For many Arsenal fans, there will be a sense of deja vu. Leading the Premier League at Christmas before being eaten up by a relentless Pep Guardiola side is something the Gunners have got a little bit used to.
Seeing a seven-point lead over Manchester City cut to two in the space of five games won’t exactly fill them with confidence either.
“We’re back on top of the table but we’re not watching City too much, or the other teams,” said Bukayo Saka. “We’re in control now. We know if we win every week we’ll stay there.”
Arteta added: “The only thing we can control is our own performance and results and we know how long it’s going to be and how tough is this league. That’s it.”
Manchester City have obviously got history on their side. Guardiola has won the Premier League title six times, the Bundesliga three times with Bayern Munich and La Liga three times with Barcelona. Arteta has no league titles as a manager.
Guardiola’s squad are full of Premier League winners, players who know what it takes to end a campaign strong, while none of the Arsenal squad have won a Premier League – but have experienced losing leads over the past few seasons.
Why can’t this season be different though? Manchester City look far from the relentless side they have in previous seasons – and have already lost four games this campaign, compared to Arsenal‘s two losses.
“We will be there. If they follow me we will be there but we have to improve,” said Guardiola.
“I know the level in Europe, in the Premier League, I know Arsenal and the other teams and how tough they are. It is not enough.
“The spirit is there, last season we did not have the spirit or aggression or hunger – all the attributes they need. It is not about the highlights and how good the actions are, there is something that comes from inside where we will recover from the Club World Cup.”
City’s attack is flowing, having scored 10 more goals than Arsenal, but having also conceded six more – you feel the title race could be defined by whether City’s goals can outshine Arsenal‘s solidity.
LOVE Island star Lucie Donlan is shockin’ around the Christmas tree in a saucy low-cut Ann Summers dress.
The model, 27, helped the raunchy retail chain launch its Styles range, including this red All Wrapped Up festive number with a giant bow.
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Love Island star Lucie Donlan modelled this saucy low-cut Ann Summers dressCredit: Ann SummersThe model sleighing it in the company’s Sexy Santa Basque setCredit: Ann Summers
She has also been seen sleighing it in the company’s Sexy Santa Basque set.
“When I first arrived it felt like stepping into nature as the whole hotel has been beautifully designed with sandy warm colours inspired by our planet and aspects of rich cultural Emirati heritage.
Lucie has been in a relationship with her former co-star, Luke Mabbott, 29, with the pair going on to become engaged in 2021.
Back in December the loved-up pair got accused of ‘getting engaged for likes on Instagram’ when they celebrated their proposal on holiday.
Luke shared a snap from their special moment with the caption: “2 year’s engaged…”
Some took to the comments section to share how confused they were by their engagement.
One user commented: “I’ve always said that an engagement isn’t real unless they’ve set a date for a wedding.
They continued: “Otherwise, it’s just like my plan to be a millionaire: it’s it’s vague goal without any realistic “when” or “how”.”
The couple shot to fame on different series of Love Island.
Lucie helped the raunchy retail chain launch its Styles rangeCredit: Ann SummersLucie looks striking in this green elf setCredit: Ann Summers
A GROUP of office workers were left shocked when they learned their colleague is a former child star, and had a role in an iconic festive film.
The actor now keeps a low profile working as a Logistics Manager for the upcoming 2026 Commonwealth Games, which will take place in Glasgow. But do you recognise him?
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Office workers had the highlight of their week when they realised their colleague is a former child starCredit: tiktok@commonwealthsportJoe Lane was left mortified when his co-workers realised he was in the Nativity! movie back in 2009Credit: tiktok@commonwealthsportJoe portrayed Edward, one of the key characters in the hit film NativityCredit: Lionsgate
He portrayed schoolboy Edward in the film, which is centred around a heartbroken primary school teacher’s journey to make his class’s nativity play reach Hollywood, and win his ex-girlfriend back in the process.
In a TikTok shared by Joe’s colleagues, the former actor was left red-faced when they figured out his famous past.
The clip showed Joe, dressed in a Christmas jumper and a festive headband, as he is shaken by his colleagues.
It then cuts to clips of him in the movie, before his colleagues recreate a hilarious moment by his character Edward.
Joe’s starring moment in the film saw him take to the microphone during the final Nativity performance and impersonate fart sounds with his armpit.
The former child star had his head in his hands when his co-workers cornered him at his desk and re-enacted the funny moment in the TikTok video.
“When you find out your colleague was in the nativity films,” read the video, with the caption adding: “The most exciting office development this week”.
The film was cast by producers holding open calls for local kids in Coventry, with the aim to use non-professional actors for an authentic feel.
After appearing in the first movie, Joe appears to have steered away from continuing an acting career.
He went on to become a semi-professional rugby player, before moving into logistics for sporting events.
Coventry-born Joe is now living in Glasgow after spending time in Australia and London.
It appears he has been keen to keep his famous past under wraps in the workplace.
One TikTok user commented on the video to reveal that they had previously worked with Joe, and had no clue of the connection.
“I worked with Joe at Coventry Rfc and unless I was out of the loop he kept this very well hidden!” they said.
Another commenter joked “So he didn’t become shrek??”, referencing the scene in Nativity! where character Mr. Poppy told Edward, “You could be Shrek”.
Joe as Edward, centre, in the Christmas smashCredit: LionsgateJoe was less than impressed when his colleagues reenacted his famous screen momentCredit: tiktok@commonwealthsport
Cadi Mullane, who played Crystal – one of the main children in the film – previously detailed what filming was like in a TikTok video.
She said: “I was part of an agency called Stagecoach, they were looking for kids who were really chatty, who could dance a little bit and sing a little bit. Apparently that was me.
“There was about seven auditions. But I’m from Wales so I had to keep travelling up to London which was a bit annoying, but it was OK because I really wanted to be in a film.
“They looked at how well we could sing and how well we got on with the other kids, cause that was important, obviously.”
Cadi went on to recall how the movie filmed throughout the summer, with no scripts for the children.
She said: “It was filmed in Coventry but obviously I’m not from Coventry so we all stayed in a hotel together. It was like The Suite Life Of Zach and Cody, honestly.
“There was no scripts. Everything was improvised, except from some bits. We basically just spoke loads of rubbish, and then we were asked to say it again on camera.”
The film is centred around a Coventry school’s nativity show and their feat to take it to HollywoodCredit: AlamyThe film was fronted by award winning actor Martin FreemanCredit: AlamyA number of local children took part in the film, with producers hiring non-professionals for an “authentic feel”Credit: Alamy
The city of Vilnius in Lithuania has been named this year’s Christmas Capital of EuropeCredit: GettyAlice Penwill visited Vilnius to celebrate the festive period in a city that embraces ChristmasCredit: Supplied
There’s festive fodder in every direction I turn and, unlike many European cities at Christmas, there are no obnoxiously loud rides or tacky grottos.
Instead, the capital of Lithuania celebrates the festive period with pure charm, transforming into a glittery wonderland as soon as it is acceptable to do so (generally in late-November).
Vilnius’s main attraction, an enormous decked-out Christmas tree, stands tall in Cathedral Square, accompanied by a traditional carousel and market stalls dishing out warm apple punch and pots of doughnuts drizzled in chocolate.
This tree has some competition, though. In early November each year, The Senator’s Passage, just up the road from Cathedral Square, receives its own grand tree.
The owner tells me with a grin that it usually takes around 15 workers to drag the tree through the narrow passageway and dress it for the season.
It seemed worth the hassle though, with seven metres of green branches dripping in twinkling lights.
If you plan your travel dates well, you can visit for “Christmas Before Christmas”, where seasonal events take place throughout the city prior to the main event.
This year, the festivities took place on December 13 with performances from carol singers, festive tours and even a holiday-themed train and bus.
Christmas Before Christmas relies on a special currency — a red pine cone which visitors can swap for a warming cherry tea or a sweet treat.
There’s so much to keep you entertained during the day, from ice skating to strolls through wintry gardens, but the magic of Vilnius doesn’t truly comes to life until the sun goes down.
This is especially true for Konstantinas Sirvydas Square, which this year has an impressive 144 Christmas trees.
Delicious grub
Or, for a truly epic festive display, a must-see is the Poniuų Laimė in the Old Town’s Jewish Quarter.
The cafe selling delicate cakes and cookies decorates its front for each season, and this December it became the Orient Express, embellished with huge red velvet bows and suitcases.
If you’re looking for something a little different, however, you may want to swing by the Lukiskiu Kalejimas Christmas market set up in a former prison.
Eagle-eyed Stranger Things fans will recognise this as the filming location of the Russian prison where Hopper was held in the fourth series.
There is a lot to keep you entertained across the Christmas events throughout the city, day and nightCredit: Supplied
It looks a little different at this time of year, though, with locally-made drinks, teas and gifts being flogged from a once gloomy building that housed prisoners until as recently as 2019.
Of course, a festive getaway isn’t complete with some delicious grub.
I had never considered Lithuania to be a place for foodies — but in fact, Vilnius has four Michelin-star restaurants.
It was one simple snack that took the biscuit for me — kepta duona, which is essentially fried bread in garlic.
The crunchy, delicious treat is a bit like a meat-free pork scratching, but much tastier.
The bagels at Baleboste are a must-try during your trip to LithuaniaCredit: Supplied
If you’re a fan of bagels, then stop by Baleboste, where I felt more like I was being welcomed into someone’s dining room than a Jewish cafe.
Here, the ring-shaped bread is served warm with just the right amount of sweetness and a sprinkling of poppy seeds.
I had mine with a pulled beef filling which comes with mustard and plenty of pickles.
This isn’t something locals will be enjoying at this time of year as traditionally in Lithuania, it’s common to fast in the run-up to December 24, and most families don’t eat meat in this period — even on Christmas Eve.
Instead, they get together for a 12-course evening dinner called Kucios where they feast on beetroot, dumplings, lots of fish, berries and nuts.
You can enjoy a taster of this feast at Ertlio Namas, a Michelin-Guide restaurant in the Old Town.
After that delicious spread, I practically rolled back to the Hotel Pacai which has spacious rooms with enormous bathtubs for when you need to warm up after wandering around the chilly city.
If you’re lucky, like I was, there might even be a sprinkling of snow outside the window come morning.
Vilnius has four Michelin-star restaurants for visitors to try outCredit: Supplied
GO: Lithuania
GETTING THERE: Ryanair flies from from London Luton to Vilnius from £34 return. See ryanair.com.
