TRAVEL

Escape the cold with these hidden European gems perfect for a winter sun getaway, with budget flights for £150 or less from the UK.

As the chilly weather and shorter days persist, you might be yearning for a dose of winter sun. More and more Brits are opting to escape abroad in the early months of the year.

Data from ONS1 shows that UK residents took 18.7 million overseas trips from January to March 2025, a significant increase from the 16.7 million recorded in 2024.

While well-known destinations like Tenerife and Corfu are undoubtedly favoured during this season, Europe also boasts a plethora of lesser-known treasures ideal for a winter retreat.

With this in mind, the travel experts at Eurochange have compiled a list of top winter sun spots that won’t break the bank, with flights from the UK costing £150 or less.

Cadiz, Spain

• Return flights: From £34 from London Stansted to Seville in January
• Accommodation price: Starting from £51 per person, per night
• Average January-March temperature: Highs of 17°C

The seaside town of Cadiz, just a brief train journey from Seville, is brimming with remarkable landmarks to explore, including the Castle of Santa Catalina and the Torre Tavira, which offers breathtaking views of the city. Nestled in one of Spain’s warmest regions, temperatures in Cadiz seldom dip below 10°C, even during the winter.

Formentera, Spain

• Return flights: From £57 from London Stansted to Ibiza in March
• Accommodation price: Starting from £62 per person, per night
• Average January temperature: Highs of 16°C

If you’re an Ibiza enthusiast seeking a quieter, more affordable, yet equally stunning alternative, Formentera could be your perfect match. Once a ‘hippie’ commune, the island retains a laid-back atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for those seeking tranquillity during their holiday.

Karpas Peninsula, Cyprus

• Return flights: From £62 from London Gatwick to Larnaca in March
• Accommodation price: Starting from £55 per person, per night
• Average Jan-March temperature: Highs of 16°C

Highlighting the Karpas Peninsula, also known simply as Karpass, the travel specialists said: “This much less densely populated area of Northern Cyprus stretches 80km to the northernmost tip of the island, and is a great winter sun destination that also offers seclusion.

“It is considered one of the most unspoiled places anywhere in the Mediterranean, with beautiful deserted beaches and natural beauty in the Dipkarpaz National Park. In terms of where to stay, there are lots of beautiful farmhouses in Iskele. But if you prefer to stay in a town, Rizokarpaso is a good option – a quaint beach town with plenty of ancient landmarks to explore and a beautiful marina.”

São Vicente, Madeira, Portugal

• Return flights: From £37 from London Stansted to Madeira Airport in January
• Accommodation price: Starting from £25 per person, per night
• Average January temperature: Highs of 19°C

Famous for its breathtaking landscapes, spectacular coastlines and superb wines, Madeira makes an ideal choice for those seeking to escape Britain’s chilly winter months. São Vicente, situated in the extensive Laurissilva region, is celebrated for its valleys and vineyards, and also boasts numerous hidden beaches waiting to be discovered.

Valletta, Malta

• Return flights: From £38 from London Gatwick to Valletta in March
• Accommodation price: Starting from £31 per person, per night
• Average January temperature: Highs of 16°C

Valletta, Malta’s capital, is an underappreciated European treasure, which the specialists have described as a “little oasis in the heart of the Mediterranean.” Dubbed the ‘sunny city’, Valletta enjoys an average of 2,957 hours of sunshine annually, making it an excellent winter sun escape.

Palermo, Sicily

• Return flights: From £35 from London Stansted to Palermo
• Accommodation price: Starting from £40 per person, per night
• Average January temperature: Highs of 15°C

“For those who want to sample an Italian city break with fewer crowds in January, Palermo should be top of the list,” say the experts. “Situated on the North-west coast of Sicily, the southernmost island in Italy, it’s a perfect winter sun destination.

“Palermo offers both city break and beach holiday vibes, with plenty of gorgeous beaches and cute seaside towns just a short drive from the city centre. Spend your days meandering the cobbled streets, exploring the stunning Gothic architecture and the many churches and cathedrals. No Italian city break is complete without sampling the local cuisine of course, and in Palermo, the Arancini is a must-try.”

ALMOST 200 flights have been cancelled and delayed across the UK today as seven weather warnings remain in place.

A total of 41 flights have been grounded today as a result of the snow and ice, with a further 152 routes experiencing delays.

Nine major airports across the UK have grounded flights due to the current weather conditions.

On Monday, Liverpool John Lennon Airport was forced to close due to a snow-covered runway.

While the Liverpool Airport has since re-opened, cancellations and disruptions continue to plague passengers across the UK after temperatures plummeted as low as minus 12.5C overnight.

Yesterday’s severe weather also led to cancellations and disruptions to flights out of Scotland and Northern Ireland.

GROWING UP

One of Spain’s most underrated cities is in ‘Garden of Europe’ with £17 flights

GOING SNOW-WHERE

UK airport is forced to SHUT snow-covered runway as flights are cancelled

Scots airline Loganair cancelled two flights from Aberdeen, with routes to Kirkwall and Norwich scrapped as an amber warning was issued for heavy snow across north-east and northern Scotland until 7pm.

Meanwhile, air passengers across England are also experiencing disruptions, with London Heathrow currently experiencing departure delays an average of 39 minutes.

The airport has also topped today’s list of cancellations at eight, with a further 87 delays, according to FlightAware.

Aberdeen and London City follow with six cancellations each, and five and two flight delays respectively.

And its not just outbound flights that have been affected, with Edinburgh reporting arrival delays for airborne aircraft at an average of 28 minutes.

These wait times are expected to increase as the Arctic Blast continues into the evening.

Anyone planning to travel is advised to check with their flight’s status with their airline before heading to the airport.

With certain areas of England hit with heavy snow, disruptions have not been limited to air travel.

Rail passengers are also experiencing chaos as National Rail confirmed that disruptions are expected on the Wirral and Northern line services, as well as to trains across Scotland.

Meanwhile, Aberdeen – Dundee railway has partially reopened following closure yesterday due to heavy snow.

Those travelling between Edinburgh and Aberdeen have been issued a “Do Not Travel” warning until at least 2pm today.

The Glasgow subway was also closed this morning due to harsh weather conditions.

Select rail services across England have also been suspended due to snow, with passengers advised to verify their route is still operating before arriving at their station.

And motorists can also expect delays as breakdown companies including the AA and RAC are experiencing high demand.

A spokesman for the Met Office said milder temperatures are expected towards the end of the week, though further snow is possible on Sunday as the warmer air meets cold air.

Ramsgate in Kent attracts visitors with its stunning coastline and sandy beaches, but the seaside town has been dubbed ‘depressing’ by locals as dozens of shops lie vacant

An iconic British seaside town is “dying a death” as empty shops clutter the high street and daytrippers stay away.

When you picture British seaside towns, images of sandy shores, the aroma of fish and chips wafting through the air, the clang of a penny arcade and, naturally, ice cream spring to mind. Many UK coastal resorts deliver this experience, even if you have to endure the chill of a British coastal day.

But many more suffer from a series of economic challenges that make life on the British coast harder, in many ways, than that in inland towns and cities. Median pay in almost all coastal towns is lower than the counties in which they sit; funding formulas often leave coastal kids benefitting from half the cash as their city counterparts; and levels of obesity, smoking and substance abuse are higher than the national average in coastal towns, Prospect reports.

While many of Britain’s coastal towns and villages buck this trend – Broadstairs being a prime example – others are stuck in a seaside economic rut. One such place is Ramsgate in Kent.

OPINION

Milo Boyd

READ MORE: Brits warned against key luggage mistake that can actually make it easier for thieves

“The more I have visited Ramsgate over the years, the more I have noticed how empty it has become,” writes the Express’s Millie Bull. “The town was once filled with bustling independent shops, unique eateries and a steady stream of visitors.”

A report at the end of 2024 from Kent Online revealed that a staggering 65 shop units—almost one in four—sat empty. This compares with the one in seven outlets that are empty nationwide. In Ramsgate, more than half of the shops are not advertised as for sale or rent.

“This was highlighted on my most recent trip to the town when I spotted a plethora of boarded-up shops and empty display windows covered in old posters,” Millie added.

Jack Gilhooly, who owns local pet shop Sherley’s on Queen Street, fears his business, which has been in situ for more than half a century, may not manage to stay open for much longer. “The town’s dying a death. We’re really struggling, every business in Ramsgate is struggling,” he told Mail Online.

“If you stayed here for an hour, you’d see maybe 100 people walk past. You’ll get about five people coming into your store, maybe three spend money. It’s just not sustainable.”

Louise Brookes is determined to stop the rot. She set up Ramsgate Space, which tracks empty shops and finds businesses to fill them. She told Channel 4: “Empty shops matter because they touch on so many different components of local life. It impacts how people feel about the place. You go into the town centre and you don’t feel good about the place.” Ramsgate Space provides business support and advice for small companies that want to move into a retail space.

Kent County Council is also attempting to address the issue. It announced last year that the formerly derelict Old Wine Warehouse on Charlotte Court had been transformed into three distinct spaces offering a comfortable office environment with hot desks (Ramsgate Works), a café area with outside courtyard seating and gardens and an atmospheric cellar bar and performance space (Ramsgate Arts Club). The council’s No Use Empty scheme contributed £431,500 towards the project through low-cost loans.

While Ramsgate suffers, the surrounding towns of Deal, Margate, Broadstairs and Whitstable have experienced a relative revival, with Londoners flocking in large numbers to enjoy seaside weekends whilst browsing trendy vintage shops or dining at fashionable eateries.

Last year, Deal received praise from celebrated food critic Grace Dent following her visit to the Japanese-influenced restaurant The Blue Pelican. Meanwhile, Broadstairs, which earned recognition as one of Britain’s ‘coolest’ places to reside, has emerged as a tourist magnet after featuring in Sam Mendes ‘ film Empire of the Sun, which starred Olivia Colman.

