TRAVEL

EACH Christmas, one major activity fires up the magic spirit for families – festive train fun.

With November just one week away, family members are most likely going to begin nudging you for things to do together over the festive period – and what is a more perfect way to spend time with the family than a Christmas train experience!

From trains wrapped in lights to journeys to see Santa, the UK isn’t short of Christmas rail experiences.

Here are some of the top Christmas train experiences across the UK.

The Polar Express

Perhaps one of the most iconic Christmas train experiences is The Polar Express, which runs in a number of locations across the country including Birmingham, London and south Devon.

Inspired by the iconic film, passengers get to head on board with a Golden Ticket to meet Santa, whilst enjoying entertainment, music and even dancing chefs.

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Trips depart from across the country and tickets prices vary depending on date and location, but can usually be found as low as £27 per person.

Santa Steam Express

The Santa Steam Express heads off from London Victoria Station and features an interactive storytelling theatre experience whilst on the journey.

Passengers will also get to meet Santa and his elves.

The experience runs on December 20 and December 22, with four departures each day.

The experience then lasts around 90 minutes, taking passengers through London’s suburbs.

All children get to meet Santa, who will deliver them a traditional gift and they will also receive a snack and drink.

Parents aren’t left out though, as they will be able to have tea or coffee and a mince pie.

There are a range of different classes on board the train that vary in price.

For example, Coach Class costs from £55 per person, Club Class from £75 per person and Private Compartments available from £600 each, for up to six guests.

Christmas North Yorkshire Pullman

On board the North Yorkshire Pullman, passengers get to journey through the North York Moors National Park.

Each guest will enjoy a three-course meal, with tea and coffee, as well as a mince pie.

Trips take place from November 25 to January 4, departing and returning to Grosmont Station.

Seats cost from £99 per person.

Christmas Afternoon Tea on the Great Western Saloon

For an afternoon treat, opt for the Great Western Saloon, which departs from Grosmont in North Yorkshire.

The train travels along the heritage line and as it does, passengers get to enjoy a range of sandwiches, other savoury nibbles and sweet treats.

The experience will be running on November 27 and December 4, 11 and 18.

Tickets cost £85 per person and the experience is for those aged 16 and over.

All Aboard for Festive Dining

Down in Devon, the South Devon Railway is running the ‘All Aboard for Festive Dining’ experience.

Dubbed to be “one of Britain’s most nostalgic rail journeys”, passengers will be able to see the stunning Dart Valley scenery as well as hear the chugs of the steam engine.

Passengers can choose from four different experiences.

In the 1950s Restaurant Car, guests can enjoy a Festive Ploughman’s Lunch with local cheeses, chutneys and bread, or opt for Festive Afternoon Tea instead.

Alternatively, head to the 1925 Pullman Car ‘Lydia’ for a spot of luxury dining in Winston Churchill‘s former dining carriage.

In this carriage, guests can have a Pullman Festive Afternoon Tea or the Pullman Christmas Lunch.

The festive dining experiences run throughout December, costing from £69.95 per person.

Kent & East Sussex Railway (K&ESR) Santa Specials

The Kent & East Sussex Railway will feature Santa Specials this festive period.

The experience lasts 75 minutes, and passengers get to have gifts hand delivered by Santa.

On board, there are also a number of family photo opportunities and complimentary hot drinks (which includes mulled wine for adults).

You also get entry to the Winter Wonderland marquee and unlimited rides on the vintage gallopers at Tenterden Town Station.

With the Bronze package, passengers get a complimentary refreshment pack, containing a mince pie for each adult and a chocolate bar for each child.

Passengers in Silver and Gold class carriages then get to meet Jingle and Sparkle, Santa’s Head Elves.

There are Silver first class and Gold premium class packages as well.

The 2025 Santa Specials run every weekend from November 29 until December 21, plus December 23 and Christmas Eve.

Tickets cost from £30 per person (based on booking a table of four for £120).

Elf Express

The Strathspey Railway travels through the Cairngorms National Park on a heritage steam train, and for the festive season there will be elves onboard with the passengers.

Kids even get the chance to meet Santa.

A trolley will also operate on board with seasonal treats, like the Festive Steam Tea with sandwiches and cakes, hot chocolate and prosecco.

The train is running on selected Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from December 6.

A table for four on board the train costs from £95.

Steam Illuminations

Along the Watercress Line in Hampshire you could hop on board the Steam Illuminations train – a train wrapped in LED lights.

Travelling from Alresford or Alton, the heritage steam train dates back to between the 20s and the 30s.

The journey lasts one hour and 45 minutes, and passengers will see illuminations along the way.

There are even ‘singing’ Christmas trees at Alresford.

The train is operating on various dates from November 28 to January 4 and it costs from £34 for adults and children.

Epping Ongar Railway Santa Specials

Families heading on the Epping Ongar Railway Santa Specials start their journey before they reach the station.

As they can hop on a vintage London bus at Epping Underground station or in Ongar, to get to North Weald Station – and you’ll spot different festive characters will be walking around.

Then once on board, the train will head off on a return journey via Epping Forest.

The Santa Specials trains will be running on November 29 and 30 and on December 6, 7, 13, 14, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23 and 24.

Tickets start at £65 per two people.

Bluebell Railway SteamLights

The Bluebell Railway SteamLights train heads off through the Sussex countryside, with passengers able to spot festive-themed scenes along the way.

Then the train arrives at Horsted Keynes Station, with passengers able to get off and take pictures of the train which is entirely covered in lights for 30 minutes.

The train then heads back to Sheffield Park, with the experience lasting around two hours in total.

The experience is running from November 22 to December 28 and tickets start from £35 per person.

Christmas Train of Lights

Located along Dartmouth Steam Railway in Devon is the Christmas Train of Lights – supposedly the UK’s first ever steam train of lights, according to the operator’s website.

Both a spectacle from the inside and the outside, passengers will get to experience lineside displays and a number of festive surprises throughout the journey.

They will run from November 28 to December 30.

Tickets cost £29.95 per adult and £21.95 per child.

East Somerset Railway Santa Paws

One for families with a much-loved pooch is the East Somerset Railway Santa Paws experience.

Four-legged friends aren’t left out of the fun on this one as you can bring them along to meet Santa.

There are lots of photo opportunities and your pooch even gets a special gift.

The experience will run on December 6 and 7.

Tickets cost £15 per adult and £10 per child.

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This city is considered a ‘hidden gem’ as it gets fewer tourists than hotspots such as Barcelona or Malaga, but it could be the perfect combination city and beach break for autumn

Ryanair have launched a new direct flight from London Stansted to a Spanish city that has been dubbed ‘underrated’ and a ‘hidden gem’.

The budget airline will now operate a London to Murcia flight four times a week, with the journey taking just under three hours. Murcia, which is set in Spain’s southeast, just over an hour from Alicante, is a lesser-known region, but once you step off the plane you can choose to explore the city or head to the nearby coast.

The timing of the new route is perfect for those who are already a little sick of the autumn weather. This week, Murcia has seen highs of 31C, while in November it can hit up to 21C. While it’s not the hottest destination in December and January, with highs of 18C and 17C respectively during the day, it tends to be mild and have low rainfall. However, it’s worth packing cosy pyjamas, as it can get cold at night.

The city of Murcia is packed with things to do, and it’s a must for history buffs, having been settled by the Romans and the Moors. Visit Murcia Cathedral, an ornate, Gothic cathedral that dominates the skyline, or the Santa Clara Museum which was once a Muslim palace, that became a Monastery in the 14th-century.

You’ll also find a wide variety of museums, such as the Museo Arqueológico de Murcia, which is full of treasures, and the Salzillo Museum, dedicated to the locally born sculptor Francisco Salzillo, who made dramatic religious artworks.

