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.
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El Murrino Beachside Kitchen in Bournemouth is said to feel like the MedCredit: Google mapsThe beach bar even has VIP cabanas you can bookCredit: El Murrino Beachside Kitchen
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.
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.
The beach bar sits right on the beach as wellCredit: Google mapsAnd in the summer they host live DJ sessionsCredit: El Murrino Beachside Kitchen
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 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.
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Birnbeck Pier in Weston-super-Mare is getting a £20million renovation to reopenCredit: Getty
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’.
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.
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King of the sandcastle Jasper on the beachCredit: SuppliedTop of the chops Wilf axe throwingCredit: Supplied
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.
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.
It’s game on as the boys play giant JengaCredit: Supplied
GO: UNITY BEACH
STAYING THERE: Four nights’ self-catering in a platinum three-bed caravan, sleeping six, at Unity Beach Brean is from £879 for arrival in July.
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.
Burford Bridge Lido in Surrey is surrounded by sunloungers and parasolsCredit: Facebook/The Burford Bridge LidoThe lido is on the grounds of the Sunday Box Hill Burford HotelCredit: Oyo Rooms
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.
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.
Burford Bridge Lido has visitors saying they feel like they’re ‘on holiday’Credit: Facebook/The Burford Bridge Lido
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.
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A high and low ropes course was just one of the many activities on offer for the kidsCredit: Matt KealAs well as a knife-throwing magician, above, the feelgood fun on site includes X Factor stars Reggie ’n’ Bollie, a Taylor Swift tribute act, and stand-up comedyCredit: Supplied
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.
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.
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.
Frankie-Beu sets sail on the boating lakeCredit: SuppliedThe boys kitted out for some climbing actionCredit: Supplied
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.
Nearby must-visit attractions include a 50m Ferris wheel, the Sea Life centre and a circusCredit: SuppliedThe kids try out the fantastic fairground crazy golf courseCredit: Supplied
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.
Weekly insights and analysis on the latest developments in military technology, strategy, and foreign policy.
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.
HMS Mersey (foreground) seen here monitoring the Russian frigate Admiral Grigorovich (left) and the Kilo class submarine Krasnodar (center-left) in April of this year. Crown Copyright
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…
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.
The vessel Smyrtos is boarded by Royal Marines from 42 Commando and U.K. law enforcement officers on June 14. Crown Copyright
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
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
Data obtained by BBC Verifysuggests 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
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…
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.
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.
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Here is everything you need to know about visiting FolkestoneCredit: Alamy
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).”
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!
The beach is big enough to never need to fight for spaceCredit: Alamy
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.
Rocksalt has amazing views over the harbourCredit: Alamy
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.
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‘.
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The gardens at Syon Park have been declared the ‘best public gardens in London’Credit: Alamy
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.
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.
Syon House is a private home but parts are open to the public on certain daysCredit: AlamyOn the grounds are wildflower meadows, trees and an ornamental lakeCredit: Alamy
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.
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.
Otherwise the cafe is only open in the day, from 9am to 5pm, (or 3pm in the week).
Guests can book in for sunset music sessions in the evening tooCredit: Instagram/southseacafeThe outdoor terrace has direct views of the seaCredit: Solent
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.
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.
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A gorgeous new lido with sweeping city views is returning this JulyCredit: royaldocks.londonLocated in East London, the water space is completely free for visitorsCredit: Royal docks/Instagram
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.
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.
If plans go-ahead it could appear in ManchesterCredit: Manchester CityThe venue is set to be build near Co-op Live and the Etihad StadiumCredit: Manchester City
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.
A BRITISH seaside town has unveiled plans for a £1.8million makeover.
The picturesque coastal area is set to introduce a car-free promenade along with new shops, outdoor seating and beach-side gardens.
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Felixstowe is a popular seaside spot in SuffolkCredit: kk_ttProposals for a £1.8million makeover have been put forwardCredit: Jonathan Wilson
Felixstowe boasts sandy shores and sweet coloured beach huts along with an Edwardian pier that’s 2,640 ft long.
The Suffolk port town attracts thousands of tourists every summer, providing a quintessential British seaside experience.
And now the are has unveiled plans to give the beachy location a £1.8million revamp.
The South Seafront Project aims to “create a beautiful, welcoming environment which supports the visitor economy as well as benefitting both residents and businesses”.
