Crystal

The crystal grotto is located inside the grounds of a park within the village, and it’s a real must-see if you’re visiting this summer

The UK boasts a wealth of stunning beauty spots, but one location that is definitely worth a visit this summer is Cobham in Surrey.

It was voted the second most desirable place to live in the UK by the Telegraph last year, thanks to its relaxing atmosphere, gorgeous scenery and wide range of pubs, shops and independent eateries.

This charming village is the perfect place to spend the day exploring, eating and drinking, especially if the weather is nice. Painshill Park is a particularly lovely spot, and it’s home to a famous crystal grotto that is the perfect place to take pictures.

Surrey Live writer Laura Nightingale finally paid it a visit after wanting to go for years, and she was not disappointed. With her husband and daughter in tow, they headed to the park by car and got ready to enjoy their family day out.

She said: “I was invited to the 18th Century landscaped garden to celebrate the start of the school summer holidays, and we headed straight to the grotto.

“We picked up a map from the ticket office and followed the accessible path around the lake, keeping the large open water to our right hand side.”

The grotto was a 15 minute walk away, and en route, they passed the Mr Hamilton’s tearoom, a play area and a beautiful vineyard slope.

To her daughter’s delight, they also spotted a gaggle of ducks, especially as they got closer to the island housing the magical grotto.

Laura continued: “We strolled over the Woolett Bridge (there is another entrance via the Chinese Bridge on the other side of the lake but that was closed when we visited), to reach the naturalistic cave with shimmering, bubbling water, rough rock and stalactites covered in sparkling crystals.

It was a breath-taking sight. We parked the buggy outside on a patch of grass, and ventured inside the incredible man-made feature. Fellow adults stood in awe of the enchanting sight, and there was an eerie silence inside as we were captivated by its charm.”

It’s a haven for Instagrammers, offering countless picturesque spots for capturing the perfect shot. On sunny days, beams of light shine the interior through strategically positioned openings in the ceiling.

This illumination causes the crystals to twinkle as it reflects off the coral pools and lake water, which Laura described as ‘simply sensational’.

After exploring the grotto, they retrieved the pram and crossed the bridge to complete the tour around the scenic lake.

They managed to spot the Turkish Tent and the grand Gothic Temple on the return journey to the gift shop. King George III, during his visit years ago, said the view from the building was his favourite.

Raving about the park, Laura concluded: “I thought Painshill Park was a great place to take the kids during the school summer holidays. Not only will the grotto amaze youngsters, the site is just so convenient and easy to get around.

“Parking is free, there are toilets, a café, coffee shop, plenty of places to roll out a picnic blanket (in the sunshine or under the trees), a play park and a clean, flat path to push a pram.”

In their appeal Palace have requested an annulment of the decision by Uefa’s financial control body and readmission to the Europa League in place of either Forest or Lyon.

A decision is expected on or before 11 August, with the Europa League group stage beginning on 24 September.

The rules of European football’s governing body state that clubs owned, to a certain threshold of influence, by the same person or entity cannot compete in the same European competition.

Uefa’s rules set a deadline of 1 March 2025 to show proof of multi-club ownership restructuring – a deadline Palace missed.

Palace argued Textor does not hold any decisive influence at the club, but Uefa did not accept the Premier League club’s defence.

Speaking to The Rest is Football, external podcast last week, Palace chairman Steve Parish said he was “very hopeful” the decision would be overturned.

“We don’t think this is the right decision by any means. We know, unequivocally, that John [Textor] didn’t have decisive influence over the club,” he said.

“We know we proved that beyond all reasonable doubt because it’s a fact.”

Not too far from the UK’s capital, there’s a coastal gem that bears a striking resemblance to the gorgeous and dreamy Mediterranean Greek island – but it’s cheaper

Escaping the city for a couple of days and going to a paradise with poor phone signals and ocean views is something many of us dream about. Now, with the cost of living cutting short our annual trips, who said there’s a need to fly out of the country? Walking sandal experts FitFlop found the UK’s best lookalike locations to dreamy destinations like Italy, Greece, India, Iceland and even the Caribbean.

A five-hour drive from London to Cornwall will take you to a magical place with gorgeous coastline and crystal clear waters. Called Pedn Vounder Beach in Cornwall, it has positioned itself as one of the must-visit places this summer.

Nestled among the cliffs of Treryn Dinas in Cornwall lies one of the most beautiful beaches. Interestingly, but not surprisingly, Big 7 Travel named Pedn Vounder Beach as one of the must-visit beach destinations in 2023, competing against well-known holiday spots like South Africa and Iceland.

Cornwall’s hidden gem

The site wrote: “Tucked beneath rugged cliffs near the famous Logan Rock, Pedn Vounder is a tidal beach that looks more Mediterranean than British. Its crystal clear turquoise waters and soft white sands are reminiscent of Greek islands like Zakynthos or Sardinia’s Costa Smeralda.”

