cosy

Cliff Parisi starred in different medical drama before landing the role of Fred Buckle on Call the Midwife

Cliff Parisi looks a world away from Call the Midwife‘s Fred Buckle in a popular ITV period drama.

During the first season of Call the Midwife, which aired in 2012, actor Cliff Parisi was introduced as Fred Buckle, the kind and attentive handyman at Nonnatus House before he became a local shopkeeper, and he’s remained a fan favourite ever since.

Fred is married to councillor Violet Buckle (played by Annabelle Apsion), has two daughters from a previous marriage, and an adopted son, Reggie, portrayed by Daniel Laurie.

In the forthcoming Call the Midwife prequel, Sisters in Arms, which is set to air this Christmas, Fred’s backstory will be explored as the BBC show rewinds to World War Two, with actor Ciaran Bowling taking on the role of a younger incarnation of Fred.

For the first time, viewers will see the character alongside his first wife Betty Buckle, played by Ami Metcalf, as the Blitz takes hold of Polar, East London.

Away from Call the Midwife, EastEnders fans will recognise Cliff as the kind-hearted Minty Paterson on the BBC soap between 2002 and 2010.

The 66 -year-old actor also won over audiences during his stint on I’m A Celebrity…Get Me Out of Here in 2019, and showcased his culinary talents on Celebrity MasterChef in 2022.

Beyond EastEnders and Call the Midwife, Cliff has played a variety of roles in some of Britain’s most popular TV shows over the years, including Casualty, Hollyoaks, Outnumbered, The Darling Buds of May, and London’s Burning.

His acting career began with the 1989 comedy film Queen of Hearts, where he played the Manager. Following this, he appeared in A Bit of Fry and Laurie in 1990 and KYTV in 1990 and 1993.

Between 1995 and 1996, Cliff took up the role of Daniel Bentley in ITV’s series Bramwell, and he’s now utterly transformed from the ill-fated hospital porter we see today. Sporting darker locks, facial hair, and a pensive expression, the actor is hardly recognisable.

Set in Victorian times, the medical drama centers around Dr. Eleanor Bramwell, portrayed by Jemma Redgrave, as she operates a free infirmary for the destitute in the East End.

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The second season sees a cholera outbreak take its toll, with Daniel Bentley succumbing to illness and subsequently dying from an overdose caused by a dosage miscalculation. Bramwell aired on ITV across four seasons from May 1995 until June 1998.

Since Bramwell debuted on television, the show has gained legions of fans, with one person writing on IMDb: “Great period piece–well worth watching. I came upon this miniseries by accident, and I am glad I did.

“I’d never heard of it, but it sounded interesting. It really does a good job of portraying what London and medicine probably were like back in the 1800s.”

A second explained: “An amazing series. I have followed “Bramwell” since I started watching the mini-series on PBS’s “Masterpiece Theatre” a few years ago. The depiction of a female doctor in Victorian England is very entertaining and groundbreaking. I strongly recommend it to anyone interested in period drama or the history of medical practice.”

“Loved Seasons 1-3. I started watching this show (Netflix instant play) as background noise while I worked on some projects, but soon fell in love.

“I am particularly drawn to medical dramas, and this show was no exception. I love the relationship between the doctors Bramwell (Elanor and her father) and the hopefully somewhat-accurate depiction of the struggles a woman doctor might face in those times”, added another.

Call the Midwife is available to stream on BBC iPlayer

DOGS may not be able to speak, but mine didn’t have to – the eyes said it all.

As Ernie watched me skip over to the outdoor hot tub armed with kindling and firelighters, he clearly thought I’d gone mad.

While I waited for the water to warm with a glass of wine and a good book, he took himself off inside our cottage for a nap — and went on to snooze away the majority of our three-day stay.

Never in his 11 years have I seen him so relaxed away from home, and I have to say, I felt pretty zen, too.

We were at Rowley Farm Holidays — an award-winning family-run retreat in Worcestershire.

It specialises in luxurious self- catering stays, and everything about the site has been designed with dogs and their owners in mind.

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You won’t find any annoying pet fees here or rules about which breeds are welcome.

And whether you choose to stay in one of the three beautiful cottages or hidden-away shepherd’s hut, you will have access to your own enclosed garden, a secure dog field and the cute Muddy Paws Wash Room, which comes complete with a range of doggy shampoos.

Dog bowls, blankets, treats, poo bags and throws for the beds and sofas are provided in every type of accommodation, too.

I was staying in The Old Dairy, all on one level bar a couple of steps up from the entrance hall — handy for an older boy like Ernie who sometimes struggles with his back legs.

The open-plan cottage, which sleeps two, was, as the name suggests, the farm’s former dairy but it has been given a stylish makeover since then, kitted out with all the mod cons but retaining a country-chic feel throughout.

I loved the gable ceiling and large windows that allowed light to flood in.

And just like Ernie, I slept like a baby, snuggled up in luxurious linen in the comfy king-sized bed.