Murcia also has amazing shopping. The huge Centro Comercial Nueva Condomina has lots of big Spanish and European brands from Bershka to Zara, while Centro De Artesania De Murcia is full of handcrafted and artisanal items that make great gifts. It’s no wonder Murcia was dubbed ‘underrated’ by National Geographic.

Just over 20 minutes from the airport is the port city of Cartagena, famed for its Roman Amphitheatre. It’s also packed with historic sights such as the Roman Forum Museum and the Punic wall dating back to the 3rd century BC.

Cartagena is also perfect for a beach break. Visit Cala Cortina, an unspoilt beach surrounded by rugged cliffs. It has soft sands, and because it’s set in a bay, the waters are calm for swimming.

Another beach destination close to Murcia is La Manga, just over half an hour from the airport. This unique spot sits on a strip that’s 13 miles long, but only 100 metres wide, with a lagoon on one side and the Mediterranean Sea on the other. This means you’ll never struggle for a place on the long sandy beach, and pretty much all hotel rooms have either a sea or lagoon view. There’s also a large marina with lots of restaurants and boat hire if you want to take to the water.

Whether you’re planning a city break, or want to hit the beach, it’s worth considering Murcia instead of one of the bigger, more touristy Spanish cities. Despite its numerous historic attractions and close proximity to amazing beaches, Murcia only received 1.16 million visitors last year, compared to 26 million who chose Barcelona. But tourist numbers are on the rise, so plan your visit before it gets discovered by the crowds.

Book it

There are direct flights to Murcia from several UK airports available this October from £15.

At least 229 flights have been cancelled

A massive airline system failure has left thousands of travellers facing lengthy delays. Alaska Airlines called for a temporary ground stop early on Friday morning (October 24) which resulted in at least 229 flights being axed.

The number of passengers – including Britons – who may have been delayed or impacted remains unclear. Horizon Air, a subsidiary of Alaska Airlines, was also hit by the disruption. Flight operations have now resumed.

The carrier emphasised that safety was never compromised during the breakdown, which stemmed from a malfunction at the airline’s primary data centre. Matas Cenys, head of product at Saily, explained that even small technical faults can paralyse vital processes, creating chaos for travellers.

They explained: “Airlines today operate on highly interconnected digital systems. When one system fails, the effects can spread across the entire network, grounding flights and disrupting operations. This is why Alaska Airlines’ recent outage, while labeled a ‘technical error’, caused widespread cancellations and delays. Even minor glitches can freeze critical processes because redundancy systems are not always perfect.

“Airlines’ digital systems are like a row of dominoes. Each system – scheduling, crew assignments, baggage, gates – depends on the one before it. If a single one falls, even from something small, like a database error, it can trigger a chain reaction that stops the whole operation. Most passengers never see these links, but that’s how flights keep running on time.

“There’s also a cybersecurity overlap. Even when outages are accidental, system downtime can create potential opportunities for attackers to exploit vulnerabilities. During a disruption, normal safeguards and monitoring may be reduced or delayed, allowing malicious actors to target systems before defences are fully restored.

“Travel runs on trust that systems will work, flights will depart, and bags will arrive. Every outage chips away that confidence. Rebuilding it will require transparency and visible investment in resilience.

“Every outage has a huge human cost. Travelers get stranded in airports, tired and nervous, and airport workers have to operate under stress trying to manage the chaos. This incident should serve as a reminder to the entire travel and tech industry to reassess and reinforce their IT systems.”

A content creator and her friends were impressed by the palatial decor when they visited a café often praised as ‘the most beautiful in the world’, but there was one drawback

A content creator who went to one of the most beautiful cafés in the world loved her experience at the famous venue, but couldn’t believe the prices on the menu, especially after discovering how much a bottle of water would set her back.

Posting her financial ordeal on TikTok, Claudia Sierra and her friends revealed to her 45,000 followers on the platform the eye-popping price tags at the New York Café in the Antara New York Palace Hotel, Budapest.

The café is considered one of the most historic and luxurious cafés in the world and is beloved for its interior decoration, featuring chandeliers and frescoes. It was also a meeting point for Hungarian artists.

Discussing what she observed before she went in, Claudia said of the stunning restaurant: “Look at the coffee shop where we stopped for a cup of coffee. They can take my ribs out right here, I don’t care.

“All I see is people flipping through the menu on repeat, trying to find something reasonably priced.”

Upon flicking through the menu themselves, Claudia and her friends became shocked when they saw how much a bottle of San Pellegrino water cost, €12.50 (£10.91), a figure reflected in an online version of the menu.

A friend of Claudia’s said: “The water bottle costs 12.50 euros.”

Instead, the group opted for tap water to save a little bit of money.

Another friend added: “Oh, we’re going to have such a good breakfast! I’m crying. Thank goodness they gave us a little bit of tap water to wash down the biscuit.”

The water isn’t the only pricey item on the menu, with a cappuccino costing €11 (£9.59) and grilled ham and cheese sandwiches with sour cream flavoured salad priced at €16 (£13.95).

Claudia and her friends aren’t the first people to note how high prices can be in popular restaurants. Luxurious eateries have long been alluring for the experience of being in them, and being able to say you’ve visited.

Earlier this year, another content creator visited Sushi Kanesaka at 45 Park Lane in London, a venue which has just 13 seats at the sushi counter and is one of the UK’s most expensive restaurants.

The restaurant, which launched in 2023 and was masterminded by Shinji Kanesaka, charges around £420 per person for its set menu. So impressive is the experience, that one visitor described it as ethereal.

They wrote on Google: “The most amazing sushi I’ve ever had outside Japan. Awesome food, service and atmosphere. Only 13 sushi bar seats in entire restaurant, 9 in main and a more private 4 seater. Pricey but ethereal.”

On the expense, one diner wrote: “Yes it is expensive, however the experience is extremely intimate with only a few small sittings each night. Further to this the ingredients used are absolutely the best on offer.

“I have honestly never been served a blue lobster and the Kobe beef was certainly as good as the best wagu I have previously tried in Japan.

“The whole team was extremely professional and very attentive. The Sake pairing was again exceptional with the sommelier describing each in amazing detail.”

SPAIN is usually just a short flight from the UK, but there’s one city further afield and is actually closer to Morocco than the Spanish mainland.

The small coastal city has plenty of historical sites, beaches and a mythically-inspired building.

The city is called Ceuta, and doesn’t tend attract Brits, instead visitors tend to be Spanish and Moroccan thanks to where it sits in North Africa.

But there’s plenty to see, including one popular attraction called House of the Dragons, aka Casa de los Dragones, which sits on the corner of Kings Square.

Construction on the building started in 1897 and was completed in 1905, it got its name thanks to the four bronze dragon statues on the roof.

The original dragons were removed in 1925 and lost, but four new dragons were later added in 2006, these are made of resin and fiberglass – they weigh less than 200kg each.

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One visitor wrote on Tripadvisor: “Stunning architecture and well kept with dragons on the roof……… Straight out of Game of Thrones or Harry Potter!!!”.

There’s a similar building in the town of Valencia, which is called the Building of the Dragons.

The Valencia house incorporates dragons too, but more subtly.

Despite its proximity to Morocco, the official currency in Ceuta is the Euro, as it’s a Spanish city.

Visitors can expect to pay about €2.50 to €3 (£2.62) for a local beer and around €15 (£13.08) per person for a “menu del día” – which is a set Spanish menu.

Ceuta has beaches like Playa del Chorrillo, which is close to the Strait of Gibraltar and has pretty scenic views.

The city has cobbled streets, historic buildings, and cultural landmarks like Royal Walls of Ceuta, also called Murallas Reales de Ceuta, a historic fort dating back to 962 AD.

Another popular site is the Ceuta Cathedral, a yellow-and-white cathedral overlooking Plaza de África.

As Ceuta is in North Africa, it’s convenient to explore Morocco too.

