dip

TRAIN fares in the UK are some of the highest in Europe, meaning even a short-distance day trip for Brits can be prohibitively expensive.  

But there is a way to save on high-cost rail travel, just as long as you’re willing to be flexible when it comes to your destination.

As someone who loves exploring the UK, I was delighted to hear about the Trainpal app and its ‘Lucky Train Trip’ promotion, allowing Brits to book train tickets to a mystery location for just £9.99. 

With an empty Tuesday in the calendar, and a desire to see parts of the country I hadn’t before, I thought I’d give it a go to see if it was worth it. 

It’s pretty simple to use.

Simply download the Trainpal app, scroll down to the Lucky Train Trip section before selecting where you want to travel from and on which date, and then the app does the rest.  

CHEAP DATE

Our fave cheap European destinations with flights under £20 & hotels from £24pp

IT’S A WASHOUT

UK indoor waterparks with VIP spas, mega slides and 30C tropical climates

There are some restrictions though when using this promotion.

The first is there are only two mystery destinations available to each customer per day.

So if you don’t like either of the two journeys you receive via the lucky dip, then you either have to wait until the next day to try again, or you have to pay full price to go somewhere you definitely want to visit. 

After drawing Gatwick Airport on my first attempt, I’ll admit that my confidence in the app was pretty low to begin with. 

However, my second spin drew the seaside town of Margate, which had some tickets listed online for as much as £40 return.

It seemed a no-brainer to accept, considering how much I’d save, particularly for such a sought-after destination. 

What’s more, this was during half-term and my train was rammed, but there are seemingly no restrictions on the promotion during holidays or weekends, meaning it’s not just good for weekday excursions. 

Margate itself more than lived up to its reputation as a seaside stalwart, particularly during the recent heatwave.  

I paddled in its refreshing blue sea water, absorbed some culture in the Turner Contemporary art gallery, and of course enjoyed some seaside refreshments. 

The Harbour Arms Micropub was my pick of the more traditional bars in the town.

As its name suggests, it overlooks the beach from the harbour, making it a perfect spot to enjoy a drink in the sun, especially with some pints available for less than £5. 

However, I was similarly impressed with Little Swift and its serving hatch, which offers takeaway slushie cocktails for as little as a tenner. 

Good seaside food was easy to find as well, with Peter’s Fish Factory so popular with the locals that they were already lining up around the block by the time I’d arrived for lunch.  

It’s easy to see why as well, with crispy scampi, perfect chip shop chips and a healthy portion of mushy peas setting me back no more than £13.  

I still had plenty of time to explore the many vintage shops in the town’s charming warren of backstreets, where Britain’s best museum for 2026, according to Time Out, the Crab Museum can also be found.  

After picking up a delicious real fruit ice cream from Follow the Swirl and playing on the games in one of the sea front’s many arcades, it was time to get my return train home.

And this brings me to one of the Trainpal promotion’s two main catches. 

The £9.99 only covers a one-way ticket, meaning travellers do have to fork out for their own return fare.

This set me back another £12, which wasn’t unreasonable, but had I been sent somewhere further afield, it could have been much less affordable. 

After playing around with the app on subsequent days to see how far away I could have ended up, I know that day trips from London to Chester are possible.  

One-way fares from Chester to London are as much £44, so not exactly cheap, although the £9.99 outbound fare does save almost £30 on the cost of a return trip.

So it does cut costs even without covering the return leg. 

Another issue is that the £9.99 offer is only available for one ticket, meaning anyone looking to take a spontaneous day out with a friend or family member will have to hope that their companion is also offered the same mystery destination via the app, or someone will have to pay full price.  

Nevertheless, I’d say for a one-off solo day out it was worth it.

I saved a bit of money on my train and ended up having a great time somewhere I probably wouldn’t have considered visiting otherwise. 

With a few more blanks in the calendar throughout the summer, I’m keen to try my luck again to see where I might end up. 

South Korean stocks plummeted more than 4 percent Wednesday amid escalating tensions between the United States and Iran and a tech slump fueled by concerns over the valuation of stocks related to artificial intelligence (AI). The local currency was trading lower against the U.S. dollar.