While The Old Dairy has underfloor heating beneath its easy-to-clean stone slabs, it also boasts air con — a great perk for pet owners staying during future heatwaves.

We had a welcome basket of local produce waiting for us and the kitchen was incredibly well-equipped.

Although if you don’t fancy cooking, there are a whole host of dog-friendly farm shops and places to eat within a few miles of Rowley Farm.

You’ll find traditional pub grub at The Holt Fleet and the Lenchford Riverside Inn, while The Red Lion serves up cracking Indian cuisine.
Quiet time

In its car park, you’ll also find the quirky Whole Moo World vending machine and tuck shop, which I was quite taken with.

Here, you can get fresh milk, milkshakes and snacks like sandwiches and Scotch eggs 24/7 — handy if you get a case of the midnight munchies.

While all the other cottages were booked during our stay, we barely heard a peep from any of them.

And, on a stroll through the quiet site, we saw that like us, many other guests had opted to just chill out — reading, lounging around in the complimentary robes and enjoying some quiet time while their dogs roamed safely in their gardens.

At Rowley Farm, you really can just kick back and relax — but if you do decide to venture out, there are lots of things to see and do nearby.

Witley Court, just up the road, is a must if you like your history.

This once-grand stately home was destroyed by a fire in the 1930s and while only the shell of the building remains, it’s easy to imagine how it would have looked in its heyday.

Dogs on leads are welcome to explore, and Ernie and I spent a good couple of hours wandering around the ruins and grounds.

Don’t miss seeing the Perseus and Andromeda fountain blast jets of water into the sky, either. This normally happens on the hour in the summer months.

We also went into Worcester, around a 20-minute drive away, where we enjoyed a stroll alongside the River Severn, visited Gheluvelt Park, feasted at Kyndfolk and popped into the Cathedral to have a word with the Man Upstairs.

I couldn’t say if Ernie asked for peace on Earth and good will to men (and dogs), but I think it’s probably more likely he asked for a return visit to Rowley Farm.

WE MIGHT barely be in November but with the mornings chillier and the evenings darker it won’t be long before we press play on the festive films.

And one in particular – The Holiday (2006) – has one of the cosiest of cottages we all dream of staying in over the winter period.

While Rosehill Cottage might be fictional, the UK isn’t short of similarly beautiful cottages by any means.

So here are six that will give you the same feel as being in the movie’s cottage itself:

Philham Water Cottage, Devon

Nestled in the Devonshire countryside is Philham Water Cottage with a double bedroom and a lounge with a sofa bed.

Like The Holiday itself, you will find a roaring wood stove inside an open fireplace.

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There’s WiFi, a TV and a DVD player too.

The cottage also has a fully equipped kitchen and a bathroom, with a bath tub.

The website says it can host two individuals or a couple, however the cottage does sleep up to four people.

It costs from £95 per night, so £42.50 per person per night if two people were sharing or £21.25 per person per night if four people did stay.

Lew Quarry Cottage, Devon

Set in the grassy green fields, Lew Quarry Cottage, also in Devon, has two bedrooms and two bathrooms.

There’s also a fully equipped kitchen, washing machine, and free WiFi.

If you fancy enjoying a cuppa in the fresh air, there is also a garden with a cosy seating area.

And of course, the cottage has a grand fireplace.

Nearby guests can head to Lydford Castle and Launceston Castle.

A seven-night stay for two adults and two children costs £465, working out at £16.61 per person, per night.

Old Blacksmith’s Cottage, Lincolnshire

Old Blacksmiths Cottage in Market Rasen has one bedroom, alongside a shower room and fully equipped kitchen.

The cottage also has a private garden and parking.

Nearby attractions include Lincoln Medieval Bishops’ Palace and Lincoln Cathedral of St. Mary.

It costs from £320 for a seven-night stay for two people, working out at £22.86 per person, per night.

The Green House, Somerset

The Green House in the village of Nunney, Frome, is a quaint Grade II listed cottage that can sleep up to four people (though children under the age of nine are not allowed).

In the lounge there is a cosy fire, which guests can snuggle up by and admire the period features of the cottage.

In the chilly mornings make sure to head outside to the secluded terrace that overlooks the stream.

In the village – which is often dubbed one of the prettiest in Somerset – there’s also a pub and a small shop.

Nearby attractions include Nunney Castle and Cranborne Chase – an International Dark Sky Reserve.

Stays cost from £571 for seven-nights for four people, working out at £20.40 per person, per night.

The Cottage at The Feathered Nest, Cotswolds

Now if you really want to stay in a cottage that looks almost identical to Rosehill Cottage in The Holiday, book into The Feathered Nest’s cottage in the Cotswolds.

Known as ‘Little House’ it is part of The Feathered Nest’s pub site and dates back to the 15th century.

The cottage found in the village of Chipping Norton, has a double bedroom as well as a lounge area with a sofa bed.