The charming coastal town of Whitstable has long been nicknamed ‘Chelsea-on-sea’, whilst Ramsgate’s trendy neighbour Margate remains constantly bustling thanks to its sandy shores, retro amusement park Dreamland, and lively bars.

Speaking to the Express, one local asked: “Strange because Broadstairs and Margate are doing okay. Why isn’t Ramsgate?”

The website Travelsupermarket has looked at where families can save hundreds of pounds on their week in the sun this summer

Bulgaria has emerged as the top spot for a bargain summer getaway this year, families have been advised.

With January’s peak booking season in full swing, website TravelSupermarket revealed what it says are the most affordable countries for those planning an all-inclusive sunshine holiday in 2026. Bulgaria claimed the top spot, with an average of £760 per person for a week-long stay. In second place was Morocco, at an average £852 per person for seven nights, then Malta at £862.

The data was based on analysing family holiday searches conducted between October 5 last year and last week, for travel between May and September 2026. It found big price differences across popular destinations.

Looking across 13 popular destinations, the average price of a week in Bulgaria has fallen by £54 per person – or 7% – since last summer. At the other extreme, Cyprus was found to be the most expensive in the selection, at £1,186 per person.

Spain, ever popular with Brits, and including the Balearic and Canary Islands, ranked fourth in this year’s list, at £888 per person, with prices remaining virtually unchanged from 2025. Turkey was in 11th place, costing an average £1,057, with Greece in 12th position at £1,096.

Croatia is 10th cheapest for this summer, at an average £1,046 person. But the cost of typical break to the country has tumbled by 12% since last year, making it £136 cheaper this summer.

Travelsupermarket also looked at where families looking to head long-haul could get the most bang for their buck. It found Cape Verde offered the best value, at £1,247 per person, followed by the United Arab Emirates (£1,297), then the Dominican Republic (£1,664), and Mexico (£1,694).

Chris Webber, head of holidays and deals at TravelSupermarket said: “Bulgaria looks set to reclaim its crown as the go-to bargain all-inclusive destination.

“Despite the increases, Tunisia and Morocco remain firmly in the top five cheapest countries, so families can still find excellent value there. Croatia had been starting to get a reputation as a pricey destination, especially since adopting the Euro in January 2023, so this 12% price drop is really good news for families who were beginning to feel priced out of this beautiful destination.”

Cheapest short-haul summer holiday destinations for 2026

1. Bulgaria £760
2. Morocco £852
3. Malta £862
4. Spain £888
5. Tunisia £934
6. Italy £948
7. Egypt £1,010
8. Portugal £1,017
9. Montenegro £1,037
10. Croatia £1,046
11. Turkey £1,057
12. Greece £1,096
13. Cyprus £1,186

Jetting off on a winter getaway is a desire many people have and travellers have been urged to give specific packing methods a try to help them potentially save hundreds of pounds

People jetting off abroad this January have been urged to be careful when it comes to packing, or risk having to pay a costly baggage charge at the airport. Frigid temperatures, icy weather, and persistent snowfall in some parts of the country have got many people fantasising about a winter getaway.

Those lucky enough to be going on holiday this winter have to be careful when it comes to their clothing, though – especially items used to ward off the January chill. According to a spokesperson from Ski Vertigo, bulky winter items are one of the biggest causes of unexpected baggage fees during January travel.

They say this is because travellers often pack heavy coats and footwear without realising how quickly weight limits are exceeded. Airlines charge for bags that go over set size and weight limits – and fees can add up fast.

Baggage charges vary depending on the airline, flight route and more. Typically, there’ll be higher fees for checked bags, with overweight bags typically incurring charges of between £12 and £25, or sometimes more, per extra kilogram beyond the designated allowance.

It’s best to always check your specific airline’s policy before flying to avoid any unwanted surprises at the airport.

A spokesperson from Ski Vertigo said: “Excess baggage charges can reach well over £100 per flight, with some airlines charging per kilo once limits are passed. For families or return journeys, costs can quickly reach £200 or more.”

In a bid to avoid this, experts recommend wearing the bulkiest items during your outbound journey. Thick or long coats, chunky jumpers and heavy boots take up a lot of space in suitcases and can quickly weigh it down. Ski Vertigo advises wearing these items through the airport in order to free up room in your luggage and avoid weight issues at check-in.

Once you’re through security, you’ll be able to remove those outer layers to make the journey more manageable while still taking advantage of the extra space in your bag. The pros also recommend stuffing accessories like gloves, socks, and scarves inside packed shoes, as empty boots and trainers can take up excessive space and, when empty, that space is often wasted.

This can be useful on winter trips, where these items are necessary, yet may be forgotten until the last minute. Adding them to shoes in checked bags ensures they’re readily available – and they can provide an added layer of protection for your shoes.

Ski Vertigo said limiting coats to one versatile option is also “key”. Many people pack multiple coats “just in case”, only to wear one throughout the trip. A single insulated, waterproof coat works for airports, city breaks, and winter destinations, reducing both bulk and weight.

The spokesperson added that January travellers often underestimate how strict baggage checks can be. Despite winter travel requiring heavier clothing, airline limits remain the same all year round. Many passengers are stuck having to pay excess fees at the airport after packing bulky items like ski jackets and boots into their bags.

One person took to Reddit and asked: “So let’s assume you are only allowed 23 kg per suitcase, but you have more. How much tolerance leeway do you have and what does it depend on? What are your experiences with excess baggage and goodwill/room for manoeuvre?”

In response, one person simply said: “It depends on the agent so my advice is… I wouldn’t risk it but you can if you want to invite hassle and annoy people around you.”

Another added: “Most airports I have been to they will charge you for being over the limit at all. It’s a limit for a reason. Plan on being slightly under the limit unless you want to plan to argue with the staff. Seems rude though.”

ONE of the most popular UK holiday parks has launched an all-inclusive offer – and it includes all your food and drink.

Parkdean’s new offer is being rolled out across 42 of its 65 resorts in the UK.

The all-inclusive package starts from £25 per adult per day and £10 per child per day.

It includes three meals a day and unlimited soft drinks, including Costa Coffee.

The parks cover the whole of the UK with destinations in favourite spots like Cornwall, Devon, Dorset, Norfolk, Snowdonia, the Isle of Wight, and the Lake District.

Caravan holidays without the package start from £89 for four nights.

SEA YOU THERE

The Sun’s favourite hotels, holiday parks, cottages & campsites in Cornwall

QUID’S IN

Holidays you can sort for summer for just £1 – with waterparks & private beaches

So a family of four can enjoy four nights with food, drink, and accommodation for as little as under £93 per day when adding the all-inclusive package.

With these prices, holidays can be as low as £23.25 per day with the all-inclusive package.

Andy Edge, Chief Marketing Officer at Parkdean Resorts said: “Following the huge success of our trial at ten parks in 2025, we are rolling out our all-inclusive offer to a total of 42 holiday parks this year – making us one of the largest providers of all-inclusive UK holiday park breaks.

“Families of four can save over £300 by going all-inclusive, making this an extremely cost-effective option for families seeking action-packed breaks in some of the UK’s most scenic and sought-after locations.”

The offer is available only on four-night Monday to Friday breaks during selected spring and early summer dates.

To book the offer, you must be arriving at one of the selected parks between February 16 to March 23, 2026.

Other included dates include between April 20, to May 18 and then June 1 to July 13, 2026.

While main meals are included in the offer for dinner, starters, sides and desserts are not.

And you cannot book all-inclusive for one day – it has to cover the whole break.

Any dishes over £19.99 will include a £5 supplementary charge.

The website also added that ‘Bottled soft drinks, canned soft drinks, non-alcoholic cocktails, hand-crafted sodas, mixers and dash measures of soft drinks are excluded’.

You can stay in a range of accommodation across Parkdean Resorts including their caravans.

Each comes with a lounge with Freeview TV, a fully equipped kitchen with cooker and fridge, a bathroom with shower, and between 1-4 bedrooms.

These 42 Parkdean Resorts Are Offering All-Inclusive Packages…

• Bideford Bay Holiday Park, Devon
• California Cliffs Holiday Park, Great Yarmouth
• Camber Sands Holiday Park, Sussex
• Carmarthen Bay Holiday Park, Wales
• Cayton Bay Holiday Park, Yorkshire
• Challaborough Bay Holiday Park, Devon
• Cherry Tree Holiday Park, Norfolk
• Coopers Beach Holiday Park, Essex
• Crimdon Dene Holiday Park, County Durham
• Grannie’s Heilan’ Hame Holiday Park, Scotland
• Highfield Grange Holiday Park, Essex
• Kessingland Beach Holiday Park, Suffolk
• Lizard Point Holiday Park, Cornwall
• Looe Bay Holiday Park, Cornwall
• Lower Hyde Holiday Park, Isle of Wight
• Manor Park Holiday Park, Norfolk
• Nairn Lochloy Holiday Park, Scotland
• Naze Marine Holiday Park, Essex
• Newquay Holiday Park, Cornwall
• Nodes Point Holiday Park, Isle of Wight
• Ocean Edge Holiday Park, Lancashire
• Pendine Sands Holiday Park, Wales
• Romney Sands Holiday Park, Kent
• Sandford Holiday Park, Dorset
• Sandy Bay Holiday Park, Dorset
• Skipsea Sands Holiday Park, Yorkshire
• Southerness Holiday Park, Scotland
• Southview Holiday Park, Lincolnshire
• Sundrum Castle Holiday Park, Scotland
• Thorness Bay Holiday Park, Isle of Wight
• Torquay Holiday Park, Devon
• Trecco Bay Holiday Park, Wales
• Tummel Valley Holiday Park, Scotland
• Ty Mawr Holiday Park, Wales
• Valley Farm Holiday Park, Essex
• Vauxhall Holiday Park, Great Yarmouth
• Warmwell Holiday Park, Dorset
• Wemyss Bay Holiday Park, Scotland
• West Bay Holiday Park, Dorset
• White Acres Holiday Park, Cornwall
• White Cross Bay Holiday Park, Lake District
• Whitley Bay Holiday Park, Northumberland

For more on Parkdean, these two holiday parks are getting a multi-million pound upgrade.

