TRAVEL

If Celebrity Traitors has you thinking about visiting rural Scotland, here’s a beautiful country estate that offers a perfect mix of countryside, cosy and entertainment

With Celebrity Traitors sparking interest in Scottish holiday spots, we visited a country estate that’s a blend of Center Parcs and a five-star hotel. Nestled in 27 acres of Perthshire countryside, Wyndham Duchally Country Estate has nine hotel rooms and 55 self-catering lodges, rivalling the grandeur of the Highlands.

The lodges, all two or three bedrooms with matching bathrooms, are as well-equipped, if not more so, than what you’d find at Center Parcs. The kitchens are kitted out for a proper self-catering holiday – no mini fridges here! Expect a toaster, kettle, oven, hob, dishwasher and microwave, plus a full-size fridge and freezer.

Despite the chilly weather outside, our lodge was kept cosy and warm thanks to efficient electric radiators with individual controllers (though do keep an eye on these if you’re travelling with little ones – they can get hot), reports OK!.

Complimentary WiFi is available in all the lodges and the main hotel, and we found it worked a treat. You can connect up to four devices per room or lodge.

Many of the lodges are currently being upgraded to top-of-the-range new buildings. We didn’t notice any signs of the works, but it might be worth ringing the Estate to check on timelines.

There are often deals to be had if you book direct, such as 25% off lodge stays between 1 December 2025 and 21 March 2026.

Restaurant and bar

There are two on-site options for food and drinks – the a la carte Monteath’s Restaurant, and The Gatehouse Bar.

The latter serves a light menu from 12.30pm to 9pm, and you can also order from the restaurant between 5pm and 9pm. A tip – we can recommend trying the Estate’s very own Gatehouse Gin – and our bartender made a mean espresso martini.

The restaurant has a solid menu, with traditional Scottish fare like smoked salmon pate (£10) and haggis pakora (£10) on the starter menu (we can vouch for the haggis pakora although be warned – the portions were generous!), and fish and chips (£18.50), mac and cheese (£17) and 8oz sirloin steak (£39) on the mains.

The steak was particularly good, and despite emptying our plates, we still had room for a delicious sticky toffee pudding (£9) for dessert.

Is it child-friendly?

Yes, very. There’s lots of safe spaces for young ones to run around, plus a separate kids’ pool in the Leisure Centre.

Our lodge had a retractable stair gate downstairs, useful for keeping both four-legged and small children on one floor. The pub has a large outdoor area with lots of tables – and if you’re lucky with the weather, a selection of things to entertain large and small kids, including an inflatable slide and a giant Connect 4 game.

The Beauty by Brenda spa also offers a Little Miss Manicure for ages seven to 12 (£15), which we thought was a sweet addition to the menu.

Spa and pool

The spa area is complimentary for Estate guests, you just need to ring ahead to reserve a slot, or turn up and cross your fingers. Towels were supplied and we could store our clothes in electronic lockers using a pin number, so there was no need to fret about keeping tabs on wristbands, which is always a plus.

In addition to the heated indoor pool, there’s also a hot tub, sauna and steam room – not forgetting a gym, for those more committed than us.

The leisure centre’s Beauty by Brenda spa appears to have something of a cult following around these parts, and while we didn’t encounter Brenda herself, we can vouch that our head and shoulders massage, and our 30-minute luxury facial, lived up to the buzz. There’s one treatment room, so booking is crucial.

We were particularly fond of the range of treatment durations (and prices) available – from a half hour aromatherapy massage (£50) up to a 90-minute Top to Toe massage (£90).

Is Wyndham Duchally Country Estate dog friendly?

This is one of the benefits – it’s a dog-friendly site and a maximum of two dogs are permitted in selected lodges. Just a heads up, you need to book a pet space in advance, and they’re not allowed in the main hotel rooms, Monteath’s restaurant or hotel bar.

The location is an ideal base for walkers and their well-behaved dogs (we felt a bit sorry for the bloke in chest-high pond water trying to retrieve his overexcited duck-chasing dog!).

What is there to do around Wyndham Duchally Country Estate?

This is the perfect spot for those who love the great outdoors (though snuggling up in a lodge for the weekend is equally appealing), with an abundance of countryside, public footpaths, fishing spots and mountain bike trails to explore.

It’s just a half-hour drive from Perth, and you’ll find Drummond Castle and Scone Palace nearby.

For those with children (or animal lovers), Blair Drummond Safari Park is also about 30 minutes away by car, and Estate guests receive a 10% discount on the entrance fee.

The renowned Gleneagles hotel and golf course is just a stone’s throw away, as is Auchterarder Golf Club. So if you fancy a round of golf without splashing out on hotel prices, Wyndham Estate is a win-win.

A Murder Mystery evening

As avid fans of all the Traitors series, we were over the moon to partake in our very own murder mystery night at Wyndham Estate. Hosted by Spirit of Glasgow company, we were treated to a thrilling live-action murder mystery play – The Dalliance – complete with a three-course dinner and plenty of chances for some real detective work.

The cast members remain in character and occasionally mingle in the dining area to converse with each other and answer guest’s queries (not that it aided our team…).

Regrettably, our team performed about as well as the current batch of Celebrity Traitor devotees, failing to correctly pinpoint the killer… However, it was a fantastically enjoyable evening, with a blend of singles, couples, mates and a hen do.

Find out more about the Estate and book at Wyndham Duchally Country Estate.

VIRGIN will soon be flying to a Thai destination for the first time ever.

From October 18, 2026, Virgin Atlantic will launch flights to Phuket in Thailand three times a week.

The flight will be the only direct service between London Heathrow and Thailand‘s largest island.

The flights will operate seasonally in the winter, on Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays from London Heathrow and Thursdays, Saturdays and Mondays from Phuket.

Tickets for the flights will go on sale on November 26.

The aircraft used will be a Boeing 787-9 and onboard passengers will get complimentary food and drink, entertainment including movies and TV series and WiFi available for purchase.

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There will be 31 Upper Class seats, 35 Premium, and 192 Economy.

If you can’t wait until November 26 to book flights, then package holidays will be available to book from today, with prices starting from £999 per person.

For example, you could spend seven nights at the four-star Sugar Marina Hotel Fashion – Kata Beach in a deluxe double room on a bed and breakfast basis, with return economy flights from Heathrow for £999 per person.

If you fancied something a little more luxurious, then you could stay at the five-star The Sands Khao Lak by Katatthani in a ‘Sands’ double room on an all inclusive basis for £1,599 per person.

Virgin Atlantic Holidays offers more than 230 accommodation options in Phuket, and over 80 throughout Thailand.

In addition, through the airline’s partnership with Bangkok Airways, travellers can head to a number of other destinations such as Koh Samui.

Juha Jarvinen, chief commercial officer for Virgin Atlantic, said: “We’re thrilled to introduce our new direct service to Phuket, giving our customers a flavour of one of Southeast Asia’s most captivating destinations.

“As well as making the trip more convenient, they can enjoy exploring Thailand’s unique heritage, natural beauty and delicious cuisine.

“We can’t wait for our customers to experience our trademark hospitality on their next unforgettable journey.”

In 2024,  Bounce – a luggage storage company – announced that Phuket was the world’s most popular island holiday destination.

Phuket is known for having stunning beaches and a rich food scene.

For example, there is Patong Beach which is known for having a vibrant nightlife.

For families, Karon and Kata Beaches are then popular spots, with white sand and crystal clear waters.

Cultural attractions include the Big Buddha perched at the top of Nakkerd Hill – it is 45 metres tall and at the site, visitors can get 360-degree panoramic views of the landscape.

Phuket’s old town is also a famous spot to explore, with lots of history and pretty architecture.

For Phuket, island hopping is great day out as well, with the famous Phi Phi Islands and James Bond Island (Phang Nga Bay) nearby.

Khao Phra Thaeo National Park is then home to the island’s only remaining evergreen rainforest.

There are numerous walking trails through the rainforest, and on some, hikers can see waterfalls such as Bang Pae Waterfall.

Phuket benefits from warm temperatures year round, with the lowest temperature being around 25C and the highest 35C.

September is the wettest month to visit and February is the driest, with around two days of rainfall.

