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THERE’S bad news for Brits heading abroad this summer as Ryanair CEO Michael O’Leary has predicted flight cancellations and delays.

Due to strikes and ongoing staffing issues there are particular months which could face the most disruption.

In an interview with The Independent, Michael O’Leary has predicted this summer will be a “mess” when it comes to flights due to possible air traffic control strikes.

Mr O’Leary said: “The French will start striking around May or June and then air traffic controllers will start not showing up to work on Saturdays and Sundays during the summer schedule.

“And we’ll end up with these mythical ATC capacity restrictions, they’re not capacity restriction, they’re ATC staff shortages.”

He continued to say that he believes the European Union should be “fining” air traffic control providers if “they’re not fully staffed for the wave of morning flights”.

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Mr O’Leary added that this would be useful for getting flights away on time on weekend during the summer.

He said that “if you get the first wave away, the rest of the day will operate pretty much on time”.

French air traffic control went on strike last year from July 3-4, 2025 which caused widespread delays.

According to Skycop.com, the summer strike resulted in over a thousand flights cancelled, over three thousand flights delayed – and it affected more than 1 million passengers.

Just a few weeks ago on January 9, 2026, there was another nationwide strike by French air traffic controllers which led to the cancellation of 933 flights.

The striking of air traffic control staff doesn’t just affect travellers heading directly in or out of France.

The location of France means that any air traffic strike will affect lots of other routes.

According to Eurocontrol, more than 60 per cent of flights in Western Europe either take off, land in, or pass over France.

Without an adequate number of staff, extensive sections of airspace are made unavailable to planes.

Last year, Ryanair axed 25 routes to France during the winter months, including those to Bergerac, Brive, and Strasbourg.

There could be more cuts on the horizon too as airline’s chief commercial officer, Jason McGuinness said: “Ryanair will leave French regional airports in the summer of 2026.”

No official details have been released yet about which additional regional airports will be impacted.

For more on Ryanair flights, it’s set to restart flights to one European city despite scrapping them just months ago.

And this European airport is set to welcome Ryanair flights this summer – despite axing routes from the UK.

AS SNOW turns to rain, the UK is once again experiencing a wet and windy spell, so what better place to head to with the kids than soft play?

Across the UK there are lots of indoor attractions featuring playgrounds and soft play.

They make the ideal wet day out as often, they include features for both younger and older children.

And pretty much every single one has that all important cafe for onlooking parents…

Woodlands Family Theme Park, Devon

Home to Devon‘s largest soft play, Woodlands theme park is a great spot for miserable weather.

Inside, visitors will find drop slides, ball pools, climbing tubes and obstacles.

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The area is for children over 90cm tall.

Then there is also the Ice Palace, which is split into two sections – one for toddlers under 95cm and one for children up to 125cm.

In the Circus Drome Zone at Woodlands there is even more soft play with the Big Top Soft Play where there are stacking cubes, soft play blocks and interactive puzzlers for kids under 110cm.

In this zone there is a Circus Bouncy Castle too and the Acrobats Challenge with nets, rope swings, ball pools and slides for kids between 90cm and 140cm.

And finally, in the Toddler’s Village Zone, there is a Mermaids Ball Pool with slides.

An adult or child under 92cm costs £16.50 to enter and children under 92cm tall are free.

Play Factore, Manchester

Play Factore in Manchester claims to be the biggest indoor family entertainment arena in the UK.

Inside, visitors can head on the tallest standing indoor slide in the UK as well as head to a laser tag arena.

Kids can enjoy a bounce on the interactive ValoJump trampolines too and a zip wire.

In the Toddler Area, there are two floors of play designed for kids under the age of five.

It is safety gated as well so no running off moments occur.

Inside the Toddler Zone, there are tunnels, three different slides, soft play areas, an immersive interactive room, balance mats, touch screens and obstacles.

For older kids, between five-years-old and 16, there is a play frame, which is dubbed to be the largest in the UK.

Inside there is a network of tunnels, slides and obstacles including bubble balls and spider nets.

Sporty kids can head on the inbuilt football pitch or basketball court too.

Peak general admission varies depending on the age of a visitor.

For six to 11-month-olds, it costs £3.95 each and then for one to four-year-olds it is £12.95 each.

Kids aged between five and 16-year-old cost £17.95 each and parents cost £5.25 each.

Riverside Hub, Northampton

The Riverside Hub in Northampton has several different zones for visitors to explore.

For example, there are the Role Play Villages where kids can use their imagination to explore a make-believe world, with a cafe, shop, witches house and tooth fairy dentist.

For kids a little older and braver, there are a number of climbing activities including a beginner-friendly oak tree and a 10-metre beanstalk.

In the Toddlers at Riverside zone, there are a number of ball pits, activity walls and a gentle waterbed.

There’s a giant play frame as well with four levels featuring slides, games, themed zones and even a football pitch.

Ticket prices usually cost £7.50 per adult and children between one and three-year-old are £12 and finally, kids between four-year-old and 17, cost £15 each.

Travel writer Catherine Lofthouse said: “There’s so much to do here that it’s a struggle to fit it into the two and a half hours that each session is allocated.

“We could have happily spent the whole day and still have gone back for more.

“With three boys aged between five and 12, it can sometimes be difficult to find somewhere that has enough to keep all ages happy as the older two are getting a bit big for soft play, but that certainly wasn’t a problem here.

“Laser tag, crazy golf, two climbing poles, go-karts and even arcade machines all included in the price.

“There’s a mezzanine floor with extra seating that’s perfect for cheering your little climbers on as they get to the top.

“Downstairs, my sons really loved being able to take on the free arcade machines that would be pay per play elsewhere.

“And the go-karts were a big hit too, with short queue times despite how busy the venue was.”

Flip Out, various

There are several Flip Out locations across the UK – which means you likely have one near you.

These indoor adventure and trampoline parks feature interconnected trampolines, foam pits and stunt walls making them ideal for burning energy.

Some of the newer locations, such as Canary Wharf, also have other attractions such as laser quest, bumper cars and interactive football.

Keep an eye out for special events too, as sometimes there are After Dark DJ nights for teens and Mini Flippers sessions for kids under the age of five.

Travel writer Catherine Lofthouse headed to Flip Out Coventry with her three children.

She said: “Based in a former department store in a city centre shopping mall, you enter through a hall of mirrors and an arcade before exploring 13 attractions set over two floors of fun.

“With a ninja warrior course, laser tag, bumper cars and drift trikes, I hardly saw the older two while we were there.

“I think the dark space and graffiti vibe of the upper floor really appealed to my 11-year-old and 13-year-old, feeling a bit more grown-up than the bright lights and primary colours of soft plays aimed at younger children.

“But there was still lots to love for primary aged children here too.

“My six-year-old enjoyed the inflatables, roller rink and football zone.

“For little ones, there’s a dedicated toddler soft play next to the cafe area, so they can play in safety while tired parents have a rest nearby, hot drink in hand.”

Family tickets for two hours are normally £65 for four people or £80 for five.

The Playhive, North Yorkshire

The Playhive at Stockeld Park in North Yorkshire is one of the country’s largest indoor playgrounds – and claims to be one of the biggest in Europe.

While the attraction is not your typical soft play venue, it does features soft play elements.

For example, there is a Baby Bee Play Area for little ones under two-years-old that features soft play.

There is also a bouncy castle.

However, most of the other features are for older children such as the jungle-themed climbing walls.

The whole attraction is heavily themed too, so there are rocket walkways, spaceships, submarines and planes.

A 90-minute session starts from £13.50 or you can also purchase a ticket with access to the full Adventure Park, including outdoor attractions, from £23.50.

In other attraction news, England’s little-known theme park to get two new rides this year in massive multi-million pound expansion.

Plus, first look at the UK’s new Bluey rollercoaster – the first-of-its-kind in the world.

THIS year’s top holiday destination has white sand beaches, beers for less than £2 and very cheap package holidays.

eurochange has predicted where Brits will be jetting off to in 2026 thanks to recent money transactions – and it’s the Dominican Republic.

The travel money provider found that transactions for the Dominican peso increased by 165 per cent in 2025.

Laura Evans Fisk, Head of Digital & Engagement at eurochange said: “As we’ve seen transactions for the Dominican peso surge this year ahead of any other currency, we can definitely expect to see the Dominican Republic at the top of travel bucket lists for UK tourists in 2026. 

“Whilst the Dominican Republic isn’t typically viewed as a budget destination, mid-range hotels are available from around £60 per night, and meals at authentic local restaurants tend to start from around £4.”

As for when’s best to visit the Dominican Republic, December to April is the dry season – this week, the island will see highs of 30C.

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It may be busier but the weather will be hotter and dryer than the other months. 

Meanwhile, May to November is the off-season, when there’s likely to be more rain, but there will be fewer crowds.

Top places to visit include Punta Cana, a town on the eastern coast known for its stunning white-sand beaches and bright blue waters.

There’s also Santo Domingo, the island’s capital, where you’ll find plenty of bars – the average price of a local beer is 150DOP (£1.78).

Check out the restaurants there too where you can try local food like sancocho, tostones, and dulce de leche.

The average price of coffee in the Dominican Republic is £1.46 and a meal for two can be as little as £4, according to Wise.

Of course being on a Caribbean island, you have to head to the beaches.

And the Dominican Republic has two of the best in the world; Canto de la Playa and Bahia de las Aguilas.

Canto de la Playa is a secluded beach on Saona Island and Bahia de las Aguilas is almost five miles long and found on the southwestern coast.

Bavaro Beach was given a TripAdvisor Travellers‘ Choice Award for being one of the best beaches in the world in 2022.

Playa Dominicus in the south is one of the longest beaches in the country. It’s great for swimming and snorkelling so you can see all the marine life off the shore.

In the waters you’re likely to see vibrant coral reefs, tropical fish, sea turtles, stingrays – sometimes even sharks, dolphins and humpback whales.