There is a grand open fireplace and a sleek kitchenette too.

Your four-legged friend doesn’t have to miss out on this one either as it is dog friendly.

Stays are a bit steeper costing from £800 for two nights for four people, but if you stay from a Sunday to a Monday you get a discount making it £760 – or £95 per person per night… Maybe a good one for a friend group.

Blackbird Cottage, Dorset

Blackbird Cottage in Beaminster is dog-friendly and sleeps up to five guests.

This restored Grade II listed cottage boasts its original features across its three bedrooms and walled garden.

The ground floor of the cottage also features historic stone floors as well as a wood-burning stove to keep you warm.

You’d be a short walk from shops and pubs as well as a short drive to the famous Jurassic Coast.

If you stay for three nights, you can get a £50 discount working out at £526 total or £35.07 per person per night.

HAVING a cosy weekend away to look forward to makes winter all the more exciting.

But it’s especially fantastic when you can save an extra 15 per cent on your stay with The Inn Collection Group.

Claim an extra 15% off (+ dogs stay free) with code ICG_WOOF15

Whether you’re after a coastal escape to a seaside castle, a Snowdonia staycation with waterfalls on your doorstep, or an Edwardian manor with manicured gardens – we’ve got you covered.

We’ve hand-picked these UK breaks in spots like Yorkshire, Wales and the Lakes because they make for fantastic winter escapes, plus all of them are dog-friendly, too.

If you do bring the pooch along, they can even have a bite to eat from Sir Woofchester’s dog menu, where they can have their own mini roast dinner, fish and chips or even a Paw Star dog martini.

Here’s the winter staycations you can book today and bag an extra 15 per cent off – plus bring the dog along for free.

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The Wateredge Inn, The Lake District

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly base to explore the Lake District, The Wateredge Inn in Ambleside is a great pick.

This waterside pub with rooms sits right on the shoreline of Lake Windermere, with a waterfront dining terrace perfect for a pint with a view.

In the restaurant, dine on everything from hot honey chicken burgers (£18.95) to ‘our famous lasagne’ (£17.50) – just make sure to save room for the sticky toffee brownie sundae for dessert (£8.50).

Rooms start from £80.10 per night on a B&B basis.

Claim an extra 15% off (+ dogs stay free) with code ICG_WOOF15

The Swallow Falls Inn, Snowdonia

Sitting steps away from a waterfall in Snowdonia National Park, The Swallow Falls Inn is worlds away from the everyday grind.

The charming inn provides your pick of 39 cosy rooms to return to after a day’s exploring the outdoors, plus a pub with a popular Thursday steak and wine night (£25pp).

The hotel is only two miles away from Betws-y-Coed, a gorgeous village with dense forests and lakes sitting on the Conwy Valley railway line.

Rooms start from £85.50 per night on a B&B basis.

Claim an extra 15% off (+ dogs stay free) with code ICG_WOOF15

The Tynemouth Castle Inn

This sprawling Castle Inn has stood overlooking the the shore of Tynemouth‘s Longsands Beach for over 80 years.

There’s 72 plush bedrooms here, with the option to stay in a sea-view rooms, offering you a front-row view to glorious seaside sunsets.

Whether you’re up for a breezy winter beach walk, or prefer dipping into the shops and cafes in the charming local village, it’s a great spot for a calming weekend away.

Rooms start from £89 per night on a B&B basis.

Claim an extra 15% off (+ dogs stay free) with code ICG_WOOF15

The Ripon Inn, North Yorkshire

Stay in a restored Edwardian hotel in the North Yorkshire countryside, just steps from the charming city of Ripon and its impressive cathedral.

The property sits on six acres of beautifully landscaped gardens, giving making it feel like a country manor retreat. Inside is all grand staircases and original fireplaces, as well as a stylish, botanical-themed bar.

This hotel prides itself on its hearty Sunday roasts, which are served carvery-style with a selection of tender meats and giant Yorkies.

Rooms start from £89 per night on a B&B basis.

Claim an extra 15% off (+ dogs stay free) with code ICG_WOOF15

The Stables, Whitby

Visit the scenic North York Moors with a stay at this 17th century farmhouse-turned cosy countryside inn.

Stay in a courtyard room with far-reaching field views, and enjoy traditional meals in The Stables, the warm and friendly on-site Yorkshire pub.

You’ll be based in Whitby, with its picturesque seaside harbour, Gothic abbey ruins and dramatic coastal paths on your doorstep.

Rooms start from £84 per night on a B&B basis.

Claim an extra 15% off (+ dogs stay free) with code ICG_WOOF15

Discount code: ICG_WOOF15 expires on 30/11/2026 11:59pm (BST)
Terms and Conditions:
Valid for stays from 11/09/2026-03/10/2026 for stays arriving before 17/03/2027. Special rate includes: 15% off our flexible Bed & Breakfast rate and up to two dogs per room, per night free of charge. Subject to availability and choice, excludes black out dates.