“At low tide, a sandy causeway connects it to neighbouring Porthcurno Beach, adding to the magical, untouched feel. With more than 40,000 monthly Google searches for ‘Greece holiday’, this Cornish gem is a hidden hack for a faux Grecian staycation.”

The famous Logan Rock, a 80-ton rock stone located on the east headland of the beach, is known for its turquoise waters and picturesque views. It’s a good area for those who love outdoor activities, such as walking and hiking.

However, if you’re looking for a quiet holiday, you might want to reconsider visiting during the summer months. Pedn Vounder Beach is extra busy during the holidays, and, of course, when the temperatures go above 20 degrees Celsius.

With a 4.4 rating out of five stars on TripAdvisor, visitors seem to have been left impressed. Many were happy to enjoy swimming, tanning and participating in water activities.

One holidaymaker said: “The beach cove really is gorgeous, the water is crystal clear and a stunning turquoise colour, you wouldn’t believe it’s in the UK!” A second one added: “Beautiful, unspoiled beach, much quieter than other beaches because it is not easy to get to.”

Pedn Vounder Beach is not easy to get to

Although it’s one of the most remote spots in Cornwall, it’s always been one of the most popular to visit. However, those who wish to dip in the beautiful waters and lie down in the white sand have to be careful, as it can be dangerous to get there.

The majority of comments recommended that future visitors wear appropriate clothing and footwear, as it might be tricky. The review continued: “The last bit requires you to climb, literally, holding on with both faces, face to the rock and being very careful not to slip or you risk falling 5 or 6 meters onto hard rock. Proper shoes are a must, plus a rucksack with your stuff, you don’t want anything in your hands.”

So, if you’re heading to Cornwall this summer, don’t drive past Pedn Vounder Beach. It might be challenging, but it’s so worth it.

The Isles of Scilly are just 28 miles off the coast of Cornwall and have some of the warmest weather in the UK. There are five main islands and hundreds of beaches to explore

If you’re yearning for a Caribbean-style getaway with pristine seas, white sandy beaches and tropical weather, you might not have to travel as far as you think. You don’t need to splash out on long-haul flights to soak up the Caribbean vibes; there’s an archipelago just off the English coast that offers all this and more.

The Isles of Scilly, situated a mere 28 miles from the Cornish coast, boast some of the UK’s most temperate climates.

With five main islands and countless beaches to discover, visitors can indulge in a plethora of water sports including kayaking, diving, sailing, swimming and windsurfing.

On dry land, there’s no shortage of awe-inspiring sights to behold, from ancient ruins and stunning gardens to an intriguing maze.

St Mary’s, the largest island in the group, covers just over six square miles and is home to approximately 1,800 inhabitants.

This particular island holds a special place in the hearts of the Royal Family.

The Prince and Princess of Wales have been known to whisk their children away here for their summer holidays, reports the Express.

They’ve also been spotted on Tresco, the second largest island, which houses the renowned Tresco Abby Gardens.

This breathtaking location is home to 20,000 species of sub-tropical plants and flowers, creating a tranquil paradise perfect for a day of exploration.

Tresco is a designated area of outstanding natural beauty, and to maintain its unspoilt charm, it is completely car-free; electric buggies or bicycles are the preferred modes of transport around the island.

Alternatively, public transport is available, or, if you prefer, you could simply stroll around and enjoy the best the island has to offer.

If you’re keen to explore this heavenly spot, Discover Ferries suggests journeying to Tresco via St Mary’s by sea from Penzance between March and November with Isle of Scilly Travel.

A group of Liberal Democrat MPs have asked the culture secretary Lisa Nandy to intervene over Uefa’s “disgraceful” decision to demote Crystal Palace from the Europa League for breaching its multi-club ownership rules.

The seven politicians from London – including party leader Sir Ed Davey – wrote to express “deep concern” over what they called “a highly unusual and severe punishment on the club that raises serious questions about fairness and transparency in the governance of English football”.

The Eagles, who qualified for the Europa League by winning the FA Cup – their first major trophy – in May, were demoted to the lower tier Conference League on Friday.

The rules of European football’s governing body state that clubs owned, to a certain threshold of influence, by the same person or entity cannot compete in the same European competition.

American businessman John Textor owns a stake in Palace and is the majority owner of French club Lyon, who have also qualified for the Europa League.

Uefa’s rules set a deadline of 1 March 2025 to show proof of multi-club ownership restructuring – a deadline which Palace missed.

In a letter seen by BBC Sport, the group of Lib Dems described the saga as “heart-breaking for fans”.

“Other clubs seem to go through much more protracted disputes with less severe outcomes,” they said.

