary compensation – but you need to know your rights
You could get compensation if your flight is delayed (stock photo)(Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
Finding out your flight is delayed is never welcome news, but knowing exactly what you can claim from the airline can help ease the frustration of waiting at the airport. With many of us planning winter getaways to sunny locations to escape the dreary UK weather, or perhaps even thinking of spending Christmas abroad, airports are set to be incredibly busy over the coming weeks.
While we’d all love for every flight to leave and land perfectly on time, that is simply not practical, and some delays are inevitable. But what are your rights when your flight is delayed? One holiday expert has shared some vital tips that could help you next time you’re stuck waiting for your plane.
The expert, named Chelsea, shared a video on TikTok in which she stated her flight had been delayed and she was stuck in the airport. She said that before you start worrying about whose fault the delay is, there are other things to consider.
She said there are “a load of things” you could have a right to, no matter whose fault the delay is, but they all depend on how long your flight has been delayed.
For short-haul flights delayed by over two hours, you are entitled to food and drink, access to phone calls and emails, and accommodation for the night if needed, as well as transport to and from that accommodation.
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Chelsea only needed food and drink this time, but when she went to get a voucher from airport staff, she found nobody working behind the desks. Instead, she bought her food and kept the receipt, saying she would be able to claim it back online once she finally got on her flight and headed to her destination.
Once her flight was boarding and her passport had been checked, she asked for confirmation on the reason for the delay. She was told it was due to an aircraft change, which means the delay was the airline’s fault – and that means Chelsea could be entitled to compensation.
However, to receive £220 compensation for her delayed flight from Tallinn, Estonia, back to London, her plane had to be three hours late. There are also very specific restrictions on that time.
She said: “It’s not about the time we land, it’s about what time the first door opens.”
Chelsea’s plane landed on the runway 2 hours and 56 minutes after it was scheduled to, meaning she had four minutes until her compensation could be paid. It finally came to a stop, and passengers began to stand up with just one minute left on the clock, and thankfully, the doors opened just a few seconds after the three-hour mark – meaning she was able to put in a claim to get her money back.
In her caption, Chelsea claimed these rules are only relevant to flights that are departing from an airport in the UK on any airline, arriving at an airport in the UK on an EU or UK airline, or arriving at an airport in the EU on a UK airline.
You should always check the specific rules for the airline you’re flying with before you travel, as you don’t want to be caught off guard if it turns out your airline operates under different rules.
Chelsea added: “For both expenses and compensation, airlines will have a dedicated page on their website with the details on how you can claim your money back.”
Commenters on the expert’s post were thankful for her advice, though many shared their own stories from times their flights were delayed and they were unfortunately denied compensation.
One person said: “This is gold! Love this for you.”
Another added: “This happened to us in December 2023! They opened the doors seconds after, and all three of us got the compensation. We also got food vouchers at the airport.”
A third wrote: “This happened to us. My friend recorded the time the doors were opened on her phone. The airline refused. My friend found the airline CEO on LinkedIn… he authorised our compensation.”
OUR Spotlight On column rounds up the best things to see and do in top holiday destinations – and shines a light on some lesser-known spots too.
This week we’re spotlighting Belfast – the Northern Irish capital bursting with charm, heritage and plenty of good craic!
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The Grand Central hotel has the best views over the city, including the grand City HallCredit: The Grand Central Hotel BelfastThe Cathedral Quarter is home to the colourful Commercial Court, or “Umbrella Street”Credit: Jenna Stevens
Travel Writer Jenna Stevens recently spent a weekend in the city centre, and is wondering why she didn’t visit sooner.
She said: “Belfast wasn’t on my bucket list, but after going I can’t believe I overlooked it. I’m convinced it’ll be the next go-to city for weekend breaks.
“Flights only cost £15 with Ryanair, and they’re so quick you barely have time to have a drink and stretch your legs before you’re landing again.
“The city’s got some amazing architecture, like the grand city hall and cathedral that watches over the city with its signature spire poking out.
“The food scene in Belfast is criminally underrated too – local pubs served up some of the best seafood I’ve ever had.
“The Afternoon Tea at the Grand Central Hotel was miles better than The Shard.
“It had loads of unique tea flavours such as lemon smoothie, and plenty of well-stuffed sandwiches to go round.
