English

TUCKED away in the English countryside is a town that sounds like it should belong in France.

Ashby-de-la-Zouch isn’t somewhere you’d find in Normandy or the Provence region – it’s actually in Leicestershire.

But the town actually does have connections to France.

Originally, it was just called Ashby, until the noble French family de la Zouch moved there in the 12th century.

After the Norman Conquest of England, the family took ownership of the area and named it after themselves too.

The de la Zouches built their own manor house home there and generations of the family lived there for hundreds of years.

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Later on, the manor was transformed into a castle by William, Lord Hastings who made it his home.

The site is now in ruins and is run by English Heritage, with tickets from £8.50.

One visitor called it a “lovely hidden gem” and added that it was “well worth a visit.”

In its history, Ashby was known as a fashionable Regency health resort after the discovery of spa waters.

With lots of wealthy visitors, Ashby built the Ivanhoe Baths in 1822 which made it a must-visit destination in the Georgian era.

The grand bathhouse ended up closing in 1884 due to a drop in visitor numbers and was demolished in 1962.

The grounds are still open to the public and are completely free to roam about.

The castle is famous too after featuring in Sir Walter Scott’s 1819 book Ivanhoe.

The romantic novel has a grand tournament scene at the estate.

The town has its own outdoor swimming pool too – in fact it’s the only lido in Leicestershire.

The pool first opened in 1929, more recently underwent a £1.2million redevelopment and after a 20-month closure, it reopened in 2021.

New additions included a sandpit and climbing frame, refreshment spots and upgraded changing rooms.

The 30 metre heated lido is seasonal and usually open between May to September for general swims and lane sessions.

Swims cost £6.10 for adults and £4.05 for juniors.

Like most UK towns Ashby has a high street filled with independent shops, cafés, pubs, and restaurants.

It hosts a street market on Thursdays and Saturdays too.

The town itself is in the National Forest in the Midlands that spans 200 square miles across parts of Derbyshire, Leicestershire, and Staffordshire.

Being surrounded by greenery means it’s an ideal spot for keen walkers and cyclists.

A CHARMING English pier is finally getting a £550,000 upgrade next month.

The Grade ll-listed Victorian structure was forced to close two years ago after it was damaged during a heavy storm.

Worthing Borough Council has said work will start in August on new foundations for the town’s pier.

It comes after the original £930,000 cost estimate was reportedly revised to £550,000.

A storm damaged the pier in October 2024 but it reopened two months later with a temporary steel support in place.

Council bosses have said the pier, which was built in 1862, will continue to remain open while the work is undertaken.

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It is expected to be fully refurbished by the end of 2026.

In a statement, the council said the works “will give the pier new foundations to allow it to stand against the elements without the need for the steel support structure”.

Routine maintenance will take place on the underside of the pier during the structural works, according to the local authority.

Officials said the cost reduction to the project was due to contractors no longer requiring the removal and refitting of the pier’s timber deck.

Worthing Borough Council leader Caroline Baxter said: “Our pier is one of Worthing’s best-loved landmarks and a huge part of our coastal heritage.

“Looking after it isn’t just about maintaining a structure – it’s about protecting a place that means so much to local people and continues to attract visitors from across the country.”

RIGHT on the front and offering gorgeous views, Weymouth’s elegant Hotel Prince Regent is a focal point for tourists who flock to be beside the seaside.

Venture inside, and there are 75 comfy bedrooms with a cosy lounge that’s ideal for whiling away the afternoon. It’s the perfect home away from home.

And best of all, I was chauffeured straight to the front door by coach.

This Georgian-style property is one of several charming hotels bookable through Daish’s Holidays, a UK coach-break specialist for the over-sixties.

It certainly helps to remove all the faff from transportation, food and entertainment.

Stays include pick-up from a number of accessible spots around the UK (or you can drive yourself), plus there’s regular entertainment and half-board accommodation, meaning lunch is the only meal you need to spend on.

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My Weymouth base is handy for the Esplanade, which runs for well over a mile to the harbour.

A stroll along here into the old town and colourful working port area takes ten minutes or so with lots of seats and shelters along the way, or you can grab the bus from the stop just outside.

Bikes are not allowed in the summer, making it a pleasure to stroll.

Be sure to enjoy time in the old town and admire the wonderfully preserved buildings, including The Tudor House Museum on the south of the harbour.

The Nothe Fort stands guard nearby and it’s a gentle climb from the old town – or a steeper climb by steps – but well worth a visit for the views and a peep into the history of the place.

If walking is big on your list then you’re in luck as this area is on the famous Jurassic coast, with fossils dating back 185 million years.

I consider myself to be a bit of an old fossil, so it was apt that I treated myself to a local souvenir, a tiny fossilised local ammonite – a mere 175million years old. I came away feeling I am a spring chicken in comparison!

If you’re feeling a little peckish, the fishing harbour has great pubs and restaurants with lots of outdoor tables.

The boats land their catch on the dockside where you will find a wonderful fresh fish market.

They will even ice pack some for taking home should you wish.

Keep your eyes peeled for the road bridge.

Built in 1930 to connect the north and south side of the harbour, it opens up every two hours to allow taller boats to enter the marina.

In high season there is also a rowboat ferry service you can use instead of taking the bridge.

In the evening there was no need to leave the hotel, as the nightly entertainment in the Crown Ball Room was top-notch with a mix of very good singers, as well as bingo and quizzes.

Before heading home, I couldn’t resist a ride on the old-fashioned Helter Skelter in Weymouth’s amusement park.

I last slid down one when I was under 11, so I was not surprised when the ticket man gave me a look.

Excited, I carried the mat up and whizzed down.

Although it is just as high, the ride seemed to have shrunk over the years.

So, of course, I had to go up one more time, just because I could.

A NEW “world-class” arena is being plotted for an iconic UK seaside resort.

The Government has pledged £20million to explore the possibility of bringing the development to life.

A new indoor arena has been proposed for Blackpool, as part of the area’s continued bid to become the UK’s City of Culture for 2029.

Currently dubbed the Phoenix Pavilion Arena, the venue would become the focal point of the city’s wider regeneration strategy.

With a proposed capacity of 15,000 to 20,000, Carters Building Consultancy said the site would host major concerts, sporting events, festivals, trade shows and live performances.

It would also create a new waterfront hospitality area, with cafes, bars and restaurants facing the promenade.