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Molly-Mae’s second season of her documentary ‘Molly-Mae: Behind It All’ has fans rushing to this Welsh coastal location, known for its sandy beach and bathing areas

Molly-Mae’s popular documentary, Molly-Mae: Behind It All, came out on 18th October and it has got fans rushing to a Welsh coastal spot. Those wanting a much-needed rest can head on to the village of Abersoch, as that is where the influencer went for episode three of her series.

The area is a hit with staycationers who are keen on travelling closer to home. A UK holiday provider, holidaylodges.co.uk reported a 208% spike in interest for lets in Abersoch in the past week.

Abersoch is known for its sandy beach, huts and bathing areas. If you are keen to go sailing and participate in water-sports, it’s possible to do lessons in the town, and the gear is available to hire. Another holiday-goer favourite top spot is the beautiful Porth Neigwl, which is popular with surfers.

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Nearby there is also Bardsey Island which offers nice boat trips, where visitors can spot the remains of a thirteenth century abbey and Victorian chapel, as well as puffins, dolphins, grey seals, and harbour porpoises.

Molly-Mae and her daughter Bambi went to Pwllheli Amusements for some arcade fun and fairground rides. She described the north Wales’ scenery as “gorgeous” and “hoped to…leave feeling relaxed, rejuvenated, and ready to go again.”

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Laura Kerslake, Regional Marketing Manager at holidaylodges.co.uk, explained: “Abersoch might once have been a quiet fishing village, but today it’s one of North Wales’ most vibrant and sought-after seaside destinations.

“It draws visitors from everywhere, including celebs like Coleen Rooney and even Bradley Cooper, thanks to its lively atmosphere, stunning beaches, and coastal charm.

She added: “While the village buzzes with energy during peak season, the wider Llyn Peninsula offers a calm and scenic escape for those seeking a slower pace. Whether you’re browsing independent boutiques, taking in the sea views, or heading further down the coast for a quiet walk, it’s a brilliant UK getaway that is ideal for both adventure and escape.”

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A STUNNING UK railway route has officially welcomed back passengers for their journeys – following a £1.4m revamp.

Although this route spans only 26 miles, the overall stretch takes approximately an hour to complete.

The Conwy Valley Line runs across Llandudno and Blaenau Ffestiniog, showcasing breathtaking Welsh scenery including waterfalls and rolling hillsides.

On Monday, October 27, the popular railway line welcomed back its passengers.

Network Rail carried out four weeks worth of intensive engineering work.

This forms part of a £1.4million scheme, intended to strengthen the railway’s resilience during harsh weather conditions.

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Furthermore, crews have cleared 600,000m2 of vegetation and removed dangerous trees along a track spanning 54 miles.

It is hoped that this will stop fallen trees obstructing the line in the event of a future storm.

In addition to this, Network Rail also tested out an innovative new rail treatment for the Conwy Valley Line.

A gel solution was applied to the rails, which is hoped to break down leaf contamination.

Overall, this gel remains effective for up to seven days before then reactivating with rain.

Network Rail said in a statement: “The Conwy Valley line is one of the most picturesque in Wales, but also one of the most weather-exposed.

“In the past decade, storms have forced the line to close for more than 500 days – disrupting passengers and the transportation of freight goods.”

Describing the rail line, an enthusiastic passenger wrote on TripAdvisor: “It’s utterly spectacular and crams more into an hour than the ECML does into four.

“One of the nicest little tours you can do in the UK is a loop of Chester-Llandudno Jn-Blaenau-Porthmadog-Machynlleth-Shrewsbury-Chester, though you’ll probably need to use a bus rather than the FfR for the middle bit at present.”

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Earlier this month, Brits planning to head home for Christmas were warned to brace for weeks of rail chaos.

Commuters and holidaymakers will face more than a fortnight of disruption from Christmas Day through to the New Year.

This will see major stations all caught in the crossfire of an engineering shutdown.

Network Rail says the work will boost the power supply to trains and strengthen the railway’s foundations, but passengers can expect plenty of pain before the gain.

Meanwhile, it was recently revealed that a new £2.7million train station is coming to the UK – in a huge boost for a tiny mining town.

A revised plan to modernise train travel in the north of Newcastle-under-Lyme was completed and awaiting council approval.

Developed by East Midlands Railway and National Rail – the £2.7m project is backed by Kidsgrove Town Deal Board.

From the 18th century, Kidsgrove grew around coal mining, although the pits have now closed.

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The original proposals for the new railway were scrapped due to historical mining issues which would have cost up to £13 million to sort out.

A revised project to upgrade its railway station is only awaiting formal approval from Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council reported RailBusinessDaily.

The MSC Poesia will dock at four cities known for their Christmas markets – Hamburg, Rotterdam, Bruges and Le Havre – and the price includes all meals onboard

A seven-day cruise, taking in some of Europe’s most renowned Christmas market cities, is currently available for a mere £384.

Iglu Cruises has just cut the price of this week-long journey from Southampton aboard the MSC Poesia, setting sail on 28 November.

This no-fly cruise deal includes a wide array of amenities, including all meals onboard and a midnight buffet for those needing a late-night snack after a busy day hunting for festive bargains at the market stalls.

The ship, capable of accommodating around 3,000 passengers, boasts five restaurants, 16 bars and lounges, sports facilities such as tennis, basketball, and mini-golf, two swimming pools, a gym, sauna, whirlpools, and the award-winning MSC Aurea Spa.

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And if that wasn’t enough, MSC Poesia also features a library, casino, and games room onboard, as well as evening entertainment in the form of Broadway-style shows. While all these may tempt you to spend the entire week onboard, the cruise is ideal for those keen to explore new places, reports the Express.

Fortunately, the ship will dock at four cities famed for their Christmas markets.

Got a travel story to share? Email webtravel@reachplc. com

Hamburg

Hamburg is renowned for its food markets, particularly the fish markets that have gained global recognition. However, Germany’s second-largest city also excels in hosting Christmas Markets.

The most famous and largest market in Hamburg is the main Weihnachtsmarkt, situated in front of the Town Hall, with a grand Christmas tree marking its location. Other unique markets are scattered throughout the city, including the ‘Santa Pauli’ festival on the Reeperbahn, which boasts being the world’s first erotic Christmas market.

Rotterdam

The Winter Fair takes place at the Ahoy Convention Centre, where you can purchase a variety of goods and culinary delights, including the Rotterdam staple ‘kapsalon’ – a dish consisting of thin chips topped with gyro meat and smothered in cheese.

Bruges

Undeniably one of Europe’s most picturesque cities, Bruges truly sparkles when its medieval architecture is illuminated against the dark winter night sky. The market is a riot of colour and sound, with stalls offering a carefully chosen selection of holiday goods, from handmade ornaments and decorations to gourmet chocolates and festive attire.

Traditional Belgian fare such as waffles and chips, along with plenty of beers, are sure to be highlights.

Le Havre

A lesser-known but delightful festive destination is Intra Muros, located at the foot of the Castle on Esplanade St Vincent. It boasts a variety of chalets offering food and drink, including scrumptious cheeses, crêpes, and mulled wine, as well as arts and crafts and an array of gifts. The town also features an ice rink and horse-drawn carriage rides.

Iglu currently has two other Christmas market-themed cruises available:

‘Christmas Markets from Tilbury’ is offered by Iglu Cruise for £572 per person (previously £619), for a 6-night, full-board trip departing on 14th December 2025. The cruise visits Hamburg, Amsterdam, and Zeebrugge (for Bruges) and is based on two people sharing an outside cabin on board Ambassador’s Ambience. Solo cabins are available for only £552 (previously £679).

‘Christmas Markets Hamburg, Rotterdam & Bruges from Southampton’ is offered by Iglu Cruise for £621 per person (previously £649), for a 7-night, full-board trip departing on 14th December 2025. The cruise visits Zeebrugge (for Bruges), Rotterdam, and Hamburg and is based on two people sharing an inside cabin on board Cunard’s Queen Anne.

Roshni Ward, 30, and Louis Hunt, 33, were fed up with the UK and high living costs

A British couple, fed up with the UK’s “poor work-life balance” and cost of living, have found their own paradise where their water bill is a few pounds and a meal out costs a fraction of what it does at home. They say that, in Thailand, they save a whopping £1,000 a month on rent and pay just £2.76 for water bills.