“Plus, the Causeway Coast is breath-taking and under an hour’s drive from Belfast.
“It’s worth extending your trip, hiring a car and driving up the entire coast to see dramatic cliffs and Game of Thronesfilming locations – not just a day trip to the Giant’s Causeway.
Must see and do
Head to McConnell’s Whiskey Distillery for a tour that blends history, culture and some fantastic local flavours.
The Cathedral is huge and even has its own spireCredit: Jenna StevensMcConnell’s has a new home in the former A-Wing of Crumlin Road GaolCredit: Jenna StevensThe McConnell’s distillery teaches you all about the making of Irish whiskeyCredit: Jenna Stevens
Housed in the former Crumlin Road Gaol, the £25 experience begins with a welcome drink and a guided tasting of three spirits.
You’ll get to walk over the eerie markings of old prison cells, whilst seeing how whiskey is crafted from grain to glass.
The most memorable part of my visit, however, was the black cab tour.
Our cab driver, Billy, gave us a comprehensive overview of the city’s history, and drove us through a series of murals and past the Peace Walls.
It’s an excellent way to learn more about the city through the eyes of a local.
The Black Cab Tour was a great way to both see the city and learn about its historyCredit: Jenna Stevens
Else, take a stroll through the Cathedral Quarter, where cobbled streets buzz with street art and live music.
Hidden gem
Belfast lies partly in County Antrim, home to the stunning Causeway Coast.
In an hour’s drive you can discover the breath-taking coastline: from the dramatic rope bridge at Carrick-a-Rede to the sweeping sands of White Park Bay.
Head to Glenariff Forest Park for panoramic landscapes and an enchanting waterfall walk.
The views of Glenariff Forest Park were worth the drive – and the wind!Credit: Jenna StevensThe waterfall walk is a great way to see the park in all its gloryCredit: Jenna Stevens
You can even book a tour with a forest guide, who will tell you all about the area and its wildlife.
And if hiking’s not your thing, you can simply sit in the park’s cafe with a cup of tea to soak up the emerald green landscape.
Best view
For a striking view that makes you think, visit Titanic Belfast.
From here, you can look out over the historic slipways and docks where the liner was built and launched – a backdrop that transports you back in time.
Titanic Belfast is an impressive and moving attractionCredit: Jenna StevensThe views over the slipways bring a sense of scale to the Titanic as you learn all about its launchCredit: Titanic Belfast
After taking in the sheer scale of the ship from the slipway markings, the attraction itself becomes even more meaningful.
Here you can even step aboard the SS Nomadic – the White Star Line ship that ferried passengers to the Titanic itself.
The walk through takes a couple of hours, and is fascinating, immersive and deeply moving.
Rated restaurant
Mourne Seafood Bar is renowned for its ultra-fresh, locally sourced fish.
From seafood casserole to creamy mussels with crusty bread, the menu champions seasonal flavours.
The seafood at Mourne is fresh and full of flavourCredit: Jenna StevensThe Afternoon Tea at The Grand Central is delicious and beats what I’ve had in EnglandCredit: Jenna StevensThe Observatory offers panoramic views over Belfast cityCredit: Jenna Stevens
Casual, welcoming and full of maritime charm, it’s the go-to spot for seafood lovers in Belfast.
If seafood’s not your thing, I recommend heading to Amelia Hall for delicious and generous portions of creamy pasta and freshly made pizza.
Best bar
Ask anyone in Belfast and they’ll say it’s hard to find a bad pint – and they’re right.
But the name that continually crops up the most amongst locals is Kelly’s Cellars.
After lots of Guinness, it was time for a refreshing ciderCredit: Jenna StevensKelly’s Cellars is a truly traditional pubCredit: Jenna Stevens
One of the oldest pubs in Belfast, the low-beamed interior is warm and welcoming, alive with chatter and perfectly-poured pints.
Once hosting icons from Churchill to the Beatles, today it continues to impress the modern guest with sleek rooms and city views.
The Grand Central Hotel oozes luxury – yet its an affordable stay when booked in advanceCredit: The Grand Central Hotel BelfastThe interior of the Grand Central is sleek, stylish and modernCredit: The Grand Central Hotel BelfastThe views from the rooms are second-to-noneCredit: The Grand Central Hotel Belfast
Head to The Observatory, Ireland’s tallest bar, for cocktails or afternoon tea with the skyline shimmering below.
