escape

With dramatic wild landscapes of mountains and lochs, rugged coastlines and remote islands, Scotland is the perfect place to really get away from it all. We want to hear about your favourite wild escapes, whether it was a stay in an off-grid cabin or bothy, a solo hike on a less-visited trail or mountain, or a romantic break on a windswept isle.

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A HUGE multi-million pound upgrade is set to transform two popular holiday parks in the UK.

The two holiday parks are Parkdean’s Skipsea Sands Holiday Park in East Yorkshire and Thorness Bay Holiday Park on the Isle of Wight.

At Skipsea Sands Holiday Park, there will be number of new activities including an indoor adventure climbing experience, indoor adventure golf and off-road driving experiences for children aged four and over.

The play areas, both indoors and outdoors, will be expanded including the bounce park, sports court and a Bear Grylls themed escape room.

The park will also add a Scoops Ice Cream shop and Joe’s American Grill as well as have a new outdoor entertainment space with seating.

The £5million investment is set to be completed by Easter 2027.

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Steve Richards, CEO at Parkdean Resorts, said: “We’re committed to investing £5million in Skipsea Sands Holiday Park, upgrading our accommodation and further enhancing the holiday experience for guests and owners in East Yorkshire.

“From exciting new activities that include adventure golf and high ropes to an enhanced food and drink offering, there will be even more for families and holidaymakers to enjoy.”

Then, as for Thorness Bay Holiday Park on the Isle of Wight, the £6millon transformation will include a new high ropes, indoor adventure golf and off-road driving experiences for children aged four and over as well.

Just like Skipsea, the indoor and outdoor play areas will be improved too, with a bounce park, sports court and a Bear Grylls themed escape room.

The park will also gain a new two-storey building that will be home to the Hat-Tricks sports bar with interactive darts, pool and shuffleboard.

Food and drinks spots will also be expanded at the park with a new Scoops Ice Cream parlour, a Joe’s American Grill and Thunderbird Strip Shack.

And once again similar to Skipsea’s expansion, there will be new outdoor areas for entertainment and dining.

Steve Richards, CEO at Parkdean Resorts, said: “This investment reflects our continued commitment to supporting local jobs, tourism and economic growth in the communities where we operate.

“We look forward to welcoming guests to a new and improved Thorness Bay from Easter 2027.”

A number of other Parkdean Resorts parks have recently undergone upgrades including Highfield Grange Holiday Park in Essex and Vauxhall Holiday Park in Great Yarmouth.

Vauxhall Holiday Park revealed its £5million upgrade earlier this year, with a new sports bar, darts and indoor adventure golf.

The holiday park has also been upgraded to include more kids’ play zones as well as high rope courses.

The spot is renowned for its striking chalk cliffs, charming villages and coastal walks – making it the perfect autumn getaway for families and couples

With its untouched landscapes, fascinating heritage and tranquil way of life, one UK destination has become a haven for ramblers, nature lovers and tourists looking for a serene seaside retreat. West Wight, located on the western edge of the Isle of Wight, is famous for its dramatic chalk cliffs, delightful villages and endless attractions.

Getting to the Isle of Wight is remarkably easy. Red Funnel operates services between Southampton and the Island via both car ferry and rapid foot-passenger routes, meaning you can bring your vehicle or rely entirely on public transport.

October makes an ideal time for a visit now the summer holiday crowds have dispersed.

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The Needles and Alum Bay

Amongst the Isle of Wight’s most iconic sights, The Needles comprise a series of impressive chalk formations rising majestically from the ocean off the island’s western shore.

Close by, Alum Bay is renowned for its rainbow-hued sand cliffs, sweeping coastal panoramas and classic seaside diversions, establishing it as a must-visit destination for those discovering the region. When visibility is good, the surrounding shoreline provides magnificent views stretching across the English Channel.

Freshwater and Freshwater Bay

Freshwater ranks among West Wight’s main settlements, providing gateway access to some of the island’s most beautiful coastal landscapes. Just south of the village, Freshwater Bay boasts a stunning shingle beach framed by dramatic chalk cliffs.

The spot is perfect for coastal walks, photography and soaking up the seaside atmosphere, with swimming on offer when conditions allow.

Tennyson Down and the coastal paths

Perched above Freshwater Bay, Tennyson Down is a vast expanse of open grassland that provides some of the Isle of Wight’s most spectacular walking routes.

The area is named after Victorian poet Alfred, Lord Tennyson, who resided close by at Farringford. Visitors can take in sweeping sea views, rolling countryside and the chance to spot local wildlife, making it a firm favourite amongst walkers and nature enthusiasts.

Yarmouth

Nestled on the island’s north-west coast, Yarmouth is a historic harbour town renowned for its charming streets, independent shops, traditional pubs and cafés.

The town is also home to Yarmouth Castle, a historic coastal fortification, and acts as a key ferry hub linking the Isle of Wight with Lymington in Hampshire.

With its rich maritime heritage and laid-back atmosphere, Yarmouth provides a delightful contrast to the island’s larger, more bustling resorts.

Weather in October

October in West Wight typically brings mild yet unpredictable weather, making it an attractive time for coastal walks, countryside adventures and discovering quieter seaside villages. Visitors should come prepared for the odd shower and breezy spells.

Daytime temperatures typically sit between 13°C and 16°C, while night-time lows usually hover around 8°C to 11°C. Periods of sunshine can feel comfortably mild, though temperatures dip considerably once the sun goes down.

How to get to West Wight

By car

One of the easiest ways to reach West Wight is via the Wightlink car ferry from Lymington, located in the New Forest, to Yarmouth on the Isle of Wight.