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Blackpool South MP, Chris Webb, began a petition in November last year supporting the proposal, which has since been signed by thousands of local residents.

As a result, the Culture Secretary, Lisa Nandy, has now pledged £20million to explore the next stage of the development.

Webb said: “This funding gives Blackpool the opportunity to properly test whether the project is commercially viable and put us in the strongest possible position to attract an experienced private-sector partner with the expertise to develop, operate and programme a world-class venue.

“It has the potential to attract visitors throughout the year, support our hotels, restaurants and local businesses, create high-quality jobs and strengthen Blackpool’s position as the UK’s entertainment capital.”

The investment will assess whether the construction of the arena is financially feasible and whether it would be the right investment for the area.

It also places the proposal in a better position to attract private investors.

This comes as part of Blackpool’s £2billion regeneration program set to transform the seaside city.

Completed projects include the Talbot Road tramway extension – which connected the Promenade to Blackpool North railway station – and construction is currently underway on a new £65million, high-tech university campus.

A MUCH-LOVED lido is launching its summer season tomorrow, with the popular swimming site now set to open daily.

The venue boasts multiple water flumes and a diving board, with visitors hailing it as “a fab day out”.

Aldershot Lido in Hampshire is fully reopening for its summer season from tomorrow.

Having welcomed families throughout June, the venue now hopes to attract even more visitors with the summer holidays coming up.

From tomorrow, the lido will open daily between 10am to 6pm, continuing until August 31.

Aldershot Lido welcomes tens of thousands of visitors annually to its outdoor pool, boasting a capacity of up to 3,000 swimmers.

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Opening in May 1930, Aldershot Lido was once reputed to be “the largest and finest open-air bathing pool in the country”, playing host to the London Olympics Games in 1948.

Spanning over nine acres, the site offers three water flumes and a diving board, alongside a toddler paddling pool and sandpit for the little ones.

For those wanting a workout, the facilities include a 75-metre pool with plenty of space for lane swimming, as well as a full-sized basketball court.

A wide range of food and drink vendors are on offer for refreshments, with lawn space surrounding the pool reserved for family picnics.

The lido’s popular Doggy Splash sessions will also return in September, giving local pups the chance to play in the outdoor pool before the end of the season.

Swimmers have raved about Aldershot Lido across the years, with one calling it a “fab day out”, and another saying it is “a lovely place for children”.

Karl Miles, Everyone Active regional contract manager, said: “The move to daily opening marks the start of our busiest and most exciting period of the year.

“Aldershot Lido offers a unique outdoor swimming experience and we are pleased to be providing residents and visitors with even more opportunities to enjoy everything the site has to offer this summer.”

Adults can enjoy the open air pool from just £12.50, with children’s tickets priced at £9.50 and those under three swimming for free.

Aldershot Lido will be open daily between 10am and 6pm from July 1 to August 31.

Kericho, Kenya – When Lona Chepkemoi walked into a technical college classroom in 2023, she found something she had rarely experienced during her years in school: She could understand what the teacher was saying.

After leaving primary school in 2008, Chepkemoi had failed her final exam, and her family could not afford to send her to secondary school. For years, the dream of becoming a fashion designer seemed out of reach.

Then a scholarship from her local member of parliament gave her a second chance.

But what surprised the now 33-year-old mother of five was not returning to education. It was hearing lessons delivered partly in Kalenjin, her mother tongue, she said.

“When I got to college, I felt at home because the language of instruction was my mother tongue [Kalenjin], and was mixed with a bit of Swahili and English, unlike in school when teachers only taught in English and exams were strictly only in English. Language here was accommodating, and it made me feel happy because I understood the concept quite well,” she told Al Jazeera.

For Chepkemoi, the difference went beyond comfort, it was comprehension.

Her experience reflects a wider global reality. According to UNESCO’s Global Education Monitoring (GEM) reports, about 40 percent of learners worldwide are not taught in a language they understand well, rising to about 90 percent in some low- and middle-income countries.

A second chance through familiar language

In Kenya, education policy provides for mother-tongue instruction in the early years of primary school, typically up to grade 3, before English becomes the main language of instruction from grade 4, with Kiswahili also widely used. In practice, however, classrooms often shift between languages depending on region, teacher capacity and student background.

Across much of Africa, the language of schooling still reflects colonial legacy systems, where English, French or Portuguese dominate classrooms even when children grow up speaking entirely different languages at home.

UNESCO’s Global Education Monitoring work shows multilingual classrooms are now the norm in many countries. The organisation has consistently argued that children learn best in a language they understand, describing mother-tongue-based multilingual education as key to improving literacy and learning outcomes.

When English meets the classroom reality

Chepkemoi was not alone in finding confidence through familiar language. Her husband, Philemon Tonui, enrolled at the same institution to study building and construction.

Although Tonui completed secondary school, he was unable to sit his final examinations because his family could not afford the fees, leaving him without a certificate.

For Tonui, the use of Kalenjin alongside English and Kiswahili made a significant difference.

“Nothing could beat that. I felt like if every level of education were instructed in their mother tongue, many people would excel in their education,” he told Al Jazeera.

Ismael Kiplang’at, a 28-year-old mason, also studied at the same institution. He recalls instructors making a deliberate effort to teach in languages students could understand.

“Our college was in a town with many communities in it, and even though the instructors did not understand all languages, at least they repeated their words in almost three languages just to make sure everyone was on board and understood the content. And those who came from other tribes always expressed satisfaction, saying that they really felt involved and not left out,” he said.

Now working as a mason three years after graduating, he credits that approach with helping him succeed.

“If education meant those tired English classes that we were taken through earlier in school, I would not have achieved my passion in masonry and earned a living,” he told Al Jazeera.

Between understanding and opportunity

Yet Kenya’s education system, like many across Africa, continues to face a structural tension: Early learning is most effective in familiar languages, but English remains essential for higher education, formal employment and global mobility.

Kiplang’at says he now practises English daily because he hopes to study further and work abroad.

For Shadrack Tonui, national chairperson of the Kenya Association of Technical Training Institutions, the challenge is not choosing between languages, but balancing them in multilingual classrooms.

“Generally, the mode of training is in English as the language of instruction and learning within the institutions. But of course, with the need to understand the flexibility of learning, there can be emphasis and use of a language that the learner will be able to understand at lower levels,” he told Al Jazeera.