Plus, more on another holiday resort that one woman visits every year with her family.

THE price for passenger drop-offs at London’s second busiest airport has jumped 40 percent.

That’s a £3 increase from previous charge of £7 and will apply to all drivers entering the drop off zone, excluding Blue Badge holders.

From today London Gatwick will have the highest drop-off fees in the country thanks to the new £10 charge.

The price has steadily increased over the years since it was first introduced in 2021 and was only £5.

It jumped to £6 in 2024 before being increased to £7 just a year later in May 2025.

“Poor old passengers and drivers are getting another blow to the pocket,” complained travel writer Andy Mossack in an interview with BBC Radio Surrey.

MAKING WAVES

Colossal new seaside town next to UK airport is approved under plans

GOING SNOW-WHERE

UK airport is forced to SHUT snow-covered runway as flights are cancelled

“It is disgraceful.”

London Gatwick, which is the busiest single runway airport in Europe, said it was “not a decision they took lightly”.

However, it cited reasons such as the “doubling of business rates” as one of the reasons for the increase in cost.

A spokesperson for Gatwick suggested passengers could use the free shuttle bus if they are dropped of in the long stay car park.

They added: “We also have excellent public transport connectivity at the airport, with passengers able to connect directly with more than 120 train stations.

“Many local bus routes serve the airport 24  hours a day, seven days a week.”

Drop off fees have also increased at London Heathrow with its drop off fee increasing from £6 to £7 on January 1.

It is also introducing a strict 10-minute drop off time, with drivers charged £80 if they go over.

And London City, the last of the London airports to allow free drop offs, will be introducing a new charge in 2026 as well.

NOW is the time to start planning your summer 2026 holiday, with travel companies launching their January sales.

And new research has revealed the most affordable destinations – both short and long haul – to head to.

TravelSupermarket looked at the price of all-inclusive holidays across some of the most popular short-haul destinations in both Europe and Africa.

The study looked at holiday searches between October 5, 2025 and January 4, 2026, when booking for travel between May and September 2026.

Coming in first place was Bulgaria, with an average price of £760pp for a week-long, all-inclusive stay.

Yet we found some for as little as £239pp for an all-inclusive week away each, with loveholidays.

Read more on cheap holidays

ALL IN

I found the best value all inclusive London hotel… just £55pp with free food & booze

GO ALL IN

75 years since all-inclusive holidays launched, here’s 75 great deals right now

Bulgaria is often named one of the cheapest European destinations for a holiday – last year Nessebar was named by easyJet as one of the cheapest seaside destinations, with beers from £1.60.

Coming in second place, according to TravelSupermarket, was Morocco, with all-inclusive stays on average at £852.

Morocco is often seen as a great winter sun destination without having to go too far, with popular destinations including Marrakech, Agadir and Fez.

Similarly, all-inclusive holidays can be found for as little as £259pp on loveholidays.

Other cheap holiday destinations include Malta, with all-inclusive holidays £862 on average, followed by Spain (£888) and Tunisia (£934).

However, when it comes to the destinations which have dropped in price, Croatia has seen the biggest fall.

Holidays, on average, have fallen by £136pp, around 22 per cent.

And while Morocco and Tunisia remain as some of the more affordable destinations, they are starting to increase in price.

Tunisia holidays are up £170 compared to last year (up 22 per cent) while Morocco holidays are up £125 (up 17 per cent).

Chris Webber, Head of Holidays and Deals at TravelSupermarket, said: “Bulgaria looks set to reclaim its crown as the go-to bargain all-inclusive destination.

“Despite the increases, Tunisia and Morocco remain firmly in the top five cheapest countries, so families can still find excellent value there.”

When it comes to the best affordable long-haul destinations, Cape Verde came out on top.

Around six hours from the UK by plane, the average all-inclusive holiday comes out at £1,247 – down six per cent compared to last year.

This was followed by the UAE at £1,297 (a drop of nine per cent) and the Dominican Republic at £1,664 (down four per cent).

Destinations that have increased include Sri Lanka – up 22 per cent compared to 2025 – and Jamaica, up 16 per cent.

The Maldives is the only destination where all-inclusive holidays have remained the same in price with an average of £1,857.

It’s been 75 years since all-inclusive holidays launched – so we found 75 of the best deals.

Don’t want to leave the UK? Here are the secret all-inclusive resorts you can find in Britain.

The family-friendly holiday park operator is offering the package to visitors who want to avoid cooking and washing up during their stay, with three meals a day included in the price

Holiday park operator Parkdean Resorts is launching an all-inclusive package at 42 of its UK-based parks during selected dates in 2026 with prices from just £25 a day for adults.

The package will include three meals a day, unlimited soft drinks, and all-you-can-drink Costa Coffee. After trialling the package at ten parks in 2025, the option to book an all-inclusive break will be extended to over 40 of its parks during spring and early summer.

The upgrade will be available for those booking four-night breaks between Monday and Friday on dates between February 16 and March 23, April 20 and May 18, or June 1 to July 13. The price starts at £25 per adult and £10 for children, while a four-night caravan holiday costs from £89, meaning a family of four could enjoy a midweek break that includes all meals and accommodation for under £400.

To book an all-inclusive break, all holidaymakers need to do is add the option when checking out on the Parkdean website. There’s also an option to add all-inclusive dining to your break once you arrive at the park, if you’re not quite sure about upgrading.

Parkdean have revealed the list of parks that’ll offer the all-inclusive package, and it includes family-friendly destinations such as Cornwall, Dorset, the Isle of Wight, and the Lake District, giving plenty of choices of places to stay.

Andy Edge, Chief Marketing Officer at Parkdean Resorts, said: “Following the huge success of our trial at ten parks in 2025, we are rolling out our all-inclusive offer to a total of 42 holiday parks this year – making us one of the largest providers of all-inclusive UK holiday park breaks.

“Families of four can save over £300 by going all-inclusive, making this an extremely cost-effective option for families seeking action-packed breaks in some of the UK’s most scenic and sought-after locations.”

List of Parkdean Resorts parks offering all-inclusive breaks:

1. Bideford Bay Holiday Park, Devon
2. California Cliffs Holiday Park, Great Yarmouth
3. Camber Sands Holiday Park, Sussex
4. Carmarthen Bay Holiday Park, Wales
5. Cayton Bay Holiday Park, Yorkshire
6. Challaborough Bay Holiday Park, Devon
7. Cherry Tree Holiday Park, Norfolk
8. Coopers Beach Holiday Park, Essex
9. Crimdon Dene Holiday Park, County Durham
10. Grannie’s Heilan’ Hame Holiday Park, Scotland
11. Highfield Grange Holiday Park, Essex
12. Kessingland Beach Holiday Park, Suffolk
13. Lizard Point Holiday Park, Cornwall
14. Looe Bay Holiday Park, Cornwall
15. Lower Hyde Holiday Park, Isle of Wight
16. Manor Park Holiday Park, Norfolk
17. Nairn Lochloy Holiday Park, Scotland
18. Naze Marine Holiday Park, Essex
19. Newquay Holiday Park, Cornwall
20. Nodes Point Holiday Park, Isle of Wight
21. Ocean Edge Holiday Park, Lancashire
22. Pendine Sands Holiday Park, Wales
23. Romney Sands Holiday Park, Kent
24. Sandford Holiday Park, Dorset
25. Sandy Bay Holiday Park, Dorset
26. Skipsea Sands Holiday Park, Yorkshire
27. Southerness Holiday Park, Scotland
28. Southview Holiday Park, Lincolnshire
29. Sundrum Castle Holiday Park, Scotland
30. Thorness Bay Holiday Park, Isle of Wight
31. Torquay Holiday Park, Devon
32. Trecco Bay Holiday Park, Wales
33. Tummel Valley Holiday Park, Scotland
34. Ty Mawr Holiday Park, Wales
35. Valley Farm Holiday Park, Essex
36. Vauxhall Holiday Park, Great Yarmouth
37. Warmwell Holiday Park, Dorset
38. Wemyss Bay Holiday Park, Scotland
39. West Bay Holiday Park, Dorset
40. White Acres Holiday Park, Cornwall
41. White Cross Bay Holiday Park, Lake District
42. Whitley Bay Holiday Park, Northumberland

For more information and bookings visit the Parkdean Resorts website.

Have a story you want to share? Email us at webtravel@reachplc.com

The 8-kilometre bridge is crossed by about 70,000 people each day

For more than 24 years, the 8-kilometre Øresund Bridge has served as a crucial link between Sweden and Denmark, providing a combined railway and motorway connection across the Øresund strait.

The bridge, a joint venture between Swedish firm Svedab and Danish company A/S Øresundsforbindelsen, makes up half of the journey from Sweden to the Danish Island of Amager.

Beginning near the city of Malmo on the Swedish coast, it extends to the man-made Danish Island of Peberholm, situated in the middle of the strait.

From Peberholm, a tunnel completes the remaining journey to the island of Amager, where Copenhagen airport is located, bringing the total distance travelled to around 16 km.

Construction on the bridge began in 1995, and it officially opened its lanes to traffic in July 2000. Just two years later, it was recognised with the IABSE Outstanding Structure Award, reports the Mirror.

Peberholm acts as a junction between the tunnel and the bridge.

It’s fitted with a motorway exit, restricted to authorised vehicles only, and a helicopter pad for use in emergencies.

The bridge, which sees an average daily footfall of 70,000 people, came with a hefty price tag of around £3.4 billion. The cost is expected to be recouped by 2037.

Crossing fees vary depending on the type of vehicle. Motorcyclists are charged £25.68, passenger cars £50.77, and vans, motorhomes or passenger cars with a trailer pay a staggering £178.55.

The Øresund Bridge claims the second spot as the longest bridge in Europe, only outdone by the 18.1km Kerch Bridge.

