Charming

This picturesque fishing village in Waterford has everything needed for a tranquil getaway, yet it’s often overlooked by those visiting Ireland’s coast

Compact and picturesque, this Waterford fishing village offers everything required for a peaceful retreat, yet it frequently goes unnoticed by visitors exploring Ireland‘s coastline.

Nestled discreetly on the western edge of Waterford Harbour lies the charming village of Dunmore East, where there’s far more to discover than initially apparent.

Boasting up to six hidden beach coves and numerous scenic walking routes, visitors can fully embrace the splendour of the Irish seaboard.

While it’s thought people have lived in the village since pre-Iron Age times, the area truly flourished during the 1800s when it evolved into a holiday destination.

Playing a significant role in the fishing trade, featuring a delightful beach, a working harbour and an extensive selection of restaurants, it remains an excellent escape from everyday life, even now.

Beaches

Waterford itself boasts up to 147 km of coastline, with Dunmore East comprising part of that stretch, hosting up to six coves throughout the village alone.

These provide ideal locations for snorkelling and swimming, with two principal beaches proving most favoured amongst visitors – Councillors Beach and Lawlors Beach.

Best UK holiday cottage deals

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

From £27 per night

Sykes Cottages

https://go.skimresources.com?id=76202X1526515&xs=1&xcust=Mirror&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sykescottages.co.uk

Sykes Cottages offers a wide range of handpicked holiday homes across the UK and Ireland, from cosy countryside retreats to stunning coastal escapes. Prices start from £27 per night

Lawlor’s is situated directly in the village centre, whilst Councillors is a south-facing shore overlooking dramatic cliffs. One recent visitor posted a Google review, describing it as a “beautiful beach with stunning cliff views”, while another remarked it was “popular for a reason”.

They added: “The most popular beach in Dunmore, which can lead to it becoming crowded at times; however, it is popular for a reason.

“It is the largest beach here, so there is adequate space for everyone. It is sandy rather than rocky, and it is located in an area with very safe water, and lifeguards are on duty often.”

Walks

The standout trail in the vicinity, and arguably throughout the whole of Waterford, is the Dunmore East Cliff Walk, spanning 5km along the shoreline. During the 1830s, the path served as a commuter route for labourers travelling between Portally and Ballymacaw.

It’s a route suitable for all fitness levels and ages, typically taking around two hours to complete, whilst showcasing breathtaking scenery and abundant wildlife throughout.

Particularly noteworthy are the sweeping coastal vistas, including views of Hook Head Lighthouse – one of the world’s oldest functioning lighthouses.

One walker described their experience on TripAdvisor, noting: “An absolutely gorgeous and easy walk along the cliffs above the sea. Stunning vistas, pretty flowers, pastures of sheep and cows. We took a lot of photos! The path is well marked and easy enough for a basic level of fitness.”

For something slightly different, there’s also the Dunmore East Woods walk, guiding you through an impressive 42-acre woodland expanse teeming with wildlife. Visitors can complete a circular route of the grounds or opt to discover one of the four distinct zones within it.

Restaurants

Dining in Dunmore East is an absolute must for genuine food enthusiasts, with numerous establishments offering locally caught seafood that diners consistently praise. A considerable number of these eateries also feature stunning coastal panoramas to complement your meal.

According to TripAdvisor ratings, the village’s top culinary destination is Azzurro, a family-operated restaurant and bar. They primarily offer Mediterranean fare, which patrons have labelled “top class”.

One delighted customer wrote: “This restaurant is top class. Pizzas to die for as well as heavenly desserts. Peroni on draught and fab coffee also. Pleasant and efficient staff. Can’t recommend highly enough.”

For highly-rated seafood in Dunmore East, The Strand Inn Seafood Restaurant sits directly on the waterfront, commanding views across the bay. A previous visitor shared: “Really exceptional service and a great energy in the restaurant and bar.

“Amazing views, sea air, great chowder. The front of house is very helpful, and I can’t recommend it more. It feels like a five-star hotel.”

Additional favourites amongst both locals and visitors include the Bay Café and Harper’s Point, perfect for a swift coffee or midday meal. A recent patron described the Bay café as “uniquely beautiful and quaint”, with many stumbling upon it during their seaside strolls.