“Many believe that this process has been opaque and disproportionately punitive [and] risks undermining not only the club’s achievement but also public confidence in the fairness of football governance.”

Crystal Palace supporters have staged a protest against Uefa’s decision to demote the club to the Conference League.

On Tuesday, hundreds of fans marched to Palace’s Selhurst Park ground carrying banners and chanting against European football’s governing body.

The Eagles, who qualified for the Europa League by winning the FA Cup in May – their first major trophy – were demoted to the lower tier of Uefa competition after breaching multi-club ownership rules.

American businessman John Textor owns a stake in Crystal Palace and is the majority owner of French club Lyon, who have also qualified for the Europa League.

The rules of European football’s governing body state clubs owned, to a certain threshold of influence, by the same person or entity cannot compete in the same European competition.

Uefa’s rules set a deadline of 1 March 2025 to show proof of multi-club ownership restructuring – a deadline which Palace missed.

Textor is currently in the process of selling his stake in Crystal Palace to New York Jets owner Woody Johnson.

Nottingham Forest, who finished seventh in the Premier League last season, are set to replace Palace in the Europa League.

Palace are expected to take their case to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (Cas).

“At the end of the day it’s an injustice, just by a couple of admin errors. We qualified for it,” Nick Philpot from the Red and Blue Review podcast said at the march.

“We won the cup – it should be we go into it without any question about it.

“You’re penalising the entire club and the fanbase. Why would you do that?”

Last week, Crystal Palace chairman Steve Parish called the decision “a bad day for football” and “a terrible injustice”.

“We’ve been locked out of a European competition on the most ridiculous technicality,” he said. “Supporters of all clubs should be devastated for us.”

Uefa has been approached for comment.

Hout Bay in Cape Town is a stunning seaside spot that’s a must-visit for anyone travelling to South Africa – but there’s a near-perfect alternative much closer to home

A Welsh coastal gem bears a striking resemblance to the breathtaking Hout Bay in Cape Town, South Africa.

With its spectacular scenery and crystal-clear azure waters, Hout Bay has established itself as an essential destination for travellers exploring South Africa. Yet there’s a remarkably similar shoreline much nearer to home for holidaymakers seeking an affordable getaway.

North Wales’s Porthdinllaen, featuring the magnificent Morfa Nefyn Beach, serves as Britain’s answer to Hout Bay, according to staycation specialists at holidaycottages.co.uk.

Both Porthdinllaen and Hout Bay are enchanting coastal settlements renowned for their golden sandy shores and dramatic clifftops, each boasting a lively local character with thriving harbours.

Porthdinllaen, much like its South African counterpart, provides an ideal spot for wildlife observation, and whilst you won’t encounter any penguins as some fortunate Hout Bay visitors have, there’s still an abundance of creatures to discover, including seals, sand martins, and oystercatchers.

The Welsh coastal destination also appeals to those eager to enjoy a dip in the ocean or participate in more thrilling water activities such as kayaking and snorkelling.

Visitors to Porthdinllaen must make sure to grab a bite at The Ty Coch Inn, a quaint red-brick establishment situated on its own stretch of sandy coastline, which has been described as “world-class” and “magical” by guests. Dog owners will be chuffed to hear that Morfa Nefyn is a dog-friendly beach, but do remember to keep your furry friend on a lead near the Ty Coch area.

The beach has been showered with praise on TripAdvisor, with one holidaymaker commenting: “Fantastic views, beautiful beach. Ideal for kayaking and paddle boarding. Lovely pub on the beach selling good homemade food. Naturally gets busy at peak times, bank holidays etc.”

Another visitor remarked: “I thought that this was a particularly good beach. It had sand, sea, boats, old buildings and mountainous views. It is definitely worth a go, if you are out that way.”

A third reviewer shared: “We were staying in a nearby holiday cottage and had a quiet, scenic, pleasant walk on a January morning. With it being out of season, it was pleasant having the entire place to ourselves for the walk. Would be lovely to visit again in better weather and with a picnic.”

Crystal Palace co-owner John Textor has said he feared the club’s participation in Europe would be in doubt moments after they won the FA Cup in May.

Textor’s involvement with both Palace and French club Lyon looks set to cost the Eagles a spot in the Europa League under Uefa’s rules governing multi-club ownership.

Textor has agreed to sell his 43% stake in Palace to fellow American Woody Johnson, who owns NFL team the New York Jets.

Asked what he went through his mind after Palace beat Manchester City at Wembley, Textor told Talksport: “I was very happy, but I felt the gravity of it. And I was concerned on the same day holding the cup next to the Prince [William].

“It was a great moment and I couldn’t have been happier for the fans, but yeah, I was worried about what was coming.”