The latter spans the Kerch Strait, linking the Taman Peninsula of Krasnodar Krai in Russia and the Kerch Peninsula of Crimea.

PART of a popular beach in the UK has been forced to close due to safety fears.

An ‘active and ongoing landslip’ has resulted in huge boulders falling from the cliffs on Monmouth Beach.

The beach – part of the 95-mile Jurassic Coast in Dorset – has since closed off sections to the public.

Anyone in the area has been warned to avoid the area, with it currently cordoned off.

The Lyme Regis Coastguard said: “Large boulders have been falling from the top of the cliff and have been rolling down onto the beach and into the water.

“Consequently, the beach area immediately near the base of the slip has been closed to the public.”

SANDS QUIET

Tiny English beach named one of the UK’s most secluded

BEST BEACH

Five top beaches for families in the UK – with fairgrounds and flat sands

“We strongly advise all members of the public to stay well clear of this area.

“Do not attempt to climb the slip or walk near the base of the affected cliffs.

Fossil-hunters have also been told that the boulders are unlikely to contain any new fossils.

This is because the area is known for its historic dinosaur remains, dating back thousands of years.

And dog walkers have been urged to keep them on leads and to keep them away from the base of the cliffs.

The coastguard added: “The cliffs along the Jurassic Coast are naturally unstable and can crumble without warning.”

“Please respect the closures and signage in place for your own and others safety.

“In an emergency at the coast, call 999 and ask for the coastguard.”

Back in 2021, the cliffs saw its biggest landslide in decades after 4,000 tonnes of rock fell onto the beach.

Landslides can be triggered by a number of factors including intense rainfall in a short period of time.

Despite this, most of the Jurassic Coast is seen as still safe to visit.

One of the most famous sections is Durdle Door, home to the famous rock arch.

Often compared to both Portugal and California, it was even named one of the world’s must-see beaches by National Geographic last year.

Here’s where to find the UK’s longest seaside town, also on the Jurassic Coast.

Historic chippy on Sharrow Vale Road gained its distinctive name from locals during World War One and continues to gather large queues all these years later

Sheffield boasts one of Britain’s oldest fish and chip shops, and potentially one of the world’s, with punters regularly forming queues stretching beyond its entrance.

Established in at least 1895, the chippy on Sharrow Vale Road remains amongst the original fish and chip establishments still operating today. Two Steps amusingly earned its moniker from locals during the First World War when, as multiple fish and chip outlets appeared in the vicinity, it stood out as the one requiring ‘two steps to get in’.

The informal name swiftly became its official title, distinguishing it from rival establishments. Historical records suggest it was initially opened by a gentleman called James Boulton, appearing in the 1895 trades directory as a ‘fried fish dealer’, according to The Star.

Throughout its history, the cherished establishment has passed through various owners, with Laggy currently at the helm, having served patrons for the past two decades. Before him, the longest-serving proprietors were Nan and Graham, who dedicated 34 years working behind the historic counter.

Upon assuming control of the chippy, he sought to implement several crucial modifications, prioritising the sourcing of premium ingredients. Despite evolving fashions in the fish and chip industry, he revealed to The Star that he categorically refuses to offer the notorious battered Mars Bar.

The owner explained: “It ruins the oil, and I don’t agree with it anyway. It’s a heart attack on a plate.”

One recent visitor described their visit as nothing short of “fabulous”. The satisfied customer wrote on TripAdvisor: “I travel a few miles to get to this chip shop. It has amazing staff, and the owner is fab. Will not swap this chip shop for any other.”

Another loyal customer shared: “Have to say this place is by far the best chippy in town! I’ve been a regular visitor on Fridays for almost 20 years, and this place is often busy, with the queue stretching out the door, even in the rain. Well priced, and they don’t skimp on portions. I can rarely actually finish my tea. Good mix of all your chippy favourites.”

Following their experience at the legendary establishment, one reviewer declared it “the best fish and chips by far”. They elaborated: “Very good quality, perfectly cooked and incredibly generous portion size. All items are competitively priced, and the staff service and management attitude in resolving any issues are impeccable.”

Pinpointing Britain’s definitively oldest fish and chip shop proves tricky, with several contenders competing for the accolade. Rock and Sole Plaice in Covent Garden, London, stakes its claim as opening in 1971, making it the capital’s most venerable chippie still dishing up its time-honoured recipes.

Meanwhile, another establishment literally rebranded itself as ‘The Oldest Fish and Chip Shop in the World’ on Sandy Way in Yeadon, West Yorkshire. Yet it shuttered permanently in 2016, potentially elevating this Sheffield favourite to the position of Britain’s longest-surviving fish and chip shop still trading today.

Quaint fishing village has a picture-perfect harbour, historic cobbled streets, a gorgeous tidal pool and a lovely stretch of sandy beach – and no cars are allowed inside the village

A stunning Cornish fishing village is winning over visitors with its idyllic harbour, historic cobbled streets, delightful tidal pool and a beautiful stretch of sandy beach. The icing on the cake? Cars are not permitted within the village, creating a genuine sense of stepping back in time.

With charming cottages and compact fishermen’s houses, this Cornish treasure is a must-see. Situated on the South West Coastal Path, the main village has a modest population of around 572 residents, according to the 2021 census.

The village itself has a rich fishing history and features a traditional harbour, while a thriving artistic community adds to its allure.

Its narrow cobbled streets prohibit cars, meaning drivers must park a short distance away in the main car park or further afield in neighbouring areas, before walking or catching the bus into the village, reports Cornwall Live.

Things to do

There’s plenty to keep you occupied in the picturesque village of Polperro. This enchanting spot offers a plethora of activities for visitors, from browsing quirky local shops and museums to immersing yourself in the rich history and vibrant arts scene that infuses its many attractions.

The Polperro Harbour Heritage Museum is essential viewing, celebrating the village’s remarkable history rooted in smuggling and fishing traditions. Another gem is the Polperro Arts Foundation, a charitable organisation devoted to supporting and showcasing local talent. They run a gallery inside the Polperro Village Hall, displaying works by their community members.

During your stay, make certain to pop into the village’s beloved watering holes, The Three Pilchards and Blue Peter Inn, where you can tuck into a substantial meal with a pint or glass of wine.

Polperro’s breathtaking shoreline offers countless adventures, from taking a dip in the Victorian Chapel Rock Tidal Pool (reached by steps) to exploring rocky coastlines and hidden bays along Polperro Beach. Situated close to the harbour, it’s perfect for swimming and splashing about, especially when the tide is out.

Tourists can also take a relaxing stroll along the South West Coast Path, providing scenic routes with sweeping vistas. A treat for ramblers, this clifftop trail delivers magnificent ocean and countryside views, winding past towering cliffs, breathtaking scenery, and secret beaches along the way.

What travellers are saying

One delighted guest comments on Tripadvisor: “Unique little Cornish village with tiny passageways between quaint houses. Feels like stepping back in time. Lovely little harbour, but sadly, very few fishing vessels are still working here. Few nice shops selling handmade goods.”

One holidaymaker recently reviewed their stay, saying: “We stayed in Polperro for our Cornwall trip and it was a good choice. Quiet and some very scenic walks around. It’s like a mini Venice. Lovely little shops, galleries and the Blue Peter Inn and the Three Pilchards are bustling with good food, drink and good company. On weekends, there will be live music in the evening too. People here are lovely and laid back. “.

Another admirer of the charming fishing village shared on Tripadvisor: “Polperro is absolutely lovely …we are at the end of a week here, and are already making plans to come back. Done the coastal walks to both Looe, and to Lansallos .. stunning .. Every evening we walk down to the harbour, just to sit and take it in.”

Yet another visitor, describing it as “out of this world”, penned: “I will start by saying that Polperro itself is out of this world. It can only be described as a quaint little fishing village with a harbour that offers boat trips to nearby Looe with stunning views aplenty. You can take a walk along the cliffs and beach, and the harbour has plenty of shops, cafes and restaurants to stop in.”

Another tourist remarked about the charming village: “It’s a bit of a walk from the car park into town, but it’s well worth it when you get there, with quirky little alleyways, cute smugglers’ cottages, a working harbour offering boat trips and plenty of traditional Cornish pubs. You’ll find plenty of pubs and cafes to refuel on fresh fish dishes, Cornish pasties or cream teas, as well as lots of independent retailers. You can also take boat trips from the harbour and access the south west coast path.”

The charming village offers visitors the perfect blend of culinary delights, scenic walking trails and historic attractions

Undoubtedly the most cherished village in the Peak District – and justifiably so – this gem offers everything from local delicacies to spectacular walks and grand manor houses.

Nestled within the Peak District National Park, Bakewell draws crowds of tourists keen to discover its attractions and taste the mouth-watering treats that have made it famous. These are, of course, the iconic duo of Bakewell pudding and Bakewell tart, sold across countless bakeries in the area, with many claiming to hold the original recipe.

Establishments where you can visit and try these local treasures include The Bakewell Tart Shop and Coffee House, Fountain View Bakery, Cornish Bakery and even The Old Original Bakewell Pudding Shop. A customer, who tried the famous puddings at the original shop, said: “This establishment was a high-priority visit for us whilst we were staying in the Peak District, as my partner loves Bakewell tarts.

“We were so excited to find it and were impressed by how many items were in the store available to buy.” Beyond these delicious treats, the village proves popular as it’s perfectly positioned near countless historic buildings and walking trails. Most significantly, the spectacular Monsal Trail offers breathtaking views of a disused railway viaduct.

It’s actually the top-rated attraction in the area, based on TripAdvisor feedback. One walker who tackled the route said: “The views are just incredible with a lovely mix of scenery. You can start off at the pub and enjoy the views of the viaduct. Walk down the trail and capture the scenery of the valley from the top of the viaduct. Then follow down into the valley and wander across the trail down towards the weir.”

