TRAVEL

TWO HISTORIC Palm Houses that are home to hundreds of rare plants have reopened following an ambitious revamp.

The buildings that are almost 200-years-old are part of the Royal Botanic Garden in Edinburgh, but were forced to close for five years to repair leaks and rust.

Plans were first drawn up to upgrade the two Palm Houses in 2017 – but it wasn’t until 2021 when they closed, and then in 2022 the restoration began.

As of October 2, they are now open to the public once again after extensive work costing £23.5million, as reported by The Times.

During the works, more than five thousand panes of glass were replaced, and the ironwork that had been corroding has been repaired and repainted.

The stone work was renovated and a wall that once separated the two houses has been knocked down.

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Around 800 rare plants like palms, conifers, ferns and begonias were temporarily moved during the restoration work – luckily the majority of them survived.

However, one 200-year-old Sabal palm tree had grown too tall for the glass house and couldn’t be saved.

But some of its seedlings have been kept.

The oldest of the two Palm Houses is the Tropical Palm House which was first built in 1834 and was the tallest traditional palm house in the UK at the time.

The second is the Temperate Palm House which was built in 1858 and still remains as one of the tallest traditional palm houses in the world.

Talking to the BBC, David Knott, the director of horticulture at the Botanic Garde, said: “For many people in Edinburgh and throughout Scotland and throughout the world, the palm houses in Edinburgh really are one of the most iconic features of the Botanic Garden here.”

The Royal Botanic Garden in Edinburgh is one of the most popular attractions in Scotland and won a Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Award.

One visitor said on Tripadvisor: “Absolutely beautiful gardens and a fantastic place to spend a few hours in Edinburgh.

“Everything was incredibly well maintained, with good paths, easy-to-follow maps and plenty of interesting and informative exhibitions along the way.”

Another called it a ‘must-do’ in Edinburgh with a third saying it’s the ‘best place for a walk’ in the city.

For those who want to visit the Royal Botanic Garden, tickets for adults cost £5.50, children age 15 and under go free, and concessions cost £4.70.

For Young Scot card holders and those on Universal/Pension Credit, entry is £1.

Two residents of the village of Bibury, Gloucestershire, are taking matters into their own hands after becoming fed up with a change in tourists’ behaviour after the Covid-19 pandemic

A couple who live in one of the UK’s most beautiful villages, located in the Cotswolds, have announced their plans to leave after a major change in the area following the Covid-19 pandemic.

Brian and Jill Skarda have decided to leave the village of Bibury, Gloucestershire, a place named “the most beautiful village in England” by William Morris, due to the worsening behaviour of visitors.

Brian and Jill originally moved to Bibury, which was also branded the “world’s most beautiful village” by Forbes last year, that lies along the River Coln, from Barnsley. During their time in the area, they joined the parish council and became part of everyday life.

Writing in the Village Life magazine in a column known as Tales from the Riverbank, Mr Skarda admitted “we have had enough invasive tourism”.

Mr Skarda, who highlighted Arlington Row as a key point of issue, explained that he felt tourists are now getting too up close and personal with locals, so much so they had been finding it harder to go about their own lives.

He explained: “We have decided that we have had enough invasive tourism in Arlington Row…We have been here for over 14 years and noticed that since Covid, visitor behaviours have changed.

“They have become more inconsiderate and the sheer numbers of tourists …meant that, on occasions, we have virtually been unable to get out of our front door.”

In the latter part of his column, the Independent reported that Mr Skarda said he hoped that Bibury would one day “resolve its tourism issues” after complaining the area was being “ruined by the very people who come to see it”.

When it comes to Bibury, Mr Skarda isn’t the only person to have taken issue with the seasonal influx of tourists.

Speaking to the Independent, parish council chairman Craig Chapman said overtourism was having an impact on the local environment too.

He added: “Over the summer with the hot weather, people would not just sit on the river bank but would go in the water and even bring chairs in to sit on to cool down.

“The main concern is the wildlife, but also the whole area with people using it like it is a recreational area. When they go into the water they can upset the habitat.”

So great are the concerns about the impact on Bibury’s environment that last month, they announced they were going to put up fences around the river to stop people paddling in it.

Mr Skarda’s and Mr Chapman’s remarks about the village comes as debate grows about the impact of overtourism in places like Bibury and Castle Combe.

Every year, thousands of people from all over the world and the UK flock to these aesthetically pleasing places, many of which they have seen in films, to admire them.

Whilst these visits can be good for the local economy, locals are often caught in the crossfire.

Officials said today ‘don’t try to smuggle them across the border in your luggage’

A new warning has been issued for anyone bringing food into the UK from the EU – even if it was bought at the airport. In an update today the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs issued an alert for anyone going to Eurpean hotspots like Spain, France, Greece and Italy this half term.

An outbreak of disease on the continent means that a number of foood items are banned – and there is a high chance anyone buying a sandwich, or bringing back produce will infringe the laws. Since last April, those arriving risk having goods seized at UK borders and may face penalties reaching as much as £5,000.

In a new post on X today DEFRA said: “Meat and dairy products from the EU can spread animal diseases. Stay faithful to our biosecurity and don’t try to smuggle them across the border in your luggage.” It’s against the law for travellers entering Great Britain from any EU country to carry items including sandwiches, cheese, cured meats, raw meats, or milk. Therefore, picking up a sandwich at a Spanish airport and taking it into the UK could get you into trouble.

Officials have confirmed that the new rules, which came into force last year, continue to apply as the holiday season gets underway with the start of June. The current legislation states that anyone discovered importing banned products such as sandwiches, cheese, cured meats, raw meats, or milk into Great Britain will face enforcement measures at customs.

These measures have been put in place following a foot and mouth disease outbreak affecting Europe. In a recent development, those travelling to Greece have been alerted to a newly identified outbreak in the country. This recent information confirms that the prohibition on all food products – including duty free purchases – will continue for an extended period.

Border officers will be on the lookout for illegal food products, with offenders given the option of handing over their items or having them seized and disposed of. Officials warn that “In serious cases, those found with these items run the risk of incurring fines of up to £5,000 in England.”

As confirmed cases of foot and mouth disease (FMD) continue to increase across Europe, the UK Government has introduced bans aimed at halting its spread.

The restrictions, intended to protect domestic animal health, farmers’ livelihoods and UK food security, prohibit the personal importation of meat and dairy products from cows, sheep, goats and pigs originating from the EU, reports Wales Online.

Authorities have confirmed that Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) presents no danger to humans, and there are currently no recorded cases within the UK. Nevertheless, it remains a highly contagious viral illness affecting cattle, sheep, pigs and other cloven-hoofed animals, including wild boar, deer, llamas and alpacas.

Labour MP Ben Goldsborough has questioned whether adequate steps are being taken to inform the public through a parliamentary written question. He asked Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Secretary Emma Reynolds: “If she will make an assessment of the potential merits of funding public awareness campaigns, including advertisements at airports and ports, on (a) foot and mouth disease and (b) African swine fever.”

DEFRA minister Dame Angela Eagle detailed the extensive actions recently taken to publicise the ban: “Biosecurity is a priority for this Government. To protect UK farmers and animals from serious diseases like Foot and Mouth Disease and African Swine Fever, we used the Christmas period as an opportunity to remind the public about the personal imports ban on travellers from the EU and EEA countries bringing dairy and meat products to GB, that came into force last year.”

She further stated: “This included promoting awareness of the rules to the travelling public and extending our reach through partnership channels across Government and with industry. Our insights survey results indicate that over 90% of respondents are aware that they should not bring back meat and dairy products from these countries.”

Dame Angela added: “Any decisions on funding paid campaigns will be made based on the current threat level, evidence of effectiveness and available resources, ensuring maximum impact in protecting UK biosecurity.”

The outbreak on the continent represents a considerable threat to farming businesses and livestock. FMD can trigger significant economic losses through reduced production in affected animals, as well as restricted access to overseas markets for livestock, meat and dairy products.

Following confirmed outbreaks of FMD in Germany, Hungary, Slovakia and Austria earlier this year, the Government has already prohibited personal imports of cattle, sheep and other ruminants, pig meat and dairy products from those nations.

The new measures apply exclusively to travellers entering Great Britain, and will not be enforced on personal imports arriving from Northern Ireland, Jersey, Guernsey or the Isle of Man. Speaking at the launch, Farming Minister Daniel Zeichner said: “This government will do whatever it takes to protect British farmers from foot and mouth. That is why we are further strengthening protections by introducing restrictions on personal meat and dairy imports to prevent the spread of the disease and protect Britain’s food security.”

Restrictions on meat, dairy and animal products for human consumption

You cannot bring in any of the following:

• cheese, milk and dairy products like butter and yoghurt
• pork
• beef
• lamb
• mutton
• goat
• venison
• other products made from these meats, for example sausages

You can bring the following into Great Britain from any country without any restrictions:

• bread, but not sandwiches filled with meat or dairy products
• cakes without fresh cream
• biscuits
• chocolate and confectionery, but not those made with a lot of unprocessed dairy ingredients
• pasta and noodles, but not if mixed or filled with meat or meat products
• packaged soup, stocks and flavourings
• processed and packaged plant products, such as packaged salads and frozen plant material
• food supplements containing small amounts of an animal product, such as fish oil capsules

Dr Jorge Martin-Almagro, UK Deputy Chief Veterinary Officer for international and trade affairs, issued a stark warning: “Following the detection of foot and mouth disease in EU countries resulting in a rising risk of introduction into Great Britain, we have extended restrictions on the personal imports of food products that pose a risk in FMD transmission.”