STAYING THERE: Rooms at the Hotel Pacai cost from £154.21 (€176) per night, including breakfast. See hotelpacai.com/en.
Queues of up to an hour formed at the entrance to the Port of Dover
Long queues of travellers formed earlier at the Port of Dover, which have been blamed on IT issues at French border controls.
The delays, which lasted into the afternoon, were described as “absolute chaos” by one traveller, and images of the port showed a long line of vehicles queuing at a standstill.
Eurotunnel was also experiencing lengthy delays at its Folkestone terminal on Saturday – at the start of a weekend which is expected to see the Christmas getaway reach its peak.
The Port of Dover reported that traffic was free-flowing just before 15:00 GMT, after several hours of delays.
The port is expected to see about 30,000 cars pass through it until Sunday.
One traveller had posted earlier on X: “Horrible experience at Port of Dover this morning. Absolute chaos.
“Traffic at a standstill for an hour. Worst start to holiday imaginable. Just missed our boat. Still stuck. Kids in car.”
One local resident told the BBC the town was “proper rammed”.
Gareth Fuller/PA Media
Holiday and freight traffic queue on M20 to use the Channel Tunnel
The port advised passengers not to arrive more than two hours before their sailing.
It said if customers do miss their scheduled sailing due to the wait times, their ferry operator will place them on the next available crossing.
Long queues were also seen on the roads leading into Dover.
A port spokesperson asked all port-bound traffic to remain on main roads “to allow the Dover community to travel to festive events and finish their Christmas shopping in the town”.
Eurotunnel said it had a waiting time of two and a half hours for cars and 60 minutes for freight at its Folkestone terminal due to “high demand”.
Meanwhile, public transport operators had experienced problems reaching the port.
Bus company Stagecoach said in a statement: “Due to heavy traffic at the docks the service will be unable to serve Eastern Docks at the moment.”
LILY Allen hosted a glittering Christmas party last night at London’s most notorious nightspot Stringfellows – turning heads in a sexy Santa outfit.
The singer, 40, slipped into a figure-hugging red mini dress trimmed with fluffy white fur, complete with lace suspenders adorned with bows.
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The provocative look was teamed with a velvet red Santa cape as she embraced festive glamour.
Lily Allen dances with the London Gay Men’s ChorusCredit: GettyLily and Ella EyreCredit: GettyThe star wore a sexy Santa outfit with suspendersCredit: GettyShe paired the lingerie with a fabulous dramatic coatCredit: Splash
Lily styled her hair in a Sixties-inspired blow-dry and accessorised with a classic Chanel handbag.
She added extra height with a pair of skyscraper white heels, which featured a matching fur embellishment.
Never one to take herself too seriously, the cheeky star was spotted sticking out her tongue as she posed and mingled with guests.
Lily took to the dancefloor with a host of celebrity pals including pop sensation Olivia Rodrigo.
She also shared a playful moment dancing with the London Gay Men’s Chorus, who attended the bash.
Fellow singer Ella Raye was among the guests too, wowing in a sheer red stocking dress as she joined Lily for a photo.
Bono’s daughter, Jordan Hewson, was seen at the star-studded event, lounging on a sofa with Lily.
The party took place at Stringfellows, the legendary gentlemen’s club founded by Peter Stringfellow in the 1970s.
Originally opening in Soho before moving to Covent Garden, Stringfellows quickly became synonymous with celebrity excess, glamour and late-night debauchery.
Over the decades, it has welcomed everyone from Hollywood stars to rock royalty, cementing its status as one of London’s most infamous nightlife institutions.
The Christmas bash comes during a significant year for Lily, who has launched new music widely described as a “revenge” album following her split from husband David Harbour.
The record draws on heartbreak and betrayal after Lily publicly accused the actor of cheating.
Fans have praised the project for its raw honesty and cutting lyrics, marking a bold new chapter in her career.
lily posed up a storm in her stockingsCredit: SplashHer dark tresses beautifully contrasted against the outfitCredit: SplashShe finished the look off with a white clutch bagCredit: Splash
Mirror reporter Julia Banim enjoyed a winter spa break at A-list favourite and foodie haven Carden Park, and a little bit of drizzle did nothing to dampen her spirits
06:00, 20 Dec 2025Updated 07:14, 20 Dec 2025
With Christmas fast approaching, I was fortunate enough to enjoy a winter spa break at a hotel beloved by celebs, and I’m happy to say it’s not down south.
Nestled in the Cheshire countryside, Carden Park is reportedly a favourite of A-lister couples such as Ryan Reynolds and Blake Lively, as well as Molly-Mae Hague and Tommy Fury. And the spa garden, complete with jacuzzis, fire pits, and heated glass pods, may well leave you feeling like you’re on a very high-end version of Love Island.
Back when I’m A Celebrity was filmed in North Wales during the pandemic, Carden Park even served as a plush eviction hotel for booted off campmates. It must have felt like a true haven for contestants after their insect infested ordeal, but what does this glam retreat have to offer for an average Joe such as myself?
Situated in complete seclusion amid lush green grounds, it’s no wonder that stars favour this haven of relaxation, which feels a world away from the bustle of city life. But, with pretty Chester and the bargain heaven that is Cheshire Oaks just around the corner, shopaholics won’t have much to complain about.
If you listen carefully during the sweeping drive through the grounds, you may well hear the gentle putt of a golf ball, but today, I’m in no mood for sport. It’s time to completely unwind and put all the stresses of the dark and gloomy season aside.
The spa building is separate from the hotel, an elegant, immaculate building which smells heavenly. The staff are warm and welcoming, and the bathrobes are soft and fluffy. I’m here on a girls’ weekend with my mum and my sister, and I can’t think of a better place to natter the day away over some celebratory fizz.
Now, stripping to your swimsuit on a drizzly November day isn’t for the faint-hearted, but I can assure you that once you slip your shoulders under the waters of the vitality pool, you’re absolutely away.
The sky is clear and blue, and I can barely tear myself away from my tranquil spot for my spa treatment, a wonderfully indulgent 50-minute Time-to-Pause ritual treatment, which left my sunlight-deprived skin glowing and petal soft.
Admittedly, I sometimes struggle to drift off during spa treatments and find myself anxiously making to-do lists in my head, but here I found myself almost completely disconnected from the world.
It certainly helps that, after you’re done with treatments, you have a choice of relaxation rooms to unwind in before entering reality. This includes a sensory room, complete with soothing screen, and, my personal favourite, the deep relaxation room, where the crackling fire offered a very seasonal feel.
Famished from all my ‘lady of leisure-ing’, I head for lunch at Elements, where we enjoy matching, and tasty, Tandoori Chicken Open Sandwiches overlooking the spa garden, washed down with some of the most delicious peach mimosas I’ve ever had. Any future visitors should make sure to grab a portion of the salt and pepper chips – a truly sensational side, and even better than your favourite chippy.
Even in what can feel like the greyest time of the year, the floor-to-ceiling windows let in plenty of light, and for a moment I feel as though we were back on holiday with a whole week of sunshine ahead of us.
The waiters also couldn’t be more lovely, even phoning down to the spa garden’s Bollinger champagne bar to ensure we had hot chocolate treats waiting for us when we returned. Very welcome when wearing flips in November.
Full from our hearty lunch, we head back down to the spa garden, to luxuriate in one of the glass pods with our hot chocs. Although we are already quite comfortable, a member of the bar staff came over with cuddly hot water bottles for us – a very sweet touch.
The bar is described as running in ‘all-weather’, and we certainly didn’t feel any less pampered for a bit of chill. That being said, we are Northern, and Southerners may well feel differently.
The afternoon soon melts away as we set about the very important task of trying out the spacious jacuzzis, plus the outdoor sauna, with its floor-to-ceiling window. It’s life I could very easily get used to. While we don’t mind a spot of drizzle, when it starts to rain, we head inside to the Indoor Thermal Suite.
While I would be more than happy with just the one sauna, Carden Park offers a relative gallery of thermal experiences, from a Finnish sauna to a Tepidarium, all encircling a sparkling ice fountain.
There are even two steam rooms to choose from – salt and aroma. I particularly enjoy the indoor vitality pool, which looks out over the garden and offers gorgeous therapeutic jets of bubbles.
I could happily float around gossiping in the vitality pool for hours, but it’s time to dry off and get glammed up for the next part of our dreamy day – dinner. We’re set to dine at Carden Park’s award-winning à la carte restaurant, The Vines, which has a swish yet welcoming feel.
Typically of me, I’ve forgotten my posh shoes and have to borrow some smart boots from my much more organised mum (this isn’t somewhere you stomp in with your muddy trainers!).
I am touched, however, by staff reassurances that they would have sorted me out with suitable shoes in a pinch, which definitely helps alleviate my embarrassment.
Carden Park Hotel is tastefully decorated, with a cosy feel perfect for blustery winter nights. But The Vines elevates this to a whole new level of elegance. Atmospheric, yet never daunting, we are made to feel at home, and there is a gently lively buzz to the room. The sort of sparkle you hope for any chatty girls’ night, albeit far posher than my usual Saturday.
The staff, are friendly and attentive, – an ongoing theme – while every single course on our taster menu is nothing short of superb. Even the freshly baked bread and butter is memorable.
There’s a real northern, comforting sense to the menu – the BBQ Cheshire Venison Loin is sublime – and there’s plenty of experimentation, with intriguing flavour inspirations from far and wide.
The roasted monkfish on the bones, served with bombay potatoes and a tasty coconut and kaffir lime sauce, is a real highlight. And I have to admit, even though I initially feel a little squeamish tucking into the chicken & rabbit galantine, this is dreamy.
Each dish is paired with a delicious drink, explained to us by the very knowledgable sommelier. I particularly love how creative these pairings were, with the sweet Hungarian Tokaji wine, which accompanies the caramelised apple pie, being my absolute favourite.
It’s always a surprise to me that this honeyed drink, which I can’t get enough of when in Budapest, hasn’t become fashionable among chic sorts in the UK yet.
In terms of my personal ranking, this is closely followed by the Brown Butter XO cocktail, served alongside the Banana & Popcorn Iced Parfait, which tastes like a desert in itself. There should be far more buttery cocktails in my opinion.
Although I try to pace myself, this is a table filled with temptation and I happily enjoy every drop. Really, is there a more blissful evening than sitting with two of your favourite people, enjoying a range of novel yet tasty treats? I think not.