Nestled in Derbyshire, this charming village of fewer than 200 people boasts a stunning Jacobean manor house dating from 1609, traditional tearoom and a 13-mile scenic trail

This picturesque village has less than than 200 residents and has been carefully preserved to maintain its quintessentially English character and heritage.

Tissington stands out as the perfect postcard destination – a serene Derbyshire village offering visitors an incredibly tranquil escape. Dotted with charming cottages constructed around a magnificent Hall, complete with a duck pond and traditional tea rooms, the location exudes old-world appeal.

Its remarkable conservation is credited to the FitzHerbert family, who’ve maintained ownership for more than four centuries whilst remaining active members of the community. The affluent family resides at the Hall, which forms Tissington’s beating heart.

Their ancestral connection runs so profoundly through the area that the local church, St Mary’s, features numerous tributes to departed family members.

Best Derbyshire holiday cottage deals

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

From £32 per night

Sykes Cottages

See the deals

Derbyshire is known for its dramatic Peak District landscapes, historic market towns and stately country houses. Sykes Cottages has hundreds of places to stay, with prices from £32 per night.

Tissington Hall

Standing proud at the village centre is the stunning hall, originally constructed back in 1609 by Francis FitzHerbert as a Jacobean manor house. Sir Richard inherited the property in 1989 and currently lives there alongside his wife and their four children.

It holds distinction as one of merely 300 properties across Britain where direct descendants of the original builder still reside. Season after season, the family continues welcoming visitors to the estate, offering access to explore the magnificent interiors and spectacular flourishing gardens.

Entry currently costs £16 for adults, whilst children under five can access the grounds free of charge. The site welcomes visitors between 12pm and 3pm, with guided tours available every half hour by appointment.

Food and Drink

Tucked away in this charming village sits the beloved Herbert’s Tearoom, providing the perfect pit stop for ramblers and cyclists exploring the Peak District. The tearoom dishes up mouth-watering cakes alongside tea and coffee in a quintessentially British atmosphere, with seating available both inside and outdoors.

A satisfied visitor recently posted on TripAdvisor: “We love visiting this beautiful tea room for a light lunch, especially after a leisurely stroll around the peaceful and relaxing village. Excellent food, very pleasant and attentive staff, reasonable prices and consistently high standard of customer service.”

Though Tissington lacks a traditional countryside pub within its boundaries, several excellent spots can be found on the village outskirts. The Old Dog in nearby Thorpe prides itself on delivering ‘unfussy’ quality grub in a welcoming atmosphere, championing locally sourced produce.

Further along, guests can enjoy a meal at the Sycamore Inn in Parwich or pop in for a pint at the Coach and Horses in Ashbourne. Despite its tranquil, remote character, the village sits within easy reach of numerous superb Derbyshire dining spots.

Tissington Trail

Stretching 13 miles across the Peak District, the Tissington Trail has become a firm favourite with ramblers, following the path of a former railway line. The route is largely level, making it highly accessible, while still delivering breathtaking views and the chance to explore the charming village of Tissington.

Originally part of the London and North Western Railway connecting Buxton and Ashbourne from 1899, the line was eventually shut down. Nearly seven decades later, the Peak District National Park acquired the land and transformed it into the beloved trail, creating a vehicle-free haven for walkers and cyclists alike.

One visitor wrote: “We all went out as a family and had a brill day. The routes are well maintained and are fairly flat apart from the odd big hill. The scenery and views are stunning, and it’s not too busy.”

Another claimed: “We walked from Ashbourne to Tissington, and the route was lovely, with some great scenery. We particularly liked the old Tissington railway station, where we stopped for a picnic before wandering around the village and walking back again.”

Sharing with the 1989 Tom Hanks film a title, a vague premise, a little paranoid spirit and a Universal Studios backlot street, “The ‘Burbs,” premiering Sunday on Peacock, stars Keke Palmer and Jack Whitehall as newlywed new parents who have moved into the house he grew up in — his parents are on “a cruise forever” — in Hinkley Hills, the self-proclaimed “safest town in America.”