He went on to emphasise the Government’s preparedness, adding: “Robust contingency plans are already in place to manage the risk of this disease to protect farmers and Britain’s food security. This biosecurity measure combined with all others we have implemented are critical to limit the risk of FMD incursion. I would urge livestock keepers to continue exercising the utmost vigilance for signs of disease, ensure scrupulous biosecurity is maintained and to report any suspicion of disease immediately to the Animal and Plant Health Agency.”

Nevertheless, Dr Martin-Almagro points out that certain exceptions to these restrictions do exist, explaining: “A limited set of exemptions from these rules in place. For example, a limited amount of infant milk, medical foods and certain composite products like chocolate, confectionery, bread, cakes, biscuits and pasta continue to be allowed.”

For further details click here.

AUTUMN and winter family holidays in the UK are a gamble – you could get glorious sunshine and plenty of fresh air, or be stuck inside playing board games on repeat thanks to nonstop rain. 

But there’s one chain of seaside resorts boasting such an array of indoor and outdoor activities, it barely matters what the weather is. 

Butlin’s has so many indoor activities that you could fill an entire three days without spending any time outdoors. 

A school mum and I took our families on the all inclusive break earlier this year, after one too many staycations were marred by huge downpours – and were blown away by the offering (not the wind).

Butlin’s is really hard to get your head around if you haven’t been before – for starters, it’s SO cheap. Well… it is if you go for the cheapest accommodation. 

Their base rates start from £49 for four nights for a family of four during October half term at their Minehead site, for example – that’s an astonishing £12.25pp per holiday. 

But that’s in their cheapest comfort rooms, which don’t have a kitchen – the cheapest accommodation with a kitchen is £69 in the comfort apartments, and the prices go all the way up to £502 if you’re in the fancier bayside apartments. 

At their Skegness site, where we stayed, accommodation over half term ranges from £122 in their standard rooms, up to £515 in the Maple Walk Premium Lodges and £791 in the platinum plus caravans.

We stayed in the Maple Walk lodges that first opened in 2024. The high-end, three-bedroom property featured a sleek kitchen, outdoor decking and a wood- panelled master bedroom. 

Maple Walk has its own entrance and even housekeeping, signalling a big departure from Butlin’s main, affordable offering.

But it doesn’t matter where you book – the activities included in the price are the same. 

That includes the indoor waterparks, the West-End-style shows and entertainment like wrestling, the Skypark outdoor playparks, the soft plays and certain arts and crafts sessions. 

Then if you book during a particular holiday, the resorts often host plenty of extra themed activities for free – for example, at October half term they have free fireworks displays, silent discos and pumpkin carving. 

The sites have tons of paid-for activities you can sign up to as well, like laser quest, the fairground, bowling, go-karting, climbing and aerial adventure courses. 

The value you get out of a four-night break when factoring in the activities is astonishing. 

Let’s say for instance, you went to one of their shows every evening of your stay  – for a decent seat at a West End production of a similar standard to the Butlin’s Masked Singer Live show, you’d be looking at around £40pp minimum, while WWE live show tickets cost from £40pp to £150pp for regular arena seats. 

If we’re conservative, that’s £120pp for three nights of quality shows already. 

And these are top quality performances. The year-round pantomime is so hilarious it had me slapping my thigh, and the Animals and Mythical Beasts production brought tears to my son’s eyes.

The star of the shows for us, however, was the Maximum Pro Wrestling, which included a star turn from one of the celebrity hosts, Jeff Brazier. 

Then you have the free soft play – at between £5 and £12 per child across the UK, it’s free at Butlin’s and entry to the water park – which typically costs between £15 to £26pp at decent-sized venues in Britain.   

Book yourself into both of those twice over the course of your stay and that averages around £47pp, rising up to £167pp for the value of the free entertainment on offer when you factor in the cost of the shows.  

That’s before you add in any of the paid-for activities. During our three-night stay, we played mini golf and laser quest, spent far too many pound coins in the arcade, enjoyed arts and crafts and went to the fun fair. 

If you’re planning on going all out on the food and drink, their relatively new all inclusive bundles are great value too. 

We opted for the all-inclusive dining and drinks packages. The Premium Dining package costs £33.95 an adult and £19.50 a child (age six to 14) per day, and covers a buffet breakfast and a buffet dinner. 

These are full of choice, with Indian, Chinese, roast dinners, cheeseboards, burgers, soft serve and far more on offer for dinner.

At breakfast, there was everything from a Full English (with a fantastic veggie selection), made to order toasted sandwiches and omelettes, cereals, pastries fruit and pancakes.  

The drinks package starts from an extra £25.95 an adult per day and £10.50 a child, which includes unlimited booze, soft drinks and Costa coffee.

If you think you’ll get through more than four pints of Madri beer at £6.10 each, or five glasses of house wine at £5.60 each, over the course of the afternoon and evening then it’s well worth shelling out for.  

The resorts also have new self-serve bars for the first time too, with beers, ciders, cocktails, spirits and mixers and soft drinks.

If you don’t want to gorge at the buffet like we did every night, the DineAround package includes a buffet breakfast and then you can pick from the other on-site dining options for a two-course lunch or dinner. 

This could be pub grub at The Beachcomber Inn or classic American diner-style food. Or you can simply pay as you go or cook in your accommodation. 

Prices for all inclusive get even cheaper during termtime, midweek breaks, with all-inclusive food and drink bundles on Showtime Breaks starting from £28 per person, per night for a family of four.

So if you’re paying £39 for a comfort room that sleeps up to 6 people on a midweek break, that’s a further £312.12 for the premium dining and drinks plan – working out at £351.12 in total or £22pp a night for accommodation, activities, and all inclusive food and drink.

It’s almost hard to argue against going out for food at those kinds of prices…

BRITS heading to or from one major European airport on Friday are set for travel chaos.

Strikes at Brussels Airport in Belgium, are set to cancel around 140 flights on October 9 as ground handling staff walk out.

The strike will be nationwide with the ground handling company Alyzia joining the walkout.

Alyzia provides ground handling services including baggage processing and passenger aircraft ground support for around 20 airlines at the airport.

These include Brussels Airlines – the airport’s main carrier – as well as ITA Airways, Air Arabia and United Airlines.

For passengers flying with these airlines, delays and cancellations may occur.

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However, if you are due to fly with the likes of Ryanair, easyJet, Wizz Air or British Airways – ground handling for these airlines is carried out by another provider at the airport.

The strike action comes as workers protest against governmental policies.

Public transport is also expected to be disrupted in Brussels.

Unfortunately, as this strike is outside of the airline’s control it will be deemed an ‘extraordinary circumstance’, which means if your flight is cancelled you will not be entitled to compensation.

However, airlines do still have a duty of care to passengers.

This means that they should rebook or refund your flight free of charge as well as provide you with food and drink, as well as accommodation if required.

NEW passport rules are being rolled out across the UK which will make travelling MUCH quicker.

The government recently announced its new scheme where passengers arriving into the UK will be able to pass through e-gates without scanning their passport.

It has now opened up to passengers returning to the UK via East Midlands airport – the first to use the system.

The government has said that in its testing, the new contactless system is up to 25 per cent faster than current e-gates.

It will work by passengers having their photo taken at the e-gate – it’s checked by the system, verified against immigration, travel and passport information.

Essentially it takes away the need to both have a picture taken and scan the passport.

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Once the checks are complete, the e-gates will open automatically.

If there is a need for further checks, then passengers will need to place their passport on the reader – or they could be asked to see a Border Force officer.

Passengers should still keep their passport with them at all times.

At the moment, the contactless system will be for British citizens only, but will eventually be able to be used by other nationalities.

It’s set to be in place at all airports across the UK by early 2027.

Phil Douglas, Director General of Border Force, said: “This is a win for travellers coming to our brilliant country.

“By using state-of-the-art technology, we are making journeys smoother and faster, all while fully maintaining the UK’s robust border security.

“Our digital transformation also builds on our work this summer to extend eGates to children aged eight and above, making life a little easier for families.”

In the Cairngorms national park, the bracken is changing from dark green to russet and umber. Birch leaves are lined with gold, while the Scots pines remain proudly green. Autumn is arriving with a little sigh of relief here, after a summer few will forget.

The wildfire that began near Glenmore and Abernethy on 15 July burned more than 33 sq km (13 sq miles) of moorland and forest. More than 500 firefighters were involved; homes and businesses were evacuated; and the emergency response lasted over a month. Visiting now, it’s hard to see, or even imagine, the damage. Much of the burned area is high on the hill and far from the roads. It’s a huge loss but, in a national park stretching 4,528 sq km (1,748 sq miles), surprisingly easy to miss.