The plans outlined by East Suffolk Council add that the makeover will focus on ensuring the “seafront continues to be a viable tourism destination” as well as making Felixstowe an “attractive place to live, work and visit all year round”.
The council also hope to “address the higher levels of deprivation in the South Seafront area” with the refurbishments.
The budget will be used to improve lighting and signage along the seafront plus boosting the town’s transport options and providing better access to the front.
Cars could be banned from the road along the promenade in order to create opportunities for independent stores, food outlets, outdoor seating and garden spaces.
While the finer details of the proposals are still being developed, it is hoped that councillors will give backing to the plans.
If the work is able to go ahead, it’s predicted that it will be able to begin by next spring.
AN ENGLISH town that was once considered one of the most important places in the country will get a massive train station upgrade.
This multi-million pound refurbishment is set to improve access for passengers and support businesses.
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A historic railway station has been granted government funding for new upgradesCredit: Getty Images – GettyBletchley Station will get a £17million revamp which hopes to improve accessibilityCredit: Alamy
Bletchley Station will receive £17million to support the refurbishment of the eastern access to the station.
This comes after a lot of campaigning from both the Milton Keynes community and MPs to improve the accessibility to the station.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves said on the announcement: “Labour is backing Bletchley – this investment will boost jobs and improve connectivity for local businesses and residents, maximising the benefits of East West Rail for the community here.”
Milton Keynes Council is also offering £5million towards the project, that aims to support the ongoing regeneration of Bletchley.
The project hopes to refurbish the eastern entrance of the station, creating a direct gateway between the station and Bletchley’s main high street, Queensway.
At the moment, passengers alighting at the station have a long walk under a bridge to get to the town centre, crossing a busy road.
The new entrance will be built on Saxon Street, on the other side of the station, with the existing entrance set to remain open.
Bletchley Station is located on the first section of the East West Rail line, which hopes to eventually connect Oxford and Cambridge by train.
New station designs will connect commuters leaving the station with the nearby high streetCredit: East West RailBletchley Station was a transport hub for the World War II codebreakersCredit: Living Archive
Historically, Bletchley Station served as a vital transport hub for the World War II codebreakers, who would take the five-minute walk to Bletchley Park.
Now, Bletchley Park is one of Britain’s most vibrant heritage attractions, welcoming over 250,000 tourists a year.
Callum Anderson, MP for Buckingham and Bletchley, said: “This is a huge moment for Bletchley as it has never made sense that our station has turned its back on the town centre, making it harder for residents, commuters and visitors to access Queensway.”
David Hughes, chief executive of East West Rail, said: “We are really pleased to see that funding has now been confirmed to allow the construction of the new eastern entrance at Bletchley station.
“This investment underlines our commitment to working with partners to ensure East West Rail delivers lasting benefits for passengers and communities along the route.”
Details on the timeline and construction phases of the project are yet to be announced.
A BUSTLING airport has hit overnight travellers with doubled drop-off rates.
This regional hub is officially pricier than Heathrow, the biggest airport in the UK.
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Bournemouth Airport has hiked up parking costs, with some charges doubling for visitorsCredit: GettyHolidaymakers will now have to pay £15 for a short-stay pick-up and drop-offCredit: Alamy
Bournemouth Airport has upped its short-stay pick-up and drop-off charges, with some fares doubled.
From June 1, motorists who use the pick-up and drop-off zone of the car park will now have to pay £8 for up to 30 minutes of parking – an increase of £2 from last year.
Stays between 30 and 60 minutes have doubled in price, now costing £15 to park, compared to £7.50 previously, with one to four-hour parking priced at £20.
Now, Bournemouth is charging more for its short stays than Heathrow Airport, despite being considerably smaller.
“People flying in after the Easter holidays were being charged £8 to leave and had no idea what was going on.
“We had told customers it would be £6 – you cannot suddenly charge them more.”
Over a million holidaymakers fly from Bournemouth Airport every year, handling over 10,000 take-offs.
Passengers can fly to over 40 locations from the Mediterranean to North Africa.
Now, those hoping to jet off from Bournemouth this summer have shared their anger at the price hike, with flyers calling it “ridiculously expensive” and “madness”.
Others called it a “rip off” and a “con”, with some criticising that the quality of the car park does not warrant the cost.
