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THE SUN’S £9.50 Hols Agony Aunt, Tracey Kennedy has tried and tested holiday parks across the UK for over 30 years.

Over her decades of staycations, Tracy’s ticked off popular holiday spots from the Isle of Wight, to North Wales, down to Land’s End in Cornwall.

It’s fair to say that Tracy knows her stuff when it comes to UK holiday parks – whether it’s how to bag a bargain break, or find the best free and cheap family attractions whilst you’re away.

Over three decades of staying at holiday parks up and down the UK, Tracy has ranked her top five holiday parks based on accommodation, entertainment and location.

Plus she’s sharing all of the hacks she uses to save while she’s away.

We’ve paired each park with the cheapest deal available online, including three-night breaks for two for under £50.

5. Haven Burnham-on-Sea Holiday Village

“This holiday park is in a lovely seaside town in Somerset, and I like it so much that I’ve been back several times.

“My tip for booking a Haven holiday would be to book a Haven Hideaway package.

“These are the cheapest breaks possible, and can cost just £49pp. I paid just £120 for a full week away on a Haven Hideaway.

“However it’s worth noting that Hideaway holidays don’t come with a Play Pass as the standard breaks do, so make sure to check which activities are included at each Haven park, and which you would have to pay extra for”.

Entertainment and activities

“There’s plenty to do here without paying extra for the add-on activities. This site has a lovely arcade, which is cashless apart from the classic 2p machines.

“I wasn’t too keen on it being cashless at first, but once you’ve got your card and have topped it up with as much or little as you want, it’s easy to use.

“As for the evening entertainment, I went last year and it was really quite good. The comedy is especially great.

“With Haven parks, if you make sure to download the app, about 2 weeks before it’ll tell you which activities you can book if you have the Play Passes.

“But you dont need passes for the arcade or evening entertainment, it’s just for swimming and paid activities. They can be nice to have, but you don’t have to get them”.

Accommodation

“I stayed in a saver caravan, which is the lowest grade, but it still has heating and everything you need.

“I always go for the cheapest I can but that is still nice, and the saver option here is great if you’re looking to stay on a budget“.

Local area

“Burnham is a quiet town, so it can be quite a peaceful place to stay. There’s also a lovely beach and lighthouse in walking distance from the park, as well as a cinema. But mainly this is a great base for exploring.

“Brean is about a 10-minute drive away, and there’s loads to do there. Brean Beach is gorgeous, plus there’s a splash park, Brean Theme Park and an animal farm, so there’s loads to do.

“You’ve also got Cheddar Gorge a half-hour drive away. You can of course try loads of cheese, but there’s really fascinating caves and clifftop walks there, too.

“If you’re willing to drive a bit further, about 40 minutes, you can also visit Wells. There’s loads of medieval historic sites there, like Wells Cathedral as well as the Palace and gardens”.

Bag a cheap stay

You can book a four-night stay in a saver caravan with a Haven Hideaways deal from £49, based on two adults sharing. This deal also comes with a low-deposit option from £30.

4. Riverside Holiday Village, Bleadon, Weston-super-Mare

“I went to this holiday park last year for my 50th, and had such a fantastic time. I have lots of memories coming here with parents, and now I get to bring my kids!

“One of the best things about this park is where it’s located. It’s less than 10 minutes from Weston-super-Mare‘s seafront”.

Entertainment and activities

“This is quite a small site, but it does have a good arcade, restaurant, and entertainment performances.

“There’s no costume characters for the kids, but if you visit in peak season, there’s a pretty packed activity schedule that keeps them busy.

“It’s a very relaxing site if you prefer a peaceful holiday. There’s a beautiful lake to walk around, and you can pop out into Weston whenever you’d like”.

Accommodation

“We stayed in a large Gold caravan, which doesn’t work out to be too expensive once you split the cost between a group of people.

“We paid £650 total, and the Gold caravans can sleep up to six people, so that works out at around £109pp – which isn’t bad at all for a full seven days during the summer holidays.

“We had wrap-around decking which is lovely to sit on and enjoy your coffee in the morning or a drink in the evening.

“I recommend going as a large group and splitting costs so you can try out the nicer accommodation. This is one of the parks where I’d say it’s worth it”.

Local area

“The surrounding area, Bleadon, is very quiet. There’s just a couple of cosy pubs.

“But if you want a proper day out, then you should drive or catch the bus into Weston-super-Mare itself.

“There’s loads of things to do in Weston. If you want to stick to free things to do, Weston Museum is a great one and has activities for kids.

“Visiting the Grand Pier is a full day out itself – there is a small charge of £2, which is the same for both adults and kids.

“There’s lots of cost-friendly places to eat on the pier, like chip shops, a Costa and a Tiffany’s.

“My favourite though is Revo Kitchen. It’s inside the old Sea Life centre and it has 360-degree views of the sea. It’s dog-friendly, and does amazing, family-friendly food.

“It’s easy to spend the whole day at just the pier. There’s a ball pit, arcade games, fun house, ghost train – loads to do.

“Obviously it can be costly, but there are great-value wristbands available for kids to go on unlimited rides.”

“The Little Kids wristband, with unlimited rides suitable for younger children, costs £15 and lasts all day. The Big Kids wristband costs £20.

“There is also an Ultimate wristband available for £30, which includes unlimited rounds of golf and go-kart races.

“You don’t have to pay the entry fee cost of £2 for those with wristbands. You can buy the wristbands for the Grand Pier ahead of time online“.

Bag a cheap stay

You can book a three-night stay at Riverside Holiday Village in a Purn Gold WF caravan from £169, based on two adults sharing. This deal also offers a low deposit option of £25.

3. Martin Mere Holiday Village, Blackpool

“This park is around 10 minutes’ drive into Blackpool, and there is so much to do there for families.

“They have also just had a major upgrade, with a brand-new restaurant, a refreshed Show Bar, and an expanded arcade added”.

Entertainment and activities

“It’s all about the entertainment with Haven. And the best part is that most of it is free.

“There’s an outdoor pool and lazy river, and you can book inflatables for your little ones to use.

“They’ve got plenty of fun things for families with kids like a climbing wall and a giant football dartboard.

“You’ve also got Linked Bingo at 5:15pm every evening, which sometimes has massive cash prizes.

“They’re also adding four new kids shows ready for summer this year”.

Accommodation

“The caravans are spacious, clean and have everything you need. Even the saver caravans are tremendous value for what you get.

“What I like about the accommodation here is that most caravans are only a short walk to the entertainment, which is great if you stay up late”.

Local area

“There is absolutely loads to do in Blackpool. You can even see the tower flashing its lights at night from the park.

“Blackpool can be as cheap or expensive as you like, but I’ve been going for years and found some good ways to save money.

“One of the best-value places to go is Coral Island Arcade, which has a restaurant where kids eat free.

“Once you’re at Coral Island, make sure to pick up any free leaflets that are there. They often have vouchers inside for discounted attractions.

“We picked one up and got a free go on the camel derby – so always look out for leaflets before you book something!

“Some of my other favourite things to do are going up into the tower, where there’s an arcade, the dungeons and a circus inside the tower itself.

“Then of course you’ve got Pleasure Beach – but if you know you want to go, book ahead of time online.

“That way you can pay £30 for entry rather than £60 on the day.

“If you’re wanting to save money on ticking off the paid attractions, there’s a new card where you can do them all for a fixed price called The Blackpool Pass.”