Roshni Ward, 30, and her fiancé Louis Hunt, 33, were exhausted from working 11-hour days and overtime in their flat in Rye, East Sussex, and yearned for a “slower pace of life”. The pair decided to pack their bags and move to Chiang Mai, Thailand, last September.

They were instantly smitten with the laid-back lifestyle, friendly locals, balmy 30C weather, and breathtaking architecture. Their monthly rent is now a mere £300, which includes access to a gym and pool, while water bills are only £2.76, taxis cost £1.50, and takeaways are just £2. This has resulted in savings of over £1,000 compared to their previous UK rent of £1,350.

Roshni, who now works as a content creator, said: “We always wanted to move abroad and had toyed with the idea of it. The UK didn’t feel safe and a poor work-life balance meant we were too burnt out to enjoy life.

“Since moving, we love the slower pace of life, as well as the weather, the rich culture and the welcoming locals. And the cost of everything is so much lower, which was a shock to the system – in a good way! If we can help it, we won’t come back to the UK.”

Roshni and Louis began earnestly considering an overseas relocation following their return from a Thai getaway in December 2024. Roshni was employed full-time as a corporate team leader in broadband sales and revealed she’d frequently find herself putting in extra hours at weekends, preventing her from unwinding and savouring her leisure time.

Louis was employed full-time as a carpenter, enduring 11-hour shifts including his commute, and would become physically drained as well.

Roshni said: “There was a poor work-life balance. When we got to the weekend, we were so burnt out that we didn’t want to do anything.”

They also felt insecure in the UK, especially Roshni as a woman, owing to crime rates, and recalled from their December break that they felt considerably safer in Thailand. So the moment their lease on their rented property in Rye expired, they started searching for rental properties in Thailand and relocated to Chiang Mai on September 3.

Roshni and Louis both quit their UK positions – with Roshni becoming a full-time content creator and Louis becoming an online fitness coach. She said the residents were all incredibly friendly and everyone was prepared to assist you if you were struggling.

There is a substantial community of international expats, providing plenty of chances to encounter fresh faces and mingle. The pair love exploring stunning temples, elephant sanctuaries, Thai eateries and waterfalls.

Roshni said: “There’s something for everyone in Chiang Mai.”

The couple have discovered that swapping the UK for Thailand has slashed their living costs dramatically. Despite both working remotely for international clients and earning UK wages, they’ve found life in Thailand to be a fraction of the cost.

Their stylish condo, just a ten-minute drive from the city centre and boasting a gym, swimming pool and co-working area, sets them back a mere £300 per month. This is a stark contrast to their previous flat in the UK which cost them a hefty £1,350 each month.

Utility bills are also significantly cheaper, with water costing a mere £2.76 compared to the UK’s steep £76. Even getting around is a bargain – a 20-minute taxi ride in Thailand will only set you back £1.50.

Electricity bills are another area where they’re making huge savings, paying just £44 compared to the UK’s whopping £300. And because taxis are so affordable, they’ve ditched owning a car or bike, saving even more on fuel and maintenance costs.

Eating out is also a steal, with takeaways costing between £1.50 and £2, and a full meal and drinks at a restaurant coming in at just £8 – a far cry from the UK, where it would be around £60. Roshni added that pints of beer are “no more than £2”.

The only item they’ve found to be pricier in Thailand is Bisto gravy granules, setting them back around £5 due to import costs. But despite the financial benefits, what they love most about their new home is the slower pace of life and the rich culture.

Roshni said: “In the mornings we can get lie-ins, go to the gym, have a swim and then start work. In the UK, everyone starts early and is asleep by 11pm, here, you could finish work at 10pm and everything is still open. Louis has some UK clients – he can have a business call at 11pm and we can still go out for a meal after.”

They are smitten with the culture – the opportunity to visit stunning temples, elephant sanctuaries and tours – as well as the tranquil and friendly locals.

She said: “Anyone will stop and help you if you need it. In the UK, if someone foreign came up to you asking for help, most people wouldn’t stop.”

Despite their short stay in Thailand, they are so enamoured that they can’t envision returning to the UK.

Roshni revealed: “We would like to stay permanently. We’d be more open to starting a family here than in the UK because it’s so much safer. We’ve just fallen in love.”

Costs: UK vs Thailand

Monthly rent: £1,350 vs £300

Monthly water bills: £76 vs £2.76

Monthly electric: £300 vs £44

Monthly transport: £95 for car costs vs £30 for taxi

Meal out: £60 vs £8

Pint of lager: £5.50 vs £2

ONE low-cost airline that flies from the UK will be testing out a new seating option – to block the middle seat.

Passengers willing to pay a little more for the perk will no longer have to squeeze next to someone on the aircraft.

Wizz Air is launching middle seat free options from December 2025 as part of a test.

Essentially the airline is targeting ‘low-cost’ business travellers who want extra space to work on a flight but don’t want to pay such a high premium.

The new system will allow travellers to ‘block’ the middle seat next to them from being booked.

The new initiative is called ‘Wizz Class’ and was unveiled by the airline at a media event on October 28.

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Unlike other airlines which have cabins dedicated to business class, there won’t be any reconfiguration for Wizz Class.

In fact, Wizz Class is likely only to be possible in the first front row of seats that has extra legroom.

The announcement also suggested that no other perks, like lounge access or meals, would be included.

Michael Delehant, Senior Chief Commercial and Operations Officer explained that the move comes off the back of requests from front-row passengers.

And the new idea has landed well with some customers, one person said: “Love it. Blocked middle seat is something that makes flying economy bearable. But this should extend to more than just the first row.”

Another added: “Blocking seats in the first row is nice. It compensates for the lack of storage space in front of the seating. It also gives you the opportunity to be first off on landing. I would pay extra for that.”

Wizz Class won’t be available on all flights, but will be rolled out on certain journeys from its hubs in Bucharest, Budapest, London, Rome, and Warsaw.

Another product Wizz Air is testing is lightweight onboard connectivity solutions called ‘Wizz Play’.

This is to appease the business traveller, but also other passengers as it hopes to provide a service so customers can use online messaging and streaming.

The airline is also launching a third wave of its ‘All You Can Fly‘ membership.

It’s making space for another 10,000 memberships across 34 countries.

The cost for signing up is €499 (£439.31) but the membership includes unlimited flights for 12 months across 950 routes and 53 countries.

Although there is a €9.99 (£8.80) booking fee each time.

It’s a popular scheme with frequent passengers saving hundreds on flights.

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Here’s more on Wizz Air’s newly relaunched ‘All You Can Fly’ membership.

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The village of Inverie in Scotland is thought to be the UK’s most remote village and it’s home to the most remote pub too a place that visitors never seem to tire of visiting

During the Covid lockdown, residents of Inverie faced greater challenges than most communities across Britain.

The small village of roughly 120 people depends entirely on its ferry service for everything from food and post to medicine and freight. When Western Isles Cruises cannot run the ferry to Inverie – which happens frequently due to poor weather conditions – nothing can enter or leave the settlement.

That’s because Inverie in Scotland has no road access whatsoever, only a gruelling two- to three-day trek over the mountains. The ferry service is therefore the villagers’ sole lifeline to essential supplies.

During the coronavirus pandemic, the usual 28 weekly sailings were slashed to just three – operating only on Tuesday, Thursday and Friday.

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“The pier has drop-off bins and a container plus many local residents would be keenly waiting the arrival of their supplies. In normal times they would create a human chain to help unload the boat up the steps and onto the pier but during Covid they couldn’t,” a blog on the ferry service’s website reads, reports the Express.

“So the skipper and crew unloaded the boat whilst the locals looked on at a distance. We didn’t need Joe Wicks as the workout was intense, especially at low tide! The crew were never so slim.”

The main village on the Knoydart Peninsula, Inverie sits on the northern shore of Loch Nevis. Whilst numerous villages in that region are isolated, Inverie is world-record-breakingly so.

