Christmas

This Christmas Eve, slide into one of the wooden booths at chef-owner Keith Corbin’s sunlit restaurant in West Adams or order the restaurant’s signature California soul plates to complete your holiday spread at home. The regular menu with black-eyed pea fritters, smoked chicken and sausage gumbo and fried chicken with house-made Fresno hot sauce will be available for dine-in alongside the full beverage menu, with a wine list that highlights BIPOC and women producers, and cocktails including a creative limoncello martini. For those who prefer to enjoy the soulful spread at home, choices include smoked honey butter ham and house-smoked brisket with smoked apple barbecue sauce as mains; sides like cornbread bites, mac and cheese and brown-buttered candied yams; and banana pudding and brown-butter chocolate chip cookies for dessert. Catering orders must be placed online by Dec. 21 and will be available for pickup or delivery on Christmas Eve. Last-minute Christmas Eve takeout orders can also be placed via GrubHub. Adams Wine Shop, the restaurant’s neighboring bottle shop, will be open on Christmas Eve for those who need a last-minute host gift, with mulled wine kits available for purchase.

If you’re looking for the best Christmas market to visit this month then the good news is Hoppa has done the research for you and worked out the cheapest place to get into the Christmas spirit.

The airport transfer specialists have been analysing dozens of European winter getaway destinations, looking at the average cost of accommodation, reading the Tripadvisor reviews and adding up the price of a pint.

And the European spot that is the most cheap and cheerful this Christmas is…Prague! I must say I have to agree with them as I was lucky enough to travel to the picturesque city of Prague two years ago in the run up to Christmas and it probably is the most Chrismassy place I’ve been to.

With its stunning buildings, cobblestone streets, and historic Old Town Square, Prague is a pretty great place to visit all year round – especially in December when the Christmas lights are twinkling and locals are chanting traditional Czech carols.

READ MORE: Christmas market resembles Beauty and the Beast with cobbled lanes and £2 mulled wine

It has an iconic Gothic Church, a 20-Metre Christmas tree and is circled by dozens of wooden chalets selling everything from Trdelník (chimney cake) to Czech Marionettes (hand painted ornaments) and puppets.

And alongside a very good-looking Christmas market, you can expect to find a rather impressive 4,811 attractions to keep you amused. Scoring 7.5 out of 10, the average cost of a 3-star hotel in Prague is just £74 and the average cost of a pint is £2.17 according to secretldn.com

There are also some great restaurants where you can sit down and enjoy very reasonably priced food and drink while you people watch. You can expect to pay around 250-400 CZK (approx. £8 to £14) for a dinner with drinks, with street food being even cheaper.

And there’s so much choice – from classic dishes like Goulash, Svíčková (beef in cream sauce) or Vepřo knedlo zelo (pork, dumplings, sauerkraut) to mulled wine and roasted nuts.

In fact, the Christmas market is so picture-perfect, it’s been named the most photographed Christmas market in Europe, according to various media outlets and Prague City Tourism.

There’s still plenty of time to visit – the market runs annually from late November through early January, transforming the square into a fairy-tale scene dominated by the soaring Gothic towers of Týn Church and the Astronomical Clock.

One of the best things is that it might only be a two-hour flight from the UK but once your feet firmly land in the Old Town Square, you feel like you’ve stepped into the past. And you can get there for as little as £27 return (if you book it far enough in advance) leaving plenty leftover for a few £2 pints of Czech lager.

The 10 most affordable European winter getaway destinations:

1. Prague, Czech Republic
2. Bansko, Bulgaria
3. Sofia, Bulgaria
4. Budapest, Hungary
5. Tallinn, Estonia
6. Kraków, Poland
7. Tirana, Albania
8. Belgrade, Serbia
9. Bratislava, Slovakia
10. Vilnius, Lithuania

READ MORE: Where to shop Amanda Holden’s satin Christmas pyjamas that fans are ‘obsessed’ with

A MAJOR bridge used by around 20,000 drivers every day is set to be demolished on Christmas Day.

The Winterstoke Road Bridge in Weston-super-Mare, Somerset, was built during the Second World War to serve aircraft factories and now sits in the heart of the town’s suburbs.

The 80-year-old structure crosses the busy Exeter to Bristol railway line and has reached the end of its life.

It is already closed for 18 months while a replacement is constructed.

North Somerset Council has confirmed the demolition will take place on December 25 – the only day of the year when no trains run in the UK, allowing work to be carried out without disrupting rail services.

Council leader Mike Bell said: “Winterstoke Road Bridge has been a mainstay throughout the lives of Weston residents, first in its integral role in our aviation history, then later serving homes and businesses across the area.

“In recent years the bridge has enabled around 20,000 journeys each day, testament to the part it plays in our local transport network.

“It is a crucial route, which is why it’s important that the ageing bridge is replaced with one built to last for the next 120 years.

Replacing Winterstoke Road Bridge represents a major long-term investment in local infrastructure, helping to protect and increase road capacity while strengthening the network for future growth.

The new bridge will also encourage walking and cycling and remove existing weight limits for heavier vehicles like buses.

The bridge’s wartime origins date back to 1940 when the RAF requisitioned Weston Airfield as the Battle of Britain raged overhead.

After Winston Churchill created the Ministry of Aircraft Production, Oldmixon became one of three local sites chosen to expand aircraft manufacturing.

In 1941, the first Bristol Beaufighter rolled out of the factory and the Winterstoke Road Bridge was built so workers could reach the site more quickly.

After the war, the bridge opened to the public as the area switched from building fighter planes to producing prefabricated aluminium homes to help tackle the housing shortage.

Aviation remained a major part of the local economy for many years, including aircraft maintenance and Westland Helicopters.

North Somerset Heritage Champion John Crockford-Hawley said:
“The original Winterstoke Road Bridge is a monument to the long-standing pride that our area has in local aviation history, as well as our collective appreciation for the role that the RAF has played.

“Though we must now say goodbye to the historic structure and make way for a new bridge, the wartime stories of Winterstoke Road, the factories and the iconic Bristol Beaufighter will live on in the pages of our rich local history.”

The bridge closed to traffic in November and is not expected to reopen until 2027.

A temporary footbridge has been installed for pedestrians and cyclists, but drivers must follow a diversion via Flowerdown Bridge.

North Somerset Council has warned that the Airport and Runway roundabouts will be “extra busy” during the works.

The new 60-metre bridge will weigh more than 2,000 tonnes and will be supported by 24 deep steel-cased concrete piles drilled 35 metres into stable mudstone to stop it sinking into Somerset’s soft ground.

Due to tight space on site, contractors can only complete one pile every other day.

Utility cables and gas and water mains beneath the bridge will be diverted first. The replacement structure will then be built off site in sections and lifted into place by crane.

WHEN it comes to Christmas dinners, Brits take it very seriously, from getting the right amount of crunch on roast potatoes to whether Yorkshire puddings belong on the plate.

So when I found out that the luxury department store Harrods and the bargain pub chain Wetherspoons both offer festive dinners for the same price, I had to go out and see exactly which was better.

Each dinner costs £15, and I took everything into account from initial impressions to taste and texture to value for money.