Well, obviously not. First of all, that’s not a real thing. But more to the point, no one’s going to make an eight-hour streaming series (ending in a cliffhanger) about an actually safe town. Even Sheriff Taylor had the occasion to welcome someone worse than Otis the town drunk into the Mayberry jail. In post-post-war American culture, suburbs and small towns are more often than not a stage for secrets, sorrows, scandals and satire. The stories of John Cheever, the novels of Stephen King, “The Stepford Wives,” “Blue Velvet” and its godchild “Twin Peaks,” “Desperate Housewives” (filmed on the same backlot street as “The ‘Burbs”), “Buffy the Vampire Slayer,” last year’s “Grosse Pointe Garden Society,” which I mention in protest of its cancellation, are set there — it’s a long list.

Samira Fisher (Palmer) is a civil litigation lawyer still on maternity leave, a job reflecting her inquisitive, inquisitorial nature. Husband Rob (Whitehall) is a book editor, a fact referred to only twice in eight hours, but which allows for scenes in which he rides a soundstage commuter train to the big city (presumably New York) with boyhood friend and once-more next-door neighbor Naveen (Kapil Talwalkar), whose wife has just left him for their dentist. Samira, Naveen and Rory (Kyrie McAlpin), an overachieving late tween who has a merit badge in swaddling, a recommendation from Michelle Obama on her mother’s helper resume and a notary public’s license, are the only people of color in town, but racism isn’t really an issue, past a few raised eyebrows and odd comment. (“What a cute little mocha munchkin,” says a shifty librarian of baby Miles.) “It’s a nice area,” says Naveen, “and people like to think of themselves as nice, so they try to act nice until they’re actually nice.”

As we open, the Fishers have been tentatively residing on Ashfield Place (“over by Ashfield Street near Ashfield Crescent”), for some indeterminable short time. Apart from Naveen, neither has met, or as much as spoken to, any of their new neighbors, though Samira — feeling insecure postpartum and going out only at night to push Miles in his stroller — watches them through the window.

That will change, of course, or this will be one of television’s most radically conceived shows. Fascinated by a dilapidated, supposedly uninhabited house across the street — the same backlot where the Munsters mansion rose many years ago, for your drawer of fun facts — she’s drawn out into a mystery: The rumor is that 20 years earlier a teenage girl was killed and buried there by her parents, who subsequently disappeared. Rob says there’s nothing in it, and in a way that tells you maybe there is.

Lynn (Julia Duffy), left, Samira (Keke Palmer), Dana (Paula Pell) and Tod (Mark Proksch) form a crew of sleuthing neighbors.

(Elizabeth Morris / Peacock)

Out in the world, she will find her quirky Scooby Gang: widow Lynn (Julia Duffy), still attached to her late husband; Dana (Paula Pell), a retired Marine whose wife has been deployed to somewhere she can’t reveal; and Tod (Mark Proksch), a taciturn, deadpan “lone wolf” with an assortment of skills and a recumbent tricycle. (Their shared nemeses is Agnes, played by Danielle Kennedy, “our evil overlord,” the stiff-necked president of the homeowner’s association.) They bond over wine (drinking it) and close ranks around Samira after the police roust her on her own front porch. By the end of the first episode, Samira is determined to stay in Hinkley Hills, warmed by new friends, enchanted by the fireflies and in love with the “sweet suburban air.”

Weird goings-on in a creepy old “haunted” house is as basic a trope as exists in the horror-comedy mystery genre (see Martin and Lewis’ “Scared Stiff,” Bob Hope’s “The Ghost Breakers,” Abbott and Costello’s “Hold That Ghost” and assorted Three Stooges shorts). Suddenly there’s a “for sale” sign on this one, and just as suddenly, it’s sold. The new owner is Gary (Justin Kirk), who chases off anyone who comes around. Tod notes that the security system he’s installed is “overkill” for a private residence, necessary only “if you are in danger, you have something to hide — or both.” You are meant to regard him as suspicious; Samira does.

Created by Celeste Hughey, “The ‘Burbs” is pretty good, a good time — not the most elegant description, but probably the words that would come out of my mouth were you to ask me, conversationally, how it was. I suppose most of it adds up even if doesn’t always feel that way while watching it. It hops from tone to tone, and goes on a little long, in the modern manner, which dilutes the suspense. The characters are half-, let’s say three-quarters-formed, which is formed enough; everyone plays their part. The Hardy Boys were not known for psychological depth, and I read a lot of those books. A lot. Indeed, depth would only get in the way of the plot, which is primarily concerned with fooling you and fooling you again. When a character isn’t what they seem, making the false front too emotionally relatable is counterproductive; the viewer, using myself as an example, will feel cheated, annoyed. I won’t say whether that happens here.

