beauty

ACTRESS Sydney Sweeney scores a hat-trick in a selection of outfits in one day.

The 28-year-old was spotted switching up her style in New York City while promoting her boxing biopic Christy.

As well as the three outfits pictured, Sydney changed into three more throughout the day for a total of six.

Actress Sydney described her latest role as “one of the most inspiring” experiences of her life.

Talking of the female boxer she said: “Christy’s strength isn’t in all of her punches it’s in her heart.”

Sydney became emotional as she detailed how Christy was shot and stabbed in the chest and left for dead after threatening to leave her abusive spouse.

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She added: “Every one of us has our own fight.

“Christy reminds us strength doesn’t have to look loud sometimes, it’s just about getting up again and again no matter who is watching.

“Playing her taught me it isn’t the end of the story, it’s about re-claiming it.

“And to every young girl out there I hope that you know your power is already within you.”

In her latest film, Christy, she learned to box to play US pro fighter Christy Martin — the first female boxer to appear on the cover of Sports Illustrated.

She won a world title before her husband tried to murder her.

VICTORIA Beckham has lost a trademark war against a beauty brand — because she is not famous enough in Norway.

Posh Spice argued that Norwegian firm Vendela Beauty’s VB logo would be confused with her global brand.

She claimed both the designs were dominated by the ­letters VB, the layout was almost identical, and both businesses sell similar products.

The fashion designer, 51, provided Instagram followers, international magazine features and sales figures to prove she had a big presence in the country.

But Norway’s patent body decided that there was not enough evidence her brand was well-known enough in the Nordic state — and ruled they were ­different enough to avoid confusion.

Ex-swimwear model Vendela Kirsebom had filed a trademark application in September 2021 for her beauty brand, which sells a range of skincare, makeup, hair care and ­fragrance products.

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It was registered in December 2023, before Victoria ­formally opposed it.

But the Norwegian Industrial Property Office ruled against her.

Senior legal adviser Tord Hestenes wrote in the judgment that while Victoria is well known in the industry, it “does not mean that her initials or the combined mark can be considered well-known for this reason alone”.

He said her evidence had limited value because her follower count did not actually show how many were in Norway.

He added that it had not been successfully proved how many Norwegians read the international magazines cited, and the sales figures provided covered the entire Nordic region — not just Norway.

Mr Hestenes ruled there was “no risk of confusion” over the brands.

He added: “Documentation in the case does not provide grounds for assuming that the ­opponent’s mark will be linked to the name ­Victoria Beckham.”

Victoria’s representatives have been approached for comment on the verdict.

A private Scottish estate is looking to hire a couple on a long-term basis who will support the smooth running of the estate, which includes a seven-bed main property

A “special opportunity” for a couple to relocate to a private Scottish estate for work has come up. Included with the positions is a three-bedroom cottage.

An estate in rural Dumfriesshire is currently looking to hire two people on a long-term basis. The successful couple will support the smooth running of the “beautifully restored” estate in the south of Scotland.

The salary for the positions is listed as between £70,000 and £80,000 on the Greycoats Lumleys job listing. As well as the “private” three-bedroom cottage, the accommodation includes council tax and firewood.

One half of the couple will serve as the estate’s housekeeper, overseeing a seven-bed main residence plus several guest properties. The other partner will work as a handyperson, taking charge of the estate’s upkeep and maintenance.

Core duties for the housekeeper include cleaning, laundry, ironing, and wardrobe management, alongside maintaining household inventories and shopping responsibilities. They’ll also handle household supplies and coordinate with estate contractors, whilst caring for antiques, fine furnishings, and delicate finishes.

The housekeeper will also assist with entertaining guests and their arrivals, plus handle light cooking and meal preparation. Overall, they’ll be expected to establish and maintain a serene, well-organised, environmentally conscious, and efficiently managed household.

Meanwhile, the handyperson will handle general upkeep and care for all properties both indoors and outdoors. Duties will encompass pressure washing sandstone terraces and pathways, coordinating tradespeople and overseeing repairs and timetables, plus supporting security and the seamless daily running of the estate.

The handyperson will also need to provide driving and errand assistance, alongside inspecting all estate properties—including one situated a 15-minute drive away. Additionally, they’ll be expected to maintain a swimming pond and building.

Candidates applying for these roles should possess prior experience in comparable positions, plus hold a full UK driving licence and solid references. Further sought-after qualities include “a good understanding of privacy and discretion”, adaptability to work evenings and weekends, and contentment working in a rural countryside environment.

The job advert reads: “Greycoat Lumley’s client are seeking a kind, capable, and discreet Domestic Couple to support the smooth running of a beautifully restored Private Estate in rural Dumfriesshire. The previous housekeeper was in post for seven years prior to the building work.

“There is a seven bed principal property and further ancillary guest properties. Full details are available on application.

“This is a long-term opportunity for a professional Couple who bring warmth, initiative, and pride to their work and who value the rhythm of life in the countryside. You’ll be joining a supportive, established estate team, and caring for a home with beautiful interiors set in a stunning garden.

“Willingness to work flexible hours is essential as this is a second home and there are consequently periods of intense activity balanced by quieter spells.”

The Greycoat Lumleys website adds: “This is a special opportunity to join a thoughtful and well-supported household where your contribution will be genuinely appreciated. The right couple will enjoy the peace and beauty of the locality while helping to maintain a beloved family home.”

According to the job advert, the positions are set to begin in February 2026. For further information about the roles, visit the Greycoat Lumleys website.

A HEART-SHAPED lake in one of the UK’s most loved beauty spots is set to become an underground attraction.

Located in the Lake District, Elterwater Quarry will be getting a new ‘Cavern Explorer’ experience.

As part of the attraction, several steel staircases and platforms will be installed across the quarry’s cavern.

The ziplines will then take visitors from one platform to another.

The experience is said to allow visitors to see parts of the cavern that were previously inaccessible.

Other plans for the attraction include ‘The Quarryman’s Viewpoint’, which will offer visitors a place to look out across the Lake District.

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There will be a natural history trail, venturing through parts of the nearby countryside as well, and a visitor centre with information boards.

Proposals were first submitted two years ago by Burlington Slate, which owns Elterwater slate mine and Zip World.

In the application, the mine said: “The proposed experience at Elterwater will provide a blend of heritage-based adventure through the caverns and offer a unique immersive experience within an underground mine that dates back to the middle of the 19th century.”

However, the first proposals were rejected.

A year later they were resubmitted and approved.

The proposed park isn’t without its controversy though as campaign group Friends of the Lake District has attempted to stop the project.

The group claimed that the planning permission has been wrongly granted and that the new experience would “take us a step closer to a Lake District of noise, chaos and degraded landscapes”.

However, this month, judgement from a judicial review was published and ruled in favour of the Lake District National Authority – meaning that the zipline was still allowed to go ahead.

Michael Hill, CEO of Friends of the Lake District said: “This ruling is a setback for the Cumbrian landscape, but in our 90 years’ history Friends of the Lake District has seen many of those.

“We remain unbowed in our determination to campaign for a Lake District that is tranquil, rich in cultural heritage and environmentally healthy and for protections in law for this and other National Parks to be maintained and strengthened.”

The International Council on Monuments and Sites – which is an advisory board to UNESCO – has also commented that they are opposed to the planned zipline.

The council explained that the zipline “would transform the quarry or part of it into a theme park and would trivialise the experience of an important aspect of the Lake District’s heritage”.

The ultimate worry is that the attraction could lead the Lake District losing its UNESCO World Heritage Site status, which is what happened to the Liverpool Docks in 2021.

The lake itself reveals a heart shape when the water levels drop, also exposing the 500million-year-old rock.

The site of the new attraction is a 40-minute drive from Windermere and an opening date is yet to be revealed.

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I love pretty market towns, historic buildings, boutique shops and cosy pubs — so do lots of other people

I’m a market town girl at heart. I adore cute villages with historic buildings, meandering rivers, boutique shops, and cosy pubs. The Cotswolds are stunning – but almost year-round their honey-coloured villages, including Bourton-on-the-Water, Stow-on-the-Wold, and Lower Slaughter, are packed with coachloads of snap-happy tourists.

According to Gloucestershire Live it’s “free-for-all chaos” complete with noise, litter, and traffic jams. Even TikTokkers can’t resist. A councillor recently lamented that visitors were “exploiting the destination’s heritage for clicks”. Bourton-on-the-Water, aka the Venice of the Cotswolds, has apparently become the ultimate backdrop for selfies and reels.

“This kind of visitor has little interest in heritage, culture, or nature,” councillor Jon Wareing told the BBC. “They’re the ultimate hit-and-run tourist.”

So, while the Cotswolds may be Instagram-famous, I found a quieter, prettier escape. And it didn’t require elbowing my way past twirling huns living their best life in selfies. Instead, I went to The Wye Valley and the Forest of Dean, which offer a tranquil and picturesque alternative to the Cotswolds.

