dubbed

The UK’s best food and drink can be found in a market town that’s been dubbed the ‘loveliest town in England’ – and it’s not where you’d expect but has grown in popularity over the years

Long hailed by poet John Betjeman as “the loveliest town in England,” Ludlow is also globally recognised for its food and drink scene.

With over 500 listed buildings and a skyline dominated by a Norman castle, Ludlow combines ancient charm with modern appeal, cobbled streets lead to delis, bakeries, cosy pubs and renowned restaurants.

Often referred to as the ‘food and drink capital of the Marches’, Ludlow’s hospitality industry thrives due to its diverse local produce. In 2024, a Which? Travel survey of more than 9,000 people asked participants to rate the food and drink in their favourite inland towns and villages.

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Ludlow triumphed as the nation’s top-rated food and drink destination. It was the only inland town to secure a full five stars for food, reports the Express.

As Which? Travel put it: “Instead of a handful of high-end eateries, there’s a culture of local produce as well as numerous pubs and cafes, served by people who care about the food.”

This ethos is reflected on the plate, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients and menus that change with the seasons. TripAdvisor currently ranks Old Downton Lodge as Ludlow’s best restaurant.

Riverside favourite CSONS is another beloved spot for relaxed, quality dining, along with Kin Kitchen and The French Pantry for cafe and bistro-style dining.

Pub lovers are spoilt for choice with establishments including The Queens and The Boot Inn, both receiving rave reviews on TripAdvisor.

Experts from Ludlow Distillery note that the town’s culinary scene thrives thanks to a strong network of food and drink producers, ranging from specialist cheesemakers and bakers to craft brewers and distillers.

They said: “The strength of this offering is best seen (and tasted) by a visit to the Local to Ludlow Market in the Castle Square (where growers and makers based within 30 miles of the town sell a range of high-quality and carefully selected produce), and the award-winning Broad Bean fine food delicatessen on Broad Street.”

The town embraces ‘Slow Food’, a global, grassroots movement with thousands of members worldwide that links gastronomic pleasure with community commitment. Over recent years, the initiative in Ludlow has grown substantially.

Slow Food Ludlow Marches offers year-round events, including visits, talks, demonstrations, meals and Taste Workshops at Ludlow Food Festival in September.

Ludlow Food Festival remains one of the town’s biggest annual events, regularly drawing around 15,000 visitors to Ludlow Castle over three days.

While it has finished for 2025, locals and tourists can look forward to the Winter Festival at Ludlow Castle. Scheduled to take place from 28th to 30th November 2025, the event will showcase local entertainment, mulled wine, and popular favourites from the Ludlow Food Festival.

To make the most of your visit, plan it for the second or fourth Thursday of the month when the Ludlow Local Produce Market is held, featuring food and drink produced within a 30-mile radius.

The stalls emphasise sustainability and seasonality, turning an ordinary shopping trip into a delightful afternoon outing. Beyond Shropshire, Wells was named as the runner-up for inland dining by Which? Travel.

Other places that received accolades include Lavenham in Suffolk, Llangollen in Denbighshire, Stamford in Lincolnshire, and Cartmel in Cumbria. Each offers a unique flavour of a gastronomic getaway.

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THE first glimpse of a popular UK seaside town’s £20million beachfront transformation has been revealed in brand new footage.

Located in the heart of Devon, the new project is set to redefine a stretch of stunning British coastline.

An incredible new fly-through tour has provided residents with a first look at Paignton’s bright future.

The ambitious new plans include the instalment of vital flood protection and upgrades to public areas.

After being appointed by Torbay Council, the construction firm Knights Brown has revealed that it is preparing for full-scale works to commence in early November.

The project is set to unfold in three key phases.

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It aims to protect homes, businesses, and community areas from coastal flooding, while also introducing brand new promenades, seating zones, landscaping and improved lighting.

Phase one will focus on Paignton Green North, with work scheduled for completion before the English Riviera Airshow in May 2026.

The following phase will aim to tackle Paignton Green South.

While a separate single-phase scheme at Preston seafront is due to start at the end of the year.

The £20million project is being funded by the UK government and the Environment Agency as part of broader efforts to strengthen climate resilience.

Construction zones are expected to briefly pause during the 2026 six-week summer holiday period.

Throughout construction residents will also still be able to access both beaches.

Promenades will also stay open but may be narrowed in places.

The green spaces surrounding the work will also remain fully accessible and local businesses will continue to run as usual.

Cllr Chris Lewis, deputy leader and cabinet member for place development and economic growth at Torbay Council, said: “This marks Paignton’s first large-scale transformational project—an initiative that goes far beyond flood defence.

“It will deliver a dramatically enhanced seafront experience for all, with modern design and improved public spaces that add lasting value to the area.

“More than protection, this scheme is about unlocking Paignton’s future as a thriving, vibrant coastal town.”

Mike Crook, divisional director at Knights Brown, added: “We’re proud to be working in partnership with Torbay Council on this game-changing project for Paignton and Preston.

“We have vast experience in coastal and marine projects, having worked on schemes across Wales and the UK, including Mumbles in Wales and Associated British Ports in Southampton.

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“Our team is excited to contribute to Paignton and Preston’s future—not just through construction, but by being an active and positive presence in the community.

“We look forward to working closely with residents, businesses and local organisations to ensure this project benefits everyone.”

MANCHESTER UNITED wonderkid Jim Thwaites has been hailed as a “cheat code” by fans.

The youngster has been added to first-team training by manager Ruben Amorim.

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Thwaites, 17, plays in central midfield and has already seen comparisons to United legends David Beckham and Paul Scholes.

Reports have claimed that he trained with United’s senior players on Friday.

This came following his brilliant performances in the youth sides so far this season.

It is claimed that he is viewed as one of the most technically good players in the academy.

It is added that Amorim and his coaching staff have been impressed in the sessions he has had with the first team.

Thwaites has also been likened to Barcelona and Spain midfielder Pedri with his ball skills.

This is extended to his passing vision as he often breaks defensive lines with his through balls.

The midfielder also possesses plenty of ability in carrying the ball forward up the pitch.

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There is said to be some hope among the coaching staff that he can continue to impress and get an opportunity in the first team this season.

Thwaites has made 48 appearances across the United U18s and U21s, scoring 12 goals and assisting four times.

He was a part of the U18s side that won their age category Premier League in the 2023/2024 season.

Videos of his performances have started to flood social media, leaving plenty of fans optimistic over his potential.

Clips of his matches showed he was comfortable on the ball and able to beat opposition presses multiple times.

One fan posted: “Jim Thwaites is a first-phase cheat code.

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“Press him at any speed, from any angle, he will find a solution and move his team up the pitch.”

A second wrote: “This is more of what we need in our midfield.”

A third commented: “I am always happy watching this boy play, very good player.”

A fourth said: “They not ready for this Michael Carrick regen.”

Another added: “Like Scholes and Beckham wrapped into one.”

Thwaites appeared for United in the pre-season 1-0 defeat to ASEAN All-Stars and left a good impression on Amorim.