“The Blackpool Pass starts from £35 and includes unlimited entry to eight Blackpool attractions: Madame Tussauds, SEA LIFE, Blackpool Tower Ballroom, Blackpool Tower Eye, Blackpool Tower Dungeon, Blackpool Tower Circus, Gruffalo and Friends Clubhouse and Peter Rabbit: Explore and Play.

“You can expect to save up to 70 per cent on attractions compared to booking individually.”

Bag a cheap stay

You can book a four-night stay in a saver caravan with a Haven Hideaways deal from £49, based on two adults sharing.

This deal also comes with a low-deposit option of £30.

2. Lyons Robin Hood, Rhyl, North Wales

“This site is really up-to-date. It’s recently undergone a £1.5m makeover, with all the new developments set to be fully done in May 2026, ready for your summer holiday!

“Some of my favourite things about this park are the enthusiastic entertainment staff, as well as the food – I always really look forward to the food when holidaying here!”

Entertainment and activities

“The pool here is so good that my youngest went swimming every single day. It has a brand-new splash zone, three super slides and even a spa for the adults.

“It’s just had activities like go-karting added to the list of things to do, and there’s new sports courts and trampolines.

“I last went at Halloween and it was just absolutely fantastic, but the entertainment is great year-round too.

“The costume characters come out to meet the kids – all the info on who is coming out when is listed on the wall, so you can meet the characters, comedians and singers.”

Accommodation

“The standard caravans here are slightly different to other holiday parks, for example like at a Haven resort.

“Their highest-ranking option is a platinum. We’ve stayed in platinum and it’s lovely. We had a little bit of a balcony that we had our coffee and drinks on.

“I’ve stayed in three levels of accommodation here, and I liked all of them. Each caravan was clean and spacious, with multiple big bedrooms, so you can’t go wrong here no matter what your budget is.

“I usually like to bring my own food to save money, however the food here is just lovely and definitely worth the money!

“We had cod and chips (£6.95) from the on-site chip shop here and really enjoyed it – in fact, we had it twice because it was that good! Food here is also really good value for money”.

Local area

“There’s a beautiful beach just across the road from the park, just remember to bring some snacks, as there’s no cafe or shop to buy food.

“You might see seals here – we saw some on my last visit and I was so excited.

“You can see them bobbing around in the sea, it’s nice to see them out in the open compared to an aquarium.

“Rhyl is just 5 minutes away, and there’s loads to do there. Shops, a massive marine lake, and my favourite – a little train that takes you around.

“Lots of people go crabbing, too…we caught some massive ones!

“A trip into Rhyl could be a free day out if you planned for it. Pack a picnic, wander through its streets, plus there’s even a free attraction: Rhyl Museum and Arts Centre.

“The only thing you would have to pay extra for if you wanted to would be the train, which costs £4 per adult and £3 per child.”

Bag a cheap stay

You can book a three-night stay at Lyons Robin Hood in a Bronze three-bedroom caravan from £111.30, based on two adults sharing.

Lyons Robin Hood is also available at Sun Hols from £9.50, where a break for four people can cost as little as £38.

1. Lower Hyde, Isle of Wight

“The best holiday park I’ve ever been to is Lower Hyde on the Isle of Wight – that is my firm favourite.

“I’ve returned several times because my family and I really liked it. I like everything about the park.

“There’s loads to do on site itself, it’s actually one of the only sites where we didn’t mind spending the entire day there.

“There’s plenty of nature trails around the park, and there’s also an adventure park on site.

“Lower Hyde also have a restaurant with really good pub-style food called The Barnhouse, plus they also have little food huts such as the Thunderbird Chicken shack and an ice cream parlour.

“They’ve just had a new outdoor bar open up, too.”

Entertainment and activities

“The entertainment teams are top-quality at Lower Hyde and plenty is free compared to other parks.

“I like the archery in the daytime, plus there’s a great pool to make use of, too.

“I watched some brilliant entertainment there last year.

“In the evenings, the entertainment starts off with discos and character meet and greets for the younger kids, with their own show.

“Then there’s some great bingo, followed by an adult game show.

“Later in the evening there’s more acts from visiting acts such as comedians or magicians, or a performance from the entertainment team.

“There’s then a disco until midnight, so you can stay there all night, if you fancy it.”

Accommodation

“I’ve stayed in both chalets and caravans, and the caravans are top-notch, very cosy and warm.

“The accommodation is in a really nice quiet area. There is a little bit of a hill walking down, so do let the site know if that’s an issue if you plan to visit”.

Local area

“The must-visit spot nearby is Shanklin. There’s lots of little artisan shops, and it’s not a far walk, about a 10-minute walk into the centre.

“If you walk further, it takes you into Shanklin Old Village. There’s a lovely little restaurant there called The Crab, with beautiful seafood.

“There is also the famous old thatched cottage from all the postcards. Not only is it lovely to look at, but it does afternoon tea inside (from £7.95).

“There’s also Shanklin Chine, a wooded coastal ravine that is the oldest attraction on the island.

“If you wanted to visit, then you can loop right down to the beach afterwards and make your way back up – that’s the perfect day out.

“Some of my favourite things to do in the area are keep an eye out for red squirrels on nature walks, and go stargazing at night – the Isle of Wight has clear skies where you can see the stars”.

Bag a cheap stay

You can book a three-night stay at Parkdean Lower Hyde in a Bronze three-bedroom caravan from £99, based on two adults sharing.

Parkdean Lower Hyde is also available at Sun Hols from £9.50, where a break for four people can cost as little as £38.

How Tracy saves extra on her holidays

As ouur Hols From £9.50 Agony Aunt, Tracy Kennedy has several tips and tricks up her sleeve when it comes to saving money on your staycations.

Here is exactly what Tracy does to prepare ahead of time and save on her holidays, as well as her top tips for saving whilst you’re away.

She told us: “One of the most cost effective things you can do is cook your own meals.

“I’d make a note of some easy, cost-effective meals that are quick to make so you can get it done and get out and enjoy your holiday.

“I like to pack an essentials box of non-perishable food bits with me, like packets of rice, pasta, and tinned food – just make sure you don’t forget to bring a tin opener, too.

“I also bring a small amount of washing up liquid and cleaning products in little travel bottles so we don’t have to buy full-sized ones. This really helps with the shopping, especially if you’re on a budget.

“Then when you do go shopping, all you have to do is buy the fresh stuff like bread, milk and butter.

“I like to slowly buy bits to add to my box in the months before my holiday, as it spreads the cost out and saves you spending too much in the expensive on-site supermarkets when you arrive.

“Once you’re prepared with food and cleaning supplies, it’s time to start thinking ahead on how to save on attractions.

“Before I go anywhere, I make sure to Google everything there is to do nearby. Especially for days out. See if there are any two for one ticket offers at local attractions, or even places that are free to visit.

“Especially during holidays like Easter, as nearby attractions will often have free events for kids like Easter egg hunts.

“When I visited Prestatyn in North Wales, I did my research ahead of time and found free pottery classes for kids, so we spent an afternoon doing that.

“Also check the National Trust website as well as English Heritage, because sometimes they offer free days out, too. Also check Sun Superdays and Sun Club offers, too!

“If you’re staying at a seaside resort, you can easily spend an entire day out on the coast for free. Check which dates you are there have good weather, and plan to pack a picnic, walk along the promenade, go for a swim.

