Cheapest

The UK’s cheapest city break has been revealed and it’s a gorgeous destination to visit during the autumn and winter months especially if you like a good walk

City breaks have gotten expensive of late, and even a staycation in the UK can leave your bank account feeling drained. Luckily, there are still some destinations that offer value for money if you’re looking to get away for a while.

In general, staying away from the major tourist hotspots is the best way to get a city break bargain. One city in Somerset that is unlikely to be on your bucket list has topped Which?’s list of the best-value UK city breaks, with an overall score of 86%.

Wells in Somerset beat competitors from Liverpool to Lincoln to clinch four-stars for value for money, cultural sites, tourist attractions and accommodation. Best of all, it’s still possible to get a hotel room for under £100 a night, which is becoming increasingly difficult as prices rise across the UK.

Officially England’s smallest city, it manages to pack plenty of charm and attractions into a compact, walkable space. Part of the reason it was given city status in the 1970s was due to its impressive cathedral which has become an icon. Wells Cathedral has an impressive gothic style and includes The Bishop’s Palace & Gardens. You can tour this spectacular medieval palace as well as the 14-acres of gardens where you can spot wildlife including swans and deer.

The cathedral also connects to Vicars’ Close, a cobbled road that is reportedly Europe’s oldest residential street that still has its original buildings. Just wandering around Wells feels like you’ve stepped back in time, and the High Street is full of charming little independent shops that are fun to wander round.

Wells also has lots of cosy, historic pubs where you can relax after a day of exploring. The Crown dates back to the 15th century and has a warm, welcoming vibe, while The City Arms was built in 1606, and was the local jail for some time before becoming a pub and inn.

This compact city is also perfect for a weekend of walking. The National Trust site Ebbor Gorge National Nature Reserve sits on a limestone gorge and offers spectacular views across the Mendip Hills. There are three different trails you can take to explore the gorge, the longest and most difficult is 1.9 miles and involves some rocky terrain, but is worth it for the views.

Just a few minutes’ drive away are the Wookey Hole caves. You can tour these beautiful caves and even take part in activities such as climbing or taking adventure tours off the beaten paths. Wookey Hole also has a museum where you can learn about the history of the caves, and is home to Dinosaur Valley, a prehistoric-themed park with life-sized animatronic dinosaurs and fun, family-friendly trails.

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Wells has a weekly market on Wednesdays and Saturdays, and in the run up to Christmas, there are festive-themed events planned. An Artisan Christmas Market takes place at the Bishop’s Palace on November 8 and 9, then on December 6 there’s a Christmas market at the Market Place and Cathedral Green. This will host over 100 stalls, and promises festive food, gifts, and live music performances.

If you’re looking for an inexpensive staycation, consider a trip to Wells. This underrated historic city is less crowded than nearby Bath or Bristol, but still makes for a relaxing weekend away.

Europe’s cheapest city break is already a firm favourite with visitors thanks to its cheap food, drinks and attractions – so we went to see if it lives up to the hype

With prices on the rise in many European cities, as well as issues from overcrowding to anti-tourism protests in many city break hotspots, many travellers will be looking for cheaper locations for short breaks.

Search for cheap city breaks and Poland often tops the charts, and there’s one city that’s particularly popular among budget travellers; Krakow. Poland’s second city has all the elements of the perfect city break destination. Pretty cobbled streets, cheap food and drink, and plenty of historic and cultural spots to explore.

But is it the cheapest city break? I visited in September, just after the school holidays, and had a look at some of the prices during the shoulder season. With temperatures still at 26C early in the month, it seemed a great time to visit. The city was busy, but nowhere near as crowded as many destinations during this time of year, and there were still outdoor events in the town’s main square in the evening.

For a start, there are various budget-friendly flight options, with Jet2, easyJet, Ryanair and Wizz Air all offering direct routes, with a flight time of just over two hours. When I took a look, I found fares with Ryanair from £19.99 each way, although this doesn’t include a second bag if you want to take more than a small handbag or backpack with you.

I stayed at the newly-opened TRIBE hotel in Krakow. It’s about a three minute walk from St. Florian’s Gate, the entrance to the historic old town. This four-star hotel has rooms from as little as £57 a night, and was modern and comfortable. I also liked that it was next to a tram stop, so it’s easy to get around. There are cheaper options available, but if you’re on a short break it has a great location, and it’s an excellent base to explore.

Travel and days out

Krakow’s public transport is cheap, clean, and reliable, so getting around isn’t going to cost you a lot. Getting from the airport to the city centre takes under half an hour by train and costs just 13PLN (around £2.67). The city is quite compact and walkable, and there’s also the option of getting a tram. Journeys of up to 20 minutes cost around £0.50, while a 48-hour ticket, perfect for weekend breaks, is just over £7.

In the old town, you’ll find the Czartoryski Museum, one of Poland’s oldest museums and a popular tourist spot. While it costs nearly £13 to get in, it’s a huge museum and you could wander round for hours. It’s worth getting a guided tour because there’s too much to take in by yourself. You can see an original Rembrandt, as well as the museum’s most famous piece, Lady with an Ermine by Leonardo da Vinci.

The price of days out varies. There are plenty of inexpensive things to do in the city itself, or you can go further afield to visit sights such as the Wieliczka Salt Mine. This stunning underground series of mines includes chapels, sculptures, and intricately carved walls, all buried below the ground’s surface. Tickets cost from 143 PLN, nearly £30, but it’s well worth the visit.

Many visitors to the city will be looking to visit Auschwitz. There are lots of tour providers offering full day packages, which cost from £60-80. However, you can take the train and get in free without a tour guide, but it is worth booking the tour with an educator, which costs 130PLN (around £26.63), to learn more about the site’s history.

If you don’t have much time to explore Krakow, look out for the Melex tours. These electric golf carts zip around the old town, taking you to sights such as the Renaissance-era Cloth Hall and the Town Hall Tower, with short guided tours from as little as £10.

Food and drink

Most food and drink prices in Krakow are reasonable. Being in the Old Town, you’ll find things pricier, but they still compare well to other city breaks.

In the Old Town, you’ll find a wide variety of restaurants. If you want to try local dishes, you can enjoy a large plate of pierogi for less than £10. You can also grab a lunch to-go at one of the Zabka convenience stores. This Polish brand can be found on every corner, and have food like snacks and sandwiches for around £2.50. You can even get a cold beer with your lunch for less than £1.

And of course, it’s the beer prices lots of visitors will want to know about. Is the beer in Krakow cheap? Relatively, yes. A pint in the Old Town’s main square did set me back £4.50, but I was in a very touristy area. Most places I visited were more around the £3 a pint price mark, or cheaper once away from the Old Town.

So, was Krakow the cheapest city break? Some of the prices weren’t as low as I expected, but overall things like food, drink, and transport were very good value for money, especially when compared to other European breaks I’ve taken recently. If you’re a history buff or just like wandering around beautiful cities, it’s a great choice for a weekend away.

Book the holiday

Stay there: Prices at the TRIBE Krakow start from £96 per night based on two adults sharing a room. Members of ALL Accor can enjoy up to 10% off public rates as well as earning reward points which can be redeemed on stays and experiences across the world.

Get there: Ryanair offers fares from £14.99 each way to Krakow from London Luton.

Booking your holiday on a specific day could actually make your trip cheaper when compared to the rest of the week – and it’s good news for those who want short breaks

There’s a lot to think about when it comes to booking a holiday. Once you’ve chosen where you’d like to go, you have to consider what time of year you’d like to travel, how long you want to go for, and whether you want an all-inclusive resort holiday or want to get out and experience a new culture.

But what you might not have considered before is the exact day of the week you want to fly out. Most people will either pick the start of the week if they’ve taken time off from work, or will opt to travel on the weekend in order to squeeze a couple of extra days out of their trip.

According to one travel expert, however, travelling on specific days of the week could actually make your holiday cheaper or more expensive – and it’s not always a good idea to avoid the weekends.

A holiday expert named Rob, who is an insider for On The Beach, shared a TikTok video in which he looked through the On The Beach data for 2026 holidays and found that some days of the week are cheaper to travel on.

He stipulated that the data he looked at was specifically for couples’ holidays in 2026, but said that “it goes to show that picking the right date can save you a lot of money”.

Rob ran through the days of the week, starting with the most expensive day to travel – Wednesday.

Explaining why this is, he said: “It’s probably because midweek flights are packed with business travellers, so that pushes the price up, especially on short-haul flights. So that’s your baseline, and one to avoid if you can.”

Next, saving just 1% in comparison to Wednesday, is Tuesday, and the third most expensive day to travel is Saturday. Sunday is marginally cheaper as the middle day on the list, coming in at the fourth cheapest and fourth most expensive.

