beach

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

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

This article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn more

From £35 per night

Sykes Cottages

See the deals

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.

It was only last week when Huntington Beach was unbeaten in the Sunset League and running away with the the league title. Now Newport Harbor (13-3) is closing fast, pulling to within one game of the Oilers (14-2) after Gavin Guy threw a five-hit shutout on Tuesday to beat the Oilers 1-0.

Guy struck out eight and walked. one. Keoni Wun drove in the game’s only run in the third inning with an RBI single. The two teams close the regular season with games Wednesday at Huntington Beach and Friday at Newport Harbor.

Marina 5, Fountain Valley 1: Jaxon Vilardi threw the complete game for Marina.

Edison 16, Corona del Mar 3: Cody Kruis had three hits and five RBIs for Edison, including three doubles.

St. John Bosco 7, Mater Dei 0: Julian Garcia struck out 10 in six innings while giving up no hits and Jaden Jackson and James Clark each hit home runs to help the Braves clinch at least a share of the Trinity League championship. Jack Champlin added two RBIs.

JSerra 8, Santa Margarita 7: Blake Bowen hit a walk-off home run in the bottom of the seventh for JSerra.

Orange Lutheran 3, Servite 0: Cooper Sides gave up three hits in six innings and Marcus Greis got the save.

Sierra Canyon 11, Loyola 2: Brayden Goldstein hit a home run and double, Theo Swafford had three hits and Carl McMullen had three hits and three RBIs for the Trailblazers.

Harvard-Westlake 12, Chaminade 3: Nate Blum had three hits, Ira Rootman contributed two hits and two RBIs and James Tronstein homered for the Wolverines.

Bishop Alemany 5, Sherman Oaks Notre Dame 3: Mikey Martinez had two hits for the Warriors and also got the save.

St. Francis 4, Crespi 2: Caysen Sullivan struck out six in 6 1/3 innings.

Ganesha 2, Palos Verdes 1: Logan Schmidt gave up two hits in five innings with eight strikeouts and no walks.

Brentwood 7, Viewpoint 0: Jack Kaplan threw a perfect game with 15 strikeouts.

Santa Monica 6, Culver City 5: The Vikings scored three runs in the sixth and two in the seventh to clinch the Ocean League championship. The Vikings are 23-0 in league play the last two years.

Temecula Valley 16, Vista Murrieta 0: The Golden Bears clinched the Southwestern League title. Taden Krogsgaard threw a no-hitter with 10 strikeouts and one walk.

Newbury Park 5, Westlake 4: Jack Klein had an RBI single in the sixth for the Panthers. Jaxson Neckien and Cade Atkinson each had two hits for Westlake.

Agoura 12, Thousand Oaks 2: Tyler Starling had three hits, including a home run, and Jordan Tagawa also had three hits for Agoura.

Calabasas 10, Oaks Christian 9: With two out in the top of the seventh, Oaks Christian had a chance to tie when the pitch went to the backstop. But it was retrieved and Oaks Christian’s runner was tagged out at the plate trying to score, ending the game. Michael Morales had three hits for Calabasas. Robert Sheffer hit two home runs for Oaks Christian. Luis Puls had a home run and six RBIs.

San Clemente 6, El Toro 0: Bob Erspamer struck out seven in five scoreless innings and Dax Conrad had two hits and two RBIs.

Softball

Murrieta Mesa 13, Great Oak 0: Tatum Wolff hit a three-run home run and also threw five shutout innings with nine strikeouts and no walks.

Sherman Oaks Notre Dame 3, Sierra Canyon 1: Nadia Ledon had two hits and Aliyah Garcia gave up two hits in six innings.

JSerra 5, Santa Margarita 2: Liliana Escobar struck out 14 for JSerra.

Mater Dei 6, Orange Lutheran 5: Aly Carrillo and Tulutululelei Sale each hit home runs in the Trinity League upset for the Monarchs.

Chaminade 11, Louisville 0: Finley Suppan struck out seven with no walks in six innings. Kyriel Fletcher had three hits.

The beach has crystal clear turquoise water and sandy golden shores, but travellers are being warned about one thing

A beautiful island beach has been named the best in the world by TripAdvisor’s Travellers’ Choice Awards. It’s described by visitors as relaxing and a perfect place to unwind, with one commenting that it’s not crowded despite its renown.

TripAdvisor’s Best of the Best Beaches list features several stunning locations across the globe, but Isla de la Pasión in Cozumel, Mexico made it to the very top of the selection. The island is fringed by the Caribbean Sea and nestled between the USA and the South American continent.

The beach on the island is esteemed for clear turquoise water and fine golden sands.

However, Viator, a TripAdvisor travel company, warns visitors to bring plenty of bug spray to this stunning location due to sand flies and mosquitoes being rife there. Sand flies are “especially active” at dawn and dusk.

Other travellers pointed out that visitors to this remote spot should wear strong bug spray with sand fly and mosquito bites blighting the experience for some tourists, although thousands report having a wonderful time.

However, they also pointed out that it is not a freely accessible public beach. It is necessary to purchase a day pass or hire an organised tour to this paradisal island.

Colourful coral reefs can be discovered by snorkelling at this popular tourist destination described as a “great island, not crowded at all”, but the island is private and can only be explored via an organised excursion.

One reviewer described the experience of visiting this peaceful place on TripAdvisor, writing that it’s “an oasis” accessible only by boat.

They added: “For me, as for most of those who see it, it’s a scenario that seems out of a postcard. Isla Pasión is on an isolated island in the Caribbean and can only be accessed through boat tours, usually departing from Cozumel.”

“I want to go back,” the reviewer continued, describing shallow “crystal clear waters, protected coral reefs and an extensive band of white sand”.

Viator, which offers Isla Pasión tours, advised that sun protection is essential, especially if you’re travelling on an open-top boat.

The best time to go to Isla Pasión is during sunny and dry weather from January to April to experience “crystal-clear water” at Cozumel snorkelling spots such as Isla Pasión, Viator explained, which is also a great time to visit to spot marine wildlife.

Isla Pasión has been praised for being a perfect location for families with entertainment at hand for children and young people.

One TripAdvisor reviewer described their trip to Isla Pasión, writing: “Our family had a wonderful time. The crew was amazing. Everyone was very friendly. There were a lot of fun activities for the kids. Also, the food and drinks were great.”

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

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.

READ MORE: From pretty towns to ancient forests, 10 fairytale UK locations for a day outREAD MORE: American living in UK shares four British things that ‘feel illegal’ but aren’t

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.”

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

The city is a popular cruise ship destination, is famous for its huge Christmas lights displays – and is within easy reach of ‘the world’s best beach’

British holidaymakers are bracing themselves for a new tourist tax at a Spanish beauty spot. Vigo, located in the north-west of Spain, has 45 beaches according to one report – and is within easy reach of one of the best beaches in the world.

The city is equally renowned for its spectacular Christmas light displays, considered among the best on the planet. Respected travel expert Simon Calder is a firm admirer of the destination, describing it as ‘cultured’ and ‘highly affordable’. The Aviothic website calls it ‘Spain’s best kept secret’.

But now local officials are putting the finishing touches to plans for a new tourist tax, according to reports in the Spanish media. The move follows in the footsteps of Santiago and La Coruña, both of which introduced similar levies in late 2025, drawing criticism from various quarters.

Reports indicate that Vigo City Council is pressing ahead with proposals to introduce its own tourist tax, with the aim of ‘redistributing’ profits generated by the tourism industry. The levy is also intended to help reduce the environmental strain caused by mass tourism on the local area.

Vigo is perhaps best known for its dazzling Christmas lights, with more than 11 million LED lights illuminated across the city last year. The city, home to around 295,000 residents, is also celebrated for a nearby breathtaking beach within reach of Vigo – although visitors staying near the beach will not pay the tax.

The Guardian once hailed its Rodas Beach, situated on the Cíes Islands, as the “best beach in the world”. The bustling port city is equally popular as a cruise ship destination.

In fact, this week Vigo takes centre stage in international tourism as the season’s first triple cruise ship call gets under way, with the city set to welcome more than 7,500 visitors within just a few hours. The port is simultaneously hosting three large ships, the Britannia, the Ventura and the Le Bellot.

However, it now seems tourists will shortly face a levy for the privilege of visiting the destination. No form of accommodation will escape the charge, according to El Debate. The amount will vary depending on the hotel’s star rating.

The publication reports the tax could reach as much as €2 per person daily for 4-star superior and 5-star establishments. A €1.60 daily charge is proposed for tourist accommodation and 2-star superior, 3-star and 4-star hotels.

It’s understood that under the proposals, holiday apartments and rural tourism properties – alongside hostels and campsites – will incur a €0.80 per person daily fee, while guesthouses and 1- and 2-star hotels will pay €1.20. Cruise passengers won’t escape either. Abel Caballero, mayor of Vigo, confirmed those disembarking at Vigo’s docks will be charged €1.20.

He said: “From when it comes into force until July 1, 2027, the tax will apply to the first two nights of a stay. Therefore, someone visiting Vigo for 4 nights will pay the tourist tax for only the first 2 nights. From July 1, 2027, the tax will apply to a maximum of five nights per stay.”

He said the tourist tax would be rolled out “gradually” from October, shortly before the Christmas lights are illuminated. Exemptions for health reasons are being considered. Children and certain disabled individuals are also expected to be exempt.