I thought I’d start on a high, by heading to Harrods in the heart of London for the first of the two options in my Christmas dinner taste test.

I’d been teased by social media posts about just how good their Christmas Dinner Box is, seeing influencers tucking into thick slices of turkey crown with lashings of gravy and hot cauliflower cheese.

It’s Christmas time so naturally the shop was heaving with both tourists and the rich regular shoppers, so I make a swift beeline to the Food Hall.

Thankfully there’s an easy way to find the roast dinner – follow your nose and look for the spinning chickens on the Rotisserie Counter.

You’ll then see a suited and booted staff member whose job it is to gate-keep the long queue, which took 20 minutes to complete on my visit.

My meal was a tad sloppily-placed into a cardboard lunchbox. But you can’t deny that for just £15, it’s huge.

It comes with two thick turkey slices, three cuttings of ham, eight roast potatoes, one stuffing ball wrapped in bacon and sage, a long pig in a blanket, cauliflower cheese, cranberry sauce and a splash of meat gravy.

With a smile, I was handed over my weighty dinner, but it came with a new challenge; where to eat it.

Unlike Wetherspoons, Harrods offers no seating, so having to find somewhere to eat it before it got cold was slightly frustrating.

Faced with eating my lunch standing on a busy London street, I had to high-tail it back on the tub to my the office to dig in.

I started with the star of the show -the turkey. And I was very impressed with out moist it was , after all, we’ve all tucked into a home-cooked Christmas dinner that’s much too dry.

The marmalade-glazed ham was lovely too, although it was quite fatty along the side. But once that was cut away, the meat itself was soft, nicely flavoured and not too salty.

Of course no Christmas dinner is complete without roast potatoes and these had a great herby flavour.

They weren’t as crisp as I’d like, probably because they’d been sitting underneath the meat while I travelled o the tub, but you couldn’t argue with the fluffiness inside.

The stuffing ball was generously sized and, in my opinion, fancy. It came wrapped in bacon and a whole sage leaf; nothing like I’ve made from the Paxo box at home.

The cauliflower cheese is a great addition as everything sits on the creamy surface, not to mention it was delicious.

There wasn’t a lot of gravy, but I’m sure that if I’d asked for another ladle full they wouldn’t have said no.

And love it or hate it, I had cranberry sauce on my dinner. Not a lot, but enough for that sweet flavour and, as you might have guessed as it’s Harrods, was full of actual whole cranberries. 

However, how does it compare to its Wetherspoons rival, charging the same amount?

My next stop was to The Pommelers Rest Wetherspoons on Tower Bridge Road in London.

The standard price for ‘sliced turkey breast and winter vegetables’ Christmas dinner is £14.99 – however in London you pay an extra £1, so costs £15.99, including a soft drink.

It’s detailed as having four turkey slices, along with pork, sage and onion stuffing, roasted Chantenay carrots and parsnips, Maris Piper mash, two pigs-in-blankets, peas, cranberry sauce and gravy, as well as a soft drink.

It doesn’t sound too bad, right?

I will say, the huge portion on the classic Wetherspoons blue and white patterned plate was much bigger than the Harrods version, so it’s great if you have a hearty appetite.

But that’s where the positives ended. It had thin slices of turkey, of which I only counted three rather than the promised four.

Not only did the potato mash have a crusty skin on the top, but its a sacrilege to have mash rather than roasties.

There were two tiny pigs in blankets, two small carrots, some cubed parsnips (which together I doubt made one whole one) and a flurry of green peas.

Even the gravy was a let down, tasting like it was made from granules.

The cranberry sauce came in a pot on the side which I appreciated – but when it came to taste it was very artificial and packed with sugar.

Maybe it wouldn’t have felt too dissappointing if I hadn’t already tried the Harrods alternative.

But it didn’t feel like the usual great value for money that you get from Wetherspoons meal deals.

The only way Wetherspoons could trump Harrods is the fact that it has seating, and was a much bigger serving.

But I’d rather be standing on a busy London road, eating my lunch from a takeaway box than tucking into the festive dinner at a table in a warm pub.

For more on taste tests, Sun Travel checked out the UK’s best ice cream shop which serves Aperol, Pimms & cornflake scoops.

And Sun Travel also tasted the new viral Dubai chocolate ice cream served at a top London attraction – it was a huge disappointment.

THE last time Britain had a white Christmas was 15 years ago – and its unlikely to be one this year either.

But there is one way of guaranteeing one in the UK thanks to a holiday lodge that has a sneaky way to make sure you have snow.

You can get festive quite easily with cosy log fires, a cup of mulled wine, and a classic Christmas dinner.

But there’s one thing that would make it that extra special – a blanket of snow outside.

And Holiday Lodges have announced a stay that will actually guarantee snow – thanks to hidden snow machines throughout.

Tucked away in the heart of Wales is its White Christmas Lodge where in December guests will wake up to snow outside.

The description reads: “From the moment you arrive, you’ll step into a winter wonderland. Fully decked out in Christmassy decor and covered in snow”.

The lodge sleeps up to eight people and has its own hot tub, games room, cosy living and dining room along with icy lake views and you can stay there from £350 per night.

For further festivities, you can add a “decorate-your-own tree” experience or a festive wreath-making class.

In the evening, the kitchen is full-kitted out so you can relax with a cup of hot chocolate, mulled wine or spiced cider.

Not to mention it’s the perfect place to watch movies like Home Alone, Elf and for classic fans, White Christmas.

There might even be a special visit from Santa himself.

The following morning you’ll actually get to see snow falling outside (thanks to the hidden snow machines too).

The lodge has captured attention on social media too. TikTok‘s @_miawootoon said “I feel like it would be the most incredible experience in the world to have a white Christmas – why hasn’t it been done before?”.

@alexandratealeaf added “it looks like it’s straight out of a Christmas movie”.

More details are yet to be announced and the lodge isn’t available for booking quite yet.

But if you’re interested in a stay at the White Christmas Lodge next tear then head here to register your interest at holidaylodges.co.uk.   

For more on Christmas, check out the popular UK attraction with the tallest Christmas tree in the WORLD – and they need a crane to decorate it.

And here are 15 unusual places to see Santa this Christmas from underground mines to water attractions.

Travel experts say it’s not too late to book a Christmas getaway and save money as you can cut costs by up to 24% on flights

With Christmas on the horizon, families and solo travellers might fancy ditching the shopping and planning to jet off on a festive break instead. While the countdown is well and truly on and holiday costs are starting to climb, travel experts reckon there’s still an opportunity to snap up a bargain getaway whilst keeping costs down.

Stacey Hamilton, a travel expert at Private Tours England, reckons a brief window in early December presents the prime opportunity for securing an affordable Christmas escape. Even better news – that golden window is now open.

It’s a widespread rumour that December flights come with eye-watering price tags, but fresh research reveals a surprising price drop in the weeks leading up to the festive period, reports the Express.

According to Stacey, the most budget-friendly booking period for Christmas 2025 falls between December 2 and December 17 – a timeframe she claims most holidaymakers completely ignore.

She explained: “People tend to check prices very early or extremely last-minute, but they overlook this eight-to-23-day window where airlines often reduce fares to fill remaining seats. If you want Christmas savings, this is the period you need to keep your eye on.”