The first thing I notice when I walk into the oasis is the temperature drop. Then, I hear the birdsong and the rustling of the palm trees. The harsh sun dims and there’s water and the smell of damp earth. It’s easy to understand why desert travellers yearned to reach these havens and why they have become synonymous with peace. I’m an explorer who’s walked through many oases with loaded camels, crossing Morocco and the Sahara on foot, but Skoura, a four-hour drive from Marrakech, is a place I visit to decompress.
Illustration: Graphics
You may be imagining some kind of cartoon mirage oasis – a sole date palm shimmering above the endless sands. In fact, Skoura has a population of around 3,000 people living in a small town on the edge of the palms with 10 sq miles (25 sq km) of agricultural land. Many visitors to Morocco start in Fez or Marrakech and stop off in Aït Benhaddou, then go down to the Sahara towns of Zagora or Merzouga. Skoura, less than an hour from Ouarzazate, is an ideal stop-off point for a couple of days, or you could combine it with a Marrakech city break. The bus from Marrakech (CTM or Supratours) takes six hours, or you can hire a car (or car with driver) from Marrakech or Fez.
Founded in the 12th century by Sultan Yaqub al-Mansur and developed as an important stop for the trans-Sahara trade, Skoura is in the Dadès valley, nicknamed the Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs, along the old trade routes from the Sahara to Europe and the Middle East. Caravans carrying everything from gold to ostrich feathers used to come up from southern Africa. Over the next three centuries it thrived, until the trade started to break up and it lost its importance. Now, it is mainly an agricultural hub – and one of Morocco’s biggest date producers.
A palm grove near Skoura. Photograph: Andrew Wilson/Alamy
A visit is not a high-octane, sight-filled adventure. It’s a chance to connect with a world that is so unchanged it is almost otherworldly. The houses are built from clay, people eat what they grow and water runs down from the mountains. It is a study in how humans can live with nature and in tranquillity.
There’s still a magnificent collection of kasbahs scattered through the trees, but the town is worth a visit for a glimpse of everyday life in rural Morocco. I love the chicken and chips sold in the roadside cafes of the main street. The skin has a perfect crispiness, and it is served with fresh bread, spicy harissa sauce and salted tomatoes. However, I come to Skoura for the peace and to immerse myself in the unique surroundings.
A bicycle, I find, offers the best way of doing this. Many of the lodges have them or rent them, or you can go on a tour with a guide from Skoura VTT Aventures. There is nothing like whizzing down the dirt paths that wind through the date palms. Being on a bike means you can really look around and investigate. It was how I found out there are male and female palm trees. A farmer saw me taking pictures and came over to explain: males are needed for pollination but don’t bear any fruit, so there is only one planted for every 20-50 females. In spring, they have big, heavy clusters of pollen-filled flowers. He also showed me how he climbs the palms in his bare feet for harvesting, using a sharp curved scythe and a rope to ratchet himself up the trunk. I decided to have a go, egged on by my new friend, and abjectly failed. October/November is harvest time (Skoura specialises in the fat, soft medjool dates), which brings a bustle of activity and excitement, so it is a particularly good time to visit.
Palms need water, and the oasis is fed by an intricate series of irrigation canals called khettara. I am not an engineering nerd, but these date back more than 2,500 years, so you can’t help but be impressed. They bring water all the way down from the Atlas mountains, which you can see in the distance, just using gravity. They look like a series of round tunnels.
Like the canals, the houses are made of the natural materials to hand and are among the best remaining examples of rammed-earth architecture in north Africa. They are naturally cool in the summer and warm in the winter because of their thick walls made of mud and palms or wood. Roofs are flat and there are grass or palm fronds poking out above the gutters to direct the water away. When it rains your house “melts”, so constant repair is necessary; many people are now rebuilding with concrete as it is cheaper.