That isn’t to say that the actors, every one of them, aren’t as good as can be. I’ll show up for Pell and Duffy anywhere, anytime. Proksch, well known to viewers of Tim Heidecker’s “On Cinema at the Cinema,” is weird in an original way. The British Whitehall, primarily known as a stand-up comedian, panel show guest and presenter, makes a fine romantic lead. Kirk is appealingly standoffish, if such a thing might be imagined. As Samira’s brother, Langston, RJ Cyler has only a small role, but he pops onscreen and, having the advantage of not being tied up in any of the major plotlines, provides something of a relief from them. And Palmer, an old pro at 32 — her career goes back to “Akeelah and the Bee” and Nickelodeon’s “True Jackson” — does all sorts of wonderful small things with her face and her voice. She’s an excellent Nancy Drew, and the world can never have enough of those.

The picturesque village boasts 1,000 years of rich history, stunning churches and marvellous buildings, as well as a legendary haunted pub.

A picturesque Lancashire village renowned for its medieval heritage, stunning landscapes, and a celebrated pub with a spooky history is being praised as essential viewing by visitors.

Nestled between Ribble Valley and the Forest of Bowland Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), this charming hamlet offers the perfect peaceful retreat, particularly for those passionate about history.

With origins stretching back at least 1,000 years, the serene village of Chipping features in the Domesday Book as Chippenden; the name stems from ‘Chepyn’ meaning ‘market place’.

The settlement experienced significant wealth in bygone eras, flourishing throughout the Industrial Revolution, when seven mills operated along Chipping Brook’s banks.

Best Lancashire holiday cottage deals

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

From £42 a night

Sykes Cottages

See the deals

Lancashire is known for its wide open skies, stunning landscapes and lively coastal resorts. Sykes Cottages has a wide range of self catering accommodation across the county from £42 a night.

Chipping possesses a fascinating and layered past, with its period buildings ranking among the village’s premier attractions.

Wandering through this delightful village feels remarkably like travelling back in time, with the scenic hamlet radiating an unmistakably medieval yet captivating atmosphere, reports Lancs Live.

Indeed, numerous stone cottages throughout the village date back to the 1600s and 1700s, enhancing its historical appeal.

St Bartholomew’s Church

The village of Chipping houses the 13th-century St Bartholomew’s Church, an active Anglican church with Grade II Listed status, positioned at the village centre and partially restored in 1505, 1706, and throughout the 19th Century.

St Bartholomew’s Church boasts an ancient yew tree within its grounds – a magnificent landmark renowned throughout the county – thought to be more than a century old.

A sundial from 1708 can also be discovered in the churchyard on the southern side of the main structure.

Open for private prayer daily between 10am and 3.30pm, this beautiful church has occupied its present site for more than 500 years and forms an integral part of Chipping’s medieval heritage.

St Mary’s Church

After the 16th-century Protestant Reformation, publicly practising Catholicism became unlawful, yet several local landowners who stayed Catholic proceeded to create a handful of worship centres on their properties.

One was in Chipping, founded by the Welds of Leagram Hall.

In 1827, George Weld donated funds and land to build the openly Catholic St Mary’s Church in Chipping village, just before Catholic Emancipation in 1829.

He also constructed an adjoining priest’s house and a school (now serving as a parish hall) around the same period, which remain standing as the buildings we observe in the village today.

Other medieval attractions

Another medieval site in Lancashire’s Chipping is Hesketh End on Judd Holmes Lane – a Grade I Listed Building originating from 1591 and the early 17th century, which underwent restoration in 1907.

The Grade II Listed Woolfen Hall, potentially dating back to the 16th century and nestled at the base of nearby Parlick Hill, is a must-see when visiting Chipping.

The village boasts two incredibly popular pubs: The Sun Inn, a welcoming yet infamously legendary 17th-century pub, sits unassumingly on the corner of Chipping’s main street, proudly displaying its rich history of spectral tales.

Chipping’s other well-loved watering hole is The Tillotson’s Arms on Talbot Street. Constructed around 1836 and historically known as the Buck Inn, it has since been renamed to The Tilly’s.