He adds that institutions bring together students from diverse linguistic backgrounds, making it impractical to rely on one local language, while also stressing the need for English proficiency in the labour market.

The challenge is not unique to Kenya. UNESCO’s Global Education Monitoring work shows multilingual classrooms are now the norm in many countries, and education systems often struggle with teacher preparation, learning materials in local languages, and competing expectations from parents and employers over the role of English.

‘Why must we learn in another language?’

As for Chepkemoi, she is less concerned with policy than with practice. Most of her clients speak Kalenjin, while Kiswahili allows her to communicate with a wider customer base.

“Even though we were lucky to have teachers who would bring a point home while in college, we also had classmates from other communities who did not speak Kalenjin, and the teachers would explain it to them in Kiswahili,” she said.

For Kiplang’at, however, the debate ultimately comes down to one question: understanding.

“I ask myself sometimes why someone in Europe, Asia, or America learns in a language they grew up speaking, while we are expected to compete in theirs,” he said.

IF you’re looking for a staycation with all the beauty of the Cotswolds but fancy somewhere different – maybe head to East Sussex this summer.

Rye has all the charm of the region and even better – it’s just 10 minutes away from the seaside.

Country lifestyle experts at Welligogs say that Rye is one of the UK’s most beautiful small towns and even dubbed it the “new Cotswolds”.

While it might be miles away from Oxfordshire and Gloucestershire, Rye actually shares lots of the same qualities as towns found in the Cotswolds.

Some of the most famous spots near the Cotswolds include Castle Combe, Bibury and Bourton-on-the-Water which have honey-coloured stone buildings and pretty streets.

In East Sussex, Rye has a similar look with cobbled streets lined with cottages and plenty of independent shops.

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Tess Annan, manager at Welligogs said: “Part of Rye’s appeal is its storybook atmosphere.

“For those who love culture, you can spend the morning exploring antique shops and independent boutiques, before wandering up to Mermaid Street for some of the most photographed views in the UK.

“The 14th century Ypres Tower (Rye Castle) is also always worth a trip. Then head towards the nearby beaches for sea air and treat yourself to freshly-caught fish and chips.”

While the Cotswolds has plenty of rivers running through the villages, Rye offers a beach escape for those who want the delights of the seaside instead.

Camber Sands is just 10-minutes away in the car to get from the village to the dunes.

Head of Sun Travel (Digital) Caroline McGuire named Rye one of her favourite UK seaside towns.

Caroline said: “The medieval town of Rye in East Sussex isn’t strictly seaside, but you can see the sea from its cobble streets and it has a harbour where boats sail out to the English Channel.

“Plus, if you go back as far as the 15th century, the sea came much closer to the foot of the hill the town is built on.

“It’s the perfect place to spend a day out – taking an hour and six minutes on the train from Kings Cross St Pancras.

“If you fancy a morning on the beach, a bus runs from the town to the stunning Camber Sands beach – a three-mile stretch of golden sand backed by dunes.

“Or you can for a six-mile circular walk from Rye to Winchelsea beach.
Back in the town after lunch, there are plenty of fantastic pubs to choose from, my favourites being the 12th century Mermaid Inn and the George In Rye, as well as the Globe Inn Marsh on the outskirts of the town.

“Equally, you could book a taxi and check out Tillingham vineyard in nearby Peasmarsh, with its Michelin Green Star wine tours and excellent pizzas.

“Make sure to save some time to rummage through the many, many antiques shops, as well as Knoops hot chocolate shop and the wonderfully old fashioned Britcher and Rivers sweet shop.”

A POPULAR swimming spot is set to undergo a major transformation this summer- just three months after being saved from closure.

The historic Art Deco venue will receive a 6-figure makeover.

Brockwell Lido, in south London, is set to undergo a £250,000 renovation following Lambeth Council’s take-over of the pool’s management from July 1.

Previously overseen by Fusion Lifestyle for more than 13 years, the leisure charity entered into administration on April 1 this year.

Now, through its in-house leisure services – Active Lambeth – the council will overhaul the current sports facilities, bringing in new fitness equipment, strength training areas and flooring to the site.

As a result, the gym will be closed from the start of the month, with works set to be completed within two weeks.

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The 89-year-old lido will also receive improvements, including new pool lane ropes, with swimming facilities expected to remain open throughout the upgrade.

Councillor Natalie Kane, the deputy leader and cabinet member for inclusion, democracy and culture, said: “Brockwell Lido is a vital community asset and we’re proud to be bringing it back in-house, as part of the Active Lambeth family.

“This is an iconic building that is cherished by the people who use it. We’re excited to be investing in the Lido so visitors have modern facilities that support health and wellbeing for everyone.”

Lambeth Council’s take-over aims to introduce a “more connected leisure offer for residents”, with new technology and greater benefits for members.

Following the transition, existing memberships will automatically transfer over to Active Lambeth’s site with no action required from members.

Designed in the Art Deco style, the popular south London spot originally opened in 1937 and was even crowned the ‘Best Lido in Britain’ last year.

Right now, the White Island is 30C, whereas parts of the UK could reach 40C this week. Now seems like the perfect time to head to the beach for a little cooling dip

As everyone who’s been to Ibiza likes to tell you, the Balearic island is more than just Pacha, 50 euro glasses of Prosecco, and ecstasy tabs. It’s also very pretty.

Ibiza’s coast is defined by turquoise waters, dramatic pine-forested cliffs and hidden sandy coves. The most visually stunning spots are scattered across the island, with top-rated options including the sunset views at Cala Comte, the lush nature of Cala Saladeta, and the iconic rock formations at Cala d’Hort.

Right now, the White Island is 30C, whereas parts of the UK could reach 40C this week.

In Cornwall, the thermometer is bopping around the mark, making a trip to the coast a tempting prospect. Happily, there is a beach that shares many of the qualities of those on the comparatively chilly Ibiza.

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It sits beneath towering cliffs that shield it from the wind, with stunningly clear waters that prove ideal for swimming and snorkeling.

Porthcurno has pure white sand with gorgeous turquoise waters to match. It has the ability to transport you to paradise.

The sand is made up of seashells pounded to powder by the sea over millions of years, which is partly responsible for the beautiful colour of the water. Porthcurno’s south-facing direction, flanked by high headlands, provides natural shelter from the wind and weather, giving the beach its own near-microclimate. The towering cliffs on either side make it easy to find a sheltered spot even on the most blustery of days.