It holds its own Guinness World Record for the Most Remote Village in the UK to prove it. It earned this distinction because there are no roads leading to it – you can only reach it by boat from Mallaig, or by tackling an arduous 16-mile trek through extremely isolated countryside.

Whilst getting there presents a challenge, the journey proves worthwhile for two compelling reasons: the stunning scenery and the local boozer.

The John Muir Trust, who own the land, are currently rewilding sections of Knoydart to restore its natural state.

“Centuries of burning and over-grazing by sheep and deer have damaged the habitat here. Over the last 30 years, we’ve planted native tree species and controlled deer numbers to improve biodiversity. Now we’re seeing the natural regeneration of birch, oak, hazel, rowan, Scots pine and other tree species,” the Trust’s website reads.

“As the trees have regenerated on Knoydart, native wildlife has returned. This includes pine marten, roe deer, bats and many types of woodland birds. There are also otters, foxes, water voles, buzzards and different types of eagle. Knoydart is also notable for a wide range of species in its wet heaths, grasslands and snow beds. We expect to see more biodiversity as the woodland continues to expand.”

Inverie village comprises little more than the renowned Old Forge – which bills itself as “the Remotest Pub in Mainland Britain”. “We are proud to be one of a few community-owned pubs in Scotland. Whisky, real ale, traditional music and amazing service are our passions,” the Forge claims online.

There are very few with a bad word to say about the pub, which stands as a welcoming beacon of warmth, open almost every day of the year, regardless of the weather.

“Heaven on earth. Had an amazing meal for my hubby’s 67th birthday recently. Such a friendly atmosphere and the food was excellent too – fish and chips for me, macaroni cheese for hubby. Freshly cooked and delicious! This visit was sublime in every way, the scenery wasn’t bad either,” one satisfied customer wrote on Tripadvisor.

Another added: “No visit to Inverie is complete without a visit to The Old Forge. What the community have done to the place since the buyout is outstanding, it is a credit to all who have worked so hard to revive this fantastic place to its former glory. Always a pleasure to visit and partake in wonderful food and drink, all served by a very enthusiastic group of folk. Hope to be back one day. Keep up the good work.”

The Knoydart Snug is operated by the pub and has a handful of beds available to those who get stranded in Inverie. With a lively pub and stunning scenery on your doorstep, you may find yourself hoping that the weather turns.

The simplest route to Inverie involves a scenic train ride to Mallaig, followed by a short ferry trip. The direct Glasgow to Mallaig train journey on the West Highland Line, run by ScotRail, is a treat in itself with stunning Scottish views.

The journey spans roughly 160 km and takes about 5 hours and 15 minutes, with multiple services operating each day.

WE all like to travel cheap – but two mums have managed to visit Albania in a day, and it cost them less than heading to the theatre.

Stacey Baugh, 34, and Claire Dukes, 41, headed off to Tirana in Albania, securing return flights with Ryanair for £70.08 each.

Having left their home in Chesterfield at 1am, the pair caught a 5:55am flight from Stansted and landed in Tirana at 9:50am.

After arriving, the pair managed to go on a private tour for £60 each, which explored Lake Bovilla, Gamti mountain, Mount Dajti and an evening city tour.

Stacey said: “It’s an amazing drive – the lake is a gorgeous teal colour.

“You drive most of the way and then hike the rest of the way.”

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They even managed to squeeze in a zip line over the mountains for €30 (£26.41) each.

Stacey said: “It was short but breath-taking – soaring over the mountains as the sun set was the perfect finale to the day time part of our trip.”

They then had meatballs, trileçe – a milk cake, Caesar salad and casserole at the top of Mount Dajti for less than €40 (£35.21).

In total, the mums said that the trip cost them around £200 each – which is less than a theatre trip to London.

The duo landed back in the UK at 1am feeling that the trip was great value for money.

Stacey, a secondary school teacher, said: “I get a return train for work to Leeds and it costs £103.

“If you go to the theatre in London it would cost £70 in petrol, parking and travel and the theatre ticket would cost £60 to £70.

“When you compare the price – I had 28 hours out of my home and went up three mountains.

“The value of what you’re getting is amazing.”

The two mums regularly go on day trips so their parenting isn’t interrupted and it all started when they found a Facebook page for extreme day trips.

Stacey said: “Since becoming parents we have had to shift the way we travel so we’re not away from the kids for long.”

The mums have been to multiple destinations, such as Sweden and Ireland.

Stacey said: “We try and go just to new places.”

The mums already have three trips booked for 2026, including Copenhagen in January, Poland in February and Luxemburg in March.

Stacey said: “You give up so much for your kids.

“I needed to do something for me again.

“It is a long day but you still deserve to do what it is that makes you happy.

“It’s a lot less daunting when it is one day.”

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For more extreme day trips – one man has been on 30 extreme day trips to Europe – and here is his favourite.

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The Painswick Rococo Garden is one of the most beautiful places in Gloucestershire – and it’s perfect for an autumn day trip or weekend escape.

Gloucestershire is harbouring a double secret.

Nestled amidst the stunning countryside, the delightful town of Painswick, often hailed as ‘The Queen of the Cotswolds ‘, is already a hidden jewel. Previously acknowledged as one of the UK’s most picturesque towns by The Telegraph – it’s easy to see why.

This tucked-away gem in Gloucestershire is perfect for an autumn day trip or weekend escape. Situated in the heart of the Cotswolds, this beautiful town is one of the best-preserved spots in the region and its allure has remained untouched over the decades.

The best part? Painswick remains a peaceful haven, unaffected by the overwhelming surge of tourists that descend on nearby villages like Bibury, The Slaughters, Bourton-on-the-Water, and Stow-on-the-Wold.

Perched atop a hill with views over the verdant Stroud Valley, the town sits beautifully and offers a harmonious mix of history, architecture, and awe-inspiring natural beauty – which isn’t surprising, really, since it’s located within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).

Its honey-coloured stone buildings, winding lanes, and charming chocolate-box cottages radiate that quintessentially English charm, while the town’s serene atmosphere provides a welcome respite for visitors from the hustle and bustle of the more popular Cotswold must-see destinations.

If you’re still not convinced to pay a visit, the charming town boasts an open secret that its residents take great pride in – the Painswick Rococo Garden.

The Painswick Rococo Garden, the only one of its kind in the UK, has been acknowledged as one of the top 10 per cent of attractions worldwide by Tripadvisor’s Travellers Choice Awards for 2025. Just a stone’s throw from the town centre, it’s safe to say this stunning garden is Painswick’s crowning glory.

Brief history of the Rococo Garden

The history of the garden is rich and layered, stretching back nearly three centuries when Benjamin Hyett designed this unique and captivating haven to entertain his guests at Painswick House in the 1740s. In 1748, he hired local artist Thomas Robins to paint the garden, and it’s this very painting that has served as the blueprint for the garden’s restoration from 1984 to the present day.

Today, this 18th-century treasure on Gloucester Road stands as the only fully preserved rococo garden in the UK, making it a truly one-of-a-kind destination for visitors. Since 1984, it has been painstakingly restored into a beautifully kept outdoor space, saved from certain ruin.

The term ‘rococo’ refers to an art period that was popular in Europe in the 1700s, characterised by ornate decoration, the use of pastel colours and asymmetry, reports Gloucestershire Live.

Why it’s so famous

The garden’s popularity is well-earned, with up to 1,000 visitors descending on the garden daily during snowdrop season, which spans from late January to early February, when the snowdrop displays are at their most spectacular.

Currently, the Rococo Garden is featured on the Historic England Register of Parks and Gardens of Special Historic Interest. It has been under the care of the Painswick Rococo Garden Trust, a registered charity that has been rejuvenating the garden since 1988.

This esteemed garden, offering stunning views of the Cotswolds, includes enchanting follies, woodland strolls, a café, and a maze. There’s also a charming wooden play area for children along with a gift shop selling locally crafted produce and souvenirs, as well as top-quality plants.

How to get there and ticket prices

If you’re contemplating a trip to the Rococo Garden, you might want to consider becoming a season ticket holder. Single membership begins at £37, granting free entry throughout the year.

Alternatively, you can buy a ticket on the day. Prices range from £5.70 for children and £12.20 for adults, to £10.95 for seniors (60 and above) and £31.50 for a family ticket.