Speaking about Sunday, Rob said: “Sunday gives you about a 5% saving versus Wednesday. Not to be sniffed at, 5% can be a big difference. Hotels love a Sunday check-in, [as there are] quieter lobbies and fewer crowds, and often, because of this, [there are] lower rates. Plus, you skip the weekend airport chaos.”

The third cheapest day to travel is actually a Monday, as Rob said people “tend to hate the idea” of travelling on a Monday on a psychological level, as it reminds people of going to work.

Second place went to Thursday, as you miss out on the weekend rush, but coming in first place, and saving a whopping 13% compared to those travelling on Wednesday, is actually Friday.

While travelling on a Friday might seem like it would be expensive because it’s so popular, Rob said that’s actually why it’s cheap – as there are more flights and more package deals available.

He said: “There are more flights. Airlines put on more leisure routes because there’s more demand, which means prices get driven down. It’s also the day most hotels want you to check in, meaning more package deals, more discounts, and overall better value.”

Rob ended his video by stating that his data is “foolproof” and booking a holiday on a Friday won’t always work out cheaper, but it’s certainly worth a look if you’re planning a holiday for 2026.

EASYJET has revealed it will be setting up an airport base next year in one of the most popular African cities with Brits – meaning more cheap flights.

The budget airline has announced it will be growing its program from Marrakech in Morocco.

While the new routes aren’t currently from the UK, other existing routes will see more flights launched.

easyJet already flies from the UK to Marrakech from eight hubs including Birmingham, Liverpool, Manchester London Gatwick, Luton and Southend.

In November, some of these one-way flights are as little as £14.99.

The new easyJet routes are from Hamburg, Lille and Strasbourg to Marrakech and Geneva to Tangier – each route will have twice weekly journeys meaning there will be hundreds of additional flights.

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The new additional flights brings the number of easyJet to Morocco routes to 46.

Kenton Jarvis, CEO of easyJet, added that Morocco is a “key market” for the airline as it’s their “fastest growing market outside Europe“.

Earlier this year, Which? revealed Morocco to be one of the cheapest holiday destinations.

The consumer watchdog analysed the cost of 5,590 package holidays from some of the UK’s biggest tour operators, including Jet2holidays, TUI and easyJet Holidays.

Morocco was one of those places where holidaymakers can get more for their money.

Lisa Minot, Head of Sun Travel, filled us in on her recent trip to the Moroccan city. She said: “I’ve just returned from a wonderful long weekend in Marrakech and the city is as exciting as ever.

“We were sunbathing on the roof of our riad in the Medina in glorious 22 degree temperatures – and I loved the amazing desert landscapes just 40 minutes from the hustle and bustle of the souks.

“Tourism is booming in the city and while the streets are as colourful and chaotic as ever, the influx of visitors has brought some gorgeous new bars, restaurants and stunning hotels.”

Lisa also suggests visiting popular spots in the city of Marrakech like the Jemaa el-Fnaa square filled with cafes and colourful stalls.

It’s where visitors will see lots of performers from musicians to snakecharmers.

When you get hungry, make sure to visit one of the square’s many food stalls to pick up some maakouda – a traditional potato cake.

In the Kasbah district, you’ll find the Saadian Tombs. It’s a 14th-century site that was discovered in 1917 and the tombs are made from Italian Carrara marble.

For the best views, Lisa says head to Nobu Hotel’s rooftop where you can see the Atlas Mountains.

Of course you can tuck into some great food options too from quality sushi, and sip on a cocktail.

Another reason Morocco is set to be a big destination for next year is thanks to Ryanair.

The other budget airline announced that due to the axing of flights to Spain, the capacity removed from Spanish airports will be reallocated to more competitive European markets, including Morocco.

This means your holiday to Marrakech, or other Moroccan cities could become cheaper than a trip to Tenerife.

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Plus, for more of the best holiday destinations our travel team predicts will be HUGE in 2026 – thanks to cheap hotels, flights and pints.

The place is so cheap that a travel journalist was once laughed out of a nightclub because he paid the equivalent of 55p for a local tasty pie, which should have been close to free

If you’re seeking maximum value for your holiday budget and fancy somewhere completely off the beaten track, then this destination fits the bill perfectly. Asunción, Paraguay‘s capital, officially holds the title of the world’s cheapest city, yet tourists still aren’t flocking there in droves.

The place is so incredibly affordable that travel journalist Rob Crossan was once ridiculed in a nightclub after paying the equivalent of 55p for a local delicious pie, which should have cost virtually nothing.

Mr Crossan believed he’d secured a bargain with the ham and cheese empanada, roughly the size of a travel pillow, but locals in the nightclub were left in stitches, offering him their condolences for purchasing “the most expensive” one in Paraguay.

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OPINION

That incident occurred back in 2007, yet the city has maintained its budget-friendly reputation whilst remaining largely untouched by mass tourism, reports the Express.

The city took its name from the Feast of the Assumption celebrated there on August 15, 1537. Its population expanded four years later when Buenos Aires was abandoned in 1541 following an assault by the Pampa Indians, with residents fleeing to Asunción.

It subsequently served as the centre of Spanish colonial operations in eastern South America for nearly half a century before Buenos Aires was re-established. Today it boasts numerous flowering trees and several expansive parks.

Alongside the river, suburban structures remain colonial in character, whilst the city centre is contemporary with towering buildings. The cathedral, presidential palace, and the Pantheon (tomb) of Heroes, a smaller replica of the Invalides in Paris, are all must-see attractions built in the 19th century.

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Things to do

In most cities across Paraguay, parades are held to celebrate the founding of Asuncion. These events offer a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in the city’s culture, music, and traditional dress.

Historical sites such as the Palacio de los López or the Church of La Encarnación are worth visiting to learn more about the founding of Asuncion and its significance in Paraguayan history.

Don’t miss out on trying traditional Paraguayan dishes like sopa paraguaya (a cheesy cornbread) or chipa (a type of bread). Food festivals or cooking demonstrations are also great ways to discover more about the local cuisine.

Firework displays are a common sight in many Paraguayan cities as they celebrate the founding of Asuncion with spectacular shows. For the adventurous tourists, joining a traditional dance group during the festivities is an option.

Airfares to the magnificent Christmas market cathedral city of Colonge have dropped significantly over the past 12 months, according to Skyscanner’s 2026 Travel Trends report

Flights to the location of one of the world’s biggest and best-known Christmas markets have tumbled in price.

According to Skyscanner, airfares to the magnificent cathedral city of Cologne have dropped significantly over the past 12 months. The market opens to the public on November 17 and runs until December 23. Right now, there are one-way tickets available for when the market is open, from a number of different UK airports, from £14.

Chelsea Dickenson, a British bargain hunter with a knack for frugal festivities, champions Cologne’s Christmas markets as the best of them all. Not only does it boast an array of activities, but it also promises more bang for your buck compared to its British counterparts.

The savvy saver, who dishes out budget travel advice on social media, recently took to TikTok to share her insights: “If you haven’t booked a European Christmas market yet this year here’s why I think you should opt for Cologne. So last year I visited seven European Christmas markets and Cologne my absolute favourite.”

Cologne Tourism confirms the city’s festive allure, announcing: “This year the Christmas markets in Cologne opened their gates around November 18, and are welcoming visitors with delicacies such as mulled wine and waffles. You can explore the many markets in the course of a mulled-wine tour through the cathedral city.”

OPINION

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Chelsea, the savvy traveller behind Cheap Holiday Expert, has shared her enchanting experience at Cologne’s Christmas markets on her website. She gushed: “I loved Heinzels Wintermärchen Christmas Market in Cologne’s old town, spread over the Alter Markt and Heumarkt squares.

“This is a traditional market, centred around the folk legend of household spirits, the Heinzelmännchen. As well as stalls selling incredible hand-made gifts, there are food stands, live music, artist performances and an ice rink too.”

Cologne topped a Skyscanner list of the best-value holiday destinations, combining experience and affordability among those seeing the biggest year-on-year drops in flight prices.

Over the past year flights from the UK to Cologe have dropped 44%. There are a number of reasons why fares may drop to certain destination, including new routes opening up and more frequent services from low-cost carriers. For example, direct routes have resumed from London Heathrow to Ottawa.

Bryan Batista, CEO of Skyscanner, said: “Skyscanner’s 2026 Travel Trends report shows how travel is about to get more personal than ever. Whether it’s building a trip around a must-stay ‘destination hotel’, getting lost in a new favourite book on a reading retreat, incorporating a beauty routine into their travel itinerary or bringing the whole family along for the journey, travel will become more curated, grounded and unique.”