This week Lyon won an appeal against their relegation from Ligue 1 because of the club’s poor financial state.

French football authorities demoted the seven-time champions into Ligue 2 last month, but that decision has been overturned.

It could affect Palace’s chances of playing in the Europa League next season as Lyon have also qualified for the competition, with Uefa set to rule on the situation at the end of the week.

Textor stressed that while he has “helped” the club, his role at Selhurst Park has not been a majorly active one.

“I help a lot. I showed up during Covid and paid off Covid debt. I helped finish the academy,” he added.

“I am sitting there on the board with four other guys. Steve Parish is making the decisions and bringing us players. He involves us but he doesn’t really listen to us.

“A suggestion from time to time is not the same as decisive influence.”

Brits looking for hot and sunny holiday destinations won’t need to go far with Europe’s sunniest beach less than 5 hours away – and with plenty of cheap flights available

Brits looking for sun, sea and sand on their holidays may want to consider a trip to Europe’s ‘sunniest beach’ where they’ll find balmy temperatures of 32C and a daily average of 10h 26m of sunshine.

Ölüdeniz Beach in Fethiye, Turkey, has been crowned as the must-visit for sun-seekers, impressing not only with its weather but also its golden sands and swim-friendly waters. In fact, those azure shores are also home to the iconic ‘Blue Lagoon’ that you’ll no doubt have seen in your social media feeds.

The breathtaking coastal spot topped new rankings from the experts at Saga Holidays, who looked at factors such as sunshine hours and average temperatures across both high seasons and low seasons. (So whether or not you’re tied to the school holidays, you can enjoy a sun-soaked getaway!).

The nearest airport to the beach is Dalaman, which is about a 45-minute drive from Ölüdeniz Beach. The good news for Brits is that there are heaps of budget-friendly flights to Dalaman direct from the UK. For example, easyJet has flights from £17.99 each way, while Ryanair has one-way flights from £29.99 in August. In fact, you can find returns from £54 according to Skyscanner, although it’s worth noting that the cheapest rates often don’t include extra hand luggage allowance.

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It’s not just the sunshine that makes Ölüdeniz Beach a must-visit for the summer holidays. The Blue Flag beach boasts postcard-worthy turquoise waters, fine sandy shores, and a lush green backdrop that wouldn’t be out of place in a storybook. Of course a beautiful beach like this is always popular, so it’s worth noting that it can get quite busy during the peak summer months.

There are three sandy parts to the beach – one of which is free – but for the other two there’s a small entry fee if you want to visit, with some amenities available such as sunbeds you can hire, and a series of watersports to enjoy (again you’ll need to pay an extra fee if you want to hire equipment for the likes of paddleboarding or kayaking).

On Tripadvisor the beach gets a mixed bag of reviews. Although visitors all generally agree that it’s beautiful and the surrounding mountains make for a beautiful backdrop, because the beach has become so famous, some holidaymakers have slammed the beach for getting too crowded. If you want to check it out for yourself, then it’s well worth getting up early so you can enjoy the quieter moments of the day before the larger crowds arrive.

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Alternatively you could visit in low season between November and April when temperatures range around 19C – so while it may be a little chilly for getting into the water, you can still enjoy those breathtaking views while out on a scenic stroll.

It wasn’t the only beach to impress in Saga’s rankings. Anthony Quinn Bay on the Greek island of Rhodes came a close second with a three-minute difference in terms of hours of sunshine, and 32C temperatures during the peak summer months.

You can check out the full list of Europe’s top 10 sunniest beaches below:

1. Ölüdeniz Beach (Blue Lagoon), Fethiye
2. Anthony Quinn Bay, Rhodes
3. Nissi Beach, Ayia Napa
4. Playa de las Teresitas, Tenerife
5. Agia Fotia Beach, Crete
6. Playa de Maspalomas, Gran Canaria
7. Lay’s Mile Beach, Limassol
8. Elafonissi Beach, Crete
9. Tsamadou Beach, Samos
10. Praia do Barril, Tavira

Do you have a holiday story you want to share with us? Email us at [email protected].

A beach in the UK has been compared to the stunning shores of Majorca and Ibiza, thanks to its breathtaking scenery. One visitor recently described her trip to this much-loved destination.

A woman exploring the UK in search of its most scenic locations recently highlighted a stunning Cornish beach. Cornwall, with its array of beautiful shores and natural landscapes, draws tourists from all over Britain and beyond.

Cornwall is a beloved holiday spot in the UK, famed for its coastline, idyllic beaches, vibrant surfing scene, and attractions like the Eden Project and Tintagel Castle. British holidaymakers flock to the county for seaside escapades with their partners, families, or friends during the summer months, and Cornwall never disappoints. Lizzy Parkin, a travel blogger based in the Cotswolds, took to TikTok to share her latest coastal discovery in Cornwall.