The nearest train station is Stroud, which is approximately 5 miles away from the garden. You can also utilise the Stagecoach 66 local bus route, operating hourly from Cheltenham to Stroud, Monday through Saturday.

On Sundays, the Stagecoach 166 service runs between Cheltenham and Stroud. The closest stop is at the foot of Pullens Road, roughly half a mile from the Garden.

THE government has finally revealed the new operator that could run train services to Europe alongside Eurostar.

The Office for Rail and Road has announced that Virgin Trains will be allowed to access Temple Mills International depot in East London.

This means Virgin will eventually join Eurostar to operate train services via the Channel Tunnel from the UK to Europe – and will be the first train service to rival Eurostar since it launched more than 30 years ago.

Virgin first announced plans to launch services rivalling Eurostar in January 2025, and could start running trains from 2030.

This means direct routes to Paris, Brussels and Amsterdam, with future plans for France, Germany and Switzerland.

Virgin also announced plans to restart trains from both Ashford International and Ebbsfleet International in Kent as well – which had Eurostar trains until the pandemic.

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Earlier this month, the company even said that it if it won the bid, it could to run services from Manchester and Birmingham.

Virgin founder Sir Richard Branson said: “The ORR’s decision is the right one for consumers – it’s time to end this 30-year monopoly and bring some Virgin magic to the cross-Channel route.

“Virgin is no stranger to delivering award-winning rail services, and just as we have successfully challenged incumbents in air, cruise and rail, we’re ready to do it again.

“We’re going to shake-up the cross-Channel route for good and give consumers the choice they deserve.” 

Martin Jones, deputy director, access and international, said that Virgin’s plans were “more financially and operationally robust than those of other applicants”.

He added: “With this decision we are backing customer choice and competition in international rail, unlocking up to £700million in private sector investment and stimulating growth.

“While there is still some way to go before the first new services can run, we stand ready to work with Virgin Trains as their plans develop.”

Signing an agreement with Alstom, Virgin will buy 12 Avelia Stream trains, and have secured funding from Equitix, a leading European investor.

This is alongside private equity firm Azzurra.

While the access to the Temples Mills depot is a step forward, it will be a while until trains can launch.

This is because Virgin must also secure access to the tracks.

But it is good news for a competitor on the HS1 line, as this could even mean cheaper fares in the future.

Virgin’s Phil Whittingham said: “Temple Mills has been a critical bottle neck in the process to launching a new cross-Channel service, so today’s news is a significant milestone for Virgin and a pivotal turning point for international rail.

“Building on the great success of Virgin Trains, Virgin will deliver a first-class cross-Channel service that will create hundreds of jobs and support the modal shift of short-haul journeys from air to rail.” 

Eurostar has had monopoly of the Channel Tunnel since it first launched back in 1994.

And over the past months, a number of companies have stepped forward in bid to run services through the Channel Tunnel to Europe.

This includes Italy‘s state-owned FS Italiane Group and Gemini Trains (recently partnering with Uber), as well as start up Evolyn.

Currently, the only destinations Brits can get to via direct train from the UK are Paris, Lille, Brussels Rotterdam and Amsterdam.

Previous routes that have since been scrapped included Disneyland Paris, as well as Marseille and Lyon.

Eurostar recently revealed it’s £1.7billion plans to launch double decker trains for the first time.

This would mean 540 seats onboard – a 20 per cent increase.

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And the train operator previously revealed future plans of new destinations across Europe including Switzerland, Germany and Italy.

Cities could include Zurich, Geneva, Milan, Frankfurt and Cologne.

‘They call this place the Bermuda Triangle of Transylvania,” says tour guide Marius Lazin, his breath expelling a procession of cotton-wool ghosts into the sharp evening air. “So many people have disappeared here, some say it’s a portal to another dimension.” Marius is leading me on a night walk through what is often described as the world’s most haunted forest: Hoia-Baciu, a square mile of old-growth native woodland on the outskirts of the Romanian city of Cluj-Napoca. He’s been coming here three nights a week for the past 12 years, but even he looks a little uneasy as he arcs his torch like a searchlight against the knotted walls of elm and beech trees which embrace us on all sides, looking so thick that they might be the boundary of the known world.

Marius motions with his torch towards several pairs of slender beech trees, eerie in their symmetry, branches intertwined to form arches – portals or stargates, you might speculate, were you possessed of a particularly febrile imagination. “Many came in here and never came out. But don’t worry,” he adds, turning to me with a grin. “Our tours have a 100% return rate.”

Reports of strange happenings here date back centuries – the forest is named after a local shepherd who is said to have vanished in the distant past, along with 200 of his sheep. But Hoia-Baciu came to international attention in 1968, when a military technician named Emil Barnea photographed what he described as a UFO hovering above a circular clearing in the centre of the forest. In the decades since, Hoia-Baciu has drawn yogis, shamans, ufologists and paranormal investigators from across the world, curious to experience the strange energies said to echo through the forest.

It may be one of the world’s premier pilgrimage sites for lovers of the paranormal, but the forest is under threat. The western suburbs of Cluj-Napoca – a modern tech hub of more than 400,000 people, described as the Silicon Valley of eastern Europe – are encroaching, and developers are pushing for permission to clear the trees to build apartment blocks. Barring a few hectares home to locally rare Mediterranean oak trees, the forest is not officially protected, but Marius hopes that the company he co-founded – the Hoia-Baciu Project – will help to change that, encouraging the authorities to recognise the forest’s value as a tourist attraction. The company offers day and night walks in the forest, yoga sessions, paranormal lectures, treasure hunts and escape games – and even, for the particularly intrepid, overnight camping.

As twigs and autumn leaves snap and crunch beneath our boots, Marius recounts some of the folk tales and alleged paranormal happenings here. One famous story describes a five-year-old girl disappearing during a family picnic, only to rematerialise five years later with no memory of what had happened to her, having not aged a day, her clothes shy of the slightest speck of dirt.

More common reports describe mobile phones and camera equipment inexplicably shutting down on entering the woods, while emotional responses range from full-blown dread to states of ecstasy. Some people report seeing strange rashes on their skin, hearing disembodied whispers through the trees, or feel hands grabbing or pushing them, even when sure they are alone.

Marius pulls an iPad from his rucksack and shows me the UFO images which catapulted Hoia-Baciu to international attention in the 1960s. Grainy and monochrome, they appear to show a button-like flying saucer hovering above the trees. He flicks through dozens of other photographs taken in the years before and since, with similar saucer-like objects, glowing orbs or wraith-like apparitions. Enigmatic photographs of this nature have been a fixture of paranormal research for more than a century, not much use as evidence, but it’s worth noting that Barnea did not stand to profit from publishing his photographs – on the contrary, he lost his job in the military, with the communist government not looking kindly on anything with a supernatural tang. “Many of the old researchers who investigated the forest ended up in psychiatric wards,” Marius says. “Did the communist regime put them there? Or did something really happen to them, here in the forest?”

While many of the stories may be unverifiable, there is much before my eyes that is undeniably strange. All around are trees whose trunks are bent and twisted into fantastical shapes. Some bulge outwards at the base, their crowns disappearing into the black night, so they resemble giant meat hooks hanging from the heavens. Others droop like melted candles, or are bent in strange, spiralling patterns. Various suggestions have been given to explain the deformed trees: that hurricane winds could have bent the saplings, or naturally high radiation levels in the soil account for their crooked growth. But scientific investigations have turned up no satisfactory evidence.

Marius’s tours allow visitors to take part in a little scientific inquiry of their own. As we approach the clearing in the trees where Barnea took his famous UFO photographs, he hands me an EMF meter, a stalwart of ghost-hunting kits which measures electromagnetic fields. “We’re entering the most active part of the forest,” he says. “See what you can find.”

The trees suddenly stop dead as we emerge into a perfect circle. The only greenery is the short grass beneath our feet; it’s clear that it hasn’t been mown, and appears that this strange clearing is natural, not the work of human hands.