When the time comes to leave the restaurant, I practically waddle to my room. I have a large appetite, and proud of it, but this hearty taster menu has defeated me. Thankfully, my room is clean, comfortable and with deep plush pillows. I’m soon enjoying the easy sleep of the truly rested.
Although I’ve enjoyed some lovely spa days in my time, I have to say nothing has ever come close to Carden Park. The setting is idyllic, the facilities are extensive, and every inch feels immaculate and well thought out.
Not to mention, the culinary experiences on offer are just as special as those found in the spa treatment rooms. Foodies, bring your appetites.
I will treasure my memories of Carden Park, and wholeheartedly recommend it as a winter bolthole, whether for a pre-Christmas getaway or January detox.
KHLOÉ Kardashian has dropped some hot tea about changes to the family’s infamous Christmas Eve Party.
The Good American co-founder spoke on her podcast, Khloé in Wonder Land, that the venue for the lavish affair might move, but the budget won’t.
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The Kardashian-Jenner sistersCredit: HuluPic of Kendall Jenner, Kim Kardashian, Kourtney Kardashian Barker, Khloé Kardashian, Kylie Jenner and Kris JennerCredit: 2023 Hulu
“We all equally split the cost of the party,” Khloé said in the podcast. “Because it’s a family [thing].”
She also admitted that the famed Kardashian-Jenner family’s iconic Christmas Eve party is getting ready for some significant changes this year.
Momager extraordinaire, Kris Jenner, who spoke as a guest on the podcast, verified the changes to the party she has been hosting since 1978.
“It gets really crazy,” Kris stated. “I think one of the most fun things, too, is to be able to share things with our friends. We’ve always been able to give out some amazing gifts at the end of the party.”
While the glam vibes might stay the same, the annual A-list Hollywood party is going to look very different.
As the family prepares to create another unforgettable evening, the exciting news is that Kendall Jenner will be stepping into the hosting role this year at her stunning Beverly Hills mansion.
This is the second year Kendall has taken on the role of host.
Last year, she had a “smaller” cozy affair at her, chock-full of her 818 Tequila. The new role as hostess comes with its own delightful challenges, especially since the family’s other homes are currently being renovated.
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The Kardashian clan celebrates Christmas in CalabasasCredit: Instagram/kimkardashianThe famous family goes all out every year for their holiday partiesCredit: Instagram
“It’s pretty much the usual,” she recently told People magazine. “Last year, we did a smaller Christmas Eve party, and it was super lovely. Usually, they’re kind of these blowouts for the last, like, since I was born. But we’re doing a smaller one again this year, and I’m really happy about it.”
Kris created this tradition in the 1970s as a joyful occasion for family and friends, and it naturally grew as the family expanded.
The early 2000s marked a significant transition for the party, as it really took off following Kris’s marriage to Caitlyn Jenner.
The event gained prominence, particularly with the success of the Keeping Up With The Kardashians reality show, which launched in 2007.
Khloe Kardashian fake slaps Kylie Jenner in matching pajamas on ChristmasCredit: Instagram/kyliejennerKendall Jenner all dressed up for Christmas EveCredit: Instagram
As time went on, Kris graciously passed the baton to her talented daughters.
The party has been hosted at various times by Kim, Kourtney, Khloé, Kendall, and Kylie, with each of them bringing their unique flair and creativity to the festivities.
The video had the caption “Merry Kristmas!!! Come celebrate the holidays with us in Wonder Land.”
Fans are surely reminiscing about the fabulous past celebrations, beautifully documented in social media posts that have showcased glamorous outfits and exquisite decorations.
One fan wrote, “Kris is the Christmas queen.”
Another follower wrote, “Kris should have her own wrapping paper line.”
“We’re cool with being ‘random people’ at the party, just saying,” a third fan pleaded.
This year’s changes promise to infuse fresh energy into their beloved holiday traditions, and we can’t wait to see what the Kardashian-Jenners have in store.
Inside one of Kris Jenner’s over-the top Christmas Eve parties with A-list attendeesCredit: Instagram/Kim KardashianThe Kween of Kris MasCredit: Instagram/Kim Kardashian
Prague has been crowned the cheapest Christmas market destination in Europe with £2 pints and £74 hotels, and it’s also one of the most photographed festive spots on the continent
Journalist Jackie Annett visited the Old Town Square of Prague, Czech Republic leading up to Christmas.
If you’re on the hunt for the ultimate Christmas market to explore this December, then you’re in luck. Hoppa has done the legwork for you and identified the most affordable destination to soak up the festive atmosphere.
The airport transfer experts have scrutinised dozens of European winter holiday spots, considering factors such as average accommodation costs, Tripadvisor reviews, and even the price of a pint.
And the European location that offers the best value for money this Yuletide is…Prague!
I agree with them after visiting the scenic city of Prague two years ago during the Christmas period. The Old Town Square has an iconic Gothic Church, a 20-Metre Christmas tree and is the most festive place I’ve ever experienced.
It truly comes alive in December when the Christmas lights sparkle, locals sing traditional Czech carols and chalets sell everything from Trdelník (chimney cake) to hand-painted Czech Marionettes and puppets.
In addition to a visually stunning Christmas market, you’ll find an impressive 4,811 attractions to keep you entertained. With a score of 7.5 out of 10, the average cost of a 3-star hotel in Prague is a mere £74, and a pint will set you back just £2.17, according to secretldn.com.
The square is lined with eateries where you can sit back, enjoy reasonably priced food and drink, and indulge in some people-watching. Dinner with drinks typically costs between 250-400 CZK (roughly £8 to £14), with street food being even more affordable.
You can enjoy traditional dishes like Goulash, Svíčková (beef in cream sauce) or Vepřo knedlo zelo (pork, dumplings, sauerkraut) washed down with mulled wine, beer or Tatratea : A popular tea-based spirit.
In fact, the Christmas market is so picturesque that it’s been dubbed the most photographed Christmas market in Europe by various media outlets and Prague City Tourism.
There’s still ample time to visit – the market operates annually from late November until early January, transforming the square into a magical scene dominated by the towering Gothic spires of Týn Church and the Astronomical Clock.
One of the best aspects is that despite being only a two-hour flight from the UK, once you set foot in the Old Town Square, it feels as though you’ve travelled back in time. And you can get there for as little as £27 return (if you book well in advance), leaving plenty of spare change for a few £2 pints of beer.
The 10 most budget-friendly European winter getaway destinations:
WHEN it comes to Christmas, you probably have a lot of family plans and then for the New Year, you might be seeing friends – but that time in between can be tricky to plan things to do.
Known as Twixmas, the period between Christmas and New Year – usually December 27, 28, 29 and 30 – always feels like you’re in a bit of a limbo.
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There are a number of different events and activities to do during Twixmas, including The Traitors Live ExperienceCredit: The Traitors: Live Experience
You don’t know what day of the week it is, whether things are open or closed and you’re living off of leftovers from the big day.
So, instead of stressing about what you can and can’t do, here are 50 things across the UK that you can enjoy during Twixmas.
The Traitors Live Experience, London
Traitors fans can fully immerse themselves in the show at the live experience in Covent Garden, London.
You can opt to not be chosen as a traitor, but if you don’t mind then you might spend a couple of hours deceiving people…
There are a ton of ice skating rinks across the UK at the moment, most of which will be disappearing across January.
Ice skating is a fun winter activity and isn’t necessarily Christmassy so it is worth checking out the rink close to you and when it closes for the season.
One great site to visit is Somerset House in London, where you can go for a spin on the ice before grabbing a drink at The Chalet by Jimmy Garcia and looking out at the scenic setting.
It costs from £14 for adults and £12 for kids,
The Hitchhiker’s Guide To The Galaxy, London
The Hitchhiker’s Guide to The Galaxy experience is running in London until February 15.
During the experience, visitors can join characters including Arthur Dent, Zaphod Beeblebrox, and Fenchurch on a galactic adventure.
This is a new production and costs from £42.
The Legend of the Titanic, London
For those who want something immersive to do but are also interested in history, head to Dock X in Canada Water to The Legend of the Titanic.
The experience allows visitors to learn about the 1914 tragedy, as well as get a feel for what the ship would have looked like via AR.
It costs from £24 for adults and £16 for children.
The Titanic experience allows visitors to learn about the 1914 tragedy, as well as get a feel for what the ship would have looked like via ARCredit: The SUN – Cyann Fielding
Enchanted Tree Trail, Wentworth Castle Gardens, Barnsley, South Yorkshire
At Wentworth Castle Gardens in South Yorkshire, visitors can head on an enchanted tree trail.
Across the trail, visitors will see small creatures in their secret world.
It is running throughout the Twixmas period and costs from £6.50 per adult and £3.25 per child.
Cinema, various
What better time to head to a cosy film screening than when you have time off and are feeling lazy?
Between Christmas and New Year’s, a lot of cinemas are open and operating as normal.
It is the perfect time to feel like you’re getting out but also kicking up your feet at the same time.
And there are a number of great movies in the cinemas at the moment including the second part of Wicked, comedy Fackham Hall, and from December 19, the new Avatar: Fire and Ash.
Cinemas are a great place if you want to catch up on the latest films whilst staying indoorsCredit: Getty
Sunflowers Needle Felting Workshop, Lyveden near Oundle, Northamptonshire
Looking for something to do solo? Then why not head to Lyveden in Northamptonshire for a needle felting workshop.
Over two sessions, guests will learn how to transform wool into a small piece of art.
The workshop is designed for beginners, and by the end of the two sessions, guests will have created their own sunflower scene, inspired by Vincent van Gogh.
The workshops take place on Friday, January 30, from 10:30am to 3pm and cost £47.50 per person.
West End Shows, London
If you aren’t a fan of pantos, then why not opt for a London West End show instead?
Sites like TodayTix often offer deals and flash tickets at discounted prices for shows including Wicked and Moulin Rouge.
If you don’t like Pantos, London West End’s are a great option as wellCredit: Alamy
Twixmas swims, Ware Lido
Those who love a bit of an adrenaline rush can head to Ware Lido, which is open for festive swims.
Sessions for December 27 to 31 are still available… though they do advise wearing a wetsuit.
Adult swim sessions cost £6.75 and child sessions cost £3.75.
Fanhams Hall, Ware
The Jacobean mansion, Fanhams Hall, in Ware is hosting afternoon tea in the Drawing Room between Christmas and New Year.