The benchmark Korea Composite Stock Price Index (KOSPI) shed 366.11 points, or 4.52 percent, to close at 7,730.82, almost eclipsing most of the over 8 percent surge from the previous day.

At one point, the index fell as low as 7,541.11.

Due to the sharp fall, the Korea Exchange had activated a sell-side sidecar for the index at 1:16 p.m., halting program trading for five minutes.

Trade volume was moderate at 457.5 million shares worth 39 trillion won (US$25.6 billion), with losers outnumbering winners 547 to 343.

Foreigners continued their sell-off for the 23rd consecutive session, dumping a net 2.77 trillion won, while retail investors and institutions purchased local shares worth 4.86 trillion won. Institutions sold 2.27 trillion won.

Market analysts said the KOSPI lost ground as tensions resurfaced in the Middle East after the U.S. struck Iran in response to the shooting down of an American Apache helicopter in the Strait of Hormuz and then Tehran hit back.

The risk-on appetite was also sapped by an overnight tech slide on Wall Street caused by concerns over the valuation of the AI stocks on news that Crusoe Energy Systems, a data center developer, suspended one of its projects upon the request of an unidentified big tech customer.

The tech-heavy Nasdaq composite closed 0.97 percent lower, and the S&P 500 dropped 0.26 percent, while the Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 0.17 percent.

Major tech shares led the market decline, with Broadcom losing 1.12 percent, Apple sliding 3.64 percent, Micron falling 1.4 percent and Nvidia down 0.2 percent.

Investors’ eyes are now on the upcoming release of the U.S. Consumer Price Index (CPI), which could give further clues on the U.S. Federal Reserve’s monetary policy amid bets on a hawkish pivot and the initial public offering of SpaceX later this week.

“The South Korean stock market was weighed down as risk aversion sentiment strengthened ahead of the U.S. CPI and Oracle’s earnings release, once triggering a sell-side sidecar,” Lee Kyoung-min, an analyst at Daishin Securities, said.

Lee said a hot inflation report could further contract the market sentiment, raising concerns over a possible U.S. rate hike.

In Seoul, market top-cap Samsung Electronics slid 6.06 percent to 302,500 won, while its chipmaking rival SK hynix plunged 7.54 percent to 2.05 million won.

AI investment firm SK Square shed 6.78 percent to 1.18 million won, and Samsung Electro-Mechanics shot down 8.38 percent to 1.8 million won.

Samsung Life Insurance dipped 6.36 percent to 368,000 won, and Samsung C&T plummeted 5.01 percent to 407,500 won.

Auto shares were also weak, with Hyundai Motor down 5.79 percent to 602,000 won, and its sister Kia losing 2.8 percent to 159,700 won. Hyundai Mobis dropped 4.2 percent to 570,000 won.

Internet portal operator Naver, which had recently rallied on news on its partnership with Nvidia, nosedived 11.67 percent to 227,000 won. Home appliances maker LG Electronics shot down 9.68 percent to 224,000 won.

Major shipbuilder HD Hyundai Heavy was among the few gainers, jumping 4.74 percent to 641,000 won.

Defense giant Hanwha Aerospace also climbed 1.48 percent to 1.03 million won.

The Korean won was quoted at 1,524.2 won against the U.S. dollar at 3:30 p.m., down 12.1 won from the previous session.

Bond prices, which move inversely to yields, closed mixed. The yield on three-year Treasurys added 2.5 basis points to 3.881 percent, and the return on the benchmark five-year government bonds dropped 3.2 basis points to 4.070 percent.

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AS RAIN starts pouring in the UK and temperatures dip, you might be craving some warmth and somewhere to take the family that feels like a holiday.

But you don’t need to jet off abroad to escape the British weather.

Across the country, high-tech, indoor aqua parks are offering an oasis away from the rain – with tropical 30C climates, record-breaking wave pools and adrenaline-pumping speed slides.

From waterparks with their own VIP hot tubs and thermal spas for adults, to multi-lane racing chutes for kids, these are the ultimate indoor waterparks that guarantee a fun day out while the British weather does its worst.

Alpamare, Scarborough

Alpamare describes itself as “unlike any waterpark you’ve seen before”, and they might just be right.

This alpine-themed water world has four massive waterslides named after ski runs: the Cresta Run, Olympic Run, Black Run and Snowstorm.