The manager suggested that there would be “space” in the squad for players like the teenager.

He said: “I think Jimmy [Thwaites], in the last 15 minutes, as a midfielder, he wants to play.

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“It doesn’t matter how many minutes. These kind of young kids are really important. They will have space in our team.”

Meanwhile, United will be itching to get back on the pitch to try and keep the momentum after beating Sunderland before the international break.

Their first match will be away at Anfield against the reigning Prem champions Liverpool.

This will then be followed by clashes with Brighton and Hove Albion and Nottingham Forest.

Ryanair had said that 206 million of its passengers already use digital boarding passes, meaning that around 40 million journeys could be disrupted once the new rule kicks in

Fears are growing that people who struggle with technology could be blocked from boarding Ryanair flights.

The budget airline confirmed earlier this week that it will move to 100 per cent digital boarding passes from November 12. That means passengers who have bought tickets will not be able to download and print them prior to getting to the airport. This is an option that 20% of Ryanair passengers currently choose, according to the airline.

Ryanair had said that 206 million of its passengers already use digital boarding passes, meaning that around 40 million journeys could be disrupted.

The company’s boss, Michael O’Leary, said that his 86-year-old mother uses the Ryanair app to travel. However, the move has been met with criticism, with a number of campaign organisations accusing the airline of ageism.

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Groups including Age UK and Silver Voice said the move will make flying harder for those who don’t have access to a smartphone or who struggle with technology.

Dennis Reed, director of Silver Voices, told The Telegraph: “It’s a disgraceful move. They are effectively saying they don’t want older people as passengers. There’s a strong argument to say that it’s discriminatory.”

A number of concerned readers have written to the Mirror to express concerns about the change. One told us: “I have elderly in-laws who live in Spain. They won’t be able to download anything onto their phone. They’re not tech savvy, so what will happen when they travel to the UK? I appreciate the need to utilise technology, but that will not work for a lot of passengers.”

Another added, “This seems discriminatory to people, such as the elderly, who, for various reasons, are not able to use smartphones. By Ryanair’s own admission, some 10% of passengers do not use smartphones currently for boarding passes. It may backfire. Ryanair will lose these customers who will turn to alternative providers without such a policy.”

Mr O’Leary, who is 64 years old, was quick to downplay such fears. He said: “I’m old, and I travel from Ryanair on a very, very regular basis, and I use the Ryanair app, it is pretty simple, pretty easy to use.”

For those particularly concerned about the change, Mr O’Leary said that airline would be flexible, promising that “nobody would be cut off at the knees.” He said that it would be “reasonably forgiving” of people showing up with paper boarding passes through Christmas and into January, Belfast Live reported.

“The critical thing: If you’ve checked online before you get there and you lose your phone, we’ll have your name in the system,” he said.

“We will manually board you at the boarding gate so if your phone goes off, you lose your phone, your phone gets stolen, it is not going to make any issue as long as you checked in online before you got the boarding gate, which, by the way, would eliminate all the check-in fees at the airport.”

Mr O’Leary argued that it was patronising for people to suggest that the elderly would not be able to cope with the change.

“Actually, what you find is the old people firstly just get their kids or grandkids to make bookings for them, and then pretty quickly they’re adopting it themselves. And it is slightly patronising, this notion that old people can’t and won’t move to mobile technology or to the apps,” he said, Mail Online reported.

The change has been delayed by a week to November 12, to avoid UK and Irish half-term.

Ryanair chief marketing officer Dara Brady said: “To ensure a seamless transition to 100 per cent digital boarding passes for our customers, we will make the switch from November 12, which is traditionally a slightly quieter time for travel following the busy mid-term break period.

“Ryanair’s move to 100 per cent digital boarding passes will mean a faster, smarter, and greener travel experience for our customers, streamlined through our best-in-class “myRyanair” app, where passengers will also benefit from helpful in-app features, like Order to Seat and live flight information.”

Ryanair’s move to fully digital boarding passes follows other key ticket industries (such as festivals, music, and sport events) which have successfully switched to digital-only ticketing.

Viewers have hailed this series as “one of the best produced by Netflix”, as they can’t get enough of it. People keep rewatching it because they think it’s so good

When it comes to selecting television programmes, the abundance of choice can sometimes feel overwhelming but, regarding Westerns, there’s one series that viewers simply cannot stop praising. Recently, people have been sharing their opinions about the most “underrated” programmes on Netflix via Reddit, and one recommendation might catch you off guard.

The discussion began when a user enquired: “What’s the most underrated show you’ve watched on Netflix that no one talks about? I feel like everyone knows the big hits, but some of the best shows I’ve seen barely get mentioned.

“I recently watched Giri/Haji and was shocked more people haven’t talked about it – great characters, solid story and super bingeable. What’s your underrated Netflix gem? Could be any genre just something you think deserves way more attention.”

Users were swift to offer recommendations, with one championing a series called “Godless”, demonstrating that the Western genre remains remarkably popular. One person promptly responded: “Godless.”

Another contributed: “Loved Godless. Great Western, with superb acting and characters full of depth. ‘I seen my death and this ain’t it.’ Highly recommend!”

A third also responded: “Indeed! Watched this show more than once.” Meanwhile, a fourth also remarked: “Agreed, I’ve been thinking about rewatching it!”

If you’re unfamiliar with it, Godless is a gripping American Western drama miniseries crafted by Scott Frank. Set in 1884, the series tells the tale of a young outlaw on the run from his revengeful mentor, finding refuge in a New Mexico town, predominantly inhabited by women.

The production kicked off in Santa Fe, New Mexico, in September 2016, and made its Netflix debut in November 2017. Despite being a few years old now, the series garnered positive reviews and was hailed as one of the year’s top 10 by The Washington Post and Vanity Fair.

The cast boasts Jack O’Connell as Roy Goode, an injured outlaw fleeing from his former boss and mentor, Frank Griffin, due to his intolerable behaviour. Michelle Dockery also steps into the shoes of Alice Fletcher, a self-reliant and distant widow who runs a small ranch outside La Belle with her mother-in-law and teenage son.

Scoot McNairy also features as Bill McNue, the sheriff of La Belle, a town where nearly all the men have perished in a mining accident. Numerous narratives are woven into this captivating tale.

The show scored an impressive 83% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, earning the title “one of the best miniseries of the 2010s”. Viewers have described it as “simply wonderful”, and argue that it deserves a place alongside all the other major Western classics.

One social media user penned: “As a guy who loves Westerns, I loved this series. I didn’t even think of it as female-centric. It was just an excellent series.”

Another chimed in with: “I’m a guy. Love cowboy movies. LOVED Godless. The strong female characters are a pro. The story, the acting, the show as a whole was wonderful.”

A third added: “Godless is one of the best things ever offered by Netflix. It’s outstanding.”

Meanwhile, a fourth also joined the conversation with: “Jack O’Connell, Michelle Dockery and Scoot McNairy are all awesome playing their characters too.

“Plus a host of lesser characters. If you have any fondness for Westerns as a genre, you should enjoy it. I’ve done a couple rewatches since it first came out.”