The renowned open-air Minack Theatre is carved into the cliffs above, meaning you can enjoy a Shakespeare play with a sea view.

The theatre was the vision of one woman who decided to carve a clifftop theatre at the bottom of her garden. It’s well worth the climb up the cliff path, if only for the view back down over the bay. You need to book tickets in advance for performances.

The best time to visit is mid to low tide. At low tide the beach widens dramatically, and you can walk to nearby Pedn Vounder. As the tide retreats from Pedn Vounder, a golden sandbar rises out of the turquoise sea creating a shallow lagoon pool. It’s visible for around two hours either side of low tide, according to Cornish Secrets Anywhere We Roam

In the late nineteenth century, Porthcurno became the British connection point of the world’s very first international telegraph cable, stretching all the way to India. In the inter-war period, the cable office briefly became the busiest telegraph station in the world, capable of transmitting up to two million words a day. The Porthcurno Telegraph Museum is right there and well worth a visit.

Driving is by far the easiest way to get to the beach, with public transport options sadly limited. It takes about 25 minutes from Penzance or 45 minutes from St Ives. The car park fills up quickly on peak days, so arrive early or late.

Dogs are banned from the beach between 15 May and 30 September, between 10am–6pm. RNLI lifeguards patrol from mid-May to the last weekend of September.

One visitor wrote on Tripadvisor the beach was “absolutely breathtaking. The most amazing beach beautiful white sand and turquoise sea. Breathtaking views and definitely one of the best beaches you will ever find.”

Another said: “Spent the day here, it’s just like being abroad, clear blue skies water, perfect sandy beach and so peaceful. No arcades, no boats, no noise, just gorgeous.”

WITH the warm weather staying, you don’t need to fly away to experience a destination that feels like abroad.

El Murrino Beachside Kitchen sits on East Cliff Beach, between Bournemouth and Boscombe Piers in Dorset.

One recent visitor claimed the bar has “Mediterranean beach vibes”.

Another added: “The food was tasty and the atmosphere was like being abroad in Spain.”

A third agreed: “The sun was shining and the music made it feel like we were in Ibiza for the afternoon.”

Others even compared it to Miami, saying it feels like being on holiday abroad.

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It doesn’t matter what time of day you visit as the kitchen serves breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Breakfast options include American pancakes for £8 and then when it comes to lunch or dinner you can grab a burger, salad, fish and chips or pizza for £14.

Even your four-legged friend won’t be left out with doggy ice cream available for £3.50 a tub.

And of course there are plenty of tipples on offer including cocktails for £9 or a pint for £6.50.

If you want to elevate your experience, there is the option to book a VIP Cabana for £75.

The cabana can be used by up to 10 people and includes two pizzas and four drinks or a bottle of wine or prosecco with your booking.

Each booking lasts two and a half hours.

If you don’t fancy booking a cabana there are plenty of picnic-style tables as well, surrounded by sand.

And during the summer months, you can also catch a live DJ session at the beach bar.

The beach bar is open each day until 11pm and makes for the perfect pitstop when exploring Bournemouth’s beaches.

A CLOSED English pier is set to be knocked down for good – with plans to build an entirely new one instead.

Victoria Pier in Hull has been closed for four years after being deemed ‘structurally unsafe’.

The historical structure, that stands over Humber Estuary, is instead set to be replaced with a new £1million pier.

The pier first opened in 1810, and later was known as Corporation Pier when it was used as a ferry terminal linking Hull and Lincolnshire.

It was renamed ‘Victoria Pier’ after Queen Victoria visited in 1854, but closed in June 2022 after deterioration and rotting, making it unsafe for people to stand on.

Now the plans are to knock it down and build a new one.

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Earlier this year, locals were invited to choose a new look for Victoria Pier from three designs.

These range from a T-shaped pier, a rectangle or a square.

The date of the pier’s removal hasn’t been set but the council has said that it will start building its replacement straight after.

There is £1million set aside by the council to spend on the redevelopment of the pier.

The makeover is part of the plan to upgrade lots of Hull’s bridges, statues, monuments and fountains over the next five-years.

The city of Hull was named one of ‘best places in the world to travel to in 2026’ by National Geographic.

This is mostly thanks to its ongoing project to conserve its maritime history – with lots of attractions undergoing revamps.

Since 2020, the Maritime Museum has been undergoing a makeover worth £11million, but it will finally reopen to the public in August.

This has been part of a wider £27.5million project to promote Hull’s maritime history which has gone into restoring the museum and ships.

A HISTORIC UK pier that links to a tiny island is set to become a new tourist attraction following a 30-year closure.

Birnbeck Pier in Weston-super-Mare has been closed to the public since 1994 due to safety concerns.

And now the Grade-II listed Victorian pier has been reconnected to the mainland for the first time in years, as part of a £20million project to reopen the pier.

It is the UK’s only pier that connects to an island – Birnbeck Island.

The pier regeneration is also part of a wider £44million project that includes the renovation of the 1888 boathouse, clock tower and landside pavilion as well.

Other derelict buildings by the pier include the Grade II Listed Toll House and its extension, which are known locally as the ‘shell shop’.

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Both will be restored and reopened as well as an information point with exhibitions.

The pier is expected to reopen in summer 2027.

And when it does, there will be a new lifeboat station and visitor centre.

Historically, the pier used to be a transport hub as well as a tourist destination before being used as a weapons testing site during World War II.

As for the island, there used to be a theme park there with a small railway and water chute.

Many locals have taken to social media to share their excitement for the pier reopening, saying it’s “excellent news“.

DRAGGING your kids away from their screens can be a never-ending battle – but I think I’ve found the solution.

Tucked away in Brean, a short walk from the sea, Unity Beach holiday park in Somerset is a hive of activity.

With everything from swimming and football to archery and axe- throwing, the caravan site will make iPads seem dull to young eyes.

I was visiting with my lads Wilf, nine, and Jasper, six, plus their dad Simon — and for the first time ever, it was a doddle finding varied entertainment that suited everybody.

While Jasper and I were sticking coins in the 2p slot machines at the Family Fun Arcade, Wilf and Simon were getting stuck into an energy-burning axe-throwing class.