The room overlooks the gardens at the house and visitors can enjoy a tiered offering of finger sandwiches, scones and sweet treats.
It costs from £40 per adult and there is a children’s tea available for £22.50 as well.
The afternoon tea is being hosted from December 27 to 30.
Fanhams Hall is hosting afternoon tea in the Drawing Room between Christmas and New YearCredit: Alamy
Afternoon tea, Petersham
Enjoy some classic British treats at Petersham, near Richmond from £54.00.
The menu includes roast turkey sandwiches and orange and cranberry scones.
You can even upgrade to have prosecco or champagne as well.
Eden Project, Cornwall
Eden Project is is opening to the public on Boxing Day for the first time since 2019, this year.
And over Twixmas there will be three, free running events on December 28, January 1 and January 4.
Eden Project also has an ice rink, which will be open until February.
Eden Project is is opening to the public on Boxing Day for the first time since 2019, this yearCredit: Alamy
And the Eden Project’s festive lights and soundscape experience will also take place each day between 5pm and 8pm, December 27 to 30.
Adult tickets cost £38 each and child tickets cost £12 each.
Helios, St Albans Museum + Gallery
If you love space or your kids do, then head to the solar show known as Helios at St Albans Museum + Gallery.
Here visitors can discover a six metre sculpture of the moon created by UK artist Luke Jerram.
The event runs from December 27 to January 25 and is free to visit.
At St Albans Museum + Gallery you can see a six metre sculptureCredit: Alamy
Jurassic World Experience, London
It is your last chance to see Jurassic World Experience in London before it ends on January 4.
The experience features 10 immersive zones which bring the film to life.
It costs from £35.95 per adult and £28.95 per child.
Drayton Manor, Tamworth
Drayton Manor is the only UK theme park that will have all its major rides open throughout the festive period.
These rides include Gold Rush, The Wave and Maelstrom.
If visiting, your ticket will also include access to a new end-of-day show called ‘Drayton Manor’s Christmas Miracle’.
Tickets to the theme park cost £25 per person.
Drayton Manor is the only UK theme park that will have all its major rides open throughout the festive periodCredit: Alamy
Edinburgh day trip
Head on a day trip to Edinburgh, which was recently named the most festive city in the UK by London Northwestern Railway (LNR).
It is either a short flight or a train journey, with both costing from around £34 per way.
Winchester Science Centre
Another one for aspiring astronauts is the Winchester Science Centre, which reopens on December 27 after being closed for Christmas.
Inside, visitors can explore many interactive exhibits as well as watch the live planetarium show – Solar System Adventure.
The Science Centre costs from £14 per person to visit.
Winchester Science Centre has many interactive exhibits as well as watch the live planetarium show – Solar System AdventureCredit: Alamy
Lights of Abraham, Peak District
Head to Lights of Abraham in the Peak District before they close for the year.
Visitors can go on a moon-lit cable car ride over a valley, which is full of lights.
Then, once they reach the summit, they can set off on a trail that has interactive stepping stones, a neon forest, and giant creatures.
The light trail is open from December 27 to 30 and costs from £22 per adult and £16 per child.
Stonehenge, Salisbury
For a refreshing walk with a bit of history, head to Stonehenge, in Wiltshire.
The world-famous prehistoric monument was built over 5,000 years ago, and visitors can walk around the stones as well as explore a museum about their history.
Stonehenge is only closed on Christmas Day, but has reduced hours on Christmas Eve and Boxing Day.
It costs from £25 per person to visit.
Stonehenge is great for history lovers, and you can explore a museum with information about the stones tooCredit: Getty
National Stone Centre, Matlock
Found just 30 minutes from Derby, on the edge of the Peak District, is the National Stone Centre.
Spread across 40 acres, it is free to visit all year round.
There are a number of activities for families, including geo-trails to find fossils.
There is also gem-panning which costs £3 per person.
There is also a playground as well.
Bounce Below, Llechwedd
Bounce Below features six netted areas with different chambers and bouncy nets for guests to play on.
And it is all set within caves under the ground, which is twice the size of St Paul’s Cathedral.
Tickets cost from £25 per person.
Sun Travel recently visited Bounce Below, finding it to be like a ‘theme park’ in caves.
Bounce Below features six netted areas with different chambers and bouncy nets for guests to play onCredit: Google maps
Silent Pool Gin Festive Distillery Tour, Guildford
Silent PoolGin Distillery in Guildford are running festive tours and tasting experience.
On each tour, a guide will explain how and why the distillery was created, and visitors will get to see the copper gin stills.
To make it a touch more festive, guests will also get to have a ‘Rare Citrus Hot Toddy’.
The tour will take place at various times across December 27 and 28 and it costs £30 per person.
Blenheim Palace, Oxfordshire
There’s nothing quite like visiting a palace and between Christmas and the New Year you could head to all three of the festive attractions at Blenheim Palace, as they remain open until January 3.
These include the Palace of Oz where the State Rooms have been transformed, The Great Skate ice rink and the Illuminated Light Trail.
Entry costs from £41 per adult and £24 per child.
Blenheim Palace has State Rooms themed as the ‘Palace of Oz’Credit: Alamy
Forest Bathing, Wrest Park
At Wrest Park, you could kick start 2026 with some pre-New Year wellbeing with forest bathing.
During the 90-minute experience, visitors will get to go on a slow walk through the woodland with a number of stops to explore nature.
The walk also includes a tea ceremony.
The event takes place on December 28 from 10:30am to 12pm and costs £22 per person.
Glow in the Dark, Mini Golf, Bath
Until January 4, you can head to a glow in the dark minigolf experience in Bath.
Found at Glow Golf, each player will have a glowing ball and the course is decked out with lights.
It costs £11.50 per adult and £9.75 per child.
Twilight Tobogganing, Mendip Activity Centre, Somerset
At Mendip Activity Centre in Somerset, families can explore a toboggan run until January 4.
Each session lasts 60 minutes, and visitors can discover an illuminated area where they can toast marshmallows and have a hot chocolate around a campfire.
It costs around £34 per person.
In Somerset you can go tobogganing at twilightCredit: Instagram
Beyond the Bonnets: Working Women in Jane Austen’s Novels, Willis Museum and Sainsbury Gallery
At the Willis Museum and Sainsbury Gallery visitors can explore the exhibition ‘Beyond the Bonnets: Working Women in Jane Austen’s Novels’.
The exhibition celebrates 250 years of the author and explores a number of true stories of working women from Hampshire, where Austen was from.
An adult ticket costs £5.45 and a child ticket costs £4.50.
Christmas break with Warner Hotels
Warner Hotels have a number of properties across the UK – and many of which have great deals on breaks during Twixmas.
Twixmas breaks start from £249 per person for a three-night stay (based on two people sharing), and include bed, breakfast and three-course dinners, entertainment, access to leisure facilities and activities.
There are also a number of day experiences available, starting from £25 per person.
Bongo’s Bingo: Bingo All The Way, Newcastle
Bongo’s Bingo is in Newcastle at the Boiler Shop over the festive period.
The event features a mix of traditional bingo, dance-offs, raves, and audience participation.
The bingo will be taking place on December 27, 28 and 31 and it costs from £23.
Bongo’s Bingo mixes traditional bingo, dance-offs, raves, and audience participationCredit: Instagram/@bongosbingo
Christmas Rocks, O2 City Hall, Newcastle
Over four days, a festival with rock tribute bands will be performing at O2 City Hall in Newcastle.
There will be AC/DC GB, Fleeting Rumours, Green Days and Paramore UK performing.
The event runs from December 27 to 30 and costs from £29.90 per person.
Twist Museum, London
Head to Twist Museum in London to explore a number of rooms with different illusions that are fun for both kids and adults.
There is also a new Lapland Infinity Forest at the museum, for a little bit of a festive twist.
Prices start from £20 per child and £24.50 per adult.
The Twist Museum currently has a Lapland themed roomCredit: Alamy
Exhibition on Screen: Caravaggio, Tyneside Cinema, Newcastle
A special screening at Tyneside Cinema will show the latest edition of Exhibition on Screen – a documentary series that explores the history behind different artworks.
This time, the event will focus on artist Caravaggio, and it is believed to be the most extensive film made about the artist.
It takes place on Monday, December 29 and costs around £10 for standard tickets.
Christmas Stick Man Trail, Haldon Forest near Exeter
Fans of Julia Donaldson should head to Haldon Forest near Exeter, in Devon for a day of exploring the Stick Man trail.
The trail follows Stick Man as he helps Santa deliver the final present.
The trail runs until January 4 and is free to visit.
In Haldon Forest, near Exeter, there is currently a Stick Man trailCredit: forestryengland
Bubblicious family raves with the Soapbox Theatre, Plymouth
The Soapbox Theatre in Plymouth is hosting a family-friendly dance party, to celebrate New Year’s Eve.
It will include sessions for families with babies and one for older kids as well.
A DJ will play dance music, with glow sticks, UV face painting, and performers present too.
There is also a bar for adults too.
It takes place on December 31 and costs from £10 per person.
Museums, various
Up and down the UK there are many museums that will be open over the period between Christmas and New Year, including the Natural History Museum.
Museums are great spots for a day out especially when it is raining and cold.
And to add to that, a lot are free to visit as well.
There are also tonnes of free museums up and down the UKCredit: Getty
Meet Paddington at Wookey Hole
At Wookey Hole Caves, visitors will be able to meet Paddington as well as explore ancient caves.
The caves are currently decked out with 100,000 lights and there is also an on-site circus show.
It costs from £19 per person.
Big Fat Quiz of the Year, Hampshire
The Wellington Arms in Hampshire is hosting a ‘Big Fat Quiz of the Year’.
Teams can be no bigger than six people, and it costs £2 per person to enter.
And of course there are prizes.
It takes place on December 29 at 6pm to 10pm.
Treasure hunt, Leeds
Treasure Hunt Leeds allows visitors to explore the city and solve clues in the process.
You can see the sights of the city, such as Victorian arcades and the Corn Exchange.
What’s best about this experience, is you can take it at your own pace.
It costs £15 per person.
Hawkchurch Resort and Spa, Axminster, South Devon
What about just having a mini-break?
For example, you could stay at Hawkchurch Resort and Spa for three nights from December 27 from £375.
Each lodge sleeps between two and eight people, and pets are also welcome.
The site itself has amazing views of the Axe Valley, and you can even opt for a lodge with a private hot tub.