The tax must still secure approval from the Governing Board ahead of one final vote – however, the mayor’s comments suggest it could well be on the cards. In Barcelona, the combination of a regional tax and a municipal charge has hiked up the cost to between 5 and 12 euros a night. In La Coruna, the local hotel association has launched a legal battle to block the levy.

Travel journalist Simon Calder has previously highlighted Vigo’s appeal to British visitors. Writing in the Independent, he said: “Vigo claims to be the largest fishing port in the world, and plentiful fresh seafood is a strong attraction. The city is also an excellent starting point for wider exploration of the rias (inlets) that carve the shoulder of Spain so dramatically.”

How can I get to Vigo from the UK?

Ryanair offers a direct service from the UK to Vigo–Peinador airport, operating out of London Stansted. Journey times are approximately 2 hours 10 minutes.

Many visitors heading to Vigo opt to fly into nearby Santiago de Compostela instead, which is just 50–60 minutes away by car. Both Ryanair (Stansted) and Vueling (Gatwick and Heathrow) operate direct flights to Santiago several times weekly, offering a greater choice of services and often cheaper fares.

Bear in mind, however, that Santiago airport is closed from April 23 to May 27, 2026 for runway resurfacing works. At the heart of Vigo’s social scene lies the Casco Vello (Old Town), a beautifully restored maze of narrow granite streets and bustling plazas.

Visitors may also wish to explore Castro de Vigo, an archaeological site that reveals how the region’s original inhabitants lived in stone huts more than 2,000 years ago. The Guardian says the city has 45 beaches, and notes that an attraction for UK tourists in visiting Vigo is that it brings “the Caribbean-like beaches of the Cíes islands within easy reach.”

“The islands are an easy day trip from Vigo, adding a relaxing beach element to your Spanish city break,” the paper said in a positive review of the city.

KIM Kardashian and Lewis Hamilton’s romantic beach pictures prove that they’ve hard launched a VERY different relationship.

Body language expert Judi James has revealed that Kim, 45, and Lewis, 41, appear to be the real deal with “genuine displays of intimacy”.

The happy couple, who went official with their relationship in December, packed on the PDA during their getaway in Malibu.

The Skims founder looked in her element as she enjoyed a surf lesson with her beau.

TV personality Kim showed off her incredible figure in a skintight wetsuit and a black bikini top.

The F1 star wore a pair of black shorts and a matching T-shirt.

They were seen all over each other as they struggled to keep their hands off one another.

Judi has now revealed that the beach snaps illustrate just how much this famous couple are compatible, despite fears that they were a showmance.

Even though it’s early days, Judi believes that their is already a strong level of trust between the pair.

She exclusively told The Sun: “They might have been seen on a couple of chaste-looking dates where Lewis’s body language primarily spelled out ‘gentleman’ but these photos and the video look like the hard launch of a more tactile, sexual and romantic relationship between Kim and Lewis.

“Kim’s leading the plunge here, swimming ahead of Lewis as he seems to be struggling to catch up with her and touch her.

“When they are together in the ocean there are signs of an uninhibited and playful, mutually clinging relationship with Kim encircling Lewis with her arms and throwing her head back with an open-mouth laugh of sheer pleasure, with her relaxed neck-baring a sign of strong levels of trust in the relationship.”

The expert insisted that Kim appears to be in charge of the relationship but also seem to be rather like-minded and on the same page.

“Kim does look like the leader in the body language stages here, at one point she stands with her feet slightly splayed and her back arched as she performs a preening, confident pit-bare gesture as she squeezes the water out of her hair,” Judi shared.

“Lewis’s response is reciprocal as he shows his admiration by placing one hand out and onto the upper part of her bum.

“During a playful-looking moment Kim turns her torso in towards his, pressing it against his torso in an intimate pose as she places one hand on his waist and here he responds with one hand curved right around the shape of her bum.

“Kim and Lewis have dressed in coordinating swimwear here to signal they are a couple and their mirrored movements and poses at some points suggest a like-minded relationship too.”

Kim and Lewis packed on the PDA and were seen strolling along the beach and were pictured smiling and laughing together.

The lovebirds were then seen splashing about in the sea and were spotted with their arms wrapped around one another.

They appeared to be the real deal as they kept eye contact and smooched while riding the waves in the sea.

They were also seen showing off their surf skills during the sporty outing, with Kim jumping on top of the board, while Lewis kept an eye on her.

They seemed comfortable in each other’s presence as they clung to each other and rode the waves.

Last week, Kim sparked Kim rumours that she is moving in with Lewis as they went rug shopping in LA.

Lewis attempted to go incognito with black sunglasses and a baseball cap.

The two were seen heading back into a vehicle as they made their way home after the shopping trip.

Just last week, Kim made an 11,000-mile round-trip to spend 24 hours in London with Lewis.

She flew to the UK on her private jet to see her man in a bid to keep their long-distance romance alive.

She left Los Angeles last Monday and landed at Farnborough, Hants, at 4pm on the Tuesday before being chauffeured on a 90-minute journey to Lewis’s £18million home in Kensington, West London.

The couple stayed holed-up in his six-bedroom mansion while their security teams kept guard.

She then left on Wednesday afternoon, taking off from Oxford at 5.30pm to return to the US.

A source said: “Lewis and Kim are two of the busiest people in showbiz, but they are determined to do everything to see each other when they have any spare time.

“Kim spent Easter weekend with her family and then had a photoshoot in Los Angeles on Monday morning, then flew across the Atlantic to see Lewis.

“They didn’t have long together because she had commitments in the US to get back to, but it was quality time.”

Kim’s romance with Lewis became public knowledge after The Sun revealed she flew in from Los Angeles on her £100million private jet to spend an evening with him.

On January 31, the couple enjoyed a brief stay at the exclusive Estelle Manor in the Cotswolds, with insiders saying they had the spa to themselves, before enjoying a meal in a private room.

They made their public debut as a couple at the Super Bowl in February where they were spotted sitting together in a luxury suite.

They have since been seen together in Paris, the US and for several other trips.

Proving they’re the real deal, the sports star recently met Kim’s children while they were out in Tokyo ahead of the Japanese Grand Prix.

The couple were  joined by three of her children -Saint, 10, Chicago, nine, and six-year-old Psalm – while they were on spring break.

“It’s more than just a casual connection. It takes a lot to capture Kim’s interest and she’s definitely intrigued,” an insider told People.

“He’s just an easygoing guy with great energy.

“Her family likes him and Kim’s very into him. They are both busy with their careers, but see each other as much as possible.”

HOLIDAYMAKERS are being warned not to do one common activity at the beach.

Beach days are always fun, especially in the summer with the family – but the public are being warned to never dig a large hole in the sand in one part of the UK.

This is because a large hole can collapse in on itself and could pose the risk of trapping someone, including kids and pets.

The fresh warning comes from the coastguard at Cleethorpes, a popular seaside town destination with a four-mile beach, traditional pier and family-friendly activities, making it the ideal day out.

According to the BBC, Cleethorpes Coastguard deputy station manager Shaun Lee said: “It’s like an avalanche effect, where the sand just keeps collapsing and collapsing, and then people just get completely buried in it.

He explained that when a hole is dug with steep sides, the wet sand will dry out and make it looser and as a result, more prone to collapsing.

Read more on travel inspo

GO ON

All the little-known websites for cheap or FREE tickets to gigs, theatre & festivals

HOL YES

I’m a travel editor & mum-of-3… my favourite family holidays from just £3pp a night

He added: “We don’t want to be the fun police – just be aware of what you are doing if you are digging holes.”

Also in Lincolnshire, last year coastguards filled a hole in Sandilands Beach that was nearly two metres deep.

At the time, the coastguards said they filled the hole “for safety reasons”.

Last June, the coastguard filled a hole on Weymouth Beach as well, which was around 1.5metres deep.

It took the coastguard three people and 30 minutes to fill.

Senior Coastal Operations Officer Allan Norman, at HM Coastguard, said: “Buckets and spades are a lot of fun – but most of us wouldn’t dream of digging a 5ft deep hole at a park where youngsters are running about and people walk in the evening.

“It’s the same at busy beaches: deep holes can be hard to spot in the sand and pose the risk of someone falling in and being injured, particularly little children and older people.

“There’s also the danger of the sand collapsing on top of you, causing injury and suffocation.

“These incidents require whole teams of rescuers.

“We’d just ask people to stay aware of who else is on the beach and the potential risks of digging too deep.”

Even though beachgoers are warned against creating large holes at the beach, it doesn’t mean you can’t dig them at all.

Allan advises to just not dig it deeper than waist height and to avoid digging tunnels, which are even more likely to collapse.

He added that you should fill the hole in before you leave the beach.

If you do happen to be caught in a situation where you get stuck in a large hole on the beach, GOV.UK recommends creating a circle of people around the hole, who dig with their hands to create an outer circle.

Then create another circle of people behind that circle, but they will be removing the sand dug from the first circle.

By creating multiple circles, it will make the original hole bigger and more shallow and as a result, it will be less likely to collapse.

In other beach news, here are our 26 must-visit UK beaches for 2026 – including tropical-feel spots and family-friendly finds.

Plus, here’s the UK’s warmest beach that’s also home to two of the ‘most idyllic holiday homes’ and you can stay from just £30pp a night.

What’s the one thing better than finding the perfect beach? Finding one with a perfect cafe, bar or restaurant, where even the simplest of meals is elevated by a sea view and a soundtrack of crashing waves. We’d love to hear about your favourite finds in the UK and Europe, whether it’s a laid-back chiringuito in Spain, a seafood shack on a UK beach or an archetypal Greek taverna.