In the north of the island is the Los Haitises National Park which is home to one of the Dominican Republic’s few remaining rainforests which was used as a filming location for Jurassic Park.

As for getting there, you can fly directly to the island British Airways and TUI began direct flights last year – the journey takes nine hours 25 minutes.

While you might think travelling to the Caribbean will be a huge cost – certain hotels and resorts are surprisingly affordable.

You can book a 14-night stay at the Hotel Capriccio Mare y Restaurante from £696.64pp with TUI.

The hotel has 25 airconditioned rooms, private bathroom with a shower, cable TV, a minibar, and complimentary toiletries.

Italian cuisine is served in the hotel’s restaurant – fresh bread, pasta, and ice cream are made in-house.

There’s a swimming pool and it’s within walking distance to the beach and Splash World Water park.

A 14-night stay for two leaving on January 27, 2026 with bed and breakfast costs £696.64pp – including flights from Manchester.

That works out at just £49.76pppn.

With loveholidays, you can stay at the whala!bavaro from £779pp or £111.28pppn.

The 4-star has bright rooms with an indoor and outdoor pool, spa, buffet-style restaurant and it’s just seconds from the beautiful Bavaro beach in Punta Cana.

The seven-night package for two is all-inclusive and includes flights from London Gatwick with British Airways leaving on September 16, 2026.

Another deal is for a seven-night stay at the Bahia Principe Grand Turquesa with On the Beach.

The 5-star rated hotel sits on the beachfront – it has a swimming pool surrounded by sun loungers, spa, fitness centre and evening entertainment.

You can book an all-inclusive stay from January 27, 2026 from £1,375pp.

One Sun writer checked into another all-inclusive hotel with in-room margarita stations…

Writer Giuli Graziano visited the Dominican Republic heading to Margaritaville Island Reserve all-inclusive resort…

If life gives you limes, make margaritas – as the slogan says on my in-room margarita station.

And it’s a motto I quickly adopt, pouring myself another freshly-blitzed cocktail before taking it out to sip on my balcony with views of the gentle waves below.

You wouldn’t expect anything less from the Margaritaville Island Reserve in the Dominican Republic.

But having my own personal cocktail station — where I can whip up fresh cocktails without even needing to change out of my pyjamas — was only the start of the fun at this beachfront resort.

Right on Juanillo Beach — in the sun-soaked region of Cap Cana, where the Caribbean’s turquoise waters meet pristine white sands — the 5* Margaritaville is a haven for holidaymakers who love an all-inclusive.

Plus, it’s just a breezy 15-minute drive from Punta Cana airport, which is welcome after the 12-hour flight from the UK.

When I wasn’t laid out in the sun, the private balcony in my Paradise room made for a peaceful escape.

And it was the perfect spot for watching the sun rise beyond the ocean at 4am or for tucking into a room service dinner while watching uninterrupted sea views.

You will need to tear yourself away from your balcony (and the 24-hour room service menu) if you want to bag the most bang for your buck though.

Outside of meal times, guests are given 2,000 “points” daily.

These are redeemable at the on-site corner shop, which sells everything from wine and spirits to locally made honey and traditional chocolate bars.

There are also proper iced coffees, sandwiches and desserts.

Then you have your in-room minibar — and that’s before you’ve even tackled the resort’s 15 bars, coffee houses and restaurants.

For more Caribbean holidays, check out this lesser-visited island with zip lines, lobster bars and volcano hiking.

And this is the safest Caribbean island with some of the world’s best beaches and ‘Flamingo Resort’.

A woman has slammed a man for his ‘entitled’ behaviour on their flight – and it has prompted people to share their own stories about sitting next to rude passengers

A woman has criticised an “entitled” fellow passenger for their behaviour on a flight, although some people have dismissed it as a “non-issue”. She detailed her experience on a Delta flight where she had managed to bag an emergency exit seat with extra legroom.

However, another passenger seemed keen on encroaching into her additional space. Posting a photo on Reddit, she wrote: “The audacity. This is my poor (wo)man’s first class…”

The image depicted a man extending his legs into her footwell, compelling her to keep her legs folded and preventing her from enjoying the extra room. While some users felt there was ample space for both passengers, others condemned the man for “manspreading” without considering its effect on her.

One user remarked: “Is that the 27F seat? That’s the one I chose because I heard it’s the best seat, and now I’m worried I’ll have the same issue.”

Another user added: “This is such bizarre behaviour.

“If there were a seat there, he wouldn’t be stretching his leg and foot underneath it… or maybe he would. He probably would – who am I kidding.”

A third user shared their own experience: “My dad always gets this seat on Southwest (he’s six foot six inches), and the other day when we flew together, he had to tell the lady in front that the space was actually for his backpack, not her second carry-on that she refused to put overhead.

“He just said, ‘Excuse me, that’s my spot to put my bag,’ but she gave him such a nasty look.”

Another user said: “At least he still has socks and shoes on.

“My wife had to go full wife mode to stop us from getting kicked off a plane when some random stranger’s bare foot slid up and touched my arm while I was in a window seat.

“I just turned around and said, ‘No, no, no, no.’.”

Another savvy traveller offered some advice: “This is when I put my backpack at the edge of my floor space.

“He can’t put his foot in your space, and even though you lose some room, you can stretch your legs over your bag and take back the space. This has worked many times.”

Revealing her solution to the problem, the woman added: “I pulled my backpack up into the space to use as a leg rest so he had to move. Passive, but it worked – for now.”

Booking a trip abroad isn’t always cheap, but there are three savvy ways that could help you save up to £1,000 off your next holiday – and it’s just by making a few simple changes

Amid the gloomy British weather and sights set on the year ahead, many of us are turning our attention to booking our 2026 getaway. Happily, there are some savvy saving hacks worth noting that could help you save £1,000s on your next holiday, and it’s just by making three small changes.

Once transport, accommodation and spending money are taking into account, things add up. Luckily for us, TUI has outlined some vital saving hacks that help us save extra cash, whether that’s a European city break or a sun-soaked beach getaway.

To reveal the cheapest ways to book a holiday, First Choice, part of the TUI Group, analysed two years of booking data. From this, they discovered that making a booking with slightly unconventional travel details, as they called it ‘Wonky holidays’, makes a holiday considerably cheaper.

One of the major changes was to adjust the number of nights when staying abroad. Instead of defaulting to a 7 or 14-night stay, they recommend booking a 6, 8, 13 or 15-night stay.

First Choice found that travellers booking an odd-length stay, such as 5 or 11 nights, paid up to 13 per cent less per night than those choosing a standard duration. They also found that flying on a Tuesday or Thursday, rather than a Saturday, saved holidaymakers around £70 per person.

The travel group also suggests flying from the cheapest airport available, rather than the closest one. While it’s easier to head to our nearest airport, First Choice found that swapping departure or arrival airports revealed major savings, and in some cases more than £1,000 per passenger.

The findings, compiled in partnership with money-saving expert Jordan Cox, revealed that making these small, unconventional adjustments, such as staying an odd number of nights, flying midweek, or choosing an alternative airport, can help travellers save up to £1,100 per person.

For example, First Choice found that a 7-night stay at the four-star Constantinou Athena Beach Hotel in Paphos, Cyprus, with return flights from London Heathrow on Saturday, 25 July 2026, would cost someone £1,500 per person. However, swapping the flights to London Luton and departing a week before on Tuesday, 14 July, would get the exact same holiday for just £947 – a saving of £553 per person.

They also added that booking a getaway during the quieter months, like January, March, early April, or mid-September, was typically 16 per cent cheaper than peak summer travel. In addition, when booking off-peak times, First Choice said travellers can take advantage of extra deals that are typically available.

Money-saving expert, Jordan, said: “People work hard all year for their holiday, but too often they end up paying a premium simply by following the crowd. The First Choice research shows that being flexible, whether that’s travelling midweek, choosing a different airport, or avoiding the standard seven- or 14-night stay, can unlock significant savings, sometimes even enough to take two trips for the price of one.

“Even small differences in price add up, especially for families, and that extra money can make a real difference once you’re away. A little research and a willingness to embrace slightly ‘wonky’ choices can go a long way.”

Kevin Nelson, the managing director of First Choice, said: “People want incredible holidays, and confidence they’re getting great value. That’s why we created Wonky Holidays: to make it easier to find flexible trips that deliver better value without compromising on experience.”

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

IT’S almost time for the kids’ first break of the year and there are lots of theme parks and holiday resorts with special events for February half-term.

There’s entertainment for the whole family from becoming a pirate to wrestling and pop concerts – here’s the full list to add to your diary.

Alton Towers

Alton Towers in Stoke-on-Trent is going to sea this half-term as it undergoes a Pirate Takeover.

The pirates of Mutiny Bay are once again taking command of Alton Towers.

Entertainment includes Captain Finn’s Training Camp, The Pirates of Mutiny Bay: The Hunt for the Crown of T’Hulu, Pieces of Eight: Interactive Treasure Hunt and Sharkbait Reef by SEA LIFE.

Park day tickets are available from £18pp.

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If you fancy a short-break over February half-term, these start from just £64pp.

Booking a Pirate Takeover short break includes a one-day theme park entry, pirate-themed hotel entertainment, one-day waterpark entry, 9 holes of extraordinary Golf, buffet breakfast and free parking.

Butlin’s

Across the three Butlin’s resorts, Skegness, Minehead and Bognor Regis is a plethora of half-term entertainment.

Headlining February breaks will be Maximum Pro Wrestling which is new for 2026.

There will be celebrity hosts including Peter Andre and Jeff Brazier, with meet and greets,

There’s also The Masked Singer Live on Stage as well as shows like Jack and the Beanstalk, the new Peppa’s Pig-Nic Party and the Theatre of Rock.

February half-term breaks start from £134pp.

Drayton Manor

Drayton Manor is back for half-term breaks and is entering the world of K-pop.

From February 14 to 23, 2026, the park will have live performances, interactive dance workshops, fancy dress competitions and colourful pop-up experiences.