Wielding my EMF meter, I sweep the clearing like a detectorist, briefly excited when the needle begins to tick madly back and forth, only for my vibrating phone to indicate that the electromagnetic disturbance was just an incoming text message. Despite spending several hours in the forest, and being genuinely baffled by the twisted trees and the strange clearing, I haven’t seen anything I’d describe as supernatural. Perhaps the forest is a blank canvas, on to which people project their own fears and desires.

Transylvania generally is a place which stirs the imagination, where the border is blurred between fact and folklore. In rural Romanian communities belief persists in strigoi (“screamers”) – undead, shapeshifting bloodsuckers, who rise from their graves to terrorise local communities.

Bram Stoker’s famous vampire Count Dracula is forever associated with Transylvania, and Bran Castle – a Saxon monolith perched on a rocky outcrop in the Carpathian Mountains around four hours’ drive south of Hoia-Baciu – is keenly marketed as “Dracula’s Castle”. While it bears little resemblance to the shadowy ruin described as Dracula’s dwelling, and there is no evidence that it inspired Stoker, it’s still a major attraction for fans of all things gothic and ghoulish – particularly around Halloween, when the castle hosts costumed parties.

But even myth-shrouded Transylvania – literally, “the place beyond the forest” – feels solid and predictable compared to these eerie woods, which seem to be, for reasons radioactive, atmospheric or simply folkloric, a nexus for human imaginative power. “In Hoia-Baciu,” Marius says, “the line between reality and imagination is very thin.”

Daniel Stables is the author of Fiesta: A Journey Through Festivity (Icon Books, £20). To support the Guardian, order your copy at guardianbookshop.com. Delivery charges may apply. A three-hour evening walking tour in Hoia-Baciu forest from 300 RON/£50. A five-hour night tour costs 500 RON/£85

Pretoria Drever and Rhonan Kelly said they were “absolutely gutted” to miss their trip to Amsterdam but felt they “probably would’ve died” had they stayed on the KLM plane

A British couple claim they had no choice but to leave their aircraft and miss their holiday despite boarding — as staff “ignored” their nut allergies.

Pretoria Drever and Rhonan Kelly say KLM flight attendants continued to hand out free almond-topped cakes, even though they had told employees of their airborne allergies. Despite again raising their concerns after boarding, the couple decided they had no option but to disembark and miss their holiday to Amsterdam booked for Rhonan’s 25th birthday.

KLM says it “cannot control or prohibit other passengers” from eating products that contain — or may contain — nuts during flights. It did, though, state staff do request tourists refrain from doing so by delivering onboard announcements upon boarding.

But the situation at the gate at Edinburgh Airport on Saturday October 25 became so concerning for the couple, they felt “backed into a corner” and left the aircraft.

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Rhonan, who recently got engaged to Pretoria, said: “I’ve never felt so discriminated against in all my life. I honestly believe if we took off on that flight and they served the nuts they’d have taken an emergency landing in London or we’d have probably died on the flight.

“When we book a holiday, we always double check with the airline [about our allergies]. We asked if they’d put an announcement out to ask passengers not to open anything if they do have nuts in them and if they could not sell nuts on the plane.

“Even the menu for that day was meant to be a cookie but when we got on the plane it was a banana loaf with almonds and nuts on it. The manager on the plane was saying ‘we’re not going to stop selling [nut products]. We spoke to KLM Amsterdam and they’ve told us to go ahead with selling the nut products and they can’t put an announcement out’. They said if we don’t like it, we have to basically not fly.

“I was angry but it was very embarrassing. I felt as if I was backed into a corner because no matter what we said or did, we knew we weren’t going to win.

“The pilot said that basically they need to carry out a service for what everybody’s paid for but I paid for it as well. I feel quite disgusted that an airline would do something like that.”

Although staff allegedly told Pretoria and Rhonan EpiPens were onboard, the couple felt this was not sufficient because it is only a short-term measure and typically effective until paramedics help.

Now, having missed the two-day trip, Pretoria and Rhonan, from Bellshill, Lanarkshire, hope to get a refund from KLM, the flag carrier of the Netherlands. They say they declared their allergy to nuts and peanuts on an online form, and arrived two hours early to Edinburgh Airport so they could alert staff on Saturday.

“I was absolutely gutted [to miss out on the trip] It’s put me off using that airline again and it’s actually putting the fear in me flying. I have to build myself up to be able to go on a plane. I know the air is circulated and I know that’s the chance I take,” Rhonan added.

Pretoria, who works in car insurance, admitted she could go into anaphylactic shock within just two minutes of nut exposure because of her airborne allergy and the experience has put her off flying.

Pretoria said: “Before we got on the flight, I had such bad anxiety about flying but I thought ‘it’s only an hour and a half’. But it was the worst experience ever.

“It made me feel I was different to everyone else. It was humiliating getting off the plane and as if we were less than everyone else, as if we’ve paid less so we should be leaving.

“But we obviously paid the same as every other passenger. It made me feel rubbish and unwanted. No-one even stuck us for us or said ‘I won’t eat that so they can fly’.

“They were putting our safety at risk. There’s two of us but 190 passengers so that’s the whole air with nuts in it, it was horrible. I’ll never fly with them again and it’s put me off flying ever again.”

A KLM spokesman said: “We are sorry to hear about the experience Mr. Kelly and Ms. Drever had prior to their flight from Edinburgh to Amsterdam.

“We understand how serious nut allergies can be and how distressing this situation must have been for them. When a passenger informs our crew about a nut allergy, we can make an onboard announcement kindly requesting fellow passengers to keep nut-containing products sealed for the duration of the flight.

“However, we cannot control or prohibit other passengers from consuming products that may contain nuts during the flight. While we do our utmost to support passengers with allergies, we unfortunately cannot guarantee a nut-free environment on board.

“More information can be found on our website: https://www.klm.nl/en/information/travel-class-extra-options/dietary-meals We regret that Mr. Kelly and Ms. Drever felt they had no choice but to leave the aircraft, and we understand their disappointment.”

ALL flights bound for a quaint UK seaside town have been axed after a domestic airline filed for administration.

Eastern Airways, that serves different destinations in England and Scotland, has filed a notice of intention to appoint an administrator as it stares down crippling debts of over £25million.

The news means that the carrier will no longer be flying to Wick, a popular Scottish coastal town.

Eastern Airways launched flights to the town’s airport with flights to Aberdeen in April 2022, after pausing during Covid.

But Wick John O’Groats Airport will receive its final flight on Sunday.

That means that from next week, the airport will no longer have any commercial flights.

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The local Highland Council is calling for a subsidized flight routes to continue to Wick from Aberdeen.

A spokesperson called the cancellation of Eastern Airways “deeply disappointing,” adding: “This makes the case not only for the continuation of the PSO air services to Wick but for the expansion of provision.”

Local businesses are set to be hit by the airline’s financial woes.

It comes after Wick High Street was given a £2millon boost to upgrade the main high street.

Eastern Airways launched back in 1997 and carries around 1.3million passengers each year.

The airline plays a key role in providing regional air travel across the UK, with current destinations including Wick and Aberdeen in Scotland, and then Humberside, Teeside International, London Gatwick and Newquay.

However, the airline has previously operated many other routes including to Gibraltar from Southampton and Birmingham.

Services to Gibraltar were launched back in 2021 but then axed just a year later.

And in March last year, the operator also cancelled its route between Cardiff to Paris Orly, France.

Only this year, did the airline also announce that it would be launching flights from Newquay in Cornwall, to London Southend Airport in Essex.

Currently, this route cannot be seen on the airline’s website.

Eastern Airways is also the number one provider of charter flights for sports teams in Europe – this includes Premier League and Championship football teams, Rugby Union teams and Super League teams.

For the 12 months to March 2024, Eastern Airways reported a net loss of £19.7million — £4.8million higher than the previous year.

The company’s total debt rose by £4.8million to £25.97million, while profit fell sharply to £454,000 from £1.55million the year before.

It isn’t the only airline that recently went bust this year.

Last month, Play Airlines announced that it would be ceasing operations with all flights being cancelled.

Play Airlines flew to a number of different European destinations likes London Stansted, Amsterdam, Paris and Faro.

And last year, Spirit Airlines – a US low-cost carrier – also filed for bankruptcy.

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Monarch Airlines ceased operations in 2017, which at the time was the UK’s largest ever to collapse.