“Sometimes there will be free children’s Punch and Judy shows, or local festivals – always Google the area and search on local Facebook groups in case there are events whilst you’re there.

“If you’re going as a couple or friends, it can be nice to explore local towns with cheap public transport.

My friend and I visited Lyons Robin Hood last year, and planned to go to Llandudno.

“We bought a £6.50 day saver ticket, jumped on a bus with Llandudno as the final stop and sat on the top deck at the front, and the views we had were absolutely amazing.”

“You can get family saver tickets too if there are more of you, then you can go out for the day, get a great view of the local towns and all you have to buy is the bus ticket. It’s a nice, cheap day out for all of the family.

“Similarly, I planned a cheap day out at the coast a few years ago in Newquay, Cornwall.

“We visited all the local beaches, walked to Lands End, and I planned a walk past the hotel where the Roald Dahl film The Witches was made.

“We also drove out to Port Isaac, and walked around where Doc Martin was filmed. All you have to do in these places is pay for is parking and bring your own food.

Then you can just walk around and see all of these really cool filming locations, and that costs you nothing!

“Definitely research the area before you go to see if any movies or TV shows were filmed there”.

The pastel tones of Vichy in the Auvergne

Vichy is not on everyone’s radar as a must visit French town, but it really is a delight to spend a few days in. I discovered it while on a bicycle trip around central France, and its famous waters did wonders for my tired legs and muscles. Vichy is a historic spa town famous for its spring waters and its art nouveau and belle époque architecture. A thriving cultural scene means that, whenever you visit, you’ll find concerts, theatre, opera and exhibitions, especially at the town’s opera house and the iconic Grand Casino. Vichy is also a shopper’s paradise, with more than 500 boutique shops in the heart of the town. When all that shopping and walking has worked up a thirst, taste the famous Vichy waters for free at Hall des Sources (listed on the Accidentally Wes Anderson website). The city is easy to explore on foot or by bike, with riverside paths along the Allier River, pretty neighbourhoods with pastel-coloured villas, and plenty of outdoor cafes. Being there felt like witnessing a Renoir or Matisse painting coming to life before my eyes.
Nicoletta

Canals, lakes and flowers in Savoie

Chanaz on the north-western edge of the Savoie is a picturesque village I love to visit in summer. One the best little trips is to rent a canoe or electric boat and glide along the Canal de Savières to the Lac du Bourget. The village boasts colourful flowers, old narrow streets, cycling lanes, and some of the best ice-cream I’ve ever tasted. There are plenty of affordable accommodation options around the Lac du Bourget, and many more villages to explore in the area.
Juliette B

The ‘most beautiful kilometre in France’ is in Normandy

Avoid the crowds and see the wonder of Mont-Saint-Michel from another angle, the Falaises de Champeaux (Champeaux Cliffs), with a view much admired by General Dwight Eisenhower in the second world war after he had set up an allied HQ in nearby Jullouville. The half-hour car journey from Granville to medieval Genêts takes you through the old-fashioned and unspoilt seaside village resorts, cafes and restaurants of Saint-Pair-sur-Mer, Jullouville, Carolles, and before you reach the delightful village of Saint-Jean-le-Thomas, you can take in the panoramas of the “most beautiful kilometre in France”.
Dee

Modernism and glass in Provence

The Fernand Léger National Museum in Biot, near Antibes, is one of our favourite places to spend an afternoon. The temporary and permanent displays of Léger’s modernist works are interesting, but it’s the stunning exterior and calm surrounding grounds that are really special. To make the most of your time, La Verrerie de Biot is a two-minute drive away. Here you can watch free glass-blowing demonstrations and browse the glass creations in the shop.
Rowan De Saulles

Walking in the shadow of Robert Louis Stevenson, Massif Central

Last August I walked the southern half of the Chemin de Stevenson (designated the GR 70) – a 140-mile footpath in the Cévennes that follows the route taken by Robert Louis Stevenson in 1878 with his recalcitrant donkey, Modestine. I averaged 15 miles daily, hiking along rocky trails and woodland paths. Accommodation comprised basic hostels, each about €50 a night; one had lodged RLS 147 years previously. I ate dinner at local bistros; breakfast came from boulangeries. I met a few fellow hikers but was mostly accompanied only by the words from Stevenson’s account, Travels with a Donkey, as I tried to match his footsteps to my own. The full route crosses four departments: Haute-Loire, Ardèche, Lozère and Gard.
Jane

Leonardo’s resting place on the Loire

Amboise, a delightful small town on the Loire, boasts three chateaux. The most imposing is the Château Royal d’Amboise, home to Francis I, who lent a spare chateau, the Clos Lucé, to Leonardo da Vinci for the last three years of his life (1516–19). It is the Clos Lucé that delights the most, with its full-sized mock-ups of Leonardo’s designs dotted around the park, while models of other inventions are displayed in the cellars. Leonardo’s bedroom, kitchen and atelier are all reproduced in their original rooms. Leonardo’s last resting place is a dedicated chapel in the Château Royal – the Chapel of Saint-Hubert. The third chateau, Gaillard, is renowned for its Renaissance landscape architecture and gardens.
Pete Mitchell

Cycling between Normandy pools

I took my vintage Raleigh Chopper on the night ferry from Newhaven to Dieppe and cycled the Normandy coast with essentials packed in a small bag. I stopped at Honfleur, Deauville, Caen and Mont-Saint-Michel and enjoyed swims in Trouville’s art deco lido, Deauville’s beautiful seawater Olympic pool, the tidal sea pools at Saint-Pair-sur-Mer and Granville. The superb Les Bains de Dieppe has sadly had to permanently close since my visit because of structural problems. I used trains when the weather was bad and to get back to Dieppe.
Victorie

Provence in the frame

Base yourself in Arles during the long summer for Les Rencontres d’Arles (6 July-4 October), when cutting-edge photography fills an eclectic mix of venues: romanesque churches, cloisters, the town hall, shady parks and even a Monoprix warehouse, all within easy walking distance. There’s accommodation to suit all budgets, including many in old Arlésienne homes. Between exhibitions, trace Van Gogh at the Starry Night Café and along the canal towards the Bridge at Arles, or climb the Roman arena for wide Provençal views. In September Camargue rice festival with its tractor-pulled floats, music and rice flung like panto sweets is also great fun to visit.
Stephen Edwards

A dash of Tuscany in Pays de la Loire

I caught my first glimpse of Clisson while visiting nearby Gétigné. There is simply no mistaking you are south of the Loire here. It’s a delightfully surprising town in the muscadet wine region with a distinctly Mediterranean feel where terracotta roofs and ochre tones abound. On a hot summer’s day, be transported from Loire-Atlantique to Tuscany thanks to the Italianate-style architecture and sweeping views from the castle towards Domaine de la Garenne Lemot. Umbrella pines serve to accentuate the town’s characteristic ambience and tucked away on a charming sidestreet is one truly remarkable leaning specimen.
Richard Arnott

Winning tip: Canoeing in Nouvelle-Aquitaine

Corrèze, a rural department in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine, has lakes, gorges, sleepy farming hamlets and furry brown cows. It is a peaceful place even in the middle of August. We followed a switchback road to Smile Kayak, rented canoes, stuffed waterproof barrels with baguettes, beers and cheeses, and were delighted to find we had the gorge to ourselves. We paddled along the river where the Dordogne and Diège converge, watching red kites wheeling overhead and shattering the silence by shouting for echoes.
Cath Fischl

THE Easter weekend is nearly here and whether or not you have kids, you are probably wanting to make the most of the four-day weekend.