At the end of the day will be a K-Pop concert along with a huge water show on the lake.

Day tickets start from £22.90, or buy a K-Pop Concert Only Ticket for £19.90.

Also open during half-term is the Jolly Buccaneer, Bounty Pirate Ship, Carousel, the 25 rides in Thomas Land and Drayton Manor’s 15-acre zoo.

Legoland

While Legoland isn’t necessarily having a ‘takeover’ this February half-term, it is bringing back Brick Days.

Along with it’s other 30 rides and attractions, guests can take part in exclusive brick building challenges, interactive workshops, and character Meet & Greets.

Day tickets for half-term Brick Days start from £32pp.

An overnight stay which includes one-day park entry and breakfast starts from £117pp.

Parkdean Resorts

Feb Fest is coming to Parkdean Resorts in time for half-term.

Expect a packed itinerary of exciting free indoor and outdoor activities, meet-and-greets with the kids’ favourite characters and live music.

There will be Paw Patrol-inspired activities, Milkshake! mornings, glow parties, famous faces with Reality Rocks and arts and crafts.

February half-term breaks start from £149pp.

For more family fun, check out the first look at the UK’s new Bluey rollercoaster – the first-of-its-kind in the world.

And check out England’s little-known theme park to get two new rides this year in massive multi-million pound expansion.

A BEAUTIFUL house sitting on an English lake has been named the best holiday rental to stay at this year.

Holiday rental franchise, Pass the Keys, has announced the winners of its Property of the Year 2026 Awards – and this holiday home has nabbed top spot.

The property on the website is called ‘stunning 5-bedroom lake house with a hot tub and views‘ has been named ‘Overall Property of the Year 2026’.

In their feedback, judges praised the pretty house for its “total wow factor” and described it as “a luxury leisure stay.”

The house is in the Cotswolds sitting on Minety Lake, with has five bedrooms, five bathrooms – sleeping up to 12 guests.

On the ground floor is an opening kitchen, living and dining space, as well as a private hot tub and access to the shared swimming pool.

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There’s also a cosy snug ideal for children to play in, or stream their favourite shows on the TV.

The living area has a plush orange sofa with squishy chairs and a wood burner.

Open the glass doors to step out onto the private deck with a hot tub, BBQ and jetty for paddleboarding or even a swim.

Thanks to its south facing position, each room and the deck outside is flooded with natural light.

Up on the first floor is one of the two super-king bedrooms which has an en-suite shower room and its own balcony overlooking the lake.

The first floor has another two king-size rooms, one with an en-suite and the other with access to the family bathroom.

If you’re booking a stay, make sure you get first pick of the bedrooms and head up to the second floor.

Described as the ‘jewel of the house’ the master bedroom has an enormous gable-end window with incredible lake views.

On the top floor is a children’s bedroom with a bunk bed that sleeps four, and a small double bed – not to mention it’s filled with toys.

You can pack everything but the kitchen sink as each room has built-in wardrobes too for multiple outfit changes.

There’s plenty of exploring to do as the house sits on the Lower Mill Estate, which is surrounded by a nature reserve that has even more lakes and rivers.

It has private woodlands too, which are ideal for walking, running and cycling if you’re after an activity holiday.

The estate also has amenities that anyone staying in the house can use too, including the two heated pools, a spa, steam room, sauna, gym, restaurant, and soft play.

If you fancy heading somewhere livelier, the market town of Cirencester is a 15-minute car drive away.

The town is often nicknamed the ‘Capital of the Cotswolds’ and has a huge market place as well as lots of independent shops.

Meanwhile, the Malt and Anchor was named one of the best fish and chip shops in the UK.

The holiday home is available to rent from £582 per night.

As the property sleeps 12 people this works out as £48.50 per person per night.

For more staycations, here are six deals across the UK from Cotswolds cottages to lakefront lodges.

And here’s the UK’s best holiday homes revealed – from a private island with a casino to a stunning cottage right on the beach.

Casey from Chorley, Lancashire moved to another country that has been named the world’s most affordable place five years in a row, with rent from £150, meals costing £1-4 and taxis just £3

As everyday essentials and household bills continue to climb amid Britain’s ongoing cost of living crisis, it’s tempting to fantasise about building a life somewhere more affordable. One British woman, Casey, turned that fantasy into reality by swapping Chorley, Lancashire, for a significantly cheaper life in Vietnam.

Vietnam has been crowned the world’s most budget-friendly destination for five consecutive years, based on InterNations’ Expat Insider 2025 survey. Meanwhile, Forbes reports that a staggering 86 per cent of expatriates residing in Vietnam commend the nation’s affordability and cost of living – and Casey is one of them.

“Did you know that you can live in Vietnam for as little as £300 per month?” she revealed in a TikTok video filmed while living in Da Nang, a bustling coastal metropolis renowned for its stunning sandy shores, breathtaking views, and famous attractions, including limestone caverns and Buddhist sanctuaries.

Casey relocated to Vietnam in 2025, revealing she’d allowed herself just 24 hours to secure accommodation, yet still managed to snag a luxurious flat with swimming pool facilities for £490 monthly for herself and her partner. She continued: “I’ve been getting loads of comments that you can stay here for literally £150 per month.”

“It’s literal paradise here,” she said while showcasing the stunning views from her new apartment. In a Facebook update, Casey advised: “Do not look on Airbnb, use Facebook Marketplace because you’ll get it for literally half the price.”

Although she chose a marginally pricier flat, which Casey attributed largely to their pressing timeframe, she noted that sharing the rent with her partner Taylor means they each pay £245 monthly, equivalent to £61.25 weekly. Beyond housing costs, she’s also informed her followers that dining out at restaurants proves equally budget-friendly.

“Food is obviously super affordable – if you eat the western food it’s £4 per meal, but if you eat Vietnamese food it’s £1 per meal,” she detailed, before lauding the taxi service which arrives ‘instantaneously’ and typically costs approximately £3 per journey. “

So on average, I spend around £21 per week on taxi,” Casey shared.

Regarding entertainment options, including excursions or playing pickleball and badminton, the British expat revealed she allocates roughly £25-30, whilst also setting aside another £20 for treats like massages.

For more fundamental expenses, Casey mentioned she also maintains travel insurance, costing her £60 monthly, which breaks down to about £15 weekly. As for income generation, Casey operates through her social media channels and makes a living from her content.

Folks were left scratching their heads at the sums Casey claimed to be spending weekly, with many expressing that it made them consider a similar move. “Another great video! So so excited to get myself back to this stunning country,” one individual remarked.

A different viewer shared: “I was planning on moving to Thailand permanently but after researching Vietnam especially Da Nang I’m now heading there.”

“I need to move to Vietnam. It’s so beautiful and the fooood! !” another person exclaimed.

WITH the launch of series four pulling in a massive 7.5million Brits, it’s fair to say Traitors-mania is in full swing across the UK.

Sweeping success breeds superfans – and they can now live the show out for themselves in a new experience in a UK seaside town.

James and Lindsey Gordon, from Whitstable, are also Traitors fans who have taken their obsession to the next level – by converting their family home into a traitorous lair.

Called House of Deceit, it’s a fully immersive nod to the nation’s newfound love of game shows that play on psychological competition and high-stakes deception.

The experience? A two-night, fully hosted stay where guests take over the large coastal house for secrets, strategy and suspicion.

Lindsey told The Sun: “When we moved to Whitstable, we thought we wanted a semi-detached suburban newbuild to accommodate our growing family.

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“But the estate agent kept driving us past an imposing 1930s house that happened to be up for sale.

“I couldn’t take my eyes off it; it was so grand.”

The former care home had been closed for years – but it was too tempting for the couple who ended up buying the house.

She continued: “Since we began restoring it, we’ve uncovered original fireplaces, beautiful tiles and wooden floors.

“With nine en-suite bedrooms and lots of social space, it feels as though the house has been waiting to welcome new guests all this time.”

She said she even learned more about the house along the way, adding: “It was first built for the local doctor and his surgery before it became a care home, so by all accounts was full of mischievous, eccentric characters.

“It still has a sense of mischief – there are bumps in the night and we’ve heard giggles and laughter come from empty rooms.

“We can’t explain it, but the house is so big and eerie, it’s hard not to wonder if some of the residents ever truly left.”

Buying a big house and doing it up is one thing, but adapting your family home into a real-life murder and deception game is quite another.

For James and Lindsey, it transpires this pretty unusual path unfolded for them naturally, through a series of events that led to a bit of an epiphany.

“Last year, I was looking after my mum who had some health issues,” James explained.

“We became addicted to Celebrity Traitors and made sure we watched every episode together.

“We really bonded over the treachery and backstabbing, which became our special time together.”

It was this combination of connection with his mum through sneakiness and scheming, then finding out that their sprawling coastal home was potentially haunted that caused the penny to drop for James.

“We all love to watch villains on TV,” he said.

“You can trace this way back to Nasty Nick in the first Big Brother. And who didn’t get a kick out of watching Alan Carr embrace his evil side in Celebrity Traitors?

“One day it just clicked – just like the TV shows, we could give people permission to be wicked for a weekend, but in real life; our spooky house has the kind of atmosphere you can’t fake and you don’t need cameras when the guests are the show.”

Riding the wave of the country’s love of deception games, House of Deceit taps into this same appetite, but with an exciting format that will naturally chop and change with each different set of guests.

A fully designed world, led by the suitably sinister ‘Lady of the
House’, bedrooms, gardens and communal spaces all play a role.,

And with challenges, twists and revelations all woven into the stay, it promises to be as tense and theatrical as it is surprising and funny.

“Being stuck together in a creepy, creaking house is the basis for all great murder mysteries,” said James.

“Once you’re in the game, you can’t simply leave, which makes this
a very real experience – it’s actually immersive, rather than just claiming to be.

“Our guests will arrive good-natured and polite towards each other, but we’ll put them to the test and those masks will slip.