You could always check in to a short break somewhere tooCredit: Google maps
Escape rooms, various
Escape rooms are a great family-friendly activity to do, and there are different venues across the UK.
For example, you could even go to Butlin’s Bognor Regis Playxperience where there are a few different options including Escape the Seven Seas Escape Room, which is suitable for children over the age of five.
The majority of escape rooms are more suitable for older kids though.
And prices tend to vary greatly, but you can expect to pay at least £30 per player.
Butlin’s break, across all three sites
Butlin’s is hosting festive breaks from £129 per person at Skegness, Bognor Regis, and Minehead.
These are great for small kids with lots of activities and shows to explore at each site.
Buddhist and Christian leaders attend a Christmas tree lighting ceremony at Jogyesa Temple in Seoul on Dec. 18. Photo by Asia Today
Dec. 18 (Asia Today) — South Korea’s largest Buddhist order held a Christmas tree lighting ceremony Thursday at Jogyesa Temple in central Seoul, bringing together religious leaders from multiple faiths in an annual event organizers described as a symbol of interfaith harmony and peace.
The ceremony took place at Jogyesa, the head temple of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism, in Seoul’s Jongno district.
Venerable Jinwoo, the Jogye Order’s chief administrator, delivered a Christmas message at the event, saying, “We sincerely celebrate the birth of the baby Jesus, who came to illuminate this dark world.”
“Though we walk different paths, we share the same heart to alleviate human suffering and bring light to the world,” he said, adding that participants were renewing a commitment to “unity in diversity.”
Jinwoo said interfaith harmony is a powerful social force for reducing conflict and building peace and urged religious communities to work together toward mutual prosperity.
Among those attending were Jinwoo, Jogyesa abbot Venerable Damhwa and other Jogye Order monks, along with Choi Jong-soo, president of the Korean Conference of Religious Leaders for Peace, and leaders representing Cheondogyo, Catholic, Won Buddhist and Protestant organizations, according to organizers.
In the style of the hit festive film, The Holiday, Matt Bailey and his wife Sophie Addyman, swapped their London flat to spend Christmas in Germany, before flying to Bangkok the following year
After watching the Christmas movie, The Holiday, Matt Bailey and his wife, Sophie Addyman, were left inspired (Image: Handout)
The Holiday has become one of the most beloved Christmas movies in the UK. It follows the journey of two women played by Cameron Diaz and Kate Winslet, who opt to swap their Los Angeles mansion and cosy countryside cottage during the festive season. For obvious reasons, it’s an enduring festive smash.
For two viewers, the film provided more than a merry thrill. It inspired them to find their own house swap, just like Cameron and Kate, for a Christmas like never before.
Matt Bailey, 47, and his wife, Sophie Addyman, 47, had been watching The Holiday, and the next thing they knew, they were signed up to a house-swapping website, looking for somewhere to spend the festive season. “We were in a flat in London, and it was primarily because we wanted to get away for Christmas,” Matt exclusively told the Mirror.
“We didn’t want to pay extortionate accommodation fees for nice places that we wanted to go.” Soon, the couple found a house swap available in the medieval fairytale town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany, which Matt described as “one of the most Christmassy towns in the world”.
Through Love Home Swap, now known as Home Exchange, Matt and Sophie swapped their London flat in Earlsfield with another couple who had a flat that was built into the ancient walls of Rothenburg ob der Tauber. “It was small and cosy, it was just what we wanted,” Matt, a commercial director, said of their accommodation.
Through the direct home swap, they flew out to Germany on December 21 and stayed until December 31. “They have a year-round Christmas museum there, and it was absolutely magical,” Matt shared. “It was like a little chocolate box town.”
In terms of what they got up to during the trip, Matt continued: “We spent a lot of time wandering around. They had a lovely little Christmas market in the town, and we’ve still got a couple of baubles we bought in the Christmas shop there. In Germany, they tend to have their big celebration on Christmas Eve, so we went out for dinner on Christmas Eve, andthen on Christmas Day, we just had a nice, chilled day relaxing.
“We wandered around the town while everything was shut. It’s quite a touristy place, so it was lovely to be over there during Christmas time, and we were the only ones wandering around the town and taking pictures.”
When asked if it felt a little strange not being in the UK for Christmas, Matt confessed that “it did a bit”, but they felt “at home straight away” during the house swap and “were able to ease into German life very easily”.
Having completed their first successful house swap, the couple were keen to broaden their horizons and, the following year in 2013, jetted off to Bangkok for Christmas. Matt explained that they managed to get in touch with a couple from Bangkok that had grown-up children living in London, so they were keen to stay in the city over the festive period.
This saw them swap their southwest London flat for a Bangkok apartment in a tower block right in the centre of the bustling and vibrant capital of Thailand. “It was incredibly well located, and it had a shared swimming pool – it was really nice,” Matt said.
“They don’t celebrate Christmas over there at all, so Christmas Day was just a normal day, but we’d arranged to go on a food-based walking tour around Bangkok.
“It was strange though, as we rang home and everyone was there, sitting around having Christmas dinner, whereas we went to a rooftop bar, had a couple of glasses of champagne on Christmas Day. We later met up with an Australian couple we had met during the food tour and went out for drinks with them to celebrate.”
He added: “It was really quiet at first on Christmas evening, but we were told to go to this really lively place, and before we knew it, six or seven like VW camper vans pulled up, opened the doors and bang, it’s a cocktail bar on the street. Everyone’s just sat on the street, drinking these cocktails from these little vans, which were ridiculously cheap and crazy strong as well.
“Then you had a few food trucks outside, so you got street food, and it just sort of seemed to emerge organically that this whole street just became a party.”
Following their Christmas street party, they then flew to one of the Thai islands on Boxing Day for three days, before returning to Bangkok for the New Year, which Matt described as “absolutely mental.”
The couple have since moved out of London to Lincolnshire and welcomed two children, William, 10 and Jack, six, but are still making the most of being able to house swap. Last year, the family went to Bruges, Belgium, on December 27 for a week to celebrate the New Year, and this year they’re heading to Bonn in Germany.
And that’s not all. The family also uses Home Exchange to plan their half-term holidays, with trips to Portugal, France, Spain, Denmark, Iceland, and Wales.
Matt estimates that they’ve used Home Exchange for 12 trips in total, seeing them only needing to pay for their transport and food during each stay, rather than forking out for accommodation costs. They’ve even used Home Exchange as a way to test out an area before moving, with others doing the same.
Do you have a travel story to share? Email webtravel@reachplc.com
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Las Teresitas beach is walking distance from Santa Cruz, capital of Tenerife
There are options to buy now, pay later with low or no deposit – and grab free kids’ places. So where do you fancy going?
Greek gifts
You can always depend on the Greek islands. Corfu is a lush picture of cypress trees, olive groves and sun-bleached towns.
Make sure to fit in a trip to Paradise Beach, so isolated it can only be reached by boat.
Alternatively, Rhodes has a breathtaking mix of dazzling beaches and ancient ruins.
Take the ferry to the tiny island of Symi, which has a beautiful harbour and a striking 15th-century monastery on the waterfront.
Spain’s Balearic Islands – Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza and Formentera – never fail to please.
Cala Galdana – a cosy, colourful resort set in a lovely cove in southern Menorca – has lots to keep the family entertained.
And of course Ibiza’s non-stop party scene, bohemian vibes and gorgeous sand are rightly legendary.
Choose a cruise
Or save up to £300 off per booking* on a more sedate river cruise. TUI River Cruises runs tours on the Nile in Egypt plus the Rhine, the Danube and the Moselle in Europe with a brand new ship to be launched on Portugal’s beautiful River Douro in Summer 2027.
Corfu is in the Ionian Sea, known for its turquoise waters
Long haul or short?
The new year is the perfect time to think about treating yourself to a holiday.
Tempted by some sunshine? Florida enjoys average temperatures of 25C – so hit the beach, tour Miami and visit Orlando’s theme parks.
Or soak up the sun in Mexico, explore Mayan ruins, laze on powder-sand beaches and stay in an incredible seafront hotel.
The Canaries are always a hit, winter or summer, with Tenerife and Gran Canaria as ever-reliable choices.
Agaete – in the north of Gran Canaria – has some great beaches and natural pools, plus a quaint old town with a walled botanical garden.
The Caribbean shores of Riviera Maya on Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula
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Sign up for weekly emails and you’ll receive any discounts direct to your inbox.
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*Save 10 per cent per booking, up to a maximum discount of £500, with code SALE. Save 10 per cent per booking on TUI package holidays up to a maximum discount of £500. The discount does not apply to infants under two but the discount can still be applied to the rest of the booking. Offer excludes city destinations operated on third party flights apart from Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Muscat and Doha. Discount is valid on holidays departing between May 1, 2026 and October 31, 2027. Minimum spend is £500. Room upgrades and flight extras on TUI flying will count towards your minimum spend. However, other extras such as insurance and TUI Care Foundation donations do not count towards your minimum spend. Offer is valid from Friday December 19, 2025 when logged into a myTUI account. Offer does not apply to accommodation only, flight only, Cruise and Ski bookings. Offer is valid for new bookings only when logged into a myTUI account and can only be redeemed once per booking. Enter code SALE in upper case when on the holiday payment page of our website. See http://www.tui.co.uk or the relevant brochure for booking terms and conditions. Offer is subject to availability and may be amended or withdrawn at any time without notice. This promotional code is non-transferable and not valid in conjunction with any other discount code.
A daunting rainfall forecast isn’t expected to stop Californians or the rest of the U.S. from traveling in record numbers over the end-of-year holiday season.
An estimated 122.4 million people — more than a third of the entire national population — will travel at least 50 miles from home between Dec. 20 and Jan. 1, according to the American Automobile Assn.
That would represent a 2.2% increase over last year, when a record 119.7 million travelers hit the road or took to the skies for the holidays.
“Year-end travel is a mix of family road trips, friend getaways and tropical vacations,” Stacey Barber, vice president of AAA Travel, said in a statement.
Holiday festivities are different for everyone, but “a common thread is the desire to travel, whether it’s returning to your hometown or exploring new destinations,” Barber said.
As always, though, winter weather could pour cold water on some of those festive getaways. A Pacific storm is forecast to bring heavy rain to Southern California over the Christmas holiday — potentially snarling travel and increasing the risk of flooding, said Adam Roser, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service’s San Diego office.
“The storm will move through the region from north to south, starting as early as Tuesday,” Roser said.