About an hour away by car is the seaside city of Tangier city is at the very tip of Morocco and on a clear day, you can even see Spain across the Strait of Gibraltar.

Tangier has been a major trade centre for thousands of years thanks to its location and busy port.

Visitors can learn about its interesting history with a guided tour, and wander through Kasbah, the walled part of the city full of tiny streets and alleys.

Kasbah has been used for Hollywood movies including James Bond and the Bourne film series.

For more on a trip to Morocco, check out the other cities with souks and where to find golden beaches.

For Brits, the best way to visit Ceuta is to fly to a Spanish mainland airport like Malaga or Algeciras, then take a car or bus to Algeciras port, and finally a ferry to Ceuta.

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One UK tourist attraction has been named the spookiest tourist attraction in Europe

For those keen to inject some spine-chilling thrills into their next holiday, Europe offers countless eerie destinations to explore. Yet the most bone-chilling spot of all might be right on our doorstep.

Norwegian Air has declared the Edinburgh Vaults in Scotland as Europe’s most terrifying tourist attraction. These underground chambers were carved out within the nineteen arches of Edinburgh’s South Bridge.

Initially serving as storage facilities for South Bridge businesses from 1788, this purpose proved short-lived. During the Industrial Revolution, they transformed into overcrowded slum dwellings, with cramped rooms sheltering families of up to ten people.

The vaults eventually earned notoriety as one of the city’s most perilous areas, becoming a breeding ground for criminal enterprises.

Underground spaces were converted into illicit gambling establishments and bootleg whisky operations. Sinister tales even suggested that body snatchers would temporarily store cadavers in certain vaults overnight.

Given this grim and shadowy past, it comes as little surprise that the Edinburgh Vaults are reportedly haunted. Spectral encounters include phantom children who grasp visitors’ hands during tours, and the infamous ‘Mr. Boots’, whose thunderous footsteps occasionally reverberate throughout the chambers.

One TripAdvisor reviewer shared their experience: “Had a wonderful time exploring. Worth booking in advance. Very interesting to learn new things. Unfortunately I can’t remember the young ladies name who lead us but she was amazing and very knowledgeable.”

Another added: “We had the most amazing tour thanks to our guide, Kieran. It was just myself and my partner on our tour, but that didn’t phase our guide! He struck the right balance between scary/paranormal stories and the dark historical past of the vaults. If you’re coming to Edinburgh, carve out an hour to go on this tour, it was my favourite thing we’d done on this holiday!”

Meanwhile, a third wrote: “Great tour with a fantastic tour guide Aimee who was very informative & comical. Really interesting to learn about the history of the underground vaults.”

Coming in second place amongst Europe’s most spine-chilling destinations was Portugal’s Capela dos Ossos, or Chapel of Bones, whilst third place was claimed by Lithuania’s haunting Hill of Crosses.

The Edinburgh Vaults weren’t the sole UK location to feature on the list, with the Tower of London, another notoriously ghostly site, securing fifth position.

Europe’s 10 spookiest places

1. Edinburgh Vaults, Scotland
2. Capela dos Ossos, Portugal
3. The Hill of Crosses, Lithuania
4. Catacombs of Paris, France
5. The Tower of London, England
6. Dracula’s birthplace, Dublin
7. The Church of Ghosts, Prague
8. Nidaros Cathedral, Trondheim
9. Pfaueninsel, Berlin
10. Moosham Castle, Austria

IT’S all change for tour operator TUI, which will operate flights for certain package holidays through a third-party rather than its own airline.

Next summer, TUI will fly holidaymakers to its destinations using other airlines like easyJet and Sun Express.

According to reports, TUI is dropping its direct flights from Manchester to Portugal‘s Faro and Bodrum in Turkey.

On TUI’s website, Sun Travel found that direct flights between Manchester and Faro can’t be booked after April 19, 2026 – with only four other flights available between now and then.

On its website, TUI is offering packages from Manchester to Portugal throughout the year and into 2026 with direct flights from easyJet.

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Package holidays from Manchester to Bodrum with TUI can be booked from May 2026 with flights from Sun Express.

Flights from regional airport Birmingham and Gatwick to Faro for next summer will also be operated by third-party airlines.

As a result TUI said it will be putting more capacity into destinations including Balearics, Italy, Greece and Croatia, with TUI Airlines.

Sun Travel has contacted TUI for comment.

In March, TUI Group CEO Sebastian Ebel said in an interview with the Financial Times that the it planned to sell more seats on other airlines, including Ryanair and easyJet in order to “generate growth”.

Earlier this year, the tour operator completely scrapped its flights from the UK to Costa Rica, St Lucia and Orlando.

The London Gatwick to Costa Rica route was scrapped in April 2025, and TUI’s St Lucia flights from London Gatwick stopped at the end of May.

TUI first launched flights to St Lucia from both London Gatwick and Manchester Airport in 2020.

Again, TUI still offers holiday packages to both St Lucia and Costa Rica, but flights will no longer be with TUI Airways.

TUI also scrapped its direct flight route from Birmingham to Orlando, which was axed in October 2025.

In other news, TUI has confirmed that it is in talks to return to Doncaster Sheffield Airport if it can open next year.

It was forced to shut back in 2022 due to financial difficulties, with TUI operating the last flight.

When it comes to airlines, TUI has said they could relaunch their flights – which once connected the airport to destinations including Alicante, Malaga and Tenerife.

TUI boss Neil Swanson said at the ABTA conference in Majorca: “Clearly that is something we are talking about.

“We were in there before, it is part of an ongoing discussion.”

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Edinburgh is a stunning city at any time of year, but it’s said to be particularly beautiful during autumn when the leaves turn into shades of yellow, orange, and red.

One travel blogger on Ourcrossings described the city as “beautiful” throughout the year, but particularly stunning during autumn.

There’s reportedly an “extra dose of magic” as foliage transforms into hues of yellow, orange, and red.

The blogger observed: “With colourful leaves framing its every corner, Edinburgh turns into an autumnal dreamland that feels like a world away from the rest of Europe.”

Edinburgh presents a magnificent sight, positioned against the majestic Castle backdrop, and boasts numerous parks for visitors to explore.

Key locations include Princes Street Gardens, where you can stroll towards attractions such as the Scott Monument, Ross Fountain, and the National Museum of Scotland, reports the Express.

Additionally, there’s the Royal Botanic Garden, the adjacent Inverleith Park – merely a three-minute stroll away – and Edinburgh Old Town.

“The Old Town is home to some of Edinburgh’s biggest and best attractions,” highlighted Forever Edinburgh.

Renowned landmarks feature Edinburgh Castle, St Giles’ Cathedral, and the Palace of Holyroodhouse.

The Palace serves as the official Royal Residence in Edinburgh where guests can view Mary Queen of Scots’ bedchamber.

Edinburgh has also gained recognition for its guided walks, allowing you to discover stories from historical periods whilst becoming familiar with the ancient city.

Forever Edinburgh suggests Mercy Tours to uncover stories of murder and mystery along the cobblestone streets.

For those who fancy a bit of exploration, GuruWalk’s free walking tours allow you to hop-on and hop-off at various intriguing spots.

Not to mention, the Scottish capital is brimming with snug pubs, delightful eateries and shops just waiting to be discovered.

WHO can say no to a Wetherspoons? And what if I told you the smallest one in the world is just as good as the rest, if not better.

Not only is it the smallest Spoons, but it is also in a rather bizarre location – a train station.

Of course, some UK airports have Wetherspoons, but I have never come across one in a train station before.

Sat at one end of Cannon Street Station in London, you will find the Sir John Hawkshaw, complete with just 42 tables.

Whilst that might sound a lot, compared to the usual London Spoons, this is considerably less.

And the obscurities about this spot just continue – if you need to use the toilet, well then you’ll need to head to the other end of the station and down a set of stairs.