Race down these thrilling water rides through twists, turns and even stops to spin around giant funnel bowls.

There’s also a massive wave pool which erupts with waves every 30 minutes. Or for something more chilled, there’s a huge main indoor pool and even a heated outdoor infinity pool for when the weather picks up.

The relaxation doesn’t stop there – this waterpark has its own spa with a ‘Sauna World’, hammam and health bar.

Inside the Sauna World you’ll find a panoramic Finnish sauna, LED ice showers, a reflexology foot bath and even a unique ‘Hay Bath’.

Here you can lay back on a lounger in a wooden relaxation area packed with fresh hay harvested from the fields of North Yorkshire – a unique form of aromatherapy.

Tickets start at £10 per adult, £7.50 per child and £2.50 per toddler. Book ahead online for the best rates.

Coral Reef Waterworld, Bracknell

One of England’s biggest indoor water worlds, Coral Reef Waterworld is ideal for a family rainy day out with plenty of fun including a giant pirate ship and erupting water volcano.

Indoors, expect tropical temperatures at 30C and a rapid river, bubble pool and children’s splash zone.

The pirate-themed splash area houses a pirate ship called The Coralina, surrounded by water cannons and interactive water features for kids of all ages.

There are also five high-tech waterslides, including The Cannon, which launches riders down a 67 metre-long chute like a cannonball.

Another popular ride is Poseidon’s Peril, where two people are attached to an inflatable raft as it rotates and swirls through colour-changing lights.

Grown-ups can head to the Coral Spa to unwind.

It has heated loungers, three saunas and even a Japanese steam room.

Adult tickets cost £20.55 and children’s cost £14.55. Book tickets ahead online.

Splashdown Waterpark, Poole 

Home to some of the UK’s wildest waterslides, Splashdown Waterpark in Poole is a total paradise for adrenaline junkies.

This action-packed waterpark boasts 13 indoor and outdoor flumes that operate whatever the weather.

Daredevils can conquer The Screamer, which plummets you through a near-vertical 40-meter drop in under five seconds, or dive into the pitch-black Black Thunder.

If you want a party with your plunge, the Infinity waterslide plays funky tunes alongside a flashing laser show as you whirl around a giant bowl.

Little ones aren’t left out either, with the interactive water cannons at Buccaneer Splash keeping younger kids safely entertained.

Admission for three hours costs £23 per person, £9 for 1-4-year-olds and £6 for children under 1.

Child tickets include entry for a companion adult.

Make sure to book tickets online in advance.

Calypso Cove, Barnsley

Inside the Barnsley Metrodome, Calypso Cove is the North’s ultimate indoor waterpark.

It’s designed to look like a tropical island paradise, making it a huge hit for family days out when the British weather misbehaves.

There are some high-energy water rides here to enjoy, like Terror Torrent, one of the UK’s fastest indoor water flumes.

This thrilling slide hurls riders through tight twists and turns before dropping them out into the pool.

There’s also The Eruption, a volcano-themed ride that spins you around a large bowl before dropping you out at the bottom.

Families with younger kids can climb onto the decks of the large pirate ship play area, while parents with babies and toddlers can enjoy the shallow waters and gentle water fountains of Barnacle Bay.

For a bite to eat, head to The Hideout poolside cafe. Here you can break up your swimming session by walking straight out of the water to grab burgers, chips, and drinks in your swimwear before heading straight back to the slides.

Adult tickets cost £16, under 10s tickets cost £13 and under 3s tickets cost £4. All tickets must be booked in advance online.

The Wave, Coventry

The Wave in Coventry is a giant indoor waterpark home to the largest wave pool in the UK.

Jump into the huge pool where the wave machine churns more than 20 million litres of water per day, or drift along in the lazy river.

There are six waterslides for thrill-seekers to brave, including The Riptide, a half-pipe slide that blasts riders in a rubber ring down a near-90-degree drop.

There is also The Cyclone, which spins swimmers around a giant open bowl before dropping you through the middle.

For younger children, The Reef is a vibrant splash pad with its own miniature slides and water fountains safely tucked away from the big flumes.

Meanwhile, grown-ups looking for some me-time can head to the Mana Spa.