Bordering England and Wales this area of outstanding natural beauty features similar rolling countryside, attractive market towns, and hiking trails but with fewer crowds. It’s especially beautiful in the autumn for ‘leaf-peeping’ when the trees show off a dazzling array of colour.

The market towns and villages of the Wye Valley also offer a less crowded alternative to the busy Cotswolds blending historical buildings, local culture, and proper pubs. From superstar gigs to cosy pubs find out What’s On in Wales by signing up to our newsletter here.

Market towns

One of my favourites is Chepstow. Known as the “gateway to Wales” it gets its name from the Old English ‘chepe stowe’ or ‘market place’. The name still fits. Chepstow keeps its historic feel with cobbled streets and a strong line-up of independent shops, cafés, restaurants, and pubs.

One of the big draws here is the surprising range of walking trails with four long-distance walks converging on Chepstow. The Wye Valley Walk and Offa’s Dyke head north on either side of the River Wye offering hikers a circular loop between Chepstow and Monmouth.

Dreamy views of romantic ruins

Strolls around Tintern offer dreamy views of the romantic ruins of Tintern Abbey, especially from the Devil’s Pulpit viewpoint. Walks along the Angidy Valley reward history lovers with the valley’s industrial heritage.

A gentle riverside path from St Michael’s Church to Tintern Old Station and the old railway line to Brockweir offers an easy, family-friendly amble.

If you fancy a flutter Chepstow’s got you covered. The town’s racecourse is a huge deal in the horseracing world and home to the Coral Welsh Grand National. It’s been hosting race days since the late 1800s and still draws a lively crowd whether you’re a seasoned punter or just there for the buzz and fancy hats.

And if horses aren’t your thing you can swap the saddle for a nine-iron. Just outside town the St Pierre Marriott Hotel and Country Club boasts one of the most scenic golf courses in the country.

Independent shops

Over the border Ross-on-Wye is another charming town. Its 17th-century Market House now houses Made in Ross, an artisan cooperative that showcases local crafts. The town’s streets feature a mix of independent shops, antique stores, cosy coffee houses, and pubs such as The Man of Ross Inn.

At the confluence of the Rivers Wye and Monnow, Monmouth has a rich history with landmarks like the 18th-century Shire Hall, which is now a museum. The town’s vibrant streets are lined with boutiques, cafés, and historic pubs.

Over in England the market towns in the Cotswolds, such as Cirencester, Stow-on-the-Wold, and Chipping Campden, are equally charming but suffer from significant overcrowding during peak tourist seasons.

Cirencester, known as the “Capital of the Cotswolds,” features a lively market, Roman history, and a variety of shops and cafés. Stow-on-the-Wold, with its historic market square and antique shops, often experiences heavy tourist traffic making it less serene.

Chipping Campden, famous for its beautiful High Street lined with historic buildings, also faces similar issues with overcrowding and limited parking.

Historical sites

Symonds Yat can be less crowded and is known for its hand-pulled ferries and impressive views from Symonds Yat Rock. It is perfect for nature lovers and outdoor activities like hiking and canoeing. The Wye Valley is rich in historical sites that rival those in the Cotswolds. Goodrich Castle and Tintern Abbey are standout landmarks.

Exploring on foot can help you discover the industrial and historical heritage in the Wye Valley ranging from the Iron Age construction of hillforts to the Romans who came, saw, and conquered the Wye and the building of Offa’s Dyke – the longest archaeological ‘Keep Out’ sign in Britain.

For history lovers the tiny town of Tintern is also worth a visit. It is home to one of Wales’ greatest monastic ruins, Tintern Abbey, which is found on the banks of the River Wye and was only the second Cistercian foundation to be built in Britain.

It was founded in 1131 by Cistercian monks and has had a long history including the dissolution of the monasteries, which led to the abbey slowly turning into a majestic ruin. Today you can visit this important heritage site in Wales and marvel at the scale of the roofless abbey and the British Gothic architecture. Tickets can be bought on arrival at the visitor centre and there is also a selection of guidebooks that can help you learn more about this beautiful abbey.

Chepstow Castle is another must-visit. It is Wales’ oldest surviving post-Roman castle dating back to 1067. This beautifully-preserved Welsh castle proudly stands atop a limestone cliff above the River Wye. For more than six centuries Chepstow was home to some of the wealthiest and most powerful men of the medieval and Tudor ages.

Earl William Fitz Osbern, a close friend of William the Conqueror, started the building in 1067, making it one of the first Norman strongholds in Wales. In turn William Marshal (Earl of Pembroke), Roger Bigod (Earl of Norfolk), and Charles Somerset (Earl of Worcester) all made their mark before the castle declined after the Civil War.

The oldest building is the Norman great tower but construction continued well into the 17th century as stronger, musket-friendly parapets replaced medieval battlements.

Today visitors can learn more about this historic site that Cadw now manages by visiting this impressive castle on a day trip or booking one of their special events. The site has a range of facilities including a gift shop, bike access, and parking.

Meandering river

Along with pretty towns and history one of the area’s biggest draws is the flowing River Wye. This meandering river begins in Plynlimon in mid-Wales and flows south, becoming part of Wales and England’s border and eventually meeting the Severn.

The River Wye is a long and very accessible river with plenty of paddle spots and waterside pubs. Canoeing through the Wye Valley offers a unique way to explore its scenic villages and countryside – an experience you can’t replicate in the Cotswolds.

Several outdoor companies in the area offer guided canoe and paddleboard trips down the River Wye. Many trips include camping or visiting riverside villages.

You can also hire a canoe and captain your own vessel on a river pub crawl or camping expedition. Waterside pubs along the River Wye are welcome rest spots if you’re paddling up the river on an epic canoe or kayak trip. The Boat Inn and the Anchor Inn offer local ales and river views.

Eating, drinking and sleeping

One of the best spots for a pint by the water is the Saracens Head Inn. This historic riverside inn has stood for centuries in its spectacular position on the east bank of the River Wye where the river flows into a steep wooded gorge.

Here you’ll find rooms as well as award-winning food and local ales. Their flagstone-floored bar and rustic pine tables provide a traditional pub feel as you sip on a pint of local real ale.

If you prefer dry land there are many ambitious hiking routes for a scenic stomp and shorter walking trails can help you discover the beauty of the Wye Valley on foot.

If you want a longer walk in this area opt for the Wye Valley Walk – a long-distance national trail that follows the course of the River Wye.

You can choose various sections of the trail for day hikes and weekend hikes or opt for a full walking holiday and do the lot. One of the best day hikes on the Wye Valley Walk is the Chepstow to Tintern Abbey section.

It’s a scenic five-mile walk that takes you up ancient stone steps and through ethereal forest paths. There are plenty of photo and picnic spots along the way and you’ll also find some viewing points where you can gaze at the winding River Wye.

Autumn is the best time to attempt this trail: when the leaves change their colours it becomes one of the prettiest hiking trails in the UK. Pack a picnic to round out the countryside experience.

Food-wise you’ll be spoiled for choice in the Wye Valley with plenty of cafés and restaurants to rival the swanky Cotswolds. The area is a surprising gastro hotspot and there is a thriving dining and foodie scene to be discovered.

You can criss-cross seamlessly from Wales into England and easily explore the well-heeled area and its many restaurants, cafés, and producers.

Take a gastro journey through the valley and you’ll find locally-raised lamb, smoked eel, craft ales, and honey-infused mead. Local breweries include the small microbrewery Lydbrook Valley Brewing Company, which produces a 4.2% IPA, and the Wye Valley Brewery, which makes a decent range of craft ales.

The Wye Valley even has its own vineyard, White Castle, where visitors can buy high-quality Welsh wines and take a tour.

Over in Chepstow the Beaufort Hotel’s award-winning restaurant offers guests a fabulous à la carte menu featuring traditional British and international dishes using Wye Valley and Welsh produce where possible.

Tell me Wine is a wine merchant and French bistro lounge that offers delicious French dishes, wine tastings, and live music events. Family-owned Stone Rock Lodge serves Wales’ best pizza and you can get a banging Sunday lunch at St Pierre.

With one Michelin green star and four AA rosettes dining at the Whitebrook is a must for serious foodies. Fresh local ingredients and foraged findings from the valley are at the heart of the food at this highly-acclaimed restaurant with rooms.

Set in five acres of landscaped surroundings chef Chris Harrod draws culinary inspiration from his bountiful surroundings.

You can expect hand-foraged garlic, bittercress, wild onion, and hogweed from the valley, which connect diners to the immediate locale and enrich the carefully crafted menu.

Harrod has a knack for turning locally-foraged ingredients into extraordinary creations. His dedication to using the best of the region’s offerings earned The Whitebrook a Michelin star, a Michelin green star, and four AA Rosettes. It’s regularly included in the Top 50 list of restaurants in the UK and deservedly so.

The seasonal tasting menu is a culinary journey showcasing the best of the season with expertly chosen wine pairings of local Welsh and English wines including several from Monmouthshire-based White Castle Vineyard. Each small but perfectly-executed course explores the region’s rich flavours presented with precision and artistry.

