bucket

According to visitors, the ‘hidden gem’ is “pure magic” and has “stunning views”

A “hidden gem” in the UK has been hailed as a “bucket list must-see” by visitors. Nestled in Porthcurno, Cornwall, the tranquil spot is celebrated for its ‘stunning views.’

The Minack Theatre, perched on the cliffs of South-West Cornwall, hosts live performances throughout the year, including plays, musicals, opera, music and children’s events. While the theatre may look as if it’s been here forever, it’s actually less than a hundred years old.

The theatre, built by Rowena Cade, has been labelled “pure magic” and “breathtaking” by visitors. While it’s a well-known treasure among locals, the Minack Theatre offers a serene escape for those from further afield.

The TikTok account @ukhiddengems posted a video highlighting the beauty of the theatre. The caption read: “Did you know about this place in England?”

In the clip, they said: “There’s a theatre in England built into the edge of a cliff and when the tide comes in, the ocean becomes the stage. It looks ancient like something the Romans might have left behind, but it was actually built less than a century ago, almost entirely by one woman.

“In the 1930s Rowena Cade carved this open-air theatre into the granite cliffs with her own hands, hauling stone and sand from the beach below. Today, it’s one of the most spectacular performance spaces in the world; a full working theatre with the Atlantic Ocean as its backdrop.

“You can sit on stone seats cut from the rock, watch waves crash beneath the stage and see plays under open skies, with gulls flying overhead. At sunset, when the light turns gold across the sea, it’s pure magic.”

TripAdvisor reviewers have also been praising the theatre, which has racked up an impressive 4.7 star rating. Among them, one person said: “Wow what a place! Little gem hidden away in Cornwall. Well worth going to take a look and take in the views. There was also a performance from a band with instramental which we sat and watched for a while. The views are unbelievable here!!”

A second wrote: “Stunning views, gardens and hospitality and entrance fee good value. Loved the effort made to tell the story and it made my trip to Cornwall.” A third review read: “Utterly breathtaking. We went on March 20th as part of a bucket list and we were not disappointed. Reading the astonishing history of this special place was in itself incredible. Seeing it in real life was amazing, we have vowed to book tickets for a performance.”

Another said: “What a beautiful place to visit! The views are breathtaking and can make some beautiful photos. I love the history of this and learning a wonderful women and her gardeners built this beautiful place when it was just a patch of grass, it’s crazy as it looks like it could be built by the Romans!”

The praise continued, with one person writing: “A truly incredible and beautiful place. All the passion and hard work by Rowena Cade and all those who worked alongside her can really be felt here. One of the most breathtaking places I have ever had coffee and cake and entry fee not extortionately expensive either. Pre booking is essential though. A bucket list must see.”

The Minack Theatre is open until December 31 and booking is essential for anyone hoping to visit. Local residents go free, but there is an entry fee for anyone else. Tickets include free readmission to the theatre for 12 months from the date of first entry.

The theatre is open for visits from 10am. Last admission may vary, depending on performance schedule, so it is worth checking opening times before you visit. The site is steep and includes many steps. It is open to the elements and surfaces may be slippery in wet weather.

Emma Ansley Knight has shared her top three recommendations for city break getaways on the continent this October, claiming they are on her ‘bucket list’ of autumnal escapes

If you’re mulling over an October getaway but haven’t settled on your destination, one travel expert has compiled a trio of European locations she believes are perfect to visit in the coming weeks. Each month, Emma Ansley Knight turns to TikTok to share video advice concerning her travel picks for the immediate period ahead.

And next month is no exception, with the revealing that as autumn vibes are kicking in, it’s time to unveil her “bucket list” of spots that are ideal to explore over the course of October before the much cooler weather sets in across the continent.

Ghent, Belgium

“This has been on my list for such a long time,” Emma admitted. “I’ve already done Bruges and Brussels, but Ghent often gets overlooked.”