If you’ve yet to watch Godless, it’s still available on Netflix. It could be your next binge-watch obsession.

ANYONE looking for a cheap holiday with some great beach time needs to consider heading to Mamaia.

It’s one of the most popular seaside resorts in Romania and is also one of the cheapest – and has a hotel owned by a former footballer.

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Mamaia is a lively beach resort known for its nightclubs and sandy beaches that sits on a thin strip of land between the Black Sea and Lake Siutghiol.

Thanks to its location it has incredible views across the water with highs of 25C in September.

Romania itself is known for being one of the cheapest countries for a city break – you can get a local beer for just 11 lei – £1.88.

The resort is considered the ‘Blackpool‘ of Romania thanks to its affordability and party atmosphere.

In Mamaia, one hotel is even owned by a celebrated Romanian footballer who has been known to sit at the bar and chat with guests.

Gheorghe Hagi, who played for the Romania national team for 17 years, bought the IAKI Conference & Spa Hotel in 1999 and has given the hotel a big makeover since then.

Now, it has 122 spacious rooms and apartments with rates starting at €60 (£52.04).

Thanks to its location on the Mamaia strip, the hotel has either seafront or lake views.

The hotel has a first-class spa with a hot tub, yoga room, room for spin classes and a wet and dry sauna.

There are outdoor and indoor pools too and even access to a private beach.

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The IAKI beach has 220 sun loungers and umbrellas and a volleyball court.

The IAKI has three dining areas too, the Coriolis is open all-year round, has traditional Romanian food including plenty of seafood, and meat like beef tenderloin and lamb chops.

The Ballroom restaurant is where buffet meals are served for guests during the summer period.

IAKI Casino is usually reserved for special occasions, like birthdays, weddings and baptisms.

As for where to get a drink, guests can check out the Piano Bar, Sunrise Bar as well as the bar on the beach.

As the hotel is owned by a former footballer, there is of course a football pitch where both staff and guests can play.

On Tripadvisor, the hotel is rated number one in Mamaia.

One guest wrote: “It has been our 4th visit here and, as usual, the view towards the sea was magnificent, the room was prepared in advance with a baby cot for our daughter, food was excellent.

“I had the chance to see the owner in person again: Gheorghe Hagi, the best Romanian footballer of all time!”

Another added: “Our best memory represents the fact that we met “the king”- Gheorghe Hagi at the front desk and at the hotel’s bar. We took a photo with him and he gave us an autograph.”

It’s easy to get there too, with Wizz Air, you can fly direct from London Luton to Constanta Kogalniceanu from £23.

From there, Mamaia is a 30 minute drive away.

Romania is so affordable that one woman even flew to there for a spa holiday with her mum because it was cheaper than the UK – even with return flights.

And here’s another pretty European city most Brits won’t have heard of gets new cheap flights from the UK.

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The first trailer for the new Wuthering Heights movie adaptation has been released and it’s clear that Emerald Fennell’s take on the classic novel is set to be a very provocative one

Emily Bronte fans have been left divided as the first look at the latest Wuthering Heights movie adaptation has been revealed. The iconic dark romance is set to get the Hollywood treatment with Jacob Elordi and Margot Robbie in the leading roles.

Saltburn director Emerald Fennell’s hotly anticipated movie adaptation set on the lonesome Yorkshire Moors has been given a saucy makeover, with many fearing it is a far cry from the classic book. The opening scene sees a man ejaculates while being executed, with other risqué scenes teased.

In the new trailer, Charli xcx‘s hit Everything Is Romantic acts as a soundtrack as viewers are introduced to Margot and Jacob as Catherine and Heathcliff.

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Those who have already seen the full movie are said to have described Oscar-nominated Fennel’s take on Bronte’s classic novel as “aggressively provocative”, with mixed reviews coming out of advanced screenings.

And the first trailer has certainly sparked some conflicting opinions from social media commentators too. The teaser kicks off with a sweeping shot of a grand estate nestled in the West Yorkshire moors, followed by a stunning close-up of Margot. Suddenly, we’re treated to an intimate shot of two female hands kneading bread.

What follows is a montage of more traditional images interspersed with provocative shots: a bare, glistening back; a shirtless Jacob handling hay in a stable; more bread kneading; fingers tracing through egg yolks; Margot’s Catherine slipping her fingers into Jacob’s mouth; a woman having horse tack placed on her face; and, naturally, a finger probing the mouth of a fish.

“It’s worse than you could ever imagine,” one Twitter (X) user penned in reaction to the trailer going live. “This looks and feels garish & tacky as sh** lmao god bless,” another added as a third fumed: “someone take away emerald fennell’s directing license i’m so serious.”

But some are excited to see the latest adapation of Wuthering Heights when it lands in cinemas on Valentine’s Day next year. “It looks stunning and erotic. (In the best way),” one fan quipped, as another gushed: “Margot Robbie + Jacob Elordi in a gothic Valentine’s release? That’s gonna pack theaters.”

At the first test screening for the film last month, one viewer describe Fennell’s take as “aggressively provocative and tonally abrasive”. Following the screening, it was reported that the movie opens with a public hanging in which the “condemned man ejaculates mid-execution”. The throng of people watching the execution then react orgiastically, and a nun “fondles the corpse’s visible erection”.

Speaking about the upcoming movie earlier this year, Jacob gushed: “The performances from everyone – it’s breathtaking,” he said. “It’s an incredible romance. It’s a true epic. It’s visually beautiful. The script is beautiful. The costumes are incredible.”

Jacob being cast as Heathcliff initially sparked some controversary, due to the character being described as hating dark skin in Bronte’s book. Casting director, Karmel Cochrane, defended the decision to place a white man in the role earlier this year.

“There was one Instagram comment that said the casting director should be shot,” she said. “But just wait till you see it, and then you can decide whether you want to shoot me or not. But you really don’t need to be accurate. It’s just a book. That is not based on real life. It’s all art.”

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It’s one of the Cotswolds’ best-preserved areas and has remained almost unchanged over the decades. It’s a great place to visit as autumn approaches.

Painswick, which has been dubbed “The Queen of the Cotswolds” by many, is a lesser-known gem of the area and makes for a brilliant day out.

This charming town stands as one of the Cotswolds‘ most perfectly preserved locations, having stayed virtually untouched through the years, and is encircled by stunning rural landscapes.

Its winding lanes are home to England’s most ancient structure to accommodate a Post Office and the nation’s most historic bowling green. The area is home to some of the UK’s most stunning towns and villages.

Should you be considering a visit, you ought to explore St Mary’s church, which stands among 99 yew trees creating one of the most striking churchyards in Britain.

This ancient church boasts a spire housing 14 bells and more than 300 hand-stitched kneelers showing biblical tales, reports the Express.

The Rococo Garden represents an essential destination within the settlement.

It was created during the 1740s as an English country gentleman’s garden for entertaining guests.

This garden now stands as Britain’s sole remaining rococo garden making it a truly unique destination.

From 1984 onwards, it has been restored into a beautifully maintained outdoor area and rescued from decay. Setting off from the settlement, numerous walking paths allow you to experience the finest Cotswolds scenery.