It’s worth noting that taking the train from the UK to Cologne is quick, easy and much less harmful to the environment than flying. A train journey from London to Cologne generates around 12.7 kg of CO2 per passenger, a fraction of the estimated 45 kg from a flight on the same route, according to Eurostar analysis.

IN the middle of London is a new hotel that claims to be the largest of it’s kind in the world – and rooms are the cheapest in the capital.

Zedwell is one of the city’s newest hotels to open, right in the middle of Piccadilly Circus.

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Being so central, you can normally expect hotels to have high prices – the nearby Ritz and the W Hotel can command nightly rates of £500 or more.

Not Zedwell – the new hotel claims to be the world’s biggest capsule hotel, and with that, comes the small price of just £30 a night.

That definitely makes it the cheapest hotel room in the city (unless you want to bunk up in an 18-bed dorm).

Having opened last month, it sits directly above Piccadilly Circus Underground Station, so tourists would walk by without knowing this ultra trendy hotel was there. 

With the door currently hidden under scaffolding, I almost missed it too. 

But what is it really like to stay there?

Inside, decked out with a modern concrete and timber design, there are nearly 1,000 individual sleep capsules over five floors. 

Guests use an iPad to self-check in, before being directed to one of the correct floor and room.

Each dorm needs a key card to access, too, so you can only enter the dorm you are assigned, which definitely makes it feel secure. 

It’s a twist on the traditional ‘dorm style’ hostel set up as each guest gets privacy and security of being tucked up in your capsule, with the ability to lock it from the inside. 

Choosing a female-only room (there are also male-only and mixed), each of the square pods were stacked with a top and bottom pod.

On first glance, the dorm rooms, which are minimalist and dimly-lit looked a bit like a car park or a storage locker.

It’s nothing like you’d expect a hotel room to look, so it takes some getting used to.

I wasn’t sure how much I wanted to sleep in a multi-story car park.

However, inside, I was surprised to find a cute little space, with mood lighting and welcoming interiors.

Each capsule is made from oak and come with a single Hypnos mattress, Egyptian cotton bedding, individual mini aircon or heat, smart climate control, noise reduction, and ambient lighting.

There is also a plug socket inside, two USB plugs and a mirror. 

However, being a private pod ‘room’ means there isn’t much storage space – there are no room for suitcases inside.

I felt like a Sylvanian Family creature shutting themselves in my room

You have to leave them outside your capsule, so be sure to put your valuables in the pod when you lock it or take them with you.

If you want to leave your case at the hotel after you checkout, the hotel charges £15 to store them securely with them.

Make sure to bring your own padlock too, so you can lock your pod if you plan on going out (although reception let you buy them on-site as well).

There are clean common areas too, which felt more adult then teen-backpacker, which includes a lounge and co-working space.

I was impressed with how clean the communal bathroom and toilet area as well, with light jazz music playing overhead.

But the big question – how did I sleep?

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More used to a double bed than being boxed in by four walls, pulling the door down behind me feeling a little bit like a Sylvanian Family creature shutting themselves in a mini garage. 

Surprisingly, it didn’t feel as claustrophobic as I thought it would – as a 5″5 woman, I was able to sit up and easily stretch my legs.

Even more surprisingly, I had a great night sleep, with no rowdy drunken people or loud talkers disturbing the peace.

I did get woken up once by someone opening up their dorm door at 4am.

With each pod door made from plastic and metal, it means they don’t open and close too quietly.

Aside from that, I couldn’t fault my stay. In fact, it was so quiet and dark, I actually slept in an hour later than I usually wake up. 

The hotel itself felt very safe too, with a security guard on the door and someone in reception 24-hours a day, as well as CCTV on each floor.

And even outside, the central location means everything you need is on your doorstep, from the London’s West End to Chinatown.

It’s great for friendship groups or solo travellers or if you have a big night out in Soho planned and don’t want to get the tube home. 

Halima Aziz, Head of Hotels at Criterion Hospitality said, “We are taking the capsule hotel concept to the next level, one that combines an exceptional location with a focus on simplicity, thoughtful design that balances accessibility with privacy and quality rest, right in the centre of the city.”

I hope the capsule concept takes off in London.

The city is crying out for affordable places to stay and for £30? It can’t be beaten.

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A study found the cheapest city in the world for a beer – and unsurprisingly it’s not the UK. According to experts at Magnet Kitchens, it’s somewhere in Europe

Beer enthusiasts, rejoice! A study has revealed the location of the cheapest pint on the planet.

Unfortunately for Brits, the most affordable city in the UK for a brew was Nottingham, coming in at 99th place – where a pint could cost you a reasonable £1.63. But across the Channel, it’s a whole different ball game.

Italy, Germany and Spain were identified as having the lowest prices for a bottle of beer, according to the boffins at Magnet Kitchens. The study examined 190 cities using crowdsourced data from Numbeo on the price of a bottle of beer in cities worldwide in 2024.

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The top 10 was dominated by Germany, with Wandsbek in the north of the country being the tenth best-value – with a bottle costing party-goers a remarkably low 74p. Nuremberg, Bielefeld and Bremen were tied at a penny less, while Zaragoza, in the northeast of Spain and known as the ‘city of beer’, offered an enticing 72p pint, reports the Express.

Four more German cities came in joint-second, with 71p bottles in Wuppertal, Bochum, Bochum-Hordel and Dresden. However, it was a seaside city in the south of Italy that took the top spot – where drinkers can enjoy a beer for as little as 65p.

According to Numbeo, beer in Taranto is a staggering 11.5 times cheaper than the world’s priciest – found in Darwin, Australia (£7.48). It was the only Italian city to make the top 10, while the next highest-ranking Italian town was Messina, a port city in the northeast of Sicily, which came in 51st.

OPINION

Taranto also secured a spot in the top 10 for the world’s cheapest bottle of wine, ranking seventh with a price tag of just £3.87 – outdone only by Rome, where you can nab a bottle for a mere £2.80.

An impressive 20 German cities made it into the top 50 for beer, while eight locations in the country also featured in the top 30 for wine lovers – including Bochum, where a bottle will cost you a modest £4.29.

Zaragoza turned out to be more than twice as cheap as the priciest Spanish city, Cordoba, which charges £1.57 for a bottle of beer.

In total, 18 Spanish cities made the cut in the top 50, with Las Palmas on the island of Gran Canaria coming in second at 77p – narrowly missing out on a spot in the global top 10.

TEN of the cheapest new cars on sale right now in the UK have been revealed.

Experts have also outlined their thoughts on the selection of new vehicles.

Top Gear gave advise on the list of the ten cheapest cars currently on sale, which includes a bizarre “micro car”.

1. Citroen Ami – £7,695

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At the top of the list is the Citroen Ami that is being sold for “the price of a well-used BMW 3 Series”.

It appears to have the “bones” of a quadricycle with a very boxy shape.

This Citroen comes with an 8bhp electric motor, and 5.5kWh.

Top Gear analysts said it was “fun to use and an entirely loveable object” which can reach top speeds of 28mph.

2. Leapmotor T03 – £14,495

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This is a small Chinese electric car that appears well built.

And its price of £14,495 includes a Leapmotor grant of £1,500.

Even though it is small, the interior is still quite roomy and reasonably comfortable.

“The Dacia Spring has already shown that cheap cars like this can have character, something the T03 severely lacks,” reviewed Top Gear.

3. Dacia Sandero – £14,715

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When it first came into the UK, the Dacia Sandero actually cost just £8,000.

However, it is still the cheapest “proper” petrol-powered car that can be bought in the country at the moment.

The vehicle has been described as “simple”, “spacious”, and one that “absolutely nails the brief” for allowing passengers to get from one place to another.

Top Gear’s verdict on the Dacia Sandero was: “If you don’t in the least bit care about cars, this is probably what you should buy.”

4. Dacia Spring – £14,995

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This car is small, electric and cheap for new cars generally.

It has also been considered “simple” but “fun” like its bigger sibling.

Top Gear stated: “It proves to everyone else it is possible for a BEV to weigh largely the same as its petrol equivalent.

“Well done Dacia.”

5. Kia Picanto – £16,695

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The latest Picanto from Kia is aligned with the maker’s belief in The Small Car,

While looking great, it has a fun motor that offers enough practicality for urban life.

“For a first car or something that’s just needed as a runabout, you can’t go at all wrong with the Picanto,” said Top Gear.

6. Toyota Aygo X – £16,845

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This is a 1.0L, three-cylinder-engined car ideal for the city.

It also has a 71bhp that comes through the front wheels for an exciting 0-62 mph in 14.9 seconds.

For the city, this is surely sufficient because it is unlikely you will going faster than 5mph much.

Top Gear’s verdict on the Aygo X was: “It rides and steers impressively well, although the little three-cylinder engine can feel a little gutless.”