Nevertheless, she noted that Ghent appears “a lot more charming” especially during autumn. “The thought of waking up there on an October morning with crisp blue skies, a little chill in the air and throwing on a jumper and walking down the canals with golden leaves on the floor is the picture of heaven in my head,” Emma declared.

Travellers can anticipate average temperatures of 14-15C in October.

Piedmont, Italy

“This place is an absolute paradise for foodies, wine lovers and truffle lovers as well,” Emma said of Piedmont, a region which borders Switzerland to the north and France to the west.

She continued: “It’s the white truffle capital of the world and there’s actually a lot of festivals that start in October (including the 2025 International Alba White Truffle Fair), so you can try pastas with different truffles or cheeses, and pair them with the local wine.”

Another advantage of travelling to Piedmont is its location at the base of the Alps – something Emma says offers “breathtaking views of unbelievable mountainous backdrops and golden vineyards”.

The area also enjoys an average October temperature of 18C, while Emma recommends flying into Turin.

Bratislava, Slovakia

Rounding off Emma’s recommendations is Slovakia’s capital, Bratislava, which she explained lies just an hour from Vienna, Austria and therefore presents a practical option should you wish to “tackle” both cities during one trip.

Emma added of the city positioned along the Danube: “Because so many people do visit Vienna, it [Bratislava] seems like a bit of a hidden gem. The old town looks so colourful, so charming and it’s also a really walkable city.”

She also highlighted that Bratislava is “a lot more affordable” than many of Europe’s other capital cities, making it an ideal choice for those wanting to keep costs down. With an average October temperature of 15C, though, anticipate a somewhat chillier experience than Piedmont.

One TikTok user, responding to Emma’s post, gushed about Ghent: “I recently did Brussels, Bruges, Ghent and Antwerp in one trip to Belgium and Ghent was definitely top of the list, it’s lovely!”

While a second person shared their approval of Emma’s third recommendation, writing: “Love Bratislava and the Christmas markets are ace.”

When mum of two Hannah Britt checked into the want-for-nothing all-inclusive Mallorca hotel with her children, she never wanted to leave

I’m just going to say it… I’m not a fan of many all-inclusives. I find that often quantity takes the place of quality when it comes to what’s actually in your glasses and on your plates. So when I was invited to check out Zafiro Palace Alcudia, my expectations were fairly low. Well let me tell you – I was wrong. Oh so very wrong. No more than 10 minutes after we’d strewn our luggage in our room and headed to the buffet, I fell head over heels with the hotel – and never wanted to leave. Let me tell you why…

WOW FOOD

The food at Zafiro Palace was nothing short of superb, with an expansive ever-changing selection to choose from. There are several a la carte restaurants to enjoy (Italian, sushi, local Mediterranean flavours) but to be honest, as a family with a one year old and a five year old, we spent every mealtime in The Market. A top-tier buffet, each night there’s a theme, be it Mexican or Asian etc, which runs alongside your classics like pasta, pizza and salads, and everything served up is delicious. There’s something for all ages to munch, from tasty mashed potato for your teething one year old, to fresh fish like John Dory and monkfish, and seafood paella. Drinks are well made and carefully considered, with premium wines and delicious cocktails. Waiters and cleaning staff whip round constantly so you want for nothing and any mess is taken care of quickly and graciously. Mealtimes, as a result of all the above, are a delight – even with tiny humans in tow.

PLAYGROUND FUN

Whoever designed the Zafiro Palace hotel clearly has young children, because to put a contained playground right next to the family buffet restaurant is a genius move. It means that once little ones are done with their food, they can run off to have a play on the bouncy castle, slides and climbing frames, while their grown ups enjoy a glass of wine, knowing they are safe and having fun nearby.

KIDS CLUB

…and right next door to said playground is a gorgeous little kids club for ages four to teens. There’s loads to do from crafting to games, with an enclosed playground for them to run around in too. There’s family entertainment too every evening, and a games area to explore.