Prices correct at the time of publication.

THE UK’s best holiday park has been revealed and it is the ultimate peaceful retreat.

Named Best Holiday Park at the Sykes Gem Awards 2026, Stonerush Lakes in Lanreath, South Cornwall is spread across 28 acres and is home to numerous different lodges.

Lodges vary in size between one and three bedrooms, are all detached and timber clad.

Many also have views of the lake or hillside and you can book one with its own hot tub too.

And if you really want something special, there are lodges with cinema rooms and spa facilities available.

There’s an onsite Old Mill Bar and Restaurant right by the lake, ideal for grabbing a bite to eat with meals made using local produce.

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If the weather is nice and sunny, you can sit on the outside terrace.

The inside is just as nice though, with a roaring fire to cosy up next to on cold winter days.

And what’s better is that your four-legged best friend doesn’t have to miss out as the site is dog-friendly.

For a day out, you can also head to the villages of Looe or Polperro, which are both around eight miles away.

There are several hidden beaches nearby as well, such as Lansallos Cove, Lantic Bay and Talland Bay – which are all within a 15 to 25 minute drive.

Silvano Geranio, owner said: “We are absolutely delighted to be named Holiday Park of the Year in the Sykes Gems Awards.

“Personally, I feel incredibly proud to own a park that has received this recognition, but more than anything, I’m delighted for the team.”

Many visitors note how peaceful the park is, with one person commenting: “My idea of paradise.”

Another guest said: “We over looked the lakes which has an abundance of wildlife so quiet and peaceful and relaxing.”

A third person added: “It’s the ultimate relax.”

You could book into a lodge that sleeps up to four people for £477 for seven nights – working out at just £17 per person, per night.

YOU’LL find this majestic manor hotel tucked away in the Hertfordshire countryside with beautiful gardens and cosy rooms.

Read on to find out more about Fanhams Hall and everything you can do there from exploring the beautiful Japanese garden to table tennis and even karaoke.

Where is Fanhams Hall?

One mile outside of the pretty town of Ware in East Hertfordshire is the sprawling Fanhams Hall which is set on a 27-acre estate.

The former manor house that dates back to the 14th century has since been built upon and as enormous as it is, if you didn’t know if it was there, you’d never stumble upon it by chance.

After driving through winding country roads you’re welcomed in with the grand driveway that leads towards the beautiful hotel.

It’s a true countryside spot with manicured grounds where you’ll see wildflowers, ducks, ornate Japanese gardens with its own tea house, a wisteria canopy, croquet lawn, and water features – along with the occasional dog walker too.

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What is the hotel like?

Fanhams Hall is a Jacobean mansion which oozes charm, history and luxury. Inside are wooden panelled walls and formal dinners take place in the elegant Drawing Room.

For drinks, there’s the grand conservatory which has its own outdoor terrace and patio.

There are some rooms reserved for events, but you can poke your head in to admire them if nobody’s there and you’ll want a glimpse of the Long Gallery.

It was formerly a picture gallery inside the main house and has oak panelling and a vaulted ceiling with impressive, sparkling chandeliers.

The hotel itself is enormous, as are the grounds, so don’t be surprised if you lose your bearings at first.

What is there to do there?

Of course exploring the gardens is a must. But on a rainy day, head upstairs where you’ll discover the Energy Zone which has a foosball table, table tennis as well as a pick n mix sweet station, soft drinks, and refillable tea and coffee.

If you’re staying in a larger group, you may want to hire out the Karaoke Klub which has disco balls, a private bar, popcorn and even a slushie machine.

Outside is a small fitness room with free weights, running and rowing machines and bikes.

Fanhams Hall is a five-minute drive away from the centre of Ware. Here, take a stroll down the high street and pop into its shops like Noire, Sparkles of Ware and The Sage Garden along with plenty of pubs and coffee shops.

In the springtime check out the local lido, or take a walk along the River Lea to see the barges, boats and swans.

Ware is also a 20-minute drive away from Hertfordshire Zoo where you can see big cats, lemurs, meerkats and reptiles.

What is there to eat and drink there?

For dining, head to the Drawing Room for an intimate setting and tasty food.

The menus change seasonally, and while we were there, we indulged in juicy steak that came with a side of salad and fries, as well as a creamy mushroom pasta with crispy pieces of parmesan cheese.

At the bar, you can choose anything from a refreshing glass of white wine, to sweet rosé, a gin and tonic and a choice of beers on draught.

In the morning, head to the pavilion for breakfast where there are both hot and cold options with all the classics like fried eggs, toast, beans, mushrooms, sausages and bacon along with croissants with jam.

For those who are a fan of tea, you’ll be thrilled that there are Teapigs which come in a choice of flavours and you get your own tea pot – there are various milks on offer too. Feel free to refill your juice, tea and coffee as often as you’d like.

A traditional afternoon tea is popular here where guests can sample a selection of sandwiches from dill and salmon to egg mayonnaise, fresh cakes and gateaux.