Whether you want to escape crowds of families or just discover something new away from your hometown, the Sun Travel team has recommendations for every generation and every type of person.

Gen Z

Gen Z Travel Reporter, Jenna Stevens is used to jet-setting off around Europe and further afield, but when it comes to doing things in the UK for Easter, her first recommendation is to head to Norwich.

She said: “The artsy city of Norwich in Norfolk was just voted the best place to live in the UK, and in my opinion, it’s one of the best spots for a city break, too.

“This city moves at a slower pace, split up by the River Wensum’s scenic canals, gardens, Tudor buildings and bookshops that give it a quaint feel.

“Norwich is full of easy-going creatives and young people who prefer a chill pint by a waterside pub than a groggy night out clubbing.

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“My top spots are the Red Lion Bishopgate, which juts out over the water, and the Playhouse Bar with a colourful beer garden and affordable pints.”

And instead of just heading shopping, Jenna recommends strolling the city’s cobbled streets to “dip into vintage shops and grab a new jacket or pair of shoes”.

She added: “Visiting during Easter means flowers at the Plantation Garden will be in full bloom, plus it’s the perfect time for literature and history walks (yes – that’s what Gen-Z are into nowadays).”

Alternatively, Jenna recommends heading to Cornwall for a dip in the sea.

She said: “Cornwall really is a crowd-pleaser UK destination for all ages.

“My dad loves a coastal walk and a pint of local ale in a pub steeped in history, whilst I seek out cider and beer festivals and the best beaches for watersports.

“One of my top Easter holiday activities would be to have a go at surfing.

“April is the prime time to shake off the cold and make use of the increasingly sunny days to grab a wetsuit and head out into the water.

“Newquay is the surf capital of the UK, so there’s no better place to try it – whether it’s your first time or your fiftieth.

“Fistral beach has prime waves that reach 6-8ft, but don’t worry if you’re a beginner like me; there’s plenty of classes for first-timers.

“Escape Surf School have been teaching beginner classes for over 20 years, and they start at £43pp for a group lesson.

“There’s also Hibiscus Surf School, which was Europe’s first women-only school, where sessions start at £35pp.”

Millennial

Having travelled to more than 50 countries, Deputy Travel Editor Kara Godfrey has had her fair share of memorable travel experiences.

But when it comes to Easter, the UK holds some real gems for her.

She said: “Living in Kent, I love the trail along the White Cliffs of Dover, which if you can brave the blustering winds, has some of the most beautiful views in the UK.

“The circular National Trust route is just over three miles, so you can easily do it in less than two hours.

“Then end with a cuppa and cake at Mrs Knotts Tearoom or grab a pint at The Coastguard Pub which has a great pub garden at the front.”

But coastal country walks aren’t for everyone, so if you prefer something a bit more bustling, Kara suggests to head to Manchester.

She said: “Manchester is one of my favourite cities – and one you will always have a good time at.

“And by this, I mean embracing your inner child with a day of games and experiences.

“Start at Chaos Karts, an indoor race track (£30pp) where you can pretend you are in Mario Kart, before grabbing some Barbie-esque skates to whizz around Archie’s Atomic (£8.50).

“End the evening at NQ64, a gaming bar with all the old classic machines and some very fun themed cocktails, before a stint at K2, a karaoke bar open until 4am (£10pp).

“Followed by some chips and gravy of course…”

Families

Having a seven-year-old son, Head of Travel (Digital) Caroline McGuire knows exactly what makes a good family day out.

Having tried and tested tons of spots across the UK, Caroline recommends dropping by The Outernet in central London.

She said: “When it comes to free attractions, few are as popular in my house as The Outernet next to London’s Tottenham Court Road station.

“Now, my son and I will make a 25-minute detour to spend even 20
minutes there, whenever we’re in central London.

“The huge, multi-screened space screens artist-made short films
throughout the day, and you can walk in from the street and spend as
little or as much time there as you want.

“With screens covering the sides and ceiling, you really do feel like
you are inside the films.

“Yes, you wouldn’t spend the whole day there, but the British Museum is
a short walk away, as is the walled playground Coram’s Fields.”

But if you are looking for a getaway and don’t want to head into the city, Caroline suggests booking into Haven Hopton Holiday Park in Norfolk.

She said: “[It] is routinely named the best Haven site in the country by visitors, with 4/5 star rating on TripAdvisor.

“It was the first holiday park I ever went to, and it still ranks as my No.1.

“The park has direct access to a lovely sandy beach, which is one of its more best-loved features, but it also has stacks of indoor activities in case the weather forgets to play ball.

“There are two indoor pools, arcades, a climbing wall and a good-sized soft play, as well as some excellent evening entertainment.

“If you fancy going off-site, then it is a short drive away from Pettitts Animal Adventure Park, Pleasurewood Hills Theme Park and the Norfolk Broads.”

Or if you are just looking for a day full of fun, head to Paultons Theme Park in Hampshire.

Caroline said: “With a child under eight, Paultons Theme Park is easily my favourite theme park in the UK.

“Specifically because nearly all of the rides have been designed for younger children – so he can go on everything.

“It is best-known for Peppa Pig World, but there is so much more to the park than that.

“With several different lands, including a £12million new Viking land opening in May this year.

“At last year’s UK Theme Park awards, Paultons bagged ten gongs
including the coveted Theme Park Of The Year.

“I’d have to agree with that gong, thanks to many key factors.

“Incredibly short queues for rides, incredible customer service (employees all cheerful), the cleanliness (bathrooms spotless), and the attention to detail.

“For example, the fact that they don’t charge for parking, unlike
several other big theme parks, and that they have leaflets at the
entrance telling you all of the events that are on that day.

“It’s a family-run business and that really shows.”

Empty Nest

Head of Travel at The Sun, Lisa Minot, is an expert in all things travel having been travelling both the UK and the world for decades.

And when it comes to spend Easter in the UK, she recommends “enjoying the mellow sounds of jazz from a floating platform in London’s St Katharine’s Dock while sipping a free glass of English sparkling wine“.

She said: “Sessions on Saturday evening of the Easter weekend (April 4) catch the golden hour when the yacht lights twinkle across the Marina and Sunday afternoon will be a relaxed affair with performances Olivia Swann, Jamie Safir and Flo Moore.

“Tickets are from £27.50 and include a glass of fizz and light bites, as well as blankets to snuggle under if the weather turns.”

Alternatively, Lisa suggests “making the most of the spring delights of Herefordshire with their new Roasts and Rambles guide that teams up great walks with excellent country pubs along the route”.

She added: “There are more than 60 curated trails to choose from that can see you discover everything from wild mountain ponies to romantic castle ruins, ancient caves and tranquil rivers – all with cosy country pubs along the way for a well-earned pint and classic pub grub.”

For more ideas on what to do this Easter, here are the best UK family days out from £10 to completely free this the Easter holidays.

Plus, 10 of the most affordable English seaside towns for Easter holidays with £1 rides, £2 pints and mega cheap hotels.

OUR Queen of the £9.50 Holiday is back to answer your burning questions – ahead of the launch of THOUSANDS more cheap breaks going on sale.