Typical plates include Orkney scallops, Huntsham Farm Ryeland hogget with young leek, turnip, and ramsons, and day boat hake with hen of the wood, parsley root, pickled pine, mushrooms, sauce, and wild chervil.

If you’re looking to stay longer in the area the Wye Valley has an impressive range of swish properties, guest houses, and hotels to suit your travel style and budget.

Airbnb and Booking.com offer unique stays in the Wye Valley with everything from bougie guest houses and cosy holiday cabins to luxury glamping and yurts.

One of my favourite places to stay is the charming Tudor Farmhouse. This boutique hotel is a former working farm that has been stylishly converted into a country getaway with rooms, cottages, and suites. Prices depend on the type of room booked.

I’d come for the sunrise but I quickly discovered three things that can ruin even the most beautiful moment

It was just gone 5am when I arrived very tired and ready to tackle a scenic sunrise hike at one of the UK’s most popular peaks. But looking around, it appeared I wasn’t the only one who had this marvellous idea — despite the time, the car park was starting to fill up.

I could make out the faint glow of iPhones as early risers emerged from cars, clutching coffee and camera tripods, shivering in the dark. From here, the route to the summit of Pen y Fan, the highest peak in south Wales, is one of the most straightforward ways to the summit and is often described by locals as a “motorway”, so it shouldn’t have been a huge surprise to find myself surrounded by other keen walkers.

Pen y Fan rises 886 metres (2,907 ft) above a landscape of rolling high hills. It’s one of several flat-topped summits in the area, and the dramatic peak was once a mountain for the committed: avid hikers, the British Army on training exercises and reluctant school kids dragged up for the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award. These days, it attracts anyone with a phone and a sunrise, with viral social media clips turning the picturesque summit into a must-visit backdrop for selfies.

Interest in the UK’s beauty spots has surged since Covid-19 restrictions began in 2020, when an hour’s exercise was a brief escape from lockdown life. In recent years, reports of national parks, beaches, and hiking trails being overrun with crowds, litter, and queues have become almost routine as more people head for the hills, clutching their smartphones.

We set off from the car park in the dark, joining the steady stream of hikers snaking up the trail. The ‘motorway’ path was well-trodden and wide enough in parts to accommodate the crowd without too much jostling. My companions, seasoned hikers with well-worn gear, moved with practised efficiency, while I kept pace, observing the scene unfolding around us.

The trail was a mix of gravel and uneven stone, occasionally slick with dew, and the dawn light had not yet hit the high, rolling green hills, verdant valleys, and grassy mountain plateaus.

Headlamps and iPhone lights dotted the landscape like fireflies, and it was hard not to slow down and take in the absurdity of what felt like hundreds of us all crawling up the same path, multiple dogs running loose, phones flickering, and me, trying not to become part of someone’s Instagram Live.

As we crested the final rise, the line of hikers slowed to a crawl, everyone funnelling toward the summit marker. The Pen y Fan cairn, a large pile of stones that has stood since the Bronze Age, marked with a National Trust plaque and topped by a trig point, was already commanding attention. People had formed an orderly queue, patiently waiting for their turn to stand beside it for a photo.

Even in the soft pre-dawn light, it looked like a scene from a theme park: polite shuffling, polite muttering, everyone clutching phones and cameras, some even doing little TikTok dances.

Watching the strange scene, it was hard not to think about the meteoric rise of ‘TikTok travel’, the phenomenon of visiting somewhere not to discover it, but to make the place a backdrop for your own carefully choreographed content.

Don’t get me wrong: I love a good selfie. But queuing for a picture, or orchestrating an hour-long photoshoot solely for social media, is not something I have patience for.

And yet, despite the absurdity of it all, the sunrise we had come to see was spectacular. The first golden rays of light struck the ridges, catching the Llyn Cwm Llwch lake in a soft, golden glow and providing expansive 360-degree views of the surrounding countryside, including the Black Mountains, Carmarthenshire Fans, and the Cambrian Mountains to the north and west.

A thin mist lingered in the valleys below, and a “dragon’s breath” cloud inversion spread across the landscape, curling around the peaks like smoke and catching the sun’s pink-and-gold light. Even the most devoted TikTokkers paused for a moment just long enough to gape at the extraordinary panorama.

The way the glacier-carved peaks glowed, the soft light spilling over the valleys, and the atmospheric ‘Dragon’s breath’ are why Pen y Fan draws so many, why we brave the crowds, and why, inevitably, you find yourself taking a quick selfie, trying to preserve the moment without letting it slip away.

I’d come for the sunrise, but I quickly discovered three things that can ruin even the most epic mountain moment: crowds, dogs running wild off lead, and litter. None of them is enough to spoil Pen y Fan entirely, but together, they’re a reminder that our growing love for the outdoors can have unintended consequences.

I’m also self-aware enough to know I’m part of the problem. I came for the same thing as everyone else, a photogenic sunrise shared with my hiking pals.

I could have chosen one of the many quieter peaks or valleys scattered across Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) — there’s no shortage of them. But here I am, trudging up the most popular route with everyone else. The lure of dawn light is hard to resist, even when you know exactly how crowded it’s going to be.

As I sipped my coffee and surveyed the summit, it was impossible to ignore the consequences of Pen y Fan’s popularity. The cairn, once a quiet marker of the highest point in south Wales, had become a pivot point for human activity.

Every so often, discarded rubbish or a stray dog poo bag would catch your eye, small but persistent reminders of the mountain’s rising footfall.

Even the Central Beacons Mountain Rescue Team has had to intervene, “downing tools” during training sessions in the National Park to clear up litter, including disposable barbecues, something they described on social media as increasingly common and, heartbreakingly, unnecessary.

Another complication was dogs off-lead. Bounding freely, they sometimes disappeared from view entirely, prompting panicked calls from their owners and, presumably, even more posts in local hiking Facebook groups about missing pets.

On a slope like Pen y Fan, it’s a worry: not just for the dogs (which I love to be clear) but also for wildlife and the growing problem of erosion and mess along the most popular paths.

For all the talk of crowds and chaos and poor pet management, though, I know most people who come here care deeply about the mountains.

I’m a member of enough hiking groups to see how much affection there is for these astonishing landscapes. Most walkers are respectful; they don’t drop litter, keep dogs close, and tread carefully. A small minority spoil it with blaring music, buzzing drones, or abandoned dog poo bags. Perhaps that’s why this behaviour feels so jarring; it isn’t the norm.

What’s needed isn’t less enthusiasm, but more awareness. Simple, consistent reminders of how to “leave no trace,” and a bit of encouragement to explore beyond the same three or four photogenic peaks, might go further than any warning sign ever could.

Of course, awareness is easier to preach than practise when the sunrise forecast looks promising, and so, here I am. It turns out that it’s easy to grumble about the crowds until you realise that you’re one of them. And maybe that’s the paradox of places like Pen y Fan, they’re loved to the point of being over-loved.

SUPERMODEL Kendall Jenner gives a brand a leg up in an ad campaign — for a beauty mask.

She posed with her limb in the air for Therabody’s LED TheraFace Mask Glo, which is said to reduce the signs of ageing.

Kendall said: “I’ve been using Therabody products for years, and I love anything that can help me feel and look my best. I started with the Theragun Mini and have used a number of their products.

“I was excited when the brand asked me to try the new LED mask. I’m always open to trying new products and treatments that are recommended to me by professionals.

“I absolutely love learning, especially about any superficial or natural anti-aging tricks. I’m a lot more focused on consistency and being gentle with my skin.”

Earlier in the year, the telly favourite wore a zip-up top and cycling shorts as she modelled for activewear brand Adanola.

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Kendall and Kylie Jenner put on a stunning display at Paris Fashion Week

Kendall also has deals with fashion house FWRD, where one of her dresses, costs £2,618.

The fashion icon is one of the most in-demand models in the world, and she recently insisted she’s got no plans to stop anytime soon.

But, speaking to French Vogue, Kendall confessed she was thinking about starting a family one day.

“I dream, above all, of longevity. Even when I’m older, I hope people will still think of me,” she said.

“I’d like to stay in the limelight as the years go by… I would love to have a family, become a mother and have children.”

THIS Christmas snag £365 of beauty must-haves for just £79 – including the fan-favourite ‘glass skin in a bottle’ and the show-stopping ‘Wonder’ serum.

The set brings together 32 carefully curated mix of skincare and beauty essentials, designed to keep your complexion glowing all winter long.

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From hydrating serums to luxurious creams, each product promises a little bit of pampering magic, making it a perfectly indulgent gift for yourself or someone special.

Shoppers are already calling it a bargain not to be missed, with the full retail value adding up to over £365, yet the Christmas set is available for just £79 – a fraction of the price.

What’s included?

For haircare, there is a Hair Syrup Rapunzel Pre-Wash Oil Treatment (50ml, deluxe size), Alfaparf Milano Semi Di Lino Diamond Illuminating Shampoo (75ml, deluxe size), and Alfaparf Milano Semi Di Lino Diamond Illuminating Conditioner (50ml, deluxe size).

