cosy

A detective series set in the 1940s is returning for a second series and viewers will be hooked

The star of a detective drama perfect for Sherlock Holmes and Agatha Christie fans has teased what viewers can expect from the new series.

Created by and starring Mark Gatiss, Bookish follows an unconventional book shop owner who helps police solve crimes in 1946.

It started last year, with viewers charmed by the “excellent” and “cosy” U&alibi drama, and is set to return for a second series next month.

Mark, who plays main character Gabriel Book, has shared a few details with Radio Times ahead of the show’s second run, hinting at some “dangers” ahead.

Gabriel is gay and married to his best friend Trottie, who is played by Bridgerton star Polly Walker, and the relationship has worked out.

But Mark has now hinted that there will be some bumps in the road when Bookish returns to screens in August.

“Their arrangement suits them both, but it’s not without its dangers,” he said. “We’ll see a bit of that, and we do see a bit more of it fraying at the edges.”

The star also teased that the new series will be “more intriguing emotionally”, adding: “Some of the secrets are unlocked and some questions are answered.”

Fans can expect more mysterious cases, with a synopsis for the upcoming episodes revealing: “In series two, the bibliophile sleuth investigates the world of spiritualism as he helps to solve a baffling case involving medium Harold Sneed (Jason Watkins) and a séance full of secrets.

“Off Savile Row, Inspector Bliss (Elliot Levey) asks Book (Connor Finch) to help in a puzzling crime at a gentleman’s outfitters – the elderly tailor Maxie Kleinmann (Allan Corduner) is keen to confess to murder but the evidence doesn’t quite stack up and points to something much more complex and sinister.”

Book and Jack are also sent to the seemingly charming German village of Würl by the mysterious ‘E’, who is played by Simon Callow, in order to thwart a thieving duchess who is portrayed by Miranda Richardson.

“However, festivities take a deadly turn when Book and Jack uncover secrets of their own in a castle brimming with shady characters,” the synopsis continued.

Bookish returns on U&Alibi in August

COSY pub rooms, fantastic British food and nearby hikes – all the makings of a quintessential UK break.

So here’s everything you need to know about staying at the Welldiggers Arms.

Where is the Welldiggers Arms?

On the outskirts of beautiful Petworth in Sussex, there are stunning views of the rolling South Downs National Park through the picture windows while enjoying the warm and cosy interiors.

What’s the hotel like?

The pub with rooms is packed with traditional country charm and a healthy dose of ‘sink into an armchair’ comfortable chic.

Recently refurbished, while the stone building might be 300 years old the décor is up to date.

Original features include the original namesake water well. Think enveloping and relaxing rural style.

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What are the rooms like?

The fourteen rooms – including dog and child friendly options – are all beautifully appointed and decked out with the kind of furnishings that look like they’ve been there forever, but you know that someone has given them a great deal of thought.

Think muted and matt rustic paint colours, patterned upholstery, Bramley toiletries and ‘spare room at a country house’ vibes.

Sizes range from Snug doubles to Signatures with private terraces. Or book the Superior suite and you’ll even find a claw rooted bath at the foot of the bed.

Choose between sleeping above the pub itself or if you prefer more peaceful acoustics opt for the annexe alongside.

It’s worth noting that not all have rolling green views, with some bedrooms overlooking the road alongside.

Rooms start from £99 per night, including breakfast. A Muddy Paws dog-friendly package starts from £130, including sausage brekkie for your mutt. See butcombe.com/the-welldiggers-arms-west-sussex/

What is there to eat and drink at the hotel?

Locals flock here to enjoy the delicious gastropub fare on offer so definitely stay put.

There’s a delicious, ever-changing menu of fresh and seasonal British dishes with as much produce as possible sourced locally.

From the bread with whipped butter to fish and chips with booze-laced Butcombe ale batter you are in for a treat.

The Sunday roast is famous – best enjoyed by a roaring fire if you can snag a coveted table.

Make sure you leave room for a pudding too as interesting ingredients have been used to give some classic choices a contemporary twist.

Try the Sticky Toffee Carrot Pudding, or perhaps the Yuze Crème Brulee.

What else is there?