A tomb of an Islamic saint in Skoura. Photograph: Hemis/Alamy
Skoura is a great place to sample traditional local, affordable food. The tagine is an everyday staple. Lamb tagine with vegetables, chicken tagine with olives and preserved lemon and meatballs cooked in tomato sauce are on the menu in all the restaurants. As I live in Morocco, I’m always looking for something a bit different and L’ma Lodge is my special treat. It was created over a period of six years by French/Belgian couple Vanessa and Xavier on the site of an old football pitch. They slowly won over the community by building in a traditional way and planting hundreds of trees in their organic garden. Lunch and an afternoon at the pool is just €25, and all the fruit and vegetables are their own. I often start with a salad with pomegranate and end happily with a pudding fragranced with orange blossom water. Then I float in the pool, full belly up.
Kasbah Amridil is another must-visit, a kind of living museum. The Nassiri family, who founded it more than 300 years ago, are still there and it has all the features of the traditional kasbah construction: a courtyard for the merchants and animals, with rooms and stables round the sides and storeys above where the family and guests eat, sleep and pray, with turrets on each corner of the building once used for defence. The small museum has artefacts from an everyday rural life that is only just beginning to die out. There are some rooms here too, if you want to stay.
For a small town, Skoura has a reasonably wide range of accommodation for every budget. It is not a highly developed spot, which is its great charm, but there is still plenty of choice from about €25 for a double room in family-run Auberge Famille Ben Moro, to €89 for a double at Sawadi Ecolodge, or more for something really luxurious.
Traditional old pottery in Kasbah Amridil. Photograph: Luisa Puccini/Alamy
If you want to leave the calm, Ouarzazate, just 45 minutes away, is a bustling desert city. You can visit the film studios (huge productions from Gladiator to Game of Thrones have been made here), ride a quad bike out into the desert or have dinner at one of the many great restaurants. Another interesting option is Aït Benhaddou, an hour away. This red clay town emerges out of a dry river bed, and you can walk up steep winding stairs to get a view of the desert beyond.
But once in Skoura, I always want to stay put. A couple of days in the oasis is like decompression therapy. It is a world away from the crowded markets of Marrakech, the clubs of Casablanca or the surfing vibes of Taghazoute. In times past, Skoura was part of the lifeline of trade for Morocco, now it is a tranquil reminder of how to live in a simpler way.
One destination continues to bring in tourists from across the UK and the world, as people are charmed by its vintage feel, including its iconic high street which has barely changed in the past 100 years.
Rory Gannon Showbiz Journalist
06:00, 22 Nov 2025
This Cornish getaway is beautiful, but even more so when it’s quiet(Image: Getty)
As winter starts to bite, one British seaside town is welcoming tourists deciding to avoid the summer crowds. This coastal treasure is famed for its captivating charm and vibrant artistry heritage, all set within stunning natural beauty right on the British coast.
Perched on a peninsula, St Ives in Cornwall features several spectacular beaches, each providing gorgeous panoramic views of the sea.
The town has earned its reputation as an artist hotspot, with creatives coming from far and wide, keen to capture its beauty — all whilst remarkably preserving its character for over 100 years.
Visiting here genuinely feels like stepping back in time, yet it delivers everything expected from a modern seaside getaway.
Cornwall has maintained a special place in British people’s hearts thanks to its dramatic landscape, endless golden sands, secluded coves and rugged cliffs, and St Ives is no exception.
Located north of Penzance on the Celtic Sea coast, the town combines unspoilt natural beauty with numerous attractions.
Visitors can enjoy activities around the town and the surrounding areas, ranging from surfing to coastal walks, alongside one of the country’s most impressive high streets.
St. Ives, with its stunning beaches and quintessential Cornish townscape, is a delight for anyone seeking a springtime stroll.
The town’s iconic high street has recently been praised as one of Britain’s best, thanks to its cobbled lanes, unique boutiques, and charming whitewashed buildings.
The Telegraph, who penned the glowing review, gushed: “Fore Street in St Ives, with its slate-hung shops and independent galleries, has changed little over the last century, offering a perfect mix of local and artistic charm.”
It urged people to come as soon as they can, but gave great recommendations on when to avoid the height of the crowds.
Whilst taking in nature’s fierceness, you can witness the awe-inspiring sight of waves crashing against the rocks below in a truly enthralling moment.
There’s no shortage of things to do in St. Ives either, with a plethora of pubs and restaurants to try out, not to mention a vibrant arts scene featuring numerous studios and galleries.
Art lovers will appreciate the Tate St. Ives gallery, which hosts rotating contemporary art exhibitions, while the Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden is a must-see.
