Discover a charming coastal village where ancient legends meet family-friendly beaches, featuring the mysterious Carreg Bica – the legendary giant’s tooth rock on its pristine shores
The beach is a peaceful escape (Image: Visit Wales/Harry Williams)
Genuinely Welsh and largely untouched, this thinly populated village is perfectly nestled between dramatic cliffs, creating a breathtaking landscape steeped in mythical legend.
Llangrannog is a charming little village in every sense, yet its beaches remain as stunning as ever, divided by a towering cliff. Cilborth Beach and Llangrannog Beach sit side by side, and at low tide it’s a simple stroll between the two.
The rock positioned in the centre of the beach has a peculiar shape and seems a rather strange place to have emerged from the ground. But this is no ordinary rock – it is more famously known as Carreg Bica, meaning Bica’s rock.
Legend has it that this mysterious rock once belonged to a giant named Bica, who resided nearby in Ceredigion. As the story goes, he suffered from an agonisingly painful toothache and was ultimately left with no option but to wrench his tooth out.
He tore it from his mouth and flung it onto the sand, where it has remained for countless ages, captured in photographs throughout history. It serves as a charming local landmark, and at low tide it can be spotted from both beaches.
Best holiday cottage deals in Wales
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Wales is renowned for its stunning mountains, picturesque coastline and rich Celtic history. Sykes has a wide and varied collection of holiday cottages, houses and apartments across the country. Prices start from £35 per night with current deals.
Yet Llangrannog has far more to offer than just its legendary rock, with its beaches providing a natural playground for children and families alike to discover and explore.
As the tide rolls in, it not only reveals a longer stretch of sand but also uncovers a wealth of rock pools, where visitors can hunt for crabs, winkles and limpets.
One visitor described it as a “great day out”, writing on TripAdvisor: “Gorgeous cove with a sandy beach and excellent division for those with dogs. Parked in the top FREE car park and a 15 min walk down. Fabulous cafe with homemade ice cream right on the shore.”
Another shared: “What a find and dog-friendly too! An amazing beach and a real gem. A few good well-priced cafes and a lovely pub all right on the beach.
“Didn’t do park and ride as was able to park by the beach (had to pay, but worth the money, especially as it has an elderly relative, so easy access). Would highly recommend for all ages.”
It’s important to note, however, that numerous reviewers on the platform have lodged serious complaints about the beachside car park.
Many claim to have been “scammed”, receiving parking fines of £100 which have “spoilt” what is otherwise an apparently stunning location.
To sidestep this issue, seeking alternative public parking would be advisable, or better still, there’s a coastal path stretching along the entire area, connecting other nearby beaches to those in Llangrannog village.
For instance, by beginning your day at Tresaith Beach, you can weave a peaceful coastal walk into your plans to reach this spectacular cove while avoiding the reported car park mayhem.
Upon arrival, Llangrannog Beach offers several places to grab an ice cream, enjoy a refreshing drink or have a bite to eat. The Beach Hut, Tafell and The Ship are amongst the establishments tucked along this charming stretch of the stunning coastline.
Everything travellers need to know about online check-in rules and bag drop deadlines for Ryanair, EasyJet and Jet2 in 2026
11:51, 27 Apr 2026Updated 12:12, 27 Apr 2026
Passengers flying with these airlines should be aware of the latest check-in rules(Image: Getty )
With the two May bank holidays fast approaching, numerous travellers will be plotting to make the most of the long weekends by jetting off on getaways. Among the most popular airlines operating at UK airports are Ryanair, Jet2 and EasyJet, and passengers flying with these carriers are being urged to familiarise themselves with the latest check-in regulations.
There are specific policies and rules that holidaymakers need to be aware of, including various timing requirements to avoid missing their flights. Due to longer queues at passport control following the rollout of EES (Entry/Exit System) for passengers travelling to non-Schengen destinations, travellers are advised to factor in additional time when arriving at and departing from overseas airports.
Check-in desks have designated closing times for passengers to drop off their luggage before shutting. For anyone heading abroad with bags to check in, here are the current rules for Ryanair, Jet2 and EasyJet you’ll want to get to grips with to avoid last-minute panic.
Ryanair’s latest check-in rules
Ryanair has overhauled how check-in and boarding passes operate in a bid to streamline airport procedures. The most significant upcoming change is that check-in and bag drop desks will close earlier, coming into effect from November 10, 2026. The current deadline means desks typically open two hours before and close 40 minutes before your scheduled departure.