7. Microlino – £16,990

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The Microlino is said to be “becoming the cutest, most adorable thing on the road at any given point”.

It is a “micro” car though so doesn’t leave any room for passengers.

Basically a life-sized, portable, electric Playmobil toy.

“As a car it’s flawed,” admits Top Gear.

“Think of it more as a pet.

“Not brilliantly house-trained, but somehow kinda loveable.”

8. Hyundai i10 – £17,100

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This Hyundai is thought to be the most sophisticated version of the humble i10 yet.

It offers fairly impressive levels of technology and tools, with some decent space inside.

A good overall small car, especially for the price.

“Well done Hyundai for having come up with a fresh city car when lots of other car-makers have canned theirs,” said Top Gear.

9. MG 3: £17,245

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The third generation of the Chinese car maker is small, but not a bad drive.

It’s simple, with a more refined interior to make a good all-rounder.

There is still room for improvement in the ride as Top Gear suggests: “If you can ignore the badge snobbery, you could do a lot worse.”

10. Fiat Grande Panda (hybrid) – £18,035

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This vehicle marks a return for Fiat in making motors that are cheap but fun and full of character.

Top Gear writes: “It has a cheery countenance and knowing sense of heritage.

“We approve.”

Dubbed the ‘Camino of the East’, the 1,400 km long-distance walking trail, Via Transilvanica, is helping position Romania as Europe’s next great walking destination

One of the cheapest countries in Europe has been tipped as the next go-to destination for walkers.

Following Romania’s recent inclusion in the Schengen area, travel interest in the eastern European nation has spiked. There is plenty going for it. Romania enjoys warm weather in the summer; its countryside is verdant and vast; and it’s cheaper compared to its neighbours.

This week, one particular part of the country has featured on Intrepid Travel’s Not Hot List, which highlights ten parts of the world where few people currently visit.

Via Transilvanica is Romania’s entry this year. Dubbed the ‘Camino of the East’, the 1,400 km long-distance walking trail, Via Transilvanica, is helping position the country as Europe’s next great walking destination.

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Initiated by Intrepid Foundation partner Tășuleasa Social Association, and known as ‘the road that unites’, its route is intentionally designed to connect travellers to lesser‑known communities and share the economic benefits of tourism more widely.

The trail takes travellers through villages, ancient forests, and 12 UNESCO World Heritage sites. With visitor numbers rising, now is the perfect time for the nation to consider its approach to sustainable tourism.

Romania welcomed 7.1 million overnight international visitors in 2024. The addition of 170 km of new paths opening in 2026 marks the first phase of a larger 20-year expansion plan to grow the Via Transilvanica trail beyond its original footprint, broadening its reach across Romania.

Smoother travel times, thanks to Romania’s 2025 Schengen debut that scrapped border checks with its European neighbours, and new flight routes from Birmingham to Sibiu have opened the door to a new era of travel for the region.

Anna Székely, vice-president of the Tășuleasa Social Association, said: “This slow-travel route isn’t just scenic, it’s built to revive depopulated villages, support local enterprise and give visitors a rare chance to experience traditions that feel untouched by time.

“For us, hospitality means creating genuine meeting points between hikers and locals – places where shared meals, old stories and the rhythm of rural life are as much a part of the journey as the miles walked.” Intrepid’s new 11-day Hiking in Romania via Transilvanica Trail trip gives travellers early access to some of the newly added sections of the trail.

“Hike to spiritual sites such as the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Sucevita and Moldovita monasteries and explore Bran Castle, linked to the Dracula legend. Enjoy the occasional homemade dinner and local wine with residents living in small villages along the trail and learn about each community’s culture.”

Intrepid’s 2026 Not Hot List features:

• Tiwai Island, Sierra Leone
• Tien Shan Mountain Range, Kyrgyzstan
• Sierra Norte, Mexico
• Vis Island, Croatia
• Gaziantep, Türkiye
• Arunachal Pradesh, India
• Via Transilvanica, Romania
• Ruta de las Flores, El Salvador
• Oulu, Finland
• Great Basin National Park, Nevada, US

A LITTLE-known resort with white sands, a Unesco-listed old town and beer for less than £2 tops a new listing of most affordable autumn beach breaks in Europe this year.

Nessebar, on a peninsula in Bulgaria, is No1 in budget airline easyJet’s Cheap Beach Index, thanks to its affordable hospitality and dependable deals on flights and hotels.

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The research analysed areas within easy reach of airports that offer affordable direct routes from the UK, and the costs of a typical holiday “basket” of essentials including beer, ice cream and family meals out.

The Budva Riviera in Montenegro came second, followed by Spain’s Costa de Almeria then Costa Dorada.

Next came Croatian towns Nin and Medulin.

Lisa Minot describes what makes these autumn breaks winners, and offers some great deals . . . 

NESSEBAR, BULGARIA

THIS little gem offers the best of both worlds with golden sands on South Beach and plenty of charm in the Old Town with its Roman and Ottoman architecture, 19th-century wooden houses and cobbled streets.

It’s not all culture, though – the resort has plenty to keep visitors happy with lots of bars and restaurants and a lively nightlife.

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The report found beers would cost on average £1.60, while a three-course meal will set you back around £22 for a couple.

GO: Seven nights’ all-inclusive at the 4H Festa Panorama, Nessebar is from £477pp including flights from Manchester departing on September 30, 23kg luggage and transfers.

See easyjet.com/en/holidays.

BUDVA RIVIERA, MONTENEGRO

LOCATED on Montenegro’s gorgeous Adriatic Coast, the Budva Riviera has more than 35km of stunning coastline.

There are several beaches, from the lively, expansive Jaz and Slovenska Plaza to the picturesque coves of Mogren.

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At its heart is the charming medieval Old Town (Stari Grad) with its Venetian walls and historic churches.

The index found beers will set you back just £1.90, a meal for two is £30 and ice creams a bargain £1.50.

GO: Seven nights’ B&B at the 4H Eurostars Queen of Montenegro is from £452pp, from Gatwick on September 30, 23kg luggage and transfers.

See easyjet.com/en/holidays.

COSTA DE ALMERIA, SPAIN

FOR a more authentic Spanish experience, distinct from the more crowded Costas, the Costa de Almeria is Europe’s only desert landscape, providing a dramatic backdrop.

Highlight is the Cabo de Gata-Nijar Natural Park, a protected area with volcanic geology, hidden coves like Monsul and vast, unspoiled beaches for you to set aside the pressures of life.

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Roquetas de Mar is a perfect beachfront town with lots of shops, bars and restaurants close by.

The report found beers will cost just £3 and a meal for two £36.

GO: Seven nights’ half-board at the Best Roquetas Hotel, Costa de Almeria is from £372pp including flights from Southend on September 27, 23kg luggage and transfers.

See easyjet.com/en/holidays.

COSTA DORADA, SPAIN

ALWAYS among the best value of the Costas, this area is known as the Golden Coast – perfect for families with its long, gently shelving golden sand beaches.

Salou has a buzzing nightlife scene and direct access to the ever popular PortAventura World theme park.

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Head to Cambrils for great seafood restaurants while Tarragona has a magnificent Roman amphitheatre overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.

The index found beers would cost £2.55 and a meal for a couple around £36.

GO: Seven nights’ R/O at the 3H Hotel Eurosalou is from £306pp including easyJet flights from Southend on September 30, 23kg luggage and transfers.

See travelsupermarket.com.

MEDULIN, CROATIA

THIS family-friendly resort on Croatia’s Istrian Coast stands out with its kilometre-long sandy Bijeca beach with shallow waters.

The sheltered bay is also ideal for watersports such as paddle boarding.

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For nature lovers, the rugged Cape Kamenjak reserve has stunning cliffs, secluded coves and walking trails.

The nearby city of Pula with its historic Roman remains, is a short bus ride away.

The report found beers would cost around £3.10 and a meal for two £40.

GO: Seven nights’ B&B at the 4H Park Plaza Belvedere Medulin is from £580pp including easyJet flights from Luton, 23kg luggage and transfers.

See love holidays.com.

NIN, CROATIA

THE ancient Croatian town is on an islet within a lagoon on the eastern shore of the Adriatic Sea.

Known as the birthplace of Croatian kings, its historic centre is linked to the mainland by two 16th-century stone bridges.

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Nin is famous for beautiful sandy lagoons, among them Queen’s Beach, a 3km stretch of sand in a shallow, warm bay.

Nearby, you can experience the tradition of applying therapeutic mud, renowned for its healing properties.

The index found beers were £3.20 and a meal for two £40.

GO: Seven nights’ self-catering in an apartment is from £473 in total, based on four sharing, from Sep 23 – novasol.co.uk.

Fly EasyJet from Gatwick to Zadar from £136pp return.

See easyjet.com.