She began by saying: “I’m on a mission to find places across the UK that make people say ‘I can’t believe this is the UK’ because as Brits, me included, we love to be negative about our own home but I’m trying to change that by sharing places that are undeniably beautiful and we’re starting strong with a spot near Penzance in Cornwall.”

Lizzy enthused: “This gem of a beach looks straight out of Majorca or Ibiza if you ask me, though the water is a little colder.”

She also mentioned that it’s “located on the most beautiful coastal path” but cautioned that the walk down isn’t the easiest, involving a “short scramble” to reach the beach, so she advised potential visitors to tread carefully when heading to this location.

The travel fan called the scenery on the way down to the beach “absolutely unreal” and revealed that it is Pedn Vounder Beach, found near the village of Treen in Cornwall.

Nestled among the cliffs of Treryn Dinas, Pedn Vounder boasts crystal clear turquoise waters and white sands.

Cornwall Beaches recognises it as West Cornwall’s most famous spot for naturism, but Lizzy noted in her TikTok post’s comments that the beach was mostly full of visitors wearing swimsuits and a sign indicates it’s not entirely a nudist beach.

Cornwall Beaches explains that Pedn Vounder lies at the eastern end of Porthcurno cove, with the renowned Logan Rock perched atop the headland to the east, a massive granite boulder delicately balanced on the cliff tops of Treen.

Lizzy’s TikTok footage showcasing the breathtaking beauty of Pedn Vounder Beach has racked up 412,000 views, 45,000 likes, and over 200 comments so far.

One user raved: “Pedn Vounder is the best beach in the UK. Took my breath away when I first saw it recently. As good as any beach anywhere in the world!”

Another commented: “Just got back from Thailand and Pedn Vounder was as beautiful as.”

A third was astounded: “I can’t believe this is the UK!!! Wow.” And a fourth echoed: “Okay but I can’t believe this is the UK.”

Travel influencer Chloe Lawford shared a video of the picture-perfect beach she visited in the UK that’s only accessible via a network of historic tunnels

Finding postcard-worthy beaches in the UK might seem like a tough task. Nevertheless, wanderlust spirit Chloe Lawford, a travel blogger, has discovered a stunning, secluded coastal gem that’s just perfect for those warm summer days. Situated behind a historical network of tunnels, this hideaway boasts crystal-clear waters and an atmosphere of tranquillity.

This year, the avid adventurer made her way to this enchanting spot for a relaxed seaside picnic and a refreshing dip, resulting in a truly breathtaking excursion. Documenting her experience on TikTok (@chloelawfordtravels), she disclosed: “After paying a small fee to enter, you access the beach through these long tunnels.

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“The first set of tunnels leads you out to the Gentleman’s Beach, which is on the left and there is a wedding venue here. But you can continue going through more tunnels to get to the Ladies Beach on the right.

“This was the more popular beach and it’s where the swimming pool normally is when the tide is out. But we opted to head back up to the Gentleman’s Beach as it was much quieter and it was like our own private little beach.”

Chloe enthusiastically recommends Tunnels Beaches, hidden away on the Ilfracombe coastline in Devon, reports the Express. Conveniently located within a two-hour drive from Exeter, this idyllic destination is also close to other noteworthy locations such as Woolacombe and Wildersmouth Beach.

Niche Museums sheds light on the history of Tunnels Beaches, dating back to the 1820s when droves of Welsh miners took two years to hew six tunnels into the Ilfracombe hillside.

This massive undertaking was part of North Devon’s initiative to cement its reputation as an ideal holiday locale, creating pathways for tourists to tread or coach their way to the seaside.

Currently, adult admission to Tunnels Beaches is modestly priced at £3.75 for those aged 16 and up, whilst tiny tots under three enjoy free entry. Prices for children aged three to 15 are set at an affordable £3.

Budget-conscious visitors can take advantage of the discounts on offer for students and seniors, not forgetting the family deals available to sweeten the deal – though do note, they only accept card payments on-site.

“It was such a lovely day and the water was super clear,” enthused Chloe, sharing her experience. “[…]We had a little picnic and then went for a swim, although there were lots of jellyfish in the water, so we didn’t brave too long of a swim and we sort of had a quick dip.

“However, it was still super refreshing. If you find yourself in Devon, don’t miss out on popping by this beach when the sun’s beaming down.”

Chloe’s glowing recommendation swiftly turned heads on TikTok, with numerous others on the platform echoing praise for the site’s splendour.

A resident nearby commented: “This is down the bottom of my road, I have a season ticket and spend every day I can there! Bliss.”

Meanwhile, a second person shared their own memories, exclaiming: “Omg I’ve been there it was so cool but more rocky then sandy.”