“When you discover that your kind aunty Rita has been bumping off
her family members while lying to their faces all weekend, will you ever be able to look at her the same way again?”

House of Deceit has been designed for birthdays, celebrations, team-building, and private get-togethers, with preview dates currently available at a reduced rate before the full launch in March.

The experience is suitable for up to 15 guests, who can all stay in the house.

For the two nights it costs a total of £2,495, making it around £166.34 per person for two nights (so £83.17 per person, per night).

And included in this price is your stay, the hosted game, use of the hot tub, three meals a day prepared by local chefs and a decent amount of wine.

If you want to test out being a Traitor yourself, there is also The Traitors immersive experience in London.

Plus, there’s a Traitors-style Scottish hotel owned by major sports star.

If you’ve always wanted to visit the Maldives, but are lacking the time and budget, Ryanair will be offering inexpensive flights to a European alternative where you can enjoy beaches that are just as beautiful

Budget airline Ryanair has launched a number of new routes to a city that is becoming increasingly popular with Brits, in part thanks to its proximity to beaches often compared to the Maldives.

Ryanair will offer 20 new routes to Tirana, bumping its number of routes into the city to 43 overall. From spring, passengers will be able to visit this Albanian city from Liverpool, Birmingham, and Dublin, with flights taking just over three hours. The new routes are in addition to Ryanair’s existing UK services from London-Stansted and Manchester, and seasonal flights from Edinburgh.

Flights are available to book from Liverpool and Dublin on dates from March 30, and departing Birmingham on dates from March 29. Fares can be found for as little as £23 one-way in May, and with 26C highs during this month, its likely to become a popular destination for sunseekers on a budget in the spring.

If you’re looking for a beach holiday, then you have lots of options once you land in Tirana. Ksamil in the south of the country is one of the most popular beach areas, and you can get a direct bus to the resort from the airport which takes just under four hours. Ksamil is a village that sits between a lagoon and the Ionian Sea, with Corfu just across the water. With its white sand beaches and turquoise seas, plus tiny islands that can be explored by boat, it has drawn comparisons to the Maldives.

For the full Maldives-style experience, book a day at Pema E Thatë, a private beach club where you can hire cabanas. Some beach huts come with overwater nets, where you can sit and relax, watching the gentle waves of the ocean below. You can order a beer from around 250 Lek (around £2.25) to sip while you enjoy the views.

Durrës is about half an hour from Tirana, and is a port city that sits on a long area of sandy coastline. Durrës Beach has a palm tree lined promenade and clear blue waters, yet it’s only minutes from the historic city centre.

There’s also the smaller Plazhi i Currilave right next to the port. While there’s not much space on the sand, you can hire a lounger and umbrella to secure your spot, and there are bars and restaurants right on the beach that create a lively atmosphere.

Durrës is also famous for its Roman amphitheatre, and parts of this 2nd-century structure are still standing including the stone steps. One of the city’s most iconic sights is the 5th-century Venetian Tower of Durrës, a medieval fortification where you can enjoy spectacular coastal views from its old guard towers.

It’s also worth visiting the Muzeu Arkeologjik, a local archeological museum full of items that date back thousands of years that have been discovered just under the city streets.

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Tirana itself is also a fascinating city break destination, bringing together a blend of styles from Ottoman to Soviet in one colourful city. Skanderbeg Square is a great starting spot to explore. You’ll find buildings such as the 17th century Et’hem Bey Mosque sitting alongside the Soviet-style Opera House, and the National History Museum which is adorned with a huge mural depicting people fighting for the country’s freedom.

You can also visit the unique Bunk’Art 2 – a museum set inside a Communist-era nuclear bunker. Climb down the steep steps and you’ll enter an immersive world where you can learn about the fascinating history of Albania and what life was like during its decades as a secretive Communist state.

Many visitors to the city also recommend a trip to Tirana Castle. While only a few ruins remain of the medieval castle, the spot has been turned into a unique attraction with food stalls and places to buy handicrafts, so you can pick up some souvenirs and try Albanian cuisine.

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

People are urged to brush up on the rules and regulations for the country they’re going to before heading to the airport

Anyone planning a stay at a European hotspot this year has been reminded of an important rule that experts say has been catching Brits out. Travel specialist Simon Hood has warned of a ‘little-known’ law that could leave holidaymakers in a spot of bother when heading to a popular Mediterranean destination.

Located on the western reaches of the European Union, Portugal has become a favourite with British holidaymakers since the late 1950s. The rise of the budget airline, resorts along the Algarve, and affordable cost-of-living has made it a mainstay among Brits, transforming the nation into a European favourite.

According to Portugal’s National Institute of Statistics (INE), approximately two to three million British nationals visit the country’s cities and resorts each year. Ranking the UK behind Spain, but ahead of the United States, as Portugal’s largest tourism markets.

However, one ID law many may not be aware of could end people’s stay on the coast, according to travel expert Simon Hood, executive director of relocation firm John Mason International Movers. Simon warns that failure to comply with a single piece of local legislation could result in detention by police, a fine, or even the seizure of property.

Simon explains: “Over the years, I’ve heard countless stories from friends and relatives running into a spot of local trouble in Portugal by failing to follow one simple rule. Portuguese law clearly states you need to carry your national ID card, or passport, at all times.

“While the UK doesn’t have a national ID card, at least not yet, a UK driver’s licence alone is not sufficient, meaning you’ll be expected to always carry your passport. Many British holidaymakers believe a UK driver’s licence is enough, but it isn’t.

“The UK Foreign Office and US State Department both advise that a scanned copy of your passport should be enough if asked to produce ID by police. But they could still ask you for the hard copy.”

Simon says the consequences of failing to produce ID when asked by police could be serious, including the potential to derail your Portuguese holiday. He said: “The consequences include an unspecified fine assumed to be somewhere in the region of a few hundred euros, possible detention, and being escorted to your hotel or Airbnb to produce ID.

“It could even lead to the seizure of property. So, if you’re bringing back a bottle of bubbly to the hotel and then suddenly stop without ID, your evening plans could be a tad delayed.”

The legislation mandates that citizens and residents aged 16 or older must carry identification in public, such as an identity card, passport, or residence permit. Accepted documents include:

• Portuguese Citizens: Citizen Card (Cartão de Cidadão) or passport.
• EU/EEA/Swiss Nationals: Residence permit, valid national identity card, or passport.
• Third-Country Nationals (Non-EU): Residence permit or valid passport.

Enabled to modernise Portugal’s bureaucracy upon joining the European Union in the mid-1980s, the move was in part designed to align the country with policing standards across the bloc and has since become an ingrained daily habit across Portugal. People must produce these documents upon the request of authorised law enforcement or immigration officers.

By law, all paid accommodation providers (hotels, rentals) must collect and record these identification details for all foreign guests. For more information, you can view official guidance on the Portuguese Government Portal.

Simon explains why Brits in particular fall afoul of these rules. “Carrying ID and having national ID cards is commonplace across the EU, it’s something people don’t think twice about out of habit, but not so much in the UK. It’s not cultural here to carry ID, in fact, the opposite, most Brits when asked would opt not to,” he said.

“The recent uproar over the government’s ‘BritCard’ plans is a testament to this weird quirk in our national identity. Even going back to the early 2000s, we didn’t want them. I suppose it’s a difference between us and the continent.

“However, when in Portugal, carry your passport; a scan alone might not be sufficient, and you’d really hate to be escorted by the police back to your hotel room on holiday. On balance, I’d take my passport with me; it’s not worth the risk.”

Since the beginning, guests at Children’s Fairyland have been welcomed by a sculpture inspired by the nursery rhyme “There Was an Old Woman Who Lived in a Shoe,” now a pink, oversized ankle boot with a crooked roof and eye-popping, candy-like buttons. Today, the shoe is raised on a concrete, plant-adorned platform, but it originally sat flat on the ground, forcing grown-ups to duck to enter the park.

The entrance to Children’s Fairyland is a nod to “There Was an Old Woman Who Lived in a Shoe.”

(Michaela Vatcheva / For The Times)

That was more than just a quirk of design. It was a mission statement.

The 10-acre garden wonderland, nestled around Oakland’s urban sanctuary of Lake Merritt, has maintained one core rule since it opened its gates on Sept. 2, 1950: “No child without an adult, and no adult without a child.” For Fairyland aims to show the world through the eyes of a young’un — a place filled with curiosity, but also perhaps a bit off-kilter, where one can walk into a whale and find a fishbowl, slide down a dragon and get lost in an “Alice in Wonderland” maze of cards.

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And yet, for more than 75 years now, Fairyland has had a grown-up sized influence. Fairyland is considered the first “storybook”-style park in the country, launching a national fad. Legend has it that Walt Disney visited Fairyland while Disneyland was in the planning stages and was so taken with it that he poached some staff. Fairyland’s “magic keys,” which unlock audio tales throughout the park, were an innovation felt across numerous industries. And the park has been instrumental in the puppet space, home to what’s said to be the oldest ongoing puppet-focused theater in the country. Those at L.A.’s own long-running Bob Baker Marionette Theater today cite Fairyland as an inspiration.

It is Fairyland’s thesis that continues to feel revolutionary. And that’s a belief that the way to understand, learn and grow is via the stories we tell one another, and those narratives need no fancy tech or digital accouterments.

Kymberly Miller, CEO of Children’s Fairyland, says she’s working on a plan for the park’s next 75 years.

(Michaela Vatcheva / For The Times)

“Families want simplicity,” says Kymberly Miller, Fairyland’s CEO. “They want to come in and be like, ‘I feel really safe here.’ It’s a contained space. It’s big but it’s small. Kids can run around and make up things to do with the canvas of Fairyland.”