Wilf had so much fun that he was still proclaiming it as his holiday highlight by the end of the trip.

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The staff were excellent, too, giving him lots of tips and hyping him up as he launched the axe at the targets ahead.

The fun doesn’t stop there, though. For young footie fans inspired by the World Cup, there’s a superb football skills class with first-rate coaches.

There are also entertainer-led activities at 11am every morning at Unity Beach’s family pub, Wonky Donkey.

Jasper particularly enjoyed the Wizard’s Workshop, where he created a magic wand and cast lots of silly spells.

The swimming pool is not to be missed, either. It’s large and all one depth, which meant my youngest could swim in safety as his feet always touched the bottom.

Next to the pool, there’s a fun splash park complete with little slides, flumes and equipment, but my kids were too obsessed by the mini inflatable jet skis.

Bookable for little ones aged three to ten, these mini motors look just like the real deal, only smaller, and kids love racing each other up and down the water.

And if that’s not enough water fun for you, come the school summer holidays, families will also have access to a brand new lido and flumes.

Swimming and the site’s soft play area — which my kids were too old for but looked fun — are included in the price of a stay if you book directly with Unity Beach.

Other activities can either be pre-booked or paid for on the day.

If you prefer the beach to a pool, you won’t have to wander far to reach the shores of Brean.

It doesn’t quite have the same clear seas as Devon or Cornwall as it is situated on the Severn Estuary, but the vast golden sands are perfect for playing cricket, tennis, football or frisbee.

A word of caution, though — it is very important to read the beach’s warning signs because as the tide goes out, the sand can get rather muddy and is not safe to walk on.

When we weren’t getting stuck into mini jet ski action or playing games at the beach, our three- bedroom platinum caravan was the perfect place to unwind.

I must admit, I was expecting something a little like the scruffy caravans of my Nineties childhood, but this was smartly decorated and with a very modern feel to it.

It felt like a home away from home and the boys really loved the simplicity of evenings spent indoors gobbling up homemade pasta (the caravan has a well-equipped kitchen) followed by a night of board games.

If you don’t fancy cooking though, there are so many restaurants onsite that you could have a different dinner every night of the week.

Scoop & Swirl was a big hit for ice creams and other sweet treats, plus there are takeaway options for fish and chips, pizza and fried chicken.

Our foodie highlight was breakfast at the Wonky Donkey, where the grown-ups tucked into a huge full English while the kids wolfed down decadent waffles drizzled with maple syrup.

There’s also RJs — a restaurant that dishes up burgers, pizzas and chilli con carne with a side serving of entertainment.

From kids’ discos to energetic magic shows, there’s something on here every night of the week, so you’ll never get bored.

And to top it all off, we didn’t have one single request for the iPad.

That’s the biggest result of all, if you ask me.

UNLIKE other English lidos, this is one you would completely miss if it you didn’t know it was there.

Burford Bridge Lido is tucked away in the grounds of the Sunday Box Hill Burford Bridge Hotel just outside of Dorking.

The peaceful spot is so idyllic that some visitors have said being there makes them feel like they’re “on holiday”.

Stretching 20 metres long, it is heated between 28C-32C.

Between May and September, the pool is open seven days a week to the public who can book morning, afternoon or evening sessions.

Surrounding the lido are plenty of sun loungers, parasols and towel hire which swimmers can take advantage of.

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You can get food and drink there too which is served up from the hotel restaurant.

On offer there are pizzas, salads and burgers, there’s also a children’s menu as well as soft and alcoholic drinks.

As the lido is found on the site of the Sunday Box Hill Burford Bridge Hotel, guests get access to the lido included in their stay.

And over the years, it has been one of the prime selling-points of the hotel.

One visitor wrote on Tripadvisor: “The gardens are a delight, particularly the heated outdoor swimming pool. That was the icing on the cake!”

Another said: “I love outdoor swimming so the amazing 27’ temperature beautiful pool below Box Hill with fab facilities and lifeguards was a treat!”

A third commented: “An unexpected gem of a hotel in an idyllic location (despite the roundabout location!) with a glorious outdoor lido, perfect for poolside lounging and exploring green Box Hill on a hot bank holiday weekend.”

Sun Travel found rooms that start from £64 per night (or £32 each).

Day pass tickets for those not staying at the hotel vary in price depending on the time.

Early bird swims (between 7-11am) start from £12.50 for adults and £7.50 for children.

Mid-day swims (between 11am-3pm) and afternoon swims (3-7pm) start from £20 for adults and £10 for children.

A full day pass starts from £35 for adults and £17.50 for children with a family pass starting from £85.

For those driving, the lido has free parking for up to four hours for those with a day pass.

The outdoor pool is seasonal and will be open this summer until September 27.

THE magician counts down before throwing a deck of cards into the air and hurling a knife at me. 

Bullseye. The blade is stuck into one card on a target hanging from my neck. Ten of clubs. The card I’d picked. 

I look down from the stage at my three slack-jawed kids who’ve just had a memory that’ll last a lifetime. 

This entertainment at Parkdean’s Vauxhall Holiday Park in Great Yarmouth is a cheerful blast from the past for me, but it’s spellbinding for my daughter Frankie-Beau, 13, and her nine-year-old twin brothers Reggie and Teddie. 

As well as that knife-throwing magician, the feelgood fun on site includes X Factor stars Reggie ’n’ Bollie, a Taylor Swift tribute act, karaoke, bingo and stand-up comedy. 

And thanks to a £5million refurbishment, the choice of awesome activities reads like a list of kids’ birthday party options: a high and low ropes course, Bear Grylls escape rooms, an inflatable bounce park, a swimming-pool obstacle course, pottery painting, off-road rangers and an adventure playground. 

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With an array of places to eat, we don’t even switch on the hob in our comfortable, contemporary caravan. 

And the Hat-Tricks sports bar really hits the target, offering interactive darts, shuffleboard and a fantastic fairground crazy golf course. 

Not to mention a next level arcade that reminds my wife, Kayleigh, and I of the excitement we used to have as kids winning tickets for prizes. 

We’ve taken our children to Dubai, Turkey, the Netherlands and Disneyland, to name a few — but they feel they’ve hit the jackpot on this quintessential Great British caravan-park holiday here in Norfolk. 

No frills but so many thrills. 