I have come with a gravel bike to retest new bikepacking routes with Kees Wouters and Yannick Ferbeek from Legendary Rides, which offers self-guided tours, and Bikepacking Scotland founder Markus Stitz, who helped develop the routes.

I arrive in Aviemore from Edinburgh on an electric Ember bus, which allows bikes to be booked on board, a welcome development in Scottish public transport. Soon I’m heading out of town through heather and Scots pines, my bike bags stuffed with everything I need for the next few days.

The original route would have taken us through Glenmore, past Loch Morlich and Ryvoan bothy, but there are still path closures. Instead, we take a new line towards Nethy Bridge. Sunlight falls through birch and rowan and the track is soft with pine needles. At Loch Garten, where ospreys nest in spring and summer, it is hard to imagine the smoke and helicopters of July.

Graham Niven lives in Nethy Bridge with his wife, Amy, and runs the self-catering business Arbor Nethy beside the forest. He joined the local volunteer firefighting effort coordinated by the RSPB, part of a huge community response. “We see the forest as an extension of our home,” Graham says. The Abernethy forest is ecologically rich, filled with ancient Caledonian pine trees that are hundreds of years old. “It’s a unique and special habitat, and it’s very fragile. We were all just grieving for the forest,” he tells me.

The news cycle has long moved on, but locals are still dealing with the effects of the wildfire. “Only in the last few weeks have we been able to look back on it as something that’s come to an end,” Graham says. Peat smouldered underground for months, meaning firefighters had to keep returning to hotspots.

While business has largely returned to usual, Graham has noticed a dip in bookings for photography workshops and holiday lets. “What is less measurable is people’s confidence in booking or coming back. The buzzwords were ‘apocalyptic fire’ and Abernethy and Nethy Bridge, Cairngorms, and that does stick in people’s minds. People think of Abernethy and say: ‘Oh, it’s been burned down.’ I think it’s less than 10% of the old forest affected.” Nearby, Polly Cameron at The Dell of Abernethy has seen the same effect: “Bookings wise, we certainly experienced a dip, and October has still been much slower to fill.” That matters in a landscape where tourism is a vital part of the local economy.

We ride on along the Speyside Way, following the river through woods and farmland. Then the landscape opens. The Cairngorms change character as you head east: deep forests give way to sheep, grouse moors, abandoned crofts and long gravel roads. This is whisky country too, and we ride through the grounds of Glenlivet Distillery. It’s after hours, or the smell of malted barley would have tempted me to stop.

By late afternoon the hills have turned heather-purple. We started late and by the time we reach Hotel Square in Tomintoul, darkness has settled. Our bikes go into a storage room and, happily, hot curry and cold beer are still available.

The next day is shorter but steeper, taking us on to sections of the old military roads built in the 18th century after the Jacobite risings. I’m reminded of that history later at Corgarff, a white fortress on the crest of a hill. Built in the 16th century and later converted into a barracks, it was used to suppress Jacobite sympathisers and, later, the illicit whisky trade.

We spend the second night at Cairngorm Bothies, off-grid cabins surrounded by Scots pines. In each, there’s a little nature journal and I leaf through pages of children’s handwriting with tales of red squirrels and deer. When the rain starts, any disappointment about missing out on seeing the dark skies is replaced by relief not to be camping.

With a flexible route we stop often, for photos, snacks and whenever the fancy takes us. We walk through woodland to visit Burn O’Vat, a huge glacial pothole in the Muir of Dinnet national nature reserve. At Ballater we stop for coffee and morning rolls at The Bothy while one of our group gets a quick bike repair. The route is deliberately forgiving, and Legendary Rides provides shorter alternatives for challenging weather or tired legs, with prebooked accommodation, a personalised plan, GPX routes and WhatsApp support. “It allows you to relax and just enjoy the ride,” says Yannick.

From Ballater we wind towards Loch Muick, through the Balmoral estate. After a long, winding ascent over Capel Mounth the riding becomes rougher, with a rocky descent. The gentle undulating roads that follow to Glen Clova are a welcome contrast as we roll to Alyth.

I’ve visited the Cairngorms region often in the past, but this trip broadens my awareness of the diversity of landscapes it holds. To mountain peaks and forest trails I add river valleys, whisky country, high moorland, farmland and roads so empty that the only sound is the freewheel of a bicycle.

But this is not untouched wilderness. We cross private estates managed for deer stalking and grouse shooting, as well as national nature reserves. Debates over the right ways to manage this land span centuries, with wildfire prevention now a key part of that conversation. Scotland’s right to responsible access allows us to pass through this landscape, provided we leave no trace, close gates and avoid disturbing livestock and wildlife.

Autumn is an ideal time for this kind of journey. The midges have retreated, the roads are emptier and there is still plenty of golden light in the days. Cycling through the area helps to support local cafes, shops and accommodation providers, and there’s never been a better time to do so. “We want people to know we’re still here, we’re still awesome,” says Graham.

My tired legs power me to a final Pitlochry cafe stop before my Ember bus back to Edinburgh.

The trip was provided by Legendary Rides and Bikepacking Scotland. Legendary Rides offers four-day bikepacking trips from £759pp, including detailed route planning, accommodation, breakfast and personal support via WhatsApp

Mum of two Hannah Britt shares her top tips for family road trip success, from choosing the right sized rental car to arming yourself with equipment-free games. Bon voyage!

Planning a successful road trip with children requires smart packing, strategic timing, and easy entertainment to keep everyone happy. And as a mum of two young children, I’ve got it down to a fine art. This summer we hired a car with Sixt and drove through the south of France, often for long periods at a time. But armed with a bit of knowhow, it was child’s play for all the family. Here’s how it’s done…

Pack the essentials

• Mess-free snacks: Pack dry foods like crackers or popcorn in separate plastic containers or use silicone cupcake liners for easy, spill-proof portions.
• Plenty of wipes: Bring an abundance of antibacterial wipes and tissues for sticky fingers and unexpected juice spills.
• Comfortable clothes: Dress children in soft, loose, and easy-to-wash clothes or let them travel in pyjamas if you leave early or late.
• First-aid and emergency gear: Keep sickness bags, a small first-aid kit with child-friendly medicine like Calpol, and bin bags for daily rubbish within easy reach.

Keep kids entertained

• Activity bags: Give each child a small bag filled with rotating toys, colouring books, or magnetic games, and allow them to explore each one at a time.
• Audio and music: Create a shared family playlist or queue up engaging audiobooks and children’s podcasts to pass the hours.
• Screens with headphones: Download movies or games onto tablets ahead of time and pack backup chargers and headphones for each child.

Manage the journey

• Time drives with sleep: Depart right before nap times or early in the evening so young children sleep through a major portion of the drive.
• Plan active stops: Stop every two to three hours at parks, playgrounds, or open fields so kids can run around and burn off extra energy.
• Pre-emptive breaks: Pull over for a toilet break whenever you approach a service station, even if nobody asks yet.

Game time

• 20 Questions: One person thinks of a secret person, place, or thing. Everyone else takes turns asking up to 20 yes-or-no questions to guess the answer.
• I Spy: One player says, “I spy with my little eye something beginning with…” and names a letter of an object seen inside or outside the car. The others guess the object.
• The Animal Name Game: The first player names an animal. The next player names a new animal that starts with the last letter of the previous animal (for example: lion ends in N, so the next player says newt).
• I’m Going on a Picnic: The leader states an item they are bringing on a picnic based on a secret rule (like starting with the letters of the alphabet in order, or items that spell their name). Other players guess items to figure out the rule.
• Rainbow Cars: Players look out the windows and spot cars matching the colours of the rainbow in order—from red and orange through pink.
• The Alphabet Game: Passengers look at roadside signs, billboards, and license plates to find every letter of the alphabet in order from A to Z.
• License Plate Game: Work together or compete to spot license plates from different regions, states, or countries.

Choose the right car for the family

Choosing the right hire car depends on matching vehicle categories to your passenger count, luggage volume, and driving environment. Because rental companies assign vehicle classes rather than exact makes or models, focus on size segments and practical constraints. For our road trip through France, I chose a BMW X5, which was roomy enough for all of us – plus a mountain of luggage. And snacks.

Small and economy cars

• Best for: Solo travellers or couples on city breaks with light luggage.
• Capacity: 1–2 adults, 1 small cabin bag.
• Pros: Highly fuel-efficient and simple to park on narrow streets.
• Cons: Very limited boot space and minimal highway power.

Compact and intermediate (hatchbacks etc)

• Best for: Small families or longer road trips balancing comfort and versatility.
• Capacity: 2–4 adults, 2–3 medium bags.
• Pros: Better highway stability and easier fuel economy than large vehicles.
• Cons: Tight rear seating for three adults on extended journeys.

SUVs & full-size estates

• Best for: Rural touring, mountainous terrain, or bulky gear.
• Capacity: 4–5 adults, robust luggage capacity.
• Pros: Elevated driving position and generous cargo room.
• Cons: Difficult navigation and parking in tight historic European garages.

People carriers & MPVs

• Best for: Large families or groups travelling together.
• Capacity: 6–9 passengers.
• Pros: Maximum seating flexibility and vast interior volume.
• Cons: Height restrictions in underground parking and high fuel consumption; note that using all seats in a 7-seater often eliminates boot space.