In November, desks will close 60 minutes before departure across all airports. The airline is introducing this change to allow passengers more time to clear security and passport control, particularly owing to potential delays from the new EU Entry/Exit System (EES), reports the Liverpool Echo.
Should you fail to check in online up to two hours before your scheduled departure time, you may still check in at the airport up to 40 minutes before departure, however you will be charged an airport check-in fee. See Ryanair’s table of fees. “We urge all passengers to check in online before arriving at the airport to avoid these fees,” the airline says.
Towards the end of last year, Ryanair switched to 100% digital boarding passes via the Ryanair App, with exceptions for certain destinations such as Morocco and Turkey, which still require printed passes. If you have checked in but are unable to access your digital pass, staff can provide a free replacement.
You can check in via the Ryanair.com website or through the mobile App. Once logged in, select check-in and input your travel document details. For your safety and security, and for the safety and security of your fellow passengers and crew, the check-in process must be completed by you personally, by a passenger on your booking, or by someone with personal knowledge of you and your luggage.
If you have pre-reserved a seat, online check-in is available up to 60 days before your scheduled departure. Bear in mind that both your outbound and return flights must fall within that 60-day window. If you haven’t reserved a seat and one is being randomly allocated to you, check-in opens 24 hours before your flight and closes two hours before departure.
Airport check-in is also an option, though you’ll be charged a fee per passenger for the additional service – refer to Ryanair’s table of fees for full details. Should you have already checked in but are unable to display your boarding pass on the app upon arriving at the airport, you will be issued a replacement boarding pass free of charge.
Jet2’s latest check-in rules
Online check-in through Manage My Booking is available from 28 days up to six hours before departure via Jet2’s website or app. You’ll need to either print your boarding passes, download them to your device, or check in at the airport no later than three hours before your scheduled departure.
At the airport, Jet2 check-in desks typically open at least two hours and 30 minutes before your scheduled departure, and potentially up to three hours beforehand. Jet2 says: “Please arrive at the airport in good time, as our check-in desks will close 40 minutes before your scheduled departure time. By this point, you must have completed the check-in process.” If you have checked luggage, you must arrive at the check-in desk by the time stated on your itinerary, or at least two hours before your flight departs. You are also required to be at the boarding gate no later than 30 minutes before the scheduled take-off time.
Jet2 is unable to provide online check-in for flights departing from Turkey. It says: “You can still complete the process and get your pre-allocated seats, but you’ll need to visit our airport check-in desks to collect your boarding pass before you go to security.”
In line with European Regulations, passengers are prohibited from carrying certain items into security-restricted areas or aboard an aircraft. To view the complete list of banned items, visit the Jet2 website. At select UK airports, Jet2 provides a Twilight Check-in service, allowing passengers to drop off their luggage at the airport the evening prior to departure, provided their flight is scheduled before noon.
Due to the EU Entry/Exit System (EES) which launched on April 10, 2026, travellers should allow additional time at the airport for the mandatory biometric registration process. Once you have checked in online, amendments to your booking, such as adding extra baggage or changing names, cannot be made without contacting customer services directly.
EasyJet’s latest check-in rules
Passengers can check in online from 30 days up until two hours before departure, downloading or printing boarding passes for all their flights. A passport or identity card may be required, and EasyJet might ask travellers to verify their contact information.
The airline doesn’t accept PDF scans of boarding passes on mobile devices, as airport security personnel cannot scan them. Passengers must use either the official app version or a clearly printed paper copy. Lost boarding passes can be reprinted, and when printing, the entire pass must be legible.
Should any booking amendments be made – such as adding hold luggage or altering flight times – passengers must check in again and obtain a fresh boarding pass. EasyJet says: “If you have any technical problems whilst checking in, please don’t give up and do try again later. If you continue to have difficulty, please ask our ground crew for help when checking in at the airport: this must be done before the bag drop closing time.”
The airline emphasises there are crucial timings for travel. Passengers need to have all documentation prepared and allow sufficient time to navigate the airport to arrive punctually for their flight. Those running late may be refused travel by EasyJet, resulting in a missed flight. All timings are calculated from your flight’s scheduled departure time. Unless EasyJet informs you otherwise, these timings remain valid even if your flight is delayed, as the airline states it always endeavours to recover any lost time. You can view the complete list of crucial timings on the EasyJet website.