Thomas Cook then shut down in 2019 – although the airline has since relaunched.

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly alternative to the UK’s overpriced Christmas markets, look no further than the ‘lesser known’ markets in Europe which offer a cosy day out without breaking the bank

Many believe there’s no better way to embrace the festive spirit than with a hot cup of mulled wine while perusing a European Christmas market. However, these events can often be quite pricey.

For instance, a cup of mulled wine at the Berlin Christmas market could set you back five euros, and an additional three if you fancy keeping the mug as a keepsake.

Staying closer to home doesn’t necessarily mean saving money either. It’s well known that UK Christmas markets are among the priciest in Europe.

For example, a visit to the Manchester Christmas markets this year could see you shelling out around £25 for a beer and a bratwurst.

If you’re eager to plan a festive trip but don’t want to break the bank, some of the ‘less popular’ European Christmas markets offer much more affordable prices. Plus, they’re usually less crowded than their UK counterparts, reports the Daily Record.

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In need of some ideas?

The team at Eurochange have done some digging into the best alternative Christmas markets across Europe, including the cheapest flights from the UK and average hotel costs. They’ve also investigated which cities offer the best exchange rates, so you know where your money will go furthest.

Laura Evans-Fisk, head of digital and engagement at Eurochange, said: “Our research shows the Christmas market in Wroclaw, Poland, is one of the best in Europe if you’re looking for excellent value for money and a truly authentic experience. Two nights of accommodation for two adults costs just £47, and food and drinks are very affordable. Sibiu in Romania is a close second when it comes to the cheapest Christmas markets in Europe. Here, you can get a mulled wine for just 86p.”

Sibiu, Romania

Laura describes Sibiu as Romania’s leading Christmas market destination, surpassing even Bucharest. The Transylvanian winter celebration, dubbed ‘The Fair In Sibiu’, attracts Romanians in crowds, running from November 14, 2025, through to January 4, 2026.

The town boasts a distinctive blend of Hungarian, Romanian and German influences, creating a cultural richness unmatched elsewhere in Transylvania, according to Laura. Set within the historic old town at Piața Mare, the markets are “beautifully decorated with thousands of fairy lights and festive trinkets”, she noted.

The affordability is particularly striking, she points out. Mulled wine typically ranges from five to 10 leu (merely £0.86).

Visitors should sample regional delicacies, including Kürtőskalács (spit cakes) and cozonac (sweet bread).

Wroclaw, Poland

According to Laura, Wroclaw is considered among Poland’s finest and most stunning Christmas markets. “It is an idyllic, real-life winter wonderland, scattered across the city,” she said.

Situated across Rynek Market Square, Place Solny, Świdnicka Street and Oławska Street, numerous stalls await visitors. Laura notes many vendors offer handcrafted items and delicacies, largely from independent traders.

Laura explains that prices remain highly accessible, with mulled wine available for merely 15 PLN (£3.08) plus a 15 PLN mug deposit. However, if you prefer not to keep the mug, surrounding restaurants and bars offer warming mulled wine for just 9 PLN (£1.85).

Innsbruck, Austria

Laura said: “Nothing will give you the ‘festive feels’ like roaming the streets of Innsbruck in the run-up to Christmas. The aroma of freshly made Kiachln (piping hot doughnuts laced with Sauerkraut) and the sound of Christmas carols are guaranteed to get you in the festive spirit.

“Fairy lights give the medieval alleys a magical glow, and in front of the city’s famous ‘Golden Roof’, you will find the Christmas markets. Visitors can also wander across to Innsbruck’s main shopping street, Maria-Theresien Straße, where there are even more chalets offering tasty snacks and handmade crafts.”

Tallinn, Estonia

“Tallinn Christmas market is a real-life fairytale in the heart of Estonia’s capital”, Laura says. Visitors can sample local delicacies, including black pudding, sour cabbage, gingerbread and warming festive tipples from 1-2 euros, making it amongst the cheapest and most authentic Christmas markets in Europe.

She said: “The real star of the show is the incredible market Christmas tree, which has been set up every year in the Town Hall Square since 1441, making it the first ever Christmas tree to be put on display in Europe.”

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Zagreb, Croatia

Croatia might not be the first destination that springs to mind when thinking of a ‘festive’ location, but Laura claims Zagreb’s Christmas market shouldn’t be overlooked. Also known as ‘Advent Zagreb,’ the city “truly comes to life” during the festive season with an epic Christmas market, a rich programme of music and art exhibitions, and an impressive ice-skating rink in King Tromislav Square.

PAULTONS Park has finally revealed the opening date for its much anticipated Viking Valgard land.

Valgard: Realm of the Vikings will be a “fully immersive Viking world bursting with all new adventures, epic discovery, and legendary rides”.

And the new £12million development is set to open on May 16, 2026.

Visitors will be able to head on Drakon – Paultons’ most thrilling rollercoaster yet with two inversions and a “beyond-vertical drop”.

There will also be Raven, which is the park’s Gerstlauer Bobsled ride reimagined and Vild Swing, which swings 12 metres high and is a first of its kind in the UK.

There will also be a themed playground.

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After exploring the attractions, visitors can head to the Feasting Hall where they can chose from a range of hearty dishes.

Valgard: Real of the Vikings will be located next to Lost Kingdom.

According to Paultons’ website, the land will be suitable for parents, older children and teenagers, with the new rides not for the faint-hearted.

James Mancey, deputy managing director at Paultons Park, previously said: “We’ve opened two brand-new rides in the last two years and with the build of Valgard firmly underway, we’re excited to open a further three, bigger-and-better-than-ever-before rides, between now and summer 2027.

“Valgard promises an immersive, atmospheric, and action-packed experience for families and has been specifically designed to grow with our fans.

“The introduction of inversions and a vertical lift hill on Drakon certainly up the adrenaline levels at Paultons Park, but staying true to our roots, we haven’t forgotten about the little ones and there is something for all of the family in our new Viking village.”

Once Valgard: Realm of the Vikings opens, the theme park will boast over 80 rides and attractions across six themed worlds.

In March of this year, the park also submitted plans to build a new holiday village with a resort offering.

It would be located next to Valgard: Realm of the Vikings and would feature between 85 and 95 lodges, parking and its own entrance.

In May, the park then also released a 26-second trailer on YouTube for 2027.

The video doesn’t show much other than a wave washing over a giant ‘2027’ sign standing on a rock, but many fans have speculated that the park will be getting a new water ride.

One person commented: “It’s gonna be the long rumoured water coaster.”

Another said: “Judging by the clue being water, I think that the new investment for 2027 will be a Mack Rides Water Coaster.”

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Paultons Park was also named the best theme park in the UK – scooping up 10 awards recently.

Plus, it is the UK’s best value theme park also has the shortest queue times in the country.

GLADIATORS fans will soon get the chance to live out the show in real life thanks to a new experience.

Birmingham will be getting The Gladiators Experience at the National Exhibition Centre (NEC), full of classic challenges seen on the popular TV show.

In total, the experience will sprawl across 10,000sqm and offer a gladiator ‘training facility’ as well as behind-the-scene insights.

Challenges include The Wall, Eliminator, Hang Tough, Duel and Travelator.

While little details have been revealed about what the different features look like, fans can expect the real-life challenges to be similar to the ones on the show.

For example, in Duel, contenders and gladiators face off on raised platforms, by trying to knock each other off.

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Then for The Wall, two contenders race to climb a large wall, whilst being chased by two gladiators.

For the Hang Tough challenge, contenders must swing on a trapeze as gladiators try to drag them down.

Visitors will then also be able to see behind the scenes of the TV show in the Vault.

And if they want to develop their skills further, they can head to the Gladiator Training Facility.

There will also be a shop where fans can purchase exclusive merchandise.

The experience will be open to all ages and expected to launch in May 2026.

Ticket prices and when they will go on sale are yet to be announced.

The show originally launched back in the 90s and is currently in its third revival.

On the show, contenders compete against gladiators in a series of challenges to earn points.

The show finishes after a final race called The Eliminator, where the contender with the most points gets a head start.

The winner is then the first person to complete the obstacle course.