POOL JOY

When it comes to pools, Zafiro Palace has all the whole family needs for a splashing good time. There are six swim up pools, a super-zen adults only pool surrounded by shady spots to relax, two indoor swimming pools and a kids’ pool with a pirate ship. Some rooms have private pools too, and if this is within your budget I can wholeheartedly recommend one, because it was in ours that my nervous-of-water-daughter learned to swim!

STUNNING ROOMS

When it comes to room options, there are plenty to choose from, catering to a variety of wants and budgets. All are clean, ultra modern, well-designed, spacious and airy, with large floor to ceiling windows, terraces or balconies, and expensive bedsheets. Some have hot tubs, swim up pools and private pools. Cots for babies and day beds are provided when required.

NEARBY TOWN

One of the best things about Zafiro Palace Alcudia is, as the name would suggest, Alcudia. Indeed, a short stroll away down a tree-lined street, you’ll find the stunning Old Town, with its gorgeous streets to wander down, pretty squares and delicious eateries to try. On Tuesday and Sunday mornings a visit is a must in particular as there’s a big and lively market, selling food, gifts, toys and more.

BEACH DAYS

Just a stone’s throw away from the hotel also lies Alcudia beach, a large stretch of sand surrounding a picturesque inlet of sea. This makes it incredibly calm and safe and thus very popular with families. The water is warm, clean and clear and if you can tear yourself away from your bucket and spade, there are watersports like stand up paddle boards to try too, and plenty of cafes and bars in which to have lunch, relax and wile away the day.

*Rooms at Zafiro Palace Alcudia start from €373 per night

Ben Shephard delighted fans as he continued to celebrate his milestone 50th birthday.

Ben Shephard has delighted fans by sharing his “bucket list moment” amid his break from This Morning.

The former Good Morning Britain presenter, 50, has been celebrating his milestone birthday over recent months with a series of challenges he set himself.

He’s been keeping his Instagram followers updated along the way, as he vowed to be “the fittest I’ve ever been” before his 50th birthday.

Before turning 50 in December, Ben attempted cold water swimming, walking 5k and braving ice baths.

He’s now continued his celebrations with a family trip to Australia.

Sharing a peek into his travels with his sons, Ben wrote: “ So this is just a little bit exciting!!!!

“As part of my 50th year celebrations continue (have I mentioned I’ve turned 50) a proper bucket list moment, as we’ve just landed in Australia with the family – to support the British and Irish Lions across their tests!!!!

“I’m doing a bit of work but mostly doing a lot of cheering, supporting and merch acquiring…Lions Suitcases anyone.

“Can’t wait for later – thoughts on the score??? Also in Brisbane for a few days any recommends will be gratefully received!”

Fans and friends alike rushed to share their support, with Loose Women ’s Katie Piper writing: “That’s such a great thing to do as a family.”

“So exciting,” This Morning regular Ashley James said, while Helen Skelton wrote: “What an adventure,” and Gaby Roslin said: “Have an amazing adventure.”

Carol Vorderman shared her own anecdote, commenting: “Omg Ben I was filming in Brizzie and across Queensland in 1989 (it was very different then) and bumped into the Lions in a bar in Cairns Took me days to recover but what a laugh First time I ever had shots of tequila … it wasn’t a “thing” 40 years ago Bloody hell… life’s never dull Have a great great time.”

“Have fun big man there is some@great place to eat out there enjoy,” Jamie Oliver added.

Ben proved his challenges to be as fit as he could be paid off with a shoot in May showing off his six-pack.

Recreating his Men’s Health cover from 13 years ago, the TV presenter revealed his toned body, saying: “To get stronger, physically and mentally, is definitely harder the older you get. In my forties, I was still on the attack. In my fifties, I’m on the defensive.

“It’s all about how I prolong things now – not going out and smashing it left, right and centre.

“Proving to yourself you have the discipline to do something, proving you can be accountable to yourself is incredibly seductive and infectious. The more you get of that, the more you want it.”

Ben went on to explain that he appreciates his body now more than his 2012 photoshoot, and would “love” to recreate it again when he turns 60.