Don’t forget the scones which come in flavours like vanilla and lavender and enjoy a cup of tea on the side- this starts from £40 per adult.

What are the rooms like?

There are rooms and suites both in the main building and in the courtyard of the hotel.

Each vary in size and design from the smaller Shoebox room aimed at solo travellers to the large Chestnut Suite which has a four-poster bed. 

I stayed in the luxurious Bonsai Room which has cosy mustard accents, a comfy king-size bed. Its two windows make it light, airy and provide sweeping views across the lawn.

There’s also a mini SMEG kettle and fridge with a few complimentary cans, there was also a coffee machine, snacks and the room has free WiFi and air con too.

The most lavish part was the ensuite where that you can watch TV from the bath, then there’s the huge shower which has side jets and Molton Brown toiletries.

For those who want to bring their furry friends, you can. There is a £40 per stay extra charge, which includes room access and a special welcome pack for dogs.

Room rates start from £126. See https://www.exclusive.co.uk/fanhams-hall/ for more.

Is Fanhams Hall family-friendly?

Yes. The Family Rooms come with two double beds and sleep two adults and two children – making them an ideal choice if you’re travelling with the kids.

The rooms are in the main mansion house and have a large bathroom too, some have a shower, some come with both a shower and bath.

Is there access for guests with disabilities?

Some parts of the courtyard building are accessible, with one fully accessible room which has been adapted with a wet room and handrails.

You can request this room when making your booking and for more information, call the hotel directly.

The lift inside the main building is a lift next to the Conservatory Bar – from there guests can reach the Energy Zone and some third-floor bedrooms.

IF you love the countryside but prefer something glam over actually getting mucky, this one’s for you.

Silchester Farm in Hampshire delivers all the charm of a country escape without you ever having to ruin your shoes.

This rustic retreat was even featured on Made in Chelsea, which tells you something about who you’ll be rubbing shoulders with here.

From where to eat to local history, here’s everything you need to know about staying at Silchester Farm in Hampshire.

Where is Silchester Farm?

This stay is in Silchester, a small village close to Basingstoke in Hampshire. The farm is less than an hour’s train journey away from London.

If travelling by car, the farm is well-signposted through a series of pleasant country lanes, crossing over wooden bridges and past old-fashioned country pubs and pretty churches.

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What’s it like?

A popular wedding venue, Silchester Farm is a stylish rural retreat set among fields of quietly grazing sheep and calm countryside.

The site centres around a series of manicured flower and vegetable patches, vine-draped arbours and an outdoor barn kitchen.

What are the rooms like?

Framing the outskirts of the vegetable patches you’ll find the Pyggies, nine giant, self-contained pig arks.

There’s room on the steps outside to drop off your wellies and brolly from your day at the farm. Once you open the door, you’re met with cosy warm orange lighting, a relaxing wood scent, and a giant bed you’ll immediately want to jump on.

The Pyggies are equipped with kitchenettes, which have lovely touches like glass-bottled milk in the fridge, posh teabags as well as matching cup and saucer sets.

In our Pyggy, Rosemary, a large telly sat above a cosy wood burner, opposite a large sofa to sink into. The bed was piled up with cosy throws, and behind a wooden screen was a roomy bathtub complete with the Silchester Farm’s own soaps and body creams.

A spacious rainfall shower, cosy curved ceiling and giant glass doors letting the sunlight pour through were the cherry on top of this chic countryside accommodation.

Rooms start from £252 per night for two, with great rates on last-minute bookings in particular. See SilchesterFarm.co.uk.

What is there to eat and drink?

The Trough Farm Shop on-site is a great spot for brunch, with coffee, sausage rolls, cakes and pastries available, with indoor and outdoor seating.

As for dinner, you’re best off booking in at a nearby pub, as the restaurant here is usually reserved for wedding guests.

The Plough Inn is a pretty, restored 18th century pub serving food and local ales, while The Calvella Arms does a spectacular sticky toffee pudding.

There are, however, food events you can book yourself onto at the farm. The Sunday Club offers fantastic roasts with giant yorkies (from £22) while the Harvest Feast sees the outdoor kitchen come alive with seasonal produce served by a roaring fire. Check dates here.

What else is there?

Silchester is a Roman village, and is a short walk from well-preserved, third century walls as well as amphitheatre ruins. Reception will happily direct you on the walking route.

While there’s no gym at a rustic retreat like this, there are bicycles available to hire, as well as a tennis court facing the pristine country gardens.

Is it family friendly?

Each of the Pyggies sleep up to two people, equipped with king-sized beds fit for two adults.

This retreat is best for couples’ escapes or friends getaways.

Is it accessible?

While there are ramps available for accessing the farm’s buildings and gardens, the site is made up of pebble and grass pathways also.

Silchester Farm recommend disabled visitors are accompanied by a companion where possible. For more information, see their website.