One ancient town dubbed ‘the Pearl of the Black Sea’ has beautiful cobblestone streets, and affordable food and drinks

An ancient Bulgarian town has been crowned the cheapest beach destination for Brits – boasting white sandy beaches, UNESCO listing and pints costing less than £2.

Nessebar, on a small peninsula in Bulgaria, has been named the best-value beach in the new easyJet ‘Cheap Beach Index’ thanks to its dependable ‘shoulder-season’ deals on flights and hotels and affordable hospitality.

Dubbed the “Pearl of the Black Sea”, Nessebar blends together rich history, culture and seaside charm. It delights visitors each year with its charming cobblestone streets in its UNESCO-listed old town and a famous seafood scene.

Nipping at its heels is the Budva Riviera in Montenegro, which boasts a range of idyllic beaches along a 35 kilometre stretch of the Adriatic coast in western Montenegro.

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Cruising into third place is the Costa de Almería in Spain that’s known for Europe’s only desert Tabernas Desert and its golden beaches.

Further down the table, value keeps rolling in destinations like Zadar and Nin in Croatia, Costa Blanca and Costa del Sol in Spain and Halkidiki in Greece.

These sun-soaked destinations pair clear seas with competitive apartment and hotel prices, meaning a seven-night stay rarely breaks the bank.

Kevin Doyle, easyJet’s UK Country Manager, said: “With summer behind us, there’s plenty of opportunities to still find great weather in early autumn across Europe.

“With thousands of flights across hundreds of routes from the UK throughout September, it means great value beach breaks are still available across Europe.

“Our unrivalled network of flights across the continent provides direct links from many UK airports to a whole host of great value, sun-friendly beach breaks on a budget.

“Our Cheap Beach Index offers a great variety of value choices for passengers looking for one last dose of summer sun and fun.”

The top 20 table was compiled by analysing areas within easy reach of airports that offer affordable direct routes to the UK. Each destination is priced on the basis of a typical holiday ‘basket’ that includes criteria such as the price of beer, an ice cream and a family meal out.

The index comes ahead of the start of ‘shoulder season’, from mid-September through to October. With many European destinations still offering warm conditions and airline schedules still operating at near-peak summer levels, the ‘shoulder’ is proving a popular option for many who aren’t ready to see the summer go.

For more information, please visit easyJet – Book Cheap Flights and Holidays

YouTuber The Wandering Turnip paid a visit to Horden, which is located in County Durham, to explore the seaside town and investigate why so many of its properties have been left to fall into disrepair

A man has racked up almost 1.5million views online after taking a trip to a seaside town to visit the streets where houses are some of the cheapest you can buy in the UK.

‘The Wandering Turnip’ travelled to Horden, located in Country Durham, which is an ex-mining town by the sea. When the colliery shut in 1987, work dried up for a huge number of residents, and as a result, many moved away from the area, paving the way for derelict and run-down houses.

In a 27-minute video, the YouTuber walks up and down the ‘numbered streets’ which feature boarded up houses, smashed windows, and rubbish both in the properties and in the back yards.

Some are available to buy at auction, with prices starting from as little as £5,000 and usually selling for around £20,000. However, as he discovers, potential buyers are often told they can’t view the properties first.

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There has been some effort to improve the look of the boarded up homes; many feature fake front doors, complete with fake doorhandles, and fake lace curtains to give the impression the building is occupied. But the truth is many are abandoned.

During his visit to Horden, The Wandering Turnip arranged viewings for two properties, the first of which is on the market for £39,950, and the second for £15,000 at auction. Both have fallen into disrepair and have experienced some vandalism, with glass all over the floors, radiators pulled from the walls, exposed wires and the floorboards in a bad way.

Over the course of his visit to Horden, the content creator estimated he’d seen around 70 abandoned, boarded-up properties – many of which are in the numbered streets in the central area of town; he notes Seventh Street looks completely derelict.

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But it’s by no means a wholly negative visit. The locals are incredibly warm and friendly and The Wandering Turnip focuses on the town’s rich mining history – a vocation shared by his own ancestors.

Writing on Youtube, he said of the visit: “I was really interested to figure out why they were so cheap and to take a look at the area. Horden is an ex mining town, and when the colliery shut down in 1987, all the work and the reason for people being there disappeared. You can imagine how busy this place would have been when that mine was open. It operated from 1900 – 1987.

“There were entire streets that were boarded up and I managed to get a look in 2 different properties which were on sale at the time of visiting.

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“It seems that the town suffers from a severe vandalism problem, making it hard for properties to be done up, leaving the towns looking like they do. The answer, a lovely chap showing me round one house told me, is that it has to be local landlords or people who can respond quickly. When these houses end up in the hands of outside investors, without a care for the area, they quickly fall into this cycle of damage, try to sell, repeat and repeat.”

He continued: “The people up here are absolutely great, such a friendly welcoming town where everyone was up for a chat. It is a real shame to see so many streets boarded up especially in a town so close to the sea, which I go look at in the end.”

The Mirror has reached out to County Durham Council for comment on the video.

Over on Trip Advisor, previous visitors to Horden have shared their thoughts, with the Horden Welfare Park given special recognition.

“Horden Welfare Park is situated in the middle of Horden and is always kept neat and tidy with lovely flower beds and lawned areas with plenty of seats to just sit and relax and take in the experience,” one person wrote.

“It houses a Victorian style bandstand where they hold entertainment throughout the year. There is also a vintage tearoom where you can have afternoon tea in real china cups and then visit the heritage museum housed upstairs.

“Lastly it houses the Statue named Marra who is a miner with his heart torn out depicting the effect that mines closing had on the local community. All in all well worth a visit in my opinion.”

Another said: “A lovely park with lots of history to go with.

Plenty of plaques to read from history to present day which is very interesting to read, as well as a sad miner statue with his heart missing, probably because of the pit closures. My dad and grandad were both Horden miners so I can relate to it. Brilliant overall.”

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One resident of the coastal village said the demolition plans amount to ‘social cleansing’ as the regeneration project gathers pace

Plans to demolish historic homes in the UK’s most affordable seaside village have been labelled as ‘social cleansing’ as a local authority pushes forward with its proposals.

Durham County Council has submitted a planning application to tear down 100 properties in Horden’s ‘Numbered Streets’, an area that was established in the early 1900s and originally provided housing for the coal mining community.

Horden, along with neighbouring Peterlee, was recently named as the UK’s cheapest place to live by the sea in a ranking by Rightmove. It has also frequently ranked among the nation’s most deprived areas.

The proposed demolition zone stretches from First Street to 13th Street and is part of a £10.7 million regeneration project that it is hoped will breathe new life into the area. Homeowners have been asked to sell their properties to the council so new housing can be built.

However, local residents are resisting the plans, which they claim to have largely opposed since a consultation was first launched in 2019, according to the Express, reports Chronicle Live.

Joe, a community organiser for Shelter, said it was “immediately obvious it wasn’t what people wanted” when he first arrived in the area, adding that there was palpable anger at a parish council meeting.

Campaign group Fair Deal For Horden found that 72 percent of the community preferred refurbishment, with only 2pc supporting demolition.

Joe added: “The council says there’s widespread support. I beg to differ.”

Shelter’s research shows that buying and renovating empty properties for social rent can require roughly 20pc less grant funding than new builds, when clearance and compensation costs are taken into account.

Raymond Bellingham has lived with his sister in a mortgage-free home on Third Street since he was nine years old. This year marks his 60th anniversary at the address.

He opposes the plans, saying locals want restoration to breathe new life into the area rather than bulldozing people’s homes. A similar scheme was implemented in The Green in Hartlepool, restoring crumbling Victorian houses rather than knocking them down.

Raymond said: “There was originally talk of other plans – renovation, refurbishment, etc. But all of a sudden, all other options disappeared, and the council has gone down the path of total demolition. They’re totally ignoring the people living here, refusing to do another consultation.”

He insisted the streets’ terrible reputation is baseless, “a misrepresentation”, saying people view it as “gang-laden – people carrying machetes with dangerous dogs” – but this “couldn’t be further from the truth”.

Joe pointed out the irony that this year marks the 125th anniversary of Horden as a village: “What better way to celebrate than by wiping out the historic homes of the people who built that community, the people who contributed to British industrial progress?”. Raymond said “there’s not much to celebrate”, declaring: “The council wants to wipe out this community, to build new houses and obliterate heritage and history.

“It’s affecting people who still live here. They want to clear the area, trying to buy homes for £30,000-£35,000, way below market price. That’s what actually makes the area undesirable. Exactly what they’re supposed to be avoiding.

“It might sound drastic, but it’s a form of social cleansing. Good people live here, and they’re being driven out of their own homes, their village, their community. They don’t care about the people here; they have no sentiment for this community.”