Just five minutes down the road is the Golden Mile — a kids’ equivalent of the Las Vegas strip and the beating, buzzing, beachside heart of Great Yarmouth.

The must-visit attractions — a 50m Ferris wheel, the Sea Life centre and a circus — complement the retro coastal charm. Then, of course, there’s the Pleasure Beach amusement park, which has all the fun of the fair and then some.  

There are hordes of cafes, bars and restaurants to pick from for food. We end up finding a little gem called The Box Tree, a small bistro in the Ocean Hotel overlooking the promenade, which serves fresh food of the highest quality and is great value for money.  

They even serve our lunch on paper featuring old newspaper print, in a fun nod to the traditional way of eating fish and chips.  

From there, we hop on the gloriously old-school Choo Choo Loco road train for a short £2 ride down the coast to The Little Venetian Waterways.  

With moreish modern treats such as croffles, Venetian sodas and Biscoff ice-cream shakes, the island cafe is firmly in the 21st century. But the enchanting boating lake is a vintage voyage into the good old days. Frankie-Beau and I hire a rowing boat, while Kayleigh, Reggie and Teddie hop into a pedalo. This is fabulous family time like it used to be — no screens, no scrolling, no squabbling. 

Because we’re reminding them — and us — of the joy you can find in the little pleasures; the things we’ve seen and done but are all new and exciting to them. 

When we stroll down the dated high street of knick-knacks, our children see a lively hub of treats and toys. 

While we wonder how the old ‘upside-down house’ is still pulling in the holidaymakers, our children are gobsmacked to see AN UPSIDE-DOWN HOUSE! 

And the Golden Mile of amusements, bouncy castles and funfairs might just be the only time they’ve walked a mile without whingeing. 

Because every few steps we’re re-energised by another coastal classic: that unforgettable whiff of hot doughnuts; devouring candy floss on the pier; enjoying a horse-and-cart ride along the promenade. 

In the next decade of their lives, my kids — hopefully — will see more of the world. But I know they’ll never forget that little weekend break when their dad had a knife thrown at him in Great Yarmouth. 

Because it was, simply, magic. 

The U.K. Ministry of Defense is investigating reports that a Russian Navy warship fired warning shots near a British-registered yacht in the English Channel, according to a statement provided to TWZ today. The reported encounter is the latest in a series of increasingly tense interactions between the United Kingdom and Russia.

The incident reportedly occurred around 20 nautical miles south of the Isle of Wight, off the south coast of England, and outside British territorial waters. According to the Ministry of Defense, the initial report came from the crew of the U.K.-registered yacht, which alleged that a Russian warship fired warning shots at a distance of approximately 500 yards.

According to the Press Association, the incident occurred at around 11:40 a.m. local time, in waters between the Isle of Wight and Normandy.

A Ministry of Defence spokesperson confirmed to us that they are investigating reports of the incident, but stressed that the investigation remains in its early stages.

“No injuries or damage have been reported by the yacht, which is continuing its journey,” the spokesperson added.

The Royal Navy was already shadowing the Russian vessel when the alleged incident occurred, the ministry confirmed.

“HMS Mersey was monitoring the Russian vessel at the time. We cannot provide further comment while investigations are ongoing. A seaboat from HMS Tyne has visited the yacht to gather details and check that they are safe.”

Both HMS Mersey and HMS Tyne are River class offshore patrol vessels, frequently used to shadow Russian and other warships passing through the Channel, which is widely considered the busiest shipping area in the world. 

According to unconfirmed reports, the Russian warship said to be involved is the Admiral Grigorovich, the lead ship of its class, which is also known to NATO as the Krivak V class. The frigate is seen at the top of this story, during an encounter with Royal Navy vessels earlier this year, again in the English Channel.

[Unconfirmed] Russian frigate Grigorovich has fired warning shots at a British yacht in the channel.

British and French ships are mobilising in response.

Incident comes after the Royal Navy boarded Shadow Fleet tanker SMYRTOS (IMO: 9389100) which has been sanctioned by HM…

— Martin Kelly (@_MartinKelly_) June 16, 2026

The Ministry of Defence also sought to distance the incident from another recent maritime security operation in the Channel, in which British forces boarded the Smyrtos, a sanctioned shadow-fleet oil tanker, which was sailing under a false Cameroonian flag.

The boarding of the Smyrtos by Royal Marine Commandos and specially trained law enforcement officers from the National Crime Agency last Sunday was the first U.K.-led operation of its kind. The six-hour military operation also involved Chinook, Merlin, and Wildcat helicopters, a Royal Air Force P-8 Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft, as well as the frigate HMS Sutherland and the mine countermeasures vessel HMS Ledbury.

It remains unclear exactly which Russian Navy vessel was involved in the incident today, what prompted the alleged warning shots, or whether any communication took place between the warship and the yacht before the incident.

We will update this post as we find out more about today’s incident.

UPDATE: 2:45 PM EDT –

There is growing speculation that the Russian warship involved in the incident may have suffered some kind of mechanical failure or difficulty at sea.

The U.K. Shadow Defense Secretary James Cartlidge said the incident was “very concerning” and the United Kingdom should “be in no doubt that Russia poses a direct threat.”

The leader of the Liberal Democrat party, Ed MacCleary, said: “These reports are extremely concerning. Russia is quite literally on our doorstep. Aggression and intimidation from Putin in the English Channel cannot be tolerated.”

These reports are extremely concerning – Russia is quite literally on our doorstep.

Aggression and intimidation from Putin in the English Channel cannot be tolerated.

This is a clear reminder that the Government cannot afford any further delays to the Defence Investment Plan. https://t.co/xhnoFQ98tE

— Ed Davey (@EdwardJDavey) June 16, 2026

UPDATE: 2:50 PM EDT –

According to BBC News, the Russian frigate Admiral Grigorovich fired warning shots after the two vessels came into close contact.

The broadcaster further reports that the “small, motorless yacht had drifted towards the warship in foggy conditions after setting off from the United Kingdom.”

The BBC cites the Russian Ministry of Defense as saying that the yacht had been on a “dangerous approach” towards the warship, and its crew fired into its path “with rifles” after making several attempts to contact it over the radio and after launching warning flares.

The Russian Ministry of Defense further claimed that its sailors had acted in “strict accordance with international shipping regulations.”

A U.K. government source told the BBC that a couple in their 60s were onboard the yacht at the time. They said they did not hear when the Russian frigate sounded its horn.