A statement on the website reads: “Please note – airport times may change after you’ve booked. For example, if there’s major disruption or new airport procedures such as increased security. We’ll send any updates using the contact details we have for your booking, so please check with the booker that we have the correct details. Please also check our Flight Tracker for the latest updates about your flight.”
Arrival times differ by airport, but general deadlines are calculated from your scheduled departure:
Bag drop opens: Usually two to three hours before departure.
Bag drop closes: Strictly 40 to 60 minutes before departure, depending on the airport.
Gate closes: Promptly 30 minutes before departure.
With the upcoming May bank holidays and extra long weekends, this might be the best time to book a break by the seaside, and there are some beautiful UK destinations to choose from
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The best UK coastal destinations have been revealed for a staycation (Image: Getty Images)
The UK’s best seaside destinations for a mini staycation have been named, from ‘coral’ beaches to turquoise waters and traditional beach huts lining the shores.
The UK is home to some of the most awe-inspiring landscapes, and the stretches of picturesque coastline more than account for that. From the whitewashed cliffs of Devon to Victorian piers stretching out to sea along the Somerset coast, and the azure waters of Cornwall that compare to those in the Caribbean.
With a whopping 1,500 beaches across the UK, we’re spoilt for choice on where to spend a weekend escape or mini-break by the seaside. Yet, some have been named the best of them all, and it’s in perfect time ahead of the May bank holiday weekends.
Following research by the staycation specialist, Sykes Holiday Cottages, the top 10 UK destinations that are best for a short coastal break have been revealed. Whether you’re looking for a seaside escape with the backdrop of mountain peaks, the pristine shores with sugar-white sand, or the traditional seaside fun with a pleasure pier, there’s somewhere to suit everyone.
Topping the list was the breathtakingly beautiful terrains of the Isle of Skye in Scotland, thanks to stretches of sprawling coastlines against the backdrop of rugged mountains and emerald-green valleys. The beaches are striking, with crystal-clear waters, dark volcanic shores and crushed maerl on the famed Claigan Coral Beach.
St Ives in Cornwall, known for its turquoise waters and golden sand beaches, modestly followed behind. Dubbed the ‘Cornish California’, it’s long been a favourite among Brits seeking a break in the coastal town, with surfing beaches, a charming harbour and sheltered bays.
One that might come as a surprise, beating the likes of Devon, is the diverse coastline of Whitby in North Yorkshire. Its main beach, West Cliff, is known for its wide stretches of golden sand, traditional beach huts, and rock pools, framed by a dramatic backdrop of rocky cliffs and the ruins of historic Whitby Abbey.
In fourth place was the lively coast of Brighton in East Sussex, with its iconic four-mile promenade, historic Palace Pier over its shingle beach and Victorian arches. Known as the ‘London by the Sea’, there’s an energetic atmopshere, a catalogue of eateries, shops and attractions, alongside its traditional seaside charm.
Another seaside spot that made the top five was the Causeway Coast in Northern Ireland, known for its 30-mile stretch of Atlantic coastline, sand beaches and white chalk cliffs. There are villages, towns, and harbours dotted near the coast, offering an idyllic weekend break against its picture-postcard vistas.
While Devon didn’t make the top five, its coast in Torquay put the holiday hotspot amongst the top 10, alongside Anglesey in North Wales and Bournemouth in Dorset. But it was Cornwall that was featured heavily on the list, with Newquay and Padstow also making the top 10 of the best seaside getaways.
Top 10 coastal destinations for a short break:
Isle of Skye, Scotland
St Ives, Cornwall
Whitby, North Yorkshire
Brighton, East Sussex
Causeway Coast, Northern Ireland
Torquay, Devon
Anglesey, North Wales
Bournemouth, Dorset
Newquay, Cornwall
Padstow, Cornwall
To book a staycation by the sea, visit the Sykes Holidays Cottages website. You can also call 01244 617 683, or download the Sykes Holiday Cottages app.
A beautiful UK beach that’s perfect to visit in May has been compared to the Caribbean, thanks to its crystal-clear turquoise waters and unspoiled sand – and even locals agree
This stunning beach might just be the UK’s answer to the Caribbean (Image: Getty Images)
You don’t have to hop on a long-haul flight to lap up the pristine shores and azure waters of the Caribbean, as there’s a stunning beach right on our doorstep that starkly compares.