“I have never seen such a beautiful place in the UK as St. Ives. Many have said it’s like being abroad and it really is,” gushed one TripAdvisor reviewer.
Another added: “The town was beautiful and really peaceful; we will definitely be back.”
Other reviews were quick to point out the natural beauty of the area and the local transport links to other towns such as Penzance. Some people were even thrilled to see the beauty of the town amidst the dull British weather.
One commentator wrote: “In the afternoon the weather had clouded over and with the grey sky, the bay is even more beautiful. Being an English bay facing the ocean; with the sun — it was breathtaking.”
The seaside village has been named one of the most colourful places in the world – and it’s easy to see why
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Portmeirion has been giving visitors a mood boost since 1926(Image: ChrisHepburn via Getty Images)
A beautiful seaside village is so vibrant and colourful that it may give its residents and visitors a little pick-me-up.
As the nights draw in and daylight hours begin to feel particularly precious, it’s important to do what you can to keep the mood cheery. Taking vitamin D supplements or using a lamp are techniques some opt for to beat the glooming of the seasons.
According to Karen Haller, who works in the field of applied colour psychology, there is another way travellers can perk up their mood. She argues that being in bright, colourful places gives a subconscious mood boost.
“There’s something about stepping into a place full of colour that instantly lifts you. It changes how you feel, how you move through the space, and even how you connect with others. That’s why colour-filled destinations are becoming more popular. We’re drawn to them not just because they look good, but because they leave us feeling better. Happier. More open. More alive. It’s something I do myself, seeking out places where colour isn’t just seen, it’s felt. And those are the experiences that stay with you,” Karen said.
Working with Staysure, a medical travel insurance provider, Karen helped select a ranking of 26 global destinations that offer high levels of colour saturation, vibrancy and hue variation. Ranking highly is the Welsh seaside village of Portmeirion. The Gwynedd folly town turned 100 last year and has been charming locals and visitors alike ever since Sir Clough Williams-Ellis laid the first brick of the baroque masterpiece.
Portmeirion’s location on the Irish Sea in the North West of Wales means it’s not somewhere you’d immediately think would be good for banishing the winter blues. However, the village’s cobbled-together collection of 96 buildings, including cottages, a clock tower, a hotel, and a town hall, is splashed with an array of bright colours and scattered across the hillside in an undeniably cheery manner.
Sir Clough admitted he had taken inspiration for Portmeirion from the Italian town of Portofino. Walking around the town, particularly when the sun is shining, does leave you feeling like you’ve slipped through a Welsh portal and appeared in the Mediterranean. Portmeirion’s roots lie in the Aber Iâ estate, where the ruined Castell Deudraeth was recorded as early as 1188. Victorian tenants later planted exotic trees, and by the time Sir Clough acquired the land, it had become, in his words, a “neglected wilderness”.
He renamed it Portmeirion – ‘Port’ for the coastal location and ‘Meirion’ after the historic county of Merioneth. Construction took place in two stages: the first from 1926 to 1939, and the second from 1954 to 1976. Another charming feature of Portmeirion is that it’s made up of bits of old buildings. The town hall is capped with a roof once belonging to an old country house, bought at auction for £13.
For those who fancy stopping off at Portmeirion for a little winter mood boost, it’s important to know that a charitable trust runs the town and opens it to visitors between 9.30am and 5.30pm. The nearest train station to Portmeirion is Minffordd, which is about a one-mile walk from the village. The walk takes approximately 15 minutes. Minffordd Station is on the Cambrian line, served by Transport for Wales connecting Shrewsbury to Pwllheli and Aberystwyth.
Travel experts are warning Brits about an airport security rule that could see you denied boarding if you don’t follow it.
04:09, 22 Nov 2025Updated 06:05, 22 Nov 2025
Don’t let your phone go dead in the airport(Image: Getty)
Thousands of Brits are jetting off for some winter sunshine, with most travellers clued up on airport security protocols.
Your liquids are sorted in your carry-on, passport at the ready, and necessary visas obtained.
But there’s one obscure airport security regulation that could see you refused boarding – and it’s got nothing to do with what’s in your luggage.
Experts at WildPack American Summer Camps are urging holidaymakers to take note of this lesser-known requirement, which if violated could mean being barred from your flight.