There have also been unconfirmed reports identifying the yacht involved:

Russians are saying the yacht was ‘Bright Future’ – a British registered 40′ sailing yaht in transit from the Solent to Cherbourg. pic.twitter.com/m3lKpgeHkJ

— JamesFennell MBE (@FennellJW) June 16, 2026

UPDATE: 2:55 PM EDT –

Data obtained by BBC Verify suggests that the Admiral Grigorovich has been in the Channel for an extended period, repeatedly being re-supplied by a repair vessel, so that it can escort shadow-fleet vessels through these waters.

Based on satellite images it has reviewed, the BBC says the frigate has been re-supplied by the PM-82, an Amur class repair ship, while operating between the Channel and the North Sea in recent months.

In April, the frigate was reported to have escorted six shadow fleet vessels through the Channel while being monitored by the Royal Navy.

Two scenarios with the yacht

1️⃣🇷🇺 response to Smyrtos boarding this weekend – #greyzone
2️⃣Risk of collision with drifting⛵️in low viz, followed by Ch 16 warning(?) then shot across bow in ‘self defence’ – #maritimebuffoonery

Both equally likely, I’d say…

— Tom Sharpe (@TomSharpe134) June 16, 2026

UPDATE: 3:00 PM EDT –

At least one Royal Air Force P-8 Poseidon has transited from its base in Scotland to patrol the Channel this evening, according to publicly available flight-tracking data. The maritime patrol aircraft is very likely tasked wth monitoring Russian naval activity in the area.

More details of the incident have been reported by Deborah Haynes, the security and defense editor at Sky News.

Haynes writes on X that the Russian frigate “fired a couple of warning shots” close to the yacht in the Channel after also sounding an alert to avoid it sailing too close. Citing an unnamed defense source, Haynes reports that it is understood that the Admiral Grigorovich appears to be having difficulty controlling its movements, perhaps due to a propulsion issue. 

The warning shots “were certainly not fired at the yacht,” the same source said.

Additionally, while the Admiral Grigorovich has been escorting Russian-flagged vessels through the Channel in recent months, Haynes writes that it was not involved with escorting the Smyrtos, which was boarded by British forces at the weekend.

UPDATE: A Russian warship fired a couple of warning shots close to a UK-registered yacht in the Channel after also sounding an alert to avoid it sailing too close, a defence source said. 
Investigations are still underway to establish exactly what happened. 
From what is…

— Deborah Haynes (@haynesdeborah) June 16, 2026

UPDATE: 3:05 PM EDT –

After reaching out to the U.K. Ministry of Defense for more clarification, TWZ received the following from a spokesperson:

“Following attempts to contact a British vessel in the Channel, the Grigorovich fired warning shots. These were not aimed at the vessel and were an attempt to prevent a possible collision.”

“We assess that this is an isolated incident and not linked to the UK’s interception of the Smyrtos this weekend. HMS Mersey has been monitoring the Russian vessel and support has been provided to the crew of the yacht.”

“We assess that the Grigorovich was displaying to other vessels that it was drifting rather than being manoeuvred under power, which may have made her feel more vulnerable, leading to warning shots being fired.”

“We assess that after sounding warnings, the Grigorovich fired several warning shots, but these were not aimed at the yacht.”

The spokesperson told us that they further assess that the shots fired were single rounds, rather than automatic fire.

Contact the author: thomas@thewarzone.com

OUR Spotlight ON column takes an in-depth look at the best things to see and do in popular holiday destinations, as well as shining a light on some lesser-known spots.

This week we’re focusing on Folkestone, the newly-revived Kentish coastal town.

The Sun’s Deputy Travel Editor Kara Godfrey, who lives there, has shared some of her best kept secrets.

She said: “Being just 52 minutes from London, Folkestone is one of the easiest beach towns to get to by train in the country.

“It hopes to reopen the funicular again this summer after years, and you can find live music most weekends at the harbour too.

“My favourite spot? Gaia Studios for a huge cocktail list (and they’re branching out into brunch too).”

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MUST SEE / DO

Who says art only belongs in a gallery? The UK’s largest outdoor art trail winds through Folkestone and is completely free.

There are contributions from 46 artists including Antony Gormley, Tracey Emin and Yoko Ono. See if you can spot the Banksy too!

HIDDEN GEM

A picturesque zig zag path from the clifftops leads down to the Lower Leas Coastal Park.

The linear coastal gardens feel tucked away under the cliffs and are well-maintained with impressive planting and a prime spot right alongside the beach.

If that wasn’t enough there’s also the South East’s largest free adventure playground which is being rebuilt and will open in the summer.

BEST VIEW

There’s nothing like enjoying the view of the sea, particularly at the end of the Harbour Arm sipping a glass of something bubbly at the Lighthouse Champagne bar.

Pick up a bite to eat from the many food stalls and restaurants on the arm or indulge in some independent shopping.

The Harbour Arm also boasts the UK’s largest beach spa so the best view might just be from the sauna, hot tub or a cold plunge barrel!

RATED RESTAURANT

The award-winning Rocksalt, a two-rosette restaurant overlooking the harbour, is where you will find the best seafood in town.

Make sure to try the seared Folkestone scallops, alongside a chunky piece of fresh bread made by Docker brewery just down the road.

A short drive away in Saltwood the only two star Michelin restaurant in the whole of Kent.

Hide & Fox serves modern British cuisine in an intimate and relaxed environment.

BEST BAR

The Radnor Arms came fifth in the Good Food Guide’s list of 100 best pubs in Britain.

It’s a cosy, renovated Victorian pub in the Bouverie district  serving a locally-sourced menu with roasts, brunches and  themed evenings including flatbreads, Asian night and steak night.

Prohibition-inspired speakeasy The Potting Shed only opens on Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings.

Obtain the password to slip into the backroom and be rewarded with a carefully crafted cocktail menu inspired by the underground culture of the speakeasy bars of the 1920s.

HOTEL PICK

Voco The Clifton is a traditional Victorian hotel with rooms decorated by local artists and views of the Channel, as well as Marco Pierre White Steakhouse Bar & Grill. 

Rooms from  £100 per night.

Or try the Burlington Best Western, a Victorian 4* hotel overlooking the famous Leas Promenade and the English Channel. 

Rooms from £75 per room per night.