What’s the most cost-effective day to secure a Christmas holiday?

Within this sweet spot, Stacey highlighted two particular standout dates: Sunday, December 7 and 14, 2025. She revealed that Sundays consistently deliver below-average prices for both UK and overseas travel, with this pattern being particularly pronounced during the fortnight preceding Christmas.

She said: “Booking on a Sunday is one of the simplest ways to save. In many cases, travellers can cut costs by up to 24% without changing their destination or travel dates.”

Once you’ve secured your booking, Stacey suggests the next move is to pick the right day to jet off. For Christmas 2025, she recommends considering Friday December 12 and 19, two dates that consistently fall within a lower-demand period.

She said: “Flying on a Friday just before the peak Christmas travel week can cut your fare significantly. The 12th and 19th sit at that ideal point where demand hasn’t yet hit its highest level. They’re brilliant for keeping costs down without compromising on dates.”

However, she cautioned that the price rapidly shifts after December 17. She warned: “Once you get inside the final week before Christmas, most airlines increase fares in line with demand.

“Christmas 2025 falls on a Thursday, so that final weekend is going to be extremely busy. If you wait until then, you’ll almost certainly pay more.”

A wet Sunday evening turned into a joyous 90-minute stroll through stunning light displays, interactive installations and ethereal music at this beloved festive attraction

Embracing the Christmas spirit can be a bit of a challenge when you’re penning festive articles from September onwards. However, this past weekend, I decided to shelve my inner Grinch and head out into the chilly, drizzly Sunday in Cardiff to experience Christmas at Bute Park.

This event, now in its fifth year, is a light trail that has previously brought me joy. I must confess, my excitement for the installation, nestled in Cardiff’s beautiful city centre park beloved by locals and tourists alike, did start to fade after the first few years.

I found myself pondering, ‘How much can a light display in a park change year after year?’ While I still believe the most curmudgeonly of Grinches might agree with me, my visit to Christmas at Bute Park 2025 rekindled my yuletide cheer, reports Wales Online.

So last year, I opted out of the mile-long amble along the path that snakes through Cardiff’s verdant heart. I simply wasn’t feeling it. Fast forward to 2025, and the opportunity presented itself again. Let me tell you, I’m chuffed I seized it.

It was a delightful 90-minute journey that began in the rain, offered us a bit more precipitation, and an array of displays, interactive elements, and mesmerising light shows synchronised with hauntingly beautiful music that genuinely brightened my day.

The journey encompassed the twirling, sparkling fountains, Christmas Cascades, and Bubblicious – an interactive row of giant cylinders radiating neon colours that we all took turns tapping to select our preferred hue.

We encountered a neon grove and Dancing Dandelions – bursts of colour illuminating the gently swaying trees on a dark autumn evening.

Two installations by Welsh artists – Abercynon’s Ruby June Walker and Cardiff’s Patrick Richards – were truly stunning. Ruby’s Golau y Gaeaf (Winter’s Light) was a standout gothic window showcasing the traditions and symbols of a Welsh Christmas, including Mari Lwyd and Sion Corn.

It added a touch of folklore to the event, alongside one of my favourite two installations – the dragon, but more on that shortly.

Patrick’s Annwyl Siôn Corn (Dear Father Christmas) was a magical post box encircled by floating letters, inspired by children penning their wish lists to Father Christmas – a captivating sight amidst the natural surroundings.

The light installations that captivated me the most, made me marvel the most – allowed me to lose myself in the moment, were the Water Willows, lights cascading down the towering willow trees and dripping off their weeping branches. The sporadic specks of colourful lights transformed into a wave of colour, all synchronised with subtle, ethereal classical music.

As a die-hard Stranger Things fan, I was captivated by the enchanting lights and mystical aura of the willow stop. If I had a tree and some spare cash for the electricity bill, I’d love to recreate this spectacle in my own garden.

I’ve replayed the video of the Water Willows multiple times. Adding a dash of elegance were the chandeliers at Crystal Avenue – when viewed head-on, they resemble a massive snowflake. Simply stunning.

Walking through Delilah Ddraig’s lair, the ground was speckled with soft, glowing red-orange lights, casting a delightfully eerie glow on the final few stops before we ventured into the night.

It was an evening filled with festive cheer in the great outdoors. There’s something special about feeling raindrops on your face, tucking into a generous pot of cinnamon apple and pear crumble with custard, and witnessing the unbridled excitement of a thrilled six-year-old.

While not everyone may have a little one to accompany them, I believe those carrying a sense of wonder will thoroughly enjoy their visit to Christmas at Bute Park, regardless of their company.

Christmas at Bute Park is open until 31 December. For more details, including ticket purchases and information on inclusive evenings, visit www.christmasatbutepark.com.

The beloved 2003 Christmas film that became a box office smash and stars some of Britain’s most famous actors airs on ITV2 tonight for the perfect festive night in

Initially launched in 2003, this beloved film has cemented its status as a seasonal must-watch, drawing audiences back year after year for repeat viewings. Tonight, ITV provides the perfect opportunity for a cosy festive evening in with this Christmas classic.

Both written and helmed by British cinema icon Richard Curtis, Love Actually perfectly encapsulates the essence of a distinctly British Christmas.

The production boasts an impressive ensemble cast, featuring several actors who have collaborated with Curtis on multiple occasions, most notably Hugh Grant.

Set predominantly in London, the narrative weaves through diverse expressions of love across multiple storylines – spanning bereavement and first romance to unreturned affection, matrimony, and workplace attraction, delivering a comprehensive emotional spectrum.

These universally relatable themes consistently draw audiences back year after year, sparking ongoing discussions across social media platforms.

A dedicated Reddit thread about the movie reveals countless viewer opinions, with many confessing to multiple viewings. One fan declared, “Freaking love it; have to watch it every Christmas season. Nothing will ever make me hate this movie.”

Another enthusiast proclaimed, “Literally the most iconic rom-com of all time. I absolutely love watching it every year. It’s not the greatest movie, but it is so comforting, and I love the entire cast. I can’t not watch this movie.”

The movie kicks off six weeks before Christmas and tracks these characters’ journeys in a weekly build-up to the festive season. We witness the interconnected stories of these families and couples across London, as many dive into fresh romantic adventures, ranging from a schoolboy’s innocent infatuation to a workplace liaison, and even the newly appointed Prime Minister developing feelings for a member of his team.

This stellar ensemble features the talents of Hugh Grant, Colin Firth, Emma Thompson, and the late, beloved Alan Rickman. The cast also features Thomas Brodie-Sangster as a child actor, portraying Liam Neeson’s character’s stepson. Additionally, we see performances from Keira Knightley and Billy Nighy in this quintessentially British star-studded mix.

Numerous memorable quotes and moments have become embedded in pop culture and remain widely referenced to this day. One fan highlights a particular sequence, noting: “I think about/watch that montage where Andrew Lincoln is walking around the city distraught while Dido plays in the background at least once a month.”

Another enthusiast shared: “I love it! It’s definitely a Christmas tradition for me, and watching Hugh Grant dance to Jump For My Love lives in my head rent-free.”