Surrounded by the picturesque countryside and boasting a lively market centre, this charming mill town offers no shortage of activities for those keen to explore its many attractions.

A charming market town in Lancashire boasts what’s been dubbed the ‘finest house and garden’ in the entire county – and the best part is, entry won’t cost you a penny.

Accrington, Lancashire’s well-kept secret, is packed with culture, stunning natural landscapes, and rich heritage, guaranteeing something special for every visitor who makes the journey. Nestled amongst rolling countryside and featuring a thriving market at its centre, this historic mill town offers no shortage of activities for those keen to explore its many attractions.

Among the standout destinations in Accrington is an art gallery housing the spectacular Tiffany Glass Collection, which art enthusiasts simply cannot miss.

The Haworth Art Gallery and Museum is an essential stop for lovers of art and history alike, and according to Visit Lancashire, it’s also where you’ll find ‘Lancashire’s finest house and garden’, reports Lancs Live.

Originally known as Hollins Hill, the Haworth Art Gallery and Museum was first constructed for siblings William and Anne Haworth, and has been carefully ‘designed in the Arts and Crafts style’.

Bequeathed by the brother and sister to serve as a museum, art gallery and public park for Accrington’s residents, this historically important building welcomes visitors throughout the year, with absolutely no admission fee.

Bursting with elaborate details and stunning features, every corner of this remarkable building has been ‘inspired by nature and made with a love of materials and craftsmanship’.

In its current incarnation, the property’s historic stables and coach house have been transformed into Artists’ Studios, providing workspace for numerous skilled artisans who create and sell their pieces on the gallery-museum’s prestigious premises.

Spanning nine acres of parkland, this historic site provides refuge in its rose garden, room to relax on sweeping lawns, or chances to wander through the woodland encircling this house-turned-gallery.

Guests can also enjoy a genuine dining experience at the venue’s licensed Gallery Kitchen, located in Haworth’s original Arts and Crafts dining room.

However, the standout attraction of the Haworth Art Gallery and Museum is arguably its stunning Tiffany Collection.

This assemblage of beautiful American glassware was presented to the town by Accrington-born Joseph Briggs, who, following an apprenticeship as an engraver, relocated to New York at just 17 years old.

Joseph worked at Tiffany for roughly 40 years, starting out as an errand boy before eventually ascending to managing director of the world-famous company.

This glassware collection, produced by the legendary designer Louis Comfort Tiffany, was dispatched by Joseph to Accrington in 1933. The iconic works remain on permanent public display throughout four themed galleries within the art venue.

One review of the art gallery and museum on Tripadvisor reads: “Beautiful art gallery with a wonderful collection of tiffany glass. The surrounding gardens are very pretty. Had a fantastic lunch in the cafe.”

Another satisfied visitor shared their experience: “Most interesting place which still has the feel of a large family home in the Arts and Crafts style with superb Tiffany exhibits and other items of interest. Excellent tea room and gift shop with pleasant gardens . We will definitely come again.”

Key information for visitors

Entry to the Haworth Art Gallery and Museum in Accrington, including parking at the gallery, is absolutely free. For 2026, the attraction welcomes visitors from January 1 to December 20, Wednesday through Sunday from 12pm to 4.30pm.

The Gallery Kitchen operates on the same days and dates, but timings differ slightly, with service starting from 11.30pm to 4.30pm. Last admission to the house is at 4pm and the building is closed over Christmas and New Year.

Must-see attractions in Accrington

For those keen to delve deeper into Accrington, Oswaldtwistle Mills is another must-see attraction in the town. This historic cotton mill played a crucial role during the Industrial Revolution and is the birthplace of the spinning Jenny.

Accrington also offers an array of splendid green spaces, including Oak Hill Park and Memorial Park situated in Great Harwood.

Those passionate about history and architecture shouldn’t miss the Victorian Market Hall during their stay – a landmark that opened for business in 1869 and continues to serve as the community’s beating heart – along with the Town Hall, a favourite venue for weddings and celebrations.

This delightful market town is also renowned for its yearly celebrations including the Soapbox Challenge and The Accrington Food Festival, offering visitors a delicious insight into the area’s culture and culinary scene.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, art aficionado, or someone simply wanting to enjoy the natural surroundings and local character, Accrington provides plenty to suit every preference, allowing guests to discover the town’s enchantment for themselves.