You also get an Intense Moisture Hair Mask (300ml, full size), Bondi Boost Heat Protectant Spray (50ml, deluxe size), Incredilox Nourishing Argan Treatment Oil (100ml, full size) and a Brushworks Dry Shampoo (50ml, deluxe size).

Your skin will be pampered with a Madagascar Centella Ampoule (30ml, full size), a Biodance Bio-Collagen Real Deep Mask (34g, full size), a TIRTIR Milk Skin Toner (50ml, full size), and a Purito Mighty Bamboo Panthenol Cream (100ml, full size).

You can also enjoy a Dr.PawPaw Overnight Lip Mask (10ml, full size), a Geek & Gorgeous Jelly Joker Cleanser (50ml, deluxe size), Grace & Stella Under Eye Mask Set (full size), a Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Fluid SPF50 (15ml, deluxe size), a Clean Skin Club Clean Towels XL Travel Pack (x10, full size) and a Kanzen Anti-Bacterial Cleansing Water (125ml, full size).

The beauty set offers cosmetics such as the Clomana Marshmallow Sponge, a Spectrum Collections Everyday 4 Piece Makeup Brush Set, a Plump It! Volumising Lip Oil (3ml), and a Jecca Blac Glow Drops Highlighting Primer in Rose Pearl (20ml).

Treat yourself to a fresh manicure with the Nails Inc. It’s Topless 1-Step Gel Nail Polish (10ml) and Nails Inc. It’s Topless 1-Step Gel Nail Polish (10ml).

Relax with the bath and body samples, which include the ESPA Bergamot & Jasmine Body Wash (40ml), the ESPA Bergamot & Jasmine Body Lotion (40ml), a Fussy Natural Deodorant Stick and two Truly Beauty Unicorn Fruit & Coco Cloud Gift sets (60ml).

Other goodies include a Shay & Blue Parfum Nashwa Eau De Parfum (10ml), a White Silver Cloud Fluffy Sleep Mask, a Justmylook Spa Headband and three Justmylook Satin Hair Scrunchies.

Customer reviews

Customers loved the set last year, leaving rave reviews and calling it a “blow-away” buy for both the quality and quantity of products included.

Many praise how the items feel luxurious, perform well, and offer a real sense of value, making it one of the most talked-about beauty bargains this festive season.

One customer wrote: “Bought this last year for my daughter and she absolutely loved it!

“The variety and quality of products behind each door was exceptional, in fact she has since purchased some of the items to use throughout the year.

“Great calendar for trying some new products.”

Another added: “I truly enjoyed opening this one. A few different products in it unlike some advents who seems to copy each other. Very happy and especially the price point.”

A third penned: “I have just received my box as a birthday present. Love. Love. Love. What is there not to love?

“The box itself is just gorgeous … the contents are just amazing. It’s going to take some time to go through all the boxes .. can I wait until December …. nnahhhhh Let’s start now. Thank you.”

A fourth said: “WOW in a word! I’ve just received my JML Advent today and it’s absolutely beautiful.

“The box is gorgeous and so well made, each drawer holding the full 25 (not 24 like a classic advent) individual boxes (though I note there are several boxes with multiple items).

“It’s truly a lovely gift for yourself or a loved one (I ordered one for myself and another for my mum). I can’t recommend it enough, honestly.

“The team at JML have clearly put a lot of thought in to both the design of the box and the goodies inside it, not to mention the incredible value for money.

“I’m blown away, truly. Thanks Team JML – this advent is fabulous!!”

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Summer has ended, and the sweater weather is taking over – in search of finding the best autumn walk in the UK, The Flash and Three Shires in the Peak District ranked third in the list.

There’s nothing quite like a crisp autumn stroll, with the vibrant hues of the trees and the crunch of leaves underfoot.

We’re spoilt for choice in the UK with an array of stunning autumn walks right across the country. However, new research suggests that the Peak District might just be the ultimate destination for leaf-peeping this season.

Parkdean Resorts conducted a study to identify the UK’s best autumn walks, using data from TikTok, and three of the top ten spots were located in the Peak District. The trend for #Autumnwalks is currently sweeping TikTok, with over 10,600 videos showcasing various picturesque locations shared on the platform.

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The Flash and Three Shires in the Peak District clinched the third spot on the list, racking up 340,100 views. This 6km walk, named after the meeting point of Derbyshire, Cheshire and Staffordshire counties, offers breathtaking views of autumn foliage.

Coming in fourth place is the Butterley Reservoir, tucked away in the Wessenden Valley in West Yorkshire. Situated at the northern edge of the national park, this scenic walk has amassed over 236,000 views on TikTok. Rounding out the top ten is Bottoms reservoir, located just outside of Hadfield, which has garnered 82,500 TikTok views.

Wales claimed the top two spots for autumn walks: Hafren Forest in Powys and Aberglaslyn Pass in Snowdonia, reports the Manchester Evening News. The former boasts a variety of routes featuring waterfalls and riverside views, including an accessible boardwalk route.

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Aberglaslyn Pass, on the other hand, guides you through a stunning gorge, alongside the tranquil Glaslyn river and through the picturesque village of Beddgelert.

The route also takes in the serene waters of Llyn Dinas and the historic copper mine workings of Sygun and Cwm Bychan.

The UK’s top 10 autumn strolls

• Hafren Forest, Powys, Mid Wales
• Aberglaslyn Pass, Snowdonia, North Wales
• Flash and Three Shires Head, Peak District, Staffordshire
• Butterley Reservoir, Peak District, West Yorkshire
• Hermitage Bridge, Perthshire, Scotland
• Conic Hill, Stirling, Scotland
• Blea Tarn, Lake District, Cumbria
• Lochgoilhead, Argyll and Bute, West Scotland
• Glencoe Lochan, Glencoe, Scottish Highlands
• Bottoms Reservoir, Peak District, Derbyshire

A woman has shared a ‘hidden gem’ in the Lake District, as she takes her viewers on a tour of the picturesque and stunning trail she found while visiting the area

There are so many hidden gems in the UK, and with the rise of staycations, people are sharing their travels across the country.

Now one woman has taken to TikTok to walk through a ‘heavenly’ cave in the Lake District. Posting under the username @ adventureamore1 the TikToker shared her trip, as she took viewers along the scenic route to the cave nestled in Little Langdale in the Lake District.

The cave consists of a network of abandoned tunnels and chambers which all find themselves tucked away amongst the rural beauty of the Little Langdale, which offers a tranquil setting to observe the history and geology.

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In the video caption, the TikToker said: “This trail takes you on an epic adventure into one of the lake districts most beautiful spots .. cathedral cave. This otherworldly cave is famous for it’s heavenly light that spills down into the cave from a huge opening above.

“This spot can be viewed from from the opening or from the bottom. I recommend seeing it from the bottom first to get the real sense of wonder. Suitable for dogs and kids, this amazing spot is definitely one to add to your list.”

However she noted that for those wanting to visit, “Parking isn’t the easiest and we ended up having to Google a small car park around a 20 mins walk from this entrance but it was worth it.” She noted how the trail “takes you to somewhere you won’t forget” and called the middle of the cave a true “hidden gem”.

People were loving the video, and one person who had also visited commented: “been there, amazing place … peaceful beautiful,” while a second chimed: “This was on my list when I visited last year but didn’t have time for it. More reason to return to the Lakes!” A thid said: “That’s a nice hidden gem indeed.”

Also known as Cathedral Quarry, the site was once used to extract green slate. This slate is still used today to build walls and roofs throughout the local area. According to LakeLovers, throughout the nineteenth century, the site provided slate to aid in the boom in house building, drilling the rock and using explosives to source the material.

“In 1929, the quarry was purchased by world-renowned author Beatrix Potter. Beatrix gifted the site to the National Trust, who ensured quarrying continued until the 1950s.

“Nowadays, the site is preserved and maintained by the National Trust as an important place of geological interest and history in the Lake District,” the site added.

Padley Gorge in the Peak District has been named one of the best autumnal walks in the UK, according to new research – and it is easy to see why it’s so popular

There’s a certain enchantment that comes with an autumnal stroll through the woods. As the leaves shift from vibrant green to warm hues of amber, the woodland takes on a storybook charm, particularly when accompanied by a low mist and a crisp chill in the air.

Need a moment to reconnect with nature? If this sounds like your ideal way to spend the upcoming weeks, then you might want to consider a visit to Padley Gorge in the Peak District. This picturesque spot has been named one of the top autumn walks in the UK, according to recent research.

Go Outdoors used TripAdvisor reviews and average rainfall data to determine the best spots for an autumn walk across the country. Each location was given a score out of 10. Padley Gorge, situated on the eastern side of the national park, secured third place with a commendable score of 8.35.