There you can swim in a quieter spa pool, unwind in the aromatherapy room and relax in the sauna or steam room.

Tickets cost £15 per adult, £13 for children 11 and under and under ones go free.

Sandcastle Waterpark, Blackpool

Sandcastle Waterpark is the UK’s largest indoor waterpark, sitting on the South Promenade opposite popular theme park Pleasure Beach.

This water world packs 18 slides and attractions into a tropical 29C environment, making it the ultimate rainy day saviour.

Take your pick from white-knuckle rides like The Master Blaster, the UK’s longest water rollercoaster, or Montazooma, a head-spinning slide of twists and turns.

There’s also Aztec Falls, a water ride that plunges you into darkness before spinning you around a giant bowl.

The Caribbean Storm Treehouse is a hit with kids, featuring a giant climbing frame topped with a huge coconut that unleashes 600 gallons of water on swimmers below.

Little ones can also challenge each other on the multi-lane Treetops Water Chutes or explore the interactive HMS Thunder Splash pirate ship.

When you need a break from the noise, the adult-only Sea Breeze Spa offers a relaxing escape.

A £7 upgrade secures a three-hour session to unwind across the saunas, steam rooms, foot baths, and aromatherapy lounge.

And if you really want to splash out, the park offers premium Tiki Cabanas for adults.

Priced at £60pp, this VIP package bundles full-day waterpark entry and a free meal with your own private area with a hot tub, flatscreen TV and a fridge stocked with cold drinks.

Tickets start from £25.50 for ages 8+ and £16.50 for kids aged 3-7, with under 3s going free. Make sure to book online in advance, as same-day purchases here can cost you extra.

WITH warm weather on the way, many Brits are looking for the best places to take a dip.

If sea swimming isn’t for you, don’t worry, there are a variety of heated lidos open all summer long.

Whether you’re swimming laps or soaking up the sun with friends, nothing says a British summer like an outdoor pool.

With on-site cafes and splash parks for younger children, there’s plenty on offer at these lidos.

And even if you’re not the strongest swimmer, all these locations offer Swim For All sessions throughout the summer.

These seven lidos even offer heated waters so you don’t have to worry about taking a chilly dip.

SPLASH OUT

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SPLASH OUT

Gorgeous Art Deco lido with ‘lagoon’ pool and slides is reopening this weekend

Charlton Lido and Lifestyle Club

This 50-metre South London pool offers warm water temperatures of 22 to 28 degrees, depending on the sun.

Fitness swimmers and families alike are welcome at this lido, with dedicated lanes open from June to September, plus a state-of-the-art gym, exercise studio, tennis courts, and an on-site cafe.

London Fields Lido

Open year-round, this Hackney pool is also Olympic-sized and is at its busiest during the warm summer months.

Swimmers of all experience levels can enjoy 50-minute slots, while sunbathing sessions last for two hours, and the on-site cafe is open all day.

Oasis Sports Centre

Measuring 27.5 metres, this Camden pool offers a consistent temperature of 25 degrees all summer long, and is described as one of the city’s best-kept secrets.

Swim sessions are available for all levels, lasting 50 minutes at a time until 5pm on weekdays and 4pm on weekends, with other facilities also available, including a gym, sports studios, squash courts, and a sauna.

Pools On The Park

Also located in London, this 33-metre pool also maintains a comfortable temperature of 25 degrees.

It features easy step access and floodlighting so you can swim early in the morning and into the evening during the off-season too.

Abbey Meadows Outdoor Pool

Located in Abingdon, Oxfordshire, Abbey Meadows Outdoor Pool measures 25 metres and there’s even a free splash pad next door.

A kiosk offering light refreshments is also available on-site, from 9am until 6pm.

Riverside Park and Pools

This 23-metre outdoor pool is also heated, making it the ideal spot for a family day out in Wallingford, South Oxfordshire.

There’s even a splash park for your little ones, as well as an on-site cafe and a nearby campsite.

Woodstock Open Air Pool

Measuring 25 metres, Woodstock Open Air Pool, also in Oxfordshire, features four lanes for swimming as well as a diving board.

This pool is open from May 24 until July 20, with changing facilities, hot showers, a cafe, and picnic area all on site.