To enter Fairyland, and it’s estimated that about 150,000 people do each year, is to not just set foot into a handcrafted fantasyland but to also step back in time. It persists at a time theme parks have increasingly targeted a young market with a host of upscale tricks. Legoland, for instance, will this March open a new land in Lego Galaxy with a family roller coaster as its signature attraction. Also this year, the Universal Kids Resort is slated to open in Frisco, Texas. It’s a smaller Universal Studios geared toward a younger audience but featuring cinematic brands such as “Shrek” and “Jurassic World.”

Children’s Fairyland from above. The park is situated around Oakland’s Lake Merritt.

(Michaela Vatcheva / For The Times)

The nonprofit Fairyland is downright quaint in comparison — tickets are under $20, with steeper discounts for Oakland residents. Surviving societal, technological and bureaucratic shifts, it’s become the little park that could, its durability a statement of defiance in our fast-paced, divisive world.

And its story begins once upon a time.

“Children’s Fairyland” was inspired by a kid-focused zoo in Detroit and has long featured animals for little ones to meet.

(Children’s Fairyland)

Children’s Fairyland was the vision of Arthur Navlet, a retired owner of Oakland’s largest nursery. On a visit to the Belle Isle Aquarium in Detroit, Navlet and his wife were smitten by the park’s children zoo, which, as detailed in the book “Creating a Fairyland” by Randal J. Metz, a former Fairyland art director who currently leads the park’s puppet program, exhibited the animals amid fairy tale-like enclosures. Navlet had an idea for a fanciful park in Oakland, and took the concept to the Lake Merritt Breakfast Club, a long-standing civic-focused group dedicated to preserving and sustaining Lakeside Park.

With the organization, and soon the city, behind him, Navlet tapped painter and sculptor William Russell Everitt to create the Fairyland look. It wasn’t always a smooth partnership. Everitt, for instance, created a model of an English cottage that Navlet thought was a bit too realistic. Everitt, writes Metz, took a baseball bat to the tiny sculpture and stormed out of the room. But he didn’t quit the project, and future designs were full of oblong shapes, zig-zagging roofs and slanted walls, designs that were playful but also a nonsensical view of reality.

And thus the Fairyland-style was established. Copy-cats soon followed around the country. In California alone, Fairyland helped inspire the likes of Fairytale Town in Sacramento and Fresno’s Storyland. Fairyland, meanwhile, kept innovating.

An audience watches “King Midas and the Golden Touch” at the Storybook Puppet Theater at Children’s Fairyland in Oakland. Children’s Fairyland has had a grand influence on the puppet arts.

(Michaela Vatcheva / For The Times)

Kids take in a puppet show at Children’s Fairyland. The park runs multiple shows per day.

(Michaela Vatcheva/For The Times)

“They started adding puppetry and magic and all these things kids absolutely loved,” says Metz. “That started here at Fairyland. There was no other place that was doing that at the moment. After Fairyland opened in 1950, Life magazine did a big full-color spread, and then all over the United States people wanted to build Fairylands.”

While Fairyland started a national trend, perhaps the most famous person to visit the park was Disney, who, says Metz, arrived at Fairyland on Easter Sunday in 1954, a year before Disneyland opened in July 1955. While the Walt Disney Family Museum and other Disney historians say there is no official record of Disney visiting the park, local newspapers of the era documented his appearance and many, including Metz, take it as fact that Disney spent an afternoon at Fairyland.

Willie the Whale at Children’s Fairyland, one of the park’s most famous installations.

(Michaela Vatcheva / For The Times)

Metz writes in his book that Disney was particularly taken with Fairyland’s mini post office, which allowed children to send letters straight from the park. Disneyland to this day has mailboxes in the park. Many draw a comparison to Fairyland’s Willie the Whale and Disneyland’s Monstro at the start of the Storybook Land Canal Boats, as both aim to swallow guests. The parks also share a love of garden-strewn pathways and an emphasis on breaking up environments with trees, mixing fantasy and nature to create a calming, safe-feeling environment. And Disney, of course, hired Fairyland’s director Dorothy Manes to work on Disneyland.

“She was one of the few women in administrative leadership,” says Cindy Mediavilla, a retired lecturer from UCLA’s department of information studies and author of the book, “The Women Who Made Early Disneyland.”

To Mediavilla, she is an overlooked Disneyland personality, working to set up tour school groups, help define children’s activities and be an advocate for Disneyland’s overly congenial hospitality. “She was credited with coming up with response to people who come up and say, ‘We love Disneyland. Thank you so much,’” says Mediavilla. “She was credited with coming up with the phrase, ‘It’s been my pleasure.’”

She also helped maintain Disney’s direct line to Fairyland, as Disney in 1957 would once again poach from Fairyland, this time puppeteer Bob Mills to run Disneyland’s budding marionette program. Fairyland’s importance in the area of the puppet arts would be hard to overstate. Celebrities in the space, such as Frank Oz, apprenticed at Fairyland, and Metz continues to run multiple shows per day, both revivals and original creations.

Burt, with master puppeteers Lewis Mahlmann and Frank Oz at Children’s Fairyland.

(Children’s Fairyland)

Metz’s workshop is directly behind Fairyland’s puppet stage, and it’s a mini marionette museum, filled with books, pictures and, of course, puppets. Behind his desk hangs a Pinocchio puppet he made for the Walt Disney Co., and retired puppets from Highland Park’s Bob Baker Marionette Theater can also be found in Metz’s nook. It’s a treasure trove, as intermixed with Fairyland’s puppets will be those from Walt Disney World’s Epcot, such as a fiery red Pantalone from the theme park’s Italy pavilion.

“Children’s Fairyland, for a lot of puppet theaters, including Bob Baker Marionette Theater, is really the one that we look to,” says Winona Bechtle, Bob Baker’s director of partnerships.

“How do you build out a space and experience around a puppet show?” Bechtle continues. “Of course, they’re different than us, as they have the infrastructure of the amusement park around them, but it’s a full-scale immersive experience that takes you beyond a small stage in a church or a community theater. When you’re at Fairyland, there’s a pomp and circumstance to entering the park, approaching the theater and taking a seat. Us, as puppeteers at Bob Baker Marionette Theater, continue to remain inspired by it.”

Randal J. Metz, director of the puppet program at Children’s Fairyland. It’s “kiddie tech,” says Metz, when asked about the power of Children’s Fairyland.

Not all of Fairyland’s innovations stuck. In its early days, the park hoped to establish a “pet lending library,” and briefly advertised that guests could borrow rats, guinea pigs, lizards, snakes, foxes and more for a two-week period. It’s safe to say it didn’t get off the ground, although Fairyland today does house donkeys, goats, chickens and bearded dragons, among other animals, for children to meet.

And yet Fairyland’s magic keys, introduced in 1958, would inspire not just other parks but museums and zoos around the country. The conceit sounds simple today: Kids are given a small plastic key, for which they insert in a box near an installation and then are regaled with music and a short nursery rhyme or folktale. It was the brainchild of Bay Area television host Bruce Sedley, who also fashioned himself as an amateur inventor.

“That’s the icon of Fairyland,” says artist Jeff Hull, an Oakland native who once acted at Fairyland as a child performer and has created numerous immersive art projects, including “The Cortège” last fall in L.A.

“You put the magic key in these boxes that look like storybooks and now you’re hearing an audio track that corresponds to an installation? That in itself is immersive art,” says Hull. “That’s storytelling. That’s an installation as performance. That’s the recipe for what so many people have continued to do and expand on.”

To now walk among Fairyland is to feel as if an arm is being extended, an invitation to play, to be silly and to wonder. Children’s Fairyland is full of hand-painted delights. Stroll a path and look down and spy some smiling sunflowers hidden in the bushes. There are fun house mirrors, a whimsical train, a mechanical Geppetto waving in a workshop and a cat ready to set sail atop the mast of a ship.

There’s even a mini chapel — yes, a chapel — complete with stained glass windows initially designed by children, for those who need a meditative break from running the grounds. A vintage Ferris wheel, themed to “Anansi’s Magic Web,” is an opportunity to rediscover the folktale via the attraction’s netting-like design.

A Ferris wheel inspired by “Anansi’s Magic Web” at Children’s Fairyland.

(Michaela Vatcheva / For The Times)

Maintenance is a large expense for the park, as most sets need to be repainted yearly due to a combination of environmental and hands-on wear, but the park is also vibrant and in conversation with nature. The striking red-and-bronze sculpture of the smiling Ching Lung the Happy Dragon, for instance, circles around and through a towering tree.

“We believe very strongly in ‘kiddie tech,’” says Metz. “We wanted everything to be hands-on. When children are excited about a set at Fairyland, we try to let them imagine they are in it. Henceforth Alice in Wonderland’s tunnel, and going through the cards and pretending you’re one of Alice’s people.”

Carissa Baker, a Los Angeles native who is now an assistant professor of theme park and attraction management at the University of Central Florida, says that Fairyland created its own stamp on children’s architecture and fairy-tale imagery. “Now, we look at the elaborate spaces of theme parks, and we have all these elaborate forms of fantasy environments,” Baker says. “But I kind of see the seed of these fantasy environments in a place like Children’s Fairyland.”

Miller has been overseeing Fairyland for about five years, and she talks of setting the tone for the park’s next seven decades. First, she’s been working on expanding the park’s access. Those, for instance, who receive any sort of financial assistance can visit the park for $5 per person, a program started in 2023 that now serves close to 20,000 people. Next up is building structures to house the park’s eight-person maintenance team to better manage repairs and upkeep.

Children play at Children’s Fairyland.

(Michaela Vatcheva / For The Times)

Broadening Fairyland’s story content is also a goal. Later this year, Fairyland will debut a puppet program inspired by Native American folklore as Metz and Miller seek to continue to diversify Fairyland’s offerings.

“There’s people whose stories are not being told in the park,” says Miller. “Most of the stories told here are Northern European in nature. So it’s really my job to unpack some of that with staff and figure out how to create more access.”

And long-term, Miller would love to add some fresh fairy tale installations. That would require successful fundraising endeavors, but Miller stresses any future additions would be in line with what already exists, meaning a focus on imaginative play rather than “digital expression.”