Best Lancashire holiday cottage deals

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

From £42 a night

Sykes Cottages

See the deals

Lancashire is known for its wide open skies, stunning landscapes and lively coastal resorts. Sykes Cottages has a wide range of self catering accommodation across the county from £42 a night.

This village is a hidden gem of a holiday spot, perfect for nature lovers and those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life with walks through the North York Moors

When it comes to villages, this Yorkshire treasure, nestled 20 miles from York, offers picture-postcard perfection with its honey-hued stone cottages and undulating countryside.

Coxwold attracts many visitors who embark on walks and cycling routes across the North York Moors, amongst England’s most breathtaking expanses of open landscape.

Stunning woodland, waterways and lush heather moorland encircle the village, providing ample opportunity for exploration as you pass through and pause here.

Upon arriving in the village, the striking 15th century church of St Michael’s immediately catches the eye, perched atop a hillside – making for a delightful stroll.

Once you reach the summit, panoramic vistas of the village sprawl before you in all its cobbled magnificence.

The Fauconberg serves as the village’s focal point, a pub catering to both residents and visitors in a classic Yorkshire establishment atmosphere, offering wholesome, satisfying meals.

It doubles as a well-established inn featuring the cosiest log fires, timber beams and stone-flagged floors, providing the perfect retreat following a day of exploring.

One diner posted their review on TripAdvisor, saying: “Sunday lunch was very tasty with generous portion sizes. The service was quick, efficient and very friendly. I would thoroughly recommend a meal here in this lovely pub/restaurant. We will definitely be returning.”

A delightful way to spend time here is by strolling from the village through the Beacon Banks to Husthwaite – a straightforward route with minimal effort required.

It’s recommended that you leave your car on the main street, walk past the church for half a mile until you spot a footpath on your left, where your journey commences.

Each village boasts a pub, making them ideal refreshment stops, whilst the true highlight of the trek is the mile and a half stretch along Beacon Banks, providing breathtaking panoramas.

Your return to Coxwold winds through serene countryside, completing what should amount to a three and a half hour ramble covering five miles.

Nearby sits the magnificent Byland Abbey, formerly celebrated as one of the most significant Cistercian monasteries in the north and still stands at great height.

The ruins identify it as amongst the earliest examples of Gothic architecture in the area, featuring remarkable medieval floor tiles that earn it international recognition.

At the location, visitors can explore the museum, which contains countless artefacts discovered on the grounds. Alongside these are exquisite illustrations offering deeper understanding of monastic life before its dissolution.

One recent visitor shared: “Absolutely blown away! English heritage site which was free admittance. We spent over an hour exploring this stunning 12th-century church, nothing was out of bounds and a real feel for this wonderful construction. Car parking was free and opposite the church.”

Save on the best holiday cottages in Yorkshire

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

From £31 per night

Sykes Cottages

See the deals

Famous for its dramatic landscapes, historic cities, hearty food, and rich cultural heritage Yorkshire is just waiting to be explored. Sykes Cottages has a large number of properties to choose from with prices from £31 per night.

PATSY KENSIT has told how she had an affair at 23 with Sixties acting icon Terence Stamp – 30 years her senior.

The unlikely relationship was sparked while they were filming 1991 crime thriller Prince Of Shadows in Madrid.

Actress and former rock chick Patsy, 57, who has more recently appeared in EastEnders and Death In Paradise, recalled: “I had a lost few months with Terence when I was very young, but it was all a dream and he was the perfect gentleman.”

Oscar-nominated Terence, star of the original Superman movies and an accomplished author, died in LA last year aged 87.

Patsy said in an exclusive interview with The Sun on Sunday: “I first met him at a dinner party in Chelsea through a girlfriend. I was sitting next to him on the table plan and had read all of his books, The Stamp Collection Cookbook.  He was such a great writer, so I was a bit of a superfan.”

She added: “He was probably the most beautiful man I’d ever seen.”

Weeks later, Patsy signed up to play beautiful prostitute Rebeca in the Spanish movie and she suggested Terence to appear opposite her as hero Darman.

He had been making his first attempt at directing a film, but after three weeks it was abandoned with a loss of $5million, so the Spanish project marked his return to acting.