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Claiming the top spot was the Forest of Dean in Gloucestershire, boasting a high score of 9.3. Winkworth Arboretum in Surrey wasn’t far behind, taking second place with a score of 8.51. Completing the top five were Cragside in Northumberland and Richmond Park in London.

Interestingly, not all the top ten walks are through woodlands; Fountains Abbey in North Yorkshire tied for 8th place, while Regent’s Park in London rounded off the list.

But if it’s an atmospheric woodland walk you’re after this autumn, Padley Gorge certainly delivers. The route guides you through a stretch of ancient oaks and birch woodland nestled in a deep valley, reports the Manchester Evening News.

Burbage Brook meanders through the landscape, crossed by charming wooden bridges and stepping stones, creating enchanting scenes reminiscent of a fairytale. The walk is not overly strenuous, making it suitable for the whole family.

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Go Outdoors ranks this among the top 10 autumnal walks in the UK

• Forest of Dean
• Winkworth Arboretum
• Padley Gorge
• Cragside
• Richmond Park
• Sheffield Park & Garden
• Westonbirt, The National Arboretum
• Stourhead
• Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal Water Gardens
• New Forest
• Regent’s Park

The walk is just as magical as the sunflower farm offering sweeping views over the rolling Chiltern Hills, woodlands, a deer park and a National Trust House once linked to a king

Tucked away in the heart of the Chiltern Hills, a bustling sunflower farm awaits discovery. Not only do they produce sparkling wine from the chalk-rich soils just north-west of London, but they also harvest their own honey and offer you the chance to pick your own sunflowers.

The journey to the farm is as scenic as the fields themselves, offering sweeping views over the rolling Chiltern Hills, woodlands, a deer park and the National Trust House that was once the residence of Catherine Carey, one of Henry III’s alleged offspring.

A train ride from Paddington Station, with a change at Twyford, will get you to the riverside town of Henley-on-Thames in just under an hour. Once there, face the church tower and choose either a left or right turn.

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After navigating some sizeable hills (a less strenuous option is to walk from Marlow), you’ll find yourself at the imposing 14th-century house, steeped in medieval origins and Tudor history. The gardens at Greys Court are encircled by ancient ruins and offer panoramic views of the Chiltern Hills.

First mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086, this was once the dwelling of the powerful de Grey family. Among its notable residents was Catherine Carey, who married Sir Francis Knollys, a descendant of the de Greys, reports MyLondon.

She was the daughter of Mary Boleyn, and is widely believed to be the illegitimate child of Henry VIII. Centuries later, British politician Sir Felix Brunner resided in the house with his wife before donating it to the National Trust.

After immersing yourself in the rich history of Greys Court, it’s a brisk 90-minute journey to the sunflower farm. You’ll find a few pubs along the way, and the sunflower farm welcomes visitors from sunrise to sunset.

Upon reaching Stonor Farm, you’re greeted with two hectares of vibrant sunflowers – that’s larger than two football pitches. The farm has thoughtfully cut footpaths through the flowers for easy exploration.

Purchasing the sunflowers is a bargain at £2 per stem or £5 for three stems, with all proceeds going to charity. For a few extra quid, you can wander through a second field filled with even taller sunflowers. The farm also hosts themed events throughout August, including sunflower yoga and sunflower sound baths.

As for walking routes, there’s no shortage of options. If you fancy a stroll around Greys Court itself, there’s a circular walk through classic Chilterns scenery of beech woodlands and open countryside.

For a longer trek, you can walk from Henley-on-Thames to Greys Court. If you prefer driving to the sunflower farm, ample parking is available at the entrance to The Wine Farm on Stonor Road. Additional car parks are located in Henley and at Greys Court.

From London Paddington to Henley-on-Thames, the journey takes approximately an hour. Walking from Henley to Greys Court will take just over an hour and a half, and from there to Stonor Farm, it should take around one hour and forty minutes.

ADVENT calendar season is approaching faster than you think.

The best options sell out at lightning speed every year, and Fortnum & Mason has released its luxurious Advent calendar worth a staggering £1,149.

Fortnum’s Beauty Advent Calendar, £265 (worth £1,149)

The beauty Advent calendar costs £265, and is filled with premium brands including Jo Malone, Clive Christian and Sol de Janeiro.

No one does luxury quite like Fortnum & Mason, and the iconic Advent calendar comes with 26 beauty treats – 23 of which are full-size.

Shoppers will find a variety of high-end products behind the doors, including fragrances, candles and make-up.

There’s plenty inside for skincare fans too, like the Wildsmith Active Super Eye Serum that’s worth £100 alone.

Beauty fans will also be treated to four fragrances, including a 30ml Gallivant London perfume worth £70.

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Three 10ml perfumes are inside, Fortnum’s 1707 Lilas Eau de Parfum, which costs £235 for a 50ml, a Topaze Eau de Parfum with a Gold Atomiser, and a Clive Christian Town & Country Perfume that would be £400 for a 50ml bottle.

Sol de Janeiro’s viral Bum Bum Body Cream is included for those looking to add a touch of luxury to their body care routine, along with a 100ml version of Aromatherapy Associates’ Revive Body Oil (worth £60).

There’s also a selection of stunning keepsakes including two Ortigia soaps in tins – which could even be passed on as Christmas gifts.

The 26 products are all stored inside the luxe-looking packaging, which opens up to reveal the pull-out draws with gold numbers.

Fortnum & Mason’s Advent calendar is one of the more expensive on the market, but its sky-high value of £1,149 means shoppers are saving £849 compared to purchasing the items individually.

Beauty Advent calendars have started to launch in recent weeks, and we’re expecting plenty more drops within the next month.

Shoppers have already been taking to TikTok to give a first-look at the 2025 Advents.

The Sun Shopping team will also be putting some of the bestsellers to the test, and you can read our thoughts on last year’s versions, including our Charlotte Tilbury Advent calendar review.

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Fortnum’s Beauty Advent Calendar, £265 (worth £1,149)

Beauty Advent calendars fly off the virtual shelves every year, so if you have your eye on one, it’s worth snapping it up as soon as possible before it sells out.

Fortnum & Mason’s 2025 Beauty Advent Calendar has sold out in previous years.

While it’s available to shop now, the website states that deliveries won’t be made until after 22 September.

The collection of premium products will make the ultimate gift for any beauty fan, or as a treat for yourself.

CHRISTMAS might still feel months away, but in the world of beauty lovers, the countdown starts now.

The first wave of 2025’s beauty advent calendars has landed, and they’re stuffed with luxe treats, jaw-dropping savings and golden ticket surprise savings.

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TikTok beauty lover Alex, @hiyaimalex, has given fans a first peek at some of the biggest launches for 2025, and we’ve broken down the highlights so you can decide which one to stick on your wish list.

Selfridges

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Whether you like it or not, Selfridges has officially kicked off Christmas in August.

The department store has revealed 23 of the 37 products inside its 2025 beauty advent calendar, with a huge 24 of them full-sized.

Priced at £250 but worth £1,136, it’s packed with high-end favourites.

The following have been confirmed so far.

• Charlotte Tilbury’s setting spray (30ml)
• Laneige’s full-sized berry lip mask
• Lisa Eldridge lip liner
• Augustinus Bader eye cream
• Jo Malone’s English Pear & Freesia scent (30ml)
• A Refy bronze brush
• Moon Glaze Stick
• UK Lash Serum
• Mini Tatcha Silk Cream
• The Ordinary’s niacinamide serum
• Rodial’s Vitamin C tonic
• Elemis resurfacing pads
• Gisou hair oil (20ml)
• Full-sized Color Wow Dream Coat
• Lashify lash set
• Charlotte Mensah salt scrub
• Scalp brush
• Murad hydration mask
• Maria Nila soothing serum
• Mini Ormonde Jayne and Fleur de Teck fragrances

Plus a Selfridges Beauty Concierge card has been added for an as-yet-unknown treat.

The mix of full sizes and fragrance has already got beauty fans buzzing.

You can join the waitlist here.

SPACE NK

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Always one of the most lusted-after calendars, Space NK is back with a sleek new look for 2025.

At £260, it’s a serious investment but with a value of £1,150 and 25 products (many full-sized), it’s one of the most generous on the market.

The waitlist’s already open, so if you want in, you’ll need to move fast.

CULT BEAUTY

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This year Cult Beauty is spoiling shoppers with not one but two advent calendars.

The classic curation has 35 items, while the limited edition has 40, with the latter sneaking in a few fragrance treats.

Priced at £240 with a value of around £1,100, they’re also hiding golden tickets worth £1,000 inside some lucky boxes.

Revealed so far is the Hourglass mascara, Gucci lip oil, Patrick Ta blush duo and Huda Beauty lip gloss.

The waitlist is now open.

SEPHORA

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It seems Sephora is playing hard to get with their 2025 calendar, having not shared a price yet, but we do know it holds 41 products.

Alex reckons she’s spotted the Gisou lip oil, Laneige cream, Merit blush balm, Kayali fragrance, Rare Beauty, Glow Recipe skincare and an Amika dry shampoo.