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

Keep your tip to about 100 words

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

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

The competition closes on Monday 27 April at 10am BST

Have a look at our past winners and other tips

Read the terms and conditions here

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

THE Hamptons in the US is an exclusive spot for the rich and famous known for its beautiful and pristine beaches.

But for those who want a taste of it, there’s no need to travel thousands of miles, as one beach in the south of England looks exactly like it.

West Wittering Beach in Sussex has been called the country’s answer to The Hamptons by Condé Nast Traveller.

The publication said the “beautiful sandy beach in West Sussex could rival Cape Cod, The Hamptons or pretty much any New England coastal spot in the US.”

West Wittering sits where Chichester Harbour meets the English Channel and has around 1.8 miles of white-sand shoreline that means it’s often called the “jewel in the crown” of the Sussex coast.

Just like spots in the Hamptons such as Cape Cod and Southampton Beach, the English beach is backed by natural grassland and lined with colourful beach huts.

SIGHT SEA

£9.50 holidaymakers’ favourite Skegness activities… away from the beach

GRUBS UP

Best pubs, fish and chip shops and cafes in Sussex – by Sun readers & locals

You won’t find any obnoxious rides or arcades at West Wittering Beach, but there are facilities like parking and a café.

There are other activities visitors can do, like trying surfing and kitesurfing.

But mostly, it’s a quiet beach with ample space for building sandcastles and rock pools to explore at low tide.

Sitting along the upper sandy beach, set within the dunes, are pastel-coloured beach huts.

It’s also perfect for wildlife spotting or setting off on one of the idyllic walks nearby.

West Wittering also has a Blue Flag, meaning it has high standards in qualities like water quality and safety.

It’s also a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

If you head down to East Head, take your binoculars to spot wildlife and birds amongst the dunes.

For more on the British coast – here are some of our favourite seaside towns…

*If you click on a link in this box, we will earn affiliate revenue.

Sidmouth, Devon
Take a trip to Sidmouth on the Jurassic Coast and wander down Jacob’s Ladder to its pretty shingle beach. Make sure to walk along the promenade and check out the independent shops and boutiques. Stay at the four-star Harbour Hotel for sea views and traditional afternoon tea from £135 per room.

BOOK A STAY

Whitby, North Yorkshire
With a history of sailors and vampires, a dramatic coastal path, and the very best in pints and scampi, it takes a lot to beat Whitby. Pop in the amusements, eat award-winning fish and chips, and board the all-singing Captain Cook boat tour on the harbour. The Royal Hotel overlooks the harbour with stays from just £68 per room.

BOOK A STAY

Old Hunstanton, Norfolk
This town has some of the best beach walks beside striped limestone cliffs, a Victorian lighthouse and 13th century ruins. The beach has golden sands with rolling dunes and colourful beach huts, backed by a pretty pinewood forest. Stay at a beachfront hotel from £100 per room.

BOOK A STAY

Seahouses, Northumberland
This is an authentic British seaside break, with fishing boats bobbing on its pretty harbour and fresh catches of the day to enjoy in local restaurants. There’s no flashing arcades here, but there’s a great beach with rockpools, boat trips, and you may even spot a grey seal, too. Treat yourself to a stay at the Bamburgh Castle Inn from £129 per room.

BOOK A STAY

It was even called the ‘best all-rounder’ beach in Sussex by Sun Readers.

Sun reader Clare Johnson, 52, from Brighton, said: “The best beach has got to be West Wittering.

“It’s a beautiful, huge sandy beach that is great for kids. But in summer it gets busy, so you need to pre-book parking (from £3.10 in low season, from £8.65 in peak season).”

This week would be an ideal time to visit as temperatures are set to rise to 16C.

Aside from its beach, West Wittering is a village home to around 3,000 residents and is filled with cottages and traditional pubs.

Those who want to explore can do so over a few days if they pitch up at Nunnington Farm campsite.

The cost for two people, one vehicle and unit on an electric pitch with free Wi-Fi starts from £20.50pp.

Nearby, visitors can also explore further by heading to the nearby city of Chichester.

Or if you fancy some arcade fun, head over to Hayling Island where there are amusement arcades at Funland Hayling Island.

For more on beaches, here are the 26 must-visit UK spots for 2026 – including tropical-feel spots and family-friendly finds.

And here are Britain’s hidden seaside holiday towns where you can dodge sky-high prices and book stunning breaks from just £49.

For two thirds of Sunday’s Acura Long Beach Grand Prix, Alex Palou bided his time… waiting for the one break he needed.

It came in the form of a caution on the 58th lap, allowing him to overtake front-runner Felix Rosenqvist exiting pit lane and hold the lead the rest of the way, taking the checkered flag by 3.96 seconds for his third triumph in five IndyCar Series races this season and his first at Long Beach.

Right after being showered with applause and confetti at victory lane, the 29-year-old Spaniard thanked his crew, whose quick work on the last pit stop proved to be the difference.

“Everyone was coming in on that yellow and they did an incredible job,” he said. “We were either going to win it or not win right there.”

Rosenqvist settled for second and Scott Dixon, Palou’s Chip Ganassi Racing teammate, was third.

It was the 11th win over the last 22 races dating back to 2024 for the Barcelona native and the 22nd win of his career, tying him with Tony Bettenhausen and Emerson Fittipaldi. It also vaulted him to the top of the Series standings as he chases his fourth Series championship in a row and fifth overall. Palou won the opener March 1 in St. Petersburg (also a street course) and the fourth race March 29 in Alabama.

Palou led for only 32 of the 90 laps Sunday and acknowledged it would have been difficult to catch Enqvist if not for the stoppage.

“I wasn’t giving up but it would’ve been tough to get him today,” Palou admitted. “He was already three seconds ahead. I was happy with my car but I was struggling more on the soft tires than the hards so I’d say my chances were low. The feeling was great seeing all the open space coming out of pit lane because when you spend 60 laps behind a car it disturbs you. I tried to match him on soft tires but it wasn’t working.”

Alex Palou speeds through a curve of the track.

(Ronaldo Bolaños / Los Angeles Times)

In six starts at Long Beach, Palou has never finished lower than fifth.

There is little room to maneuver on the 1.968-mile course with 11 tight turns, but after starting in the third position next to defending champion Kyle Kirkwood, Palou managed to sneak past Pato O’Ward into second place heading into the first turn on Lap 2.

“Making that move on the straightaway was big because I knew it was one of our only chances to get a pass on Pato,” Palou said. “I got that good run on that last corner and he didn’t expect it.”

This year marked the 51st edition of the longest-running major street race in North America, which started in 1975 as part of the Formula 5000 Series, switched to the CART/Champ Car World Series in 1984 and joined the IndyCar Series in 2009.

The top four qualifiers started on softer, high-grip “alternate” tires to establish position while the rest of the grid started on harder, more durable “primaries” to manage degradation on the 110-degree track surface. Of the 25 starters, 24 completed the 177.12 miles.

“We were going to make the two-stop strategy work but didn’t know if it would be doable or not,” Palou added. “As soon as I saw I couldn’t get Felix it was all about patience, fuel and waiting for the right time. I owe this win to my team. Without that pit stop I probably wouldn’t be sitting here now. It only takes one mistake to go from second to seventh but they’re great under pressure.”

Cars make their way down a straightaway during Long Beach Grand Prix.

(Ronaldo Bolaños / Los Angeles Times)

Past winners Will Power and Josef Newgarden moved into the top two positions after Rosenqvist pitted but the Swede regained the lead when Newgarden pitted for the first time on Lap 37 and dropped back to 14th.

The first 45 laps were caution-free as Rosenqvist, Palou, Kirkwood, David Malukas and O’Ward held the top five spots. Newgarden fell out of contention when a flat spot on his left front tire dropped him back to 14th.

Rosenqvist’s three-second lead was erased when debris on the track exiting the Aquarium Fountain drew the only yellow flag all afternoon and narrowed the gap. Capitalizing on favorable pit position, Palou emerged from the lane just ahead of Rosenqvist.

After earning the pole position with a lap time of 1 minute, 7.4625 seconds in qualifying, the runner-up had mixed emotions after leading for 51 laps with no win to show for it.

“You want to win when you have an opportunity but I’m proud of today,” Rosenqvist said. “We weren’t as good as Alex on the blacks… the last pit cycle was the defining moment. We had to come around 14, he had more of an opening and his crew nailed it. That happens.”

Kirkwood, who was vying for his third win in four years, finished right where he started in fourth.

“I had a good cushion and figured even with a bad stop I’d probably stay ahead but I knew there’d probably be a yellow at some point and there it came,” Rosenqvist lamented. “Considering Alex had primary [tires] also I think we would’ve been able to hold him off. It’s definitely disappointing when you can’t wrap it up.”

Dixon, who started in the position, earned his first podium this season and the 136th of his career.

Fans watch with two laps left in the race.

(Ronaldo Bolaños / Los Angeles Times)

“The race itself was a bit blah — I sat in the same position for most of it,” Dixon said. “Luckily for us we had it easy out of that last stop.”

Al Unser Jr. holds the record for most wins at Long Beach, chalking up six in eight years, including an unmatched four in a row from 1988 to 1991.

Tom Sargent is becoming a fan of street circuits after two wins this weekend. Driving the Porsche 911 Cup for GMG Racing in the Mobil Pro Class, the 22-year-old Australian led from start to finish in Race 1 of the Carrera Cup North America on Saturday. In Race 2 on Sunday morning, he again started from the pole and claimed a 0.965-second victory over Aaron Jeansonne to complete the double.