A spokesperson for Bournemouth Airport told the Bournemouth Daily Echo: “We understand that no-one welcomes increased charges, but our airport group is facing sharp rises in costs including a tripling of business rates, higher employment costs such as National Insurance and rising energy costs.
“At the same time, we continue to invest millions of pounds in maintaining the airport infrastructure needed to provide an essential public service in our regions.
“We cannot keep absorbing these increased costs without passing some of the additional burden on to our customers.”
A HOLIDAY park with bright blue waters compared to the Maldives has been named the best in the UK.
Clawford Lakes Resort and Spa won the best Camping, Glamping and Holiday Park of the Year in VisitEngland’s Awards for Excellence 2026.
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Clawford Lakes and Spa has overwater bungalows and podsCredit: HoseasonsInside is an open living area with huge floor windows for pretty lake viewsCredit: Clawford Lakes Resort and Spa
Clawford Lakes Resort and Spa is a 98-acre estate that sits outside of Clawton and is described as a “Devon delight” surrounded by private bright blue lakes.
One visitor even said: “Clawford Lakes is an absolutely stunning venue. The lakes look like something from the Maldives – such a stunning blue colour! It’s nice and peaceful as well.”
Visitors can also enjoy views across the water from a private deck.
Even if it’s raining, the views can still be seen as the pods have floor to ceiling windows, they also have open plan living and dining areas with a kitchen.
Theysleepup to four people, with a double bed and sofa bed meaning both couples and families can stay there – all of them are dog-friendly too.
One visitor compared the Lake Pods to those you’d find in the MaldivesCredit: Clawford Lakes Resort and Spa
The Luxury Cocoons are for those who want to try glamping – they have an open plan double bed, kitchen, dining and living area.
Other accommodation options include luxury apartments, holiday lodges and homes.
For those who’d prefer not to swim in the lake itself, the holiday park opened a new 25-metre heated outdoor pool last year – and it has three flumes.
It might be an angler’s paradise, but there’s plenty more to do for those less interested in fishing.
Guests can sign up to try their hand at archery, hire bikes and head out around the resort and during the school holidays there’s family entertainment.
For relaxing, guests should head to the spa where an infinity pool hangs over the lake.
The outdoor pool opened last year and has three flumesCredit: Facebook/Clawford Lakes
There are lots of treatments on offer too from facials to massages, reflexology and even sessions with a nutrition expert.
With so much to do, many guests return to Clawford Lakes with lots commenting on how ‘beautiful’ and ‘peaceful’ it is.
Another said: “Clawford Lakes is perfect for anyone looking for a relaxing and peaceful getaway surrounded by the beautiful Devon countryside.”
While the accommodation comes with full-fitted kitchens, there’s also an onsite is a restaurant and bar called The Apple & Grape for those who don’t fancy cooking.
If visitors fancy a trip to the beach, nearby is Bude, Widemouth Bay, Simmerleaze Beach, Crooklets Beach and Padstow.
A STUNNING 25-acre lavender field is opening to the public for summer.
From this weekend, visitors will be able to visit a sprawling purple paradise for the ultimate picturesque walk.
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Mayfield Lavender Farm is opening its gates once againCredit: PA:Press AssociationThe purple fields are a short journey from LondonCredit: Oliver Dixon – http://www.olliedixon.co
Mayfield Lavender Farm offers expansive floral fields, perfect for frolicking, and welcomes visitors during the warmer months every year.
With the lavender plants blooming once again, the Surrey farm is open for days out from Saturday, June 6.
Opening hours are from 9am to 6pm every day, with last entries at 5:15pm.
With 25-acres of sensationally scented land to explore, the area is located in Banstead, just 15 miles from central London.
It also provides the perfect backdrop for some striking photography or a serene summer stroll.
The Surrey attraction is open from June 6Credit: Getty ImagesTickets are affordable and guests can enjoy a tractor ride around the fields
With the farm’s gates set to remain open until August 23, flower fans can expect the plants to offer the best blooms in mid July.
There’s even a contrasting red phone box nestled amongst the violet buds that provides a rather aesthetically pleasing Instagram photo opportunity.
Entry to Mayfield is affordable with ticket prices for adults and children over 11 starting from £7.40. Tickets for little ones aged between four and 11 start at £2.50, while under fours get in for free.