Fans can expect more reveals soon, but even these early guesses are enough to get beauty fans buzzing.

The waitlist is now open.

ELLE BEAUTY

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Affordable but still packed with high-end names, Elle Beauty’s calendar is going for £130 but worth around £700.

It’s got a jaw-dropping 10 full-sized products.

The full list of products included are as follows.

• Zelens Power B
• Murad Cellular Hydration Barrier Repair Cream
• Medik8 Advanced Day Total Protect SPF30
• Wild Nutrition Food Grown Complete Beauty Support
• Champo Pitta Brow Serum.
• AKT Body Conditioning Balm
• Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Liquid Blush in Happy
• Sync Beauty Lip Oil
• Goldwell Rich Repair Mask
• OPI Infinite Shine
• PERS Vitamin C Serum
• Votary Blemish Rescue Oil
• By Terry Brightening CC Serum
• Narciso Rodriguez All Of Me eau de parfum
• Rodial Snake Serum
• Aveda Botanical Repair Strengthening Leave-In Treatment
• Neal’s Yard Remedies Vegan Wild Rose Beauty Balm
• Aromatherapy Associates Deep Relax Bath and Shower Oil
• Tweezerman Micro Mini Tweezer
• Drunk Elephant A-Passioni Retinol Cream
• L’Occitane Almond Shower Oil
• Gallinee Youthful Serum
• Rituals Ayurveda Shower Foam
• Espa Bergamot Body Lotion
• Fenty Cherry Dub BHA Toner
• Nuxe Hair Prodigieux High Shine Shampoo
• Nuxe Hair Prodigieux High Shine Conditioner

With the waitlist now open.

HARRODS

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The Harrods Beauty Advent Calendar is pure Christmas luxury, costing a hefty £250 for 32 products, 14 of them full-sized.

Fans can expect the crème de la crème of beauty brands, from La Mer and Tatcha to Sisley and Medik8.

The full list of products is below.

• Laura Mercier Black Caviar Extravagant Mascara 8.5g (Full Size)
• La Prairie Foam Cleanser 50ml (Travel Size)
• Medik8 Crystal Retinal 6 30ml (Full Size)
• Rodial Frosted Pink Blush Drops & Bronze Glowlighter 15ml (Full Size) and 2g (Deluxe Mini)
• Evidens De Beaute The Special Mask 30ml (Travel Size)
• Davines OI All In One Milk 50ml (Travel Size)
• Shiseido FSLX Total Regenerating Cream 15ml (Travel Size)
• Sisley Floral Toning Lotion 100ml (Travel Size)
• Beautifect Beauty Blender 1pc (Full Size)
• Hourglass Veil Translucent Setting Powder 2g (Travel Size)
• U beauty Resurfacing Compound 15ml (Travel Size)
• La Mer Crème de la Mer 15ml (Full Size)
• Bobbi Brown Taupe Long Wear Cream Eye Shadow Stick 1.6g (Full Size)
• 111SKIN Cyro Sheet Mask 1pc (Full Size)
• Christophe Robin Cleansing Purifying Scrub & Regenerating Mask 40ml & 75ml (Travel Size)
• Cle De Peau UV Protective Cream 8ml (Travel Size)
• Etat Libre D’Orange Uruk 10ml (Travel Size)
• Skin Cycles Lip Balm 0.5ml (Full Size)
• Lancaster Ligne Princière Cream & Ligne Princière Serum 15ml & 7.5ml (Travel Size & Deluxe Mini)
• Valmont Votre Visage L’Elixir Face Cream 15ml (Travel Size)
• Augustinus Bader The Face Oil 10ml (Travel Size)
• Moncho Moreno Bond J’ aime Bond 100ml (Travel Size)
• MZ SKIN Hydra-Bright Gold Eye Mask 1pc (Full Size)
• MZ SKIN Vitamin Infused Meso Eye Mask 1pc (Full Size)
• MZ SKIN Soothe & Smooth Hyaluronic Brightening Eye Complex 14ml (Full Size)
• Champo Pitta Lash Serum 4ml & Pitta Brow Serum 4ml (Full Size x 2)
• Tatcha Indigo Overnight Repair 15ml (Travel Size)
• Mac Ruby Woo Macximal Sleek Satin Lipstick 3.8g (Full Size)

Pre-order is open but customers are limited to buying a maximum of five boxes.

HARVEY NICHOLS

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Another £250 option, Harvey Nichols’ calendar is worth over £1,000 and already available to rewards members.

Big names include NARS, La Mer, Charlotte Tilbury and Color Wow — and as a festive bonus, one in every 50 calendars contains a £50 Harvey Nicks gift voucher.

You can now join the waitlist.

LIBERTY

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One of the priciest and poshest on the list, Liberty’s advent calendar costs £270 but packs in over £1,200 worth of beauty.

Inside are 30 products, 20 of them full-sized, from brands like Augustinus Bader, Sisley and Lisa Eldridge.

Plus, 15 golden tickets worth £1,000 are hidden among the calendars. The waitlist’s open now, and these will go fast.

ANTHROPOLOGIE

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At £98, this is one of the most affordable luxury beauty calendars of the year, but it’s still worth £365 and includes 11 full-sized items.

With a golden ticket promotion offering extra prizes, it’s a fun, budget-friendly option for beauty lovers who don’t want to miss out on the seasonal sparkle.

Best value for money

If you’re chasing the biggest bang for your buck, Space NK comes out on top for sheer savings at £260 for a £1,150 haul is hard to beat.

Liberty offers the highest overall value at £1,200+, but it’s also the most expensive.

For budget-conscious shoppers, ELF’s £150 calendar crams in £1,100 worth of products, making it the best mid-price steal.

And if you’re after something affordable but still luxe, Anthropologie’s £98 calendar gives you over three times your money in products.

These aren’t the only calendars to hit the market this year so if you’re still after a more affordable option don’t worry.

Boots and a few other high street favourites are still keeping their Christmas cards close to their chest, but if last year’s sell-out calendars are anything to go by, their launches will cause a frenzy.

For now, though, the early releases are already making December mornings look a whole lot more glamorous.

Money-Saving Tips from Gemma Bird: Save £2k Before Christmas

IF youre’ looking to save cash, you’ve come to the right place, as here, Gemma Bird has shared her top tips that’ll save you £2k before Christmas.

• Set a budget: Track your spending and create a realistic budget.
• Cut unnecessary costs: Cancel unused subscriptions and avoid impulse buys.
• Meal planning: Plan meals to reduce grocery bills and avoid takeaways.
• Sell unwanted items: Declutter and sell items online for extra cash.
• Cashback and discounts: Use cashback sites and hunt for discount codes.
• DIY gifts: Make personalised gifts to save money and add a personal touch.
• Pick up a seasonal shift: A really easy way to pick up a bit of extra cash in the winter is to find yourself some seasonal work.

Follow these practical tips from Gemma Bird to boost your savings before the festive season!

A HAIR removal specialist has warned travelers not to get a wax immediately before boarding a flight, as it could lead to painful skin problems that might spoil the start of a holiday.

Timca Pruijt, hair removal expert from Laser Hair Removalo, says the conditions inside aircraft cabins can worsen post-wax skin irritation, causing redness, increased sensitivity and potential infection risks.

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She noted that many people book last-minute beauty treatments just before flying abroad, without considering how the aircraft environment might affect freshly waxed skin.

Cabin air is extra dry

“To avoid condensation, cabin humidity is reduced dramatically to anywhere between 10% and 20%, according to the Federal Aviation Administration’s latest Aviation Weather Handbook.

“This is much lower than what your skin is used to, which is ideally between 30% and 50%, based on guidance from the US Environmental Protection Agency,” Pruijt explains.

“We can easily feel our lips chapping, our nose drying and our eyes getting itchy, but we rarely remember our skin is suffering too.”

She explains that newly waxed skin will have its protective hair layer removed, and tiny pores are left open and exposed.

“After waxing, your skin needs time to recover and close those open pores. The ultra-dry cabin air draws moisture from your skin at the worst possible time – right when it needs hydration to heal properly,” she adds.

“People often forget that waxing is not just hair removal; it is quite traumatic for the skin. You are pulling hair from the root and removing a thin layer of skin cells in the process,” she says. 

Pruijt also points out that the stress of travelling, along with changes in temperature between air-conditioned airports, hot tarmacs and cool cabins, puts additional strain on your skin’s ability to recover.

Your Skin Needs At Least 48 Hours to Heal

According to Pruijt, sitting in a confined space for hours with compromised skin creates ideal conditions for bacteria to multiply, potentially leading to spots, rashes, or even infections.

For holidaymakers who still want to be hair-free on arrival, she recommends planning beauty treatments carefully.

“Preparation is the only way you can avoid complications from waxing. This means booking your appointments well ahead and applying moisturizers before leaving the house for the airport.”

“Get your waxing done at least 48 hours before your flight. This gives your skin adequate time to recover and those open pores to close,” she advises.

She also suggests applying a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer before the flight to create a protective barrier.