In his last bid at Long Beach three years ago, he hit the wall on Lap 2 but still finished second.

“Momentum in sports is critical and the past few weeks have been really cool for me,” Sargent said. “I didn’t do any street circuit racing before I came to the States. Maybe it fits my driving style.”

IF you’re looking for some of the most beautiful beachfront holiday homes, head to Camber Sands.

Two that sit right on the famous beach have been named as being some of the most ‘idyllic’ in the country from cosy cottages to A-shaped beach houses.

Follow The Sun’s award-winning travel team on Instagram and Tiktok for top holiday tips and inspiration @thesuntravel. 

Camber Sands sits on the south-east corner of England and its location makes it one of the warmest beaches in the country.

The spot also heats up quickly thanks to its sand dunes that absorb heat from the sun – and the spot is sheltered by the dunes too.

In spring, it can have highs of 19C, which is roughly 1C warmer than other popular UK spots like Dungeness and Studland Bay.

GO SEA IT

£9.50 holiday spot with shipwrecks, seals offshore & horseshoe-shaped waterfalls

GRUBS UP

Best pubs, fish and chip shops and cafes in Sussex – by Sun readers & locals

Camber Sands has an average of 195.19 hours of sunshine logged per month too.

The beach is often called the Hamptons of the UK, and it’s a favourite of Caroline McGuire’s (Head of Sun Digital).

She said: “Sussex lays claim to Camber Sands, but according to Wikipedia a small fraction of this seven-mile-long beach reaches over the Kent border. 

“Which helpfully means we can use it as part of this round-up, as it is easily the best beach in the area.

“Backed by large sand dunes, Camber is so large that you can always find a spot – even on the hottest of summer days – if you are willing to walk. 

“After an afternoon lazing in the sun, drive 10 minutes down the road to the medieval town of Rye for a pub dinner.“

There are some beautiful places to stay in Camber Sands – and two made it onto Country Living’s list of ’14 idyllic Airbnb beach houses in the UK’.

The first house is called ‘Coastguards Beach House‘ which is right at the edge of the beach perched high up on the shoreline.

Guests can rent out the entirety of the 1875 cottage which has a cosy log burner inside the comfortable lounge.

In the kitchen is a long table for hearty breakfasts and family dinners.

The cottage can sleep up to five guests and it has direct beach access with steps down to the sands.

Lots of guests described it as ‘cosy’, ‘remote’ and ‘peaceful’ thanks to its location away from the main beach hustle and bustle.

You can book a five-night stay in May for five guests from £771 – or £30.84pppn.

For more spots by the beach, check out these seaside towns…

Sidmouth, Devon
Take a trip to Sidmouth on the Jurassic Coast and wander down Jacob’s Ladder to its pretty shingle beach. Make sure to walk along the promenade and check out the independent shops and boutiques. Stay at the four-star Harbour Hotel for sea views and traditional afternoon tea from £135 per room.

BOOK A STAY

Whitby, North Yorkshire
With a history of sailors and vampires, a dramatic coastal path, and the very best in pints and scampi, it takes a lot to beat Whitby. Pop in the amusements, eat award-winning fish and chips, and board the all-singing Captain Cook boat tour on the harbour. The Royal Hotel overlooks the harbour with stays from just £68 per room.

BOOK A STAY

Old Hunstanton, Norfolk
This town has some of the best beach walks beside striped limestone cliffs, a Victorian lighthouse and 13th century ruins. The beach has golden sands with rolling dunes and colourful beach huts, backed by a pretty pinewood forest. Stay at a beachfront hotel from £100 per room.

BOOK A STAY

Seahouses, Northumberland
This is an authentic British seaside break, with fishing boats bobbing on its pretty harbour and fresh catches of the day to enjoy in local restaurants. There’s no flashing arcades here, but there’s a great beach with rockpools, boat trips, and you may even spot a grey seal, too. Treat yourself to a stay at the Bamburgh Castle Inn from £129 per room.

BOOK A STAY

The second Camber Sands Airbnb on the list is an A-framed beach house called ‘Barefoot‘.

This is the perfect spot for anyone who wants to beach right on their doorstep as it lies just behind the wooden deck of the house.

Inside is bright and modern, with huge windows that let in all the natural light.

The main bedroom is where you’ll find the best views thanks to the A-shaped of the house.

During the evenings, light up the wood burner and toast marshmallows while watching the sunset.

It has four bedrooms and can sleep up to eight people.

For those with pets, you can bring up to two dogs for an extra £35 per stay.

It’s received rave reviews and has a rating of 4.89 stars out of five on Airbnb.

One guest wrote: “Beautiful house in beautiful surroundings! Absolutely stunning setting, right on the beach and next to the dunes.”

A four-night stay in May for eight guests costs £3,274 – of £102.31pppn.

For more on beaches, here are our 26 must-visit UK beaches for 2026 – including tropical-feel spots and family-friendly finds.

Plus, here’s where you can find the best UK beach – AND it gets the least amount of rain in the country.

The high-powered Indy cars that will be racing in Sunday’s Grand Prix of Long Beach will burn about two gallons of fuel on each of their 90 trips around the tight 1.968-mile street course.

So if all 27 cars that start the race also finish it, the field will use 4,860 gallons of fuel. And that doesn’t include the fuel used in qualifying or in the other five classifications of cars that will be participating in the three days of racing in Long Beach.

That’s a lot of fuel for drivers who will end up in the same place they started, especially when seven weeks of war in the Middle East has driven the price of gasoline to record highs. However, the fuel the IndyCar series uses differs significantly from what that comes out of the pump at the gas station.

“This year marks the fourth season that IndyCar has used 100% renewable race fuel for the NTT IndyCar Series — the first motorsport series in North America to utilize this type of fuel,” an IndyCar spokesperson wrote in a statement. “Developed through a collaboration with Shell, this innovative fuel consists of a blend of second-generation ethanol derived from sugarcane waste and other biofuels mainly derived from animal waste. The use of this renewable race fuel enables a 60% reduction in life cycle greenhouse gas emissions.”

So while driving Indy cars 177 miles in a circle may seem wasteful during a gas crunch, Sunday’s race will have a negligible affect on the price and availability of fuel at service stations. The greater impact will be made by fans driving to Long Beach; last year’s three-day race weekend drew more than 200,000 people.

A brazen scammer allegedly charged a British tourist a staggering £1,500 for a kebab – and police near Copacabana beach, in Rio de Janeirom said the man was arrested

An unsuspecting tourist was hit with an eyewatering £1,500 charge for a kebab on a hugely popular tourist beach.

A scammer was arrested on the world famous Copacabana beach, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, after he and another person allegedly changed the price on a payment terminal and overcharged the victim by a staggering amount. The Brit reportedly ended up paying £1,480 (10,000 reais) for the meaty treat that should have set her back just £15 (100 reais). Police said the machine was allegedly tampered with and ended up charging the victim a much higher price than what she was told.

This comes as a wave of brazen conners have hit the popular Brazilian beaches in shallow attempts to swindle visitors. Brazilian police, in a statement, said: “We have arrested a criminal that carried out a card machine scam against a British female tourist in Copacabana.”

The detained man was reportedly part of an organised fraud scheme that targeted foreigners, mostly in Rio’s famous Ipanema and Copacabana areas, according to O Globo.

The head of Rio’s tourist police, Patricia Alemany, said her team (named DEAT) were working to find and detainee the people trying to con tourists out of their money, she told the Brazilian site.

She said: “DEAT has been repeatedly arresting these criminals. However, there is no oversight of street vendors on the beach, which creates an environment of public disorder and greatly facilitates this type of crime.”

Another woman was charged nearly £3,000 (20,000 reais) for corn on the cob which had been smothered in margarine. The woman, from Argentina, should have just paid £3 (20 reais) for the food. She said: “I don’t understand numbers in Portuguese. I don’t speak Portuguese.”

Another tourist, from Colombia, was shockingly charged about £400 (2,500 reais) for a caipirinha – a Brazilian cocktail made with a spirit, sugar and lime.

This comes after another shocking scam hit some tourists in Brazil. Last year, cases of “Goodnight Cinderella” spiking scams were reported, where holidaymakers fall for glamorous looking women, especially in Brazil, before they put powerful sedatives in victims’ drinks and then rob them once they pass out.

The scams led to several Brits finding themselves with money, belongings and passports taken by the women who often work in gangs in popular tourist locations like Rio da Janeiro.

Police in Brazil said that British tourists are seen as “easy prey” as they could be unaware to the dangers, often have expensive items on them as well as cash, and do not know the local area well.

A 21-year-old Brit spoke out about how he passed out after taking just a few sips of a drink on his holiday. He was later recorded collapsing unconscious on a Brazilian beach but was rescued by a Good Samaritan. The student revealed he was offered a Capriahna cocktail by a trio women before the incident.

WE all love a holiday abroad, but sometimes we forget what’s on our doorstep.

From beautiful beach towns to charming villages and incredible cities with luxury hotels to off-the-grid shepherd huts, the whole of Britain has options for every sort of staycation.

The UK staycation is on the rise, and has no signs of slowing down – the latest holiday report from Away Resorts revealed 46 per cent of Brits are opting for a staycation over an abroad break.

Sykes Holiday Cottages has also predicted a record high for staycations in 2026, reporting that bookings made in January are up 9 per cent year-on-year.