General admission tickets allow entry to the fields with access to the on-site cafe and shop.
There’s also the option to pay a little more for the likes of a tractor ride around the fields, the opportunity to adopt a lavender plant and get access to the farm’s potting station.
Tickets can be purchased upon arrival, but it’s recommended to grab them online before you go during busier periods like weekends and school holidays.
There is free parking on site, too, although it is limited.
Visitors can also make their way to the lavender farm via train from London Bridge Station to Woodmansterne, with services taking as little as 40 minutes.
AN English busway, hailed as the longest in the world, is on track to get a £150million upgrade.
Building work on the busway is set to begin in January 2027, with construction hoping to improve travel times and reliability for commuters.
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A connection between Cambourne and Cambridge is set to join the buswayCredit: AlamyThe busway currently spans 25km, making it the longest in the worldCredit: Alamy
Cambourne and Cambridge are set to become connected by the busway, as Cambridgeshire County Council announces they are searching for contractors.
Named the Cambourne to Cambridge busway, or the C2C, the service will span the 13.6km distance between the locations.
The journey becomes part of the Cambridgeshire Guided Busway, a rapid transit service that connects Cambridge, Huntingdon and St Ives.
It is currently the longest busway in the world at 25km long, beating the O-Bahn Busway in Adelaide, South Australia.
Commuters will also get access to a new park and ride schemeCredit: AlamyThose interested have until the beginning of July to submit participation requestsCredit: Alamy
Plans will see a segregated guided busway with adjoining emergency and maintenance access tracks, including public transport stops between Cambourne and Cambridge.
A brand new Travel Hub, with a park and ride service, will also be constructed, providing spaces 2,000 spaces for cars, bikes, and coaches as part of the “turn up and go” scheme.
Constructing this busway aims to improve journey times and reliability of public transport, also creating jobs and more housing in the area.
The council estimates work to complete this upgrade will cost around £180million including VAT, and £150million without.
Now, interested contractors have until noon on July 2, 2026, to submit requests to participate in the construction, with the award decision date set for December.
It is hoped that construction will begin as early as January 4, 2027, and be completed in December 2030.
A GRAND new multi-million hotel is opening in Cornwall right by the beach and it will transport you straight to Italy.
Officially opening on June 15, The Nici in Newquay is “inspired by the sun-soaked glamour of the Amalfi Coast” and has the “indulgence of a Mediterranean escape”.
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The Nici Newquay will open on June 15Credit: NiciThe hotel has an Amalfi feel, with indoor and outdoor poolsCredit: Nici
The clifftop heated pool is the star of the show, with amazing views over the ocean as well as a poolside bar.
But the hotel will also have a spa described as a “coastal cocoon” with a heated indoor pool, hot tub, an aromatherapy sauna, a steam room and a hydrotherapy suite.
A cinema room and kids club will also be on-site to both adults and kids occupied.
In the restaurant – aptly named Amalfi’s – guests will be able to enjoy Italian-inspired such as handmade pizzas and salads.
A second restaurant is planned for 2027, called Tucker Rocks – a more casual dining spot meant to resemble a “clifftop Italian cafe” with live music and even a gelato counter.
And a unique feature at the hotel is the rare Victorian bathing lift that has been restored, so guests can get to Great Western Beach directly from the clifftop hotel.
Inside the hotel there will be 82 refurbished bedrooms and suites, some of which will have sea views.
Otherwise they will all be kitted out with the extras from Nespresso machines, Bluetooth speakers and fancy toiletries in the bathroom.
For those who like to keep fit, the hotel has a fully-equipped gym and fitness studios and juice bar for post-workout refreshments.
Guests can sign up to The Nici Club and get unlimited access to the spa, as well as exclusive events, too.
Inside there is also a spa with an aromatherapy sauna and steam roomCredit: NiciThe hotel also has a restaurant and cafe as wellCredit: Nici
Rooms at The Nici Newquay cost from £155 per night.
The destination used to be called Hotel Victoria before The Nici took it over and spent £20 million on transforming it.
The hotel is just a five-minute walk from Newquay train station, as well as a five minute walk from Great Western Beach.
If you want to head to one of the most popular beaches in the area – Fistral Beach – then it is just a six minute walk away.