A different viewer commented: “It’s really corny. I can see it being a comfort movie for lots of people.” Meanwhile, someone else offered a more sceptical take: “I enjoy the movie, but it’s one I can’t think too hard about, because then I end up focusing on just how unhealthy and doomed all the relationships actually are.”

If you fancy a rewatch or a first-time viewing of Love Actually, you’re in luck, as it’s scheduled to air on ITV2 tonight at 9pm. If that doesn’t suit your schedule, don’t fret – the film is also available for streaming on both Amazon Prime and Netflix.

MICHELLE Keegan enjoyed a visit to a £1,260 a night swanky hotel with Mark Wright and their daughter amid the couple’s ‘most lavish Christmas yet’.

The Brassic actress shared a series of snaps from their stay at London‘s Corinthia Hotel in London on her Instagram on Monday.

She captioned the pictures: “A little bit of Christmas magic this weekend” and the first saw her enjoying a glass of wine in the hotel’s bar.

Michelle, 38, wore a beige sleeveless, roll neck jumper and retro style glasses as she posed for the snap, while in others, she had switched into a pair of black satin trousers and a matching top.

The garment had a lace panel down the side, revealing a hint of her bra and trim waist.

The couple also posed for a lift selfie, with Mark, 38, holding their daughter Palma, who looked adorable in a red knitted cardigan – which read Palma Believes – and white tights.

Michelle also shared snaps of the hotel’s impressive Christmas trees and of their Italian meal.

Their festive trip to the capital is another part of the new parents’ plans to pull out all the stops for their first Christmas with their baby girl.

The couple are well known for their over-the-top Christmases, but this year is extra special because of their daughter.

Sources say the Wrights plan on making this festive season “one to remember”, with “no expense spared” as they go all out, and have already shown off the incredible decorations both inside and outside their Essex mansion.

An insider close to the couple told OK!: “Mark loves Christmas and he’s wanted a family for a long time, so for him it couldn’t get any better.

“He’s like an excited puppy dog and cherishing every minute of it. It means the world to him.

“When it comes to presents, he’ll be spoiling them both – Mark doesn’t know how to reign it in!”

The source added that Michelle – who gave birth in March – can’t wait to spend some quality time with her little family this Christmas.

They said: “She’s been really busy but family is her priority. It’s lovely to have some special time together, especially because at one point she and Mark were practically living separate lives because of work.

“Her family are coming down from Manchester but it’s very much a Wright Christmas – family comes first and it’s very important for them to be all together. It’ll be lovely seeing all the kids together.”

THE nation’s most Christmassy coach has been revealed – filled with 53 people named Carol and Noel singing festive songs.

National Express welcomed the army of festive folk with the same name on a service from London Victoria Coach Station.

IDs were checked before boarding to make sure each Carol and Noel was legitimate, and the dress code was simply ‘festive fun’, with many opting for novelty Christmas jumpers.

There were some notable names among the passengers, including TOWIE’s Carol Wright – mum of Mark – and even Noel Fielding (or at least their lookalike).

They were encouraged to sing Christmas songs for the entire journey to get into the festive spirit.

It comes as the UK’s largest coach operator is offering anyone called Carol or Noel free travel on Christmas Day for one of any of the 355 journeys it’s running to 96 locations across the country.

John Boughton, commercial director for National Express, said: “Carol and Noel are the most festive names, so we were delighted to welcome so many on board to kick off the holiday season.

“This year we are feeling more festive than ever before and we can’t wait to welcome Carols and Noels for their free journeys with us on Christmas Day. Singing Christmas songs is optional.

“With planned rail disruption over the festive period, we’re once again stepping up to help people get home this Christmas with thousands of coach services across our key intercity and airport routes.”

The coach company also polled 2,000 people who celebrate the festivities, which found Silent Night was the most popular carol with 35 per cent of the vote.

It was followed by O Come All Ye Faithful and Hark! The Herald Angels Sing (both 18 per cent).

More than a third (36 per cent) admitted they don’t start feeling festive until they sing their first carol and 45 per cent are left with a nostalgic feeling when they hear them.

Around four in 10 (42 per cent) reckon the main thing that makes a great Christmas carol is that it should be easy to sing along to.

While 40 per cent look for a ‘traditional feel’ and 37 per cent reckon it should have memorable lyrics, according to the OnePoll.com figures.

Other top tunes to hear at this time of year included O Holy Night (15 per cent) and Away in a Manger (12 per cent).

But Ding Dong Merrily on High just missed out on the top 10, placing 11th on the list.

John added: “There’s something magical about hearing carols drift through the air during the holidays.

“Whether you’re out singing them door-to-door, or aboard a coach with three dozen people called Carol or Noel, they’re timelessly festive.

“Singing them at this time of year is almost guaranteed to get you in the Christmas spirit, even if there’s no snow on the ground.”

Journalist Liv Clarke visited a joyful Christmas market in a UK town which she says matches any European-style winter wonderland – and has ‘the best’ hot chocolate

Christmas Markets have been bustling for several weeks now and journalist Liv Clarke says she’s “certainly no Grinch” when they pop up, adding that she “relishes” them. Based in Manchester, Liv took a train to an exceptional festive wonderland recently – and she was left enchanted with the “different” kind of Christmas market.

Liv said she loves to “uncover something new each year” at Christmas markets and found herself “whizzing over to Yorkshire on the train on a frosty November morning”, to see how they celebrate Christmas across the border. Heading to Halifax, which hosts an annual Christmas Market each year in the grand Piece Hall, Liv, being a “proud Yorkshire lass” herself, was more than happy to head to the West Yorkshire town.

She said that “getting to these markets couldn’t be simpler” via a pretty train journey – and Liv described the “stunning Grade-I Georgian building” of the the Piece Hall which “boasts a massive 66,000sq ft open-courtyard” as being truly memorable.

She said: “I hopped on the train from Manchester Victoria to Halifax, which takes around 40 minutes, and the Piece Hall is roughly a five-minute stroll from the train station. My ticket set me back £12.59 for an open return which I booked on Trainline the day before, including Railcard discount.”

This works out just over £6 each way, she added, having booked ahead of travelling, which means you can sometimes find one-way tickets at low cost, reports the Manchester Evening News.

Liv said: “The train journey itself was picturesque, especially with a heavy frost adding a sparkle to the rugged landscape of the South Pennines. I passed through Rochdale, Todmoden and Hebden Bridge along the way, admiring the canals and mills which looked particularly striking in the bright sunshine.

“Upon my arrival in Halifax, it was a mere short stroll to the Piece Hall, tucked away from the main thoroughfare. Entry is through one of four gates situated on each side of the square, and there’s something rather grand about stepping through the archway.

“The gate I chose boasted an exquisitely ornate design, adding to the enchantment of the experience. It was still early when I arrived, with many stallholders preparing for the day ahead, but I was already taken with the layout; compared to Manchester, it was refreshing to see the markets here confined to one area, providing a respite from the hustle and bustle of the main high street.”

While waiting for the markets to fully open, Liv took the opportunity to explore the Piece Hall itself, describing “dozens of shops” lining all four sides of the square.