Old fashioned, yet inventive and timeless. That’s the Children’s Fairyland way.

Alton Towers has revealed the official name of its much-anticipated Bluey-themed rollercoaster which will be coming to CBeebies land in spring, and it’s based on a memorable episode from the show

Fans of the Heeler family will soon be able to enjoy a Bluey-themed rollercoaster at Alton Towers, and a sneak peek shows what fans of the show are in for.

The cartoon dog family, who are much loved by young fans and secretly adored by many parents, are already fixtures of CBeebies Land, with a live stage show and popular meet-and-greet. However, this rollercoaster will be the first Bluey-themed ride in the world, and puts the show alongside CBeebies favourites such as Peter Rabbit and Hey Duggee.

The rollercoaster’s name has been revealed as Bluey the Ride: Here Come the Grannies!, and a teaser image shows Bluey and Bingo dressed in their granny costumes. The grannies – Janet and Rita – ride in their car up front with several rollercoaster cars behind them.

The name of the ride is in reference to a season one episode of the show, Grannies, where Bingo and Bluey dress up as mischievous old ladies and cause chaos throughout the house, learn to floss, and manage to crash their car. Their cry of “Here come the grannies!” signals the start of the game and prepares their parents to play along.

Natasha Spence, Events Director of Live Entertainment at BBC Studios said: “We know that whenever the Grannies come out to play, it is a fan-favourite moment for those that love the show. We are excited that the energy of these much-loved characters is being brought to life in Bluey’s first-ever coaster at Alton Towers Resort – home to CBeebies Land.”

The live stage show will continue at the Big Fun Showtime area, where kids can get a photo with Bingo, Bluey, Bandit, and Chilli after the show. And Bluey superfans will be pleased to hear that the Alton Towers Resort is adding additional Bluey-themed rooms to the CBeebies Land Hotel.

The Bluey room is modelled after the Heeler family’s colourful home and includes pictures of the family on the walls. Sleeping up to five, kids have their own area with bunkbeds that looks just like Bluey and Bingo’s bedroom, so they can enjoy a fun sleepover experience. Even the bathroom has a Bluey theme for extra fun bath times for your own mucky pups.

Families of up to seven can also book a Bluey suite, which has a separate kids’ sleeping area, plus a spacious themed playroom area where the kids can pretend they are on a playdate at the Heeler house. Staying at the CBeebies Land Hotel also gives you access to a range of activities and entertainment including a kids’ disco in the evening, plus all stays include a full English breakfast buffet in the morning.

More details of the new rollercoaster and its official opening date will be released in due course. Find out more about CBeebies Land and book tickets on the official Alton Towers website.

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

The UK’s longest direct train service, the CrossCountry Aberdeen to Penzance route, was cancelled last year

The UK’s longest train journey, the CrossCountry Aberdeen to Penzance service covering 775 miles, was axed in 2025. First introduced in 1921, this route departed Aberdeen at 8:20am and was due to reach Penzance over 13 hours later at 9:31pm, calling at multiple British cities including York, Leeds, and Birmingham.

The service made its final journey on 16 May, after CrossCountry announced it was withdrawing the route to provide a “more efficient service” for passengers and staff. In its place came a new shorter service, lasting 11 and a half hours and ending in Plymouth instead of continuing to Penzance.

On its last day of operation, rail enthusiasts from across the country travelled to Aberdeen to experience the complete journey.

Speaking to the BBC, one such enthusiast, John Labrow, said: “It’s probably the longest journey I’ve ever done by train, it’s the last of a great era. It’s a privilege.”

Meanwhile, train driver Martin Wallace, who was allocated to the route in 2024, told the broadcaster he was thrilled to be driving it for the final time: “It’s very exciting, isn’t it. The last voyage.”

Taking more than 13 hours, it’s thought that at least two of these were actually spent waiting for passengers to board and disembark at the 36 stops throughout the journey.

Announcing the termination of the route back in 2025, a representative for CrossCountry stated: “Amending our Aberdeen to Penzance service from May 2025 will mean a more efficient timetable for our train crews and a more convenient service for our customers, making a day trip from Bristol and the west of England to Penzance more viable.

“The new timetable will also deliver an additional service in each direction between Glasgow and the North East of England towards Birmingham.”

Following the discontinuation of this service, it’s believed that the UK’s longest direct train service is now the Caledonian Sleeper’s overnight train from London Euston to Fort William, which takes approximately 12 hours and 45 minutes.

Ferries and flights were cancelled in Malta yesterday as Storm Harry lashed the island, with gusts reaching 120km and waves washing over the streets of coastal resorts

A winter-sun island has been turned into a ghost town, with locals and tourists alike sheltering indoors.

Storm Harry pummelled Malta throughout yesterday and overnight, hitting the European island with 120km winds and large waves that breached the sea defences, flooding coastal towns. Resorts such as Marsaskala were overwhelmed by the surge, which dumped debris across the streets.

Ferries between Malta and Gozo stopped operating, leading hotels on the main island to offer cut-price accommodation to those unable to get home. MaltaPost suspended deliveries and yesterday’s waste collection was stopped to avoid rubbish bags being blown onto the roads. The streets were deserted for much of Tuesday as locals heeded calls to stay home.

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The Mirror’s Rachael Penn found herself swept up in the storm chaos, having picked the ‘jewel in the crown of the Mediterranean’ for a winter sun break.

“Weather here in January is usually perfect, cool but bright with plenty of sunshine and temperatures sitting around 16C with the evenings getting a little chillier. In all the years of visiting at this time of year I’ve only ever seen it rain a handful of times, but this year Storm Harry rolled in, bringing torrential rain and violent winds, prompting severe weather warnings and advice to stay indoors while it passed,” she wrote from the safety of her Valletta hotel as the ferocious weather raged outside.

The scenes in the capital were worlds away from how they typically are at this time of the year, when sunseekers fill the medieval streets.

“Valletta felt like a ghost town, with businesses closed, restaurants shuttered and tourist attractions, including many of the city’s museums and palaces, simply not open,” Rachael wrote.

“Still, I thought it was a good time to explore Valletta whilst it was so quiet. I headed from my hotel to Republic Street, battling the gusts to get up the hill. Aside from there being no people around, it was a strange sight not seeing the rows of outdoor seating that had taken over the pavements and had been a cause of discontent amongst the locals for many years. With the streets clear and it almost felt like a glimpse into what historic Malta would’ve looked like.

“From Republic Street, I made my way to Upper Barrakka Gardens, one of the city’s most popular viewpoints with sweeping views of the Grand Harbour and Three Cities. As I approached the edge of the city walls, I could feel my exploration was about to come to an end as the wind was so strong it nearly knocked me off my feet – and I like my wine and pastizzi a little too much to ever be someone knocked off their feet by a gust of wind.

“So as I turned back down the hill, I was pleasantly surprised to see that a couple of the landmark pubs were still open for weary travellers and locals who happened to be blown through their doors. The first one was The Pub, the infamous spot where Oliver Reed died in 1999 after drinking 8 pints of lager, 12 double rums, half a bottle of whisky, and a shot of cognac. It’s very much an old-school boozer, steeped in naval history as well as a shrine to Reed lining the walls.”

Before heading back to her hotel, Rachael went in search of a bite to eat.

“With most of the restaurants closed, it was a relief to see that one of my absolute favourite restaurants in Valletta was still open – Cafe Jubilee. Cafe Jubilee is like stepping inside a 1920’s Italian restaurant, with red and white checked tablecloths and vintage posters adorning the walls. Go in the afternoon as it’s a little like a gangster film with men in suits sitting around enjoying a hearty lunch, by the evening it’s a cosy bistro perfect for a bite to eat or a glass of wine,” she continued.

“After a meal, it was time to head back outside, drenched and windswept. We made it back to the hotel, where the next few hours were spent watching the most incredible lightning storm, which went on for hours.”

The worst of the storm eased overnight, with most flights scheduled to arrive today on time.

“The coast was, of course, the worst hit during the storm, with property damaged, boats pushed out of the water and onto the promenade, and flooding. But one thing is for sure: even at its worst, Malta is still a beautiful place to be. There’s something surreal about watching a storm of this magnitude unfold in a place that is usually so busy and full of life. The quietness and eerie view of empty streets is a reminder that even the sunniest of islands aren’t immune to the powerful force of nature,” Rachael concluded.

On the Beach has slashed deposits and launched free child places to help families afford their 2026 summer getaway

On the Beach has unveiled two significant modifications to holiday reservations that allow travellers to secure their getaway for the smallest deposit amount in its history whilst taking a child along at no extra cost.

Starting today, On the Beach has slashed its deposits by £11, enabling Brits to reserve their 2026 break from £19 per person.

The move makes the upfront cost for securing a holiday as budget-friendly as possible, particularly as numerous Brits face their sixth week without wages, having been paid prior to Christmas and now awaiting their next salary until the end of January.

It’s not the sole initiative the package holiday specialists have implemented. On the Beach has also introduced complimentary children’s accommodation on selected breaks. The promotion will provide hundreds of cost-free hotel stays for youngsters at family-friendly resorts across the Canaries, Turkey, Spain, Egypt, the Balearics and beyond.

Zoe Harris, chief customer officer at On the Beach, said: “This is a major step in making holidays more affordable for families. By lowering our deposits to just £19 per person and introducing free stays for kids, we’re reducing the upfront cost of booking and taking away some of the financial pressure that can come with securing a holiday.

“We know family budgets are stretched right now, especially after the Christmas period, so this is about giving people confidence to book early, spread the cost, and enjoy something to look forward to without the stress.”

It’s not just low deposits and complimentary kids’ stays that On the Beach is providing. The package holiday firm are also throwing in free perks on all holiday bookings in 2026.

Anyone taking a break with On the Beach in 2026 and reserving up to 60 days before departure is guaranteed three perks.

One of either complimentary lounge access, free gadget insurance, free weather protection or a £50 Amazon voucher plus Price Drop Protection and 1GB of free mobile data.