The coastline of the UK is perhaps one of the most diverse and striking. There are dramatic whitewashed cliffs in Devon, stretches of golden sand beaches in Dorset, azure waters in Scotland, and traditional Victorian piers stretching out to sea in Somerset.
Yet among these picturesque shores is Porthcurno Beach in Cornwall, which has been compared to Caribbean vistas, thanks to its sugar-white sand and sensational, crystal-clear turquoise waters. It’s a sheltered oasis with rugged cliffs encircling the sandy shores, and thanks to its south-facing position, it offers a natural shelter from coastal winds, alongside warming temperatures.
It’s often been dubbed one of the UK’s most beautiful beaches, and the experts at GO Outdoors ranked the Cornish beach, near Land’s End, among its top 10 for the ‘best UK beaches to visit this Spring’. It’s ideal for a day spent at the beach, whether you’re building sand castles, having a picnic, playing games, or simply reading a book against its scenic backdrop.
Dubbed a UK paradise, one fan shared on TripAdvisor: “I am Cornish born and bred, and can recommend lots of lovely beaches to visit in Cornwall. But Porthcurno beach wins hands down every time! It is truly stunning! We visit as often as we can – you could well be in the Caribbean!”
Another wrote: “The most amazing beach, beautiful white sand and turquoise sea. Breathtaking views and definitely one of the best beaches you will ever find.” A third also noted: “An absolutely beautiful beach in Cornwall with really clear water and white glorious sand and some stunning scenery, a very special beach, one of the most beautiful I’ve seen in the UK.”
With notoriously clear waters, it’s ideal for a paddle or swim, and has often been a popular spot for bodyboarding. There’s also a small stream that runs down one side of the beach, ideal for young children and families as a safe place to play in the water.
For those looking to explore the coast on foot, there are ample coastal paths that wind around Porthcurno. The South West Coast Path is situated just behind the beach, where ramblers can stroll west to Porthgwarra, “a reclusive cove”, or walk east to discover Treryn Dinas, “the iconic headland that features a promontory fort that dates back to the Iron Age”, as Visit Cornwall notes.
Yet visitors to Porthcurno Beach may also find themselves transported to Greece, thanks to its renowned open-air theatre overlooking the breathtaking coast. Minack Theatre, which dates back to the early 1930s and still runs performances from May to September, sits atop the rugged cliffs with its magnificent architecture echoing that of the famous Theatre of Dionysus.
Aside from its picture-postcard scenes, that is enough to warrant a visit, the experts at GO Outdoors found that Porthcurno Beach has an average spring temperature of around 10C and an average of 7.3 hours of sunshine per day. While it may feel a little brisk along the coast at times, it’s well worth exploring one of the ‘best beaches in the UK’ to feel as though you’ve stepped onto the sandy shores of the Caribbean, minus the scorching heat.
Calum Jones, author and outdoor enthusiast at GO Outdoors, offered advice for anyone looking to enjoy a beach day trip. “As the days get longer and the weather warms up, spring is the perfect time to explore the stunning coastlines across the UK. From Druridge Bay Beach in the North East to Immeridge Bay in the South West, there are breathtaking beaches to discover all around the country,” he said.
“When planning your spring beach trip, keep in mind that British weather can still be unpredictable. Bring a waterproof jacket to stay dry in case of sudden showers, choose supportive, waterproof footwear for any slippery sand or rocks, and layer your clothing so you can easily adjust to changing temperatures.
“Sun protection is also important, even in spring. Apply a generous layer of suncream before you head out, and don’t forget a cap and sunglasses to shield yourself from harmful UV rays.”
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The German airline is one of the biggest in Europe
Lufthansa has announced it is cutting 20,000 flights (Image: Getty )
Lufthansa has issued a statement after energy bosses claimed Europe has six weeks’ supply of jet fuel left. Fatih Birol, executive director of the International Energy Agency (IEA), warned there could be flight cancellations ”soon” if oil supplies remain restricted by the Iran war.
When approached for comment, Lufthansa told the Mirror that it claims to be in a better position than most competitors regarding its kerosene requirements. A spokesperson for the airline said: “The Lufthansa Group has secured (‘hedged’) approximately 80 per cent of its kerosene requirements for 2026.