As well as the incredible walks on your doorstep there’s plenty of other places to explore nearby.

National Trust owned Petworth House, with its famous deer park and a famed art collection, is just a short two mile drive away.

History buffs can devour the medieval displays at nearby Arundel Castle.

Shopaholics will be spoilt for interesting independent shops to browse in the picturesque town of Petworth itself.

Is it family friendly?

Families will definitely find the Welldiggers Arms to be family friendly with kids menus and ground floor rooms for easy access – so no dragging strollers up and down stairs. 

Is there access for guests with disabilities?

Guests with needs for easy access will be able to find a selection of ground floor rooms with walk-in showers. 

It is recommended to contact the bookings team before your stay to ensure your trip to Welldiggers Arms is as comfortable as possible. 

READY to swap the school run for a family getaway?

Young’s Rooms is giving one lucky reader the chance to win a two-night family escape to The Crown in Chertsey, the ultimate home-away-from-home conveniently located near the thrills of Thorpe Park and a 20-minute drive from Chessington World of Adventures.

Forget cookie-cutter corporate rooms, The Crown in Chertsey promises comfort and personality.

Think beautifully-designed bedrooms with plenty of space for the whole crew to kick back and relax.

While grown-ups can enjoy bubble baths and honesty bars, kids will be kept occupied with their very own ‘Borrow Boxes’, brimming with books, toys, activities and games to keep the boredom at bay.

Downstairs, the pub is the heart of the action.

Whether you’re fuelling up with a hearty breakfast or tucking into a three-course feast of homemade pies and fresh seafood, it’s all about seasonal British produce that deliver on flavour.

And yes, the Sunday roasts come with bottomless Yorkshires and gravy – enough to satisfy even the hungriest little explorers!

The prize is:

• Two-night stay for a family of four at The Crown in Chertsey
• Three course meal per person, including a bottle of wine of up to £50 value for adults, and juices and soft drinks for kids (as guided by GM) on one evening
• Family breakfast before checkout on both days

Enter below and good luck!

To win, enter using the form below by 11:59pm on July 4, 2026.

For full terms and conditions, click here.

IF you’re looking for an affordable stay that ticks all the boxes, a Premier Inn is one of the best.

Here is everything you need to staying at the Arundel hotel in Sussex.

Where is the Premier Inn Arundel?

This charming Premier Inn nestled on the edge of the South Downs, feels more like a cosy, country hotel than a convenient pit stop to explore East Sussex.

On the outskirts of Arundel, the hotel faces picturesque fields and is very conveniently located to explore Arundel Cathedral and Arundel Castle.

Both are less than a ten-minute drive away. 

What are the rooms like?

Premier Inn pride themselves on offering budget-friendly comfort in over 800 locations, and this country hotel is no different.

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Rooms, set over two floors, are simple but spacious, with double, twin, family and accessible options.

Considering the very competitive price for the area, the Hypnos beds are supremely comfortable and guests get a choice of firm or soft pillows.

With only 31 rooms, the stay was very peaceful too.

Double rooms from £113 per night. See premierinn.com to book

What is there to eat and drink?

The hotel has partnered with the Beefeater restaurant next door, offering meal deals for guests.

The offer includes a two-course evening meal, with a drink. Then, in the morning, breakfast is also included.

If you are travelling as a family, it’s even better value, as two kids eat breakfast for free, per adult.

If you want to venture into Arundel itself, the Black Rabbit pub is a local favourite.

Set on the River Arun near Arundel Castle, the pub has pretty views over the water and a great menu.

The sunday roast dinners are especially good. Arundel is also known for its quaint tea rooms.

Belinda’s has exceptional cakes and a cute outside terrace, if you can get a seat. 

What else is there to do there?

Being a Premier Inn, don’t expect any other frills like spas and gyms, so you are best to explore the local area.

As well as exploring historic Arundel, the location is an ideal base for Goodwood Races and you are around 20-minutes from the closest beach.

The free on-site parking is also a bonus, as most people come in by car. 

Is it family friendly?

Kids get to eat for free at Premier Inn hotels, and there are spacious family rooms you can book as well that sleep up to four people.

Is it accessible?

There are accessible rooms with wide entry bathrooms at the hotel.