He told Men’s Health : “I think I value the condition I’m in now more than in 2012. I’ve got more lean muscle, that’s for sure.

“There are parts of my body that are bigger. I think my body fat is a little bit higher than it was then. Back then it was probably single figures and I think I’m about 10.5% to 10.8% now – which is extraordinary when you think I’m 13 years older.”

This Morning airs weekdays from 10am on ITV1.

Lexie, who has 1.5 million followers on Instagram, sat down with the Mirror to share the two islands she is desperate to visit, on the same day Expedia released the 2025 Island Hot List

A record-breaking traveller has revealed the two islands she is desperate to visit.

Lexie Limitless is certifiably well-travelled. The record-breaking adventurer had visited every country on Earth by age 21, earning her multiple Guinness World Records. If that weren’t enough globe-trotting, she recently became the first person to circumnavigate the Earth in an electric vehicle, a project with Ford called Charge Around The Globe.

Now, the 27-year-old has teamed up with Expedia to share her pro tips and island hacks. “There’s something magical about island life. Time slows down, the air feels thick yet fresh, and the locals’ connection to nature is undeniable. Islands are little pockets of culture and tradition surrounded by endless ocean, which makes for the perfect environment to escape your routine,” Lexie explained.

“After a very hectic past few years, I’m not surprised Expedia is seeing a spike in island travel. I think people are craving a real escape, and islands offer exactly that. A lot of people, myself included, crave feeling secluded and immersed in an entirely different, slower culture. Islands check every box, whether you’re looking for adventure, wellness, or just to disconnect.”

Lexie, who has 1.5 million followers on Instagram, sat down with the Mirror to share the two islands she is desperate to visit, on the same day Expedia released the 2025 Island Hot List.

Koh Samui, Thailand

Named the best island for affordable luxury by Expedia, Koh Samui has had a big year. It featured as the backdrop for the latest season of White Lotus, capturing viewers with its white sand beaches, amazing hotels, and waving palm trees just as much as the show did with its plot.

“I’ve really wanted to travel there since White Lotus came out. I have been to Thailand many times, backpacking, and it is one of the most affordable backpacking destinations. When people ask where to go, I always say ‘see Asia and Thailand’,” Lexie said.

As well as plenty of beautiful spots by the beach and pools to relax, Koh Samui offers popular attractions including the Big Buddha Temple (Wat Phra Yai), Ang Thong National Marine Park, and Fisherman’s Village. The abundance of markets and waterfalls should also be on your to-do list.

Sardinia, Italy

Not a million miles away geographically or landscape-wise from the filming location of season two of White Lotus (Sicily), the large Italian island floating in the middle of the Mediterranean took Lexie’s spot as the second place on her island bucket list.

“Sardinia, definitely. I haven’t made it there yet, but Italy is one of my favourite countries to travel to. I have been to Italy 5 to 10 times, but there are so many places I haven’t been to yet,” she said.

There’s a huge amount in Sardinia to keep you busy. Popular options include visiting the Costa Smeralda for luxury and nightlife, exploring the Maddalena Archipelago for sailing and beaches, and discovering the ancient ruins of Nora or Su Nuraxi.

Lexie’s advice for making the most of trips to such places is not to plan too hard and to keep your mind open to the possibility of adventure. “Always keep your mind open to unexpected adventures. With so many travel guides and TikTok showing what’s going on at each island, you can get caught up in having that perfectly curated plan,” she explained.

The below destinations have made it onto Expedia’s global Island Hot List:

• Aruba (Best for Year-Round Sunshine)
• Bali, Indonesia (Best for Relaxation)
• Dominican Republic (Best for Adventure)
• Fiji (Best for Community)
• Jamaica (Best for Culture)
• Maldives (Best for Romance)
• Oahu, Hawaii (Best for Surfing)
• Paros, Greece (Best for Nightlife)
• Sardinia, Italy (Best for Food Lovers)
• Koh Samui, Thailand (Best for Affordable Luxury)