The conflict in Iran is also another factor when it comes to booking a break this year.

Data from Barclay’s has found that spending on travel agents has dropped 4.6 per cent, while airline spending was down 4.1 per cent.

SIGHT SEA

£9.50 holidaymakers’ favourite Skegness activities… away from the beach

GRUBS UP

Best pubs, fish and chip shops and cafes in Sussex – by Sun readers & locals

Spending on UK hotels and resorts was up 1.2 per cent.

So, if you’re looking for inspiration for your next staycation, check out these 12 destinations that are Sun Travel’s wish list for 2026…

Nici Hotel, Bournemouth

“One of my favourite places in the US is Miami – so when I heard there was a hotel in the UK compared to it, I’ve been intrigued ever since.

“The Nici, in Bournemouth, is nothing like the Bournemouth I knew growing up when visiting my grandparents. 

“There’s a bright blue water swimming pool lined with pearly white sunloungers and flamingos, while palm tree designs and plants are everywhere too.

“I’m dying to eat at their South Beach restaurant too – the scallops and tuna tartare sounds delicious, as well as the ‘lost luggage’ signature cocktail list.” – Kara Godfrey, Deputy Travel Editor

Fort William, Scotland

“The higher you go, the better the views… surely? At least that’s what I’ll be telling myself when I eventually attempt to climb the tallest mountain in the UK, Ben Nevis.

“Towering a mighty 1,345 metres above sea level, this craggy peak trumps both Snowdonia in Wales and the Lake District’s Scafell Pike. Much of Scotland remains so rugged and unspoilt that the landscape in these parts feels somewhat otherworldly – which certainly adds to the appeal.

“It supposedly takes between seven and nine hours to reach the summit, meaning I could spend the remainder of my Scotland trip rewarding my efforts with whisky from the Ben Nevis Distillery, in Fort William.

“The distilling process incorporates the purest water that has trickled down from that very mountain, adding an earthy flavour to the spirit.” – Sophie Swietochowski, Assistant Travel Editor

Cragside, Northumberland

“There are National Trust properties all over the UK, but Cragside in Northumberland is the one that stands out to me.

“The house itself is considered Britain’s original smart home and it sits in a beautiful estate with pine forests, lakes and an enchanting rickety bridge.

“Plus, I’m a huge fan of Jurassic World – the house was used to film the second film in the franchise with when it became Lockwood Manor, starring Chris Pratt and Bryce Dallas Howard.

“There’s even a cottage on the site of the mansion to stay in – it looks quintessentially English with a little fireplace in the cosy lounge.”

“The National Trust house is also 30-minutes away from pretty coastal villages like Alnmouth and the town of Amble.” – Alice Penwill, Travel Reporter

Here are even more of our favourite UK seaside towns…

*If you click on a link in this box, we will earn affiliate revenue.

Sidmouth, Devon
Take a trip to Sidmouth on the Jurassic Coast and wander down Jacob’s Ladder to its pretty shingle beach. Make sure to walk along the promenade and check out the independent shops and boutiques. Stay at the four-star Harbour Hotel for sea views and traditional afternoon tea from £135 per room.

BOOK A STAY

Whitby, North Yorkshire
With a history of sailors and vampires, a dramatic coastal path, and the very best in pints and scampi, it takes a lot to beat Whitby. Pop in the amusements, eat award-winning fish and chips, and board the all-singing Captain Cook boat tour on the harbour. The Royal Hotel overlooks the harbour with stays from just £68 per room.

BOOK A STAY

Old Hunstanton, Norfolk
This town has some of the best beach walks beside striped limestone cliffs, a Victorian lighthouse and 13th century ruins. The beach has golden sands with rolling dunes and colourful beach huts, backed by a pretty pinewood forest. Stay at a beachfront hotel from £100 per room.

BOOK A STAY

Seahouses, Northumberland
This is an authentic British seaside break, with fishing boats bobbing on its pretty harbour and fresh catches of the day to enjoy in local restaurants. There’s no flashing arcades here, but there’s a great beach with rockpools, boat trips, and you may even spot a grey seal, too. Treat yourself to a stay at the Bamburgh Castle Inn from £129 per room.

BOOK A STAY

Bluestone, Pembrokeshire

“Having written about it for several years now, I’m very keen to check
out Bluestone in Wales – which many people say is a better, cheaper
version of Center Parcs.

“I’m particularly interested in staying here because it has the best of
both worlds for my son and I – the blue lagoon water park and indoor
adventure park for him, the spa and the walks in the surrounding
Pembrokeshire Coast National Park for me.

“I know that they are particularly proud of their Christmas offering,
but I love Wales in the early autumn.

“When the leaves start to fall and the pubs get particularly cosy, it’s
the perfect place for a relaxing long weekend.” – Caroline McGuire, Head of Sun Travel (Digital)

Ventnor, Isle of Wight

“Trendy Ventnor in the Isle of Wight is high up on my wish list for a UK staycation this year.

“Charles Dickens is even known to have declared the town ‘the prettiest place I ever saw in my life, at home or abroad’.

“Such high praise is reason enough for me to want to go and check it out – but as it turns out there is plenty more to V-Town.

“The seaside town is known for its thriving creative scene, with top-tier theatre, comedy and arts festivals. Ventnor Carnival is the second oldest carnival in the UK, and sees the town light up with colourful floats, costumes and performances.

“When it comes to somewhere to stay, The Royal Hotel was built in 1832 and was loved by Queen Victoria – plus its got a gorgeous pool and gardens to make use of if you visit in the summer time.

“And I’d treat myself to a meal in The Elderflower and Aquitania, too, for a delicious Michelin-star dinner.” – Jenna Stevens, Travel Reporter

Cambridge, Cambridgeshire

“Last year I ticked off Oxford, so it only seems right that this year I tick off Cambridge. 

“Known for its historic university, often ranked one of the best in the world, Cambridge is the ideal day trip or city escape from London, just 49 minutes from London King’s Cross.

“As a big fan of architecture, I can’t wait to see the historic buildings scattered around the city as well as go punting on the River Cam.

“I’m also such a sucker for shopping local, so heading down the different cobbled lanes dipping in and out of independent shops sounds like a dream.” – Cyann Fielding, Travel Reporter

Scilly Isles, Cornwall

“The Scilly Isles, a short ferry ride from Penzance in Cornwall, are sometimes overlooked by wildlife lovers for more exotic and far-flung destinations.

“But marine life absolutely thrives in these parts. Puffins are top of my animal wish list and now is the best time to see them, with the orange-beaked birds arriving on the coastal cliffs in April to nest before returning to the waters in July.

“The best way to see them is on a boat trip sailing around the uninhabited island of Annet – you may even get to see dolphins, whales and grey seals, too.

“The Scillies are completely car-free and camping and glamping spots are aplenty.

“I like the idea of a cosy shepherd’s hut with a roaring log burner and plenty of windows overlooking rustic scenery.” – Sophie Swietochowski, Assistant Travel Editor

York, North Yorkshire

“Having grown up near the Devonshire Street, which is thought to have inspired Diagon Alley in Harry Potter, I have always been intrigued by the city that also claims fame via the Harry Potter series.

“If you haven’t guessed it, it is York. The association is primarily due to The Shambles, a medieval street boasting wizard-themed shops and themed walking tours.

“As a lover of all things witchy, I am also intrigued to see if the city lives up to its reputation as one of the most haunted cities in Europe.” – Cyann Fielding, Travel Reporter

Clovelly, Devon

“A countryside girl at heart, I love visiting little villages and Clovelly is one of the best. It was even formerly owned by the Queen of England.

“It has pretty cobbled streets and stone cottages that are hundreds of years old. The restored walled Court Gardens are open all year round filled with flowers and greenery.

“The village is completely car free and donkeys were once used as their mode of transport. Now, the donkeys are settled in their stables at the top of the hill and tourists are free to visit Rex, Bert, Ernie and Alfred.

“I love the idea of staying in the local inn called The Red Lion Hotel in a room overlooking the harbour.

“Unlike other villages around the country, you actually need to pay a fee to enter that all goes towards preserving its charm.” – Alice Penwill, Travel Reporter

Lake District, Cumbria

“I’m keen to take my son on more outdoor adventures this year and where
better to start than the Lake District?

“As the UK’s largest park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it feels
like the perfect place to introduce a seven year old to enjoyable but
easygoing hikes.

“But it’s also exceptionally child-friendly. We’ll start on Windermere and Bowness, making sure to check to take one of the kayaks on the lake, as well as a visit to The World of Beatrix Potter, and Brockhole on Windermere, with its adventure playground and treetop adventure.

“I’m also very keen on the alpaca walks around the stunning grounds of
The Lingholm Estate. I’ve heard some great things about a few of the campsites, including Castlerigg Hall and the National Trust’s Low Wray Campsite.

“But I’d also be hoping for a couple of nights at the lovely Storrs Hall hotel
on Lake Windermere.” – Caroline McGuire, Head of Sun Travel (Digital)

Buxton, Derbyshire

“I grew up in the Cotswolds, so my love of a pretty town is built deep into my DNA. And one on my list to visit this year is the spa town of Buxton, famed for its geothermal springs.

“Similar to Bath, it even has its own Buxton crescent of houses, and wellness spa with thermal pools.

“It’s set to have a multi-million makeover with new bars, shops and restaurants, so there’s no time better to visit. I’d definitely be choosing to stay at the Buxton Crescent Hotel too, owned by Champneys.” – Kara Godfrey, Deputy Travel Editor

Ballycastle, Northern Ireland

“Ballycastle sits on Northern Ireland‘s epic Causeway Coast, and is home to some seriously spectacular nature.