DO YOU think camping is just for summer? Think again.

With the help of Pitchup.com, we’ve put together a list of the 10 best campsites for the autumn with on-site saunas, spas, and even lodges with central heating.

Wighill Park Glamping, West Yorkshire

When it’s dark and gloomy, some of us would rather not sleep in a flimsy tent, and at Wighill Park Glamping are some super cosy camping spots.

Campers can shelter from the elements inside the individual wooden pods.

The smallest sleep up to two people but still have all the essentials like a little kitchenette, sofa, bed and its own toilet and shower room.

For a little extra, you can opt a hot drink pack, fireside kit and even a bottle of gin and a bottle of tonic.

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Some of the larger pods even have their own hot tubs and can sleep up to five people.

The farm is part of Wighill Park, once a private cricket pitch for Lord Hawke (a well-known figure in the world of cricket). Its woodland trails are perfect for an autumn walk, and dogs are welcome too.

If you’re after some exploring further afield, the campsite is a 25-minute drive away from York and under 40 minutes from Leeds and Harrogate.

Rates start from £85 per person per night.

Moddershall Oaks Country Spa Retreat, Stafford

If you really want to take your camping holiday to the next level, how about a retreat with an on-site spa?

The wooden pods at Moddershall Oaks Country Spa Retreat sit on a huge estate with woodland and lakeside walks.

But when the Great British weather inevitably turns, huddle inside the spa, gym, restaurant and bar.

At the spa are swimming pools, a steam room, hydrotherapy pool, heated tiled loungers, experience showers and a relaxation lounge.

When it comes to the pods, these sleep from two up to four with large beds, black-out curtains, air conditioning and an ensuite with a rainfall shower.

There are luxury toiletries, a flatscreen TV, mini-fridge, GHD hair dryer and tea and coffee also inside.

Guests staying in the pods get complimentary gym access during their stay as well as breakfast which is in the adjoining Oak House restaurant (spa and exercise classes are charged separately).

Rates start from £150 for two people per night.

Whitehouse Farm, Suffolk

Tucked away in Suffolk is Whitehouse Farm, a campsite perfect for anyone who is after a quiet and peaceful retreat.

On the campsite are cosy shepherd’s huts which come with snug double beds, a kitchenette, small dining area – some also come with firepits and barbecues.

Or for those who have their own motorhome, simply book the pitch.

Pitches are either in the meadow, or the old orchard where there are fruits like damsons, apples and pears in early autumn.

For those on a family trip, there’s an outdoor climbing frame for children who don’t mind the weather.

And on the campsite, dogs are welcome too as long as they’re kept on a lead.

During the cooler evenings, adults can take advantage of the on-site sauna which is a new addition and sits above the pond.

Rates start from £30 for two people per night.

North End Farm, Dorset

Down in rural Dorset is North End Farm which is close to beaches and local pubs.

There are three spots available to book, a cosy stay called the North End Cabin which sleeps two people.

The Potting Shed cabin has lake views and also sleeps two people, then there’s the Old Cricket Pavilion lodge which has two bedrooms, a TV and most importantly for winter, central heating.

The site is dog-friendly with plenty of walking trails and there are three lakes suitable for swimming.

There’s a hot outdoor shower on the lakeside so anyone brave enough to get into the water can warm up afterwards.

Slightly unusual additions include the chance to go paragliding as the owner owns a paragliding company. It’s also possible to organise clay pigeon shooting and fishing trips.

For a pub lunch and a trip, the farm shop is a five minute drive away and the Jurassic Coast beach at Seatown is two miles away.

Rates start from £160 per two people for two nights.

Woodside Country Park, Herefordshire

For long walks in the Malvern Hills National Park on a campsite which has wild water swimming and fishing, head to Woodside Country Park.

The campsite is in amongst 28 acres of landscaped grounds with lots of chances to see birds and wildlife.

Campers can choose to stay on a non-electric or electric pitch in a tent either on the ground of a rooftop tent, to a caravan, campervan or motorhome.

There’s also a choice of camping pods which sleep up to five people and while they don’t have any facilities, it will will be cosy.

When it comes to activities, a lakeside wood-fired sauna is available for private hire or public sessions.

Or head out on one of its many trails, including a fairy door trail for children.

For the adults, a 15-minute walk along the Herefordshire Trail leads to a vineyard and winery which holds both guided and self-guided tours and tastings.

Rates start from £29 per two people for two nights.

Andark Lake, Southampton

Any campers who actually enjoy the darker days and don’t want to compromise when it comes to activities should head to Andark Lake.

Six miles outside of Southampton, the campsite is centred around a lake – which is purpose-built for scuba diving.

It holds pre-booked training courses, recreational dives, kit hire and air fills for certified divers.

Other facilities include its lakeside sauna which is perfect for a warm up after a cold lake plunge.

There are open-water swims at the weekend (for an extra £7 charge) and nearby at Swanwick Marina, visitors can try their hand at sailing, paddleboarding, kitesurfing and windsurfing.