Joe revealed that Horden features amongst the nation’s most deprived areas, explaining: “Locals do need something to happen. It does need regeneration, but what cost does that come at?”.

“This plan shouldn’t come at the cost of people’s lives being torn apart. If the council went the refurb route, it could do more for the Numbered Streets.”

Although a relocation package is available for residents selling their properties to the council, Joe insists “many feel they’ll be financially worse off”.

Leaving Horden would prove expensive, he said, alongside the heartbreaking impact of breaking community bonds and family ties.

Joe contended this simply “perpetuates a cycle of instability for lots of people”.

Durham County Council claimed the Horden Masterplan had attracted “strong support” throughout several years of comprehensive consultation. Michael Kelleher, the head of planning and housing, stated: “We have worked hard throughout the process to ensure residents feel heard and represented.

“Following our consultations in 2018, 2019 and 2022, the demolition, clearance and provision of new housing was consistently ranked higher than refurbishment by residents.

“The aim of the masterplan is to regenerate the village and improve life for local people by tackling issues such as the high number of empty properties in the Numbered Streets, supporting those with housing needs, enhancing community facilities and paving the way for new council housing that is truly affordable. All while respecting the history and heritage of Horden.

“We understand this is an unsettling time, and we are working closely with owners and landlords to negotiate the purchase of their properties and help people to find alternative accommodation should they need it.”

THERE are loads of ways for Brits to use apps to slash bills this summer.

You can easily find the cheapest prices for food, petrol, flights and parking. If you use them regularly, you could easily save hundreds a year.

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CHEAPER PETROL

One great option for drivers is the PetrolPrices.

The name is the giveaway here. This app is designed to help you find the cheapest petrol prices in the area.

You can see the locations on a map, or find them as a list sorted by lowest price, distance, and even brands.

Site owners can upload their own prices, and users can report the fuel costs too.

It means you don’t have to drive around looking for the cheap prices – or face a price shock at the pump.

Another handy tip is using the Google Maps fuel efficiency feature.

Turn it on by going into Google Maps > Profile > Settings > Navigation > Route Options > Prefer Fuel-Efficient Routes.

“Google Maps can estimate fuel or energy efficiency for different vehicle types, including electric and combustion engine cars, as well as petrol motorcycles,” Google explained.

“The more fuel or energy efficient the route, the lower your vehicle’s fuel or energy usage.”

You should also tell Google your engine type in Google Maps > Profile > Settings > Your Vehicle.

That can give you even better fuel-efficiency.

“The most fuel or energy-efficient route can be different based on the engine type,” Google said.

“For example, diesel vehicles’ relative fuel economy advantage is generally greatest in motorway driving.

“Hybrid and electric vehicles tend to provide greater efficiency in stop-start town and hill driving where they can benefit from regenerative braking.”

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FOOD PRICES

For food savings, you’ll want to first take a look at Trolley.

It lets you compare prices for groceries across supermarkets, with a long list of stores including:

• Asda
• Sainsburys
• Aldi
• Home Bargains
• Morrisons
• Tesco
• Boots
• Wilko
• Coop
• Waitrose
• Superdrug
• B&M
• Ocado
• Iceland
• Savers
• Poundland

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The app says it’ll save you up to 30% on a weekly shop, but your own success will vary depending on what you buy and how much you spend.

Another option – recently tested by The Sun’s tech desk – is to use the Google Gemini chatbot.

You can use it to plan your food shop by asking the bot to find the cheapest prices.

It’s also worth noting that you can bag cheap or free food by picking up leftovers or stuff that would be otherwise thrown away.

Two apps – Olio and Too Good To Go – are packed with food bargains.

And if you want free food, Sky customers can bag a weekly treat from the Sainsbury’s Taste the Difference range through the MySky app.

Just go to the Sky VIP panel (which is free to join) to claim your freebie.

We’ve seen ice lollies and pizzas so far, but there’s a new option every week.

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FLIGHT COMPARISONS

There’s no denying that Skyscanner is a brilliant option for finding cheap flights.

But you should also take a look at Google Flights, which has some clever tricks.

For a start, when you’re searching for flights, it can show you the cheapest window to book.

“For example, these insights could tell you that the cheapest time to book similar trips is usually two months before departure, and you’re currently in that sweet spot,” Google said.

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“Or you might learn that prices have usually dropped closer to takeoff, so you decide to wait before booking. Either way, you can make that decision with a greater sense of confidence.”

You can also turn on price tracking for specific dates (like if you’re off to a wedding) or for any dates (if you just want a holiday at some point soon).

This feature will only appear if you’re signed in to your Google account.

And right now, Google Flights is getting an upgrade with the Flights Deal feature.

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It’s currently only in the US, Canada, and India – but it looks likely to land in the UK eventually too.

The feature works using AI with Google saying it’s “for flexible travellers whose number one goal is saving money“.

“Instead of playing with different dates, destinations and filters to uncover the best deals, you can just describe when, where and how you’d like to travel — as though you’re talking to a friend — and Flight Deals will take care of the rest,” Google said.

For example, you could search for a “week-long trip this winter to a city with great food, nonstop only”, Google revealed.

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Then it’ll use Google Fights data to show you the latest options from loads of airlines.

CHEAP PARKING

Lastly, make sure you’re not overpaying on parking.

There’s a great app called JustPark, which you might be familiar with as a way to pay at some car parks.

But it also lets people rent out their driveways, which means you can bag some great bargains.

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We tried it out earlier this year and found £6 for all-day parking in London on a weekday.

You can book them far in advance, and even add on insurance that covers the excess if your car ends up getting damaged.

You can easily check and amend (or cancel) your driveway parking through the app from anywhere. So you could add extra time if you’re running late.

And it’s potentially a great way to bag a bargain for sports fixtures by getting near-stadium parking.

You could also turn it into a side-hustle by renting out your own parking space.

So you wouldn’t just be saving money, but making some quick cash too.

This town in East Ayrshire, Scotland, has been named one of the most affordable places to live in the UK, with locals praising its vibrant shopping scene and friendly atmosphere

An historic town in East Ayrshire has been crowned one of the UK’s most affordable places to live, with locals praising its bustling shopping scene and welcoming atmosphere. Property website Rightmove has ranked Kilmarnock as Scotland’s top spot for first-time buyers, offering average house prices significantly below the national average.

Rightmove reports that homes in Kilmarnock have sold for an average of £154,688 over the past year. Flats have been snapped up for an average of £75,868, while semi-detached properties have commanded £161,391 and terraced houses £115,793.

Prices have risen by seven per cent compared to 2024 and are four per cent higher than the 2022 peak. This news comes after images show the cheapest seaside spot in England is full of abandoned £40k homes ‘nobody wants’.

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Home to over 47,000 people, Kilmarnock’s housing costs are more than five times lower than London, where the average flat will set you back a whopping £590,543. The town’s blend of cultural heritage, green spaces and retail options has made it a popular choice for homebuyers.

Kilmarnock is home to a wealth of cultural landmarks, including Scotland’s largest Burns Monument, the Dick Institute and the Palace Theatre. The town centre boasts a range of independent shops as well as popular high street brands, reports the Daily Record.

The tourism board Visit Scotland has described Bank Street as: “a charming cobbled street in the historic core, with the elegant John Finnie Street boasting one of the best examples of provincial Victorian architecture in Scotland.”

The board also spotlighted Dean Castle and Country Park as “a fantastic day out for all the family” and commended the Burns Monument Centre’s picturesque location in Kay Park.

For many locals, the town’s charm and easy access are its main attractions. Andrew Reith, 41, who runs Zenith Coins and has been working in Kilmarnock for five years, said: “The town has some nice parks, and there are a few spots for public entertainment. The shopping area is quite popular, and both tourists and locals enjoy wandering around it.

“What I feel is that the town could benefit from a couple of large organisations, such as factories, to create more job opportunities for people living in the area.” However, not everyone shares this positive view. One local told The Express: “Many people in Kilmarnock rely on Government benefits and lack ambition and zeal to work.

“Most people are looking to send their children to the schools in Troon which is around 15 to 20 minutes away from Kilmarnock and is home to some of the most affluent people in the town.” While some streets offer homes priced between £75,000 and £84,000, others feature properties worth £500,000.

Tracey Oakley, a property adviser with Donald Ross Residential, noted: “Kilmarnock is a huge area and it would not be right to say that the houses are cheap [everywhere] here. The town is not very far from Glasgow and has a lovely shopping centre. “The properties which are put on the market are being sold in just two to six weeks, showing its popularity among the buyers.”

East Ayrshire Council says the town’s energy is being enhanced by regeneration initiatives. David McDowall, head of economic growth, said: “We are happy to see Kilmarnock is featuring as one of the more economical places to live.