“I’d first set out on a hike to Fair Head – a huge, dramatic cliff where rugged walking paths lead to breath-taking views over the waters of Murlough Bay.

“Then I’d head to Ursa Minor Bakehouse for a well-deserved snack to re-fuel – their freshly-baked pastries are slow fermented and made with nourishing whole grains.

“A visit to Ballycastle isn’t complete without a trip to the beach – I’d make sure to visit Ballycastle Beach, and take some sunset pictures at Pans Rock bridge, too.

“I’d also use Ballycastle as a base to tick off some spectacular nearby sights on the Antrim Coast. Here you’re only 10 minutes away from Carrick-a-Rede, the historic rope bridge suspended above the Atlantic.

“Plus it’s easy to take the ferry from here to Rathlin Island, where you can spot puffins perched atop its cliffs, or see seals poke their noses out from the water.” Jenna Stevens, Travel Reporter

For more staycation inspiration, here is one Travel Reporter’s favourite English village under an hour from London that’s the perfect day out.

And here are 11 of the best English towns for a day trip from historic markets to trendy seasides.

©News Group Newspapers Limited in England No. 679215 Registered office: 1 London Bridge Street, London, SE1 9GF. “The Sun”, “Sun”, “Sun Online” are registered trademarks or trade names of News Group Newspapers Limited. This service is provided on News Group Newspapers’ Limited’s Standard Terms and Conditions in accordance with our Privacy & Cookie Policy. To inquire about a licence to reproduce material, visit our Syndication site. View our online Press Pack. For other inquiries, Contact Us. To see all content on The Sun, please use the Site Map. The Sun website is regulated by the Independent Press Standards Organisation (IPSO)

Our journalists strive for accuracy but on occasion we make mistakes. For further details of our complaints policy and to make a complaint please click this link: thesun.co.uk/editorial-complaints/

SPAIN’S popularity might often leave you feeling like there isn’t a part of the country that is untouched and unexplored.

But just over an hour’s drive from Seville, you’ll find the much quieter coastal town of Mazagón.

The town of Mazagon dates back to the 14th century, when it used to be a fishing village.

It was initially a popular holiday destination for rich Spanish families from the nearby cities, and even now just a few thousand people live there.

According to The Telegraph, it is still more popular with Spaniards than Brits.

They said: “The low-key town is popular with Huelva locals, but it’s still relatively undiscovered by holidaymakers from the rest of Spain, let alone Britain.”

Read more on travel inspo

CHEAP BREAKS

UK’s best 100 cheap stays – our pick of the top hotels, holiday parks and pubs

BUNNY WELL SPENT

Cheapest Easter days out whatever the weather & FREE kids activities

It largely remains untouched for two reasons – one being strict planning rules that ban anything from being built higher than three-storeys high.

Not only that, but the area is protected due to sitting near the Donana National Park.

The largest nature reserve in Europe, it is home to a number of endangered species including the Spanish imperial eagle and the Iberian lynx.

One of the main attractions of the town itself is the 3.4mile beach, backed by rocky, sandstone cliffs.

At the western end of the town, close to the marina, Playa de Mazagón is built up enough to have things like showers, sunloungers and parking facilities.

One tourist said it “offers a peaceful escape from crowded tourist spots,” while others said the calm waters made it ideal for families with young kids.

Along the beach you might also spot ‘chiringuitos’ – small, wooden hut beach bars – usually serving tapas and drinks.

Moving westwards from the town, the Playa de Mazagón leads into Playa de las Dunas – a quieter spot, with a number of villas littered at its edge.

Head even further west and you will reach Playa de Alcor which is a more rural beach that is backed by pine woods and sand dunes.

Don’t expect the beaches to have a promenade, instead you can explore then via wooden boardwalks.

The town centre itself is relatively small, but there are a number of sites worth visiting such as Ermita del Carmen chapel, which was restored in 2014, or the more modern Sagrados Corazones.

There’s also the Mazagón Lighthouse, dating back to 1861 and is still in use – and is bizarrely built 600metres inland.

When it comes to grabbing a bite to eat, the town has many tapas bars where each dish can cost as little as €4 (£3.49), such as cheese croquettes and calamari.

At most bars and restaurants you can expect to pay a couple of euros for a beer.

If you are looking for a place to stay, you can’t get much closer to the beach than Playa de Mazagon Camping which is right on the sand.

There are a range of different accommodation options at the site including bell tents for between two and six people, a two-person cabin and camping pitches.

The campsite also boasts an outdoor swimming pool with a pirate ship, a restaurant and bar, sports courts and a playground.

A bell tent for two people costs as little as €50 (£43.63) per night and the two-person cabin costs from €60 (£52.35) per night.

If you fancy exploring further afield then you could head to the port city of Huelva, just a 20-minute drive away.

The city is famous for being the departure point for Christopher Columbus‘s first voyage to the Americas.

The easiest way to get from the UK to Mazagon is by flying to either Seville or Faro in Portugal – both taking just under three hours.

Flights from the UK to Faro cost as little as £13 one-way in April and May.

Once in Faro, you can either drive or hop on a bus for an hour-and-a-half, costing £16 per way.

Alternatively, if you head to Seville, flights from the UK cost from £15 in May and from the airport it is then an hour-and-20-minute drive or bus journey, which would cost around £6 per way.

For more Spanish destinations, Spain’s hottest city has £2.50 wine and £15 flights.

Plus, the beach city in Spain that ‘has it all’ with flights from £15 – and is loved by A Place in the Sun stars.

FANCY a weekend exploring a new city in Europe?

You don’t have to spend a fortune or hours flying to have an amazing holiday.

Luckily there’s loads of amazing and affordable European cities right on our doorstep – and with cheap and speedy flights, you can tick them off more easily than you’d think.

With delicious street food, cheap beers and plenty of local history, these European city breaks will give you a short haul holiday to look forward to – all for less than £100 per person.

We’ve found destinations you can visit for two nights from £99 or under, including popular capital cities you can tick off your bucket list – plus all of the best things to see and do there.

So whether you want to explore hidden ruin bars in Budapest, catch sunsets at the beach in the Algarve, or visit quirky art galleries in Madrid, these breaks have something for everyone.

Here are 10 European gems where £99 covers both your flights and hotel, leaving you with more to spend when you land.

Prices were correct at time of publication.

Madrid – £99pp

For a sunny city break that’s big on style but easy on the wallet, Madrid is a total winner.

Spain‘s capital has masses of world-class art and architecture to explore.

To tick off some of the top sights, take in the regal beauty of the grand Palacio Real (The Royal Palace of Madrid), or visit the 15th-century Plaza Mayor to get into the real heart of Madrid.

The magnificent views don’t stop there. Make sure to take a visit to the 125 hectare El Retiro Park, where a visit to the stunning glass Crystal Palace won’t cost you a penny.

Art lovers can also hit the so-called Golden Triangle of galleries for free if they time it right.

The world-famous Prado offers free entry from 6 – 8pm from Monday – Saturday, whilst the Reina Sofía opens for free from 7pm Monday – Saturday (excluding Tuesdays).

The Thyssen-Bornemisza completes the trio, with free entry on Mondays and on Saturdays from 9pm.

Then, when hunger hits, skip the tourist traps and join the locals on Calle de la Cava Baja – one of the area’s most lively streets – for a tapas crawl, or grab a legendary calamari sandwich at La Campana for around €4.

Getting around is a breeze, too. While the city is incredibly walkable, the speedy Metro offers a 10-trip pass for just €7.30 (£6.36), plus kids under four travel for free.

Berlin – £89pp

Effortlessly cool and cost-friendly, Berlin is packed with things to see and do that won’t cost you a penny.

You can walk through the giant monument Brandenburg Gate, walk the 1,316 metre-long open-air East Side Gallery, or catch a free lunchtime concert at the Berlin Philharmonie at 1pm on Wednesdays.

For the largest open space in the city, head to Tempelhofer Feld. It’s a massive former airport where locals enjoy cycling, skating, jogging and cooking together in the BBQ zone. It’s the ultimate free hangout in the heart of the city.

Going for a night out in Berlin is a must. If you like your music loud and your beer cheap, go to Clash in Kreuzberg. It’s a legendary gritty spot with alternative music and affordable pints.

Prague – £99pp

Visit Prague for a city with a fairytale feel that won’t blow your budget.

To see the city at its best, set an early alarm to walk Charles Bridge at sunrise before the crowds arrive, or wander the sprawling Prague Castle courtyards and the peacock-filled Wallenstein Palace Gardens for free.

To sample some of Prague‘s best budget-friendly food, hunt down a deli for a traditional open-faced chlebíček sandwich for about CZK 30 (£1.09) or grab a massive slab of smažený sýr (fried cheese) from a street stall for around CZK 135 (£4.80).

One of the best ways to see the city is to hop on Tram 22. It’s essentially a sightseeing tour that goes past the National Theatre and right up to the gates of Prague Castle.

A standard 30-minute ticket costs 36 CZK (£1.28).

Budapest – £99pp

If you’re after a holiday with a high-end feel that won’t break the bank, Budapest is for you.

Hike up Gellért Hill for a panoramic sunset, or explore the fairytale lower turrets of Fisherman’s Bastion for free.

You’re not short of options when it comes to street food in Budapest. Head to the Great Market Hall to grab a massive, garlic-rubbed lángos (deep-fried flatbread) from 900 HUF (£2.04).