LONDON isn’t necessarily known for its gardens – but it does have some spectacular green spaces.

In fact Syon Park in Hounslow has just been named the ‘best public garden in London‘.

The gardens at Syon Park were named the best in London by White Stores, experts of outdoor living.

They looked at 240 gardens in total, totting up the best from factors like on-site attractions to Google ratings, reviews – even average amount of rainfall and sunshine.

Topping the table was Syon Park in Hounslow, West London.

The entire estate is one of the Duke of Northumberland‘s homes – its been owned by the family for over 400 years.

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While it is still a family home, the house, along with the award-winning gardens are open to the public on certain days during the week.

Of course the Bath stone manor is impressive, but it’s the grounds that you have to check out this summer.

There’s 100 acres of parkland on the estate with trees, grassland, wildflower meadows and an ornamental lake.

One called it a “hidden gem” which “exceeded expectations.”

While you’re having a stroll around the gardens, it will be hard to miss the enormous glasshouse.

The conservatory has an enormous dome-shaped roof and was once used to grow exotic plants from countries like South Africa and Australia.

The building was neglected during World War One, but was restored in the late 1980s.

Fans of Netflix‘s Bridgerton might recognise Syon Park; the glasshouse conservatory was used as a venue for Lady Danbury’s ball in series two.

Kylie Minogue and Little Mix even filmed music videos in there.

If you want to visit the estate, Syon Park is open on Mondays, Tuesdays and Sundays between 10.30AM and 3.30PM.

Tickets to the gardens and conservatory start from £7 for adults, £5.50 for concessions and £3.50 for children (between 5-16).

If tickets are bought on the door it’s £1 more expensive.

While it’s a private home, some state rooms at Syon Park are open to explore.

It has a huge Great Hall with patterned tiled floor and Greek-style columns.

The Ante Room (essentially a waiting room) has gold detailing with paintings of Greek and Roman gods on the walls.

Others that visitors can see are the state dining room, drawing room, gallery, print room and Princess Victoria’s bedroom.

You can get a glimpse of the inner courtyard too which has a pretty fountain and neat hedges.

If you want to visit the whole estate, including the house, it’s a little more expensive – with an advance ticket, it costs £16.50 for adults.

For concessions it’s £15, children between 5-16 it’s £9.50 – children under five go free.

Again, entry on the door is an extra £1 on top of the online ticket price.

A NEW cafe right by the beach has opened and it looks like it could be in Spain.

Southsea Beach Cafe has turned the former Beach Club into its second cafe in time for the summer.

Inspired by beach bars across Europe, the fringed umbrellas and rattan chairs wouldn’t look out of place in an Ibiza bar.

Serving breakfast and lunch, you can get all the classic of a Full English or avocado on toast, as well as burgers and fish and chips.

They also serve alcohol including cocktails and grazing boards.

Live music evenings will also return this summer, including Jazz Cafe nights and 5 Nights of Sumer with “sunset dining, European sharing platters and cocktails by the sea” along with music.

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Tickets start from £10, and run from 7pm to 9pm.

Otherwise the cafe is only open in the day, from 9am to 5pm, (or 3pm in the week).

The cafe’s general manager Elisa Standley told local media: “I think this place has completely reformed the beachfront – it’s taken a modern twist of what we used to do, and it’s expanded what we do in a better way.

“It’s got probably the best view in Southsea.”

Outside of the cafe, Southsea is set to double the size of its beach and improve the size promenade.

Locals have also explained why they think Southsea is the best seaside town in the UK.

Here are 10 other beach bars in the UK that feel more like being abroad.

A GORGEOUS lido with sweeping city views is returning to the UK – and it’s completely free to visit.

The open-water lido will be open for a three-week period this summer.

Lidos are the ideal spot to cool off this summer, but for most Londoners finding a free swimming spot in the capital can be difficult to come by.

For city dwellers looking to escape the scorching temperatures without breaking the bank, the return of a popular water space has got you covered.

Found in the heart of East London, the Summer Splash event is returning for a brief time this summer – and it doesn’t cost a penny.

Located at the Royal Victoria Dock, the free open water lido will be open to visitors this July.

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But for those looking to enjoy the outdoor pool, you’ll want to act fast as it will only be open for three weeks.

Surrounded by sweeping city views, the seasonal swimming area will be open daily between Friday, July 24, and Sunday, August 16.

The safe water space features lifeguard-supervised swimming alongside sandpits, deckchairs and sun-safe areas.

As part of Summer Splash, visitors can also expect a programme of family activities and lane swimming.

The free open water lido is part of the At The Docks summer season of events.

Other events include the London T100 Triathlon, the immersive House of Dreamers exhibition and a production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream

A BRAND-NEW venue for Mamma Mia! The Party is set to be built in a major UK city.

It will be the third venue in the world and the second in England.

It’s been proposed that a new dedicated venue be built in Medlock Square in Manchester.

Medlock Square is the city’s entertainment district where visitors will find Co-op Live and the Etihad Stadium.

Inside, the venue would be space for 600 people to watch the theatrical show that is set up to look like a traditional Greek taverna.

Currently there are only two ‘Mamma Mia! The Party’ venues in the world – one in Stockholm and the other at the O2 Arena in London.

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It would mean that those who are a fan of ABBA living in the North of England wouldn’t have to trek down to London to see the show.

And while it’s still in its early stages, it could become a reality as the plans have been recommended to go ahead by the council.

Jessica Koravos, the Chief Executive of Pophouse, said: “Manchester is known for its innovation in music and entertainment and we cannot think of anywhere better to bring one of the world’s most popular and ground breaking theatrical productions.

“Mamma Mia! The Party has been hugely successful in London and we are excited to be able to expand on that success.”

Unlike ABBA Voyage – which is another themed experience, Mamma Mia! The Party is a little different.

Visitors sit down for a three-course meal all the while feeling like they’re in a restaurant on the island of Skopelos.

Around the diners, a story unfolds and there are many ABBA songs to enjoy from Mamma Mia to Dancing Queen, and lesser-known ones too.

When the show comes to a close, it’s still not over as there’s a disco where all guests can have a dance too.

Ticket prices for Mamma Mia! The Party start from £122.

If you want to read more about what the show is like, check out what Head of Sun Travel (Digital) Caroline McGuire thought when she went to ‘Greece’.