Additionally, visitors are drawn to explore Chatsworth House’s grounds and, of course, peek inside the splendid buildings, packed with history. The stately home features 25 rooms to explore, from striking galleries to state rooms and a beautiful ornate hall, as you uncover the history of the famous family who once lived there.

As one of Derbyshire’s finest stately homes, Chatsworth offers numerous events and activities year-round that are worth keeping an eye on, including the Chatsworth Christmas Market. One recent satisfied guest wrote: “We visited Chatsworth House to see the Christmas experience and were delighted with how magnificent this place is.”

They added: “The house is spectacular, and the Christmas decorations just added to the magic of this beautiful place. The grounds are also incredible. I wish that I had allowed more time and seen more of the garden during the day.” Bakewell, a peaceful market town situated beside the River Wye roughly 15 miles from Sheffield, stands as the biggest settlement in the National Park. Thought to have originated in Anglo-Saxon times, it’s now home to approximately 3,695 people, according to 2019 figures.

Deep in the heartland of rural Cheshire, there’s a wind-scoured ridge of sandstone that hides a two-storey cave known as Mad Allen’s Hole. Here, on the flanks of Bickerton Hill, it is said that in the 18th century a heartbroken man called John Harris of Handley lived as a hermit for several decades.

As locations to weather the storm of romantic trauma go, this – I mused as I stood above it on a crisp winter’s day – certainly takes some beating. Offering a panorama of nine counties of England and Wales from its entrance, I could spy the white disc of Jodrell Bank Observatory glistening in the sunlight, while the peaks and troughs of the Clwydian range appeared like a watermark in the distance.

I’d come here, not seeking solitude, but to meet up with Jose, an old friend I’d not seen for nine years, and to try a new walking package dreamed up by two Cheshire pubs along a prime section of the 34-mile (55km) Sandstone Trail between the villages of Tarporley and Malpas. The route follows the Sandstone Ridge, an ancient landscape of escarpments and rolling hills, rising from the Cheshire Plain.

The idea for the walk is simple: just because it’s winter doesn’t mean it has to be hard. Daylight hours are limited, the weather is less predictable, so why not stick to one 14-mile stretch, bookended with a comfy, warm room in each inn, and good food and drink – dinner on both nights and a cooked breakfast are included, as is an optional packed lunch. The pubs arrange the luggage transfer and a taxi when you finish to take you back to the start.

We met in the Swan in Tarporley – a 16th-century coaching inn, where, in front of a roaring open fire, we caught up on old times, studied the walk map and enjoyed food made from ingredients farmed practically on the doorstep. As we tucked into the cheeseboard (Tarporley blue comes highly recommended), owner Woody Barlow told us how the idea was born in the summer when they held a charity fun run between the two pubs in memory of the late owner Si Lees-Jones.

“It was so successful, we began to think – these two pubs have always been popular with walkers, cyclists and outdoor enthusiasts, especially those doing the Sandstone Trail in sections,” he said. “Many were trying to organise accommodation night by night, but we realised we could offer something much more streamlined. Plus at this time of year, the trail has a lovely stillness about it – the woods and ridgelines look magical in the winter light.”

I woke the next morning to the sound of rain on my window, but as I met Jose for breakfast – a hearty helping of eggs – the sky unexpectedly began to clear. Leaving the town, we followed country lanes, where the hedges bloomed with sloes. Acorns cracked under our boots. These nuts would once have been used for nourishing pigs before the start of medieval feasts – like those once held in Beeston Castle, the former royal fort built by the Earl of Cheshire on his return from the crusades in the 1220s, which filled the horizon.

We cut through a muddy field, making a beeline for this landmark, then followed the Sandstone Trail waymarks over the Shropshire Union Canal at Wharton’s Lock. We reached the tall red walls of rubble-filled sandstone blocks and huge wooden doors of the castle, said to house treasure from Richard II.

It was a tempting prospect, but with miles still to cover we made our way instead through the network of weaving pathways on Peckforton Hills, topped with towering red pines that give shelter from the icy wind but allow light to drop to the forest floor in dazzling spindles. Here we came across a Victorian castle folly built in the 1840s and now a hotel popular with wedding parties, but we were more taken with nature’s treasures in the form of sweet chestnuts on neighbouring Bulkeley Hill. The bark of these old trees would have once been used by passing Romans to tan leather and the nuts were essential rations for legionnaires.

We stopped here a while, enjoying our sandwiches from the pub on our first exposure to some of the tor-like sandstone that the ridge is named for, before soldiering on to our next summit – Raw Head on Bickerton Hill. At 227 metres (745ft), it’s not huge, but it is the highest point on the trail. We wandered through the forest talking about its history (its rocks were formed about 250m years ago in the Triassic period, and iron oxide has caused them to become banded in hues of red, terracotta and ochre, which cement the sand together) and our own past lives, discussing friends we once shared.

As the sun hung ever lower in the sky, we still had some climbing to do on Bickerton Hill, home to the hermit’s cave. The area is replete with lowland heath, once used for grazing, thatching, and foraging. Bilberries still grow there.

We traced the edges of Maiden Castle – the remains of an iron age hill fort built between 500 and 600BC and still occupied when the Romans arrived in Britain – before descending to country lanes, where someone had kindly left a wheelbarrow of apples for hikers.

The light emanating from the windows of the 300-year-old Lion pub welcomed us to our big finish nearly as warmly as the staff, who were suitably impressed with the distance we’d walked, making us feel like we’d had a proper adventure.

Before we retired to bed we raised a glass – to the views, the hearty food and, of course, to heartbroken John Harris – in short, to our perfect winter walk. We promised not to leave it another nine years before we walked together again.

The trip was provided by The Swan in Tarporley and The Lion in Malpas, with travel from visitengland.com. The Walk, Dine & Unwind on Cheshire’s Sandstone Trail package is from £199pp, including dinner, B&B at both inns, luggage transfer, one packed lunch and a taxi back to start, plus one dog stays free

The city, just 65km from Porto, combines UNESCO World Heritage sites with Michelin-starred dining and budget-friendly meals from £4

A beautiful medieval city packed with great things to do has been tipped as a must-visit destination for 2026.

Guimarães is, according to a ranking of the top 20 travel spots this year, “astonishingly under the radar”, given its long history and the relative ease of getting there from the UK.

Sat just 65km inland from Porto, the Portugese city is considered the 12th-century birthplace of Portugal and its first capital. Norman Miller, who wrote about Guimarães for the BBC ranking, praised its “beautifully preserved medieval core is a tangle of cobbled squares and lanes dotted with grand palaces and terraced restaurants”. Among the warren you will find all sorts of excellent places to eat, including Michelin-starred spots, laid-back eateries and craft beer bars.

If you’re after a great but affordable place for a bite to eat, O Petisko is one of the cheapest lunch options in town, with meals starting from £4, it is known for its daily set lunch of soup, main and a drink.

READ MORE: Italy’s first five-star campsite turns Venice into a family-friendly dreamREAD MORE: Great British Rail Sale 2026 launches with up to 50% off train tickets and deals from £10

The Taberna Trovador is a touch more expensive but delivers classic taverna vibes, tapas and small plates right in the city centre.

In terms of significant monuments, history enthusiasts will love the Palace of the Dukes of Bragança, is a magnificent example of seventeenth-century seigneurial architecture and the birthplace of the House of Bragança. It has been classified a National Monument since 1910.

Whether or not the attraction’s claim that “Portugal was born” in the Palace is true, it’s fair to say that Guimarães is not a city that is stuck in the past.

As one of Portugal’s oldest university towns it has a vibrant energy. Almost half of its population is younger than 30. Large stretches of the city were freshened up for its 2012 European Capital of Culture title. Most bars are clustered around Praça de São Tiago and Largo da Oliveira, the heart of the old town. There’s plenty to choose from when it comes to bars and clubs, including the Púrpura – vibrant university bar and the Madeira-themed Poncha cocktail bar.

The coming year is a big one for the city. It is celebrating both 25 years of UNESCO World Heritage status and its new title as Europe’s Green Capital – recognition of two decades of sustainability work embedded across the city.

If you walk through the city today you will find creatively repurposed heritage buildings or restored riverbanks. A fleet of electric buses are on hand to whisk you from location to location.

“It’s a forward-thinking, quietly confident city – and one of Europe’s most compelling surprises for 2026,” the BBC writes.

If you’re keen to swap the chilly UK for a spot of sunshine, then Guimarães delivers that and plenty of fresh air. According to the European Commission, 97% of its residents enjoy ‘good’ or ‘very good’ air.

“Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2001 for its well-preserved historic centre, Guimarães has since earned several prestigious titles: European Capital of Culture in 2012, European City of Sport in 2013 and the most sustainable municipality in Portugal for three consecutive years. These remarkable achievements underscore the city’s innovative spirit and dedication to progress, despite its relatively modest population of 156,830 residents. Guimarães has embraced sustainability as a cornerstone of its local culture. Innovative businesses are increasingly aligning with the city’s environmentally conscious policies, fostering a new industrial culture and enhancing its ecosystem of innovation,” the Commission reported.

While there are no direct flights from UK airports to Guimarães, travel hubs including London Heathrow, London Gatwick, Manchester, Birmingham and Bristol offer budget fares to nearby Porto.

Direct coaches run from Porto Airport to Guimarães, taking about 40–50 minutes. Operators such as FlixBus and local services offer regular departures and tickets from around €5 (about £4–£6). If you prefer rail, you can take a bus or taxi into Porto city centre and then catch a train to Guimarães from Porto’s São Bento or Campanhã stations. The train journey from Porto to Guimarães takes about 60 minutes.

GOT the January blues? That’s nothing a cosy cottage can’t fix.

And if you book right now, you can bag a top bargain, as UK holiday sites are slashing their prices for not just January, but the rest of the year too.

Here, Sophie Swietochowski shares her best deals for staycation rentals, from country homes close to pubs with roaring fireplaces to timber-beamed properties with rural walks right on your doorstep.