“And approximately 40 per cent for 2027 based, among other things, on the price of crude oil – both at pre-crisis price levels. With this level of hedging, we are in a better position than most competitors.”
It comes as the airline announced it will cut 20,000 short-haul flights from its schedule this summer to save money amid rising jet fuel costs. Most of these cuts are due to the shutdown of its unprofitable CityLine fleet and the retirement of its 27 planes. The airline pointed out that jet fuel prices have more than doubled and noted labour disputes involving its employees.
A statement on the Lufthansa Group website reads: “In total, 20,000 short-haul flights will be removed from the schedule through October, equivalent to approximately 40,000 metric tons of jet fuel, the price of which has doubled since the outbreak of the Iran conflict. The schedule adjustments reduce the number of unprofitable short-haul flights across the Lufthansa Group network.
“The planned consolidation of the European network is being carried out across Lufthansa Group’s six hubs in Frankfurt, Munich, Zurich, Vienna, Brussels, and Rome. Passengers will therefore continue to have access to the global route network, particularly long-haul connections. However, due to the increase in jet fuel prices, this will be achieved significantly more efficiently than before.”
On Tuesday, April 21, the Prime Minister discussed the Government’s work to ease pressures caused by the Iran conflict with ministers and officials at a meeting of the Middle East Response Committee. A government spokesperson said: “The discussion focused on the Government’s ongoing work to ease pressures being felt here in the UK.
“This included the diplomatic activity to promote progress on negotiations, and bring back security and stability for the region, and the military planning to restore freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. The Prime Minister acknowledged that the impact of the war in the Middle East will be felt beyond the end of the conflict, and stressed the importance of protecting British families.
“They discussed a range of ongoing contingency planning, such as our work with fuel suppliers, airlines and international counterparts, to ensure people keep moving and businesses are supported. UK airlines are clear that they are currently not seeing a shortage of jet fuel, and it is right that the Government continues to work with industry to ensure we closely monitor the situation.
“They said it was right that this Government is introducing wider measures to strengthen long-term resilience, including measures announced today to accelerate breaking the link between gas and electricity prices to support families and businesses under pressure and exposed to volatile gas prices.”
Jet2 holidays to Spain just got even easier for Brits to plan as the holiday giant has announced exciting news ahead of the summer 2026 holidays
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Some Eurocamps also have direct beach access(Image: Jet2)
Jet2 has made it easier for Brits to plan Spain holidays this summer, as the travel giant is expanding its range of Eurocamp packages to the holiday hotspot. This means families booking a package holiday through Jet2 can now choose one of Eurocamp’s mobile homes or other accommodation for their break.
Jet2holidays previously offered Eurocamp packages in France, Croatia, and Italy, and has now added parks to Costa Brava , bringing the total number up to 54. Holidaymakers can book a Eurocamp package holiday online, and can filter results by selecting ‘Holiday Parks’.
While you can simply book accommodation directly with Eurocamp, a package holiday can come with perks; for example, with Jet2 your deal includes return flights, 22kg of checked and 10kg of hold luggage, ATOL protection, and car hire. The packages include the cost of bed linen, towels and and end-of-stay clean in most Eurocamps, as well as access to the entertainment and facilities on-site.
Eurocamp parks offer facilities such as restaurants, bars, and takeaways on site, and many offer daytime and evening entertainment during peak times, including the ever-popular minidiscos. Some parks in Costa Brava also have direct access to the beach where you can truly soak up the Spanish sunshine and take a cooling dip in the sea.
Its selection of Spanish parks include Castell Montgri, which sits between a lush green pine forest and a rugged stretch of the coast. Castell Montgri has four outdoor pools, including one with slides and kids areas, and there are four restaurants, a snack bar, and a pool bar. Enmar is another option close to the lively town of Enmar. The sandy beach is just 100 metres away, and there’s a large pool with a wildlife theme and slides.
Guests who stay on the Costa Brava can also take a day trip to Barcelona for some sightseeing, culture, and more. Explore the iconic Sagrada Família that dominates the skyline, or the unique Casa Batlló with its colourful Gaudi architecture. Wander around the historic La Boqueria market to try locally made foods or book a tour of Camp Nou and stand in the same spot as so many football legends.