*For more information about Sixt, see HERE

It’s an annual fall tradition that Disneyland increase its prices — and stealthily in the night. Starting Tuesday, guests will pay more to experience the Happiest Place on Earth.

But the increases are relatively light. For the eighth year in a row, Disneyland did not raise the cost of the lowest-priced ticket, which is $104. And its highest-priced ticket, which is $224, also did not change. The increases were felt primarily on mid-level tiers for single-day, single-park tickets, and were limited to $5 apiece.

Other prices also remain unchanged. The cost of Disneyland’s popular annual pass program, the Magic Key, did not increase. The top-tiered Magic Keys have been subject to hefty yearly spikes over the last decade. Parking remains fixed at $40, and multiday tickets have not been affected.

Collectively, this is one of the smallest overall increases made by the Disneyland Resort in recent history, as last year, its highest-priced single-day ticket jumped in cost $18. At a time when leisure costs are rising and forcing Americans to stay home, it comes as somewhat of a relief that Disneyland is not asking its fans to pony up substantially more cash to get through the gates.

While the Walt Disney Co. provided no official statement on the increases, Disneyland Resort officials noted in an email that it is aware guests are more closely watching their wallets in 2026. Thomas Mazloum, chairman of Disney Experiences, in a comment given to CNN, said, “Our goal is to put guests at the center of our decision making, and that starts by listening to them. That matters more now when families are watching every dollar, and we see it in the choices they make every day — in how they plan, in how far ahead.”

It’s also an indication that, at least for the time being, the Disneyland Resort has pushed its prices as far as they can go. Disneyland is blessed with an in-demand product, but every commodity has its limits.

In May, the Walt Disney Co. reported a 1% decline in attendance at its U.S.-based parks compared with the prior year, which the company attributed to “continued softness” in international visitors. In August, however, Disney bounced back, and noted, especially at Florida’s Walt Disney World, that attendance had perked up. Overall, visitation at its U.S.-based theme parks was 3% higher than in the previous year’s third quarter, the company said. This boost was largely attributed to a variety of summer deals.

As someone who is at Disneyland nearly every week, I can report that summer crowds were relatively manageable. There have been some asterisks, such as the World Cup and high heat, both likely keeping guests away, but anecdotally, Disneyland crowding hasn’t been nearly as extreme this year. I simply believe that people do not currently have the excess funds that they once had.

And Disney seems to be responding to the economic climate, especially in making it easier for its biggest fans to visit the resort. In conjunction with the price increases, Disneyland President Jill Estorino announced Tuesday that the company would be removing its no-show penalty on annual passholders. Additionally, passholders can now cancel their reservations up to 11:59 p.m. on the day of their reservations.

These are welcome changes, as previously guests were allowed three no-show penalties before their ability to make reservations was restricted, and had to cancel the night before. But plans change, and the reservation system restrictions, initially put in place to manage crowding during the COVID-19 pandemic, had increasingly felt like an impediment. While reservations are still required, which Disneyland has stated helps the resort plan its crowd-forecasting and staffing, the system is more lax and user-friendly than it has been.

Digging deeper into Disneyland’s pricing, there have been some small changes elsewhere. The cost of the line-skipping feature Lightning Lane, which can fluctuate based on crowding levels, now has a top price of $38, an increase of $1. And the park-hopper add-on for single-day tickets, which can also fluctuate, increased $5-$10, depending on the day. And earlier this year Disneyland did increase its prices on a number of food items.

The Disneyland Resort, to be sure, is not cheap. In the world of entertainment, it remains a luxury good on par with postseason Dodgers tickets (albeit with cheaper parking than Dodger Stadium). But I credit the Disneyland Resort for reading the cultural room. Pulling the plug on its recent steady and hefty price increases, especially on annual passes, shows the company can occasionally listen to its audience as much as it does Wall Street. Sure, a price decrease would be nice, but we don’t live in a fantasyland.

This week in SoCal theme parks

The Disneyland Resort has added new collectible pin trading vending machines.

(Todd Martens / Los Angeles Times)

• Attention Disneyland pin traders! The Disneyland Resort has added a new pin line available in select vending machines throughout the property— look for them in San Fransokyo Square and Pixar Pier in Disney California Adventure and at the Star Wars Trading Post in Downtown Disney. Each pin is $18, and one buy gets you one egg-like orb with a mystery pin. There are 15 in the set — I got Simba, as seen above — and offerings include park staples such as the Hatbox Ghost as well as classic characters such as Princess Aurora and Dumbo. Some are marked limited edition — “chasers,” in Disney pin trading speak — so be on the lookout. Thanks to Mr. Daps for the heads-up.
• A Disneyland ticket deal. With life constantly getting more expensive (see above), it’s a good time to hunt for a deal. If you’re a Costco member, reports are that there’s a pretty good one happening right now. Valid through Dec. 18, Costco is said to be selling a two-day Disneyland park hopper ticket with the line-skipping feature Lightning Lane already added in for $329.99. The offer includes a $60 dining card, and works out to a savings of a couple hundred. Disney Tourist Blog has more details on the limited deal.
• An applaudable energy project. Six Flags Magic Mountain has announced the completion of its solar carport project, the largest solar carport in California. Covering 4,315 parking spaces, the project was designed to offset 100% of the energy consumption of Magic Mountain and Hurricane Harbor (while also providing some shade and sun protection for its parked cars). The project is interconnected with the Southern California Edison grid, meaning excess energy may be exported as well as allowing the parks to draw energy from the project when needed. The carport also offers 109 electric vehicle charging stations.
• A pause at Castle Park. Riverside’s long-standing Castle Park is beginning the creation of what it says is a“reimagined experience.” As such, on Nov. 1 its Ride Park will halt operations for the foreseeable future. “We’re taking the time to plan the right rebuild and will share updates as plans take shape,” the company says in an FAQ on its site. Its mini golf and arcade areas will continue to welcome guests.

More on the noise issues around the ‘Fast & Furious’ coaster

Riders on Universal’s new Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift.

(Ronaldo Bolanos / Los Angeles Times)

There will be no shortage of updates and news on Universal’s new Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift coaster in the coming weeks, months and maybe even years, especially as the attraction continues todraw the ire of the park’s neighbors in Toluca Lake. Universal Studios Hollywood held a meeting with nearby residents on its studio lot last Wednesday. The session was closed to the media but was said to attract more than 350 neighbors. I spoke with a number of residents, as well as Universal, after the session, and indications are that the two sides still haven’t settled on a compromise. The issue, of course, stems from the sound of rider screams from the coaster drifting into the residential area.

Universal has promised, through the end of the year, to not begin operating the coaster before 9 a.m., and has also, in response to community feedback, installed a new sound barrier featuring an additional 1,900 square feet of sound absorbing material. The new barrier includes a sail that’s about 63 feet tall and 31 feet wide. But residents I spoke to feel it’s not yet enough. I’ve heard many stories from neighbors in recent weeks regarding the disruption caused to their lives. They range in extremes. A neighbor without air conditioning says they can no longer open their windows. A resident who offers meditation services from their home says their business is now potentially forever impacted. A teen was unable to complete a SAT prep test due to the incessant screaming. Many report insomnia from the rise in anxiety levels. There’s plenty more.

The meeting was said to grow contentious near its end. Residents provided data on how the effects of noise, specifically screams, can cause stress-related responses. Universal is said to have discussed the challenges in further mitigating the sound. County supervisor Kathryn Barger was in attendance and is calling for additional communication between the two sides. “The meeting’s dialogue made clear that the lives of surrounding residents are being impacted and disrupted,” Barger said via a statement. “I respect Universal’s decision to host this forum and listen to the concerns being raised. I encourage all stakeholders to maintain an ongoing honest dialogue.”

Tell us your stories. Ask us your questions.

Have a theme park tale to share? Whether it was a good day or less-than-perfect day, I would love to hear about it. Have a question? A tip? A fun photo from the parks to share? Email me at todd.martens@latimes.com. I may feature your note in an upcoming newsletter.

Ride on,

Todd Martens

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NOT a lot beats the feeling of having that first pint on holiday – but it would taste even better if it was a fraction of the cost too.

Jet2 has found the cheapest holiday destinations for a beer where the average pint costs less than £3.

At the very top of the list for cheapest pints is Tunisia, which comes in at £1.27 – this is £3.74 less than that of the UK where an average pint stands at £5.01.

From the UK, Tunisia is around three hours away and it’s a great autumn and winter sun option for Brits too as in October temperatures can reach 25C.

In November, temperatures in Tunisia can be as high as 20C and even in December it can be 16C – at that time in UK, highs only reach 8C.

Return flights in December can be as cheap as £48 too.

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The most popular spots in Tunisia include Hammamet which is known for its long sandy shores and Sousse, a lively resort town.

On a recent trip to Tunisia, Head of Sun Travel Lisa Minot explored the island off the coast called Djerba.

Lisa said: “Relatively undiscovered by us Brits, Djerba is a great-value option for those looking to explore beyond the Med favourites.

“Sizzling in summer, temperatures remain high all the way through to November and rarely dip below the 20Cs, even in the depths of winter, making it ideal for out-of-season sunshine.”