She said: “Given its location on a slight incline, there are varying levels depending on which side you’re on, yet each open-air walkway affords stunning views of the square below.

“On the ground floor, you’ll discover a plethora of cafes and restaurants, many of which stay open late into the evening. I treated myself to a hot chocolate from The Bakery (£3.95), which ranks among the best I’ve ever tasted: rich, chocolatey and perfectly sweetened.”

The Piece Hall is home to shops selling a wide array of items, from handmade gifts to antiques – and while these independent shops operate year-round, “the markets provide a significant boost, with many market traders even supplying the permanent shops”, Liv reported.

Shelly Foster, who runs The Handmade Gift Shop, shared her recommendation for the best time to visit, telling Liv: “The markets are always full of joy, the best time is around 4.30pm, just before sunset when everything is glowing. The markets are open until 7pm on Fridays and Saturdays but the bars and restaurants stay open much later, often with live music creating a lovely atmosphere.”

Lou Harkness-Hudson, who operates Hudson Belle, a shop selling gifts and homeware, said: “It’s just the most unique, unusual place to come, it’s a fantastic building, an excellent community. The markets are a crucial time for us and really boost footfall, it doesn’t get any busier than this. They bring people here to shop and have a nice day out.”

Liv continued to explore, adding: “Back at ground level, the markets were open and shoppers started to wander around as the morning sun began to thaw us all out. There was a fantastic selection of stalls, with many naturally selling products from Yorkshire.

“From rum to cheese to chilli oil – if you can name it, they sell it. Then there were stalls selling hats, gloves and scarves, which I imagine were in high demand during my chilly visit, along with several traders offering the most beautiful decorations and trinkets you could imagine.

“Adding to the enchantment was a merry-go-round and a large Ferris wheel, although it was spinning a bit too quickly for my taste. Given that it was a swinging-seat style wheel, I opted to sit this one out. Nonetheless, it was pleasant to observe.”

In one corner of the square, a towering Christmas tree stood majestically, with a massive ‘Christmas’ sign displayed against the balustrades of the Piece Hall’s second floor behind it, creating an idyllic scene. Liv described.

Liv added: “It’s the setting of the Piece Hall that makes this place special – it genuinely feels like you’re in a European city, rather than in the north of England.

“Naturally, there are far fewer food stalls here than in Manchester, which I found quite appealing. No overwhelming choices here; instead, I easily settled on my early lunch: a Yorkshire Bratwurst from The Sausage Box.

“This was crafted with a locally sourced pork Bratwurst from ‘Lishman’s of Ilkley’, served in a brioche bun with sauerkraut, pickles, crispy onions, ketchup and mustard, all for £9. It was a sight to behold and almost seemed too good to be true.”

Upon taking a bite, Liv said it “lived up to its looks”. She described the sausage as “succulent with a hint of smokiness, the toppings combined to create a flavour explosion, and it was surprisingly easy to eat – no stringy bits of meat or tough bread causing a mess”.

Liv added: “It felt much more thrilling than the Bratwurst stalls we have here in Manchester.”

“Naturally, there’s a stall selling Yorkshire pudding wraps if that tickles your fancy. As a proud Yorkshire lass myself, I wouldn’t dare to sample a pudding made by anyone other than my own mum while in God’s Own County, so I gave that one a miss.

“Other stalls were serving up Indian street food and Paella, while the surrounding eateries included an Italian restaurant and a wine bar that looked rather inviting. After my Bratwurst, I fancied something sweet, so I made a beeline for the churros stall.

“I must confess, it took three attempts to get my hands on some churros, as twice I was informed that the machine was, quite literally, frozen. But as they say, third time’s the charm, and I finally secured my paper cup of golden churros, dusted with crunchy cinnamon sugar and sitting in a pool of chocolate sauce.”

The churros cost £8, with the sauce costing an extra £1, which “seemed reasonable given the generous portion size” which Liv “couldn’t even finish”.

She added: “While I’m not usually one for sweets, even I found these delightful, with the texture being spot-on and just the right amount of chewiness. The sauce was scrumptious and tasted like genuine chocolate rather than a synthetic substitute.”

Summing up the festive experience, Liv said that “everything about the markets was a joy: the location, the people, and the food” – and if she visits again she may even brave a spin on the Ferris wheel, but she’s “making no promises”.

MARK Wright looked very unhappy as he waited for his wife Michelle Keegan, to snap pics with fans in London.

The former Towie star and his actress wife were spotted outside the Corinthia Hotel in London where fans asked Michelle for a photo, but didn’t pay him any attention.

Michelle smiled patiently as the different men loaded up the cameras on their phones to snap a selfie with the former Coronation Street star.

Mark could be seen in the background of the video posted to TikTok waiting beside a black cab and appeared to be annoyed when another fan asked for a photo.

While Michelle said thank you to the fans and walked towards Mark, he still did not smile and opened the door, getting into the waiting cab before his wife.

Fans rushed to the comments section to share their thoughts on the awkward moment.

“He didn’t even let his wife go in the cab first! WOW,” wrote one person.

Another added: “Oh the frustration in him. The mouth, the hands scrunched in the pockets, he was raging.”

And a third commented: “That was quite a hard watch actually.”

Mark may have been inpatient to rush back to the couple’s Essex mansion, where they’d spared no expense to deck it out with Christmas decorations.

Last week, Mark and Michelle revealed their lavish Christmas decorations, that can be found throughout their incredible home.

The celebrity couple are full of the festive spirit as they prepare to celebrate baby daughter Palma‘s first ever Christmas.

Michelle and Mark are well known for their over-the-top Christmases, but this year is extra special because of their daughter.

Sources say the Wrights plan on making this festive season “one to remember”, with “no expense spared” as they go all out.

An insider close to the couple told OK!: “Mark loves Christmas and he’s wanted a family for a long time, so for him it couldn’t get any better.

“He’s like an excited puppy dog and cherishing every minute of it. It means the world to him.

“When it comes to presents, he’ll be spoiling them both – Mark doesn’t know how to reign it in.”

Hollyoaks have announced that fans will be able to binge-watch four Christmas episodes at once as the Channel 4’s annual festive boxset returns once again this month

Hollyoaks‘ annual gift to fans is back this Christmas.

It’s been revealed that four special festive episodes will be available to stream on Channel 4 on Monday, December 22 from 6am.

This Christmas, Hollyoaks invites viewers to get festive with four of its most iconic families.

The festive episodes will follow Christmas Day from start to finish, focussing on one family at a time; the Hutchinsons, the Lomaxes, the Clarks/Maaliks and the McQueens.

Jack and Pearl, alongside the Osbornes, are the uniting thread throughout all four episodes.

Pearl takes it upon herself to revive the Christmas magic in the village, but she remains blissfully unaware that Jack is carrying a surprise of his own.

The Christmas boxset follows a triumphant few months for the Channel 4 continuing drama, as the 30th anniversary week in October delivered the show’s strongest performance in years.

Spoilers have confirmed there’s festive cheer at the Hutchinsons this Christmas but an unexpected present sends the day into turmoil. Meanwhile, Jack Osborne (Jimmy McKenna) is suited and booted with a special mission under his sleeve to make the day extra special.