New York Jets owner Woody Johnson has signed a “legally binding contract” to buy John Textor’s 43% stake in Crystal Palace in a deal believed to be worth close to £190m.

Palace confirmed the news in a statement on Monday, but it has yet to be announced whether it boosts the club’s fight to be cleared to play in next season’s Europa League.

Palace said the deal is pending approval from the Premier League and Women’s Super League.

“We do not envisage any issues and look forward to welcoming Woody as a partner and director of the club,” the south London club added.

“We would like to go on record to thank John Textor for his contribution over the past four years and wish him every success for the future.”

Eagle Football Holdings – the multi-club company owned by Textor – bought a stake in Palace in 2021 for around £90m.

Johnson, like any such major investor, will have to pass the Premier League’s owners’ and directors’ test.

It is understood that the American businessman indicated he can transfer the funds quickly.

This is believed to have been a crucial factor in why his offer was favoured ahead of two other interested parties, given the predicament in which Palace find themselves with European football’s governing body Uefa regarding their 2025-26 Europa League entry.

Palace could lose their spot in Europe, earned by winning last season’s FA Cup, on the basis of Textor’s perceived involvement at Selhurst Park.

Uefa has been considering whether Palace breach its rules about multiple teams under one multi-club ownership structure competing in the same European competition.

This is because Textor has a stake in French club Lyon, who also qualified for the Europa League.

Whether the process of Textor selling his stake in Palace influences Uefa’s final decision remains to be seen.

But it does provide an indication the businessman is open to severing ties with Palace, an eventual scenario that could allow the Premier League club entry into the Europa League.

The other two parties in the running are unconfirmed but well-placed sources have indicated that a globally-renowned entertainment giant based in Florida have shown an interest, while another consortium that includes the NBA star Jimmy Butler also have a reported interest.

Investment vehicle Sportsbank – who were named as the preferred bidder to buy into Eagle at a time Textor was looking for investment – have also shown an interest in making an offer.

However, it is claimed that it would have taken around a month for Sportsbank to draw the financial contributions from their investors from the Middle East and the US which would not suit Textor’s need for a quick sale to help aid Palace’s case with Uefa.

Sources claim that Johnson is best placed among the interested parties to pass the Premier League’s owner’s and directors test given his estimated £3.39bn fortune and his status as globally-renowned businessman. He is the heir to the Johnson & Johnson pharmaceutical company.

Uefa are expected to make a decision on whether Palace can participate in the Europa League by the end of June.

Crystal Palace’s Justin Devenny said he relished the challenge of playing a new position for Northern Ireland in their 2-1 friendly defeat by Denmark on Saturday.

The game in Copenhagen saw manager Michael O’Neill pick the 21-year-old to start at wing-back for the first time at international level.

Devenny, who won the FA Cup with Oliver Glasner’s side this season, performed admirably throughout, creating Northern Ireland’s early goal while also managing the threat posed by Lazio’s Gustav Isaksen.

“It was a new position for me but I enjoyed it and wherever I play for the team I’m willing to do a shift,” he said of what was his fourth cap.

“Michael had told me he was thinking of playing me there and we did a few bits and bobs in training. To be fair, I’m familiar with it from Palace as well.

“I know the roles and responsibilities of it and it’s just putting that into place.”

O’Neill has previously played the right-footed Brodie Spencer on the left side of his backline with the Huddersfield Town man performing well in recent internationals.

The manager thought that Devenny’s comfort on the ball gave his side a “nice outlet” at Parken Stadium.

“I thought he did really well,” O’Neill said.

“He’s got his hands full against a winger that obviously causes you a lot of problems. Justin’s a midfield player but he’s left-sided and I thought he dealt with it very, very well.

“He gave us a nice outlet on the left-hand side as well in terms of his use of the ball, so he was a big, big positive.”

The Caribbean may be out of your budget this year, but if you want a beach break that’s a little closer to home, you might want to consider this stunning UK destination

If you’re looking for a beach getaway on a budget, you might want to consider this UK destination that ‘looks like the Caribbean’ thanks to its white sand beaches and vibrant blue water.

Located on the Isle of Harris in Scotland‘s Outer Hebrides, Luskentyre Beach is hailed as one of Europe’s most beautiful shorelines. It is one of Harris’ largest stretches of coast and also one of the most jaw-dropping shorelines, even earning it a spot among the UK’s top beaches as per the TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards. People who live on this remote island are proud to call it home, especially when they can enjoy the beach year-round – often without crowds of tourists.

A woman named Caz took to TikTok to show off the beach’s beauty in a video, leaving viewers wondering if they’re looking at Scotland or a much sunnier destination.

“Scotland? Or the Caribbean?” Caz wrote on the video before sharing clips of her and her friends enjoying a day at the beach.