Jet2Holidays has a break to the 3-star Les Orangers Beach Resort which is seven-nights all-inclusive departing from Manchester on May 25 2027 from £839pp.

The resort has an outdoor pool with lots of activities and it’s close to a sandy beach and Hammamet’s Old Town.

The next spot is shared by Bulgaria and the Czech Republic which both have an average beer cost of £1.74.

Bulgaria has everything you need for a great holiday from vibrant cities like Sofia to coastal resorts like Sunny Beach, Golden Sands and Albena.

One-way flights to Sofia can be as little as £14 – and returns can cost under £30.

Czech Republic is the perfect city break for Brits thanks to being two hours away and it has one-way flights from £17.

The city’s capital of Prague is filled with history with a huge Cathedral , old town squares and beer culture – which is easier to get involved with when pints cost less than £2.

3-star Comfort Hotel Prague City East, 3 nights bed and breakfast departing from Leeds Bradford on November 2, 2026 from £497pp.

The American-style hotel has a huge lobby and restaurant area – and the nearest tram shops is right outside the entrance.

Other top spots include Hungary which has an average beer price of £2.08.

The capital, Budapest, is also known for having lots of thermal baths – it has 123 natural hot springs and 50 thermal bathhouses.

Coming in fifth on the list is Portugal where beer is an average of £2.14 per pint.

Brits can easily head to the Algarve, known for its beautiful beaches, or the Silver Coast which is much less crowded but still has an incredible coastline.

David Hills, Chief Customer Officer at Jet2, said: “We know that value matters to our customers, and that doesn’t just mean getting a great deal when booking their holiday. It’s about how far their spending money goes once they arrive too.

“With destinations including Portugal, Spain, Turkey and Croatia offering beers for considerably less than the UK average, there are plenty of places where customers can enjoy some sunshine or a city break and make their holiday money stretch that little bit further.”

Here are the 10 destinations where your beer money goes further…

1. Tunisia – average beer £1.27

2. Bulgaria – average beer £1.74

3. Czech Republic – average beer £1.74

4. Hungary – average beer £2.08

5. Portugal – average beer £2.14

6. Montenegro – average beer £2.39

7. Spain – average beer £2.56

8. Turkey – average beer £2.77

9. Poland – average beer £2.92

10. Croatia – average beer £2.99

NO signal, no all-you-can-eat buffet and your bed is next to hundreds of shipping containers – it’s certainly not your average cruise.

Yet this didn’t stop passenger Pieter Stroop Van Renen from shelling out £850 to travel for a week on board the shipping boat.

Pieter, 59,said he was stunned to realise you could pay to travel onboard the ships that are usually for cargo rather than leisure.

Talking to The Sun, he said he jumped at the chance to go on one and loved the idea of being the “only passenger onboard.”

Paying around €1,000 (£848) to travel aboard the Elbcarrier, the 140m-long vessel sailing was from Rotterdam to Dublin and back again.

It’s safe to say that the ship is the opposite of a luxury liner – there’s no infinity pool, no cocktail-fuelled small talk with fellow tourists and no breakfast buffet.

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The first major difference from a commercial cruise was before the journey even began – as nobody could tell Pieter exactly when the ship would leave.

Even in the week before his holiday, he did not know whether he would depart on the Friday, Saturday or Sunday.

Pieter eventually boarded the Elbcarrier at 4pm on Saturday – but the ship did not set sail until 12 hours later, at four in the morning.

As he waited, confined to his cabin while loading was completed, the reality of spending several days aboard a working cargo ship began to sink in.

Peter said: “I thought, will I get bored, or will I get seasick, or what happens there? Where can I walk? Who are these guys, and do they know I’m coming?”

But that wasn’t a problem for Pieter, who instead spent hours on the bridge watching the captain and officers navigate, studying the ship’s radar screens, chatting to the crew and touring the engine room.

Pieter continued: “The bridge was beautiful at night. They keep the lights off, so it’s pitch black outside and all you can see are the navigation lights and the equipment glowing in the darkness. It was magical.”

At the invitation of the captain, Pieter had one of the best seats in the house as the vessel headed out towards the North Sea.

The journey to Dublin usually takes at least 48 hours by sea, but Pieter’s crossing lasted around 52 hours.

Pieter also couldn’t wander about as he pleased on deck – passengers aren’t allowed to walk between the stacks of containers, which can tower four or five containers high.

Pieter explained: “If something happens [and one falls], then you’re crushed and you’re dead.”

Mealtimes gave him another taste of life aboard a working ship.

Pieter’s ticket included three hot meals a day – there were fried eggs for breakfast and hearty dinners of meat and vegetables in the evening.

What Pieter had not prepared for was getting peckish between meals – but luckily the captain sold chocolate bars and cans of beer.

Sleeping was another challenge altogether because while daytime conditions were relatively calm, it’s a different story at night.

Pieter explained: “You’re just rolling in your bed from left to right continuously. I didn’t get seasick. But I didn’t sleep at all at night.”

He warned that anyone particularly prone to seasickness should think carefully before following his lead – especially as there’s no getting off the boat for excursions like on a usual cruise.

Anyone expecting to spend the voyage scrolling TikTok will also be disappointed as on the Irish Sea, there’s no connection whatsoever.

Pieter had to wait until he was back on dry land before posting about his experience on social media – where clips from the trip unexpectedly took off.

While the internet is impressed with his thirst for adventure, his family, however, were less enthusiastic about joining him on board a working ship.

He said: “I couldn’t get them to come. They would never do this. So, time for myself.”

To see more of Pieter’s container ship holiday, head here.

A HUGE UK train station is set to close for even more days – and it hits right by Christmas.

Huddersfield Station has only just reopened after a 16-day closure, which is part of a £70million upgrade.

The works date back to 2023, as the station is hoping to become fully electric by 2023.

And it has since been announced that it will close for another six days from this weekend, followed by more than a month in January 2027.

Transpennine Route Upgrade confirmed the following weekends would see the station closed in 2026:

• October 10
• October 11
• November 14
• November 15
• December 13
• December 20

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The December closures will affect the two Sundays before Christmas, so travellers are being warned to plan ahead.

This will then follow a huge 38-day closure from Christmas Eve (December 24, 2026) to January 31, 2027.

Liam O’Shaughnessy, TRU programme delivery lead for Northern, said: “The work that has been completed over the last 16 days in the Huddersfield area is another crucial step towards delivering the benefits that the Transpennine Route Upgrade will bring for customers across the north.

“We have worked closely with our industry partners to keep customers on the move, and these works have continued, and we would like to thank customers and local communities for their patience and cooperation, whilst these improvement works have been taking place.”

Upgrades include two new track lines through Huddersfield, restoration of the station’s roof and platforms, as well as upgrades at Deighton Station, and nearby road upgrades.

The station dates back to 1850, and named one of the most beautiful by Lonely Planet.

Now, it welcomes 3.1million passengers a year with routes across Yorkshire.

The station was even famously home to a cat, Felix.

Previously having a Sunday Times bestselling biography, he passed away in 2023.

A UK holiday park has revealed its huge multi-million pound upgrade – and will be its largest in history.

Thurston Manor is less than an hour from Edinburgh, and has stays for as little as £18 per night.

Along with its cosy caravans and lodges, there are some very exciting additions coming its way.

The park has announced it is undergoing a huge £4million upgrade with work starting this November.

One of the largest upgrades will be to its existing indoor swimming pool which will be expanded to become 18-metres long.

It will also add a new toddler splash area, designed specifically for little children – and for adults, there will be a new jacuzzi, steam room and sauna.

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The pre-existing gym facilities will also be upgraded.

Its entertainment complex is set to be revamped too with new activities and facilities both indoors and outdoors.

Outside will be a new pirate-themed 9-hole adventure golf course, giant chess and lots of things to do like table tennis, curling – and it will install a padel court.

Inside will be a new soft play area with an upgraded games arcade including interactive darts.

The Hunter’s Bar and Restaurant is being refurbished, and will have a brand-new sports bar, as well as a transformed showbar where there will be entertainment for guests.

A new outdoor terrace will be a new spot that guests can enjoy throughout the year with open-air seating through the summer and covered for when the weather doesn’t play ball.

For those wanting sweet treats, there will also be a brand-new ice cream parlour. 

When it comes to accommodation, holiday homes and pitches will be added to the site too.

Currently, guests can stay in basic caravans, to luxury lodges including The Hideout and The Hideaway which have outdoor decks and lots of inside space.

Work is due to start in November of this year with a Grand Opening event planned for Easter 2027.

For those who want to book a break that coincides with the new additions, three-night breaks on April 23 start from £219 – or £18.25pppn.

With this break, a family of four can stay in an Essential Clover Caravan which has two bedrooms (one double, one twin), kitchen and living area.

Simon Lane, CEO of Verdant Parks, said: “This is an incredibly exciting time for Verdant Parks, our employees, our owners and our holidaymakers.

“We’re committing our biggest investment to date to Thurston Manor Holiday Park and completely transforming what guests can see, do and experience when they visit.

“From the extended swimming pool and new toddler splash area to the new padel court, pirate-themed adventure golf and transformed entertainment offering, there will be something for everyone to enjoy. 