Close to Painswick you’ll discover Painswick Beacon and additional small communities like Sheepscombe. The Cotswolds Way National Trail proves a favourite destination for ramblers.

Should you be planning an extended hike, it stretches all the way to Chipping Camden and even reaches Bath city. For a trip to Painswick, the nearest train station is in Stroud.

The journey from London takes just shy of 90 minutes, followed by a quick 15-minute car ride to reach Painswick.

It’s an ideal spot for a weekend getaway, particularly as we head into the autumn season.

A recent Which? survey has thrown a wet blanket over the UK’s seaside towns, with one ‘traditional bucket-and-spade resort’ being relegated to the bottom of the list

A Which? evaluation has thrown doubt over the British summertime ritual of coastal excursions, ranking one “classic bucket-and-spade destination” amongst the nation’s most disappointing seaside locations.

Clacton-on-Sea, situated along the Essex coastline, offers all the essentials for a budget-friendly coastal getaway with its entertainment pier, gaming arcades and golden sands.

However, holidaymakers who took part in the Which? study found themselves feeling “underwhelmed” by what they encountered, pushing Clacton-on-Sea down to the bottom tier of the league table alongside Bognor Regis, Bangor and Southend, reports Cornwall Live.

The assessment noted that whilst the beaches managed a reasonable three-star score, the waterfront itself struggled to make an impact.

The resort also scored particularly badly for serenity, managing just a one-star rating for peace and quiet, as highlighted by the Express, reports Devon Live.

Supporting these conclusions, Tripadvisor feedback from previous guests characterise Clacton-on-Sea as “underwhelming”.

One British visitor expressed their disappointment, having anticipated more attractions and entertainment options, especially for youngsters, and believed that “everything was just a bit underwhelming”.

Despite such reviews, Clacton-on-Sea does have its positive aspects.

Some respondents in the Which? study commended the resort’s delightful waterfront gardens and the “fantastic” yearly airshow. Clacton-on-Sea’s coastline is earning rave reviews on Tripadvisor, boasting an impressive 4.5-star rating out of five.

The beach’s pristine condition has holidaymakers singing its praises, with some even dubbing it the “jewel” of Essex.

One visitor wrote: “Clacton-on-sea has a lovely clean sandy beach with palm trees, and is a great place to visit while on holiday or just a day out; the kids will love it as there is so much to do.”

Another tourist added: “It’s sunny, has a sandy beach, there are patrol on hand in [an] emergency. People are coming [from] all over the place. Lots of attractions and places to eat… fish and chips and ice cream. The jewel of Essex.”

Bridport, located on the Jurassic Coast, boasts a number of attractions, including a beach-side bar and beautiful coastal walks to a Michelin-listed restaurant and thatched brewery

As the cost of living continues to rise, more Brits are choosing staycations over foreign holidays. With this in mind, why not swap your usual holiday destinations like Spain, France or Portugal for the delightful town of Bridport on the Jurassic Coast this year?

Bridport, self-styled as ‘Dorset’s eventful town’, is a vibrant and bustling destination with plenty to offer. One of its highlights is The Watch House Cafe, a beach bar that recently made it onto Conde Nast Traveller’s list of the best beach bars in the UK. Google reviews describe it as a ‘fantastic find’ with a ‘lovely setting right on the beach’ and ‘excellent fish tacos’.

With cocktails priced at £9 and a ‘Mermaid’s Kiss’ mocktail for £5, it’s a great spot to enjoy a summer evening with family.

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The town also boasts a variety of shopping opportunities, with two main streets filled with unique boutiques. In terms of entertainment, the Art Deco Electric Palace screens films, and live performances are held at the Bridport Arts Centre, The Lyric. And don’t forget to check out the prestigious Bridport Literary Festival, reports MyLondon.

West Bay and Burton Bradstock offer stunning coastal walks with their pebbly beaches and dramatic sandstone cliffs. After a day of exploration, there are a variety of dining options. Dorshi, a Michelin-listed East Asian diner, and the Red Brick Cafe, known for its vegetarian dishes, are among the local favourites.

For a truly unique dining experience, why not try The Station Kitchen, which offers a quirky setting inside railway carriages?

Tucked away in Bridport is Palmers, the UK’s only thatched brewery and arguably the town’s best-kept secret.

When it’s time to hit the hay, Haddon House hotel is a top choice. Just 300 yards from the harbour and boasting a 4.5-star rating on TripAdvisor, it’s a real gem. Guests have described the hotel as ‘excellent’, ‘faultless’, and ‘beautiful’, and some suites even feature spa baths.

Bridport has been dubbed ‘Notting Hill-on-sea’. However, this comparison isn’t entirely accurate. While both places have revamped their Electric Palace Cinemas, the property prices tell a different story.

Notting Hill, one of London’s most expensive areas, boasts an average house price of £1.6 million, according to Rightmove. In contrast, homes in Bridport average at £371K, making them over a million cheaper than their Notting Hill counterparts.

The journey from London to Bridport by car is fairly straightforward, taking around three and a quarter hours, mostly along the M3.

If you’re opting for public transport, catch a train from Waterloo to Axminster. From there, hop on an X51 Jurassic Coaster bus – a treat for all you transport enthusiasts – which will get you to Bridport in just over an hour. All in all, expect the journey to take just under four hours.

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CRISTIANO RONALDO’S fiancee Georgina Rodriguez took social media by storm once more.

Georgina, 31, has amassed a large audience on social media thanks to her relationship with Ronaldo, 40.

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And the content creator treated her 69.9million Instagram followers with another glam snap.

The Argentinean model posed in a barely-there see-through outfit at the beach.

And Georgina‘s fans were left in awe as they stormed the comments’ section.

One followers posted: “Perfection.”

Another commented: “Wowwww.”

A third wrote: “What a beauty and glow!”

This fan said: “Queen!”

And that one gushed: “You’re glowing.”

Georgina and Ronaldo finally got engaged after a long nine-year relationship.

The couple met in 2016 when she was working at a Gucci store in Spain during the five-time Ballon d’Or winner’s time with Real Madrid.

They have two children together – Alana, seven, and Bella, three – and formed a family with the Manchester United legend’s three kids born to two surrogate mothers.

That includes Cristiano Jr, 15, as well as twins Mateo and Eva Maria, both eight.

Inside the glamorous world of Georgina Rodriguez…

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LINCOLN, Neb. — Nebraska announced plans for an immigration detention center in the remote southwest corner of the state as President Trump’s administration races to expand the infrastructure necessary for increasing deportations.

The facility will be dubbed the “Cornhusker Clink,” a play on Nebraska’s nickname of the Cornhusker State and an old slang term for jail. The alliterative name follows in the vein of the previously announced “Alligator Alcatraz” and “Deportation Depot” detention centers in Florida and the “Speedway Slammer” in Indiana.

Republican Gov. Jim Pillen said Tuesday he and Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem had agreed to use an existing minimum security prison work camp in McCook — a remote city of about 7,000 people in the middle of the wide-open prairies between Denver and Omaha — to house people awaiting deportation and being held for other immigration proceedings. It’s expected to be a Midwest hub for detainees from several states.