The video included shots of them all diving into the crystal-clear water and playing football on the shore.

The Isle of Harris has been basking in a spell of good weather, boasting sun-soaked days with warmer temperatures in the run-up to summer.

This welcome change has allowed residents to spend time on their beach ahead of the busy tourist season in the peak of summer.

The video capturing these sunny scenes garnered over 2.5million views in just three days, prompting some viewers to fantasise about enjoying the beach themselves.

However, some remained sceptical about the location of the beach, as they couldn’t quite believe it was right on their doorstep.

“This is not Scotland,” one person said, while another asked: “Where the hell are you finding beaches like this in Scotland.”

Nevertheless, the doubts were quickly put to rest by several people who had visited Luskentyre themselves. These visitors were quick to share their own experiences of the beautiful beach.

“Luv Luskentyre beach it’s gorgeous xx,” declared one fan, while another added: “Scotland! I live in Scotland and me and family went there at one point! Gorgeous place!”

“Just remember, that water is cold enough to send you into shock if you’re not careful,” said another. Meanwhile someone else chimed in with, “Might look like Caribbean but temp is far from it.”

According to Hidden Scotland, late spring and summer are the best times to pay a visit to Luskentyre beach. At this time of year you will get the warmest weather, vital for any successful beach day. The ‘lingering light’ at this time of year also creates beautiful views of the surrounding landscape that are hard to beat.

The picturesque city of Canterbury in Kent is home to a series of stunning waterways, offering visitors the chance to explore its famous landmarks from a unique perspective

Picture yourself drifting through the historic streets of Canterbury, effortlessly cruising on the pristine waters in a classic punt, basking in the warm glow of the sun. In this charming corner of Kent, visitors are treated to the tranquil pleasure of a guided canal tour along the idyllic River Stour.

As you nestle into your seat, a well-versed guide will enchant you with stories of the city’s storied past, highlighting notable sights such as time-worn bridges, picturesque weaver’s cottages, theatres, ancient monasteries and peaceful orchards. The journey also reveals some of Canterbury’s more sombre tales, including the grim beheading of an unfortunate priest and the harrowing tale of a mill engulfed by flames.

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The roughly 45-minute excursion provides a distinctive vantage point of Canterbury’s lesser-known treasures, with one visitor lauding the experience for its “crystal clear waters, beautiful buildings, plants and a really unique view passing under bridges and streets.”

The esteemed Canterbury Punting Company, honoured with the Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Award 2024, is celebrated for its traditional handcrafted wooden boats and engaging guides who are not only local historians but also possess a natural flair for storytelling, as reported by KentLive.

Their enthralling narratives and adept punting ensure a memorable adventure for everyone embarking on this relaxed voyage, reports Kent Live.

This top-rated company proudly holds an impressive 4.8 out of 5 stars, based on a staggering 1,388 reviews on Tripadvisor. Just this month, a customer raved: “What a fantastic experience and led by a very knowledgeable and entertaining guide/punter – not sure what correct terminology is – by the name of Freddy.

“He kept us thoroughly entertained with his tales of yonder whilst on the history boat ride. It was a lovely experience and so relaxing and informative.

“Can’t wait to try the nature tour next. I highly recommend it to anyone wanting to do something a bit different and to see Canterbury from the River Stour.”

Sharing the enthusiasm, another visitor from May wrote: “Sebastian was a very talented storyteller and informed us of the magical world that is Canterbury.

“The tour was relaxing and enjoyable, and my family thoroughly enjoyed it. I highly recommend this to any family who wants a day out relaxing on the river.”

City need to get over this disappointment quickly because they have got a massive Premier League game against Bournemouth on Tuesday.

As things stand they are in sixth place and out of the Champions League places, so they really need to win it – in effect, it’s another cup final for them.

Whether they finish in the top five or not, however, I can see there being a big turnover of players in Pep’s squad over the summer.

We know Kevin de Bruyne is leaving and the writing appears to be on the wall for Jack Grealish as well – Guardiola preferred to bring a young kid, Claudio Echeverri, off the bench for his debut when he was desperate for a goal against Palace, rather than send on Grealish, a £100m player.

There could be a lot of other changes too, and there has to be really. This City team has been amazing but they have come to the end of their period of dominance and some fresh faces are needed to get them challenging for the Premier League title again.

Even if they spend big and bring a few players in, I am not sure whether they can get back to the levels they reached under Guardiola in the past few seasons, when they were the outstanding team in the country.

But some kind of improvement is clearly needed. Considering the heights they have hit, for them to be in sixth place with two games to go and without a trophy for the first time since 2016-17 has already made this a very poor season by their high standards.

Alan Shearer was speaking to BBC Sport’s Chris Bevan at Wembley.