Airports can be bacteria breeding ground for freshly waxed skin

“Our hands contact multiple surfaces in airports, planes, taxis, buses, and cafes. We then inevitably touch our skin with those hands, breeding with bacteria.

“You can use hand sanitizer generously and often, but bacteria are on surfaces you might sit on or accidentally touch.

“While you cannot exactly cover a waxed upper lip or brow, you could swap shorts for loose trousers and tank tops for airy, long-sleeved shirts to give your fragile skin an extra layer of protection from unsanitary surfaces and your own contaminated hands.”

The expert noted that wearing loose, comfortable clothing on the flight is essential if you have recently had a wax, particularly for sensitive areas.

“Tight clothing creates friction and traps heat and moisture, which can lead to irritation or folliculitis, when your hair follicles become inflamed,” she explains. “Opt for cotton for avoid sweating and maximize your skin’s ability to breathe.”

Last-minute waxing can cause rashes

If you are used to waxing as your preferred hair removal method, you may be reluctant to consider alternatives or combinations thereof.

“Many travelers now opt for a waxing appointment a few days before their flight and pack a small razor for touch-ups if needed during their holiday,” she says.

“If you travel often or want longer-lasting results, treatments like laser hair removal might be worth considering. Unlike waxing, once a course of laser treatments is complete, there is no need to worry about last-minute hair removal before flights.

“Ultimately, if it is too late to plan more permanent hair removal options, your best bet is packing a good old set of fresh razors and, importantly, a new loofah or gentle brush to exfoliate your sensitive, sun-bathed skin before shaving,” Pruijt notes.

“You are better off putting in the extra effort of shaving daily than walking around with a waxed, sore rash you cannot control your entire vacation.”

Sun exposure can damage sensitive skin

Pruijt also advises taking extra care with sun exposure after both waxing and flying.

“Newly waxed or dehydrated skin makes you more susceptible to sun damage.

“You should avoid applying sunscreen on freshly irritated skin, which is why, if you do need to step out the following 24 hours, cover your skin with clothing rather than sunscreen, depending on the area. Wear trousers, long-sleeved tops, a wide-brimmed hat and trainers.

“Make sure you are extra vigilant with sunscreen once you reach your destination,” she warns.”

SHE has always loved experimenting with her image and has debuted some dramatic looks over the years.

But I have heard that Little Mix star Perrie Edwards is set to show off her natural beauty after landing a lucrative deal with beauty giant L’Oreal.

The Black Magic hitmaker has secured an agreement, understood to be worth £300,000, with its skincare brand CeraVe, which prides itself on working with dermatologists and developing products for sensitive skin.

A source said: “Perrie wants to show that taking care of your skin can be affordable and people don’t need to break the bank with fancy creams.

“She has always loved testing different make- up looks, but knows that taking care of her skin is a priority. Perrie will also be able to show off her edgy side with the advert.”

The singer, who has a three-year-old son, Axel, with former Premier League footballer Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, told Fabulous magazine in 2018: “I have very sensitive skin, and I used to use loads of products on my face because I thought that was best.”

She added: “The worst thing I used to do was go out partying and drinking and just sleep with my make-up on.

“You think, ‘Oh it’s only one night, I’m too tired, I really can’t be bothered to take all my make-up off’.

“But it only takes one night for a week’s worth of acne, so you have to be strict with it.”

It comes as Perrie teased new solo music this week to her 18.8million Instagram followers with a montage of footage.

She reacted with a raindrop emoji to a fan who commented: “The drought is over!! So happy and excited for you.”

Pop star Perrie last released music in February, with her single Rollercoaster, about the ups and downs that come with love.

With this skincare deal and new music on the horizon, little wonder Perrie has such an unblemished career . . . 

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EMILIA FEELS ‘LUCKY’ BEING LEADING LADY

EMILIA FOX has revealed that she is “lucky” to have never experienced misogyny – thanks to her leading role on hit series Silent Witness.

The actress, who has played pathologist Sam Ryan for over 20 years, said: “I haven’t experienced it, and certainly, at my age now at 50, I’ve been very lucky.

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“I’ve been part of a show, which was led brilliantly by actress Amanda Burton. It was her legacy that really left the mark on the show.

“Sam Ryan was written for a leading female actress, playing a woman in a man’s world when Silent Witness first began.

“I think I got very, very lucky being able to play a lead, which I’ve been playing for two decades now.”

Emilia who is working with My Pension Expert, to encourage people turning 50 to take control of their future, said she is encouraging her teenage daughter Rose to save money.

She said: “She puts away a few pounds every week so that she will see, hopefully, a benefit in the future to saving every week.

“I hope that will be the example she then grows up with. I think having a good work ethic and savings ethic is insurance for life.”

SABRINA CARPENTER, who caused a stir with her new album cover, has unveiled an alternative one for Man’s Best Friend.

The singer wears a sparkling turquoise dress at a formal dinner. In the original, she was on all fours while a man pulled on her hair.

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Sabrina posted: “The final alternate cover for Man’s Best Friend features a special bonus track ‘Such A Funny Way’ available on vinyl. Three weeks left!!! Can’t wait for it to be yours x.” I can’t wait.

DOJA LIKE MY ZEBRA CATSUIT?

DOJA CAT gave her best zebra impression as she performed at Outside Lands Music Festival in San Francisco.

The Say So hitmaker looked hot in the monochrome catsuit at the festival held at Golden Gate Park on Friday night.

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Doja, who is set to release her fifth studio album Vie later this year, has also been working hard in the fashion world.

The American star recently shared snaps from a shoot with Marc Jacobs and posed for fashion mag V Magazine.

ONLY WAY IS ESSEX FOR EKIN-SU

SINCE her triumph on Love Island three years ago, Ekin-Su Culculoglu has remained one of the most successful contestants.

Now I can reveal that the beauty, currently starring on ITV’s Cooking With The Stars, has snapped up a £900k four-bedroom mansion in Essex, near her parents.

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Ekin was close to investing in Surrey, and even looked around some properties with ex Curtis Pritchard, but did a last minute U-turn to stay more local to her family.

A source said: “Ekin’s worked really hard since winning Love Island with ad campaigns and a steady stream of telly appearances.

“She has snapped up this home and chose somewhere more modest so she could be closer to her parents, who she spends a lot of time with.

“She’s looking forward to getting stuck in and fixing it up to her perfect style. She’s really proud of everything she’s achieved and ready to lay down roots.”

Since appearing on Love Island: All Stars in January, Ekin split with Curtis, with the star calling it “unfortunate” – but she has been concentrating on her career instead, with a focus on acting.

She better not get too comfortable in the UK as Hollywood beckons…

NOEL’S GOT S-MASH HIT ON HAND

HE famously sings that “Sally can wait” in hit song Don’t Look Back In Anger.

And it seems that Noel Gallagher’s girlfriend Sally Mash is firmly by his side during their Oasis Live 25 Tour.

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I can reveal that she has been his “secret weapon” during their sold-out tour – with the Gallagher brothers on stage for their second gig at Scottish Gas Murrayfield Stadium in Edinburgh, last night.

A source said: “Sally has been his secret weapon throughout the tour so far.

“She has been at every one of the gigs alongside brother Liam’s girlfriend Debbie Gwyther.

“Their relationship has gone from strength to strength and Sally has loved watching Noel in his element on stage.”

Noel’s daughter Anais has also been at every gig.

Last year The Sun revealed Noel was dating events organiser Sally – after confirming his split from wife Sara MacDonald, with whom he shares sons Donovan and Sonny.

Speaking about Sally, Noel previously said: “She says she sees a steely look in my eyes.”

When asked what she makes of him singing the hit 1996 song Don’t Look Back In Anger, referencing “Sally”, he said: “She’s cool about it.”

It sounds like the name Sally has been a hit all round over the years.

KYLIE JENNER certainly did not have the birthday blues as she posed in a plunging black bikini.

The Keeping Up With The Kardashians star, who turned 28 today, took to Instagram ahead of the celebrations.

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Sharing the sizzling selfie to her 393million followers, the mum of two wrote: “Last Friday as a 27-year-old.”

Her pal Hailey Bieber commented: “Twenty eight is better I promise.”

Trust me Kylie, the best is yet to come.

KYLIE’S TICKLED PINK

KYLIE MINOGUE sizzled in hot pink as she performed in Argentina as part of her worldwide Tension Tour.

The Aussie pop star wowed in the PVC outfit as she took to the stage at the Movistar Arena in Buenos Aires on Thursday – her first show in the Argentine capital for 17 years.

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Posting on Instagram to her 3.2million followers, she wrote: “Buenos Aires, how do you describe a show feeling?

“I’ve only ever dreamt of this. WHAT A SHOW!! Thank you so much.”

Kylie performed in Chile last night and will head to Sao Paulo in Brazil next Friday, with the 66-date tour wrapping up at the end of the month in Mexico.

ED AND RUPERT’S FAM WEEKENDER

ED SHEERAN has got fans seeing double in the music video for his new track A Little More.