This time, she’s giving her tips for holidaying with teenagers, top things to do, and how to go away for cheap during the school holidays.

Tracy Kennedy is an expert on Hols from £9.50, having taken Sun holidays for the past 30 years.

This week, Sun reader Julie Dale has been awarded best question of the week, which means she’s been selected to win a £100 Amazon voucher. Congratulations, Julie!

Hols from £9.50 are set to be restocked this Tuesday, with thousands of new holidays AND new holiday parks – and you can get priority access with Sun Club.

If you fancy signing up to Sun Club to access the £9.50 Hols deals early, head to thesun.co.uk/club and join for £1.99 a month or £12 for a year.

Read more on £9.50 holidays

PARK UP

10 of our fave £9.50 holiday parks in the UK – with MORE breaks added from today

PARK UP

£9.50 Holiday expert picks best parks for entertainment and top beach resorts

Once you’re a member, go to the Sun Club Offers hub and find the Hols From £9.50 page.

Follow the link from the offers page, and you can book your break from midnight on Tuesday, March 31.

What are some great UK parks that can even keep teenagers entertained?

Glenn Jones

Going away with teenagers, you’ll want something with plenty of activities to keep them entertained.

I’d say Billing Aquadrome is perfect for families of all ages, there’s especially loads to do for the older kids, too.

There’s outside entertainment in the evenings, and they have outdoor cinema screenings.

There’s also a giant inflatable course on the water that teens love to jump off to burn off some energy, and pool and snooker tables to hang out around.

Plus you can take the younger ones to the ball pit or slime making when the teenagers are busy exploring.

Seal Bay is another great choice, there’s loads there for the older teenagers.

They’ve got a really cool machine called a Wave Rider, which is like a surf simulator. It looks like a big bouncy slide with water gushing down it, very good for teenagers!

But if your teenagers are anything like mine, they won’t always want loads of sporty things to do.

My teenage daughter has had enough of arcades these days, she really likes going out on walks and exploring – she’s getting a bit like me now!

We love visiting castles and cathedrals, Hastings is great for that.

Teenagers do like dining out, though! So make sure to research the food options.

Parkdean have a good selection of foods, like Papa John’s pizza and fried chicken shacks.

And Seal Bay has a lovely outdoor seating area where you can have Greek gyros, burritos and ice cream. Teenagers love takeaways!

Would you opt for a £9.50 holiday over booking through the company direct?

Jamie Tebboth

You are often going to get your holiday for a cheaper price booking through £9.50 holidays.

Especially if you’re visiting as a family of four, as you can get a family holiday for only £38.

Looking at direct company sites on the same dates, it can be almost twice the price.

If you book through £9.50 holidays, that same holiday can be miles cheaper – even if you add on entertainment passes.

I always check on the actual company website to see how much I’m saving. I’ve saved £51 on a stay at Unity Beach, £112 at Solway and £211 on a trip to Bognor Regis.

For a family of four, the cheapest break you can get is a £38 holiday out of season (£9.50 each). If you add passes on, for say £10 a person, that’s still under £100!

My stay at Riverside in Bognor Regis and Parkdean Ty Mawr were both only £38. We’re not bothered about the extra entertainment passes, and its free linen there as well. If you’re not fussed in adding on the extras, it’s not going to get cheaper than that.

What are your top tips to get the best deals in the school holidays?

Julie Dale

The Midnight Service – be online as soon as that code comes! Just make sure you’ve joined Sun Club to get instant access after midnight. They go like wildfire!

There’s going to be new availability with this holiday restock, so if you haven’t booked yet, you can still get a holiday this year booked.

It can also definitely be cheaper to go away during school holidays and half term breaks that aren’t in the six-week summer holiday.

I’ve been away in the October holidays and it was much cheaper than the prices in the hotter months.

And if you want a really good deal, you should check if the school half term dates are different in the places you want to go to.

Quite a few people I know plan their holidays around the kids breaking up earlier in the destination they want to go to.

You then get a holiday that’s technically in the school holidays, for a really cheap price. I know someone who got a holiday for £14.50 per person during her children’s half term dates, and she had a great time.

What is a town in the UK you think that everybody should visit?

Elisabete Fortes

I’d say Glastonbury. It’s more than just the music festival. In fact, they have lots of other mini festivals and events throughout the year. We visited during the Medieval Fayre.

When I first went to Glastonbury, I was wowed. The streets are like a real life Diagon Alley from Harry Potter.

There’s Glastonbury Tor, Chalice Well and loads of other things to do. And Glastonbury has plenty of history, too, with Glastonbury Abbey and the links to King Arthur.

The nearest £9.50 holiday site will be Unity in Brean. It’s actually one of the most popular holiday parks I know of.

It’s got its own fair, a massive swimming pool, indoor and outdoor entertainment, plus a fantastic beach. And it’s close to Brean Down, with nature walks and a historical fort.

Can you pay extra to upgrade your accommodation?

Emma Wright

Yes you can! Sometimes when you book, you can upgrade and choose the grade of your caravan.

The upgrade options tend to have really good amenities. When we stayed at The Lakes in Rookley, we stayed in a three-bedroom cottage with its own back garden and washing line. It was absolutely stunning.

It makes for a really luxurious experience, especially if you’re going as a big group or for a special occassion.

But I’ve never had a bad experience in any of the caravans, even staying in the cheap ones.

THERE’S no better way to make the most of the sun coming out than heading off on a beach holiday.

2026 is shaping up to be a record year for staycations, with Brits keen to stay close to home and explore the coastal gems across the UK.

Plus with thousands more breaks being added to the Hols from £9.50 website, including dates in the spring and summer, its not too late to bag that last-minute holiday.

Hols from £9.50 are set to be restocked this Tuesday, with thousands of new holidays AND new holiday parks – and you can get priority access with Sun Club.

If you fancy signing up to Sun Club to access the £9.50 Hols deals early, head to thesun.co.uk/club and join for £1.99 a month or £12 for a year.

Once you’re a member, go to the Sun Club Offers hub and find the Hols From £9.50 page.

Read more on £9.50 holidays

BEACHFRONT BLISS

Inside the most popular UK holiday park from £9.50 Hols

HOL YES

40 of us take over a £9.50 Holiday park each year – it’s my kids favourite vacation

Follow the link from the offers page, and you can book your break from midnight on Tuesday, March 31.

If you’re looking for some inspiration on where to book, here’s some of our favourite beach resorts across the UK, plus our pick of £9.50 holiday parks nearby…

Combe Martin, Devon

Combe Martin is a small seaside resort in North Devon, home to Combe Martin Bay.

Combe Martin Bay is split into two main beaches: the sandy beach by the harbour, and the stony Newberry beach. Both are beautiful, with calm shallow waters protected by the cove.

As an Access for All beach, Combe Martin Bay is fully accessible. There’s plenty of parking, loos and even beach wheelchairs to rent with easy access down to the shore if needed.

This village also sits on the edge of Exmoor National Park, where wild horses roam the rolling hills and moorland.

Bring your bikes and cycle one of the many paths, go fishing in the rivers, or rent a canoe at Wimbleball Lake.

In the village itself, take your pick of cosy pubs like The Dolphin and The Pack O’Cards – pub culture is very big here, and you’ll be welcomed in to enjoy a local pint.

Stay at a nearby resort with Hols from £9.50 at Combe Martin Beach or Sandaway Beach.