FLORENCE SPRINGS LAKESIDE LODGES, Tenby

HOSEASONS currently has up to 30 per cent off on more than 50,000 breaks, including dates in the summer.

Those on a budget will be spoilt for choice, with more than 130,000 properties available for under £250 per break.

Each of the sleek lodges comes with a modern kitchen/living room complete with fireplace and overlooks a grand lake, bordered by reeds that attract wildlife.

WAIL OF A TIME

I drove Irish Route 66 with deserted golden beaches and pirate-like islands

TEMPTED?

Tiny ‘Bali of Europe’ town with stunning beaches, €3 cocktails and £20 flights

The site even has three friendly alpacas.

Private verandas are kitted out with hot tubs – perfect for cosy nights in.

GO: A seven-night self-catered stay, sleeping up to four guests, is £399, down from £509.

See hoseasons.co.uk.

WEAVER’S COTTAGE Yorkshire Dales

AVID ramblers should look no further than Weaver’s Cottage, a small but charming holiday home right on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales.

Right now, you can bag 30 per cent off all stays booked before February 2, with up to £300 off the total on cottages.com.

Split across three levels and with a cosy log burner, the two-bedroom property is ideal for hunkering down during winter, while the enclosed garden’s furniture is perfect for soaking up the sun in summer.

On top of scenic walking trails, there’s horse riding and great fishing sites nearby.

GO: Seven nights’ self-catering is from £465, reduced from £705, sleeping up to four.

See cottages.com.

BARLEY COTTAGE Axminster, Devon

LOOKING to whizz off straight away?

Sykes Cottages has some corking deals for January, with almost £500 off some properties.

The South West is gorgeous at this time of year, with fewer crowds and more space to roam.

Check into the six-person Barley Cottage in Axminster, a 15-minute drive from the coast.

The home features three snug bedrooms and an outdoor barbecue hut with a firepit that will keep you toasty throughout the winter nights.

If you don’t fancy cooking, there are several pubs just over a mile away, including the Castle Inn, which has weekly deals such as a burger, chips and a drink for a tenner or curry night which will set you back £12.99.

GO: Seven nights’ self-catering is from £824, reduced from £909, for arrival on January 16.

See sykescottages.co.uk.

ROBIN COTTAGE Bourton-on-the-water, Cotswolds

FEWER UK spots say cosy staycation quite like the Cotswolds.

Luckily for you, Cotswold Cottages is slashing the price of all 2026 stays by 20 per cent, with dates available in the school holidays too.

Just make sure you book by January 31.

Robin Cottage is tucked away in the rural village of Bourton-on-the-Water, which straddles the River Windrush.

It has exposed brick walls, an open fire and great views of the water.

It’s well suited to couples, with just one bedroom, and the delights of the village are all within walking distance, including the Cotswolds Motoring Museum, where you can delve into the history of 20th-century vehicles.

GO: Three nights’ self-catering is from £442.55, down from £590.

See boundless.co.uk.

ASHLEA POOL LODGES Craven Arms, Shropshire

FOR those wanting to reconnect with nature, Ashlea Pool Lodges has it all.

Buried in the rolling hills of Shropshire, this Hoseasons site has lodges overlooking a tranquil lake, thick woodland for roaming and wildlife in every direction you turn.

The activities are abundant, too, with walking trails, cycling routes and fishing spots all nearby.

The holiday park is included in Hoseasons 30-per-cent-off deal, so you can bag yourself a decent price as long as you book before February 2.

Each of the lodges blends seamlessly with its surroundings, thanks to wooden panelling on the walls and floor-to-ceiling windows looking out over leafy trees.

There’s an onsite cafe selling homemade scones, tempting cakes and creamy milkshakes, as well as a pizzeria.

GO: Seven nights’ self-catering in a six-person lodge is from £399, down from £499.

See hoseasons.co.uk.

WHETHER you fancy a 2026 staycation or holiday across to Europe or further afield, we’ve got some incredible experience for you to consider.

We’ve been all over the world and have taken note of our favourite things to do, from guided tours to free hikes, getting our hands dirty at cooking classes or doing some daredevil stunts.

Secret Food Tour, UK

Assistant Travel Editor Sophie Swietochowski said: “Exploring a city for the first time? Getting a flavour of the food scene is a priority for me whenever and wherever I travel. And a Secret Food Tour is just the way to do that.

“The several-hour experiences are bookable in over 70 major cities globally, and thanks to a knowledgeable local guide you’ll get a strong idea of where’s good to eat and which joints are tourist traps.

“I’ve been on several of these tours, but was most blown away by the Soho one in London, naively assuming I’d learn nothing new. How wrong I was.

“Did you know that Berwick Street market was the first place in London to sell tomatoes on the street? Or that Ronnie Scott’s jazz club is where Jimi Hendrix played his last ever gig in 1970?

SUMMER IS GO

The 40 kid-friendly & free activities for EVERY day of the school holidays

happy days

Money-saving mums show how they spend under £10 on days out in top UK cities

“Of course there’s food, too. LOTS of it.“

You can enjoy six to seven food stops, including one ‘secret stop from £79pp in the UK. See secretfoodtours.com.

Walking Tour, Italy

Travel Reporter Cyann Fielding added: “Sardinia has been named several times as a top destination to visit this year and with that in mind one great thing to do on the Italian island is head on the Underground Cagliari Walking Tour.

“The tour takes between two and four hours and across that time you will explore three different underground sites. The sites include a limestone tunnel used by priests, a crypt and even underground Roman ruins.”

The tour costs from £26 per person with GetYourGuide.com.

Wine Tour, UK

Deputy Travel Editor Kara Godfrey said: “The UK wine is having a moment, even beating those in France – so why not go on a tour of some of the best vineyards in the country? 

“Wine Tours of Kent takes you around two vineyards in the ‘Garden of England‘ and it includes vineyard tours, wine tastings, as well as lunch, with prices starting from

“I recommend pacing yourself, as I ended up buying perhaps too many bottles of the stuff, easily tempted after a glass of wine or two.

“Don’t worry about having to drive yourself home – you are even dropped at the train station at the end.”

Wine Tour of Kent starts from £129pp. See winetoursofkent.co.uk

Paragliding, Turkey

Deputy Travel Editor Kara Godfrey revealed: “What’s one of the best ways to see the beach resort of Fethiye? By the air.

“There are a number of paragliding experiences in Turkey, but the best ones are in Oludeniz.

“It’s certainly nerve-wracking to start – once attached to your guide, you have to throw yourself off the cliff edge like a lemming.

“But it’s worth it for the views alone, floating suspended in the sky with the gold sand beaches below… and even a few turtles swimming in the bright blue waters.”

Oludeniz Paragliding Fethiye Turkey from £90pp. See viator.com

Montmorency Falls Park Zip Line, Canada

Travel Reporter Cyann Fielding suggested something more thrilling, she said: “If you are a dare devil or adrenaline junkie then you must head to Montmorency Falls Park in Quebec, Canada.

“Here you will find a waterfall that is higher than Niagara Falls and you can zip line across it.

“The experience is both thrilling and mesmerising as you get to fly past the cascading water and see it from a different angle.

“Afterwards, you even get a video of your zip across the waterfall.”

Tickets cost £17.25 per person see sépaq.com for more.

Whiskey Tour, Ireland

Travel Writer Jenna Stevens recommends a whiskey tour when you head to this specific destination. She said: “Any trip to Northern Ireland is incomplete without a whiskey tour and tasting.

“Located in the old Victorian Crumlin Road Gaol, McConnell’s blends history, culture and deliciously distilled drinks all in one place.

“The tour starts with a history lesson on Irish whiskey and learning all about ‘Mother McConnell’, the widow who took over the McConnell business and made the drink what it is today.

“Next comes a true insight into the world of whiskey making, as you walk through the entire process – from grain to glass.

“After learning everything there is to know about Irish whiskey, you’ll be ready to taste some. Luckily with this experience, you get treated to three drams to enjoy in a group tasting.

The McConnell’s distillery experience, including a guided tour and three tastings, is £23pp. See mcconnellsirishwhisky.com.

Dolphin and Whale-Watching Boat Trip, Tenerife

Deputy Travel Editor Kara Godfrey said: “The Spanish island of Tenerife is known for its dolphin and whale-watching tours, thanks to its huge conservation drive.

“During my trip, I was lucky to see huge pods of dolphins swim right alongside the boat, playing with the sides.

“While shyer, we also spotted whales in the distance, with it being one of the few locations outside of the US and Japan where they can be seen.

“The trip even includes time for a dip in the water, as well as drinks and snacks.

Dolphin watching tours from £40pp. See whitetenerife.com

Victoria Tunnel Tour, UK

Travel Reporter Cyann Fielding says head underground: “Here in the UK, head on the Victoria Tunnel tour in Newcastle.

“The former Victorian wagonway was used to carry coal for the Tyne before it was later used as a shelter during bombings in World War II.

“There are two different tour types, either an hour and 15 minutes or two hours – opt for the latter for the full experience with an informative guide.

The tour costs from £7 per child and £14 per adult. See ouseburntrust.org.uk for more.

Pasta Making, Italy

Travel Writer Jenna Stevens explained: “If there’s anywhere to learn to make some great pasta, it’s in Italy’s capital.

“I came across this cooking class when browsing GetYourGuide for activities in Rome, and decided to try my hand at making some fettuccine.

“The class takes place in the main square of Piazza Navona, right in the heart of the city – perfect to drop into after a day of wandering the city centre.

“Here, you’ll meet strangers from all over the world, and together you’ll get stuck into mixing dough, sprinkling flour and rolling out sheets of fresh pasta.

“After you’ve made something that resembles fettuccine, pick between a range of Italian sauces, sit down with an (included) glass of wine, and let the chefs take care of the rest.

“Soon enough you’ll be served a plate of hot fresh pasta, with your nametag neatly stuck to the plate, so you know you’ve got the real deal.