The journey takes approximately 40 minutes, providing a simple route for drivers heading to the western side of the island. Upon arrival in Yarmouth, travellers can quickly access nearby spots such as Freshwater Bay, Totland and The Needles.

Without a car

Those travelling without a vehicle can catch a train to Portsmouth Harbour before hopping on the Wightlink FastCat passenger ferry to Ryde Pier Head on the Isle of Wight.

The crossing takes roughly 22 minutes, making it an efficient choice for those on foot. From Ryde, connecting bus services through Newport link passengers to West Wight, including Freshwater and the nearby coastal communities.

This town has gorgeous coastal walks as well as plenty to explore

Summer has drawn to a close and autumn has arrived. While summer is a wonderful season for getting away, there’s no reason the enjoyment has to end when temperatures drop.

Indeed, autumn ranks among the most spectacular times of year across the UK.

The foliage transforms into golden hues, tourist numbers dwindle and settling into a welcoming pub following a lengthy ramble epitomises the perfect autumn pursuit.

If you’re seeking a UK destination that truly comes alive during autumn, there’s a delightful seaside town in Cornwall that might tick all the boxes.

According to research conducted by credit card firm Zable, Fowey in Cornwall emerges as the best value location for an autumn staycation. It’s not merely affordable though – it’s also a charming harbour town brimming with things to discover.

The town sits proudly on the banks of the river Fowey and traces its roots back to medieval times.

Its naturally deep water harbour established it as a significant historical port and commercial hub throughout the centuries, while the streets showcase magnificent Victorian and Edwardian architecture.

The region surrounding Fowey also holds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty status.

If you fancy exploring the town’s surrounding landscape, then the creeks and coves walk is absolutely essential. This four-mile circular route incorporates two ferry crossings and highlights the magnificent woodlands and coastal pathways that cradle the town.

The walk requires two to three hours including ferry journeys and looks absolutely stunning at this time of year. However, if you’d prefer to remain in the town itself then you certainly won’t be short of things to do.

Fowey boasts a thriving high street brimming with independent shops and boutiques that are ideal for an afternoon of browsing.

Fore Street serves as the town’s main high street and its twisting alleyways offer a wonderful way to while away an afternoon.

Make sure to pop into Jo Downes Handmade Glass for locally blown glass artworks, or Heather Jane and Co., which features art from 180 local makers.

Round off your day at a quintessential Cornish pub, the Ship Inn on Trafalgar Square. This historic establishment was built in 1570 and features a huge open fire ideal for a relaxing autumn pint.

This beautiful city offers a quieter alternative to the UK’s busiest festive destinations, with a magnificent medieval cathedral, riverside walks and traditional pubs to warm up in.

Christmas markets might put Bath, York and Edinburgh high on your winter travel wish list, but Norwich has plenty to tempt anyone seeking a quieter staycation.

With its medieval landmarks, independent shops and welcoming pubs, the city combines festive atmosphere with opportunities to slow down and explore. Spend a day browsing for gifts, strolling beside the river or admiring the cathedral before settling in somewhere cosy.

Norwich is Britain’s only city located within a national park — one of its major draws.

Norwich was among the leading UK staycation destinations picked by specialists at StressFreeCarRental.com in 2024. The company’s CEO, John Charnock, said: “As the nights draw in and the temperatures plummet, it’s inevitable that many of us start to feel a little down at this time of year.

“The picturesque Broads National Park has miles and miles of footpaths for visitors to truly feel at one with nature and help to keep active. Norwich is a great city to connect with the outdoors and practice ecotherapy.”

Back in the city, Norwich Cathedral is a highlight for visitors drawn to its medieval architecture. Its appeal extends beyond the building itself, with Christmas services, concerts and a light show adding to the festive experience.

On TripAdvisor, one recent visitor to the cathedral said: “Visited early on a Friday morning as the Cathedral was being prepared for the weekend with Flower arrangers busy creating displays. We had a lovely chat with one of the volunteers.

“A lovely building made of Caen Stone. We visited the grave of brave Edith Cavell. There is small gift shop if you wish to purchase something. Beautiful grounds around the building.”

While another recent visitor added: “An outstanding cathedral. Well worth visiting. Entry fee is a suggested £5. Wonderful cloisters and some very interesting and historic graves and monuments. I would definitely go back as there is so much to see.”

For Christmas shopping, Norwich offers a mix of independent retailers and familiar high street names. Its bustling marketplace, shopping centres and Norwich Lanes provide plenty of places to hunt for gifts and keepsakes.

Rather than one huge Christmas market, the city has a collection of smaller festive events showcasing local creativity. There are also multiple Christmas markets and late-night shopping on Thursdays in the run-up to Christmas.

Seasonal lights and decorations brighten the streets, while historic venues including The Assembly House and The Maids Head Hotel add to the celebrations.

When it’s time for a break from browsing, the decorated Norwich Lanes make an inviting setting for a leisurely wander. Alternatively, head out from Norwich railway station for a walk beside the River Wensum.

Along the riverside, sights include Pull’s Ferry, Cow Tower and Norwich Cathedral, with pubs such as the Compleat Angler and The Red Lion offering somewhere to stop for a drink.

For a longer dose of history, try the city’s circular walking route, which follows the Wensum and crosses ancient bridges. Medieval city walls, the imposing castle and churches are among the landmarks to look out for.

Norwich’s oldest pub, The Adam and Eve, is conveniently placed along the route. And after a day spent exploring in the winter air, one of the city’s traditional pubs with a crackling fire could be just the place to finish.