If you’ve been rushing around getting ready for departure and allowed your mobile to run out of battery, you could face serious complications.
Travel specialist Jamie Fraser explained: “Many travellers are unaware that airport security now operates under stricter guidelines regarding electronic devices.
“If security personnel cannot switch on your phone to conduct necessary checks, they have the authority to deem the device, or you, a security risk.”
Airport personnel may request you power up your device to demonstrate it’s functioning properly, reports the Express.
Should your battery be flat, the gadget be faulty or fail to power on, you’ll be prohibited from taking it aboard the aircraft.
Official guidance on GOV.UK states: “Make sure your electronic devices are charged before you travel.
“If your device does not switch on when requested, you will not be allowed to take it onto the aircraft.”
Whilst most passengers won’t face this request, it remains a possibility, making preparation vital.
Jamie said: “While it might seem extreme, these regulations are in place for everyone’s safety.
“A non-functioning device raises suspicion and can lead to significant delays and potential denial of boarding. In some cases, security might even confiscate the device for further inspection.”
There are a staggering 193 countries in the world, and one travel expert has visited them all. But despite his extensive exploration, there’s a UK city he’s labelled one of the best
A travel expert has dubbed this UK city as one of the best in the world
The world is full of incredible destinations offering breathtaking landscapes and once-in-a-lifetime experiences, so it’s no wonder that we can often overlook what’s right on our doorstep. But sometimes looking a little closer to home is the best thing to do. A UK city has beaten a whopping list of the top places to visit in the eyes of a very well-travelled explorer – and it’s not London.
Henrik Jeppesen has journeyed to every single country in the world – a staggering total of 193 – and has ticked off more than 2,000 destinations on his ever-expanding list. The globetrotter, who hails from Thy in northwest Jutland, Denmark, has been exploring the world since he was just 17, amassing a treasure trove of insider knowledge and a long list of advice.
Despite being well-versed in European travel and having experienced countless countries worldwide, there’s one destination that he can’t recommend highly enough – and it’s right here in the UK. “I absolutely loved Belfast when I visited. I still remember it as being one of the best and most surprising cities I’ve been to”, Henrik exclusively told the Mirror. “The city is so charming, and it has a very rich history.”
The capital of Northern Ireland is the birthplace of the RMS Titanic and home to the Crumlin Road Gaol, a former prison that has been converted into a museum.
Meanwhile, City Hall takes centre stage in the city, which earned the nickname ‘Linenopolis’ during the 19th century when Belfast was known as the world’s linen capital. In addition to its legacy, Henrik had nothing but praise for the people who call the city home.
“I really loved it there, and the people make the place special. They are really fantastic, and I met, I don’t know how many Northern Irish people – they’re just fantastic, talkative and lovely,” he said. “Then the feeling about walking the streets, beautiful buildings – it’s really a lovely city with the atmosphere, and the food was great.”
Despite visiting Belfast 15 years ago for just three days, Henrik still holds fond memories of the city and is eager to return. “I had plans to visit last month, but I couldn’t go, so I’ll go in the future. The city of Belfast is one of the great cities of Europe, and of all the cities I’ve visited, I haven’t felt that they’ve been that special like Belfast has.”
Noting why it could be seen as an overlooked city in the UK, Henrik said: “You hear so much negativity in the media from the conflict back in the day, so it doesn’t really stand out as a place you want to visit; people think about London, Dublin or Edinburgh. Edinburgh is a fantastic city, but I think Belfast is highly underrated. It’s so simple and easy to get to, so if you want a quick weekend break, it makes so much sense to explore the city.”
For anyone looking to book a getaway to Belfast, or anywhere in Europe, Henrik shared some vital advice when it comes to how long you should spend in one destination. “If you go to other parts of Europe, you might want to do five cities in two weeks, but that might be too fast. I would say you have two weeks. It’s better to spend one week in each location, rather than two places,” the expert advised.
“It’s not to feel rushed. Is it really a holiday if you’re rushed? It shouldn’t be that you rush and hurry to see alot of stuff. I’ve had moments in my travels when I’ve had to rush, but I don’t enjoy it as much; it’s better to take your own pace and explore a lot of things.”
You can find more of Henrik’s world adventures on his website.