There’s plenty to do in the surrounding area as well, with the hotel just steps away from Great Western Beach – a golden cove which is great for both surfing and rock pooling.
And if you fancy a cheap £1.99 pint, right by the hotel is The Towan Blystra, a Wetherspoons pub.
There’s direct access from the hotel to Great Western Beach tooCredit: Alamy
The Nici Newquay isn’t the only one to open in June, as The Nici New Forest will also open on June 15.
Sitting at the edge of the New Forest in the historic town of Lymington, the hotel is “inspired by the laidback sophistication of the Hamptons”.
Around the hotel, guests can explore woodland trails as well as heading down to the beach.
Another Nici hotel will also be opening in the New Forest on June 15Credit: Nici
She said: “Its chic-as interiors are super-Instagrammable – rooms are fresh white with bold, palm-print textiles and brass lighting, while ice-cream pastels, glitterballs and eye-catching artwork adorn the communal areas.
“As well as the beautiful pool, there’s a dinky cinema showing four films each day and a petite playroom with table football, giant Jenga and board games.
“Some rooms come with hot tubs, while others have freestanding baths – bag one with a sea view and you’ll wake up thinking you’re in the South of France!”
A POPULAR aquapark is reopening for the summer – and it’s coming with a brand new attraction.
Families will be able to enjoy the thrill-seeking ride alongside other water activities
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The six-meter super slide is the latest addition to the aqua parkCredit: At The Lake Distributing Inc.The adventure park has officially reopened for the summerCredit: At The Lake Distributing Inc.
Hangloose Adventure Bluewater, based at Bluewater Shopping Centre in Kent, has reopened for the summer season with a new towering attraction – a six-meter mega slide.
Named ‘El Jefe’ – the boss in Spanish- the super slide marks the latest addition to the park’s floating inflatable course.
Families can now navigate over 15 obstacles, climb balance beams, and complete the course on ‘El Jefe’, which will see them soar into the water below.
Described as an ‘exhilarating experience’ by the park, children as young as seven will be able to take part – as long as they reach the minimum height requirement of 1.2 meters.
Alongside the relaunch of the aqua park, Hangloose Adventure is also introducing a Thursday-only zipline offer.
Those who book a zipline ride will be able to have a second ride for free on the same day, with the promotion running until June 25.
The water park operates for seven days a week during the summer season, from 10am to 5pm.
Located in The Domes, Greenhithe, the park has been highly rated online.
The area also features a host of big attractions, including England’s longest zipline, Europe’s biggest swing, and the UK’s only outdoor indoor skydive tunnel.
For your chance to try out ‘El Jefe’ in person, a day out at the waterpark costs just £67 for a family of four.
AN abandoned English train station has been revamped with a £50,000 upgrade.
After years of disrepair, the 19th century station has now transformed into a luxury retreat that is opento the public.
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Rowden Mill Station in North Herefordshire has been transformed in a £50,000 renovationCredit: SWNSOwners Cecilia Chavez-Brandon and Paul Kirwan have kept the authentic 1950s feelCredit: SWNS
Rowden Mill Station in North Herefordshire has been renovated into a vintage-inspired hotel, offering the perfect retreat for keen trainspotters.
Cecilia Chavez-Brandon and husband Paul Kirwan took on this dream renovation project in 2017, paying £395,000 for the 2.7 acre site that had been abandoned since the 1950s.
The site was primarily used for moving injured soldiers to field hospitals during the war and transporting livestock, losing its appeal as cars became more popular in the 1950s.
Inside were original buildings and a set of train tracks, which they have modernised into an experience that transports visitors back to the 1950s and 1960s.
To add to the vintage feel, they bought an 18ft inspection saloon coach, coated with British Railway livery for historic railway fans.
Cecilia told SWNS: “It was not until the 1980s that the former owners found the station and bought it from the farmers.
“They built the rail track back. We arrived after they had been here 32 years and helped modernise it.
“They restored the station building and the parcel office and converted it into accommodation rather than a station.
“The booking office is now the kitchen, the waiting room is now the lounge. The gentleman’s toilet is now a full bathroom.
“The parcel office is a separate building and we converted it and put central heating in and new carpets. We turned that into a full studio with an ensuite.”
A steady stream of visitors can look around the renovated station, which has transformed ladies’ waiting areas into main bedrooms and carriages into accommodations.