His doppelganger Rupert Grint stars in the video – 14 years after he appeared in Ed’s hit Lego House.

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Ed, who shares daughters Lyra and Jupiter with wife Cherry Seaborn, invited the Harry Potter actor, his partner Georgia Groome and their daughters Wednesday and Goldie to stay at his home in Suffolk while filming the video.

And it was a family affair, with Ed saying: “Our daughters [Lyra and Wednesday] are exactly the same age – they get on”.

Sounds perfect.

PETE AND JOWITA GO SUPERSONIC

It seems Pete Wicks cannot let go of his Strictly Come Dancing pro partner Jowita Przystał.

The happy pair were spotted arm-in-arm at last Wednesday’s Oasis gig at Wembley Stadium.

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An onlooker said: “Pete is very fond of Jowita and they shared a sweet moment during the set.

“They have both expressed how much they mean to each other following their close bond on Strictly.”

It comes after Pete recently revealed that Jowita was “one of the most important people” in his life.

Pete, who split from Love Island’s Maura Higgins in February, revealed on his podcast with I’m A Celebrity winner Sam Thompson that he invited Jowita to the gig.

On the Staying Relevant podcast, he said: “Well the reason that Jowita and I are going [to Oasis] is because we danced to Oasis on Strictly.”

Ahead of the new Strictly series, Pete said: “I will be vetting her new partner!”

Jowita recently posted a snap of her with Pete on Instagram.

Looks like her new Strictly partner will have big shoes to fill . . . 

Maya Jama’s hair stylist has shared exactly how to recreate her sleek and glossy Love Island finale hair, including the £27 treatment that stopped frizzing in the humidity

Monday night’s Love Island finale may have finally revealed who would be crowned this season’s winner, but we still have some burning questions of our own. Namely, how did Maya Jama get her hair to stay so smooth and shiny in the Spanish heat?

With plenty of us jetting off on holiday this summer, we’ve all had our hair fall foul of the humidity, with the high temperatures and damp air leaving our hair frizzy, dry and dull looking. However Maya’s hair has never looked glossier, so we turned to her hair stylist Jay Birmingham for answers.

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Jay said: “For Maya’s Love Island finale hair, we wanted to create a dreamy, effortless look.” To make sure her hair stayed sleek and frizz-free throughout the finale, one of the first things he applied to Maya’s hair was the Color Wow Dream Coat Supernatural Spray (£27).

Jay shared that he applied it in sections before blow-drying Maya’s hair with the Dyson supersonic hairdryer, which helps to activate the treatment and creates that mirror-like shine that the Love Island host’s hair is famous for. The Color Wow spray also makes your hair waterproof, wards off humidity, protects from heat damage and seals in moisture, making it a saviour to bring in your suitcase.

Once her hair was dried, Jay used a GHD styling iron to enhance the curl definition, with particular focus on the ends. The curls were then brushed out to turn them into softer and looser waves, rather than rigid curls, to give it a more fluid look without too much texture.

The shine was why we were all so fixated on Maya’s hair, and to double up on the gloss factor Jay also added the Split Seal Serum from his own haircare brand, Jay B Haircare. This smoothed the hair and gave it that extra glossy finish.

Finally, to make sure there wasn’t a strand out of place during the finale’s drama, Jay used Living Proof’s Style Lab Flex Hair Spray to seal everything in place. He added that the hairspray is “one of my go-tos for creating effortless, flowing styles. It holds without stiffness and keeps the hair touchable and brushable throughout the night.”

And there you have it – one ultra-glossy, mirror-like shiny ‘do that Maya herself would be proud of. Now just don’t forget to pack them in your suitcase.

I’m a regular traveller, but I don’t go anywhere without this handy, practical beauty bag that I bought from Amazon years ago – and it’s now reduced in price to under £25

As someone who travels often for both work and pleasure, from overnight stays to long-haul holidays, I like to think that I’ve become something of a pro at packing neatly and concisely. For my clothes, I’ve recently invested in a set of the best packing cubes I’ve ever used, and for toiletries, this trusty Amazon bag of mine can’t be beaten.

It might not be the most luxurious or the most elegant of items (my boyfriend think it looks like an old lady’s handbag), but in terms of practicality and price, I’ve never found anything that’s even half as good – especially as it’s currently reduced from £29.99 to £23.99. Here’s why I love it so much…

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I first saw this toiletries bag recommended by celebrity hairstylist Jen Atkin on Instagram and, as she’s someone who probably always packs a lot of products, I thought it was worth trying out.

I have the larger one (there’s also a medium, and all are available in several different colours), and it’s perfect for most of my travels. Things I love about it including the hook for hanging it up in the bathroom, saving previous sink space, the compartments with elasticated straps to stop your products rolling around, and how neatly it all folds up into itself. It even fits neatly inside this handy Antler backpack (now on sale) that I use for overnight stays in the city for work.

I use the smaller two sections for things like scrunchies, tweezers and cleansing clothes, and the larger two compartments for skincare and body care. They’re large enough to fit enough stuff for a good number of days away – including a full-size deodorant and shampoo. The only additional things I sometimes need to pack separately are sun creams (I’m very sun-sensitive and so go through a lot of them!).

My make-up also goes in another bag – one like this popular Space NK zip-up one – which fits neatly into corners of suitcases and stops my products from getting crushed.

Although not particularly fancy, this fold-up Amazon toiletries bag has lasted me years and travelled all over the world with me – and I won’t be without it now.

If you did want something a little fancier, perhaps as a nice gift idea, these velvet embroidered Elizabeth Scarlett bags are perfect for make-up, and open up flat for easy access.

And for something a little more compact and minimalist – perhaps for men – Antler’s Essential Washbag is now reduced from £25 to £20.

From its bargain beaches to its variety of experiences and relaxed charm, the country is an affordable gem for those looking to holiday in Europe

When planning a European getaway, Bulgaria may not be the first destination to come to mind, but that’s exactly why it’s becoming a top pick for savvy travellers, according to travel specialists. Tucked along the Black Sea coast, this “Eastern European gem” offers far more than its modest profile suggests.

According to Daniel Howick, Travel Manager at Your Co-op Travel branches, Bulgaria continues to excel in terms of value, natural beauty, beaches and family-friendly experiences. Located in southeastern Europe, Bulgaria is generally considered a good place to visit for people interested in history, nature, and affordability.

It offers a blend of beautiful landscapes, ancient ruins, vibrant cities, and a rich cultural heritage. Below, Daniel has shared five reasons why British holidaymakers are setting their sights on Bulgaria this year – from unbeatable prices to a surprisingly rich cultural offering.

Bargain beaches without sacrificing quality

Daniel says Bulgaria’s headline attraction is its prices, which he says are hard to beat. He adds: “Whether it’s a getaway with friends or a sunshine-soaked family escape, the country routinely comes out as one of the most affordable beach destinations in Europe.

“We’ve found holidaymakers love that they can book an entire beach holiday – flights, hotel, food, and drink – for a fraction of the cost they’d pay in Spain, Portugal or Greece. Sunny Beach is a standout resort in Bulgaria that boasts a Blue Flag-awarded beach, golden sands, and a vibrant nightlife scene, as well as family-friendly amenities.”

All-inclusive comfort at self-catering prices

The travel manager says one of Bulgaria’s major appeals is how far your money goes. Holidaymakers can enjoy all-inclusive hotels for the prices typically associated with self-catering stays elsewhere in Europe.

Even those who opt to dine out will find the costs “refreshingly low”. He explains: “Because Bulgaria isn’t in the Eurozone, the cost of living is significantly lower, which means meals, drinks, and taxis are incredibly affordable.”

Experiences to suit everyone

Beyond its golden coastlines, Bulgaria often surprises visitors with its cultural and historical depth, according to Daniel. A “must-see” is Nessebar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, he says. This ancient town features cobbled streets, Byzantine churches, and Roman ruins. He adds: “Whether you’re a history buff or just looking to explore Bulgaria beyond your sun lounger, Nessebar adds an unforgettable layer of magic to your stay.”

Charm that’ll have you coming back for more

Bulgaria draws a diverse crowd, including families looking for hassle-free fun in the sun, younger groups seeking nightlife on a budget, and couples enjoying a quiet escape. But what’s especially notable, according to Daniel, is the high number of repeat visitors.

“Many travellers who take a chance on Bulgaria return again and again,” he says. “It is proof of its lasting appeal. With a variety of things to see and do, each trip to the country reveals something new.”

A hidden gem that’s easy to reach

Daniel claims that one of Bulgaria’s greatest strengths is its accessibility. Direct flights from the UK to coastal cities like Burgas are “frequent and inexpensive,” even during peak summer months.

The relatively short flight time (around three hours) adds to its “convenience”, making it ideal for long weekends or quick getaways. He said: “Add to that the low cost of airport transfers and hotel shuttles, and it’s no wonder many travellers find the overall travel experience refreshingly simple and affordable.”