“This is about keeping Nebraskans – and Americans across our country – safe,” Pillen said in a statement.

The facility can accommodate 200 people with plans to expand to 300. McCook is about 210 miles west of Lincoln, the state capital.

“If you are in America illegally, you could find yourself in Nebraska’s Cornhusker Clink. Avoid arrest and self deport now using the CBP Home App,” Noem said in a separate statement.

Noem’s agency posted a picture on social media showing ears of corn wearing U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement hats, standing in front of a prison fence.

The governor said later at a news conference in McCook that the center will have the advantage of being located at an existing facility and near a regional airport. He told reporters he didn’t know if the center would house women as well as men or if children could be held there. He said he first learned the federal government was interested in the facility on Friday.

Pillen also announced he would order the Nebraska National Guard to provide administrative and logistical support to Nebraska-based immigration agents. About 20 soldiers will be involved. And he said the Nebraska State Patrol would allow six troopers to help federal immigration agents make arrests.

Adding detention facilities to hold growing number of immigrants arrested

The Trump administration is adding new detention facilities across the country to hold the growing number of immigrants it has arrested and accused of being in the country illegally. ICE centers were holding more than 56,000 immigrants in June, the most since 2019.

The new and planned facilities include the remote detention center in the Florida Everglades known as “Alligator Alcatraz,” which opened last month. It’s designed to hold up to 3,000 detainees in temporary tent structures. When Trump toured it, he suggested it could be a model for future lockups nationwide.

The Florida facility also been the subject of legal challenges by attorneys who allege violations of due process there, including the rights of detainees to meet with their attorneys, limited access to immigration courts and poor living conditions. Critics have been trying to stop further construction and operations until it comes into compliance with federal environmental laws.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis announced last week that his administration is preparing to open a second facility, dubbed “Deportation Depot,” at a state prison in north Florida. It’s expected to have 1,300 immigration beds, though that capacity could be expanded to 2,000, state officials said.

Also last week, officials in the rural Tennessee town of Mason voted to approve agreements to turn a former prison into an immigration detention facility operated by a private company, despite loud objections from residents and activists during a contentious public meeting.

And the Trump administration announced plans earlier this month for a 1,000-bed detention center in Indiana that would be dubbed “Speedway Slammer,” prompting a backlash in the Midwestern state that hosts the Indianapolis 500 auto race.

Corrections director Rob Jeffreys said the 186 inmates currently at the McCook work camp will be transferred to other state facilities over the next 45 to 60 days. The repurposed facility will be run by the state but will be paid for by the federal government. He said it’s already set up and accredited to hold prisoners, so detainees won’t be housed in tents or other temporary quarters.

The Nebraska plan has already raised concerns

In a video posted to social media, state Sen. Megan Hunt, an independent, blasted a lack of transparency about plans for a detention center, citing her unfulfilled request to the governor and executive branch for emails and other records.

She urged people to support local immigrant rights groups.

“The No. 1 thing we need to do is protect our neighbors, protect the people in our communities who are being targeted by these horrible people, these horrible organizations that are making choices to lock up, detain, disappear our neighbors and families and friends,” Hunt said.

Around a half-dozen protesters sat in the hallway outside the governor’s office Tuesday afternoon making signs that said, “No Nazi Nebraska” and “ICE = Gestapo.”

Maghie Miller-Jenkins of Lincoln said she doesn’t think an ICE detention center is a good idea, adding the state should tackle problems like child hunger and homelessness. “This state has numerous things they could focus on that would benefit the constituents,” she said.

Funk writes for the Associated Press. AP reporters Steve Karnowski in St. Paul, Minn., Jack Dura in Fargo, N.D., and Scott McFetridge in Des Moines, Iowa, contributed to this story.

Despite its rich history, buzzing marketplace and cultural heritage, Lichfield remains an under-the-radar destination, only attracting around 125,000 visitors each year

Just a two-hour journey from Liverpool, nestled in the heart of Staffordshire, sits a charming and thriving historic city. Once dubbed the “most English place in the country”, Lichfield epitomises geographical “middle England” and happens to be Britain’s most inland city.

With excellent rail connections to major cities nationwide, this cathedral city welcomes tourists with a blend of historic appeal, cultural heritage, and contemporary living. Whether you’re interested in strolling down ancient cobbled lanes, relaxing with a picnic in Beacon Park, or indulging in retail therapy around Lichfield Market Square, this compact 800 year old city offers countless delights to explore.

Originally established as a humble settlement in the 7th century, Lichfield has evolved into a vibrant city housing nearly 107,000 residents. It comes after news that an abandoned UK Butlin’s site is now seaside town’s ‘hell hole’ hotel.

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Unlike renowned destinations such as Oxford and York, which each welcome over seven million tourists annually, Lichfield remains a captivating yet undiscovered gem, attracting just 125,000 visitors per year, reports the Liverpool Echo.

As the birthplace of Samuel Johnson, the celebrated author and poet who created the first ‘great English dictionary’ in 1755, Lichfield holds significant literary importance. Tourists can explore the life and legacy of this distinguished author by touring his former residence.

Lichfield Cathedral, a cherished landmark that has stood for over a thousand years, symbolises the city’s historical significance. It’s the only cathedral in the UK with three spires and is affectionately known as ‘the Ladies of the Vale’.

Visitors are invited to explore 1300 years of history within the cathedral and chapel walls. The renowned Herkenrode stained glass and the Lichfield Gospels can be admired here, and if you time your visit right, you might even get to attend a service or concert.

Lichfield is a hub of creativity, hosting various arts events throughout the year. The annual Lichfield Festival, an 11-day event, is a particular highlight, showcasing music, dance, theatre, and visual arts, while celebrating talent both locally and internationally.

For those looking for some retail therapy or a memento from their trip, Lichfield Market, held every Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday on the historic Market Square, is a must-visit. Up to 52 stalls offer a wide variety of quality items, including baked goods, homemade crafts, and fresh produce.

For those seeking a peaceful retreat with expansive gardens and endless walking trails, Beacon Park is the destination of choice. Covering more than 70 acres of beautiful gardens and open space, Beacon Park is a haven for nature lovers with its impressive floral displays, woodland walks, and tree-lined paths, making it perfect for family outings.

In September 2024, the beloved Lichfield Proms in Beacon Park celebrated its 25th anniversary. Thousands of locals and visitors from across the country continue to enjoy a free musical and visual spectacle set against the park’s stunning backdrop.

This Alpine gem of Annecy has become increasingly popular with Brits over the last few years, coming to ski in winter, have fun on the lake, and soak up its European elegance and history in the warmer months

It’s been dubbed ‘the Venice of the Alps’ and is home to Europe’s cleanest freshwater lake. And the French town of Annecy definitely lives up to the hype.

This Alpine gem has become increasingly popular with Brits over the last few years, coming to ski in winter, have fun on the lake, and soak up its European elegance and history in the warmer months.