Roser said he is confident there will be slick roadways and possible aviation disruptions because of heavy rains.
The peak of the storm for Southern California is likely to start Tuesday and continue through Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, according to Bryan Lewis, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service office in Oxnard. In Orange County, the Inland Empire and San Diego County, light showers may start Tuesday, but the heaviest rainfall is expected to be on Christmas Eve.
Meteorologists say light to moderate showers are forecast for Christmas Day and into the weekend.
AAA expects to see across-the-board increases in modes of travel this holiday season. For example, a projected 109.5 million people will travel by car — a 2% increase compared to last year, according to AAA. For Californians commuting with gas-fueled vehicles, the average price of a gallon of gas this week is $4.33, a 2-cent increase compared to last year.
Approximately 8.03 million travelers will take to the skies to reach their holiday destination, a 2.3% increase compared to last year. AAA said this is the first time more than 8 million domestic air travelers are expected over the end-of-year holiday season.
Boarding passes have burned a hole in many holiday budgets, however. AAA said a round-trip domestic flight is 7% more expensive this year, averaging nearly $900 a ticket.
About 4.9 million travelers will use another mode of transport such as a bus, train or cruise.
IF the Beckhams expected a heartwarming reunion with their oldest son for Christmas, they could be disappointed.
Recent efforts to reach out to estranged Brooklyn — who has been missing from all the family’s milestones this year — appear to have been met with a frosty reception.
The Beckhams’ recent efforts to reach out to estranged Brooklyn appear to have been met with a frosty receptionCredit: Instagram26-year-old Brooklyn was absent from all the family’s milestones this yearCredit: AFPBrooklyn has not been pictured with his family since Christmas last yearVictoria shared a photo of her mum Jackie’s fireplace adorned with stockings. Each bore the name of one of her grandchildren — including BrooklynCredit: Instagram
It is fast approaching 12 months since the rift began, but David and Victoria remain optimistic that their icy relationship might still thaw.
However, 26-year-old Brooklyn was absent from them all. In fact, he has not been pictured with his family since Christmas last year.
This week, his brother Cruz, 20, tried to bridge the divide by sharing throwback snaps on Instagram. One showed Brooklyn with an arm around his youngest sibling on a beach in Brazil when they were little.
And last month, their grandmother Jackie left a sweet comment with a heart emoji under one of Brooklyn’s social media posts.
Overnight, David also shared an old snap of him winning the MLS Cup when he played for LA Galaxy.
But so far, Brooklyn has failed to respond. And his most recent online post made no mention of the rest of the Beckham clan.
If the chance to hang out with the squad’s superstar strikerLionel Messi did not tempt him to turn up, few things will.
David and Victoria are not giving up on reconciling with Brooklyn and his wife Nicola Peltz, 30.
Speaking exclusively to The Sun, a Beckham insider tells us Victoria, who is also mum to Harper, 14, and Romeo, 23, is still struggling to make sense of the fallout.
But ever the showwoman, she is focusing on keeping things merry and bright for the rest of the clan.
We are told: “Victoria is determined not to let the argument with Brooklyn ruin Christmas, even though she is absolutely heartbroken by it.
“It’s been a year since they last all saw each other and it’s something she will never come to terms with.
“But she won’t let it get her down over the festive period as she needs to be strong, especially for Harper, as well as her parents and David’s parents.
“They have done nothing in all of this, but it seems like they’re the ones being punished the most.”
Last month, Victoria shared a photo of her mum Jackie’s fireplace adorned with stockings. Each bore the name of one of her grandchildren — including Brooklyn, who has reportedly cut his grandparents out of his life, too.
Victoria is determined not to let the argument with Brooklyn ruin Christmas, even though she is absolutely heartbroken by it
Insider
Days later, David’s mum Sandra left a comment under a festive social media post Brooklyn had shared. In it, he was seen wrapping up a bottle of his own hot sauce brand, Cloud23, to which Sandra replied, “That for me” alongside a heart emoji.
Her question went unanswered, but followers flocked to the comment section begging Brooklyn to reach out to his family before it’s too late.
One raged: “Go and see your parents . . . you only get one set and that’s it,” while another simply said, “Ring your mother!”
Victoria may be famous for not smiling, but now, in a bid to keep the family’s spirits up, she’s plastering on a big one.
Our source said: “Brooklyn spent so much time with her parents Jackie and Tony for the first few years of his life and they had such a special bond, while Sandra looked after him so much growing up. It’s awful they no longer have that close relationship.
“Harper really misses her big brother and Nicola. Victoria is hoping that Brooklyn at least calls his grandparents over Christmas. She’s given up on him calling her.”
We are told that, as usual, the family will spend Christmas Day surrounded by loved ones at their £12million Cotswolds pile.
Brooklyn stayed deafeningly silent when dad David was finally awarded his knighthood in JuneCredit: InstagramHe was also the only member of the family not celebrating last week when David lifted the MLS Cup again, this time as co-owner of Inter MiamiCredit: GettyDavid shared an ‘olive branch’ snap to Brooklyn amid their family’s feudCredit: Instagram
“They feel it’s a case of the more, the merrier, as it’s then less obvious that Brooklyn isn’t there,” our source revealed.
It’s safe to say that no one could have predicted how bitter things would get this time last year. Granted, there had been simmering tensions between Brooklyn and Nicola and his family since their wedding in 2022.
At the time, there was confusion over Nicola’s decision to wear a Valentino gown instead of one designed by her mother-in-law. It was later claimed Victoria offered to dress her son’s bride, then backed out.
Despite the rumoured tension that followed, Nicola and Brooklyn continued to represent the family brand for a while. But that support is gone.
In May, Brooklyn and Nicola — who live in a $16million Los Angeles mansion — failed to attend David’s birthday celebrations or even acknowledge his 50th online.
She won’t let it get her down over the festive period as she needs to be strong, especially for Harper, as well as her parents and David’s parents
Insider
Brooklyn also did not wish his mum a happy birthday a month earlier, but posted gushing tributes to Nicola, including the pointed comment: “I always choose you, baby.”
Likewise, he stayed deafeningly silent when David was finally awarded his knighthood in June, and snubbed November’s investiture.
Brooklyn also failed to give a nod to Victoria’s Netflix documentary, Victoria Beckham, which came out in October. That month, she debuted her spring 2026 collection at Paris Fashion Week, again without her eldest son’s backing.
But by all accounts, Brooklyn’s biggest two-fingered salute to his parents had to be his very lavish, very loud, vows renewal in August.
According to insiders, he did not even tell them about the event, which was held at his in-laws’ mega-mansion in New York.
Nicola’s billionaire father Nelson Peltz presided over it, and the bride wore her mother Claudia’s wedding dress. The message was clear: They’ve officially jumped off the Beckham bandwagon.
But Brooklyn’s biggest two-fingered salute to his parents had to be his very lavish, very loud, vows renewal in AugustCredit: InstagramBrooklyn pictured with the Peltz familyCredit: Instagram/brooklynpeltzbeckham
To that end, there have even been whispers in recent weeks that Brooklyn and Nicola — who both go by double-barrelled Peltz-Beckham — are planning to drop the Beckham from their surname.
Nepo baby Brooklyn has long capitalised from his famous family name — and Nicola, who was not that well known before marrying him, has benefitted from it, too.
They don’t need the Beckham name any more and they would like any future babies to be Peltzes
Insider
Her family’s wealth, estimated at $1.7billion, may eclipse the Beckhams’ £500million fortune, but her in-laws’ social cache in showbiz circles has opened myriad doors to the aspiring actress and model.
But now it is feared they are determined to cut ties for good.
‘Ultimate insult’
An insider told Heat magazine: “They both feel their double-barrelled name is associated with the feud and they want to move on.
“They don’t need the Beckham name any more and they would like any future babies to be Peltzes.
“Obviously, it would be the ultimate insult to David and Victoria — they’ve spent nearly 30 years building up Brand Beckham and, if Brooklyn dropped the family name, there would be no going back.
“It feels like he’d be making their current estrangement permanent.”
Cruz’s tried to bridge the divide by sharing throwback snaps on InstagramCredit: Instagram/ @cruzbeckhamThe snap shared by the brother showed Brooklyn with an arm around his youngest sibling on a beach in Brazil when they were littleCredit: Instagram/ @cruzbeckham
Ironically, despite the documentary, plus TV and podcast chats, showing Victoria’s more authentic side, she is having to stay tight-lipped about her personal anguish.
However, amid the turmoil, she has been wowing the US, popping up on late-night talk show Watch What Happens Live and featuring on podcast Call Her Daddy.
The Beckhams famously lived in LA when David played football there but, while well received by the celebrity jet-set, they never fully found their footing, with Victoria still carrying the mantle of a WAG.
Now, though, the US is taking her seriously as a fashion designer, beauty impresario and a pop icon with a wicked sense of humour, which she would no doubt love to celebrate with her whole family.
After Christmas, we are told the Beckhams will head to Bath for Holly Ramsay and Adam Peaty’s wedding on the 27th.
They are long-time pals with the bride’s family — Gordon Ramsay, and his wife Tana, plus their six children. But while the Ramsays were all there to see Brooklyn and Nicola say “I do”, it’s unlikely they’ll return the favour.
The fact Olympian Adam’s mum Caroline is banned from the nuptials amid a fallout will no doubt resonate with David and Victoria.
Still, some Beckham fans reckon there is still hope of a reconciliation. Firstly, Brooklyn’s stocking on his grandma’s fireplace proves that he will always have a place in the family.
Then, Cruz’s memories of the siblings as kids may hint he is mellowing after backing his parents and, along with brother Romeo, unfollowing Brooklyn on Instagram.
He has also lashed out at whispers the row erupted as Romeo was dating Brooklyn’s ex, Kim Turnbull — rumours she strongly denied.
Still, the question remains: Will Brooklyn take his cue and bury the hatchet for good? All signs so far point to a stubbornness that’s set to continue into the new year.
Brooklyn has made it clear that Nicola is his priority and, with her also showing little interest in a reconciliation, Victoria knows rooting for a reunion could be futile.
Then again, there’s always hope of a Christmas miracle.
Victoria’s mum Jackie pictured with a young BrooklynCredit: News Group Newspapers LtdDavid’s mum Sandra left a comment along with a heart emoji under a festive social media post Brooklyn had shared for his own hot sauce brand, Cloud23Credit: instagram/brooklynbeckhamBrooklyn with his grandmother Sandra watching his father during Real Madrid’s victory against Mallorca in the Spanish Super CupCredit: Big Pictures
ANNE-MARIE has vowed to shake things up for her upcoming fourth album – her first since 2023’s Unhealthy.