Dee Dee Hutchinson (Chloe Atkinson) hides a gift and Diane Hutchinson (Alex Fletcher) tries to put on the perfect Christmas, grateful Tony Hutchinson’s (Nick Pickard) there to celebrate with them, but a troubled Ant Hutchinson (Brook Debio( continues to cause tension in the household.

Forced to pull his weight and set the table, Ant stumbles across a burner phone which he pockets in secret. An excited Eva Hutchinson (Aubrey Burgess) sneaks a peak in a present under the tree and Dee Dee is left horrified. Ant also reveals a secret that leads to many questions.

There’s Christmas magic at the McQueens, but for Mercedes McQueen (Jennifer Metcalfe) the sparkle has faded.

Warren Fox (Jamie Lomas) turns up in full Santa costume to help spread cheer but things don’t go to plan and a knock on the door grants Theresa McQueen’s (Jorgie Porter) festive wish.

It’s frosty between Misbah Maalik (Harvey Virdi) and Donny Clark (Louis Emerick) this Christmas but will the festive cheer bring the family closer together or will Donny’s recent escapades be exposed?

It’s the first Christmas without Peri (Ruby O’Donnell) at the Lomaxes but Leela (Kirsty-Leigh Porter) is determined to give her children and Lucas Hay (Oscar Curtis) the best day she can which includes extending an olive branch to Ste Hay (Kieron Richardson).

Meanwhile, watching the carollers perform in the village, Pearl Anderson (Dawn Hope) has something she wants to get off her chest.

Hollyoaks airs Monday to Wednesday on E4 at 7pm and first look episodes can be streamed Channel 4 from 7am

Father Christmas has found a new way to soar above the rooftops, with the London Eye launching its Santa in the Sky experience which is full of dramatic twists and turns

The London Eye fell victim to an April Fool’s earlier this year when it was claimed that it was to be dismantled and shipped to Scotland.

Originally called the Millennium Wheel, the 135 metre tall observation structure is still very much in place and currently holds the title of the UK’s most popular tourist attraction with more than 3million visitors a year.

It is the focal point for London’s famous New Year’s Eve fireworks and has played host to thousands of marriage proposals since it opened its pods in 2000.

The revolving pods give visitors a birds-eye view across London and its historic monuments from the towering Shard to Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, Hyde Park and Nelson’s Column.

And this year, there is something new to see. Father Christmas has traded his sleigh for the big wheel, setting up shop to meet visitors young and old.

The unique Santa in the Sky experience sees guests depart for the North Pole from the VIP lounge, where they are met by the affable elf, Crumbly Bakewell.

Kids first visit Mrs Clause, who helps them write and post a letter to her husband before making them promise not to leave him any gingerbread on account of his seasonal weight gain.

After a highly entertaining performance of Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer that kids and adults will both love, it’s on to the wheel.

The middle bench in the Santa pod has been removed and replaced with a cosy fireplace and reading nook, along with a comfy chair for the man himself.

The experience is interactive from the start. While ascending, kids are asked to help Santa and Crumbly Bakewell build a map by spotting some of the key landmarks across the skyline.

Then they draw their preferred gift on a picture that Santa signs, before he reads T’was the Night Before Christmas to his rapt audience. But the smartest part that floored my four year old was when Santa whipped out the letter that he’d previously written on the ground.

After that, children receive a present, which in our case was a generously sized lego set. Back on solid ground, it was time to say a regretful goodbye to Crumbly Bakewell, my son was bereft!

His verdict would be a solid 10, and I found it to be one of the most authentic and entertaining Santa experiences out there and we will definitely be back.

Tickets are available until Christmas Eve and start at £79 for an adult and child. For more information, visit the London Eye website.

Switzerland’s largest city is often overlooked by tourists, but its Christmas markets offer unique food experiences including wasabi cheese and fondue served on a train

As Christmas approaches, many flock to Colmar in France for its enchanting half-timbered houses or Lapland in Scandinavia for guaranteed snow and Santa sightings. However, this year I decided to break away from the norm and kick-start the festive season with a hidden treasure.

From bracing dips in the river dressed as Father Christmas to sampling unfamiliar cuisine, this city offers a unique Christmas experience like no other.

This became evident as soon as I landed in Zurich, Switzerland’s largest city. Often overlooked due to its reputation as a financial hub rather than an Instagram hotspot, it’s frequently dismissed as merely a gateway to the country, a place to rush through on the way to the breathtaking alpine landscapes elsewhere. But that would be doing it a disservice.

Dig a little deeper, look past the clichés, and you’ll uncover one of Switzerland’s best-kept secrets – Zurich is just as vibrant at Christmas as any ski resort. The Weinachtsdorf Christmas market, situated in a city centre square near the lake shore, is a perfect example.

Switzerland may be famed for its world-beating cheese, but have you ever tried a variety that’s greener than your yuletide tree?

My palate was sent into raptures after tasting the wasabi-flavoured cheese at one particular stall, which caught the eye in a striking pistachio green hue. Alongside it sat “tricolore” cheese, spiced with paprika, chilli and carrot atop a goat cheese foundation, plus a black lemon version enhanced with charcoal (reminiscent of a Limoncello-infused Lindt chocolate bar, yet as dark as coals on a crackling festive hearth).

The range was so impressive that other typically “exotic” flavours, such as truffle, jalapeno and pesto, appeared almost commonplace by comparison.

The lively Christmas spirit was already in full flow. Salmon sizzled over open fires in preparation for lunch, fondue pots bubbled enthusiastically and vendors beamed warmly whilst seeking out customers.

The star attraction for those seeking refuge from the chill is a substantial fondue chalet, its interior wonderfully cheese-scented, leaving little doubt about the delectable fare on offer. Meanwhile, whilst everyone adores the classic Christmas favourites like mince pies and marzipan (and in Switzerland’s case, raclette and fondue), it’s equally simple to avoid predictability through an extensive selection of international food stalls, offering everything from Chinese dim sum to Mexican tortillas and Indian street food, each presenting their own distinctive festive twist.

The German bratwurst – a beloved sausage snack – is a must-try here, but I also came across a rather unexpected festive pudding that’s traditional in Switzerland: chestnut purée cheesecake. The artistic rendition is designed so that each portion resembles a snow-capped mountain peak.

After refilling my glass with cinnamon-infused gluhwein (mulled wine) followed by spiced apple punch, I wandered further through the market and quickly happened upon a delightful pick-and-mix stand advertising “old fashioned British fudges”. Flavours ranged from bubblegum to honey and pistachio, whilst neighbouring chocolate vendors left me utterly spoilt for choice with varieties including coffee, Irish cream, pink gin and cherry.

Whilst the market’s European-crafted presents carry hefty price tags, the food offerings are considerably more affordable, and sampling these culinary delights is an experience well worth having. Following a few hours meandering through the market, I headed to the locally celebrated Café Conditorei 1842, renowned for its legendary postcard-perfect interior, where I indulged in hot chocolate and cake.

Later, as dusk descended, I made my way towards the city’s celebrated shopping boulevard, the Bahnhofstrasse, joining the throngs of spectators gathered to witness the Christmas illuminations being switched on. Signalling the official start of the festive period, these lights are nicknamed Lucy, a moniker drawn from the Beatles’ classic ‘Lucy In The Sky With Diamonds’.