It’s easy to see why it’s such a hit. With its charming medieval old town, amazing food culture (it’s home to eight Michelin-starred restaurants), brilliant sports facilities, and great transport links (Geneva Airport is 40–60 minutes away, Lyon just over an hour), Annecy really does have it all.

Here’s our guide to 24 hours in and around the famous lake.

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Try your hand at water sports

Lake Annecy really is the jewel in the crown of this gorgeous region. Framed by snow-frosted mountains and with sparkling aquamarine waters and accessible beaches, it’s a magnet for visitors and locals alike. Officially the cleanest lake in Europe, it’s large enough to accommodate lots of people without ever seeming crowded, and there are lots of water sports centres dotted around its edges.

We went to Doussard, a quieter corner of the lake, to try our hand at kayaking (safe and fun) and paddleboarding (also fun but harder than it looks). Parasailing and swimming – the water was a balmy 18 degrees when I visited – are other great options, and cyclists are well-catered for here, so hiring a bike and hitting some of the 40km of lakeside trails is a great way to enjoy the seemingly endless views. There are coffee huts providing refreshment stops along the trails – very civilised!

Chill like a local with a picnic in the lakeside park

Annecy is packed with great places to eat, but if you’re on a budget, a park picnic is a fab way to live like a local and soak up some rays. Residents flock to Les Marquisats, the beach closest to the old town, after work, so grab a bottle of rosé and join the party.

Saint Jorioz is another well-equipped option. With lots of shaded areas, a diving board, volleyball and pétanque courts, it’s perfect for families. It gets busy here in high summer, so head there early to avoid the crowds. There are plenty of beaches to choose from, so you won’t feel shortchanged.

Say Je T’Aime at the Pont des Amours

So it’s not an altogether original idea, but it is a cute one – and who can resist a romantic iron bridge, especially when it comes with killer views? The Pont des Amours has become a spot where lovers add their lock and these days, snap some Insta-perfect shots.

It’s a great spot for lake-gazing too. Legend has it that if you’re single, you’ll fall in love with the first person you see as you cross. You’ve been warned…

Embrace your inner foodie with artisan eats and Michelin-starred dining

The food is amazing here – with a strong emphasis on Alpine cuisine and cheese. But alongside traditional favourites like reblochon cheese (the best I’ve ever tasted), gratin, raclette, and croziflette, there are plenty of contemporary menus to choose from, and a new gourmet hall opens later this year.

If you’re feeling spenny, check out some of the town’s Michelin-starred establishments. For classic Annecy fare, Le Freti offers huge main dishes for less than 20 Euros, while La Cuillère à Omble is unbeatable for fresh seafood, veggie delights, and stunning lakeside vistas.

I tried local aperitif Génépi too. Made from a sage-like herb and 40% proof, it’s not for the faint-hearted but tasted fresh and sweet.

Sample the ice cream

This town loves its ice cream – and at last count, there were at least ten parlours to choose from. Most of the best places are in the old town; head to Rue Sainte-Claire, where Le Palais des Glaces, Chez Poustache, Glacier Perrière, or Glacier des Alpes all come highly recommended.

Or you can take your pick or buy from one of the many street vendors – lots of these have been plying their trade for generations. Top tip – keep an eye out for ice cream that looks too bright in colour; it’s probably had lots of artificial dyes added. Opt for paler versions to enjoy higher quality, artisan scoops.

Take to the boats

There are boats galore here, so it’s worth trying out at least one during your stay. Channel your inner James Bond or dial up the romance with a luxurious wooden gondola, charter a sailing boat, or just hire a pedalo for an hour.

To see the lake up close and find out more about the people who live and work on its shores, a guided boat ride is a must. Crossing the aquamarine water on a sunny day is an experience I’ll never forget – views to die for and lots of opportunities for bagging great souvenir photos.

The Compagnie des Bateaux d’Annecy offers an hour round trip for under 20 Euros – or upgrade to a restaurant experience for Euros 69.

Discover medieval and modern

Take a guided tour of Vieille Ville – the old town – and find out more about how the town was formed, its resistance role in World War II, and how modern residents live today.

If you’re on foot, head up one of the pretty, steep cobbled streets for a breathtaking 360° view of the town and lake and enjoy spotting the many carved trout figures added to churches and older buildings – a symbol of civic pride.

Convertible bus tours offer a more laid-back way to see the sights in style.

Book it

OVO Network offers seven nights at Chalet Bleu Infini in La Clusaz, in the Annecy Mountains region.

A tiny European island which boats transparent waters, balmy weather and swaying palm trees is giving the Maldives a run for it’s money thanks to it’s idyllic setting

Choosing your holiday getaway can take a lot of time and planning and if you’re after a white sandy beach and crystal clear waters – you’ll more than likely have to jump on a long-haul flight. However people have been raving about a tiny Balearic island, and are comparing it to being the ‘Maldives of the Meditarranean’.

Formentera promises the same sunny weather, palm trees and crystal blue transparent waters, just like the Maldives, without the massive price tag. Situated right next to Ibiza, the two islands may be geographically aligned, but they couldn’t be more opposite.

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Formentera is peaceful escape and the island is just 12 miles long and a mile-and-a-half wide at its narrowest point and there’s little to do apart from eat, drink and enjoy the soft sand beaches.

Lonely Planet describes the European island, which was also loved by Kate Moss in the 90s, as a ‘beautifully pure, get-away-from-it-all-escape’. The travel guide adds: “Formentera’s pace of life is blissfully languid, designed for lazy days spent lounging on some of Europe’s (dare we say the world’s) most exquisite beaches.”

Playa de Ses Illetes is Formentera’s best known beach and it’s even won Travellers’ Choice Best of the Best award and the coastal spot is located within the Ses Salines National Park and has white sand with bright turquoise water. Platja de Migjorn is also considered one of the island’s prettiest beaches. The longest beach on the island it stretches across 5km.

For those looking to plan a trip to the beautiful island, travellers will need to fly to Ibiza to get to Formentera with direct flights available on British Airways, easyJet, Ryanair and Jet2. They can then catch a ferry from Ibiza. Ferries tend to run frequently and take around 30 minutes.

It also promises 11-hours of sunshine a day and in July and August, the temperature averages 26 degrees on the island and the average temperature is usually above 20 degrees in May, June, September and October as well.

However if you don’t fancy hopping on a plane, the UK boasts stunning landscapes that are the envy of the world, offering a plethora of beautiful spots to discover if you’re planning a staycation this summer. One of the most ‘underrated’ regions offers the top must-do activity for holidaymakers this summer, located on a picturesque island just off Scotland’s coast.

A breathtaking drive along the Isle of Arran’s coast in Scotland has emerged as the top choice, according to a survey of 2,000 adults about their staycation dreams. Often dubbed ‘Scotland in miniature’, the Isle of Arran boasts a range of spectacular landscapes, with the 109km Arran Coastal Way providing views of the coastline, charming villages, and mountain peaks.

Journeying around the stunning Isle of Arran presents ample opportunities to discover remnants of Scotland’s Gaelic and Norse heritage. It features numerous coastal towns, such as Lochranza and Kildonan, where you can enjoy a walk on beautiful beaches and explore ancient castle ruins. Scotland is renowned for its rich culture and history, which you’ll experience at every turn when exploring Arran.