“We’re delighted to reveal our plans for the next chapter of Thurston Manor and we can’t wait to share more details and sneak peeks as the transformation takes shape over the next six months.”

NEW rules are being rolled out for Ryanair passengers next month.

From November 10, the budget airline will close its check in desk much earlier.

Rather than closing 40 minutes before a flight, it will now close 60 minutes before a flight.

Ryanair claims this is to allow passengers “more time to get through security”.

This comes after a summer of chaos due to the new biometric EES checks which resulted in three-hour queues and even missed flights.

The new rules will of course only apply to passengers checking in a bag or suitcase.

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Anyone travelling with just hand luggage won’t be affected.

The airline claims this is as many as 80 per cent of passengers who don’t ever have checked bags.

But anyone who likes to rock up to their flight and still check a suitcase at the last minute will be in for a shock.

Ryanair CMO, Dara Brady, said: “This will allow these 20% of our customers (who check in a bag) more time to clear through airport security and passport queues, and get to their departure gate on-time, especially during busy travel periods when some of these airport queues can be longer.”

More self-check in machines have since been rolled out as well in a bid to speed up the process.

Last year, the airline scrapped printed boarding passes and now requires all passengers to use mobile ones instead.

WITH between 1,000 and 1,500 beaches in the UK, knowing which ones are a ‘must- see’ can be a hard feat.

Fortunately, the best beaches in the UK have just been revealed in perfect time for your next beach trip.

The list compiled by Condé Nast Traveller ranks the beaches from reader ratings.

Here’s the full rundown of the 15 best beaches in the UK:

15. Whitby Beach, North Yorkshire, England

Scoring 73 out of 100, the Blue Flag Whitby Beach in North Yorkshire features a long stretch of golden sand as well as lots of rock pools to explore.

The famous Whitby Abbey also overlooks the beach from the cliffs that surround the sand.

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The spot is particularly loved for paddling thanks to its shallow waters and that it has lifeguards in the summer season.

There are parking and toilets close to the beach.

14. Rhossili Bay, Gower Peninsula, Wales

Over in Wales, scoring a slightly higher 74.73, the three-mile- long Rhossili Bay beach often sits on Wales’ top 10 beaches list.

It has even previously been described as the ‘supermodel of British Beaches’ by The Independent.

The beach is ideal for having a picnic or heading into the water for a surf.

You can also visit Worms Head, where you may see seals basking in the water below.

13. Luskentyre Beach, Isle of Harris, Outer Hebrides

Scoring 75.56, Luskentyre Beach on the Isle of Harris in Scotland came in at 13th place.

Luskentyre Beach features rolling dunes, turquoise waters and miles of white shell sand.

What makes the spot even more special is that it is often visited by free-roaming white Highland ponies.

There is a small car park not too far from the beach.

12. Bournemouth Beach, Dorset, England

Bournemouth Beach managed to score slightly higher, securing 75.83 out of 100.

The beach is a great family-friendly spot as it is known as one of the safest beaches in the UK, with lifeguards based at the beach between April and September.

Between April and the end of October there is also a land train that runs along the promenade.

For a small charge, you can hop on it between Bournemouth Pier and either Boscombe Pier or Branksome Chine.

11. Barafundle Bay, Pembrokeshire, Wales

Just missing out on the top 10 is Barafundle Bay in Wales, scoring 76.67.

This golden beach is backed by dunes covered with long grass and pine trees.

According to Visit Pembrokeshire, it is even often compared to a Caribbean beach.

It is worth noting though that the beach has no facilities and is a half- mile walk over cliffs from the closest car park.

10. Woolacombe Beach, North Devon, England

Taking 10th place with a score of 78.48 is Woolacombe Beach in North Devon.

Often ranked among the best beaches in the UK, Woolacombe Beach stretches for three miles and is known for its golden sand and great surfing conditions.

It is great for a family day out as well, with large car parks close to the beach, public toilets, shops and restaurants.

Travel Reporter Cyann Fielding, who has visited the beach several times, said: “Woolacombe Beach is so big you will always find a spot in the sun to relax but make sure to go for a swim too as the water has shallow entry making it ideal for paddling with the little ones.”

9. Durdle Door Beach, Dorset, England

Scoring 80, Durdle Door Beach – home to the famous landmark – came in at ninth.

The beach sits on the Jurassic Coast which is made of natural limestone.

Along the shingle beach you will find limestone caves too, though you cannot enter them.

It is also worth noting that there is a steep 15-to-20-minute walk from the car park to the beach including more than 140 steps.

8. Porthmeor Beach, St Ives, Cornwall, England

Porthmeor Beach is next up, scoring 82 overall.

The pale yellow, soft- sand beach is backed by the picturesque buildings.

The beach is ideal for surfing as well as a swim when the wind is calmer – and there are several rock pools ideal for the little ones wanting to investigate.

For a nice walk, the beach sits on the South West Coast Path, so there’s plenty to see.

7. Porthcurno Beach, West Cornwall, England

Another Cornish beach – Porthcurno Beach – came in seventh place with a score of 83.11.

Boasting soft white sand, the beach is ideal for families with little kids as there is a stream down one side of the beach ideal for splashing and paddling in.

Thanks to a towering headland around the beach, it is quite sheltered from the wind too.

From the beach, you can also head off on a walk to other coves or even to Treryn Dinas – a headland home to a fort dating back to the Iron Age.

6. Newborough Beach, Anglesey, Wales

Just missing out on the top five with a score of 83.33 is Newborough Beach in Wales.

This golden beach stretches for 3.5 miles and is backed by Newborough Forest.

The beach is also known for its connections to Llanddwyn Island – a tidal island with a striking lighthouse.

You can walk to the island at low tide and see views across the sea.

5. West Wittering Beach, West Sussex, England

Coming in fifth place is West Wittering Beach in West Sussex with a score of 85.

The Blue Flag beach has views across the Solent to the Isle of Wight.

When at the beach, there are multiple watersports activities to try out including windsurfing, kitesurfing and stand-up paddleboarding.

Or go on a walk across East Head, which is a National Trust-owned sand dune next to the beach known for its wildlife.

4. Tenby South Beach, Pembrokeshire, Wales

In fourth place is Tenby South Beach in Wales, with a score of 88.67.

The family-friendly beach stretches between Penally and Castle Beach with views of Caldey and St Margaret’s Islands.

The beach is also popular with gentler watersports, thanks to calm waters.

There is also a car park and a cafe at the beach.

3. Perranporth Beach, St Agnes, Cornwall, England

Scoring 93.33, Perranporth Beach in Cornwall came in third place.

This Cornish gem is loved for both swimming and surfing, as well as snorkelling.

And it is accessible, making it great for visiting with little ones.

When the tide heads out, you can walk to Ligger Point which is around two miles.

2.Camusdarach Beach, West Highlands, Scotland

Coming in second place and just missing out on the top spot is Camusdarach beach in Scotland with a score of 95.13.

Camusdarach Beach boasts white shell sand and also has crystal- clear turquoise waters.

From the beach you are also able to see the islands of Rum, Eigg, Muck, and Skye.

From the car park, it is only a three-to-five minute walk to the beach.

1. Llanddwyn Beach, Anglesey, Wales

The 3.5-mile beach that then came out on top as the best in the country is Llanddwyn Beach in Wales, scoring 96.67.

With views over Eryri National Park, Llanddwyn Beach has large sand dunes and soft sand.

At the western end of the beach is a tidal peninsula with Twr Mawr lighthouse, old pilots’ cottages and the ruins of a 16th- century church.

At low tide you can cross to the island and explore the buildings.

Though if you want to spend your time on the beach, there is still plenty to see and do with the spot being a prime location for windsurfing and kitesurfing.

AN island in the UK is soon to close for the season – and won’t reopen until next year.

Ulva is home to just 16 people – but saw an ‘unprecedented’ increase in visitors over the summer thanks to its beautiful landscape, wildlife, and a new TV show.

Found in the Inner Hebrides of Scotland, you can only reach it via a small passenger ferry from the Isle of Mull which has daily crossings.

However, Ulva will close to visitors completely on October 31.

The island is open seasonally with people able to visit between Easter and the October – however it did have a change in its schedule this year.

Ulva saw a surge of popularity after the airing of a BBC series called Banjo and Ro’s Grand Island Hotel.

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The show followed interior designer Banjo Beale and his husband Ro Christopher who are in the process of redeveloping a stately manor into a boutique hotel – which is set to open next year.

As a result, the island became significantly busier during spring and summer.

The Ulva Ferry team said: “If you’ve visited us already this year, you’ll have noticed how much busier things have been.”

It added: “None of us could have predicted how significant the increase in the numbers of visitors would be.”

Due to the sudden demand, the ferry announced it would close on Sundays over the summer to give islanders “the chance to recharge.”

Banjo and Ro already run The Boathouse on Ulva, a restaurant where visitors can pick up a coffee or local fish dishes.

The island is car-free island with cliffs, moorlands, woodland as well as quiet beaches and bays.

Talking to Sun Travel about the island, Banjo described it as “another world” thanks to its beautiful landscape, and there’s plenty of wildlife to spot too.