Tourists can pay £260 per night to enjoy a luxurious stay overlooking the countryside in their renovated coaches fitted with an en suite and heating.
Visitors can pay £260 per night to stay in renovated train coachesCredit: SWNSThe location is an ideal spot for trainspotting enthusiasts who enjoy a countryside retreatCredit: SWNS
The main station building also has accommodation at £430 for two nights, or the Parcel Office studio at £220 for two nights.
Cecilia said: “We have a parcel office with a studio for two on the main platform. For anyone staying here, it’s like waking up in a railway station from the 1950s and 60s.”
The couple also bought an original 20-tonne brake van back in 2018 to create another luxury accommodation for the site.
Maintaining this beloved location has become a career for the couple: “We didn’t really start out as railway buffs but you obviously become one. It’s like going down a rabbit hole.
“You end up being a whole network of railway people and it’s really something amazing.
“The very first guest arrived in September 2017 and they came with books and were clear railway buffs and knew more about the branch line than we did at the time.
“In terms of guests we obviously have the railway buffs, even children with technical knowledge. We have station masters and train drivers – we get quite a range of fans.
“The whole site is great. It’s so peaceful, with gorgeous views and our other passion is nature. We’ve got our own meadows, hedgerows and wildlife ponds.”
EVERYONE loves a family day out, but let’s face it, everything is better when it’s free.
The much-loved Cotswold Farm Park run by Countryfile’s Adam Henson, has scooped up a Tripadvisor Traveller’s Choice Award for the last 15 years.
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Cotswold Farm Park has scooped up yet another Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice AwardCredit: Cotswold Farm Park HolidaysThe attraction has plenty of farm animals and an outdoor play area for kidsCredit: Cotswold Farm Park Holidays
Follow The Sun’s award-winning travel team on Instagram and Tiktok for top holiday tips and inspiration @thesuntravel.
To celebrate, the attraction is offering free tickets to children, toddlers and babies.
The T&Cs are that it’s one complimentary ticket to each paying adult and or senior guest, and the offer is only running until the end of May.
Families can take advantage of the offer through May half-term and on the bank holiday (but make sure to book in advance).
The farm park is open seven days a week with plenty of activities to enjoy from feeding time with lambs and baby goats to jumping on its bouncy castle and trying out the zip wire.
When it comes to animals, visitors can get up close and personal with lots of breeds.
Children can meet all the animals and even feed lambsCredit: Cotswold Farm Park Holidays
There’s Gillie the Jersey Cow, Marge the Middle White Pig, and Attenborough the Highland bull calf.
Feeding sessions with some of the youngest animals happen twice daily at 11.30AM and 3.30PM with lambs and baby goats.
There’s also a chance to watch chicks hatch as well as meet guinea pigs, rabbits and ducklings.
When it comes to playtime, children can head into the Adventure Barn – which is perfect for rainy days with didi cars and soft play.
Outside children can jump up and down on bouncy pillows, go on swings, zip wire, pedal tractors, explore the sandpit and climbing frame.
There’s a wooded area for bird-spotting and bee hive to take a look at too.
Cotswold Farm Park has it’s own restaurant with pizzas every Saturday eveningCredit: Cotswold Farm Park Holidays
Between May 23 and May 31 the farm is celebrating Bee Wild Week with new activities like daily talks from the farm’s beekeeper-in-training.
When it’s time to eat, head to The Ox Shed Restaurant for all-day dining from breakfast to dinner, and pizza evenings every Saturday night.
Families from further afield can book to stay on-site at the campsites.
It has tent pitches to glamping tents, luxury lodges and new cabins.
There’s a chance to stay on the nearby campsite in tents or luxury cabinsCredit: Cotswold Farm Park Holidays
A one-night stay on a grass tent pitch with electric starts from £67.
Head of Sun Travel (Digital) Caroline McGuire visited the farm park last year, she said: “Spring is easily the best time to visit any farm in the UK, as new lambs, chicks, calves and piglets all arrive noisily on the scene.
“Inside the Discovery Barn, which teaches children all about farm animals, my five-year-old son petted chicks and baby rabbits, and was lucky enough to see a lamb being born.
“We refuelled at the on-site Ox Shed restaurant, dining on burgers and loaded salads, washed down with apple juice and a glass of Adam Henson’s own pale ale for me.”