“Over the past 15 years, our Regeneration and Business Support teams have attracted investment to enable the redevelopment of the town centre…breathing new life into the town’s conservation area.”

He added that Kilmarnock has “weathered the storm of closures of the mass industries such as whisky bottling, shoe making, carpet making, textiles and heavy engineering” and is now “experiencing a resurgence” with new small and medium enterprises.

One village and its neighbouring town were named as the cheapest seaside destination in England by Rightmove, with two-bedroom terraced houses available for as little as £5K

Residents of a seaside village claim their seaside community is suffering as family homes lie empty and dozens more are set to be demolished.

Rightmove named Horden and neighbouring Peterlee the cheapest seaside destinations in England, with two-bedroom terraced houses available for as little as £5K. According to the website, the average asking price in Peterlee and Horden is just over £122K, less than half the average national house price.

Even though demand for seaside properties has increased by eight per cent compared to last year, locals say no one wants to live in the area, which struggles from a lack of investment, drug gangs and anti-social behaviour plaguing the small coastal community. It comes after reports of a small fishing village with some of the UK’s best seafood but hardly any tourists.

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“It’s the armpit of England”, one resident said on a local Facebook group post about Horden. Locals previously raised concerns over criminals who have been using the houses in Horden to grow and deal drugs, reports the Express.

One man was jailed for over three years in April after he was found hiding in a cannabis farm at a disused shop in Blackhills Road. Two years ago, feuding rival gang members clashed in Horden’s Fifth Street, where a stolen Transit van smashed into shop fronts and shots were fired before a high-speed chase through the village. Seven men were jailed for a combined 94 years after pleading guilty at Newcastle Crown Court.

Residents have voiced their concerns, claiming that Durham County Council is ignoring their housing issues. The council reportedly wants to buy and demolish homes on the Numbered Streets in Horden to make way for new builds, despite some locals having resided there all their lives.

The Numbered Streets, a well-known part of the village encompassing First Street through to 13th Street, were initially constructed in the early 1900s to accommodate the large community of coal mining families in the vicinity. Numerous family-friendly properties now stand vacant, with current listings priced significantly below £40K.

Local campaigner and published author Pip Fallow expressed his views: “Most of Europe has a shortage of houses. We’ve actually got the opposite, as no one is living there, it’s boarded up.” He remains sceptical that new housing developments will benefit Peterlee and its neighbouring villages.

“The proof’s in the pudding, there are houses there already and no one wants to live in them. There’s nothing to offer. You need to bring in new industry,” he further commented.

Another local, Liz MacPhee, described Horden as “quite a run-down area, lots of lovely houses, just boarded up” but since moving to the village, she’s found herself part of “a really strong community”. She relocated from the South of France in search of an affordable coastal home.

However, she alleges that her friends are now in danger of being evicted by the council, which is only offering them the average auction value for their properties. “We’re prepared to fight… all [the council] want is shiny new houses,” she added.

Durham County Council insists that the development, along with additional projects in the area around Peterlee, will enhance walking and cycling routes to Peterlee centre, its train station and the Durham Heritage Coast. Yet, residents argue that the council should be focusing on refurbishing the existing homes instead.

“The council isn’t listening to us,” Liz stated. “We want them refurbed as they are absolutely beautiful houses. “The council and the Government treated the miners really badly,” she added. “And now they’re coming back a second time to get their offspring.”

Horden and its surrounding areas have seen several new developments over the past few years, including a £10.55M train line between Newcastle and Middlesbrough that opened in June 2020. In July, it was announced that Believe Housing had proposed a new development in neighbouring Peterlee for 70 homes on disused land.

“It’s a beautiful part of the world”, Liz said. “But people here are so run down and have been treated so negatively in the past they feel it’s just something that’s just going to happen.”

When approached for comment by the Express, Michael Kelleher, head of planning and housing at Durham County Council, said: “The Horden Masterplan has been subject to extensive consultation with residents and has received strong support. The aim is to regenerate the village and improve life for local people by tackling issues such as the high number of empty homes in the Numbered Streets, supporting those with housing needs and enhancing community facilities.

“The acquisition of properties in Third and Fifth Street will pave the way for new council housing that is truly affordable, alongside the provision of private housing.

“We understand this is an unsettling time, and we are working closely with owners and landlords to negotiate the purchase of their properties and identify the housing needs of local people.

“Owners are not being offered auction prices. We have appointed an independent firm to undertake property valuations in line with the RICS Red Book Valuation approach, which is widely recognised as a standard approach to valuation. Tpas, a tenant engagement specialist, has also been appointed to provide residents with additional advice and support.”

A stunning seaside town that has turned its reputation around and is experiencing a ‘second wind’ of tourism has been crowned the cheapest coastal resort in England

Moving to the coast doesn’t have to cost a fortune, especially in this charming seaside town. Demand for coastal properties has spiked by a staggering 115 per cent compared to pre-pandemic levels, with swathes of Brits ready to ditch the city for a more laid-back life filled with golden sands and fish and chips. However, the sudden demand combined with limited availability has led to house prices skyrocketing in certain areas.

Take Sandbanks, for example – a stunning neighbourhood in Poole, Dorset with crystal-clear waters, golden beaches, that’s become somewhat of an A-list magnet in recent years. Here, average house properties cost a whopping £965,708 – more than triple the national average.

READ MORE: Huge boost for ‘declining’ UK seaside town as abandoned pier to get £13m refurb

If the near-million price tag is slightly out of budget, don’t worry – as the Co-Operative Bank has analysed recent data to find the most affordable UK coastal towns for both buying and renting. In England, Morecambe came out top, with average house prices at just £194,295.

“This Lancashire gem captures the essence of the English seaside, offering panoramic views over the seafront – as well as some of the most affordable house prices in the country,” the bank said. “The average house price here is actually lower than in Oban at £194,295, working out as 7.44 times the average annual income.

“However, rent prices in Morecambe are slightly higher, at an average of £821 per month. That’s 37.7 per cent of the average monthly income.”

Top 20 seaside locations in UK – full list

1. Oban
2. Morecambe
3. Blackpool
4. Troon
5. Filey
6. Scarborough
7. Whitby
8. Southport
9. Sunbar
10. Swansea
11. Portsmouth
12. Torquay
13. Eastbourne
14. Weymouth
15. Hastings
16. Ramsgate
17. Deal
18. Aberystwyth
19. Margate
20. Newquay

Boasting five miles of soft golden sand and an award-winning seafront promenade that looks out onto the stunning Lakeland Fells, Morecambe was once branded one of the worst seaside towns in the country. Now, it hopes to take on the hyped-up coastal resorts of Cornwall and bring its glory days back.

“Morecambe offers you the chance to enjoy the many pleasures of the seaside, whether it’s flying kites, building sandcastles or enjoying the views across the bay,” Hails Visit Lancashire. “Stroll along Morecambe’s promenade with an ice cream or have fun seeing it on two wheels, before grabbing a picnic and heading on down to the beach for a spot of sandcastle making or kite flying.”

Must-see attractions include the TERN project, which features a series of sculptures situated along Morecambe’s seafront – from steel cormorants, gannets and razorbills to the statue of Eric Morecambe, which was unveiled by the late Queen in 1999. The Art Deco Midland Hotel has also undergone restoration in recent years – making it one of the town’s most impressive structures.

Featuring four modern 30s-inspired rooms, six rooftop suites, a top-notch restaurant and ultra-stylish bar, Midland is a great base for exploring Morecambe, or for splurging out on a fancy afternoon tea while soaking in the views. Prices start from £145 per night.

*Prices based on Booking.com listings at the time of writing.

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NEED a holiday this summer but outrageous prices putting you off? We’ve crunched the numbers to find the cheapest locations for family holidays across Europe.

All-inclusive family package holidays from the UK have jumped in price for some of the most popular destinations among Brits, including Spain, Cyprus and Greece.

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However, some holiday hotspots in these countries still have some great deals, if you know where to look.

TUI, Jet2, Travel Supermarket and Love Holidays all gave us the inside knowledge on their most affordable destinations still on sale for summer 2025.

Because where you go in Europe can make a big difference to how much you spend.

These are the cheapest destinations in Europe for a holiday this summer 2025 (All package prices are for two adults and two children and include return flights from the UK).

Sozopol, Bulgaria

Sozopol is a top pick for budget-conscious Brits who want a break in the sun without a big price tag. 

As well as a beautiful old town dotted with cute and cheap cafes and shops, Sozopol has one of the most beautiful beaches in Bulgaria. 

Our Bulgaria expert, Pavlena Todorova, recommends Central Beach in Sozopol over the more famous Sunny Beach in Bulgaria.