“Eating something you’ve made yourself is a super rewarding feeling, and those fresh Italian ingredients make the dish taste extra special.”

Book a pasta cooking class in Rome on GetYourGuide for £35 per person.

Top of the Rock Observation Deck, New York

Travel Reporter Cyann Fielding said: “When visiting New York in America, people tend to beeline for the Empire State Building to see the city’s skyline.

“Though, the Empire State Building is an iconic part of the skyline itself and if you are inside it, you can’t see it.

“That’s what makes going to the top of the Rockefeller Center better – you see the entire skyline and can also enjoy access to The Beam Experience which feels like having lunch above the skyscraper.

Tickets cost £31.27 per adult and £26.80 per child see rockefellercenter.com for more.

TV Tours, UK

Travel Reporter Alice Penwill said: “If you’re a fan of soaps, then I’d recommend taking a tour of the Emmerdale village.

“Up in Leeds, you can a guided tour around the chocolate-box village which incredibly looks exactly like it does on TV.

“You can take Instagram-worthy pictures outside David’s Shop, Café Main Street, and the village church, which has seen many wedding disasters.

“Then of course there’s the iconic Woolpack pub which has picnic tables outside so you can have a relaxing sit down during the summer.

“Equally, I visited in November, and the village is beautiful when it’s covered in glittery frost.

“If you pay a little extra, then a cast member will make an appearance too.”

The Emmerdale Village tour starts from £40pp. See emmerdalevillagetour.co.uk.

Alcatraz, San Francisco

Travel Reporter Cyann Fielding said: “San Francisco is home to one of the most famous prisons in the world – Alcatraz.

“No longer operational, travellers can head to the prison island that inspired the Azkaban prison in Harry Potter and tour the buildings and grounds.

“To visit the prison, you have to head on a boat to the island from Pier 33, which is operated by Alcatraz City Cruises.

“Once on the island, there are regular boat trips back to the mainland.

It costs from £34.24 per person with cityexperiences.com.

Sidecar City Tour, Singapore

Deputy Travel Editor Kara Godfrey advises you to take to the roads, she said: “If you love a city tour and a vintage car, then a Side Car Tour of Singapore is the best.

“Book one for the middle of the week and enjoy much emptier roads as you whizz though the financial and art districts.

“Clad in a stylish helmet, my driver was both speedy and hilarious as we explored the street art and building history along the way.

“There are different themes, from night tour to Crazy Rich Asian tours, but I highly recommend the Singapore in a Nutshell.”

Singapore Sidecar Tours from £119pp. See sidecar.sg

Race Across the World, UK

Travel Reporter Alice Penwill recommended getting competitive with a game, she said: “You don’t need to literally Race Across the World for thrills as there’s an experience right here in the UK.

“With the interactive game you can run across the city of London, the West End or Manchester solving puzzles and hunting for clues, and it is competitive as you’re up against the clock.

“It’s a great day out with friends or family, and you get to take little breaks for refuelling along the way too.”

Tickets start from £50 (for two adults racing). For details, head to raceacrosstheworldexperience.com.

Hike to the Hollywood Sign and Griffith Observatory, Los Angeles

Travel Reporter Cyann Fielding can’t get enough to the US – and luckily, you don’t have to pay for everything. She suggested: “Los Angeles is expensive enough as it is, but there is an incredible, bucket list activity you can do for completely free – hiking to the Griffith Observatory and seeing the Hollywood Sign.

“The Ferndell to Observatory Loop isn’t for the fainthearted stretching 2.6 miles but you get to head through woodland before reaching the observatory.

“On the way down from the observatory, make sure to head via Glendower Avenue to see Frank Lloyd Wright’s Ennis House and into Feliz, where there is a number of independent shops and restaurants including Skylight Books.”

Vatican and Sistine Chapel Tour, Italy

Assistant Travel Editor Sophie Swietochowski suggested taking a tour of one well-known site, she said: “The famous Vatican City, sat within the Italian capital, is one of the most historically significant sites in not just Rome, but the entire world, and it’s still considered the heart and headquarters of Catholicism today.

“It’s also now one of the most overcrowded sites you could visit. That’s why a guided tour with queue jump, that lets you avoid those daily snaking lines, is the only way to do it.

“Even with queue-jump you’ll still have to wait a short while, but once you’re in your very knowledgeable guide will whisk you off to all the must-see places, pointing out the top photo spots as you go.

“Plus, you’ll learn things that the standard visitor won’t.”

A two-hour Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel tour costs from £53pp. See getyourguide.co.uk.

Hike to Arthur’s Seat, Scotland

Travel Reporter Cyann Fielding has top tips for anyone doing a staycation, she said: “Edinburgh is a fantastic city to visit, especially if you want a holiday but don’t want to leave the UK.

“And for those who like to keep active, head for hike up Arthur’s Seat – a dormant volcano with breathtaking views across the Scottish capital and the sea.

“What is even better is that it is free to hike – just note it isn’t for the fainthearted.”

Cooking Class, Thailand

Travel Reporter Alice Penwill cooked up a storm on a recent trip to Koh Samui, she said: “What’s one of the best things about going to Thailand? It has to be the food. From delicious curries to stir fry and of course, mango sticky rice.

“While I’m not a natural in the kitchen, Chef Lat made it very easy and soon had me chopping lemongrass and frying prawns.

“My new favourite, though is a massaman chicken curry. You eat everything you make, too.“

Book the Thai Cooking Class Farm to Table with Expedia for $82pp (£60.89). See expedia.com for more.

Traitors: The Live Experience, UK

Travel Reporter Cyann Fielding loved her experience as a Faithful, she said: “The new series of Traitors graced our screens last week and what could be a more perfect excuse to try out the live experience?

“Located in London, the Traitors live experience allows fans to actually play the game – albeit in a very shortened version.

“You get a host as well as gain an insight into what it actually feels like to be a Faithful… or perhaps, a Traitor.”

The experience costs from £39.50 for off-peak dates and time slots. https://www.thetraitorslive.co.uk/ticket-info

Dune Hiking Sunset Tour, Egypt

Deputy Travel Editor Kara Godfrey added: “If you want to feel like you’re on Mars without the 10-month journey, then desert hiking in Egypt is the next best thing.

“Just outside El Gouna, the drive into Wadi Bileh makes you feel like you are the only person on the planet.

“The sandy walk is best done barefoot, and head to the top to see towering dunes of red sand.

“It ends with a Bedouin bonfire and coffee when the sun goes down, making it a true, other-worldly experience.”

Wadi Bileh Sunset Experience from £47pp. See elgounamountaingoats.org

Go Ape, UK

Head of Sun Travel (Digital) Caroline McGuire said: “Go Ape has taken over the UK with treetop rope courses in more than 30 inner-city and countryside locations.

“It also happens to be at some of the country’s top tourist attractions, like Leeds Castle, Bedgebury Pinetum and in Battersea Park, a stone’s throw from Battersea Power Station.

“The latter is where I took my five year old, during a day out at the power station, which has its own cinema, Lego store and holds special family events during school holidays.

“It was a brilliant experience as a bolt-on to a city day out, where my son was able to blow off steam and get plenty of fresh air, among the more cultural activities of the day.

“Yes, it’s not cheap, but the infrastructure, thought and care that has gone into these courses is not cheap. And there wasn’t a miserable child or adult among those I encountered on our afternoon in the trees.

“Go Ape has inspired several copycats, both here and abroad, but few work so cleverly with nature, which is what makes this experience, particularly in central London’s Battersea, so unique.”

Tickets start from £20.95pp. For more see goape.co.uk.

Mountain Coaster, Switzerland

Travel Writer Jenna Stevens has one of these activities on her own 2026 bucket list: “Switzerland is home to some of the world’s most beautiful landscapes. And what better way to see them than whizzing down a 1350m-long toboggan ride?

“The Fräkigaudi toboggan run in Hergiswil is the longest alpine coaster in Switzerland, and bends around vivid green mountain valleys.

“It’s a thrilling ride full of surprise twists, turns, and drops into “dragon holes”.

“You’re able to control the speed at which you ride, so whether you’re visiting for full-on adrenaline or a leisurely sightseeing slide, the choice is entirely up to you.

“At the top station there’s seating and a snack bar, and at the bottom a lift to transport you back up to the top to do it all over again. The toboggan run operates in the summer months from 10-4pm.”

Tickets cost 9 CHF (£8.41) for adults, 7 CHF (£6.54) for ages 8-16 and 5 CHF (£4.67) for ages 6-7. See rodelbahn.ch for more.

Boat Tour around the Sirmione Peninsula, Italy

Travel Reporter Cyann Fielding added: “If you’re visiting Lake Garda in Italy this year, make sure to head to Sirmione – a picturesque town located on a narrow peninsula.

“The town is famous for its Roman ruins, medieval Scaligero Castle and thermal baths. But to catch the most spectacular experience of the town and Lake Garda, head on a boat tour.

“There are several from the town, but make sure to head off on one that explores Villa Maria Callas, Aquaria Thermal Baths, Catullus Grottoes, Giamaica Beach, Boiola Sulphur Spring and the partially-submerged Sirmione Castle.”

A boat tour that includes the above locations costs from £26.60 per person, but shorter 25-minute tours cost from £8.68 per person.

Hot Air Ballooning, Morocco

For incredible views, Deputy Travel Editor Kara Godfrey says head up to the skies, she said: “One of Morocco’s most beautiful landscapes is the Atlas Mountains, and hot air balloon rides are one of the best ways to see them.

“Arriving in pitch black, I waited in darkness apart from the flame of the balloon, before piling into the basket and floating up to wait.

“There are few things as magical as seeing the sun peek over the mountains, with hues of red and pink.

“Most experiences come with a Berber breakfast afterwards too, so make the most of the breads and mint tea.”

Hot Air Balloon Flight over Marrakech from £74. See viator.com

Musée d’Orsay, France

Travel Reporter Alice Penwill said: “If you’re in Paris and looking for something to do, head inside the Musée d’Orsay and for a very informative experience, take a guided tour.