Looe, Cornwall

If you’re looking for a classic Cornish escape, Looe is the ultimate catch.

This traditional fishing town is split into two by a large arched bridge. The east side full of shops and pubs, and the west has a quieter feel with rockpools and beach walks.

Over in East Looe you can walk the Banjo Pier (named after its shape) and laze out on East Looe Beach, the main and largest beach in the area.

Or for somewhere quieter, head towards Hannafore Point in West Looe.

On the way you will come across a small stretch of sand which is also home to Nelson, the bronze seal statue that overlooks the village.

Popular pubs include The Jolly Sailor Inn and The Fishermans Arms, both of which serve local pints and food with a home-cooked feel.

Stay at a nearby holiday park with Hols from £9.50 at Looe Bay, Tencreek Holiday Park, Trelawne Manor, Polperro or Killigarth Manor.

Shanklin, Isle of Wight

Shanklin in the Isle of Wight is popular for its pretty Old Village with thatched roof houses, as well as picturesque beach with dramatic cliffs.

Shanklin Beach sits on the south east coast of the Isle of Wight, and has a bustling seafront with arcades, fish and chip shops and an ice cream parlour.

Here you can have a go at the colourful Caddyshack 18-hole mini golf, which costs £8.50 per adult, £7.50 per child or £30 for a family of four.

The beach is just as colourful as the village behind it, lined with colourful beach huts and blooming flowers.

You can get up to the Old Village from the beach via a giant lift. Here you can wander its famous old-fashioned streets – plus the famous pink thatched-roof cottage which you’ll see on postcards.

The pink cottage is a tearoom called the Old Thatch Teashop, where inside you can sit down to traditional afternoon tea or cream tea starting at £7.95. Plus there’s even a fairy garden inside.

Stay at a nearby resort with Hols from £9.50 at Parkdean Resorts Lower Hyde or Parkdean Resorts Landguard.

Tenby, South Wales

Tenby is a walled Welsh seaside town, famous for its rows of pastel-coloured houses and three soft sand beaches.

There’s several beaches to pick from at Tenby, from the two-mile long golden stretch of the South Beach to the smaller Castle Beach, which is popular for watersports.

There’s lots of family attractions here too, like the Folly Farm Adventure Park with its vintage fairground, and go-karting or bumper boating at Heatherton World of Activities.

For something more relaxing, you can wander the historic harbour, which runs regular boat trips to Caldey Island from April through to October.

It’s well worth taking a day trip to the island, where you’ll find forests with red squirrels and the magnificent Caldey Abbey.

Food and drink in Tenby is both budget-friendly and tasty. Tuck into a Neopolitan pie at Top Joe’s Pizza, or listen to live music with sea views at Salty’s Beach Bar and Restaurant.

Stay at a nearby resort with Hols from £9.50 at Moreton Farm, Manorbier Bay or Manorbier Country Park.

Dumfries, Scotland

In south west Scotland, Dumfries is a Scottish seaside town with plenty of activities for kids and fascinating history for grown-ups.

Southerness beach is a vast stretch of sand overlooked by a striking white lighthouse, which is one of the oldest in Scotland.

The shallow waters are ideal for paddling or swimming, and at low tide plenty of rockpools are revealed, which make for fun family explorations.

Another option in Sandyhills Bay, a quiet, sheltered cove surrounded by greenery. The giant rock arch here, called the Needle’s Eye, makes for a great photo spot.

For families, Dumfries is a total playground.

Dalscone Farm Fun (admission £10) and (£12) offer soft play and animal feeding, while the nearby Dino Park (adults £6, kids £12) lets kids hunt for fossils among life-sized dinosaurs.

If you want to take in the history of the town, you can wander down the River Nith past the 15th-century Devorgilla Bridge, or explore the Robert Burns House to see where the famous writer penned his last works.

Stay at a nearby resort with Hols from £9.50 at Lighthouse Leisure or Parkdean Resorts Southerness.

Whitley Bay, North Tyneside

Whitley Bay is a traditional North East seaside town, with an unspoilt Blue Flag beach where you can paddle, swim or surf.

The beach is the star of the show here, and runs from the main promenade north to St Mary’s Lighthouse, which sits on a tiny island.

You can visit the lighthouse by walking across a causeway – just make sure to check the tide times so you don’t get stranded!

For a bit of local history, head into Spanish City. Once a fairground, it’s now a beautiful building full of restaurants and tea rooms.

Inside you can grab try award-winning fish and chips at Trenchers, or enjoy an ice cream looking out over the sea.

Families will love the dinosaur-themed Lost World Adventure Golf, which is £5 per adult and £6 for children. There are also plenty of traditional arcades along the seafront to dip into.

If you like a coastal walk, follow the coastal path south to the trendy coastal village of Tynemouth to see the historic Priory and Castle.

Stay at a nearby resort with Hols from £9.50 at Parkdean Resorts Whitley Bay or Parkdean Resorts Sandy Bay.

Winning tip: puffin-watching in the Inner Hebrides, Scotland

Last April, I based myself in Oban and took my teenagers puffin-watching at Lunga, off Mull, in the Treshnish Isles, with an organised tour (Staffa Tours) by ferry and foot. It was a real delight. The guides were brilliant and helpful, especially with my mobility issues, and we were surprised and amazed at how tame and friendly the puffins were – allowing us to get great views of their faces from as near as 5ft or so. Next spring, we are going again as this is the best time to see them arriving in their thousands.
April

Stunning architecture in the heart of Surrey

Grade I-listed Claremont Landscape Garden near Esher is great to visit in spring. But time your trip there right and you can also visit a National Trust gem just half a mile away: the Homewood, architect Patrick Gwynne’s 1930s modernist villa and accompanying woodland garden (for pre-booked guided tours only on specific Fridays and Saturdays, April-October). The house itself is stunning, with light pouring through the sitting room’s floor to ceiling windows, but on a sunny spring day the garden, complete with rhododendron tunnel, bamboo thicket, water gardens and stepping stones, proves a tranquil spot in which to linger and view the Le Corbusier-inspired abode.
David M

Sheffield’s Tudor turret

One of our favourite days out as a family in spring is to explore the beautiful Sheffield Manor Lodge. There is a wealth of history to explore in the Turret – my young daughter loves telling everyone who’ll listen that Mary, Queen of Scots was detained here. There are also children’s trails, outdoor games and craft sessions – we’ve made stained glass kites, learned about a frog’s life cycle, had Easter egg hunts and completed outdoor yoga trails. On a warm spring afternoon, it is a stunning place – with a lavender maze, apothecary gardens, wildflower meadows and the amazing rhubarb shed cafe.
Susan

Artistic treasure hunt on the North York Moors

This magical mystery tour combines fresh air, beautiful, wild landscapes and art. The project is called Hanging Stones by Andy Goldsworthy, and it’s set in Rosedale. Several buildings that were in varying states of disrepair have been rebuilt as artworks and are connected by a six-mile walk encompassing Northdale, near Rosedale Abbey. You have to book a slot to find out where the key is, which you will pick up, together with a map, to get started. It’s the treasure hunt style that will get even the youngest in the group excited about the walk, allowing the adults to do something they wouldn’t otherwise dream of doing with children: admiring art and going for a decent walk. The cost is £10 per adult, while students and under-18s go free.
Annelore