In addition to Eurocamp, the Costa Brava has a range of other family-friendly accommodation such as Yelloh! Villages, which offer a similar style of mobile home holiday, pools, and entertainment. Another option is to go all inclusive, as some families find this easier to budget than a self-catering break. Package providers such as TUI offer a range of Costa Brava holidays from simple and friendly to luxury hotel options, so there’s something for all styles of holidaymaker.
Have a story you want to share? Email us at webtravel@reachplc.com
Air traffic controller strikes will cause ‘indefinite’ disruption to flights from April 17, affecting some of the most popular European holiday locations
Robert Rowlands Deputy editor, money and lifestyle, content hub and Maria Ortega
04:30, 17 Apr 2026
Multiple airports will be affected by the strike action from Friday, April 17 – pictured is an airport terminal at Lanzarote airport: file image(Image: Geography Photos, Universal Images Group via Getty Images)
British holidaymakers are facing the prospect of indefinite disruption starting from tomorrow at major European holiday destinations. A total of 14 airports at popular holiday locations are preparing for strike action from Friday, April 17.
Air traffic controller unions are warning that the strike action is ‘indefinite’. Spanish media reports indicate that the action by USCA kicks off on April 17 at the Canary Island hotspots of Lanzarote, Fuerteventura, La Palma, La Gomera and El Hierro – with nine further locations also affected.
Other popular holiday destinations set to be hit by airport strikes include the mainland locations of Jerez de la Frontera, La Coruña, Madrid-Cuatro Vientos, Vigo and Seville. Castellón, Burgos, Huesca and Ciudad Real are also set for strike action.
Travel website Travel On World is cautioning tourists that the greatest risk is likely to be “delays, late aircraft rotations, missed connections and short-notice timetable changes.”
The site notes that for many travellers, the main concern is not a complete shutdown of operations. Instead, it is planes departing late from earlier locations, inbound flights being held up, departure slots changing around, turnaround times tightening and passengers having to put up with long waits for clear details on what is happening.
Because air traffic control is classed as an essential service, Spanish authorities have the power to impose minimum service levels. This should mean that some flights continue to operate.
Some flights are therefore likely to depart close to schedule. Yet others may face significant delays, and some could be cancelled where airlines determine the knock-on effect has become too serious.
What are my rights over the Spain airport strikes?
According to the Civil Aviation Authority, if your UK flight is delayed, and a post-Brexit regulation known as UK261 applies to it, your airline must care for you while you are delayed. This includes supplying you with food and drink depending on the length of your delay, and accommodation if you are delayed overnight.
You may also be entitled to compensation if the delay results in you reaching your destination airport more than three hours late. If the delay exceeds five hours, you can opt not to travel and receive a refund.
What is the Spain strike action all about?
The airports affected by the industrial action share a common thread – all are operated by SAERCO. Further strikes had previously been anticipated at Lanzarote and Fuerteventura, linked to a separate ongoing dispute involving Groundforce baggage handlers. However, it emerged earlier this week that this action has now been suspended.
Travellers must now contend with this latest wave of industrial unrest. Air traffic control unions say they are taking strike action over staff shortages and shift scheduling disputes – and passengers should be ready for disruption.
USCA spokesman José Luis Feliú told El Espejo Canario that delays are a real possibility. And the sunspots are busy all year long. Aena reports that 5.7million British holidaymakers visited the Canary Islands in 2023 alone.
Even outside of the school holidays, the islands remain a firm favourite with British travellers – and for good reason. According to the Hello Canary Islands website, with 4,800 daylight hours a year, the Canary Islands have the most daylight hours of anywhere in Europe.
What the unions are saying about the Spain airport strikes?
USCA spokesman José Luis Feliú told Spanish media there is currently a “shortage of air traffic controllers,” which he said directly impacts the system’s operation. “It generates greater stress, more fatigue, and makes it impossible to guarantee service continuity,” he warns.
The union spokesman highlights that the surge in air traffic has worsened the situation, compelling professionals to shoulder heavier workloads under increasingly difficult conditions, reports El Espejo Canario. One of the most pressing concerns is shift management, he alleges. “The company unilaterally changes the schedule,” alleges Feliú, leaving workers unable to plan their personal lives, he claims.