Crystal Palace win their first major trophy by beating Manchester City 1-0 in the FA Cup final at Wembley stadium.

Crystal Palace’s Eberechi Eze sparked a massive south London party by scoring the only goal to win the FA Cup 1-0 against Manchester City and claim the club’s first major trophy in their history.

Local man Eze volleyed in after 16 minutes, former Manchester United goalkeeper Dean Henderson performed heroics in the Palace goal, and City contrived to waste a sack-load of chances, including a penalty, in an enthralling final on Saturday.

After England forward Eze, whose goals in the last eight and semis fired his team into the final for the third time, scored completely against the run of play, Palace had to survive a City siege to spark wild celebrations.

Omar Marmoush had a first-half penalty saved by Henderson as City lost in the Cup final for a second successive season, summing up a harrowing campaign in which they have been dethroned as the powerhouse of English football and will go without a domestic trophy for the first time since 2016-17.

For Palace’s massed ranks decked in purple and blue, it was a day of unbridled joy as Oliver Glasner’s team rode their luck to make it third time lucky after suffering defeats in their previous two FA Cup final appearances in 1990 and 2016.

Glasner, who took charge of the club 15 months ago, becomes the first Austrian coach to win the FA Cup.

City have been a pale imitation of the side that has dominated the English game for most of the past decade.

But the way they began at Wembley suggested that Pep Guardiola’s side were determined to prove that talk of their demise had been greatly exaggerated.

Having picked an ultra-attacking lineup shorn of defensive midfielders, City hemmed Palace deep inside their own half for the opening 15 minutes with Kevin De Bruyne pulling the strings on what was his last Wembley appearance in City’s colours.

His lofted ball picked out Erling Haaland, whose stretching effort at the far post was brilliantly saved by Henderson, who also shortly afterwards beat out Josko Gvardiol’s header.

Palace finally broke the siege, and in their first foray beyond the centre circle, they ripped through City’s lines.

Jean-Philippe Mateta played in Daniel Munoz, and his cross was met by Eze, who flashed a first-time volley past Stefan Ortega to provoke an eruption of noise from the Palace fans.

Ismaila Sarr nearly made it 2-0, but Ortega saved, and Palace’s hearts were in their mouths when Henderson appeared to have handled the ball outside his area under pressure from Haaland, but a subsequent VAR check spared him a possible red card.

There was no escape for Palace defender Tyrick Mitchell when he tripped Bernardo Silva, and referee Stuart Attwell pointed to the spot. Surprisingly, Haaland did not take it and instead Omar Marmoush stepped forward for his first penalty since joining City in January, but his effort lacked conviction and Henderson dived to his right to save.

Henderson made a flying save to keep out Jeremy Doku’s curling effort as Palace reached half-time ahead despite having only 19 percent of possession.

Munoz thought he had made it 2-0 just past the hour mark, but a lengthy VAR check ruled his effort out for offside.

Seven-time winners City went close numerous times after the break, with Henderson and his defenders performing heroics to preserve Palace’s lead.

A huge groan went up from the Palace fans as 10 minutes of stoppage time, but after more close shaves and nail-biting, the final whistle sounded and the club’s anthem Glad All Over bellowed around the stadium.

CRYSTAL PALACE are taking on Manchester City in a stunning FA Cup final at Wembley Stadium!

The Eagles headed into the match on the back of a mixed season in the league, but have ended the campaign in good form.

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Palace boss Oliver Glasner has had a huge impact on the side since his arrival at Selhurst Park in February 2024.

Glasner said ahead of the FA Cup final: “I’m very pleased. Not just with the improvements, but I think with the environment we have created here at the training ground and also in the club.

“We are very ambitious, everyone is working very hard to progress, and this is the main reason why we are where we are now at the end of the season.

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“We are really settled in mid-table and looking at the teams in front of us more than looking at the teams who are behind us.

“We are also playing the FA Cup final and very pleased with what has happened in the last 15-16 months.”

Have Crystal Palace ever won a trophy?

Crystal Palace won the Second Division twice in their history – in 1979 and in 1994.

They have also been promoted via the playoffs four times – 1989, 1997, 2004 and in 2013.

However, what is considered a top-flight honour has eluded the club so far.

While the club have now reached three FA Cup finals, including taking Manchester United to a replay in 1990.

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United won 1-0 in the replay after the original clash ended in a 3-3 draw.

Before their final in 2025, the last time Palace were in an FA Cup final was in 2016.

Palace also played United that day, but lost 2-1 after extra-time in a match famed for manager Alan Pardew’s dance with the side 1-0 up.

Winning the FA Cup today will send The Eagles into the Europe.

The last and only time they played in Europe was the 1998 UEFA Intertoto Cup, but were knocked out in the third round to Turkish side Samsunspor.