The Ciao Adios singer told The Sun that she’s determined not to return with a record that’s a copy-and-paste job of her first three albums.
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Anne-Marie has promised her fourth album will shake things up and break from the pastCredit: SplashThe star also revealed she’s turned to longtime friend Ed Sheeran – who co-wrote her 2018 hit 2002 – for advice on juggling being a pop star and a parentCredit: GettyAnne-Marie married rapper Slowthai in 2022 and they share two children togetherCredit: TIKTOK
Speaking backstage at Capital Jingle Bell Ball with Barclaycard, after she put on an intimate gig in Barclaycard’s Out Of The Blue area for lucky fans, Anne-Marie said: “Next year there will be new music.
“I think I need to switch it up a bit… Will I be rapping? Who knows.
She says she’s turned to longtime friend Ed Sheeran – who co-wrote her 2018 hit 2002 – for advice on juggling being a popstar and a parent.
Anne Marie explained: “Be a parent, it’s hard.
“It’s like everyone says.
“It’s the best thing ever and the hardest thing at the same time.
“I think working is definitely hard.
“I find it harder than I thought I would, but they are beautiful little aliens.
“It does make you want more even though you are in hell.”
She continued: “I go to Ed for a lot of advice really.
“About kids but also about everything really.
“Now that we have kids he is like the perfect person to speak to.”
In September Anne-Marie released a teaser of what’s to come with her new track Depressed.
Admitting Christmas time isn’t always easy for people, Anne-Marie said: “I am very aware that people feel alone at this time of the year which makes me sad.
“But I think as long as you get through it and think of the next year and all of your dreams and plans that you want to achieve next year, you will be okay.
“Also just snuggle up on the sofa and watch a movie with some chocolate.
“Just take care of yourself and give yourself some love.
“Next year we start afresh.
“My go-to film at any time of year is Liar Liar with Jim Carey.
“Anything Jim Carey is my go-to.”
Anne-Marie welcomed her son in MayCredit: InstagramAnne-Marie is seen here when she was pregnant with daughter ForeverCredit: Instagram
ONE small village around an hour from Nice transforms into an open-air Christmas scene in the wintertime.
It has the most amount of nativity scenes in France with a dedicated trail to see them all – and it draws in thousands of visitors from around the world.
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The village of Lucéram is 40 minutes north of Nice and transforms into a Christmas sceneCredit: AFPYou can see the nativity scenes until the beginning of JanuaryCredit: YouTube/Travel Enjoy
The medieval village is called Lucéram which is just 15 miles from the coast, but sits up on a rocky hilltop in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region – and it has a reputation for Christmas decorations.
Every year the locals set up around 500 nativity scenes, or as they’re known in French, crèches – this is the most of any place in the country.
Across the village are model replicas of the nativity set around the cobbled streets, at churches, schools, barns and even in the village bread oven.
They can range from miniature scenes on window ledges to life-size displays.
The traditional nativity trail is called Circuit des Crèches, it has been running for nearly two decades and is completely free.
The trail is open every day from 10am to 12.30pm and from 2pm to 5.30pm, with afternoon-only opening on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.
This year Lucéram even has a nighttime candlelit trail on Friday 19 December.
And there are two Christmas markets on two Sundays – December 14 and 21.
If you want a glimpse of the decorations then you’ll want to head out soon as the trail concludes on January 4, 2026.
The village sits on a hilltop and isn’t just pretty thanks to its Christmas scenes.
This year there are special nighttime candlelit trails to see the decorationsCredit: AFPLocals decorate their window ledges with tiny crèchesCredit: AFP
Lucéram has retained it’s medieval charm with stone houses that have terracotta-tiled roofs and vaulted passageways.
Also in the village are two chapels with impressive wall murals and anold olive oil mill.
Another popular activity is hiking to the nearby Vallée des Merveilles.
Brits can get to Lucéram by flying to Nice, a route which is offered by airlines like British Airways and easyJet.
From there, Lucéram can be reached in under 40 minutes by car or just over an hour on public transport.
This tiny European town is what people describe as a real-life Disney village…
With brightly coloured timber houses and window boxes full of flowers, Riquewihr inFrancehas been compared to villages fromDisneyfilms.
Riquewihr is a village in the Alsace region known for having a blend of French and German culture resulting in picture perfect communes.
These have half-timbered houses, cobblestone streets, and vineyards.
Unlike surrounding towns like Colmar, Riquewihr is much quieter when it comes to high season.
While it doesn’t have the canals that Colmar does, the town of Riquewihr has been called just as beautiful by visitors.
One visitors wrote on Tripadvisor: “This town is so cute you’ll think it was made for a Disney movie. we were here at Christmas and it gets EVEN CUTER with the decorations. you won’t believe it. i think it’s the cutest of all the Alsatian towns.”
Another added: “Picturesque would be an understatement. It’s a fairy tale village that doesn’t seem real.”
You’ll find the town between the Vosges mountains and the Alsatian vineyards, which only adds to its beauty.
Bed bugs can be found in various accommodations, and if you bring them back into your home it will swiftly become a nightmare. Here’s expert advice on avoiding an infestation
Bed bugs can lurk in mattresses(Image: Getty)
Millions of Brits are embarking on their Christmas getaways. Whether you’re jetting off abroad or visiting relatives across the UK, there’s one crucial thing you must bear in mind.
Bed bugs can hide virtually anywhere, and if you inadvertently transport them back to your house, it will rapidly turn into a living hell. These pesky bugs are notoriously difficult to eliminate once they’ve invaded your property and frequently require costly professional extermination services.
Your best defence is preventing an invasion before it takes hold.
The specialists at Thermopest have revealed their essential strategies for maintaining a bed bug-free household.
Upon arrival at your accommodation, the initial step involves conducting a meticulous examination, reports the Express.
James Rhoades from Thermopest advised: “Don’t place your luggage on the bed as soon as you arrive.
“First, inspect the mattress by pulling back the sheets and checking the seams and corners for dark spots. Also check the headboard and any upholstered furniture for signs of activity.”
Should you discover any evidence of bed bugs, demand alternative accommodation straight away and insist on a room positioned as far from the contaminated zone as feasible.
According to James, suitcases represent one of the simplest methods for transporting bed bugs back to your residence. He suggests keeping your belongings away from fabric surfaces.
He explained: “Store it on a metal rack, bed bugs struggle to climb smooth surfaces. Avoid placing bags on the floor or bed where they might be hiding.
“Bed bugs find it harder to get onto hard surfaces, so opt for hard-case luggage rather than a fabric one.
“If possible, keep your luggage closed or zipped up at all times, or use large plastic bags to seal your luggage throughout your stay.”
These pesky critters also have a tendency to burrow into clothing, making it essential to safeguard your garments as well.
James explained: “Bed bugs tend to gravitate towards the scent of humans, so keep your worn/dirty clothes in a separate plastic bag until you can wash them.
“Don’t leave your clothes out, especially if you suspect bed bugs, try keeping them in vacuum-sealed bags during your trip to prevent them from getting in.”
Upon returning home, thoroughly examine your luggage for any telltale signs of bed bugs to avoid bringing an infestation into your house.
James advised: “Unpack everything, directly into the washing machine and run a hot wash.
“Inspect your suitcase inside and out, especially pockets, seams and linings, for dark spots, shed skins or live bugs. Frequent travellers should make this part of their routine to catch infestations early.”
With Christmas just around the corner, it’s going to be a busy time in the Radford household as mum-of-22 Sue has opened up about festive dinner plans
Joe Crutchley Screen Time Reporter
10:45, 18 Dec 2025
22 Kids and Counting Sue Radford’s lavish Christmas food shop including 60 Yorkshires(Image: Lion TV)
22 Kids and Counting star Sue Radford has revealed her Christmas food shop and fans are floored.
The proud mama of 22 children, Sue became a household name with the rest of the family back in 2012, when she let cameras into her home with husband Noel for the very first time.
Sue and Noel are parents to Christopher, Sophie, Chloe, Jack, Daniel, Luke, Millie, Katie, James, Ellie and Aimee, as well as Josh, Max, Tillie, Oscar, Casper, Alfie, stillborn in 2014, Hallie, Phoebe, Archie Bonnie and Heidie.
Since shooting to fame over 10 years ago, the Morecambe-based family have rarely remained off screens, with the latest series of Channel 5’s 22 Kids and Counting airing earlier this year.
And with Christmas just around the corner, it’s fair to say it’s going to be a busy time in the Radford household. In a clip from the latest episode, Sue revealed that she is hosting Christmas dinner for her entire family. And this includes Father Chloe, her partner Jake and their two-year-old daughter Mila.
During the instalment, Sue headed to her local Asda to stock up on food for her large family in the festive season. Piling her trolley high with groceries Sue said: “We’ve got pigs in blankets, so there’s 60 there.”
Sue added: “We’ve got 3kg of Brussels sprouts. I absolutely hate Brussels sprouts, but everybody else loves them.” She then picked up 4kg of carrots, 7.5k of potatoes and with it being Christmas, Sue stocked up on two large turkeys. Heading to the freezer aisle, Sue said: “Think I’ll probably try and get about 60 Yorkshires.”
Reacting to Sue’s food shop, one person on Facebook said: “I would just do beans on toast, would stress me out.” A second added: “Me too imagine cooking for them all, be my worst nightmare.” A third said: “So much food.” Another penned: “I can’t imagine cooking all that.”
It comes after Sue and Noel introduced their new four-legged family member in October – and fans were left gushing over the update.
Taking to their joint Instagram, the pair shared several photos of their adorable new dog. In the caption, they wrote: “Hi everyone I’m Mavie I’m a cream long-haired miniature Dachshund I’m settling in really well and everyone loves me.”
Animal lovers Sue and Noel have owned several dogs over the years. They have a border collie Lola, three French bulldogs Bluebell, Ivy and Mabel, and three miniature dachshunds Cookie, Minnie and Dolly.
While I continue on my journey to achieve Christmas nirvana by exploring the plethora of festive markets around Great Britain, there’s one beloved Christmas market that I’m just not a fan of.
I’ve never met a Christmas market I didn’t like — till I met this one.(Image: Getty Images)
Going to Christmas markets is like an Olympic sport, and I, for one, am a self-proclaimed gold medallist.