Kids stay free offers

Based on two adults and two children with two rooms:

• A seven night all-inclusive break at Sol Katmandu Park & Resort in Lanzarote, with departures on Monday 4 May from Bristol costs just £473pp and includes one complimentary child place.
• A seven night all-inclusive getaway at Titanic Beach and Spa in Hurghada, Egypt, with departures on Wednesday 3 June from London Luton costs just £443pp and includes one complimentary child place.
• A seven night B&B break at Falcon Naama Star in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt, with departures on Wednesday 3 June from London Gatwick costs just £325pp and includes one complimentary child place.
• A seven night all-inclusive holiday at Magic Aqua Rock Gardens in Benidorm, with departures on Wednesday 6 May from London Luton costs just £495pp and includes one complimentary child place.
• A seven night all-inclusive break at Ukino Palmeiras Village in Portugal with departures on Saturday 2 May from Manchester costs just £468pp and includes one complimentary child place.

ONE theme park in the South West is adding two new rides this year – and one will be the tallest in the region.

Crealy Theme Park & Resort has announced a huge expansion with two rides that will be a first for the Devon theme park.

The first ride to open at Crealy will be Pirates’ Plummet which when it opens will be the tallest ride in the South West.

The drop tower will be familiar to some as it was previously known as ‘Magma’ in Paultons Park and has been transported to Devon.

Crealy said it’s a “dramatic free-fall experience unlike anything currently available in the county, offering a new level of excitement for older children, teenagers and adults”.

Pirates’ Plummet will open in spring 2026.

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The second ride coming to Crealy is Rotor: The South West’s First Inverted Ride which is set to open in summer 2026.

Crealy said: “The high energy ride will spin and flip guests, representing a major milestone in the Resort’s evolution and further strengthening its appeal to thrill-seekers.”

Currently, Crealy Theme Park & Resort has more than 60 rides and attractions along with live entertainment and play areas.

The theme park did big at the UK Theme Park Awards last year.

Crealy won Gold for ‘Best Theme Park for Families’, Gold for ‘Best Theme Park for Toddlers’, and a Silver for ‘Best New Entertainment’ with Sooty’s Disco Dance Off.

Speaking of Sooty, Crealy Theme Park is home to the UK’s only Sooty Land based on The Sooty Show that aired back in 1955.

Fans of the show can watch live shows on the mischievous yellow hand puppet called Sooty.

Sooty Land opened back in 2022 and features a host of rides dedicated to the on-screen bear and his furry pals.

One of the themed rides is Sooty’s Magic Bus, which moves park-goers up and down.

There’s also Sweep’s Flying Circus, Soo’s Sweet Balloon Ride and Izzy Wizzy Let’s Get Dizzy.

The park has plenty of indoor attractions too which are found inside the Pier including carnival games and a mirror maze.

Day tickets to Crealy Theme Park & Resort during the winter season start from £14pp (those under 92cm can enter the park for free).

The resort also features on-site accommodation, serving as a short-break destination for families.

There are camping options, caravan holidays, themed glamping and even luxury hot tub lodges.

Glamping breaks during February half-term start from £299 – these include theme park tickets.

One Travel Reporter gives her verdict on Crealy’s Theme Park & Resort…

Travel Reporter Cyann Fielding gives her verdict on Crealy Theme Park…

Local theme parks can often be discredited as not as good as major theme parks like Thorpe Park or Alton Towers, but Crealy in Devon actually does have something for everyone.

Having spent more times than I can count there when I was growing up, it is the ideal theme park if you have kids of different ages.

And thanks to lots of indoor areas, when it is raining the attraction is still a great spot.

Train-themed rollercoaster Maximus is the perfect introductory ride for children if you are planning to take them away to larger theme parks in the future.

If your kids love animals, head to the theme park in the spring when they often have lambs that visitors can feed.

In the summer months, the Wilderness area is a must. 

A lot of families skip this part but for curious children it is a feast for the eyes and imagination as it is full of treehouses, obstacles, lakeside walks and ‘Walk on the Wildside’ with farm animals.

Definitely go on the log flume last if visiting the park – it is a brilliant ride and one of the best log flumes I have been on to date, but you do really get soaked.

If you make the mistake of going on the flume before heading elsewhere in the park then there is a giant human drying machine outside the ride which costs a couple of quid.

Parents wanting to feel nostalgic should definitely explore Sooty Land – there are four Sooty-themed rides, meet and greet opportunities and the world’s first Sooty store.

For more new rides, Alton Towers will launch ‘world-first’ rollercoaster that even toddlers will love this year.

And here’s ALL of the exciting new rides and rollercoasters opening in the UK and Europe in 2026.

THE world’s first Bluey rollercoaster is opening in the UK – with new images revealing what is to be expected.

The new ride will open at the CBeebies Land at Alton Towers.

Called Bluey the Ride: Here Come the Grannies!, the ride is based on the episode where Bluey and Bingo dress up as grannies called Janet and Rita.

Causing chaos with driving and dancing will be the theme of the ride.

The new images show both of the characters dressed as the grannies as they side in the carriages on the rollercoaster track.

Little else is known about the ride, but it will be for families so younger riders can enjoy it too.

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Also part of the new experiences will be meet and greet with the characters.

This includes both Blue and Bingo, as well as Mum (Chili) and Dad (Bandit).

A live show experience will also be created, and be found at the Big Fun Showtime.

Finally, new Bluey-themed hotel rooms will open at the CBeebies Land Hotel, joining the already opened Bluey suite.

Alton Towers‘ Vice President: Howard Ebison, said: “We can’t wait to welcome the mischievous and limitless energy of the Grannies to the resort when we open the Bluey the Ride: Here Come the Grannies! this spring. 

“Alongside even more bespoke Bluey-themed hotel rooms, we’re excited for the fans to enjoy the new attraction and immerse themselves in the mayhem of the Grannies.” 

BBC Studios’ Events Director Natasha Spence said they chose the theme of the rollercoaster due to the episode bein a “fan favourite”.

It is set to open by spring 2026, although an official opening date is yet to be confirmed.

Sun writer Hannah praised the already-opened Bluey hotel rooms.

She said: “The theme tune plays out of the speakers and adults can stay in Bandit and Chilli’s room.

“Inside was king size bed, TV and lots of pictures of Bluey and Bingo as puppies, much to the delight of our kids.”

Elsewhere in CBeebies land, there are rides including Hey Duggee Big Adventure Badge, Andy’s Adventures Dinosaur Dig and JoJo & Gran Gran At Home.

A one day pass to CBeebies Land is from £34pp when booked online.

For more new rides, here are all of the exciting new rides and rollercoasters opening in the UK and Europe in 2026.

Plus, this mega £740million theme park with world’s fastest, longest and tallest rollercoaster has finally opened its doors.

Juliet Leith was left in a coma for four days and in intensive care for 12

A woman nearly died after contracting Legionnaires’ disease during a £2,000 holiday to Gran Canaria. Juliet Leith from Maidstone spent 12 days in the ICU after developing flu-like symptoms, joint pain and breathlessness while staying at a four-star hotel.

The 58-year-old spent four days in an induced coma, and her daughters flew out to be by her bedside after being told she might not pull through. Juliet had been staying at the Suite Princess in Playa Taurito when she became ill and was admitted to a nearby hospital after developing severe pneumonia.

Upon her admission on September 26, 2025, she tested positive for Legionnaires’ disease. According to NHS England, Legionnaires’ disease is a lung infection you can get from inhaling droplets of water from things like air conditioning, hot tubs or baths and showers that are not used often.

Despite initial treatment, her condition deteriorated, and Juliet was placed in an induced coma for four days, with doctors warning her two daughters – Jenny Gower, 38, and Josie Leith, 34 – that she may not survive, prompting them to fly from the UK to be by her side.

Juliet, a retired primary school teacher, said: “I have very vague memories of being in hospital and I didn’t realise how serious things were until I woke up and was told I’d been in an induced coma for four days. That was a huge shock. I couldn’t believe how close I’d come to dying – later the doctors told me my chances of survival were only around 20% and the initial treatment hadn’t worked.”

The mum-of-two spent 12 days in the ICU before she had recovered enough to return home. O n landing at Gatwick Airport, Juliet was immediately transferred to Maidstone Hospital for further assessment and treatment.

After receiving ongoing care, she has now been discharged and referred to a respiratory consultant. Juliet continues her recovery as an outpatient under specialist supervision. Juliet has now instructed serious injury lawyers at Irwin Mitchell to investigate how she fell ill with Legionnaires’ disease on her holiday, which cost her more than £2,000 and was booked through tour operator TUI UK Limited.

Juliet arrived at the resort with her sister, Maureen, on September 18, 2025. On September 22, she began to suffer flu-like symptoms and was admitted to the hospital four days later. “When I first started feeling unwell, I thought it was just flu or maybe Covid. Legionnaires’ disease never even crossed my mind,” Juliet added.

“You never imagine something like this happening to you, especially on holiday. “The hardest part was knowing my children had seen me like that. Even now, I’m still missing chunks of memory and trying to process what happened.

“I never imagined Legionnaires’ could be so serious, and I believe there needs to be more awareness of its symptoms and how dangerous it can be. Only after my diagnosis did I learn that simple steps like running showers and checking air conditioning units can help prevent Legionnaires’.

“I know I’m one of the lucky ones. Now, I just want answers and hope that by sharing my experience, we can stop others from finding themselves in the same situation.”

Symptoms of Legionnaires’ include shortness of breath, a high temperature and chest pain or discomfort, particularly when breathing or coughing. Jatinder Paul, the expert international serious injury lawyer at Irwin Mitchell representing Juliet, said: “Juliet’s near-death experience must have been terrifying.

“Public buildings like hotels often have complex water systems, so strict precautions are essential to stop the bacteria that cause Legionnaires’ disease from developing. Nothing can undo what Juliet and her family have endured, but we are committed to getting her answers and specialist support.”