Dazzling azaleas in Gloucestershire

I always take my family to Westonbirt Arboretum near Tetbury in spring to celebrate the beautiful spectacle of nature exploding into a kaleidoscope of colour and life. The Arboretum is a breathtaking place, especially under a sunny sky. The well-marked paths mean you can easily wander through its 245 hectares (600 acres) and enjoy the fresh air filled with the delicate scent of blooming cherry blossoms. With more than 15,000 specimens and 2,500 species of trees and shrubs from across the globe, it serves as a stunningly beautiful living gallery. In spring, the arboretum dazzles with azaleas and rhododendrons bursting into brilliant shades of white, red and pink. My teenagers especially enjoy exploring the treetop walkway and quiet woodland trails – and a treat of tea and cake at the well-positioned cafe at the end of it all.
Nicoletta

Wild garlic and lily ponds in Pembrokeshire

For a springtime lift, head to Bosherston Lakes set in three limestone valleys with spectacular displays of lilies. Start in ancient woodlands, where there’s a shimmering, scented carpet of white wild garlic. It feels like a fairytale. Emerge at the serene lily ponds, where you might spot an otter or a heron, then follow the path to Broad Haven South. The moment you hit the dunes and see the beach open up is one of the finest coastal views in the UK. Finish with tea and cake at the nearby Stackpole Walled Gardens; it’s run by Mencap, so your pit stop supports a fantastic cause while you soak up the Pembrokeshire sunshine.
Lucy Coast

Kites fluttering in the Chiltern skies

My favourite UK spring activity is flying kites with my family in the Dunstable Downs. The open hills and steady breeze make it the perfect spot to let our kites dance in the sky. There’s something really joyful about watching the colours flutter along with other kite-flyers. After some fun, we spread out a picnic blanket and enjoy homemade treats while soaking up the sunshine and taking in the beautiful views. It’s such a simple but special way to spend a bright spring day together outdoors.
Victoria

A memorable walk in the Cotswolds

The circular walk from Bourton-on-the Water to the Upper and Lower Slaughters provides a buffet of springtime goodness, from trees in blossom and daffodils to wildflowers and nesting swans. Oh, and don’t worry, the Slaughters aren’t as morbid as they sound. They take their name from the Old English word slohtre, meaning “muddy place”, suggesting suitable footwear is needed. While Bourton-on-the-Water remains a tourist hotspot – the perfect example of an idyllic Cotswolds village – the walk towards the Slaughters via the Windrush Way and the Gloucestershire Way makes for a calming amble soundtracked by rivers and birdsong.
Maxine Harris

Luscious blooms and afternoon tea in Devon

Each spring, my family makes a pilgrimage to Killerton gardens in south Devon to see the glory of magnolia blossom on the south-facing slopes of Dolbury Hill, known locally as the Clump. The luscious blooms of pinks and ivory are the main attraction. It’s wonderful to see the children enjoy the release of running on the first-cut lawn and to watch their grandparents taking in the sight of the sea of daffodils. After a wet winter of grey skies, it’s also wonderful to have tea outside the house, basking in the sunshine.
Simonetta Taylor

A Northumberland beach stroll

Can anything beat standing on a beach getting a lungful of fresh sea air? I don’t care if I’m still having to wrap up in layers with a woolly hat, being on a beach feels like the start of summer. Beadnell beach in Northumberland is a great place for a leisurely wander, with cracking views and lots of dog-friendly places to refuel in the village. The breakfasts at the Courtyard Cafe have fuelled many a walk along the beach.
Hannah S

HAVE you ever wanted to live out your favourite movie? Well, there actually is an attraction in the UK that lets you do this.

Secret Cinema is known for hosting immersive movie experiences in the UK’s capital.

Previous venues have included Battersea Park, Alexandra Palace and London Fields with shows including Grease, Stranger Things, Casino Royale, Guardians of the Galaxy, Dirty Dancing and even Bridgerton.

And now, Secret Cinema plans to create a permanent venue in Greenwich.

The purpose-built venue in North Greenwich, if approved, would open by the end of the year.

And the venue would be close to other popular destinations in Greenwich such as The O2 and the Troubadour Theatre, due to open in late 2026.

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Merritt Baer, Artistic Director & Producer of Secret Cinema said: “Greenwich Peninsula is the perfect location for Secret Cinema’s long-term flagship home.

“We are committed to bringing world-class immersive experiences to London audiences and are thrilled to work with local businesses and partners to make this happen…

“We are looking forward to breaking ground on this venue and continuing to bring entertainment’s most loved stories to life.”

Secret Cinema hopes that Greenwich will become its permanent home “for up to 10 years”.

In addition to the potential permanent site, Secret Cinema has also announced that it is bringing back last year’s hit, Grease: The Immersive Movie Musical.

The experience will return to Battersea Park from July 22 to September 13.

Travel reporter Cyann Fielding visited last year’s Grease experience and said: “Secret Cinema’s Grease: The Immersive Movie Musical had immediately transported me out of London in 2025 and landed me in the world of Sandy and Danny in the 1950s.

“It felt like a time machine had dropped me into the world of Sandy and Danny, more than 65 years in the past.

“Guests can purchase carnival tokens, just like at a real fair, to enjoy the attractions at the experience.

“There was a Ferris wheel, flying chairs, hook-a-duck and even the iconic fun house from Sandy’s unforgettable transformation scene.

“Inside, the school’s gymnasium dominated the room, serving as the central stage for the night’s performance.

“Around the edges, themed bars and seating areas were scattered – each also playing a role in the experience.

“Rows of vintage cars had been converted into tables, the auto shop was slick with oil and the bleachers were ready for Patty Simcox to screech about school spirit.

“The experience kicks off with the film itself, but as key scenes played out, actors took to the stage to bring them to life, all before cutting back to the movie.

“My only criticism would be that at times it felt a little overwhelming to the senses – I found myself on occasions unsure where to look or what to listen to as the sound from the film, orchestra and actors sometimes battle against each other.

“Yet, the entire time my feet tapped and I couldn’t help but sing along.

“Both the dancing and singing throughout the experience was breathtakingly flawless.”

Unlike the usual West End shows in London, the Secret Cinema experience allows guests to stand and move around freely.

As you move around, so do the actors and they interact with you too, chatting while in full character.

Cyann added: “One student dropped by our table to rant about being ‘left out of Frenchy’s sleepover’ – dragging us directly into the drama.

“For the finale, the audience was led back outside to the carnival.

“Sandy’s final transformation scene with song ‘You’re the One That I Want’ really did bring the house down complete with leather trousers and Shake Shack.”

In other attraction news, a free London attraction has been named the UK’s most popular for first time, so our experts have shared all of their faves that also cost nothing.

Plus, a historic tourist attraction with 250k visitors a year could start charging an entry fee for first time.