Dom Bird, senior vice president at MGM Alternative Television said: “Now, fans young and old will get one step closer to walking in the footsteps of their heroes, as we announce our brand new Gladiators Experience.

“Based at the NEC Birmingham, everyone finally has the chance to test their skills on the iconic games – from Duel and Hang Tough, to The Wall, and of course the legendary Travelator.

“Come and see if you’ve got what it takes!”

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If you are looking for some other immersive experiences to head to, then there is a Titanic attraction with a major ‘wow’ moment.

Or you could head to the Paddington immersive experience in London with ‘train rides’ and street parties.

The Conwy Valley Line weaves through the dramatic valleys of Blaenau Ffestiniog, skirts a wildlife-abundant estuary and traces the rolling hillsides and striking rock faces of this breathtaking corner of North West Wales

One of Britain’s most picturesque railway routes has welcomed passengers back after reopening to the public.

The Conwy Valley Line weaves through the dramatic valleys of Blaenau Ffestiniog, skirts a wildlife-abundant estuary and traces the rolling hillsides and striking rock faces of this breathtaking corner of North West Wales.

Despite covering just 26 miles between Llandudno and Blaenau Ffestiniog, the journey takes over an hour. This is mainly because of the line’s winding and steep character, which snakes through the spectacular mountains and wild beauty of Snowdonia National Park.

Whilst the route primarily serves local residents and daily commuters, it has become a magnet for railway enthusiasts. One visitor praised on Tripadvisor: “The line from Blaenau Ffestiniog up to Llandudno is incredibly scenic, and if you’re looking for a rail journey in Snowdonia this is right up there with the heritage narrow gauge lines.”

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During a debate about Britain’s most beautiful railway routes, one rail enthusiast commented: “How has nobody mentioned the Conwy Valley? It’s utterly spectacular and crams more into an hour than the ECML does into four. One of the nicest little tours you can do in the UK is a loop of Chester-Llandudno Jn-Blaenau-Porthmadog-Machynlleth-Shrewsbury-Chester, though you’ll probably need to use a bus rather than the FfR for the middle bit at present.”, reports the Express.

The railway line welcomed passengers back on Monday, 27 October, after a month of round-the-clock engineering work by Network Rail, forming part of a £1.4 million investment to strengthen the railway against severe weather conditions.

Throughout the past four weeks, engineering crews have been operating across the picturesque valley – felling dangerous trees and clearing 600,000m2 of overgrown vegetation spanning 54 miles of railway track. The extensive clearance work aims to stop fallen trees from obstructing the line when storms strike in future.

An innovative, cutting-edge approach to tackling the traditional issue of leaves on the line is also being tested.

Network Rail has introduced a pioneering rail treatment to the Conwy Valley line for the first time in Wales. A specialist road-to-rail vehicle has been applying a gel formula to the tracks.

The treatment dissolves leaf debris and remains active for up to seven days before being reactivated by rainfall.

“The Conwy Valley line is one of the most picturesque in Wales, but also one of the most weather-exposed. In the past decade, storms have forced the line to close for more than 500 days – disrupting passengers and the transportation of freight goods,” Network Rail wrote in a statement.

Beyond its scenic beauty, the line offers numerous attractions at various stations along the route. Visitors can:

• Experience life as a Welsh slate miner at Llechwedd, where you can join a deep mine tour, go off-road in a quarry explorer, or have a go at slate splitting. From the mine, you can take a ride on Europe’s steepest cable railway as you’re brought back to the surface.
• Learn about local life at Llandudno Museum and Gallery, which is located in the heart of this seaside town. It is a great place to uncover the fascinating stories of local people and how the area has developed over hundreds of years.
• Discover hidden gems as you explore the Conwy Valley line on foot with Ramblers and Transport for Wales. Travel by train and explore on foot with a series of exciting walking routes with Go Jauntly and Transport for Wales.
• Request a stop at Roman Bridge. The station is an ideal starting point for walkers and cyclists looking to explore the area’s breathtaking scenery. Take in the views of the secluded cwm of Blaenau Dolwyddelan before walking to Dolwyddelan Castle, the 12th-century stronghold of Prince Llywelyn the Great.
• Stop off at Deganwy. The town overlooks Snowdonia, the Conwy Estuary, Puffin Island, and Anglesey. Just behind the town is the site of Castell Deganwy, once the seat of King Maelgwn Gwynedd. This much-visited attraction (rebuilt by Henry III in 1245) dates back to the 6th century and plays an important role in the history of Wales.
• Frolic in the spray of a waterfall. The Conwy Falls are located near Vetws-y-Coed and cascade down a gorge in the Fairuy Glen area.

TUI, British Airways and Virgin Atlantic have all cancelled or delayed flights and holidays across Jamaica following the devastating hurricane.

Hurricane Melissa, a Category 5 hurricane, made landfall yesterday on the island with speeds up to 160mph.

New images coming from Jamaica show widespread destruction, with most of the island left without power.

As many as 8,000 Brits are thought to be on holiday in the country, with many taking shelter in hotels.

And tour operators and airlines have since been cancelling holidays in response.

TUI has cancelled all flights to Jamaica until October 31, although this may be extended.

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And all package holidays to Jamaica have been cancelled until at least the end of the week (November 2).

They said in a statement: “We’re working hard to assess the full impact of Hurricane Melissa in Jamaica and the extent of damage to local infrastructure including resorts, roads and airports. 

“We want to reassure our customers that their safety and wellbeing remains our absolute top priority. 

“We understand this is an unsettling time and ask that customers currently in Jamaica continue to follow the advice of local authorities and their resort teams. ”

Virgin Atlantic has only cancelled flights up until tomorrow although this is very likely to be extended.

Flights VS165 and VS165 have been cancelled tomorrow (October 30).

And British Airways has also cancelled a number of upcoming flights, with passengers told to contact the airline.

Both Norman Manley International Airport and Sangster International Airport remain closed.

Just remember that you must not cancel your holiday ahead of the your tour operator or you will be left out of pocket.

This is because the Foreign Office has not warned again travel to Jamaica – it is only when it is advised against, that you can cancel a holiday for a full refund.

Instead it is better to contact the tour operator and see if you can push back your flight if you are wary of travelling.

Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper said: “The FCDO stands ready to help British nationals 24/7.

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“We have set up a crisis centre in the Foreign Office, including with support from the (Ministry of Defence), and we are also positioning specialist rapid deployment teams to provide consular assistance to British nationals in the region.

“Any British nationals who are there should follow our travel advice and the advice of the Jamaican authorities.”

When booking a flight, most people will always choose between window or aisle — but one of these choices is actually significantly better than the other for a couple of reasons

When it comes to booking a flight, there are typically two preferred seating options. No one fancies being sandwiched in the middle of a row, so most passengers will always opt for either window or aisle. However, one of these choices is significantly superior to the other for a couple of reasons.

One key reason is that this seat is more likely to be thoroughly cleaned between flights, reports the Express.

According to Andrea Platania, travel expert at Transfeero, the aisle seat is “always a winner”.

She explained: “Cabin crews have limited time between flights to clean every row, and reaching window seats properly is tricky.

“The aisle seats tend to be wiped more thoroughly simply because they’re easier to access.”

In addition to likely receiving a more comprehensive cleaning, the aisle seat also feels a bit fresher during long-haul flights. This is due to the way air circulates within the plane’s cabin.

Andrea clarified: “Air in the cabin circulates from top to bottom and side to side. So while the whole plane shares the same filtered air, being in the aisle gives slightly more exposure to moving air, as it can feel fresher, especially on older aircraft.”

Those who favour the aisle seat often mention more freedom to move as one of the reasons they prefer it. You don’t have to scramble over other people to get to the loo, or stretch your legs.

Andrea stated: “You can move when you want without asking anyone to stand up or doing that awkward shuffle past strangers. Being in the aisle means you can stretch, go to the loo or grab something from the overhead bin whenever you please.”

Those lucky enough to snag an aisle seat are also typically among the first to disembark the flight.

Andrea added: “When everyone stands up at once, you’re already halfway to the door while the window seat passengers are still waiting to squeeze out.

“For business travellers or anyone catching a transfer, those few minutes can be priceless.”