My scarf, adorned with twinkling stars against a midnight blue backdrop, mirrored the Lucy lights and shielded my ears from the biting wind when pulled over my head. While Audrey Hepburn may not have had to contend with freezing temperatures as she donned a headscarf in a vintage car along the European coast, my Swiss setting offered a festive touch with snowflakes….

After enjoying the city’s renowned Singing Christmas Tree, featuring Santa hat-clad choir members belting out tunes from Cher to the Backstreet Boys, it was time for supper. Zurich boasts an array of fantastic dining options – the festively decorated ceiling of Coco Grill and Bar deserves a special nod – but that evening, there was no doubt about my destination: the famed Fondue Express Train at Polerzauber.

Zurich’s globally celebrated fondue is displayed to its full glory on this charming little train, perched high above the Christmas markets at Zurich Central Station. From my elevated vantage point, I watched shoppers splurge at an impressive 120 stalls, all under the watchful gaze of a towering tree, the undeniable centrepiece of the station hall.

Dunking my bread and potatoes into the steaming pot, it became instantly clear why Switzerland boasts such a stellar reputation for world-class cheese – and you can elevate the experience further by incorporating additions such as “a pinch of blue cheese from the [local] dairy”, white Alba truffles, mountain herbs and even champagne. Vegans needn’t feel left out either, as a dairy-free alternative of this iconic dish is available.

One traditionally Swiss – though entirely optional – method of finishing the meal involves requesting a raw egg to be cracked into what remains of the cheese, creating a flavour combination that Polerzauber promises will deliver “probably the best scrambled eggs ever”. It’s undoubtedly unforgettable – and just to make certain it stays with you, the restaurant also stocks its own branded Christmas jumpers, which naturally all the staff sport whilst on duty.

Had I been blessed with additional time, I would have expanded my Christmas market tour to encompass the one situated on Zurich’s own mountain, the Uetliberg. It showcases handcrafted and locally sourced products, whilst on misty days, there’s the possibility of finding yourself enveloped by fluffy white clouds at eye level thanks to the elevation.

Conversely, should the skies be clear, you can drink in a panoramic view stretching to the distant Alps – meaning regardless of conditions, it appears you simply cannot go wrong. Finally, the locals of Zurich have a rather unconventional way to ring in the festive season – an icy dip in the nearby river.

This annual tradition takes place during the first week of December, and even brave tourists can join in if they complete the necessary paperwork in advance.

Despite temperatures potentially dropping to a chilly minus 5C, around 300 festive swimmers don their swimsuits and signature Santa hats each year for the so-called Santa Swim (or Samichlausschwimmen in German). It might be a challenge for the fearless, but it’s hard not to get swept up in the Christmas spirit in a city so committed to the cause.

Some locals boast about the cleanliness of their river, claiming it’s so pure there’s no food for fish, while others highlight the much-touted health benefits of ice bathing. Upon leaving, I was left with no doubt that Zurich’s quirky traditions and distinctive flavours create a unique Christmas experience that simply can’t be found elsewhere.

Book the holiday

Swiss International Airlines (SWISS) provides one-way flights to Zurich from various UK airports. The fare includes all taxes, fees and surcharges, one piece of checked luggage up to 23kg and one piece of hand luggage. Book at swiss.com.

Room rates at Hotel Seidenhof start from 320 CHF (£300) per night, including breakfast, based on two adults sharing a double room. Discover more and book at sorellhotels.com.

For further details on Zurich, head over to zuerich.com. You can also purchase the Zürich Card here, which offers unlimited 2nd class travel in Zurich, various lake cruises, free entry to popular museums, a 50% discount on selected public city tours, and a host of additional discounts and exclusive offers.

MUSIC fans are just realising the age of singer Brenda Lee when she recorded her famous Christmas song.

Festive favourite Rockin’ Around The Christmas Tree was released in 1958 and featured in Home Alone, one of the biggest movies of the 90s. 

Written by Johnny Marks, the rockabilly track Rockin’ Around The Christmas Tree was recorded by Brenda in 1958 when the singer was just 13.

To this day, it remains popular and has been recorded by everyone from John Travolta to Justin Bieber.

The single entered the UK singles chart at Number 30 in its first week in November 1962, according to the Official Charts Company.

It climbed into the Top 10 and earned its original peak of Number 6 a month later.

Rockin’ Around The Christmas Tree secured its place as a festive classic after it was featured in the much-loved 1990 Christmas movie Home Alone.

In the memorable scene, Kevin McCallister – played by Macauley Kulkin – deterred would-be burglars from robbing his home by throwing a pretend Christmas party to make the house appear occupied. 

Yet when one TikToker posted a video of the song and asked what age people thought the singer was, many were stunned to discover it was recorded when Brenda was just a teenager.

One person wrote: “She sounds middle aged.”

Another fan replied: “Wait, I’m just finding this out too.”

A third person added: “Whaaattt?! I looked it up and still have a hard time believing it.”

A fourth person wrote: “Not even my dad knew and he’’s 60.”

Others who have covered Rockin’ Around The Christmas Tree include teenybop heroes Hanson and Cliff Richard. 

In 1987, Kim Wilde and Mel Smith released a version of the song for Comic Relief. 

In a 2019 interview, Brenda Lee – known by her nickname Little Miss Dynamite – said that she had no knowledge as to why Marks wanted her specifically to sing it.

She told The Tennessean: “I had not had a lot of success in records, but for some reason he heard me and wanted me to do it. And I did.”

Dave and Tracey Mani paid a visit to a lesser-known Christmas market with “incredible” food and claimed it’s the best one on the continent that “you’ve never heard of”

A hidden gem of a Christmas market, reportedly the best in Europe that “you’ve never heard of,” could be within reach of Brits for as little as £21. The recommendation comes from Canadian travel vloggers Dave and Tracey Mani, whose YouTube channel chronicles their adventures across the globe, from Poland to Cambodia.

During their festive escapade, the adventurous duo explored the Bratislava Christmas Markets in Slovakia’s capital. As self-proclaimed “Christmas foodies”, Dave and Tracey wasted no time sampling the regional delicacies on offer.

Running from 27 November 2025 to 6 January 2026 (excluding Christmas Eve and Christmas Day), the markets are divided between two locations: Hlavné Square (Hlavné námestie) and Hviezdoslavov Square (Hviezdoslavovo námestie), conveniently just a five-minute stroll apart.

Open daily from 10am to 10pm, the markets promise a “warm and joyful atmosphere,” according to the official website, featuring craft stalls, local and international cuisine, and an array of tempting beverages including grog, mead, fruit wines, and beer.

For Dave and Tracey, though, it’s clearly the food that steals the show at such events. Kicking off their visit at Hlavné námestie, Tracey declared in the video that this is what Christmas markets “are all about.”

She went on to spotlight the festive music and the enticing aromas wafting through the air, while a beaming Dave noted it was “packed” and that he’d “never seen that many food kiosks” at any Christmas market they’d previously visited.