I tend to find myself coming alive in the last two months of the year, as my hot chocolate-addled brain looks for its next fix complemented by Christmas lights and cheesy music. As Christmas chaos tightens its vice-like grip around unsuspecting UK residents, scores of us find ourselves Googling the million-dollar question: ‘Best Christmas markets in the UK?’
While I continue on my journey to achieve Christmas nirvana by exploring the plethora of festive markets around Great Britain, there’s one beloved Christmas market that I’m just not a fan of. Let’s just say — I’ve never met a Christmas market I didn’t like. Till I met the Southbank Christmas Market, that is.
While ‘absolutely hated’ is a strong phrase, ‘generally disappointed’ is not. And that’s how I felt about London’s Southbank Centre Winter Market. After hearing loads of complimentary things about it from my friends (and the internet) for ages, I decided to bundle up one fine Thursday evening and head on over to the ‘magical Christmas market on the River Thames’.
When I say the market ended before it started, I am not exaggerating. Southbank’s famed Christmas market had some seven odd stalls when I last visited (okay yes, I am exaggerating — it’s called a creative licence, look it up). And no, I refuse to add the scores of restaurants down the road — which earnestly dress themselves up in festive cheer and provide a jolly good time to visitors — to the count. I’m talking about the actual Southbank Christmas market, which actually is really quite tiny. I visited the market for the first (and last) time with my partner and our friend — all of us popping our Southbank Christmas Market cherry at the same time — and, as it goes with every ‘first-time’ virginity-losing story, we were all left wondering: is this it?
Having made the (never-ending) trek from East London, upon arriving, we felt like we were being Punk’d. Where were the rows of food and drink stalls? The gamut of overpriced souvenirs designed to entrap the unsuspecting tourist? The tat passing off as ‘must-haves’ this fashion cycle? It felt like someone clocked all the happiness Christmas markets brought to seasonally depressed individuals — and decided to suck every drop of joy straight out of them.
Because what’s the point of setting up a Christmas market if you can’t cause customers utter confusion over which bratwurst stall to go for? Why couldn’t I get four different shops selling the exact same patterned ceramic bowl and evil eye hangings at grossly varying price points? What is the point of this life, if I don’t buy mulled wine from 5 different stalls for a thousand million pounds each, as I happily hand them over all of my life’s savings?
There’s no point. And that’s why you won’t see me returning to the Southbank Christmas Market anytime soon. Except this Friday, because a spirited discussion with my colleagues before writing this article has already convinced me that I need to give it another shot (of overpriced Baileys, woohoo).
WHEN Helen Flanagan and Scott Sinclair split after 13 years, they vowed to keep things amicable for the sake of their young kids.
But it was not long before the dynamic of the celebrity couple’s co-parenting soon began to show signs of strain.
Helen Flanagan raged when she spotted photos of ex Scott Sinclair living the high life at the Grand Prix in Abu Dhabi, skipping their four-year-old son’s Christmas nativityCredit: GettyHelen lashed out online: ‘You really are a piece of s***,”’ sharing Scott’s Instagram postCredit: instagram/@hjgflanaganThe former couple share daughters Matilda, ten, Delilah, seven and four-year-old CharlieCredit: instagram/hjgflanagan
The former Corrie actress blamed petty squabbles and communication issues, yet still remained tight-lipped about her ex.
But overnight, tensions between the pair appear to have hit DEFCON 1.
Helen, 35, flipped her lid when she spotted photos of Scott, 36, living the high life at the Grand Prix in Abu Dhabi, skipping their four-year-old son’s Christmas nativity play.
Lashing out online at the retired Bristol Rovers footballer, she raged: “You really are a piece of s**t,” sharing Scott’s Instagram post.
“How dare you not turn up to Charlie’s nativity,” she added.
Standing in front of a huge F1 sign, he posed gleefully, tagging the post “What a weekend — Abu Dhabi F1.” He added: “Happy Days, blurry nights.”
Meanwhile, Helen shared a sweet snap of her cuddling their young son, captioning it: “Loved Charlie’s nativity. My star, my heartbeat.”
But when she spotted Scott’s jet- setting post, her blood boiled.
Now sources have told The Sun that Helen’s ex’s decision to skip Charlie’s school performance was just the tip of the iceberg — a culmination of bad behaviour that has left the telly star fuming.
The former couple share daughters Matilda, ten, Delilah, seven, and four-year-old son Charlie.
Yesterday Helen was spotted looking stony-faced while heading to her latest panto performance in Liverpool, where she is starring as The Wicked Queen in a production of Snow White.
A pal told The Sun: “Helen’s livid with Scott’s behaviour. He’s thinking about himself, not his children.
“She said, ‘I’m done letting him treat his family like this’. At the end of the day Helen is the mother of his kids. He needs to show more respect.”
Another pal said: “Helen is working full-time at the moment in panto so was expecting Scott to cover the nativity and go for her, as she has a lot on her plate and he is retired.
“When he didn’t bother, she wasn’t happy and took to her social media to vent her frustration and make a point.
“Their relationship is difficult at times — co-parenting is hard.”
Boys’ trips
Meanwhile another source close to the couple blames newly single Scott for embracing his “Hot Boy Winter” moment, leaving his family to suffer.
“Ever since Scott became single again things started to go downhill,” the source said.
“It’s been an incredibly testing few months for Helen, who feels like she is busting a gut and Scott doesn’t seem to get it.
A source close to the couple blames newly single Scott for embracing his ‘Hot Boy Winter’ moment, above the retired Bristol Rovers footballer shares a 2024 holiday on InstagramCredit: InstagramHelen and Scott split after 13 years, and had vowed to keep things amicable for their young kidsCredit: Getty
Last year The Sun told how Scott was dating family friend Lauren Davies, 32, who is from his home city of Bath.
Things were going well up until the start of this year, when they are said to have decided they were better off as friends.
The source said: “Helen really liked Lauren and thought she was really good for Scotty.
You really are a piece of s***. How dare you not turn up to Charlie’s nativity
Helen on Instagram
“She has great values and felt it was important that Scott sees his kids and she wanted everyone to get along.
“But since their split, Scott hasn’t been present. He is constantly showing off his wealth online — with his extravagant boys’ trips. It’s a bit of a kick in the teeth.”
According to pals, tensions between Helen and Scott are so bad that the pair have blocked each other on WhatsApp, only communicating through family members.
The Sun also understands Scott wants to sell the £1.5million family home near Bolton and move Helen and the kids into a smaller property.
The eight-bedroom house went on the market in June, but Helen is standing firm. One pal said: “Scott is trying to sell the family home, but Helen has moved six times since Matilda was born.
“And because she is refusing to uproot the children, he’s stopped some of the money he was giving her for the kids. She’s fuming.
Tensions between Helen and Scott are so bad that the pair have blocked each other on WhatsApp and only communicate through family membersCredit: Kenny Ramsay – The Sun GlasgowTo make matters worse he is having the children for Christmas this year, which is another blow, said a sourceCredit: Instagram
“The house is right next to her mum and dad, who take care of the kids while Helen works.
“Scott’s retired so he could have them, but he’s swanning around in Dubai and London and flashing it all over Instagram.
“At the same time he is claiming he can’t afford to give her the money, but he goes and blows £20,000 on the F1.”
Helen’s livid with Scott’s behaviour. He’s thinking about himself, not his children
A pal
The pal said Christmas will be particularly hard for Helen without her kids.
They said: “She is working full-time at the panto and dealing with the kids, with no help from Scott.
“Then he’ll have them at Christmas and post it all over Instagram, claiming to be dad of the year. He’s picking and choosing when he wants to help, but parenting doesn’t work like that.
“Helen has supported him for his whole football career and moved all over the country, but she’s adamant that she doesn’t want to uproot the kids and cause more disruption in their lives.”
Last month we revealed she was abroad filming scenes — and will not be holding back when it comes to getting what she wants.
Number blocked
It is not the first time the couple’s co-parenting relation- ship has been tested, with Helen previously saying Scott had her number blocked on his phone.
In October 2024 she told a podcast: “I’m on block at the moment on Scott’s phone. I really am. I’m on block.” However, she later said that the couple were on speaking terms so that they could co-parent their brood.
To make matters worse he is having the children for Christmas this year, which is another blow
Source
But in recent months things appear to have taken a turn again, as Helen hinted at trouble.
Earlier this month she told The Sun: “He lives in Somerset and I live in Lancashire. So we live so far away from each other, which is really difficult when you’ve got three young children.
“I hate calling it co-parenting because I don’t really feel like a co-parent, to be honest with you.”
Reflecting on their split in 2024, Helen told The Sun: “It was a mutual decision and personally, I felt as a mum that this was the best thing for my children.
“I want them to see healthy relationships and to be in healthy environments. I think if you’re unhappy then that projects on to them.”
She added: “I love Scott and I know that he loves me, but I suppose we just don’t like each other very much at the moment.
“We don’t really speak and there’s no point in pretending that we’re the best of friends when we’re not.”
Both Helen and Scott were approached for comment.
Helen during a panto performance in Liverpool, where she is starring as The Wicked Queen in a production of Snow WhiteCredit: Splash
FASHIONISTA Gwen Stefani has shown her fans how to slay Christmas style.
Gwen, 56, performed in front of a Disneyland castle in a sneak peek of her Christmas Day TV special in a tiny dress and fur.
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Gwen Stefani, 56, in tiny white dress as she performs at Disneyland for Christmas special.Credit: Instagram/gwenstefaniGwen Stefani performing a cheeky twirl in a tiny winter white dress at Disneyland.Credit: Instagram/gwenstefani
She was dressed in head-to-toe winter white, including a cropped fur jacket and sky-high platform boots.
The chic outfit also included a tiny tiered white skirt which exposed itty bitty lace shorts underneath.
In the post, the crooner told fans to “tune in Christmas morning,” for the Sleeping Beauty’s Castle for Disney Parks Magical Christmas Day Parade.
Fans expressed their excitement for the Christmas concert in the comments on Instagram.
Gwen Stefani singing at Disneyland for Christmas special.Credit: Instagram/gwenstefaniBlake Shelton and Gwen Stefani attending the 27th Annual Keep Memory Alive Power of Love Gala benefit.Credit: GettyPower couple Blake Shelton and Gwen Stefani backstage at the 59th Academy of Country Music Awards.Credit: Getty