A TUI spokesperson said: “We are sorry to hear about Ms Leith’s circumstances as we want customers to have the best possible holiday experience. As this is a legal matter, we are unable to comment at this stage.”

England’s tallest single-drop waterfall is a popular attraction for those who love to explore the great outdoors – and it’s just as stunning as it is impressive

Yorkshire is a treasure trove of hidden gems, and this stunning waterfall is no exception, attracting visitors with its unique features that set it apart in the country.

Nestled within the Yorkshire Dales, behind the tranquil village of Hardraw, lies the renowned Hardraw Force. It holds the title of England’s highest single-drop waterfall, presenting a truly awe-inspiring spectacle. The water cascades from an impressive height of 100 feet, equivalent to 30 metres, maintaining a single unbroken drop throughout.

Visitors from far and wide can marvel at this natural wonder by strolling through a picturesque valley, even stepping behind the veil of tumbling water. But it’s not just its towering height that puts this waterfall on the map. Many will recognise its scenic backdrop from a well-known film.

Hardraw Force graces an iconic scene in Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves, the 1991 classic featuring Kevin Costner. In a memorable sequence, Maid Marian, portrayed by Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio, observes Robin Hood bathing beneath this very waterfall.

The scene was shot from the surrounding gorge, which encircles the fall like an amphitheatre and forms part of the grounds of the historic Green Dragon Inn.

The site is under the stewardship of the same owner as the quaint pub, who has worked hard to restore the area to its natural splendour for visitors to appreciate.

The grounds span a whopping 15 acres, complete with a car park for visitors and a well-maintained Heritage Centre that serves as the gateway to the stunning water feature.

Entry is priced at £4 per person, with discounts on offer for families and senior citizens. Dogs are welcome too, provided they’re well-behaved, and the path has been deliberately gravelled to facilitate wheelchair access.

A recent guest at Hardraw Force shared their thoughts on TripAdvisor, saying: “Excellent place to visit, especially after rainfall. An easy walk and a harder one if you are fit. Dogs are welcome too. Go early if you can, and you may see a red squirrel.”

Another visitor shared: “The waterfall itself was spectacular. A lovely flow of water into the pool below, this provided a lovely picturesque setting for everyone to enjoy. Absolutely worth visiting for the beautiful scenery.”

Meanwhile, another guest wrote: “Visited the waterfall today, cold but had blue skies and sunshine, which made the waterfall even more spectacular. It’s privately owned and costs £4 p/p which goes to maintaining the falls and the gorgeous surrounding area.”

They added: “It has a small on-site cafe and toilets, which were very clean. The walks around the waterfall are easy to a little more challenging, we had stayed at the lovely Green Dragon Inn that backs straight onto the entrance for the waterfall.”

In the heart of London’s Square Mile, between the windows of a tapas restaurant, a 150m-year-old ammonite stares mutely at passersby. The fossil is embedded in a limestone wall on Plantation Lane, sitting alongside the remnants of ancient nautiloids and squid-like belemnites. It’s a mineralised aquarium hiding in plain sight, a snapshot of deep time that few even glance at, a transtemporal space where patatas bravas meet prehistoric cephalopods.

How often do you give thought to the stones that make up our towns and cities? To the building blocks, paving slabs and machine-cut masonry that backdrop our lives? If your name’s Dr Ruth Siddall, the answer to that question would be yesterday, today and every day for the foreseeable. Her passion is urban geology, and it turns out that the architecture of central London – in common with many places – is a largely unwitting showcase of Earth science through the ages.

“This is York stone,” she says, pointing at the slabs beneath our feet as we wander the pavement of Eastcheap. An e-scooter swishes past. “It’s a fine-grained sandstone, around 310m years old, quarried in the Peak District. It was once a prehistoric riverbed – you can still see the ripples in the surface – although to picture the world back then you need to imagine Sheffield looking like the Brahmaputra [river, which spans China, India and Bangladesh].”

I’ve joined Ruth, a distinguished geologist and very affable company, on one of the walking tours she offers around different parts of the capital. Her own enthusiasm for street-level geology kickstarted in Athens in the early 1990s where, post-PhD, she was tasked with cataloguing a collection of rocks from Greek ruins. “It was essentially a big pile of rubble,” she smiles, “but it was an absolutely fascinating project. It got me hooked.”

In the decades since – and drawing inspiration from her former colleague Eric Robinson, a pioneer of urban geology – she has seen her adopted home of London in a new light. For Ruth, the city’s walkways, shop facades and statue plinths aren’t merely civic structures. They have epic stories to tell, not only in terms of their social history but their material origins, too. “London is huge, but unlike some cities it has no local building stones of its own,” she says. “It’s basically in a basin of clay, so all the stones you see around us have had to come from elsewhere.”

It brings fresh meaning to the idea of a rock biography. Around 10 years ago, in partnership with a fellow geologist, Dave Wallis, Ruth helped to establish London Pavement Geology, a website and app that gives a free comprehensive list of sites of geological interest around the capital, and increasingly in other UK towns and cities too (my wishlist is currently topped by the lobe-finned fish suspended in Edinburgh’s Caithness flagstones). Her guided walks, offered through the longstanding tour company London Walks (search for “geology”), will this year run on a roughly monthly basis, starting in spring.

Over two hours, we come across sedimentary, igneous and metamorphic rocks from places as disparate as Australia, Brazil and China, each stone type having been selected for its aesthetic value by the architects of the day. Outside a travel agency, Ruth identifies serpentinite, a Cretaceous stone from the Italian Alps. A pillar outside a pub turns out to be made of smooth 290m-year-old larvikite from Norway (magma that cooled kilometres beneath the surface of the planet, and, conveniently, easy to wipe down after a heavy night). And we linger over the Monument column, its Portland stone base crammed with Jurassic oyster shells and pitted with prehistoric shrimp burrows.

It’s a time-travelling, mind-boggling tour. We attract looks – it transpires that if you peer at something usually considered unremarkable, people stare at you – but frankly, when you’re hurdling geological epochs at every corner, who gives a schist? The Monument itself, of course, commemorates the Great Fire of London, which more than any other event accelerated the use of stone architecture in the capital. The Romans were the first to import stone building blocks here, but it wasn’t until the restructuring of London began in the late 1660s that natural, hard-wearing materials became more commonplace.

There’s nothing commonplace, however, about many of the stones we stop at. Near St Paul’s Cathedral – the steps of which hold 30cm-long fossilised orthocones (“They looked a bit like swimming carrots,” says Ruth) – the limestone exterior of a wine bar displays an even rarer find: a small vertebrate bone from 150m years ago. “Possibly a pterosaur,” she explains, “but we might never know.”

Best of all, perhaps, is the co-working space we pass on Houndsditch, its exterior constructed of gneiss from a meteorite impact crater in South Africa. About 6,000 miles from its place of origin, the stone’s surface is still patterned with crack-like veins of black impact glass, which also contain traces of the meteorite’s extraterrestrial minerals. Oh, and it crashed to earth a mere 2bn years ago. Now there’s something to mull over when January feels like it’s going slowly.

The walk was provided by London Pavement Geology. Ruth leads guided walks with London Walks, £20 for adults on a group tour, walks.com

This beautiful town gets 573 hours more sunshine a year than the UK average

At this time of year, it can seem as if the weather in the UK is particularly miserable. The cold, wet weather isn’t helped by the fact the sun continues to set early in the day.

But this won’t be the case forever, with clocks set to go forward in March giving us much longer days. And some parts of the country will get even more sun than others.

Certain areas typically get more sunshine due to their location and local climate. Taking the top spot in the UK for this is a “small” but charming town you may not have heard of.

Located on the Isle of Wight off the south coast of England, Shanklin boasts the most sunshine hours a year. Based on Met Office data, it gets 1,976 hours of sunshine per year.

This is 573 hours more than the UK average and 44 more than the runner-up of Folkestone in Kent. This data was analysed by Sunsave Energy, which said on its website: “The Isle of Wight receives the gold medal for sunshine.

“Located just off the south coast of England, this little island is famous for its sunny weather, seafront promenades and beach huts. It’s no surprise that Queen Victoria regularly chose to retreat here.

“The Met Office has several climate stations on the Isle of Wight, but it’s the one in the small town of Shanklin (population: 9,000) that tops the UK sunshine charts. With 1,976 hours of sunshine per year, the Isle of Wight is a whopping 573 hours up on the UK average (1,403).”

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Shanklin is a well-established holiday spot that can be found on the south-east coast of the island. Families can enjoy its beautiful sandy beach, amusement arcades, and shops.

For nature lovers, Shanklin Chine is a must-see coastal ravine, featuring waterfalls, trees and lush vegetation. Visit Isle of Wight, the island’s official tourist information site, explains: “One of the jewels of Sandown Bay, the town of Shanklin has long been known as a traditional holiday destination and has everything you need for a great family holiday or to go to with friends or as a couple. With lots of seafront hotels, amusement arcades and crazy golf, it is the epitome of the British beach resort.

“But Shanklin these days is so much more than that. It has a thriving town centre with a host of independent shops, restaurants and pubs and its own theatre.

“Then there is the history of the town, from it being the home of the poet Keats to its vital role in the Second World War. Whatever you like to do on holiday, then Shanklin is certainly a place to ‘Say Yes’ to.”

The other sunniest places in Britain, as per Sunsave Energy, were:

• Folkestone, Kent – 1,932 hours of sunshine a year
• Bognor Regis, West Sussex – 1,919 hours
• Hastings, East Sussex – 1,915 hours
• Weymouth, Dorset – 1,904 hours
• Eastbourne, East Sussex – 1,892 hours
• Southend-on-Sea, Essex – 1,884 hours
• Ramsgate, Kent – 1,846 hours
• Walton-on-the-Naze, Essex – 1,824 hours
• Swanage, Dorset – 1,806 hours
• Bournemouth, Dorset – 1,779 hours