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I tested out the journey myself, and it took me around one minute (no good if you’re desperate!).

For those who love to train spot, sit outside on the terrace, which is essentially like sitting on one of the platforms.

The boozer opened back in 2014 and is named after one of the co-designers of the original station building, which first opened in 1866.

Inside, it does have a more cosy feel than most Wetherspoons pubs I have visited.

With Halloween fast approaching, the interior was decked out with cobwebs and pumpkins.

But keen to experience the pub-slash-train-station experience, I opted for a table on the terrace to enjoy my nachos.

Despite its small size, the pub still features Spoons’ extensive menu and the service isn’t impacted either.

To learn more about the pub, look for a blue plaque on the veranda.

It states: “The station had eight platforms under a single span arch roof.

“Far below the station are the remains of a Roman palace, built in the first century.”

At another point, the ‘Steelyard’ was used by German and Flemish merchants.

However, in 1666, it was then destroyed during the Great Fire of London.

A quarter of a century later, and the Company of Plumbers built their Livery Hall on the site, which remained there until the 1860s.

I sat peacefully enjoying my chips, nachos, chicken strips and raspberry lemonade, coming to a grand total of £18.

Whilst eating I noticed how the pub also has a unique soundtrack – clinking glasses mixed with the clack-clack of trains running over metal rails.

In all, I found myself feeling like I was in a quiet bubble in the middle of the hustle and bustle of commuters and tourists.

It felt as if I was in an airport, enjoying a drink whilst people watching – but with no pressure that I was going to miss my flight.

For the tired and sore commuter, this spot is ideal for a post meeting drink, before hopping on a Southeastern train home.

And of course, in typical Spoons style, your pocket won’t be stretched either.

Whilst to most, this may feel like another typical Wetherspoons spot, it somehow manages to fit all the character you get with Spoons into a small venue.

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Rail buffs and historians getting up early on Sunday to see first new railway station to open for 100 years

Railway historians and fanatics will flock to a town in Essex at 7am on Sunday morning to see the first new train station on the Eastern main line for 100 years.

Beaulieu Park is the first station to open on this part of the UK network since the 1920s. And rail chiefs are expecting a huge amount of interest from trainspotters and rail buffs alike.

They are particularly pleased because the £175m station is opening four months early. The first train will pull in at 7.20am on Sunday.

And already some excited passengers have bought their tickets for the Colchester to London Liverpool St train to be part of history when it stops at the new station.

Andy Cross, 47, said: “I just want to be part of history. It will be great arriving at the first station on the Eastern mainline in such a long time. I’m sure there will be lots of photographers at Beaulieu Park to capture the moment.”

The station is part of a new super green initiative project near Chelmsford. Martin Beable, Greater Anglia’s Managing Director, said: “We are really looking forward to the opening of Beaulieu Park station, the first new station on the Great Eastern Main Line in over 100 years.

“Beaulieu Park station will benefit from a regular and reliable service of up to four trains per hour during peak times and two trains per hour during off peak periods, making rail travel simple and convenient for passengers.”

Councillor Louise McKinlay, Deputy Leader at Essex County Council, said: “Essex is pioneering the type of infrastructure-supported growth that’s on the national agenda, being bold and ambitious in our commitment to future-proofing the county and putting investment where it’s most needed.

“The new Beaulieu Park station is testament to this, and the role it will play in transforming travel in this part of Chelmsford and surrounding areas will have a positive impact for years to come.

“The progress being made to build the station is remarkable and I want to thank everyone involved for their hard work to get the project to this stage. I’m very much looking forward to the station opening.”

The new station is set to transform travel north of Chelmsford as it will eases pressure on the existing busy Chelmsford train station and reduces car journeys into the city centre.

The station is planned to be a significant addition to the Beaulieu and Channels neighbourhoods in the north of the city, which form the first phases of the new Chelmsford Garden Community.

4,350 homes already have planning permission as part of the Garden Community. This includes 1,989 new homes which have already been built, along with the Beaulieu Square Neighbourhood Centre providing local shops, community and health services.

This is in addition to the Beaulieu Park School – the first all-through primary and secondary school in Essex.

Beaulieu Park Station will provide easier and quicker access to jobs, helping the economic development of the area and encouraging further investment.

Beable added: “We expect the new station to be a very attractive and popular option for travellers from that part of Essex.”

A union secretary said they wanted to send the message that “there’s no room for more people here during the high season” and that the tax was intended as a deterrent for potential visitors

Brits planning a break in the Balearic Islands next summer have been warned they could face a tourist tax hike.

The CCOO, a major trade union on the Spanish islands, have proposed hiking the current tourist tax to €15 a day (approximately £13.08). This would affect Brits visiting holiday hotspots such as Majorca, Ibiza, and Menorca. The proposed tax would apply for stays during July and August, the busiest months on the Mediterranean islands.

The Balearic Islands already have a tourist tax in place, which is between €0.5 and €4 a day (approximately £0.44 and £3.49). The amount of tax paid depends on whether tourists visit during the peak or low season, and the type of accommodation they stay in.

Children under 16 are exempt from paying the current tourist tax, and there’s a 50% discount for longer stays, which is applied after the eighth night. According to the government of the islands, this tax is used for purposes such as sustainable tourism initiatives and preserving cultural heritage.

The proposed increase would mean a seven night break in peak season would see each adult charged approximately £91.52 in tourist taxes.

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The CCOO made clear that the higher tax being proposed wasn’t for the benefit of the islands, but rather to keep people away. According to Majorca Daily News, General Secretary José Luis García said: “This is not an increase aimed at raising revenue, but rather a deterrent, so that the Balearic Islands send a clear message to the world that there’s no room for more people here during the high season.”

He added: “To reduce summer overcrowding, it’s not enough to curb demand; we must also act on supply.”

The news outlet also reported that the CCOO is asking the government to put a hold on new tourist accommodation places, aiming to cut visitor numbers but attract higher-value tourists. Due to the housing crisis in the Balearics, they also want the island declared a “stressed area” and for 40,000 public housing properties to be created.

The move is the latest in a long line of proposals aimed at reducing the pressure of tourism on the popular Balearic Islands. Over the summer, Majorca was named the most unwelcoming spot for British tourists in Europe, with anti-tourism protests cited among the reasons for the dubious honour.

Summer 2024 and 2025 were marked with protests across the islands, but especially in Majorca, where protestors occupied beaches while waving anti-tourist banners. A number of Mirror readers revealed they’d be ditching Spain due to the protests and what they dubbed “anti-British sentiment”.

Speaking to the Mirror over the summer, Kevin Durkin who visited various Spanish destinations over 30 years said: “Over the last few years, the anti-British sentiment has just grown. Some bar owners have put up signs telling the British to keep away and some hotel owners don’t want us either.

“I do not need Spain, they can keep their latest charges and hatred of the British. I will not be back, neither will my friends or family. Adios.”

While Linda Munro revealed that overcrowding at border control at the airport had made her summer trip to Majorca stressful: “My husband and I got through the scanners, no problem. However, the rest of the family had to queue for an hour and a half.

“On the way back, it was worse, as people were worried they might miss their flights home. Our family just made it on time. They all said they wouldn’t be back abroad anytime soon.”

Have a story you want to share? Email us at [email protected].

WHEN it comes to a real-life paradise, the closest you’ll probably get to it is the Caribbean.

And there’s one destination that’s seeing more tourists than ever which is developing new hotels so visitors can enjoy the hot weather and beautiful beaches.

St Vincent and the Grenadines is the fastest-growing tourism destination in the Caribbean with 17.3 percent more visitors in the first half of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024.

Jamaica and Barbados are the Caribbean islands most visited by Brits – but St Vincent and the Grenadines has the potential to be your next holiday spot.

You can get there by flying to Argyle International Airport on St Vincent – and then, from there you can explore the 32 islands and cays.