“Inside are lots of huge sculptures like ‘The Gates of Hell’ and beautiful pieces of art by the likes of Renoir and Monet.

“It also houses Van Gogh pieces like Starry Night Over the Rhône, and his Self-Portrait.

“The building itself is incredible too as it used to be a train station, it has a giant golden clock and beautiful views of Paris from the fifth floor.

“The gallery sits on the bank of the River Seine too so afterwards, you can take a stroll along the water all the way down to Notre Dame.”

Guided tours are €26 (£22.56) which include the tour, admission and activity. See musee-orsay.fr/en.

Paddleboarding, UK

When it comes to summertime, Travel Writer Jenna Stevens said to head to her home county: “It’s hard to pick between the beautiful beaches to explore in North Norfolk.

“Whilst Cromer is popular for crabbing and cool cafes, Wells-next-the-Sea is famous for its postcard-perfect beach huts. But the best way by far to explore any of these beaches is by paddleboard.

“Whether you pick up a cheap blow-up paddleboard from Lidl, or borrow one from the many rental shops along the coast, you should make paddleboarding your new best friend in 2026.

“I recommend heading to the marshes of Brancaster or Burnham Overy Staithe for gorgeous golden sunsets and still, quiet waters.

“These grassy areas are way quieter than their nearby sandy beaches, and if you time your visit just right you might even be able to pick some fresh samphire from the marshland to take home for dinner.

“And whether you choose to paddle out to the horizon, try out SUP yoga, or simply lay down and soak in the views – it’s an activity everyone falls in love with.

“You can grab a cheap paddleboard from Amazon for £89.99, or rent one for just £20 per hour at Brancaster Boards.”

Thriller Speedboat Adventures, Miami

Travel Report Cyann Fielding said: “The glamorous city of Miami is always in the headlines for the amount of celebs who live there or visit – but on dry land you can’t get a taste of what exactly their lifestyles look like.

“The Thriller Speedboat Adventure ride takes you directly past the houses of the rich including Oprah Winfrey and Will Smith.

“The boat itself is open-topped so you get to enjoy the heat and breeze of Miami too.

“The host is equally funny as they are informative, giving you a real glimpse into some of the luxury and scandal of the lives of the city’s residents.”

The experience costs £33.45 per person. https://www.thrillermiami.com/

Niagara Falls, New York

Travel Reporter Alice Penwill added: “If you’re heading to the US this year, there’s no way you can miss a trip to Niagara Falls in Upstate New York.

“Take the trails through the park, wander at your leisure at no cost as entering Niagara Falls State Park is completely free too so there are no fees necessary to see the impressive falls.

“If you want to get up close to the falls, either take a Maid of the Mist Boat across the waters, or walk The Cave of the Winds which takes you as close to the water as possible – and make sure to bring your waterproof for Hurricane Deck.”

Tickets for Maid of the Mist Boat Tours are $30.25 (£22.48) see maidofthemist.com. To walk the Cave of the Winds costs $14 (£10.40) see niagarafallsstatepark.com.

Sigulda, Latvia

If you’re seeking adventure, head to this town recommended by Deputy Travel Editor, Kara Godfrey: “While most people head to Riga on a trip to Latvia, the town of Sigulda is the one for adventure lovers.

“I spent the idea day exploring, trying out every activity on offer for a day of adrenaline.

“There is the indoor go-karting rink Klikk, where I bounded off the tyre walls at speed, to hoping on the cable car before a zipline through the forest.

“Yachting, skydiving and bungee jumping are all on offer too, if you want ore of a thrill.”

Activities from £13pp, see siguldaadventures.com.

Fossil Hunting, UK

Travel Reporter Cyann Fielding added: “Kid’s love dinosaurs and right here in the UK we have some great spots to go hunting for millions-of-years old fossils.

“The best spot? Definitely Dorset’s Jurassic Coast. Head to Charmouth Beach and Lyme Regis both of which are known as great fossil-finding spots with species including ammonites (which are the popular spiral shell-shaped fossils) and belemnites (the ones that look like bullets).

“Just check rules of the specific place you plan to head to beforehand, as some spots don’t allow you to chisel into the rocks.”

For more activities, here are the English counties with the most free family activities from pony sanctuaries and steam railways to soft plays.

And here are the 20 most-visited attractions in England that are completely free to enter.

Our writer Ben Whisson visited Haven’s Devon Cliffs Holiday Park in November and discovered that off-season breaks offer brilliant family fun

As I embarked on a three-night getaway to Haven’s Devon Cliffs site in November, I was slightly apprehensive about what an off-season UK holiday park might have in store. However, as my wife, young son and I pulled up to the park’s entrance, any worries were quickly laid to rest.

Upon check-in, we navigated through the expansive grounds to find our lodge, which would serve as our base for a weekend packed with thrilling activities and lively entertainment.

READ MORE: Where to go on holiday in 2026 – from surprising EU foodie hotspot to ‘cheaper Cotswolds’

READ MORE: Beautiful European holiday destination three hours from UK and still 17ºC in December

What to do at a Haven Holiday Park

The handy Haven app allowed us to manage our booking and plan activities before even setting foot in the park. Despite visiting during the quieter season, there was no shortage of things to do – from a ‘Make A Bear’ party and an Aerial Adventure to their Football Fun Factory and Ranger Activities.

With a mix of complimentary and paid activities, there’s truly something for everyone. Moreover, a Haven PlayPass grants you 14 sessions at the site’s indoor pool throughout your stay, reports OK!. We specifically chose this site for its swimming facilities, and it certainly didn’t disappoint.

Entertainment at Haven Devon Cliffs Holiday Park

Given the timing of our visit, I expected the entertainment offerings to be somewhat limited – but I couldn’t have been more mistaken. The park boasted two entertainment venues, each offering a plethora of options from morning till night. With full-scale pantomimes, karaoke, and a host of fun and games for both children and adults, I was thoroughly impressed by the variety on offer.

The entertainment team were the absolute highlight of the park – and our holiday. This gifted bunch put on fantastic shows, interacted with the kiddies and made it a memorable trip for us and numerous other families.

Food and drink at Haven Devon Cliffs Holiday Park

Our caravan was well kitted out for whipping up home-cooked meals (which we did) – but we also had the opportunity to try the broad range of food options at the park. With Slim Chickens, Chopstix and Papa Johns among the outlets on site, we were spoilt for choice. The entertainment venues boast bars, plus there’s a sports bar and even a Wetherspoons.

Accommodation at Haven Devon Cliffs Holiday Park

We lodged in a spotless Emerald grade lodge, which was beautifully presented, featuring two bedrooms, two bathrooms and a cosy lounge/kitchen area. It had parking for two cars and was just a short stroll from the centre of activity on the site. The icing on the cake was the outdoor decking that encircled the lodge, which – during the fleeting moments of sunshine – allowed us to fully appreciate the view of the Devon coast.

With a beach accessible from the park, a snug lodge and everything you could need for an action-packed break – whenever you decide to visit – Haven’s Devon Cliffs park surpassed our expectations. Despite a typically rainy November weekend, the multi-skilled entertainment team and staff brought the sunshine for us and our little lad – and we’ll definitely be returning for more.

How much does it cost to stay at Haven Devon Cliffs Holiday Park?

Four-night breaks off-peak in March and April at Haven Devon Cliffs Holiday Park start from £99 staying in a Saver grade caravan. The park reopens in March 2026.

For alternative caravan holidays, have a look at Parkdean Resorts and Hoseasons.

The travel expert has championed the budget-friendly Portuguese coastal town as one of his top getaway picks

Travel guru Simon Calder has hailed Cascais, nestled close to Lisbon in Portugal, as one of his favourite holiday destinations. This wallet-friendly resort is especially attractive during chillier periods, with direct flights available from UK airports to nearby Lisbon, while enjoying mild average highs of 15°C in January, reports the Express.

The picturesque town’s manageable size makes it perfect for pensioners seeking a destination that’s easy to explore by foot.

Travel blogger and photographer Caroline wrote on her site Packthesuitcases that Cascais “is a nice walkable size, you don’t need to worry about taxis and buses unless you’re venturing further afield to things like Cabo da Roca – everything in the town itself is easily reached on foot”.

Caroline emphasised that getting to Cascais from Lisbon by train is hassle-free.

“The train takes about 40 minutes from Cais do Sodré, and it’s an enjoyable journey along the coast,” she explained.

On his travel podcast, Simon Calder praised the beautiful resort as one of his “favourite Portuguese locations”.

“Cascais is the port planted elegantly on the shoreline west of the capital, Lisbon, on what’s known as the Portuguese Riviera.

“It was settled in turn by Romans, Visigoths and Moors, and today the centre of Cascais is an intriguing combination of sun-worn houses, cafés, shops and smart hotels.”

The travel expert also highlighted that “excellent beaches within easy reach of Cascais” make it an attractive proposition.

One delighted holidaymaker shared their experience on TripAdvisor, describing the Portuguese town as “a little slice of heaven”.

They gushed: “Cascais is amazing, beautiful coastline, stunning, immaculate beaches and a really charming town. The people are lovely, and the food is out of this world!”

Simon also recommended Cassis in the south of France as another walkable gem, perfect for those seeking a winter escape.

Travel can affect our lives in many positive ways – and some holidays really can be life-changing. We’d love to hear about trips that have changed you – perhaps it was a wellbeing retreat, a learning or yoga holiday, going fishing or sailing for the first time, or a long-distance hike or kayaking adventure, in the UK and Europe. Tell us what you did and why it was so special.

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

Keep your tip to about 100 words

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

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

The competition closes on Monday 12 January 2026 at 10am GMT

Have a look at our past winners and other tips

Read the terms and conditions here

Share your travel tip using the form below.

Please share your story if you are 18 or over, anonymously if you wish. For more information please see our terms of service and privacy policy.

If you’re having trouble using the form click here. Read terms of service here and privacy policy here.