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This gorgeous Italian city has been referred to as Venice’s little sister, and it’s the perfect getaway destination with stunning historical buildings, delicious Italian cuisine and more

This breathtaking Italian city, often dubbed as Venice’s little sister, is a treasure trove of historical architecture and an ideal spot for a long weekend getaway. Italy is renowned for its captivating city break destinations, but some can be overrun with tourists. Padua, nestled in the north of the country, offers a fantastic escape without the throngs of visitors.

The city is a haven of Renaissance art, medieval marketplaces, and tranquil gardens, yet it has managed to stay relatively untouched by mass tourism. It’s a highly underrated gem, brimming with arcaded streets and bustling piazza cafe-bars.

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Art enthusiasts can marvel at the Scrovengi Chapel, adorned with Biblical scenes painted by Renaissance artist Giotto in 1306. The artwork is so invaluable that visitors are only permitted a 15-minute viewing.

Padua also houses Musme, the Museum of the History of Medicine, showcasing interactive displays and artefacts that highlight the city’s contribution to modern science, reports the Express.

From there, guests can stroll over to Palazzo del Bo to witness the world’s first anatomical theatre, constructed in 1595, housed within the University of Padua’s historic headquarters.

Take a leisurely walk through the Arena Gardens adjacent to the canal, where you’ll find the remnants of a Roman amphitheatre nestled among lawns and coffee kiosks.

The university also lays claim to the world’s oldest botanical garden, established in 1545. Back then, circular plots of medicinal plants would have been meticulously cared for.

A frequently missed gem in Padua is a visit to the Cathedral Baptistery. Competing with the beauty of the Scrovengi Chapel, the Cathedral Baptistery was adorned in the 1370s by Giusto de’ Menabuoi, a disciple of Giotto.

The patron saint of Padua has been resting in an open tomb for visitors in St Anthony’s Basilica since the 13th century, which also boasts bronze statues and a lavishly decorated ceiling.

Just a stone’s throw away is St George’s Oratory. Once serving as a Napoleonic prison, this Gothic-style Roman Catholic chapel showcases a stunningly detailed portrayal of its namesake.

Padua houses numerous UNESCO-listed frescoes, some of which are free to admire at your leisure. If you wish to observe these frescoes, other sites worth visiting include Church of the Eremitani, Palazzo della Ragione and the Oratory of Saint Michael.

Of course, it’s also a major destination for Italian food-lovers, as the city boasts several delicious local dishes, including bigoli in salsa (spaghetti with anchovy and onion sauce), risotto with rovinassi, and the local chicken dish Gallina Padovana.

If you’re a sun worshipper, now’s the ideal time for a city break to Padua as temperatures can soar to 29C in July. If you fancy a cooler getaway, hold off until October when temperatures hover around a more temperate 19C.

A charming Greek island just a stone’s throw from the insatiably popular Santorini and Mykonos has stunning beaches, a rich history, and delicious seafood – but hardly any tourists

Escape the bustling crowds of tourists on this idyllic Greek island recently voted the best in the entire world.

Last year, a whopping 40 million international visitors flocked to Greece, marking an impressive 12.8 per cent spike compared to 2023. The sheer influx resulted in hotspots such as Santorini and Mykonos becoming so insufferably busy – swathes of visitors have vowed to never return.

However, if you’re desperate for golden sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, mouth-watering food and a ubiquitous history – you have to check out Páros. This tiny island, located in the Aegean Sea, boasts 120km of unspoilt coastline – complete with quaint cliff-top villages, rugged mountains, and a vibrant nightlife.

If you’re not satisfied with soaking up the rays on sugar-like beaches, head over to Panagia Ekatontapiliani, aka the Holy Shrine of the Virgin Mary. This Byzantine church complex is a must-see for history buffs, and is one of the best-preserved Paleo-Christian monuments in Greece. According to legend, the original church was either constructed by Saint Helene herself or Saint Constantine, the first Emperor of Constantinople, after the oblation of his mother.

Staying in the charming villages of Naoussa, Lefkes, and Marpissa, is a great way to explore the island’s whitewashed houses with blue windows and flowered yards. It’s as Instagram-worthy as the domed buildings in Santorini, but comes without coachloads of selfie-stick-waving tourists.

And if you’re feeling extra boujee, explore Páros’ wildlife-rich waters with a private boat trip or yacht charter. The island is also a great place for scuba divers, home to barracuda, groupers, and moray eels, as well as sea turtles and even dolphins and seals. With all of this in mind, it’s no surprise that the island was voted the world’s best in Travel and Leisure’s most recent survey.

“This Aegean isle has made the European islands list every year since we added the category to our ‘World’s Best Awards’ survey,” the publication said. “This year, it takes the top spot for the first time since 2020—and readers named Páros not only their favourite island in Europe, but also the best in the world.

Travellers hailed the island’s fresh seafood, shopping options, natural beauty and ‘warm hospitality’ from locals. “There’s more to explore than I expected,” said one survey respondent. “[There are] surprises around every corner.”

While there is an airport in Páros, it only operates as a domestic hub connecting the island to the mainland. This means Brits will have to first fly to Athens, and then hop on another flight to Páros – which altogether takes around six hours and 15 minutes.

If you’re flexible with dates, you can grab return indirect flights for around £264 in August – if you’re travelling from London. Flying from northern airports such as Manchester or Edinburgh increases the cost to £358 and £336 respectively.

There is a wide range of accommodation types on Páros, from no-frill hotels to luxury resorts. For example, a week’s stay (Monday, August 4-11) at the Surfing Beach Huts will only set you back £585. This is based on two adults sharing two single beds in a wooden cabin.

If you’re looking for something a bit more upmarket, you have to check out Paros Agnanti Resort & Spa. This five-star hotel is situated just 100 metres from the beach, and boasts a stunning spa, beautiful sea views, and excellent leisure facilities. Staying here on the exact same nights, in a Superior room which includes breakfast, will cost £2,358.

*Prices based on Skyscanner and Booking.com listings at the time of writing.

What’s your favourite Greek island? Let us know in the comments section below

The Isle of Tiree is located 22 miles west of Ardnamurchan, the nearest part of the Scottish mainland, and sixty miles west of Oban, where you can get a four-hour ferry to the island

Scotland may be known for its chilly and damp climate, but it’s also home to a stunning island that’s been affectionately named the ‘Hawaii of the North’. Nestled 22 miles west of Ardnamurchan, the closest point on the Scottish mainland, and a sixty-mile journey west from Oban, lies the Isle of Tiree.

The island is bathed in the warm currents of the Gulf Stream, blessing Tiree with some of the highest levels of sunshine and warmest temperatures in the UK. Even in winter, frost is a rare sight, although the island does become rather windy due to its low-lying nature.

However, come spring and summer, the breeze turns into a pleasant gust, helping to keep away midges and other pesky insects.