The country’s capital is Kingstown in St Vincent, where visitors explore historical sites like Fort Charlotte and the Gothic cathedrals.

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The capital has Botanical Gardens, waterfalls, and plenty of opportunities to try out water activities like boat tours, snorkelling, and diving.

The waters have plenty of marine life like whales, dolphins, green sea turtles and lots of reef fish.

Of course being an island, St Vincent has some incredible beaches from Indian Bay, Villa Beach and Mt. Wynne Beach – which has volcanic black sand.

St Vincent is home to the country’s largest volcano called La Soufrière.

It’s active too, with the last explosive events happening in 2021.

The island has rainforests as well and visitors can hike through the Vermont Nature Trail and the Cumberland Forest Reserve.

The island country is a great for fans of the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise which was filmed across its beaches and rainforest.

It was even rumoured that St Vincent would open a theme park to honour the films.

St Vincent and the Grenadines is one of the best spots for winter sun, as throughout the whole year the temperature averages between 24-27C.

The rainy season runs from June through November, with the wettest months typically being October and November.

The island country consists of eight other inhabited islands; Young Island, Bequia, Mustique, Canouan, Union Island, Mayreau, Petit St Vincent and Palm Island.

To get to the other most popular islands, visitors can use ferries or take regional flights.

Here you’ll find white-sand beaches and plenty more swimming spots in the bright blue Caribbean sea.

To accommodate the increasing number of visitors in St Vincent and the Grenadines, there are four new projects across the islands and all are set to open by 2027.

The first is called Peter’s Hope Resort Development Project, which is a 280-room beachfront Marriott Autograph Collection hotel.

Another is the Beaches St. Vincent and the Grenadines which will be a 360-room resort focusing on families that will be built at Mt. Wynne.

The Palm Island Development is a new project with phase one scheduled to open in December 2026.

And the Cumberland Bay Resort Development Project will be a 150-room beachfront resort set to have pretty overwater bungalows, cottages, a hotel and small marina. 

Virgin Atlantic connects St. Vincent with a stopover at the neighbouring island of Barbados taking around 11 hours.

You can fly from London Heathrow to St Vincent with return fares from £574.92.

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This island in St Vincent and the Grenadines is known as ‘turtle island’…

CANOUAN sits between St Vincent and Grenada, and it’s one of the smallest measuring at three square miles and has a population of around 2,000.

Known for its abundance of turtles, tortoises and beautiful beaches, the little-known island doesn’t get many tourists, which means it’s a hotspot for celebs.

Thanks to it being lesser-known, the island of Canouan has been known to be a popular Caribbean spot for celebrities.

Due to its privacy, the likes of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, George Clooney, Leonardo DiCaprio, Robert Downey Jr., and Cindy Crawford have all been seen there.

Another reason for its popularity amongst the famous is the amount of luxury resorts there – and the fact that they all allow use of the ‘invisible key’, which means you can use facilities across all of them.

The island is known for being peaceful and quiet, but is rising in popularity amongst travellers.

It has a nickname too, Canouan is sometimes referred to as ‘Turtle Island’.

As you might have guessed this is because the island is a natural sanctuary for green sea turtles which swim off the coast.

During the months of May and October, the turtles hatch along the beach, so if you stick around until dawn, you might spot tiny hatchlings make their way from the sand to the sea.

Here’s another Caribbean island that only a few thousand Brits visit is getting a new airport – with UK flights.

Plus, Caribbean’s safest island is ‘back on map’ as 2025 holiday spot – thanks to stunning beaches and region’s longest pool.

In Tallinn, Estonia, you will find the most beautiful Christmas market in the world

Last Christmas, Life reporter Christopher Megrath opted to forgo the typical British yuletide markets and venture to a less frequented European destination steeped in history. Christopher is chuffed he did because the Old Town Christmas market in Tallinn, Estonia, was hands down the most stunning one he has ever seen.

Unlike its renowned Christmas market competitors in cities like Vienna, Cologne, or Salzburg, Tallinn’s market is humble in size. He had never heard it brought up in chats about Christmas markets, nor did he know anyone who had even set foot in the country, yet what it lacks in global recognition it more than compensates for with its captivating setting, snug atmosphere and magical allure.

The Tallinn Christmas Market is nestled in the Town Hall Square. At its heart is the Christmas tree, which holds the title of the most significant Christmas tree in Estonia and has been erected in Town Hall Square since 1441, making it the first Christmas tree ever to be showcased in Europe.

The Town Square is relatively compact – you could stroll from one side to the other in a brisk minute. Christopher managed to clock up more than an hour during his visit thanks to the plethora of stalls, live music and scrumptious food on offer.

Just like a scene out of a film, snow gently started to fall and accumulate on the ground throughout the day. The warm glow of lights draped across the square felt snug in an otherwise frosty wonderland, with the 15th-century Town Hall Tower dominating the backdrop of every snapshot, reports the Liverpool Echo.

The Christmas market has everything you could possibly want – handcrafted baubles, sweet delights like chocolate and toffee, tree ornaments and cosy winter wear like hats, scarves and gloves. As per his personal tradition, Christopher made sure to bring back a good assortment of knick-knacks for his foreign holiday memento collection, including a miniature cathedral and town hall for around €20.

You don’t have to go far for some genuine Estonian grub, as Christopher managed to get verivorst (blood sausage) without even leaving the square. Although it’s not something he would recommend, there’s a vast array of truffles, gingerbread and sweets to indulge in if you’re more inclined towards sugary treats.

After several rounds of the market in search of new finds, Christopher found myself settling on the designated sideline benches with a hot cup of glögg – the Estonian term for mulled wine. A stage was erected at the front of the square where children performed and music filled the afternoon, contributing to an already festive atmosphere.

Christopher couldn’t fathom how picture-perfect the Christmas market was until he witnessed it firsthand. The quintessential depiction of the winter experience is brought to life by Tallinn, from the scenic setting to the festive food, drink and goods available.

The gentle snowfall throughout the day felt like it could’ve been a hired actor at this point.

Moreover, once you’ve had your fill of the market, there’s a wealth of attractions in the surrounding area. You’ll find yourself amidst contemporary shopping venues and eateries, ideal for a brief respite or a return to normality.

Winding cobbled streets will guide you uphill to Tallinn’s Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, an Eastern Orthodox marvel where visitors can glimpse its breathtaking interior. The UNESCO World Heritage site is home to a plethora of hidden treasures if you’re up for the hunt, such as Maiasmokk, Tallinn’s oldest café dating back to 1864, and Pierre Chocolaterie nestled in the secluded Masters’ Courtyard.

Christopher would suggest simply losing yourself in the labyrinthine streets and secret pathways, allowing them to lead you to ancient castle walls and stunning town vistas.

If you’re on the hunt for a unique Christmas experience that still retains the holiday spirit, a trip to Tallinn’s Old Town Christmas market won’t disappoint.

Return flights to Tallinn from Manchester Airport are available for approximately £217, with a stopover in Helsinki en route. However, during his own visit, Christopher opted to stay in the Finnish capital and took a same-day return ferry to Tallinn for around €40, creating a relatively laid-back excursion that combined two holidays in one.

Hull was once mocked and named the worst place to live in the UK. However, it has now been included on the Naitonal Geographic’s best place to visit – the only UK destination to get the nod

A UK city that has long been the butt of the public’s jokes has been named one of the best places in the world to visit.

Hull has rightly been included in National Geographic’s list of ‘the best places in the world to travel to in 2026’, the only UK destination to make the list. Despite excelling itself as the country’s City of Culture in 2017, it’s fair to say Hull receives a disproportionate—and unfair—amount of jibes.

When I lived in York, which is just 37 miles away across Yorkshire, the snobbery directed towards the city of 267,000 was rife and rarely concealed. Many of the jokes came from those who had never visited Hull. Had they taken the time to hop on a train and made the hour-long journey from North to East Yorkshire, I’m sure their eyes would’ve been opened.