Patsy recalled: “I was offered this film in Spain and the director had wanted Anthony Hopkins to play opposite me, but he was busy, so I mentioned Terence and they jumped at the chance.

‘Little monkey’

“So as soon as we knew we were going to do the movie together, he took me to a fish restaurant called Greens and he had the most beautiful eyes, stunning blue.

“On location, our friendship grew stronger and more intense.

“We had several love scenes in the film — shooting them is never sexy, but having said that, it can feel intimate.

“The food was fantastic in Madrid and, after filming, he’d take me to little restaurants he found. We had a very strong connection immediately, and spent a lot of time together.

“He told stories about Julie Christie [his co-star in 1967’s Far From The Madding Crowd] and was nominated for an Oscar for his role in Billy Budd, which was his breakthrough.

“He knew Michael Caine. I was born the year of the monkey and he always used to say to me, ‘You’re such a little monkey, Patsy’. He was so old-school and a forgotten era.

“We were star-crossed lovers and he was a total gentleman. Even though there was an age gap, we had a strong bond. He was an amazing and generous lover.”

Terence loved to write, and sent Patsy dozens of love notes, as well as regularly writing to her mum Margaret, who joined her on set during filming.

Patsy said: “He used to write me these wonderful love letters about lucid dreams he had.

We were star-crossed lovers and he was a total gentleman. Even though there was an age gap, we had a strong bond. He was an amazing and generous lover

Patsy Kensit

“His handwriting was like art. I’ve still got them in storage, I couldn’t bear to part with them.

“He was really ahead of the game with modern medicine and homeopathy and my mum was dying of cancer at the time. When she died, I discovered all these letters he had been writing to her. They were in regular correspondence and he was encouraging her to take all these supplements and eat certain foods.”

Back in London, Patsy and Terence carried on dating. She said: “He was living in Piccadilly, in an incredible apartment with a roaring fireplace and a big, beautiful kitchen.

“The doorman would let me in — he had a twinkle in his eye and would say, ‘Are you here to see Mr Stamp?’. I imagine he had many visitors. Terence took me to restaurants and museums.

“It was a lost few months in my life and a beautiful time.”

Then Patsy had to leave London for Los Angeles to film 1991 sci-fi film Timebomb, and she ended their brief fling.

She said: “And suddenly, it was over. I was young and stupid.”

Ironically, Patsy — who has been married four times — first met her second husband, Simple Minds singer Jim Kerr, in Madrid while she was filming with Terence. They married in 1992 and had a son, James.

She recalled: “We were filming at the Palace Hotel and we were shooting in a corridor.

“We heard this strong Scottish accent saying, ‘I need to get out of my room, I can’t wait’, and it was Jim Kerr.

“And he looked at me and went, ‘Oh hello’, at which point Terence walked back into the bedroom.

“At the end of the day, an assistant appeared with a note from Jim saying, ‘If you’re ever in Scotland, I’ll happily show you the mountains’. Eventually I did, and it led to a marriage and a baby.”

The doorman would let me in — he had a twinkle in his eye and would say, ‘Are you here to see Mr Stamp?’. I imagine he had many visitors. Terence took me to restaurants and museums

Patsy Kensit

Patsy, who also has son Lennon with ex-husband Liam Gallagher, is writing an autobiography — and has plenty of material.

Her dad Jimmy, a sharp dresser who drove an Aston Martin, was an associate of the Kray brothers, and her glamorous mum Margaret acted as a chaperone to Patsy, who began her career as a child actress.

She appeared with Robert Redford and Mia Farrow in The Great Gatsby in 1974, and she and her mum often hung out with Elizabeth Taylor when Patsy played her daughter in 1976’s The Blue Bird.

Elizabeth would cook spaghetti for Patsy and her mum, and let the six-year-old play catch with her Krupp diamond, given to her by husband Richard Burton.

Recalling working with Robert Redford, who died last year, Patsy said: “I was only four and a half, but I remember it all so clearly.

“He was a handsome, tall, blond man and whenever he walked on to the set, all the women would get giggly, including my mum.

“I remember being driven to Pinewood in a Rolls-Royce to get fitted in Ralph Lauren costumes for the movie. It was another world.”

The safest city in Europe is a gorgeous Alpine destination.