The on-site café serves snacks, light lunches as well as hot and cold drinks throughout the day.

For a more hearty meal, there are three pubs within walking distance.

Rates start from £25 per two people per night.

Wildswim2sauna, Devon

After a secluded no-frills campsite with wild water swimming right on your doorstep? Wildswim2sauna is an option for autumn.

The campsite in South Devon is open year-round and is very much an off-grid site.

There are non-electric grass tent pitches or non-electric grass touring pitches – and make sure to take supplies as well as the site has no showers.

What it does have however is a river right on your doorstep for wild swimming or chilly cold plunges.

There are also hot tubs and a sauna which can be hired for warming up after a swim.

Within the site, it’s possible to organise mackerel fishing trips, sea swims and coastal cruises in and around Salcombe.

One visitor wrote in their review: “Amazing beautiful and remote location, incredible swimming right by our tent. So peaceful waking up to the birdsong and rustling of animals on the river.”

Rates start from £40 per two people per night.

Lunga Pier and Shore Camping, Argyll

For a taste of adventure, head to Lunga Pier and Shore Camping in Argyll – it’s a remote spot and even quieter in the off-season.

The campsite sits on the Craignish Peninsula in western Scotland, with impressive coastal views that reach the Corryvreckan Channel.

Thanks to its location by the water, the site is ideal for wild swimmers, paddleboarders, anglers and kayakers.

There are also rugged coves and nearby islands to explore – just don’t forget your wetsuit.

Visitors have seen wildlife such as otters playing in the sea and you’re also likely to see seals, hares, herons and curlews.

Campers have also praised the site for its incredible pitch views across the water.

The village of Ardfern, with a shop, restaurant and pub, is ten minutes’ drive away.

Rates start from £28.88 per two people per night.

Herding Hill Farm and Caravan Camping Site, Northumberland

While most dislike the early nights of autumn and winter, it’s the perfect time for stargazing.

Herding Hill Farm Caravan and Camping Site in Northumberland even has stargazing kits and visitors could even catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights.

The on-site petting farm will prove popular with the kids who are welcome to help with the twice-daily feeding of the animals.

Children can also make use of the playground and ball field behind the cabins.

Pitches vary from electric hardstanding for tents, caravans and campervans. It also has pods which have raised beds and mattresses – some also have private hot tubs.

Other things to do include seeing Hadrian’s Wall which is half-a-mile away and the market town of Haltwhistle is a five-minute drive away.

There’s a camping kitchen with vending machines and the accessible shower block has underfloor heating so it’ll be warm even in the winter.

Along with the stargazing kits, firepits and barbecues all available to hire too. Rates start from £30 for two people per night.

Wassell Grove Camping and Caravanning, West Midlands

Wassell Grove Camping and Caravanning is a great find for anyone who loves fishing with three lakes available to its campers.

For those who aren’t into fishing, the nearby woodland is lovely for an autumn stroll.

Not to mention both Cadbury World and West Midland Safari Park are under half an hour away.

Kids will love the woolly addition to the campsite, the friendly alpacas which campers can feed with food bought from the café.

The on-site café also serves hot and cold food throughout the day for guests, or for those who decide to embrace the chill, there’s the option to fire up the barbecue instead.

If you fancy a cosy stay not in a tent, the campsite has pods that sleep up to three people and cabins which are basic but will keep the chill away.

The cabins have an outdoor picnic table and a kettle.

Rates start from £16 per two people per night.

DANNY Jones shared an affectionate moment with his wife Georgia Horsley at the Pride of Britain Awards after she stood by him through their marriage woes.

The married McFly singer, 40, was caught snogging Love Island star and TV presenter Maura Higgins at the BRIT Awards afterparty in 2025.

This led to Danny publicly apologising to Georgia after the drunken kiss – with his wife of 10 years agreeing to stand by him.

Showing they’re united, Georgia and Danny shared a clip of them posing together on the red carpet.

The pair shared a get ready with me clip with Georgia stunning in a burgundy dress and Danny opting for an all black suit.

Danny captioned the post: “Last night at Pride of Britain Awards we celebrated the courageous & extraordinary.

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“In what can be a very scary world sometimes it’s so important to acknowledge the kindness & selflessness of these individuals.

“Truly inspiring stories and even more incredible & inspiring humans.

“Be kind, always.”

Meanwhile, Maura – who is currently competing on Dancing With the Stars in the US – was thousands of miles away.

On Sunday, Maura sizzled in a white PVC skintight bodysuit and corset as she attended the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show in Los Angeles.

The Sun revealed how Danny and Maura, who appeared together in I’m A Celeb last year, shared a brief kiss during Universal Music’s Brit Awards.

The duo then travelled separately to the five-star Nobu Hotel for more drinks.

Last March, Danny made his emotional statement on Instagram, and showed his regret for putting his loved ones “in this situation.”