Back in 2003, an extremely well-publicised hardback book proclaimed Hull the UK’s most awful hellhole. The Idler Book Of Crap Towns: The 50 Worst Places To Live In The UK wrote of the town: “No matter what happens to me in later life, no matter where I live, or how bad things are, I will know that it can never, ever be as bad as living in Hull”

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Writing in National Geographic, Lorna Parkes explains quite how wrong some people are when it comes to Hull, and some of the joys that await those yet to visit.

“At the edge of the North Sea, Hull was one of the world’s busiest whaling ports in the 19th century and a fishing and shipping hub until the 20th, before falling on hard times. Over the past decade, the city has undergone significant revitalization,” she writes.

“Warehouses around Humber Street’s old waterside Fruit Market are now lively independent bars, restaurants, and art galleries. There’s also a spectacular performance amphitheatre, called Stage@TheDock, overlooking River Hull where it meets the Humber Estuary; and a former shipyard has for over 20 years been the base for The Deep, one of the United Kingdom’s most highly respected aquariums and marine conservation centres.”

There are good things on the horizon for Hull. Next year, a £40 million project to promote Hull’s maritime heritage wraps up. A network of new interpretive sites aims to bring 800 years of seafaring history to life. Among them are the Hull Maritime Museum, the North End Shipyard two-storey visitors centre, and two permanently docked museum ships: the 1960s Arctic Corsair cod trawler and the Spurn lightship.

A new Maritime Heritage Trail now winds through the city’s Georgian Old Town, which takes in new green spaces and public art inspired by the city’s ties to the sea.

The Express’s Samantha Teasdale visited Hull this summer. “Despite its notorious reputation as the ‘worst place to live’, I found myself pleasantly surprised by the charm of Hull,” she wrote.

“As I meandered through the lively streets under the warm sun, cooled by a gentle breeze, I was delighted I’d made the trip. The sight of pride flags fluttering on numerous buildings added to the allure. The streets were buzzing with chatter, but it wasn’t until I heard the popping of prosecco bottles that I realised why the area was so bustling.

“Graduates in their gowns and hats filled every pub, restaurant, and street corner. Memories of my own graduation brought a smile to my face.”

Samantha’s favourite part of the city was the marina. “There, I unearthed a treasure trove of hidden gems – quaint cafés, charming restaurants and other businesses that you wouldn’t stumble upon unless you dared to venture past the construction works,” she continued.

“Happily perched on a bench by the marina, next to the aquarium, I found myself gazing out at the sea and musing over how Hull seemed rather delightful. Could it really be such a dreadful place to reside?

“Hull has a lot to offer, and while I may not have ventured into the ‘rough parts’, I believe it’s a city that is often misunderstood and is striving to reinvent itself. I’m eager to return.”

Have a story you want to share? Email us at [email protected].

Stanton in Tewkesbury Borough, Gloucestershire, is a quintessential English village with thatched cottages, an ancient church and a stunning manor house

Stepping into Stanton in Tewkesbury Borough, Gloucestershire conjures up images of a quintessential English countryside village.

The settlement sits on the edge of the Cotswolds Hills, roughly three miles southwest of Broadway in the adjacent county of Worcestershire.

Whilst Stanton officially lies within Gloucestershire boundaries, it’s frequently mistakenly assigned to Worcestershire since Broadway serves as its postal town.

The village also neighbours Stanway, Gloucestershire, which houses the notable Stanway estate.

The Cotswold Way passes directly through the settlement, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, reports Gloucestershire Live.

Among the village’s most striking characteristics is that nearly every dwelling is constructed from traditional Cotswold stone.

The Mount pub serves as the village’s main hub, positioned at the terminus of the high street.

Pevsner described it as ‘architecturally, the most distinguished of the smaller villages in the North Cotswolds’.

Additional notable structures include St Michael’s Church, with origins tracing back to Norman times, Stanton Court (Jacobean era) and The Manor (alternatively known as “Warren House”), constructed in 1577.

The village’s heritage stretches back to the era of Kenulf, king of Mercia, who bestowed the tithes and patronage of Stanton upon Winchcombe’s Benedictine Abbey in 811.

Sir Philip Sidney Stott, an English architect, civil engineer and surveyor, is recognised for saving Stanton village from decline in 1906.

Sir Philip invested his wealth and expertise into renovating Stanton Court alongside other heritage structures. The village boasts several remarkable buildings, including Sheppey Corner.

This Grade II listed thatched cottage, constructed around 1650 and perched at the top of the High Street, is a favourite feature on Cotswolds’ calendars and postcards. Originally a large house and barn, it’s now split into three charming cottages: the Cloisters, Sheppey Cottage, and Pixie Cottage.

Cotswolds Tours recommends a visit to Stanton Court, another popular attraction. This Grade II listed Jacobean Manor House was erected for the Izod family in the early part of the 17th Century.

It later passed to their relatives, the Wynniatt family, in the early 18th Century, who expanded the house by adding a wing with a Georgian sitting room.

The Mount, aptly named, sits atop the mount at the end of the high street and serves as the village’s local pub. Its unique location offers breathtaking panoramic views across the Vale of Evesham towards the Malvern Hills.

On a clear day, you can even spot the Black Welsh mountains in the distance. It’s the perfect spot to watch the sunset on a summer’s evening, enjoy a cold beer, and have a chat with your loved ones.

A SEASIDE city in the UK has been named among the happiest in the world.

It has a world famous pier, pretty shopping streets and an enormous beach that sees millions of tourists during the summer months.

We all like to be beside the seaside, and therefore it is no surprise that, according to Time Out, Brighton is one of the happiest cities in the world.

Cities across the world were ranked on a criterion of five statements: My city makes me happy; I feel happier in my city than other places I’ve visited or lived; The people in my city seem happy; I find joy in the everyday experiences my city offers; The sense of happiness in my city has grown a lot recently.

Overall, Brighton then scored 11th place on the table and it was the only city in England to gain a spot on the list.

And it isn’t surprising, as the city has a lot to boast about including being close to London and having sprawling beaches.

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If heading from London Victoria, it takes just 58 minutes to reach Brighton on the train with an adult anytime day return usually costing £34.70.

Once there, one of the obvious spots to explore is the beach.

The pebble beach stretches far and is also where visitors can find the historic pier.

For breathtaking views, head up the BA i360 observation tower, costing £18.50 per person.

Then make sure to head to Brighton’s Grade-II listed pleasure pier, which boasts a number of fairground rides, bars and restaurants – all hovering above the sea.

It stretches a total of 525 metres and is the ideal spot to catch the sunset.

If you then stroll along the promenade, make sure to check out the Upside Down House.

Inside, there are lots of quirky photo ops and it costs between £7.45 and £14.95 to enter.

Heading into the town, make sure to explore Brighton’s art district – North Laine.

You can wander around independent shops and stop off at traditional pubs.

Often referred to as ‘the lanes’, the area is full of higgledy-piggledy alleyways and avenues.

North Laine is a top spot for coffees, pastries and second-hand shopping.

There are then also the historical lanes, to the south, which have a number of restaurants, bars and boutiques.

For those who love exploring history, visit The Royal Pavilion – a palace in the middle of the town.

This rather extravagant building is a former palace that was commissioned by King George IV.

Today, the attraction is a Grade I listed building and is known for its ornate designs inside.

It costs £19.50 per adult and £11.75 per child to visit.

There’s also the Brighton Museum & Art Gallery, which costs £9.50 to enter.

With its central gallery having just reopened following a £2million upgrade, visitors get the chance to see collections of fine art, decorative arts, fashion, and local history.

If you’re looking for a spot to grab a bite, then head to Baqueano – the number one rated restaurant in Brighton, with a full five out of five stars from more than 1,900 TripAdvisor reviews.