Plus no visit to Budapest is complete without trying a cylinder-shaped chimney cake, which you can buy from vendors across the city for around 1,000 HUF (£2.27).

A relaxing trip to the thermal baths is another must when in Budapest. Dandar is the cheapest option, and even cheaper if you visit on a weekday. An adult ticket costs 3,500 HUF (£8.08) during the week compared to 4,000 HUF (£9.23) on weekends and public holidays.

When night falls, dive into the legendary Jewish Quarter ruin pubs like Szimpla Kert, where you can grab a local pint amidst a maze of quirky, recycled decor.

Krakow – £99pp

Krakow is a European city that’s known for its affordability and great nights out – what more could you want from a city break?

Head to Wawel Royal Hill, where the castle courtyards and the fire-breathing dragon statue are free to visit, before crossing into the Kazimierz district to see its bohemian courtyard cafes and street art.

Plus you can visit the Rynek Underground Museum on a Tuesday for free entry, or take a walk through the Planty Park, a belt of vibrant green that surrounds the Old Town where the medieval defensive walls used to be.

For a lunch that costs less than a coffee back at home, hit a Milk Bar like Pod Temidą for a huge plate of pierogi for 29 zł (under £5.89), or grab a zapiekanka (a pizza-like giant baguette) in Plac Nowy for around £3.

Drinks are a steal too, with local beers in the city’s famous cellar bars still priced around £2.20.

Lloret de Mar, Spain – £77pp

Who can say no to a sun-soaked weekend away in Spain from just £77pp?

Follow the Camino de Ronda coastal path for a cliffside trail that leads to hidden, turquoise coves like Trons Bay and the peaceful Fenals Beach.

For even more beautiful views, explore the Santa Clotilde Gardens, where Renaissance-style terraces overlook the sea, or visit the colourful Sant Romà Church in the town centre.

When you get hungry, avoid the beachfront tourist traps and look for a Menu del Día in the backstreets, where you can get three courses and authentic dishes including seafood or paella from just €10 (£8.71).

The nightlife here is legendary for a reason – you can find bars offering cocktails for £5 and beers for under £3 at your pick of spots along the strip.

And if you’ve got time after all of those adventures, take the local Dolfi boat taxi to the nearby medieval town of Tossa de Mar for €30.40 (£26.46) return. It’s a scenic coastal cruise and a day trip to a castle overlooking the beach all in one.

Salou, Spain – £92pp

Big on thrills and little on costs, Salou is the crown jewel of Spain’s Costa Dorada.

For the best coastal views, walk the Camí de Ronda and dip into glimmering turquoise coves like Cala Crancs.

For an exciting day out, PortAventura World is renowned for its theme parks with rollercoasters and water parks with giant slides all in one place. You can grab a day pass from TUI for £37 per adult and £32 per child.

For a spectacular and free evening activity, head to the Jaume I Promenade to catch the Cybernetic Fountains – a vibrant display of water, music, and laser lights.

The nightlife here is famous for its value, with bars along the Carrer de Saragossa offering pints for €2 (£1.74) and free shots to get the party started.

For a slice of history, take a short bus ride to the nearby city of Tarragona where you can explore its UNESCO-listed Roman amphitheatre by the sea, and cool off with a gelato in the historic Old Town.

Le Raincy, France – £96pp

Le Raincy is a lesser-known French destination just 30 minutes from the Gare du Nord in Paris.

Its crown jewel is the Notre-Dame du Raincy – a modern church built entirely of concrete that shines with light thanks to its stunning floor-to-ceiling stained glass. Plus it’s completely free to visit.

Here you can wander the leafy, tranquil streets of this so-called garden city, a slice of peace and quiet away from the pace of central Paris.

For an authentic and affordable lunch, grab a freshly-baked baguette and some local cheese from a boulangerie on Avenue de la Résistance.

In the evenings there are plenty of cosy bars to dip into, like Le 40, where you can enjoy a glass of French wine and some charcuterie without the “tourist tax” of the city centre.

Lastminute.com offer a 2-night stay at Zenao Appart’hôtels Le Raincy Thiers, including return flights from Birmingham, for £96pp.

San Antonio, Ibiza – £95pp

If you want the White Isle experience without the price tag, San Antonio is the way to go.

Start evenings on the legendary Sunset Strip, where crowds gather on the rocks to watch everything from the sun dipping into the Mediterranean to a world-class DJ.

Or head to the Kumharas beach bar and market for a hippy vibe with live music, again perfect for watching the sunset.

Cocktails here will set you back €14 (around £12), but for the stunning views and beach club atmosphere, it’s very affordable compared to elsewhere in Ibiza.

To get your steps in and culture fix at the same time, follow a free street art tour through the town’s backstreets.

The nightlife in the West End is where the real savings are, with many bars offering “pre-club” drink deals that are a fraction of the £15+ you’d pay for inside the big venues.

Albufeira, Portugal – £95pp

Albufeira is one of the most affordable holiday destinations in the Algarve, and it’s equally as beautiful as it is budget-friendly.

Spend days exploring the whitewashed alleys of the Old Town, or wandering through rock tunnels to reach the golden sands of Praia dos Pescadores.

Plus the Pau da Bandeira viewpoint makes for the ultimate postcard-like photo of the coastline.

When night falls, the neon-lit strip in Montechoro is the place for bargain hunters, with happy hour pints at spots like Rock Time starting from just €1.95 (£1.70).

When it comes to transport, avoid the pricey taxi ranks and use the Giro local bus network to reach spots like the spectacular Praia da Falésia, with its red cliffs and endless golden sands.

AS Tom Hardy enjoys a spot of Spring sunshine in Barbados during a relaxing holiday with his wife Charlotte Riley, the actor has shown off his impressive tattoo collection.

The Mobland star, 48, has over 30 inks across his chest and arms, all of which could be seen as he hit the beach on Tuesday.

Donning a pair of Venum UFC shorts, Tom and his other half enjoyed dips in the sea and sunbathed on the sand while joined by their kids.

Actress Charlotte, who has appeared in series such as Peaky Blinders, donned a black bikini top with a pair of monochrome string-tie bottoms.

The couple have been together since 2009 and married since 2014, sharing a daughter and a son together.

Tom is also a dad to 18-year-old son Louis, whom he shares with ex Rachael Speed.

BECK & CALL

David & Victoria ‘offer to meet Brooklyn with lawyers or therapist to end feud’

ON HOLD

Anthea Turner postpones wedding for a FOURTH time – 7 years after engagement

Tom’s entire upper half is adorned with tattoos, with the actor going for his first ink – an Irish Leprechaun – at the age of 15.

The tat was a nod to his mother’s Irish heritage, with each one of his body art with a meaning behind it.

A Union Jack sits above his heart, which he has previously said is to “remind me where I come from”, whilst the words “Padre Fiero”, which translate to “proud father” are above the flag.

One of Tom’s tattoos, which sits on his right bicep, is a tribute to Hollywood pal Leonardo DiCaprio – after Tom lost a bet to his The Revenant co-star.

In 2016, Leo was certain that Tom would bag an Oscar nomination, while Tom said he definately would not.

The pair wagered a tattoo on it, and when Tom was nominated for the Best Supporting Actor gong at the Oscars, he agreed to get the ink.

Now, his right arm clearly reads: “Leo knows all” in large writing.

Leo isn’t the only one to get a permanent tribute, with Tom’s ex-wife, Sarah Ward, the inspiration behind the writing on his lower abdomen.

“Till I die SW,” reads the ink.

His current wife Charlotte also has a place on his body, with her name emblazoned across his shoulder.

Tom has several tattoos written in Italian, despite having no known ties to Italy.

A five-star Haven holiday park is packed with family-friendly activities, and best of all it has direct beach access with a long stretch of sand to enjoy

The UK has loads of great holiday parks to choose from, and they’re a practical option for families who’d like cost-effective accommodation, plenty of activities, and a lively atmosphere.

If you’re looking for a staycation for May half-term or the summer holidays, then this may be the perfect option for families with school aged kids. Set on a beautiful sandy beach, this holiday park has a 5-star rating from the AA, who called it “a very popular park with many guests returning every year”.

Perran Sands Holiday Park in Cornwall sits on 500-acres of grassland and sand dunes, and if you walk through the grassy paths you’ll reach the vast sandy beach that stretches over three-miles. The sand is soft and fine, and when the tide is out rockpools full of tiny sea creatures are uncovered. The park even offers surfing lessons for those who’ve always wanted to try catching a wave.

The sea can be quite choppy at Perran Sands, and although there is a lifeguard on duty at peak times, you may prefer to take a dip in the pool instead. On chilly days holidaymakers can enjoy the indoor pool with its own flume ride, while in the summer months, the outdoor pool is a great place to cool off. There’s also an outdoor lazy river where swimmers can float around and enjoy the sunshine.

Back on dry land, guests can book a round of crazy golf, enjoy the NERF Training Camp, hire go-karts, or take part in fun outdoor activities such as den building. In the evenings, entertainment includes appearances from Haven’s seaside squad. There are also lots of options for dinner, including the Surf Bay Café which has a Cornwall-style interior including its own campervan, and a brand new branch of popular US-chain Slim Chickens.

Like most Haven parks, Perran Sands has a number of accommodation options. You can book a 4-night break in a saver caravan from £49, and other budget-friendly options include yurts and geo-domes, some of which are right on the seafront. The park also has lodges, chalets, and three-bedroom beach houses which offer sea views and sun decks.