The dad-of-one, who shares son Cooper with Georgia, 38, wrote: “Hello everyone.

“Sorry it’s taken me a while to post this but I’ve taken some time out to be with those closest to me.

“I want to deeply apologise to my wife and family for putting them in this situation.

“I love them so much and we’ll continue to deal with this privately.”

Danny continued: “I love you guys, thank you for your patience, understanding and support.

“See you all soon, Danny.”

At the time, pals previously said that Danny was keen to draw a line under the scandal, which saw him holding crisis talks with Georgia, his wife of ten years.

A friend said: “Danny wants to draw a line in the sand and move on.

“He has talked with Georgia, and they just want to carry on with their lives.

“His actions were incredibly embarrassing, and he has expressed how much he regrets it.

“Now is the time to move past it and try and get back to normal.”

It came after it was claimed Georgia had issued The Voice panelist with a “final warning.”

THE Cotswolds is one of the few places in the UK that looks even more beautiful at this time of year than during the summer months.

Gorgeous thatched-roofed cottages offer a snug escape, old pubs light up roaring fireplaces and woodlands are carpeted with fiery leaves.

I was visiting Bourton-on-the-Water, which offered all of this and more. In fact, the picture-perfect village has been dubbed the “Venice of the Cotswolds” thanks to its gorgeous scenery.

Weaving its way through the heart of the village, the River Windrush has a series of low stone bridges spanning its clear, shallow waters.

Honey-coloured homes line the grassy banks, creating a stunning backdrop that looks like the set of an English murder-mystery drama.

Its charm is magical and it comes as no surprise to learn that Kourtney Kardashian pipped me to the post, visiting the village and snapping the cottages I was lucky to call home for the weekend in her Instagram story.

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And Instagram-worthy this home certainly is.

Kestrel Cottage is the perfect bolthole for a weekend away. With one beautifully-decorated bedroom and a comfy sofabed, there is more than enough room for a couple, family or group of friends.

It’s one of four cottages set within an old mill and it’s bursting with character. It looked like it was straight out of an interior design magazine with fluffy carpets, a chic olive-coloured kitchen and bare-brick walls.

I loved how well equipped and homely the kitchen was, with enough facilities to whip up dinner for a cosy night in, along with all the decor you’d want to jazz up your own home.

My fairytale visit does come with a cautionary tale, though.

Where the Kardashians go, wannabe influencers will follow.

And Bourton-on-the-Water serves up the perfect picture spots, with a steady stream of visitors — although slightly less so now that summer is over (another good reason to visit in autumn).

Plus, staying in the heart of the village comes with the luxury of slipping out before the crowds for a peaceful wander in the sunshine to grab a morning coffee.

Bakery On The Water is the enemy of your waistline, but well worth it. Two cappuccinos and a side of pastry and sausage roll was the fuel we needed to explore.

We bounced from gift shop to restaurant, perusing all the lovely-looking menus, past the sweet store and ice cream parlour (making a note to return in summer), before turning the corner to find the beautiful Victorian Christmas Shop — a treasure trove for the festive-obsessed among us, myself included.

Coffees long gone, we treated ourselves to a pint or two by the fire at The Old New Inn, and wiled away the afternoon playing cards and debating where to eat that evening.

Bourton-on-the-Water leaves you completely spoilt for choice when it comes to food. With Smiths, the award-winning burger joint, two Italians, a Chinese, chippie and pizza spot, it’s almost impossible to agree.

After much debate, we opted for one of the lovely village pubs, The Willow, which has a huge garden overlooking the river.

This hostelry does pub classics properly, including a top-notch fish served with suitably crunchy chips (£19.95) and a traditional steak and mushroom pie loaded with moreish gravy (£19.50). The roast dinners looked good, too. Although those are best saved for Sundays.

Ahead of filling your belly, a Sunday in the Cotswolds is best spent strolling the scenic landscapes — and this time we decided to venture beyond the confines of the village.

A gentle, winding footpath guided us through the countryside towards the twin villages of Lower Slaughter and Upper Slaughter.

The peaceful, 1.5-mile route takes you along the banks of the River Eye, past wildflower meadows and yet more honey-coloured cottages.

The tranquillity of Lower Slaughter (despite its name) is what struck us most, especially when compared to its tourist hotspot neighbour. Crowds were minimal and all that could be heard was the chirp of birds and a gentle stream.

If you’d like to fuel here ahead of your walk back, Slaughters Country Inn is known for its excellent roasts.

Cosying up inside by the fire, we enjoyed another well-earned drink before ducking low ceilings to get to the restaurant, where we were met by giant Yorkshires, roast beef and all the trimmings.

Skip dessert, though, and end your meal at the Hawkstone Brewery instead — another gem we can thank Jeremy Clarkson for.

It’s less Aperol spritz and more traditional English pints — mine with an elderflower twist. The perfect way to toast an autumn escape.

It may even top Venice . . .