One regional speciality that Tracey deemed essential was a cabbage soup served with bread, which she said resembled goulash. After tasting it, she announced she wanted it “all day.”

Dave was equally impressed, describing the broth as “so good” and noting the dish priced at €7.90 (roughly £6.90), was “so full of flavour.” Their next discovery was Lokša, a traditional potato pancake that Dave called “insane.”

The pair also sampled other treats, including a potato pancake topped with cabbage and smoked meat, as well as a strudel.

Dave and Tracey then headed to the second area of the markets at Hviezdoslavovo námestie, where Dave tasted what he proclaimed to be “some of the best ham” he’d ever encountered.

Their overall verdict on the markets was glowing, with Dave suggesting they’d be “hard to beat” and Tracey branding the food “incredible.” They expanded on their enthusiasm further in the video description.

Beneath their clip, titled Europe’s Best Christmas Market You’ve Never Heard Of, they wrote: “As Christmas foodies, this is one of our favourite European Christmas markets of all time.

“Of course, they had arts and crafts and different items that make perfect Christmas gifts, but food was truly the star everywhere you looked.”

A quick search on Skyscanner.com for a one-way ticket from Manchester to Bratislava for an adult in December showed the cheapest option was Sunday, 14 December, at £21, with a return the next day increasing the price to £68.

However, it’s worth noting that prices can fluctuate considerably depending on travel dates in December, so it’s recommended to plan ahead to secure the best possible deal.

WHEN it comes to the world’s tallest Christmas tree, you might think it would be in one of the Nordic countries – but you’d be wrong.

In fact the world’s biggest living Christmas tree is right here in the UK.

In Northumberland on the National Trust Cragside Estate there is an enormous 147ft Christmas tree.

To put that into perspective, it’s around the size of a 14-storey building, or double the size of the Angel of the North.

It’s officially a Guinness World Record holder too, and this year it was awarded the title of being the ‘world’s tallest bedded Christmas tree’.

That means it’s still living rather than having been cut down.

To be counted as a Christmas tree, the fir has to be decorated as such, so on it there are 800metres of lights, which is 1,320 multi-coloured bulbs.

And for further decoration, there are two huge purple bows measuring in at 6ft each.

With the tree being so high, these were all placed using a cherry picker.

If you’re a fan of baubles, sadly this tree doesn’t have any – but that was due to health and safety concerns if there was bad weather.

Posting the fact that its Christmas tree is now a Guinness World Record holder, the comments were flooded with support.

One wrote “Now that’s impressive! Congratulations” another added “Wow Beautiful! We love Cragside but this makes it even more special”.

The record for the tallest ever Christmas tree belongs to one put up in 1950 in Northgate Shopping Centre in Seattle in the United States.

Not bedded into the ground like the one in Cragside, the Douglas fir was a whopping 212ft tall.

The impressive Cragside tree sits on the National Trust Estate in Northumberland among the gardens.

Cragside is a pretty Victorian country estate and is famous for being the former home of inventor Lord William Armstrong.

Thanks to its owner, Cragside House is considered one of Britain’s ‘original smart homes‘.

It was the first house to be lit up by hydroelectricity – using man-made lakes to power generators for lights and phones.

Visitors can explore Cragside House and gardens during the Christmas period (November 29 to January 4, 2026) from £16.50 per adult, or £8.30 for children (ages 5-17).

Film fans will recognise Cragside after it appeared in a well-known movie franchise, Jurassic World Fallen Kingdom.

Cragside House served as the set location for Lockwood Manor, where heroes Owen (played by Chris Pratt) and Claire (Bryce Dallas Howard) attempt to stop a genetically engineered dinosaur from being sold at auction.

It wasn’t just the main house that appeared in the movie, Cragside Garden Cottage, found in the heart of the estate, was used as the backdrop for several scenes in the film.

The cosy cottage has three bedrooms and sleeps up to six.

It’s still available for a December booking – a three-night stay between December 8 and 11, 2025 starts from £909, which is £50.50pppn.

Next door is Cragside Park Cottage which has the same rates but a different style of decor inside.

A stay in either gets you free access to the Cragside gardens, house and woodlands.

For more on Christmas, one travel writer discovered a fairytale city that looks like it’s from a Disney movie with cosy Christmas markets and hot chocolate by the pint.

Plus, the UK Christmas market named one of Europe’s best – with over 100 stalls, live bands and a singing festive moose.

SCARLETT Moffatt has revealed that her fiancé Scott Dobinson has quit his job as a policeman to be a stay-at-home dad.

The Gogglebox star, 35, got engaged to Scott, 37, in 2023, five months after they became parents to baby son Jude. 

Scarlett has revealed that Scott has taken a two-year career hiatus to be with their son Jude, two, so she can continue her TV career.

The reality star has a host of projects she’s working on, including Strictly Come Dancing‘s Christmas Special and a Christmas pantomime. 

She told The Daily Mail: “I feel really lucky because for the first two years that Jude was born, I decided to take two years off.

“So I was just in full-time mum mode, it was the best.

“And then when Jude turned two, I was like “okay, I need to go back into work now” so I can chat to adults, cause I missed that. 

“And also, you know, this industry’s so difficult, I knew that if I took any longer people might be like, “oh, there’s that girl that used to sometimes be on the telly”.

“So then Scott, my partner, he’s wonderful, he’s now took a two-year career break from the police.

“So he’s now in full-time dad mode, which is lovely. We’re somehow managing because of that, and we’ve got great grandparents too.”

The I’m A Celeb star also explained that she has never employed a nanny to help out with her family.

She said: “I’ve never had a nanny and he’s never been to nursery, but it’s not because I think that those things are bad or anything.

“I think we’ve just been so lucky that I’ve either been at home or he’s with my mum and dad, or Scott’s mum and dad or Scott.

“People aren’t always in that privileged position where they live like 10 minutes away from all of the family.

“I think it’s a very northern thing that we all sort of still live in the same village and stuff, but I can understand why people have ties and things.”

In an interview with The Sun earlier this year Scarlett spoke about when she and Scott are planning to tie the knot.

Scarlett said: “I’d hoping to do it next year but maybe that’s too adventurous? It takes a lot to plan a wedding, but I’ve got this in the bag.”

Just a few years ago, Scarlett admitted that she initially had dreams of a huge Willy Wonka themed wedding, but has now decided to scale back her plans.

However, in an interview before getting engaged, she once said: “I’ve always, always wanted a massive wedding, now I keep saying: ‘Let’s go to Vegas.’”

But, not everyone is happy about Scarlett’s return to TV, as a new Strictly fix has ignited due to her taking part in this year’s Christmas special.

The popular TV star was the first celeb to be announced for this year’s festive special after years of being linked to the BBC show.

However, show insiders are angry at her for taking part because she was trained by Anton Du Beke as a child.

And it is alleged she is now the favourite to win the festive glitterball due to her vast dancing history.

A Strictly insider said: “Scarlett is a trained dancer, she is so good at it and spent much of her childhood doing ballroom and Latin dancing.

“Anton even helped her and now he will be judging her against others. It all feels very unfair.”

But, despite being an early favourite, Scarlett insists she hasn’t picked up where she left off all those years ago.