Though don’t expect it to be cheap – the catch of the day will set you back £28.50 and a fillet steak, £39.30.

And if you are looking to stay longer, you won’t be short of choice when it comes to hotels and accommodation.

For example, you could stay at Drakes Hotel, which is set along the seafront and is just a 10 minute walk from the beach.

Inside, the rooms are all individually designed with bespoke furniture, large TVs, tea and coffee making facilities and free wifi.

There’s even a 24-hour cocktail bar.

It costs from £134 per night to stay at the hotel.

Alternatively, for a slightly cheaper option, you could stay at the DoubleTree by Hilton Brighton Metropole costing from £95 a night.

The hotel features an indoor pool, fitness centre, onsite restaurant and even has pet friendly rooms.

Other cities on the list features Abu Dhabi securing the top spot.

Then the only other UK spot, was Glasgow, placing 20th. The city was also named the friendliest in the country, and you can read why by one local who lives there.

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The 20 happiest cities in the world in 2025

THESE are the 20 happiest cities in the world in 2025, according to Time Out.

1. Abu Dhabi, UAE
2. Medellín, Colombia
3. Cape Town, South Africa
4. Mexico City, Mexico
5. Mumbai, India
6. Beijing, China
7. Shanghai, China
8. Chicago, US
9. Seville, Spain
10. Melbourne, Australia
11. Brighton, UK
12. Porto, Portugal
13. Sydney, Australia
14. Chiang Mai, Thailand
15. Marrakech, Morocco
16. Dubai, UAE
17. Hanoi, Vietnam
18. Jakarta, Indonesia
19. Valencia, Spain
20. Glasgow, UK

If you are looking for other seaside spots to visit, there is also an English seaside town that’s better in autumn with London-worthy restaurants and new hotels.

Plus, one of the UK’s most underrated and affordable seaside cities is set for a huge £53million revamp.

If you’re looking for a warm holiday destination in January but don’t want to travel too far, then these European hotspots could be just what you’re looking for

January can be a tough month to get through. The post-Christmas slump is no fun, and there’s not much to look forward to in the gloomy months until spring.

However, it can be the perfect time for a getaway. January is often the cheapest month to visit many European destinations, and it’s usually the quietest month too, so you can enjoy days out without the crowds.

If you don’t fancy a long-haul flight, there are holiday hotspots that are closer to home, but still offer plenty of sunshine and warm days. While you won’t be enjoying scorching summer weather, these destinations will give you some respite from frosty days in the UK and have flight times clocking in around four hours.

Tenerife

Daytime highs: 21C

Flight time: from 4 hours 5 minutes

Tenerife tends to be the warmest Canary Island in January, especially in the sunnier south. It’s little surprise that it has been among the most popular winter sun destinations for years, with the sunny, mild days occasionally broken up by light rain showers. Many people visit in January to hike the lush green landscapes of Anaga Rural Park or explore the desert-like Teide National Park, while the weather is mild. Or you could simply enjoy the island’s sandy beaches and sea temperatures of around 20C.

The only downside to jetting off to Tenerife in January is that it’s the peak season for the island. The resorts are still busy and lively during the winter months. If you’re after a more tranquil getaway, consider hopping on a ferry to nearby La Gomera, which takes roughly an hour. This lesser-known Canary Island is far less developed and sees only a fraction of the visitors compared to Tenerife.

Madeira

Daytime highs: 18C

Flight time: from 3 hours 50 minutes

Just north of the Canary Islands off the coast of Morocco lies the Portuguese island of Madeira, boasting a slightly cooler, wetter climate. However, in January, you can still generally expect warm days around 18-19C and rain usually comes in brief spells.

The mild days make it the perfect time to explore the lush Madeira Botanical Garden, which remains verdant even in winter, or trek Pico do Arieiro, a three-and-a-half-hour hike offering breathtaking views of the island. Sea temperatures hover around 18-19C in January, which might be a bit chilly for some, so opt for a hotel with an outdoor heated pool if you fancy a swim.

Cyprus

Daytime highs: 18C

Flight time: from 4 hours 35 minutes

Cyprus may be a slightly longer flight, but with most UK routes clocking in at under five hours, it’s still considered a short haul. In January, the weather is typically mild and warm, boasting around six hours of sunshine daily.

The month sees about seven days of rain, usually in short bursts. The warmest part of the island is Limassol in the south, where you can bask on long stretches of sand such as St. Raphael Beach with its stunning turquoise waters.

On rainy days, visit Lemesos Castle, home to the Cyprus Medieval Museum, which displays treasures from the Byzantine period.

Malta

Daytime highs: 16C

Flight time: from 3 hours

Malta has been gaining popularity for winter sun holidays, and January is a fantastic time to wander the narrow, cobbled streets of Valletta or Mdina without having to jostle through crowds. The island has always been a favourite destination for hikers, and if you’re not fond of hiking in the heat, a visit in January offers milder days.

Give the Victoria Lines Trail a go. It takes around eight hours and runs along a former defensive wall, offering spectacular views of Malta’s north.

Algarve, Portugal

Daytime highs: 15C

Flight time: from 2 hours 55 minutes

The Algarve, nestled in the southern region of Portugal, is renowned for its sandy beaches. Although January might be a bit chilly for a dip in the sea unless you’re particularly daring, the sun-kissed coast is still worth a visit.

Expect around five to six hours of sunshine daily, with occasional brief rain showers. Take advantage of the mild weather with clifftop walks, dolphin-spotting boat trips, or wine tasting tours.

Malaga, Spain

Daytime highs: 17C

Flight time: from 2 hours 45 minutes

Boasting the shortest flight time on our list, Malaga is perfect for a long weekend getaway to escape the January blues. While most of southern Spain is a great choice for January, Malaga earns its spot as it offers both city and beach break options.

On sunny days, soak up the atmosphere at the bustling La Malagueta beach, featuring a lengthy stretch of sand and a promenade brimming with bars and restaurants. If the weather turns bad, head to the Picasso museum or find a cosy tapas bar in the stunning Mercado de Atarazanas, a historic market adorned with ornate stained glass windows.

WHEN Brits think about the best cities in the UK, the ones that come to mind are probably the likes of York, Edinburgh, Liverpool, Manchester, Brighton or London.

But according to National Geographic, one of ‘best places in the world to travel to in 2026’ is Hull – all thanks to its lively bar scene, award-winning aquarium, and completion of a huge project costing millions.

Hull, is a port city in East Yorkshire that sits on the north bank of the river Humber.

National Geographic has named it as one of the best places in the entire world to visit next year, but it’s not always been so up and coming.

For example in Hull took top spot in the book Crap Towns: The 50 Worst Places to Live in the UK back in 2003.

However, it’s set to become more popular in 2026, and National Geographic mentioned that one of the reasons why is Hull’s investment into conserving its rich maritime history.

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Hull was a very important trade route during the 13th and 14th centuries.

Thanks to this, you can see Dutch-influenced architecture buildings that line the streets of the quaint Old Town. 

Since 2020, the Maritime Museum has been undergoing a huge revamp worth £11million, but it will finally reopen to the public next year.

This has been part of a wider £27.5 million project to promote Hull’s maritime history which has gone into restoring the museum and ships.

Another reason is the city’s new leisure spots that have transformed warehouses and the old waterside Fruit Market to become bars, restaurants, and art galleries.

The publication added: “There’s also a spectacular performance amphitheater, called Stage@TheDock, overlooking River Hull where it meets the Humber Estuary.”

It continued: “And a former shipyard has for over 20 years been the base for The Deep, one of the United Kingdom’s most highly respected aquariums and marine conservation centers.”

The Deep is one of the country’s best aquariums, and the attraction is listed as one of top thing to do on Hull’s TripAdvisor.