This sweeping bay is rich in golden sand and has beautiful, calm blue water that is perfect for swimming. 

Central Beach, as well as Sozopol itself, is also less busy than the capital Sofia and its popular beaches.

Plus, the beach bars and cafes along the sand are slightly cheaper and you’ll find it easier to get a table overlooking the sea. 

Beach Bar, Sparrow, has a shady terrace on the sand and you can get a beer for £2.50 and chicken and chips for £6.

Book with: travelsupermarket.com for seven nights bed and breakfast, staying at the 3-star Flagman Hotel, with flights on Jet2 from Birmingham, £399 per person.

Kos, Greece

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Kos has always had a quiet reputation for being one of the lesser crowded, more affordable of the Greek islands. 

You are spoiled for choice here with brilliant blue waters, sandy beaches and quiet coves, where if you go at the right time of day, you could be the only person on the beach.

Rent a small speedboat for £50 a day and explore the harder to reach beaches, or just take it a mile off the shore and spend the day sunbathing or and jumping off the boat into the crystal clear sea to get cool.

For dinner, one of the many local restaurants in Kos Town will have you filling your boots with gyros wraps, hummus and chips for only £5.

A cold glass of wine to wash it all down is around £4 at most places. 

Sunsets are free and stunning, especially when viewed from a table on the beach.

Book with: jet2holidays.com for seven nights at Anastasia Apartments self catering, with return flights from East Midlands Airport, including 22kg checked luggage per passenger, for £438pp.

Paphos, Cyprus

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Paphos is a top budget destination if you want a mix of sunbathing and sightseeing. 

The coastline is packed with stunning Blue Flag beaches, and spacious sandy stretches all along the coast.

There is a range of hotels in every price range, from 2* self-catering apartments where you can get terrific deals, to luxury villas and 5* star hotels. 

If you want to spend time exploring, many of Paphos’ main attractions are within walking distance of the harbour.

Ask if your hotel has a shuttle to get you there, the rest can be explored on foot.

This includes the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kato Paphos Archaeological Park, which has some of the Mediterranean’s best-preserved mosaics and Paphos Old Town, which mixes ancient buildings and streets with modern additions better than most classic cities. 

You have to go to Pinguino on the harbour for breakfast. A full English or a huge pile of pancakes is only £5 and we guarantee you won’t need lunch that day.

Book with: travelsupermarket.com seven nights at the Hilltop Gardens Hotel Apartments self catering, with return flights from London Stansted on Jet2, including 22kg checked baggage per passenger, for £282pp. This deal lands back in the UK on the 4th September, so if you have a few extra inset days at the end of the school holidays, take full advantage!

For a similar, mid-holiday package, departing on 25th July and staying at the Marion Apartments, in Paphos, it’s £339 with loveholidays.com.

Heraklion, Greece

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Crete is the largest of the Greek Islands. In the Heraklion area, you have a choice of different resorts, including Malia, Rethymnon and upmarket Elounda. 

Heraklion is the largest city in Crete and has an interesting history, including the 16th century Koules fortress on the old Venetian port and the striking fortification walls. 

The best deals for beach holidays in this area are just outside the city on the north coast.

There are a lot of resorts along the coastline, most look out onto the brilliant blue Aegean Sea.

The beaches close to Analipsi are the longest and sandiest. The rocky coastline here also makes this a great area for snorkelling. 

You will find there are lots of boat trips and guides offering tours at affordable prices.

Book with: loveholidays.com for seven nights self catering at the 3-star Kasapakis Hotel & Apartments and return flights from London Stansted, £339 per person.

Lanzarote, Canary Islands

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Lanzarote is one the best islands in the Canaries for families.

You are spoiled for choice with more than 100 beaches, many of which are Blue Flag standard with crystal clear water. 

Everything is on offer here, from paddleboarding to boat hire, paragliding and of course, paddling and swimming in the calm waters, which are ideal for younger children.

Plus, the weather here is almost guaranteed to be sunny and hot almost all year, so those who can travel outside of term time can get an even better deal.  

The beaches are framed by green hillsides that have hotels and residential homes nestled in cliffs. 

Deals on hotels from all the major holiday companies are very competitive with packages for as little as £200 per person for a week if you can travel outside of the school holidays. 

 And there are so many beachfront bars and restaurants, if you don’t get food with your hotel package, there is no end of offers to get you in.

Bottles of beer are £4 on the seafront but only £2 if you pick up a pack in the supermarket.

Book with: travelsupermarket.com for seven nights in the 4-star Sands Beach Resort and flights on Thomas Cook from Bournemouth, for £339pp.

Tips for booking bargain breaks in summer 2025

Budget-conscious ways to save money booking a holiday this summer

Go somewhere different.

You may have set your sights on the Costa del Sol but you may find much better deals for lesser-known beach places like Bulgaria and Poland. These destinations have beautiful beaches and low lifestyle costs, with beer as low as £2 a pint. 

Money talks.

To be really clever, choose destinations where the value of the pound is strong. This means more bang for your buck whether you are buying a beer and a sandwich or indulging in a serious shopping spree. This year, the weakest currencies against the GBP include Turkey, Bulgaria and Portugal. 

Staycation in the UK 

Staying on British soil means you don’t have to navigate the airport or pay extra for baggage, transfers or currency exchange. There are still some excellent deals going on UK holiday parks that have water slides, kids clubs and beaches on the doorstep. These can often work out less than overseas flights alone. See our round up of what holiday parks to book this summer here. 

Is all-inclusive always best?

If you are not a big drinker or eater or have fussy kids in the family, booking an all-inclusive might not be the best option for your group. So many resorts have self-catering packages too. You will get all the perks of the resort facilities, like kids clubs, evening entertainment and pools, but with a small kitchenette to make your own lunch and dinner and save big. 

Book very early… 

Some packages, such as with Jet2hoidays and TUI can be booked a year in advance and those willing to commit early can sometimes get some unbelievable discounts.

If you know when you want to travel, keep an eye out for prices on the destinations and resorts you want to book. They may go up and down in price throughout the year, depending on whether airlines and companies have a sale on. 

…or, last minute.

Alternatively, booking last minute can mean some fantastic final dash prices. See our list below for the cheapest places to holiday in Europe this summer. 

Family travel guru Jen Carr, has taken to TikTok to share a “sneaky” travel hack that could save you some money on your next summer holiday with the kids

A savvy travel expert has shared a little-known hack for bagging a cheap last minute family holiday.

Jen Carr, known as @thetravelmum on TikTok, took to the social media platform to share “sneaky little tip” for navigating the Jet2 website to find the best possible price.

She demonstrated how to locate a hard to find calendar, which is where the search for your next bargain holiday begins.

Jen explained: “When you get to this page, you want to go to ‘edit search’ and here you can put in the airports you can travel from (try to include as many as possible), the dates you want to travel, the size of your family, then you can have a look at the calendar and find the cheapest dates for that month.

Once you’ve selected a holiday destination, Jen recommends sorting the prices from low to high, before deciding whether you want to view the prices by per person or total for the whole family. Then simply browse away.

Jen’s tips come as holidaymakers have been advised to avoid taking part in the popular ‘airport theory’ trend, as dozens of travellers have missed their flights after showing up to the gate too late.

A new TikTok trend has taken social media by storm, where travellers ignore the airport advice of showing up to the airport hours before their flight. Instead, passengers are showing up 15 to 20 minutes before their scheduled boarding or departure time.

Even if you’re only carrying a cabin bag, it’s still generally recommended to arrive at the airport 2-3 hours before an international flight, and 1-2 hours before a domestic flight.

As long as you have a digital boarding pass and your suitcase has the permitted measurements and weight, you shouldn’t have any issues breezing through security. But there’s one thing you should know.

Social media users have posted videos of their attempts to make it to their flights on a shorter timeframe, but this has led to some missing their flights, the Daily Mail reported.

TikToker @momlifewithtiff, whose name is Tiffany, documented the moment that she and her husband almost missed their flight by trying out the challenge. She wrote: “Definitely do not recommend trying the airport theory. Will certainly be getting to the airport 2 hours early from now on.”

Posting different snippets from the stressful situation, she filmed from the moment they got stuck in security whilst boarding had already begun, to begging people to cut in line, and finally, being the last two passengers to board the plane before the doors closed.

In a similar situation, another TikTok user @jenny_kurtzz, known as Jenny, said that she found out the plane had left without her showing up at the gate at the time of departure.

Unfortunately, in these circumstances, there isn’t anything that the airline can do.

When this happens, passengers have to book another flight at their own expense. However, this can change depending on the circumstances and their status with the airline.

It’s important for passengers to understand they must arrive at the gate at least one hour prior to departure time. During this hour, passengers board the plane. The departure time is the slot planes should take off, not when boarding begins.

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