Walk along the seafront for about half and hour and you can visit nearby Perranporth. This charming seaside town is full of souvenir and surf shops, relaxed pubs, fish and chip shops, and tearooms. About a 20-minute drive away is Newquay, famous for its beautiful beaches and for being a surfers paradise.

Visit Newquay Zoo, a compact but fun zoo in the gardens of Trenance Park, or explore the 16th-century Trerice manor house. The Blue Reef Aquarium is also popular with families thanks to its wide range of colourful sea creatures on display, while the Oasis Fun Pools offer indoor and outdoor slides, rapids, and more.

Find out more about Perran Sands and book your break here. Of course it’s not the only tempting offering in Cornwall; there are a wealth of different sites where families can find bargain breaks too. Away Resorts for example has a St Ives Bay site with private access to a three-mile-long sandy beach, while Parkdean Resorts has budget-friendly midweek breaks as well as new all-inclusive packages for families wanting to stretch their holiday budget that little bit further.

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

Is it possible to have a luxury staycation with the kids in tow? This hotel offers a range of features to make family holidays more fun, including complimentary childcare for kid-free time

If you’re looking for a family staycation that’s close to the coast, yet also has plenty for the kids to do, and even gives you the chance for some child-free time, then read on.

A hotel in Dorset is offering luxury family-friendly accommodation overlooking spectacular Chesil Beach, with lots of thoughtful touches to make your time away easier. Moonfleet Manor is set in a beautiful Georgian property and is an excellent place to explore the Jurassic Coast.

While we all love spending time with our kids on holiday, one of the main services that’s bound to appeal to worn-out parents is the hotel’s Four Bears Den Kids Club.

This Ofsted-registered onsite club takes care of kids from three months to eight years, and all guests get a complimentary two-hour session per night’s stay, starting at either 9.30am or 2.30pm. This gives you kid-free time to enjoy a romantic stroll, have a spa treatment, or just read a book in peace.

In the evenings, you can also hire a video monitor for free, so while the kids nap in the room, you can enjoy a nightcap. The hotel also offers a babysitting service for an additional fee if you want to explore the local area.

During the school holidays and weekends, the kids club offers a program of activities designed for family fun, from toasting marshmallows to scavenger hunts, so all ages can enjoy quality time together.

Just a short walk from the hotel is an indoor pool available for guests to enjoy throughout their stay, plus there’s a sauna and the option to book spa treatments for the grown-ups, including facials and ocean-inspired rituals.

Kids can enjoy the colourful play barn, where you’ll find an under-5s play area, table tennis, arcade games, and even a hands-on Science Room for young Einsteins to play in.

The problem with some family hotels is that they tend to focus just on practicalities, and they can be quite dull for adults. But Moonfleet Manor has a luxury, design-led style, so rooms are inviting whether you are staying as a couple or with kids.

There are also two-bedroom family rooms available that offer a separate sleeping area for the kids. This means you can tuck them away in bed and enjoy your evening without worrying about keeping them awake.

The hotel overlooks the unspoiled shingle shores of Chesil Beach, an 18-mile stretch of seafront that’s full of incredible fossils and spectacular scenery. Between the beach and the hotel is the Fleet Lagoon, a marine-protected area full of wildlife and seabirds, so you can’t walk directly onto the shingle from Moonfleet. However, you can drive a short distance to Abbotsbury or Portland for a beach walk or fossil hunt.

READ MORE: EasyJet launches UK flights to underrated European city with 300 days of sunshineREAD MORE: 5 price increases Brits face on holidays this year from tourist taxes to flights

Less than 20 minutes away is the seaside town of Weymouth, a family favorite for many generations. Here you’ll find a SEALIFE Center, Sandworld – an impressive collection of sand sculptures and castles, and the sandy Weymouth Beach, which is set in a cove, so kids can paddle and swim on sunny days.

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

The iconic Dorset beach featured in one of the most emotional scenes in Ryan Gosling’s new film, and fans are now visiting the picturesque Jurassic Coast location for spring walks

One of the most iconic coastal spots was recently featured in Ryan Gosling’s latest film, Project Hail Mary, and the good news is it’s located right here in the UK for those who want to visit.

There’s always a thrill when you recognise a familiar location in a film or TV programme, whether it’s a documentary or the backdrop for a fictional tale. While the UK serves as a popular setting for numerous blockbuster films and television series, one of this year’s biggest cinema releases actually filmed one of its most memorable scenes in the UK – and it’s accessible to visit right now as a stunning walking destination.

That’s precisely what one London-based couple decided to do, bringing their dog, Presto, along to the Jurassic Coast near Lulworth in Dorset to see the Project Hail Mary filming location after recently watching the film at the cinema.

“Cried at the cinema at this beach so we went in real life,” they captioned their video, before sharing footage from their day trip adventure.

Without giving away any spoilers, the beach serves as a significant location for one of the film’s characters, with several of the more poignant scenes captured here, making it particularly meaningful for fans to experience. That said, the breathtaking views alone make the journey worthwhile.

Durdle Door stands as one of Dorset’s most photographed and iconic landmarks. Situated on the Lulworth Estate in south Dorset, it forms part of the stunning Jurassic Coast.

The coastline holds such exceptional geological significance on the world stage that UNESCO designated it as England’s first natural World Heritage Site in 2001, placing it alongside iconic natural treasures such as America’s Grand Canyon and Australia’s Great Barrier Reef.

The stunning natural limestone arch was created when powerful waves eroded the rock and carved a hole through its centre. The name Durdle comes from the old English word ‘thirl’, meaning to pierce, bore or drill.

The film also features the neighbouring Man O’ War Beach, which visitors can normally reach via a footpath. However, the pair revealed that during their late March visit, storm damage had swept away the steps leading down to this beach, rendering it currently inaccessible.

Still, they weren’t bothered, as they were able to take in the spectacular views from the clifftops overlooking the beach.

How do you get to the Jurassic Coast? If you’re travelling by car, you can park at the sizeable car park reached through Durdle Door Holiday Park. From there, it’s a 15-minute walk down a steep path to the steps above the beach.

For those without a car, the iconic landmark is also reachable by bus, with a brief journey from Wool in Dorset taking you straight to the beaches.

The London pair weren’t alone in their admiration for the landmark, as numerous others quickly flooded the comment section to share their own visits.

“Went back in 2022 and loved it, need to go back again now that I saw it in the film,” one person wrote. Someone else added: “I wish I hadn’t seen that this was in the movie before we saw it but it was special seeing it with my boys who I took there in 2022.”

This seaside hotel is arguably one of the most famous in the UK, and it overlooks the city’s long shingle beach and lively promenade, as well as being just steps from the easily-recognised pier

A weekend at a seaside hotel is a classic British staycation. From windswept walks on the promenade to fish and chips on the beach, it’s fun no matter what the weather.

Seaside accommodation can vary massively from independent B&Bs to chains, and a recent article by Which? uncovered some of its inspectors’ favorite seaside hotels from across the UK, with properties from Fife to Kent making the list.

However, clinching the number one spot is a five-star property that overlooks the famous Brighton Beach. The Grand is over 155-years old, and has had a complete refurb in recent years, restoring much of the former glory to this long-running hotel.

READ MORE: Beautiful city named world’s best destination for food – with flights from £31READ MORE: Charming UK village has cobbled streets, historic pubs and is near to beach

Even among Brighton’s long promenade which hosts many huge hotels, the Grand stands out as a landmark of the city. Its marble columns and iron balconies harking back to when Brighton was a stylish seaside destination for Victorians.

The hotel has over 200 rooms, from simple doubles with comfy beds to grand sea-view suites, and each room has suitably nautical colors and touches that will get you in the mood for seaside fun.

Downstairs, guests can relax in the thermal suite with a hydrotherapy pool, jacuzzi, and steam room, or can book a spa treatment such as a facial or massage, the perfect end to a long day exploring the city. It also has a stylish restaurant overlooking the seafront, where you can enjoy a classic afternoon tea or a dinner menu featuring freshly caught seafood.

Staying at the Grand means you’re just a short stroll from many of Brighton’s attractions. Brighton Palace Pier is a must-see. Dating back to 1899, it’s another example of Brighton’s ornate Victorian architecture, and you can enjoy amusements, fairground rides, bars, and colourful end-of-the-pier shows.

Explore the Royal Pavilion and gardens, a unique Regency-era palace inspired by Indian architecture. This ornate building is often compared to the Taj Mahal on the outside thanks to its dramatic domes and minarets. A newer addition to the skyline is the Brighton i360, an observation tower that gently lifts visitors 138-metres into the sky. Walk around the glass viewing pod and you can enjoy sea views on one side and the city and the South Downs on the other.

Holidaymakers bringing kids along, or just those who love seeing colourful creatures, will enjoy SEA LIFE Brighton. It’s the world’s oldest continuously-running aquarium, having been open since 1872, and includes the classic glass tunnel for spotting sea animals up close.

READ MORE: EasyJet’s new domestic £31 flight goes to airport by UK’s most beautiful beachesREAD MORE: Major European airline lets passengers bring dogs in the cabin for first time

The Lanes and North Laine are also must-visit areas when you spend a weekend in Brighton. North Laine is full of colourful independent shops offering vintage clothes, unique household items, and artworks, while The Lanes include boutique shops, stylish cafés and upmarket restaurants. As the name implies, these are found down narrow, pedestrianised streets where you can wander for hours and find the city’s hidden gems.

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