Banjo told us: “We’ve got otters, dolphins and seals swimming by, and one ferry you can take from Ulva is called Turus Mara which goes to the Treshnish Isles, it’s home to puffins.

“Often we go there for a puffin picnic just to sit with them, that’s one of our favourite things to do.

“There are more cows than people too so you’re likely to see a lot of them. And you’ve got a great chance of seeing the Northern Lights when the sun goes down.”

MINI bars at your seat, fancy amenity kits and the ‘world’s biggest business class’ – British Airways’ latest announcement is transforming the way Brits will fly with the flag carrier.

The airline’s huge new upgrades are part of the A380 retrofit programme.

Set to cost millions, it will see new seats in every single cabin, including in World Traveller – economy – and its premium economy, World Traveller Plus.

It will also have what they are calling the world’s biggest business class as well, with 106 Club Suite seats which will be on the upper deck.

This is alongside 12 seats in First, 84 in World Traveller Plus and 215 in World Traveller.

The new amenity kits have been rolled out as well – First Class passengers will get bags designed by Swaine with Wildsmith toiletries, and Business Class will get unique patterned bags with anatome products.

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First passengers will be getting a few other upgrades as well.

This includes new pyjamas with a bespoke tartan pattern design, along with slippers and blankets.

A built in mini bar will also mean First passengers can get their own snacks without having to go to the galley, with chocolates, mints and even electrolytes.

A new dining experience will include onboard Bollinger, and a wide cocktail menu. Even racks of lamb and grilled salmon will be on the menu.

British Airways boss Sean Doyle said: “This is a major milestone for British Airways and the future of our A380 fleet, marking one of the most significant transformations we’ve ever undertaken on any aircraft.

‘We’ve completely reimagined the customer experience, introducing new and updated seats in every cabin, all carefully considered to deliver greater comfort and an elevated customer experience.

“From redesigned interiors and upgraded dining to new amenities and service delivery, every detail has been thoughtfully designed with our customers front and centre, helping them to have a more seamless and memorable experience when they fly with us.”

Off the plane, new airport lounges are also being introduced.

A new lounge at Heathrow Terminal 5 C will open by the end of 2028, while the Heathrow Arrivals lounge is being redesigned.

Lounges across the US including Boston, Newark and San Francisco are being updated, along with Geneva.

Advice has also been given on other changes

Brits are being urged to check their passports before travelling, with a new rule now in effect.

Experts said the changes highlighted the risk of simple travel document mistakes. They have explained the rule change and given advice on wider passport checks to make before travelling.

From September 28, passengers travelling on Irish Ferries’ Dublin-Holyhead and Rosslare-Pembroke routes, in both directions, are required to present a valid passport or Irish passport card before boarding. But new research from Saga Travel Insurance suggests many Brits could still be caught out by basic passport and travel document rules.

It said 16% admitted they didn’t know when their passport expires, with a 8% currently holding an expired passport. Further, 10% had less than a year remaining on their passport and one in 14 (7%) had previously been denied entry to a country because they didn’t have enough time left on their passport.

Saga said there was also widespread confusion around post-Brexit travel rules, with half (50%) of holidaymakers saying they were not confident they understood the visa and travel requirements for visiting Europe.

Michelle Cooper, director of Travel Insurance at Saga, said: “Nobody should have their holidays ruined because of a simple passport error. A few quick checks can help people avoid unnecessary stress, unexpected costs and disruption at the airport.”

The travel insurance provider surveyed 500 people in the UK and found that Brits could be at risk of avoidable disruption when travelling overseas due to simple oversights.

The passport rules catching Brits out after Brexit

Half (50%) of holidaymakers are still not confident they understand the visa and travel requirements for visiting Europe after Brexit, the survey found.

Michelle said: “If you’re travelling to Europe for an extended period, you may now be required to apply for a new visa type. Travellers can spend up to 90 days in the Schengen area within any rolling 180‐day period, but it’s not as simple as it sounds.

“The 180 days are counted backwards from each day you’re in the EU or a Schengen country, so every trip adds up. That means even frequent short breaks can push you over the limit without realising.

“If you go beyond 90 days, you could face fines or even a ban from re-entering. Anyone planning to stay longer will need to apply for the new Schengen Visa.”

What is the Schengen area?

The Schengen area is a group of 29 European countries where travellers can move between countries without routine passport checks. It includes popular holiday destinations such as France, Spain, Italy, Greece and Portugal.

Confusion around the ‘10-year passport rule’ is the most widely discussed passport concern online, according to the analysis from Saga Travel Insurance, with Reddit discussions on the issue amassing 35,417 upvotes.

Michelle explained: “EU and Schengen countries require passports to be less than 10 years old on the day of entry. While all new passports last exactly ten years, passports issued before 2018 remain valid for 10 years and nine months. If you have an older passport, make sure you check both the issue date and expiry date before travelling to avoid problems at the border.”

Brits warned over new ETIAS travel checks for Europe

From late 2026, British travellers visiting most European countries will need to apply for a new European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) before travelling. The new system is similar to the UK’s Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme and will apply to visa-exempt travellers visiting 30 European countries for short stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

Michelle said: “Travellers may not realise that visiting Europe will soon involve an additional pre-travel authorisation step. From late 2026, British holidaymakers will need to apply for ETIAS approval before travelling to many popular European destinations.

“The authorisation will be linked directly to your passport, meaning travellers could be denied boarding if their ETIAS details don’t match their travel document or if the authorisation has expired. Most ETIAS applications are expected to be processed within minutes, but it could take longer if additional checks are required. Holidaymakers should apply well in advance of departure to avoid last-minute disruptions.

“Similar systems already exist elsewhere. For example, UK travellers visiting the United States must apply for an Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) before departure. These systems are becoming more common globally, so it’s important to check requirements for each destination well ahead of travel.

“As with passport validity rules, people are responsible for making sure they have the correct travel authorisation before they leave the country. If someone is unable to travel because they failed to obtain valid ETIAS or ESTA approval, travel insurance is unlikely to cover costs associated with denied boarding or cancelled trips.”

A TRAIN station is set to return to the centre of a tiny UK village after more than 100 years. 

Work has started on bringing the station back following a “major breakthrough” on issues that delayed the scheme.

Villagers in Cheadle, Stockport, last had the use of a train station in 1917, when it was located near to the high street.

Since then, residents have been forced to use public transport and cars when travelling to nearby areas, including Manchester city centre.

Stockport Metropolitan Borough Council said concerns that other trains on the rail network might be delayed had stalled progress of the scheme.

However, in what has been described as a “hugely significant” move, council officials said work had now started on bringing back the station, which will be built near The Alexandra Hospital.

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Funding for the station was approved in 2022, with planning permission granted in 2023, but concerns over timetabling led to delays. 

In a statement, Cllr Mark Roberts, leader of Stockport Council, said: “This is a hugely significant moment for Cheadle and for Stockport.

“For years we’ve fought for this station because we know the difference it will make to residents, businesses and the future prosperity of the area.

“Cheadle Station has always been about improving connections, creating opportunities and making it easier for people to travel for work, education and leisure and I am delighted that the highways work can now start on site later this month thanks to the persistence and partnership of all involved.”

Services are expected to run from Cheadle into Stockport town, Manchester Piccadilly and Chester. 

It remains unclear when the station will open to the public.

Many of us own one of these common colours for a suitcase but it is worth following simple advice that will stop any problems from arising

Ryanair continues to grow, with the airline carrying a record 208.4 million passengers in its latest full financial year – a four per cent increase on the previous year. However, the budget airline has also been cutting back at some European airports, with Ryanair withdrawing or reducing flights in certain locations.

The airline has pointed to factors including aviation taxes and airport charges. Despite this, the UK remains a key part of Ryanair’s expansion plans.

Its winter 2026 schedule includes 435 routes, with three new services from London Stansted and a new route between London Luton and Venice. A further 18 new routes have also been added from other UK airports.

As Brits gear up to the October half term holidays and winter, Ryanair has issued a warning to passengers who typically fly with black, navy or grey suitcases, urging them to ‘change’ their luggage to avoid any confusion when they land.

The budget carrier advised travellers to make their checked-in bags more distinctive on the carousel given the prevalence of these colours.

What Ryanair says

As reports the Express, Ryanair said: “Make it easier to spot your checked-in luggage on the carousel, especially if your luggage is black, navy or grey (like 99.9 percent of the population). Add a colourful luggage tag or ribbon to the handle so that there’s no confusion on arrival.”

Ryanair also recommends passengers create copies of their passport, driving licence, and/or ID card and email them to themselves.

It’s also suggested to photograph these documents and store them on your phone for offline access at your destination,

The well-known budget carrier transports an impressive 52 million passengers to and from the UK annually with its fleet of 107 UK-based aircraft.

In June, Ryanair experienced a spike in passenger numbers with 19.3 million people opting to fly with them across one of their 106,000 flights. This marked the first occasion the airline transported more than 19 million travellers and an 11 per cent rise compared to June 2023.

The airline also pulled out all the stops for England fans during the Three Lions’ Euro 2024 run, laying on over 1,500 extra seats to and from Berlin for the cup final.