Inside, visitors will be able to see sharks, turtles, penguins, and the UK’s only Green sawfish.

Head into the city and you’ll find the towering Hull Minster, the largest parish church in England (by floor area), it’s over 700 years old and is known to have some of the finest medieval brickwork in the country.

If visitors want to get a panoramic view of Hull, they can choose to climb the 180 steps up the spiral staircase.

It’s not just all about history, as Hull is a star of the screen having been used in the backdrop of lots of well-known TV shows and movies.

It even has its own showbiz trail called ‘It Must Be Hullywood‘, a walking route designed for tourists to see sites of their favourite shows.

And they’re big shows too like The Crown, Bodies, Enola Holmes 2 and ITV‘s Victoria starring Jenna Coleman.

Visitors to Hull can download a guide or grab a leaflet to follow the trail at their own pace.

It’s not the first time Hull has been revealed to be a city on the rise, it was even named one of Time Out’s best places to visit in 2024. In 2017, Hull was named the UK City of Culture.

Last year, Sun Travel explored Hull as part of Sun Travel’s Best of British series, and writer Hope Brotherton went to explore the city, here’s what she discovered.

For shopping, Hope suggested heading to Humber Street which used to be lined with fruit and veg traders but now has cool independent clothing and homeware shops, an art gallery and some of the city’s trendiest restaurants.

When it comes to things to do, head to Dinostar, an interactive dinosaur museum designed specifically for inquisitive kids where there’s everything from yrannosaurus Rex skull to Triceratops bones.

Other stops include the William Wilberforce House Museum and the Hull & East Riding Museum of Archaeology.

Hull has plenty of pubs and in 2023 was crowned the UK’s cheapest place for beers last year – some of Hope’s favourite included The Minerva pub and the Lion and Key.

The city is also rightfully proud of their Hearth Restaurant & Bakery, which is even listed in the Michelin Guide. 

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After spending a weekend in the city, Hope said: “From its maritime history to its free walking tours and other cultural attractions, Hull has it all for a great weekend break.

After 48 hours in the city, I could see why the locals I met are so proud to come from Hull – I would be, too.”

National Geographic’s ‘best places in the world to travel to in 2026’…

The Dolomites, Milan, Italy

Québec, Canada

Beijing, China

Dominica

Rabat, Morocco

Hull, Yorkshire, England

North Dakota Badlands, U.S.

Manila, Philippines

Black Sea Coast, Türkiye

Khiva, Uzbekistan

Akagera National Park, Rwanda, East Africa

Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada

Yamagata Prefecture, Japan

Route 66: Oklahoma, U.S.

Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, Australia

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Oulu, Finland

South Korea

Guimarães, Portugal

Basque Country, Spain

Maui, Hawaii, U.S.

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, U.S.

Coastal Oaxaca (Costa Chica), Mexico

Fiji

Medellín, Colombia

Banff, Canada

Broadway has been dubbed the ‘Jewel of the Cotswolds’ thanks to its charming architecture and uncrowded streets. Here’s everything you need to know

The ‘Jewel of the Cotswolds ‘, a village in Worcestershire, has been lauded for its “beautiful” and “unspoilt” charm.

Broadway, particularly popular during the summer, is being promoted as an ideal spot to visit during the colder months, offering a unique winter allure. In fact, BBC’s Countryfile named it one of the top winter holiday destinations in the UK.

Situated beneath Fish Hill and just a two-hour drive from central London, Broadway invites visitors to leisurely stroll along its high street, taking in the local pubs, shops and cafes before venturing into the Cotswold hills.

Tourists can appreciate the historic buildings lining the high street before exploring some of the village’s attractions. The Design Museum, housed in Gordon Russell’s original grade-listed workshop, showcases the work of the renowned furniture designer.

According to the village’s official website, other notable creatives linked to the area include William Morris, John Singer Sargent, and Mary Anderson, reports Gloucestershire Live.

A key attraction is the Broadway Tower, nestled within a 50-acre parkland estate. It provides stunning views over the landscape, and on a clear day, visitors can see across 16 counties.

Additionally, the Broadway Museum and Art Gallery, situated in a charming 17th-century building, offers guests the opportunity to delve into the village’s intriguing history.

Animal enthusiasts will find the Cotswold Farm Park just a 20-minute drive away from Broadway.

Visitors can get up close with over 50 rare breeds, cuddle chicks or pet rabbits, providing an excellent family outing.

Holiday-makers have showered the village with glowing reviews, praising its picturesque architecture and range of attractions.

One guest shared on TripAdvisor: “Just beautiful, lots of shops and places to eat and drink. Best visited out of season so you can appreciate the buildings and old world charm.”

Another said: “The Broadway High Street just oozes Cotswold charm. It has a village green and is lined with historic buildings and honey-coloured houses with thatched roofs. Many of the houses were built in the 17th century, and some of the buildings, like the Abbot’s Grange and the Prior’s Manse, date back to medieval times.”

A third described Broadway as a “beautiful village”, noting: “Other Villages around aren’t a patch on this place. Plenty of shops to visit, pubs, restaurants, tea rooms.”

Meanwhile, another said: “Amazing Village in the Cotswolds. Been coming here for years when nearby. There is something for everyone and a very dog friendly place. Lovely food places and never struggled with parking.”

Booking your holiday on a specific day could actually make your trip cheaper when compared to the rest of the week – and it’s good news for those who want short breaks

There’s a lot to think about when it comes to booking a holiday. Once you’ve chosen where you’d like to go, you have to consider what time of year you’d like to travel, how long you want to go for, and whether you want an all-inclusive resort holiday or want to get out and experience a new culture.

But what you might not have considered before is the exact day of the week you want to fly out. Most people will either pick the start of the week if they’ve taken time off from work, or will opt to travel on the weekend in order to squeeze a couple of extra days out of their trip.

According to one travel expert, however, travelling on specific days of the week could actually make your holiday cheaper or more expensive – and it’s not always a good idea to avoid the weekends.

A holiday expert named Rob, who is an insider for On The Beach, shared a TikTok video in which he looked through the On The Beach data for 2026 holidays and found that some days of the week are cheaper to travel on.

He stipulated that the data he looked at was specifically for couples’ holidays in 2026, but said that “it goes to show that picking the right date can save you a lot of money”.

Rob ran through the days of the week, starting with the most expensive day to travel – Wednesday.

Explaining why this is, he said: “It’s probably because midweek flights are packed with business travellers, so that pushes the price up, especially on short-haul flights. So that’s your baseline, and one to avoid if you can.”

Next, saving just 1% in comparison to Wednesday, is Tuesday, and the third most expensive day to travel is Saturday. Sunday is marginally cheaper as the middle day on the list, coming in at the fourth cheapest and fourth most expensive.

Speaking about Sunday, Rob said: “Sunday gives you about a 5% saving versus Wednesday. Not to be sniffed at, 5% can be a big difference. Hotels love a Sunday check-in, [as there are] quieter lobbies and fewer crowds, and often, because of this, [there are] lower rates. Plus, you skip the weekend airport chaos.”

The third cheapest day to travel is actually a Monday, as Rob said people “tend to hate the idea” of travelling on a Monday on a psychological level, as it reminds people of going to work.

Second place went to Thursday, as you miss out on the weekend rush, but coming in first place, and saving a whopping 13% compared to those travelling on Wednesday, is actually Friday.

While travelling on a Friday might seem like it would be expensive because it’s so popular, Rob said that’s actually why it’s cheap – as there are more flights and more package deals available.

He said: “There are more flights. Airlines put on more leisure routes because there’s more demand, which means prices get driven down. It’s also the day most hotels want you to check in, meaning more package deals, more discounts, and overall better value.”

Rob ended his video by stating that his data is “foolproof” and booking a holiday on a Friday won’t always work out cheaper, but it’s certainly worth a look if you’re planning a holiday for 2026.