Tiree boasts a plethora of breathtaking beaches, with Gott Bay being the largest and a favourite amongst windsurfers and sand yachters. At low tide, a thin stretch of sand connects Gott Bay to the nearby Island of Soa.

Crossapol Beach is another hotspot for windsurfers and an ideal location for wildlife enthusiasts. During the summer months, you might even spot the fins of Basking Sharks, reports the Express.

Other picturesque beaches on this idyllic island include Balephetrish Beach, Balevullin Beach, Soroby Bay, among others.

Tiree enchants holidaymakers with its unique Ringing Stone – a boulder that chimes metallically when tapped, linked to the Megalithic Builders and believed to be an Ice Age relic.

According to local legends, the stone was hurled to Tiree by a giant from Mull, and should it ever be removed, the island is doomed to submerge beneath the waves.

Keen to delve into Tiree’s past? The An Iodhlann Archive and Museum is your go-to for gripping exhibitions on the island’s heritage and community.

Visitors have been heaping praise on Tiree over at TripAdvisor, with one posting: “Tiree is a magical place. Pace of life is slower, people are friendly to each other, the beaches are simply stunning and among the best, if not the best in the world. Great destination to recharge and unwind from modern life.”

Another equally impressed traveller reminisced: “Went to island of Tiree back in 2002 and have to say it was an amazing trip as well as an lifetime experience. One of the most beautiful places to visit in the UK highly recommended.”

While a third added: “Such a remote and beautiful island. The vernacular Architecture is gorgeous, the scenery spectacular and even the weather was fine. Lots to do and see. Local pottery, cafes, pubs and historic villages. Well worth a visit. Yellow Hare Cafe at the ferry terminal is a must for the best coffee on the island.”

Research has revealed that there is one country in Europe where tourists outnumber locals three to one, and surprisingly, it’s none of the summer hotspots that Brits tend to frequent

When you think of crowded European tourist destinations, Spain and Greece are probably top of mind. But another European country has scooped the title of the most overcrowded tourist destination in the world.

Despite the fact that protestors reclaimed the beaches in Spain to fight overtourism and housing shortages, the country with the most visitors per local is actually Austria. Research conducted by the team at MoneyTransfers.com reveals that the country in central Europe is the most crowded.

The study found that for every local resident in Austria, there are 3.6 tourists. Despite having a population of just 8.9 million, the country welcomes around 32 million visitors each year, as previously reported by the Express. But where exactly are all these tourists heading? Vienna, the culturally rich capital city of Austria, is the country’s top tourist draw.

Known as the ‘City of Dreams’, it’s not hard to understand Vienna’s mass appeal. The capital is home to top-rate attractions including the Schonbrunn Palace, the Vienna Opera House, and the Museum of Natural History. The city is also famous for its delicious namesake cake and baroque architecture.

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But while Vienna may be equipped to welcome hordes of tourists, some of Austria’s smaller locations are struggling with the task. Hallstatt, a stunning village located on the shores of Lake Hallstatt, has seen locals taking to the streets to protest against the surge in tourism.

The small village of Hallstatt sits on southwestern shore of Lake Hallstatt in Austria’s Salzkammergut mountain region. If you’re trying to conjure an idea of the little hamlet, think Austrian postcard: 16th-century Alpine houses on the lake’s edge with snow-capped mountains in the background. But it might be a bit too picturesque.

Hallstatt was recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997 for its well preserved architecture and its ancient traditions that can be traced back to the Iron Age. But the village has become well-known among tourists recently for its famous free-floating skywalk. Tourists often gather at the village’s famous viewpoint to snap selfies.

In 2024, village officials put up a fence to obstruct the view in an effort to deter tourists from taking excessive photos. Locals have even taken to the streets to protest against the traffic jams and congestion caused by the influx of visitors to their small village.

But if you are keen on a trip to Austria and want to avoid the worst of the crowds then Graz might be a better option, according to the research by MoneyTransfers.com. Austria’s second largest city it may not be as popular with tourists, but it’s renowned as the ‘Capital of Culinary Delights’.

As the historic heart of the Stygia region, Graz has two world heritage sites; the old town, reputedly the largest medieval district in Europe, and Eggenberg Palace.

A trip to Graz during the winter months promises to be particularly exciting during the winter months when the Christmas market opens up. Graz’s Advent Market kicks off the festive season and is hosted right in front of the impressive City Hall at Hauptplaz.

For those keen on adding a historic element to their holiday, Graz’s oldest yule market awaits outside the Franciscan church in Old Town. Christmas markets typically run from mid-November until Christmas Eve.

Madrid-Barajas Airport – the second-largest airport in Europe by physical size – handles more than 60million tourists every year, including passengers on Ryanair and Iberia flights

One of the busiest airports in Europe is trying to support hundreds of rough sleepers.

Photographs taken recently at Madrid-Barajas Airport show homeless people attempting to rest in terminals, which make up what has now been branded “a zombieland” airport. Armed police patrol the hub, which caters for more than 60million tourists every year, but one officer even warned a journalist this week to “be careful”.

Madrid-Barajas Airport has now turned into a so-called “hidden city” with the rough sleepers, ranging in age from early 30s to late 60s, seeking shelter there. One woman in her 60s said: “I got robbed and lost all my documentation, so I have been scraping by and flitting around ever since. Basically, the little money I have isn’t enough to live on outside of the airport.”

So the airport is, in many cases, a sanctuary in the northeast of the Spanish capital. They turn in for the night at around 7.30pm, after which time images and videos were taken. They show kind-hearted staff, including police, engaging with the sleepers as the airport tries to ensure the homeless don’t come to any harm.

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Up to 500 homeless are thought to cram into the terminals each night. Some stories are heartbreaking, including that of a 67-year-old man who now has no home. The man told Mail Online: “I was in full-time employment for 50 years. I lost my job and I’ve no pension left. That’s how I ended up in this situation.”

A police officer told a reporter with the publication: “Be careful… It can be dangerous here – this is zombieland.” Yet, despite the “hidden city” emerging, no conflict has been reported.

In contrast, a man was stabbed without an apparent motive in front of stunned passengers at Palma de Mallorca’s Son Sant Joan airport this week. Carlos Heriberto Beltran Perdomo, a 45-year-old man, who is believed to be among dozens sleeping rough at the airport, later appeared in court over the attack.

READ MORE: Brits heading to Europe warned to budget for ‘extra tax’ in summer hotspots

Madrid-Barajas Airport, which caters for several airlines including Ryanair, Iberia and Wizz Air, is in the busy capital, and only around eight miles from the bustling city centre. It is understood homeless extends across the city in Spain, a nation with the highest unemployment rate in Europe.

While tourism is hugely important to the country’s economy, it and its sustainability presents challenges. Authorities on the Balearics, which include Majorca and Menorca, plugged the industry by encouraging selfie-addicted influencers to promote its wonders. Those with a huge social media followings plugged attractions which have failed to enter the tourist limelight – but it seems the plan worked too well.

For example, after a slew of TikTok and Instagram influencers started raving about Caló des Moro, an incredible bay tucked away in the southeast corner of Majorca, an insufferable amount of tourists were flocking their en masse.