On a separate note, if you’re on the hunt for stylish cabin bags and suitcases, Antler is well worth a look. Their Iconic Stripe Case, retailing at £175, is available in seven gorgeous colours, including mist blue.

Few pubs boast a more idyllic setting. As I emerge from the woods after a 15-mile hike, The Bridges, on the banks of the Onny River, in the rolling south Shropshire hills, glistens in the late afternoon sun. Inside it’s all wooden beams, with light streaming through stained glass and huge bunches of homegrown flowers adding splashes of colour. There’s time for a pint before general manager Sam Thompson shows me to my room in the recently converted stables.

I’m here exploring part of the 185-mile (297km) Shropshire Way, on a two-day Heart of the Hills hike – one of the county tourist board’s new Rail-Ready Short Breaks. Designed for people who don’t have time to tackle the whole route, the itineraries focus on loops that are easy to access by train, with illustrated PDF downloads, GPX files, accommodation suggestions and highlights of what to do along the way. My route will take me from Shrewsbury to Bishop’s Castle via Ratlinghope – about 27 miles, perfect for a weekend.

Shrewsbury itself is worth lingering in – the historic market town is crammed with independent shops and restaurants (I loved Csons for its creative small plates) and impressive Tudor architecture. But I’m most intrigued to learn that beavers have been reintroduced here by the council and the Shropshire Wildlife Trust. The first kit in the county in 400 years was born late last year and the Trust’s Tom Freeland shows me around the site, the Old River Bed nature reserve, just two miles north of the town centre. A boardwalk crossing wetlands allows an up-close view of the rewilding project. Although we don’t spy the elusive creatures (we see heron and plenty of moorhen), there’s still lots to learn. “It’s been a great success in inspiring the community to find out more about our local wildlife,” says Tom. Nature talks and guided tours of the beaver enclosure are in the pipeline, too.

Back at my base, the 16th-century Lion + Pheasant townhouse hotel, I dine on pan-roasted trout in the beamed restaurant (there’s a popular wine and tapas bar on site too) and the next morning set off to walk the first leg to Ratlinghope. Crossing the River Severn, the city soon peters out and quiet country lanes lead to Lyth Hill Country Park where expansive views open up across Shropshire.

It’s a steady climb to Wilderley Hill, past fields of rape, bright patches of yellow in a sea of green, and I stop under an oak tree to picnic. There’s no one around, just the songs of wren and chaffinch filling the air. The landscape changes on the approach to Ratlinghope as the route traces a brook, crosses wooden bridges and winds through pretty woodland. Just off the path lies the 12th-century St Margaret’s Church, the burial place of 19th-century farmer Richard Munslow, the last known “sin-eater”, whose job it was to eat bread and drink ale over corpses to absorb their sins.

I enjoy a drink instead in the pretty beer garden at The Bridges. The seven immaculate, minimalist rooms are round an adjacent courtyard – and guests have access to a lounge above the pub, too. The food in the bar includes Guinness rarebit and duck terrine, while the light-filled restaurant focuses on organic fare from the owners’ regenerative farm on the Linley Estate and the Welsh Marches. I feast on huge radishes with anchoïade, and hake with fennel, capers and crispy polenta. Breakfast the next morning – homemade granola and poached rhubarb – is equally delicious. It’s such a lively, friendly place I’m tempted to move nearby for the pub alone. They’ll even drive locals home if they’ve had one too many, Sam tells me.

Blue skies and gentle sunshine greet me for day two of the hike, a 12-mile yomp across rugged moorland and pastures to Bishop’s Castle. The pub lies on the edge of the Long Mynd, a heath and moorland plateau, but I’m heading north to the Stiperstones, a national nature reserve with a wild, dramatic ridge of quartzite rock formations that pierce the ground. I climb higher, passing Devil’s Chair tor, watching skylarks and buzzards soar overhead.

It’s a beautiful walk. After several hours, a magnificent avenue of Linley Beeches line the descent into Bishop’s Castle, a pretty town of half-timbered houses. Bank House B&B, a Georgian renovation with an oak-panelled drawing room and five antique-filled rooms, is my home for the night. I pop into the Poetry Pharmacy where prescriptions are poems chosen to spark specific emotions, to be “taken” when required (I leave with a bottle of Joy). Although little remains of the medieval castle that once stood here and gives the town its name, the grand Castle Hotel, with its pretty gardens and welcoming restaurant, is worth a visit.

With more time, I could, of course, carry on and add another loop of the trail. But the train back home beckons – Craven Arms station is a short bus or taxi ride away – and I leave feeling pleased to have dipped my toe into a small segment of the Shropshire Way. As far as rambling weekends go, it’s ticked all the right boxes, and whetted my appetite to discover more.

The trip was provided by Visit Shropshire and train travel from London to Shropshire was by Visit England. The Bridges has rooms from £120 a night. The Lion + Pheasant has rooms from £140 a night. Bank House B&B has rooms from £110 a night. Luggage transfer was provided by Silver Sherpa and costs from £30 a day for 1-3 bags

IT’S out with the old and in with the new, as holiday-makers seek out less visited destinations.

This year will see growing interest in “Cinderella destinations”, previously overshadowed by more heralded neighbours, finds research for operator Riviera Travel.

Bookings for South Korea are up 167 per cent, year on year, while those for Uzbekistan have risen by 42 per cent.

So, before securing next year’s getaway, take a look at Sophie Swietochowski’s alternative suggestions . . . 

TRANSYLVANIA

You might think Transylvania, a Romanian region strongly linked to vampires, should only be visited at this time of year as we approach the spooky season.

But there’s so much culture and fascinating history to be explored, beyond the Dracula myths.

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Glorious hiking trails make it a rambler’s paradise while animal lovers should keep their eyes peeled for brown bears, which are highly concentrated in this area of Romania.

This eight-day Transylvania and Bucharest tour will tick off the must-sees, from tiny villages with medieval squares and clocktowers to Bran Castle, inspiration for the Gothic lair in the Dracula books.

GO: The eight-day trip costs from £1,749pp based on two people sharing and including return flights and transfers, accommodation in four-star hotels, daily breakfast, two lunches and two dinners, and 12 experiences. For details, check out rivieratravel.co.uk.

SRI LANKA

While Sri Lanka is not exactly an undiscovered destination, it has become more popular in recent years as more and more travellers favour it over the much-visited Thailand.

Tourist numbers are lower than for other nearby destinations, meaning prices are still cheaper and travellers can get more bang for their buck.

Also, you won’t be dealing with mega crowds and tourist traps.

Instead, you can expect high-end accommodation and loads of wildlife (a half-day safari trip should be top of your list of things to do).

If wildlife is what you’re after then a stay at the 5H Sun Siyam Pasikudah offers great value for money — and you’re likely to spot monkeys and cows strolling the beach or elephants in the backstreets nearby.

GO: Seven nights’ half-board at the 5H Sun Siyam Pasikudah is from £1,379pp including flights from Gatwick and transfers on April 13. Book by October 15. See travelbag.co.uk or call 0203 393 9620.

SLOVENIA

Those on the hunt for glorious alpine views and vast lakes tend to make a beeline for Switzerland or Austria.

These destinations can make a heavy dent in the wallet, though.

So why not look to Slovenia instead?

Its glacial rivers and snow-drenched peaks could rival those in the fanciest resort towns of popular holiday countries, with the dramatic Lake Bled offering the most glorious backdrop for tourist snaps.

Make sure to visit the Vipava Valley, too.

It’s Slovenia’s answer to Tuscany and home to some unique white wines that you won’t find anywhere else.

GO: Seven nights’ room-only at the 4H Triglav Bled is from £459pp including flights from Luton on February 22. See loveholidays.com.

UZBEKISTAN

Brits can visit Uzbekistan visa-free for up to 30 days, which is more than enough time to indulge in the country’s fascinating architecture.

Turquoise domes and colourful mosaics are a key feature of many notable buildings, including the Shah-i-Zinda in Samarkand, which was built between the 11th and 15th Centuries.

The ancient trading route that makes up the Silk Road passes through the heart of the country and, if you have got cash to splash, you can soak up the best of it on an 11-day adventure.

The trip starts in Tashkent before heading to the Ayaz-Qala desert fortress, Khiva (a Unesco World Heritage city), Bukhara and Samarkand.

GO: The Silk Road trip is from £3,249pp based on two people sharing, including return flights and transfers, nine nights in three to four-star accommodation, daily breakfast and nine meals, plus ten experiences. For details, check out rivieratravel.co.uk.

SOUTH KOREA

Forget Japan, South Korea’s K-pop music, quality beauty products and fascinating culinary scene have the younger generations hooked.

And with the recent launch of direct Virgin Atlantic flights from Heathrow to South Korean capital Seoul, the country is now easier than ever to reach.

So if this sounds like your cup of tea (or bowl of kimchi), book now before visitor numbers skyrocket.

Seoul, in particular, blends history and culture with modern-day living — palaces sit between skyscrapers, and traditional markets are close to contemporary shopping areas.

GO: Eight nights’ room-only at the 5H Grand Hyatt Incheon is from £1,458pp including flights from Heathrow on May 12. Check out virginatlantic.com/holidays.