Whilst travel can never be entirely without risk, certain holiday spots prove considerably safer than their counterparts. Research conducted by Reassured has crowned Salzburg in Austria as Europe’s most secure city.

The Austrian gem boasts minimal crime levels, with Numbeo data revealing that precious few residents fret about potential attacks or vandalism. An impressive 90 per cent of locals reported feeling secure whilst strolling solo after dark.

Little wonder that Reassured has also hailed it amongst the finest destinations for expat families to settle. Famed as Mozart’s birthplace, Salzburg draws countless visitors year-round.

The historic Old Town, or Altstadt, proves perfectly walkable, with the city’s premier attractions clustered within easy reach of one another, reports the Express.

One holidaymaker, ‘Robert P’, shared on Tripadvisor: “Lovely area to walk around, small enough not to tire the feet. Salzburg is almost the perfect tourist town, history and scenery combined.”

Swiss city Zug and the Netherlands’ Leiden claimed the subsequent spots on the safety rankings, both featuring similarly low criminal activity rates.

Switzerland commanded the listings, with numerous other Swiss cities securing places in the safety table.

Every featured destination scored significantly higher for safety than major British cities such as London and Leeds.

Europe’s safest cities

• Vienna, Austria
• Prague, Czechia
• Rome, Italy
• Helsinki, Finland
• Salzburg, Austria
• Nuremberg, Germany
• Innsbruck, Austria
• Bergen, Norway
• Galway, Ireland
• Trieste, Italy

The perfect winter escape awaits just 4.5 hours from London, with temperatures reaching 22 °C and 300 days of sunshine annually. As well as charming mountain villages, visitors to Cyprus can also explore the world’s only divided capital, Nicosia.

Brits looking for a sun-drenched getaway might want to consider this English-speaking island, just a short flight from the UK, with pleasant winter temperatures of 22 °C. Only a four-and-a-half-hour journey from London, this Mediterranean gem offers a welcome break from the UK’s current cold, wet weather.

With year-round sunshine and flowers beginning to bloom in March, Cyprus is a fantastic choice for families, offering numerous family-friendly hotels. The island also features a range of activities, from walking trails to discovering a variety of cultural and historical sites.

Winter sees fewer visitors, making it the perfect time to explore popular attractions without the lengthy queues. Whilst partygoers will be drawn to Ayia Napa, one of Europe’s top party destinations, those seeking blissful tranquillity can bask in the island’s 300 days of sunshine each year.

READ MORE: All holidays cancelled as major UK travel company collapses after 30 years

A trip into the Troodos Mountains unveils stunning scenery and a delightful village nestled in the valley below. In a surprising twist, there’s even a ski resort located within the breathtaking Troodos Mountain Range. Operating from January to March, it’s positioned on Mount Olympus, the highest peak in Cyprus, and an iconic destination bound to intrigue lovers of ancient mythology.

Visitors can drive up to the slopes, which feature several scenic viewpoints en route. Hidden in the valley is the picturesque village of Omodos, filled with restaurants serving traditional food such as fresh halloumi and lamb Kleftiko – the ideal conclusion to a day of mountain exploration. The village also boasts the Monastery of Timios Stavros, one of the most historically significant monasteries on the island, which offers tours.

A local fortified sweet wine, commandaria, is popular in the area and can be purchased from locals’ doorsteps for €2-€5 (£1.61-£4.23). Another must-visit is Nicosia, the divided capital of Cyprus. Following the 1974 civil war, the island was bifurcated into two states: the Greek Republic of Southern Cyprus and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, and this fascinating city remains a stark reminder of these troubled times.

The border, known as the ‘green line’, cuts through lively Nicosia, making it the only divided capital city in the world, with a rich history stretching back more than 5,000 years. Tourists may cross the border in a fairly straightforward process, at The Ledra Street Border Crossing and The Ledra Palace Border Crossing, the second of which allows for both vehicles and pedestrians.

Other attractions include underwater waterfall hikes, a turtle conservation station, Aphrodite’s Rock, the Tombs of the Kings, snorkelling adventures, Akamas Peninsula National Park, castles and even a wellness retreat.

Do you have a story to share? Email me at julia.banim@reachplc.com

READ MORE: ‘I haven’t used the sink’ since getting no-plumbing dishwasher now £50 off