He claims that air traffic controllers are forced to “give up leave, vacations, and planned changes,” a situation he regards as unsustainable in the long run. “In the end, you work the same hours, but without any planning,” he claims.
The strike is indefinite, although minimum services will remain in place, it is understood. Spanish website Larazon reports that the union cites “staff cuts of up to 33%” as the reason for this nationwide strike.
The website reports that the action is set to affect football fans using Seville airport. The Copa del Rey final will take place in Seville between Atlético de Madrid and Real Sociedad on Saturday, April 18.
According to Diario de Jerez, as of midday Thursday, the Jerez airport schedule still showed 18 commercial flights planned for Friday (nine landings and nine takeoffs). Meanwhile, another 18 commercial operations are scheduled for Saturday, two of them with Germany.
The pier has been extensively redeveloped and is widely regarded as one of Britain’s top seaside family attractions, perfect for a day out by the sea
The modernised pier is the perfect escape from the rain(Image: Getty)
When Brits picture a quintessential pier experience, their minds often drift to the likes of Blackpool or Brighton, while overlooking one of the UK’s finest piers.
Yet nestled in the South West, along the Bristol Channel in North Somerset, lies a coastal gem that delivers a pier experience unlike any other.
Weston-super-Mare pulled out all the stops when it decided to elevate its Grand Pier, preserving its heritage while simultaneously raising the bar on the main seafront stretch.
Today it caters to modern families in exactly the way a holiday spot should, boasting an indoor venue packed with excitement, entertainment and all the British seaside essentials.
Originally opening as the Grand Pier in 1904, it has since achieved listed building status, safeguarding a rich history of seaside tourism in Weston.
However, during this period, the pier has evolved from a simple viewing platform to a comprehensive attraction offering hours of amusement.
Sadly for visitors and residents alike, throughout its existence, the pier has been devastated twice by fires, the first in 1930 and subsequently in 2008. It was the 2008 disaster which granted it a completely fresh start and ushered in the reconstruction of the pier as it stands today.
In 2009, North Somerset Council gave the green light to proposals for a new pier to be constructed, with contractors John Sisk and Son chosen to build a new pavilion.
The revamped Grand Pier threw open its doors for the half-term holiday on 23 October 2010, with an official reopening for the tourist season the following July.
While the pier still offers traditional seaside rock, fish and chips and a host of arcade games — including the much-loved 2p machines — there is a great deal more on offer these days.
Fifteen years on, it continues to delight families seeking a fun-filled day out, with activities spread across two floors and stunning views of the surrounding sea.
Top indoor attractions include a house of horrors, glow-in-the-dark go-karts, mini golf, a free fall ride, a sidewinder ride, dodgems and much more besides.
One visitor shared their experience on TripAdvisor, writing: “We spent pretty much the whole day there and could easily go again the next day as we didn’t do everything (didn’t make it to soft play for the little ones) even though we did do the ghost train twice!
“Absolutely great day out at a beautiful venue. Wristbands are great value for money, and so much is included. 100% recommend – great destination. We will be back!”
On arrival, guests can pay a £2 entry fee per person at the door, or book tickets in advance to save the hassle of carrying loose change.
The pier’s website features a range of deals, including unlimited ride access or combined entry and ride packages for the whole family, making advance booking both straightforward and cost-effective.
As with any pier, visitors should expect to part with some money once they reach the pavilion, with individual attractions and games each carrying their own separate charges.
There’s no need to head off-site for a bite to eat either, as the Grand Pier has your mealtimes well and truly sorted with its range of cafés and dining options.
From classic fish and chips to sugary doughnuts, ice creams and more, the pier has everything you’d need for a perfect summer’s day or seaside trip.
A recent visitor shared: “Can clearly see a lot of thought and investment has gone into the grand pier. The couple of hours we spent there were enjoyable.
“There’s something and everything for all ages. Even if it’s just sitting out on a nice sunny day enjoying a nice drink. £2 entrance fee doesn’t break the bank.”
Weston-super-Mare is also home to a second pier, though there’s little in the way of entertainment on offer, as it remains derelict. Birnbeck Pier stands as a piece of history and a listed building, currently undergoing restoration work with hopes of reopening sometime in 2027.
Having first welcomed visitors in 1867, the once-stunning structure has lain dormant since 1994. Weston hopes to see it restored to its former glory, breathing fresh life into the seaside town as the only pier in the UK connected to an island.