Winning tip: Whitebeams and roe deer in Bristol

I always take friends on an afternoon walk when they visit Bristol, to experience the swift changes in scenery: starting at the tobacco warehouses of Cumberland Basin before ascending from the muddy banks of the River Avon up into Leigh Woods, a national nature reserve. As well as possible animal sightings like peregrine falcons and roe deer, the woods are an important site for whitebeam trees, with several species only growing here. It’s easy to spend a full afternoon crisscrossing the trails before walking over Brunel’s famous suspension bridge for a well-deserved coffee at the Primrose Café in Clifton village.
Tor Hands

A seal colony on a Cumbrian island

South Walney nature reserve (£3 adults, £1 children) has an end-of-the-world feel. You drive through industrial Barrow-in-Furness to reach a windswept island that’s home to Cumbria’s only seal colony and a multitude of migrating seabirds. Curious seals surface as you gaze across the water towards Piel Castle, which can be reached by foot at low tide. More seals can be observed from the immaculately kept hides, full of hand-drawn illustrations, local history and specimens of skeletons and shells. There is even a livestream seal cam for a closer look.
Rebecca Alper Grant

Dartmoor’s way of the dead

Across Dartmoor’s torn spine, the Lych Way drags its long memory westward. Moor folk once hauled their dead like felled trunks, boots sinking in peat’s cold hunger. Wind gnawed faces raw; streams stitched ice through bone. Wheel ruts scarred earth, a ledger of grief. Farms emptied into distance, toward stone prayers waiting. Ravens watched slow processions darken the moor. Ten miles north, Ted Hughes’s memorial stone listens, weather-drunk, to their passing weight, and silence rooting deeper than time beneath heather, where footsteps fade yet pulse on, buried but breathing in Dartmoor’s black remembering heart that never loosens them.
John Chrimes

A cemetery now full of life in London’s East End

Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park is a truly magical place. Not your typical local nature reserve, and not your typical Victorian-era cemetery, this now deconsecrated space is truly a haven for human and non-human visitors. The site attracts an impressive array of flora and fauna thanks to its carefully “managed wildness”– an essential respite in London’s East End. Wander at your own pace or join the Friends (the charity which has carefully defended and managed the space since the 1990s) for a tour covering topics ranging from foraging and fungi to women’s history and grave symbolism.
LR

Coastal birding and a castle in Dumfries

The Dumfries and Galloway coast is a beautiful but often overlooked gem among Scotland’s natural offerings. Caerlaverock national nature reserve on the Solway Firth is a highlight, with its protected wetlands serving as a seasonal home for thousands of migrating birds, including geese, plovers and waders. It lends the place a year-round charm, even in the cold winter months. And if birdwatching isn’t your thing, you can still enjoy the excellent walks and cycle paths, stunning views and a rare sense of peace. Make sure to check out the nearby Caerlaverock Castle (from £6.50 adults, £3.90 children), with its picturesque setting – and unique triangle shape!
Allan Berry

Historic sailing on the Norfolk Broads

We were holidaying in the Broads national park when my husband told me that my birthday present was a day out on a historic wherry yacht. At the boatyard in Wroxham, an enthusiastic crew showed us round the boat, and within a few minutes we were watching the huge gaff-rigged sail rise up the mast. We sipped our tea, gliding silently past the reeds, and stopped for a guided tour of Bure Marshes national nature reserve. Lunch was a picnic on Salhouse Broad, and a treat was a cornet from the ice-cream boat. A perfect day on the water for £60 each.
Allison Armstrong

London’s hidden wetlands

Not many Londoners know that there is a real treasure of a nature reserve just 20 minutes from the city centre by tube. The Walthamstow Wetlands is a protected area, easily reached via Tottenham Hale railway/tube station. I often spend a day there with a picnic, a bird guidebook, a flask of coffee and a pair of binoculars. Birds come to the site to feed around the 10 areas of open water and marshland. Swifts and little ringed plovers arrive in spring. Much-travelled black-tailed godwits can also be seen and there’s even the chance of spotting a peregrine falcon. Enjoy the circular bird walk, viewing platforms and hiding areas. There are also weekly guided bird walks starting from the tube station from early spring. It’s free to enter and wander around the nature reserve. Trees and wild fauna abound everywhere you go – a brilliant oxygen overload after the traffic fumes of central London.
Joe

Hampshire’s alluring lagoons

I only meant to stop briefly at Titchfield Haven national nature reserve (£6.50 adults, £3.50 children), but it drew me in for the entire afternoon. Tucked between river and sea, it feels a world away from the busier south coast. I wandered slow, winding paths through reed beds and lagoons, pausing in a hide where a sudden flash of electric blue revealed a kingfisher. As the tide shifted, the landscape subtly changed and the light softened across the water. Nothing here shouts for attention, and that’s the magic of it – a place where doing nothing feels completely absorbing.
Diane

Lakeside magic in Eryri (Snowdonia)

Near Trefriw in the Eryri national park, there is a scenic walk around Llyn Crafnant reservoir. You can also walk over to Llyn Geirionydd from Llyn Crafnant to swim in the lake or paddleboard; it can get a little busy in the summer but it still feels like a little bit of a secret spot. For a big hike, you can walk down from here, past Crimpiau mountain, to Capel Curig, taking you from the Conwy valley to the Ogwen valley.
Bethan Patfield

On safari in Kent

The approach to Elmley national nature reserve (£10 adults, free for up to two accompanying children) is thrilling: precious saltmarsh habitat sandwiched between the elegant Isle of Sheppey road bridge and the looming hulk of a paper factory across the Swale estuary. The reserve’s safari-like access drive is surrounded by bubbling curlews, darting hares and patrolling marsh harriers, while lapwings cavort just feet from the car. As well as being the UK’s only privately owned national nature reserve, Elmley is also the only one you can stay overnight, so you can sip a drink outside your cosy hut or yurt while short-eared owls hunt for small mammals and barn owls glide silently past. Watching the wildlife action unfold on your own personal savannah is magical.
Cathy Robinson

WE’RE spoilt for choice when it comes to seaside towns here in England – from retro to cool, there’s something for everyone.

But some of our favourites are the ones that feel like you’re stepping back in time to a different era – less penny slot machines and more stone fishermans’ cottages.

The Sun Travel team reveals our favourite old fashioned seaside spots…

Sandgate, Kent

“Sandgate is often forgotten about as a day trip destination, being just outside of Folkestone with no train station of its own.

“But it’s one of my favourites to visit with far fewer crowds, and has retained its old-worldy feel.

“It doesn’t have attractions, only Sandgate Castle which was built by Henry VIII but is now a private residence. So instead it’s a great spot for relaxing by the beach, as well as an up-and-coming food and drink scene.

GO SEA IT

£9.50 holiday spot with shipwrecks, seals offshore & horseshoe-shaped waterfalls

SIGHT SEA

£9.50 holidaymakers’ favourite Skegness activities… away from the beach

“There’s The Ship Inn overlooking the beach which, on a windy day, is the cosiest spot for a local beer and pie. But the high street itself is just as beautiful, lined with vintage antique stores, coffee shops and bars.

“Start your day with a coffee at Orchard Lane Coffee House, and get tempted by one of their rotating pastry options, or opt for brunch at Loaf just down the road.

“Then go for a long walk on the promenade lining the beach, watching the wind surfers and even canoers (or go for a sea swim yourself in the summer).

“Or if visiting in the evening, John Dory is the best place for some wine tasting with the owners really knowing their stuff.” – Deputy Travel Editor, Kara Godfrey

Brixham, Devon 

“The English Riviera in Devon – formed of the three towns of Paignton, Torquay and Brixham – is a great holiday spot, but Torquay and Paignton can often be busy with tourists.

“If you fancy a quieter spot but still want a taste of the English Riviera, then head to Brixham, which remains today one of the busiest fishing ports in the UK.

“The harbour is great for spotting pretty boats and gazing at the swans. And definitely head to the Breakwater as this is where you are most likely to see the town’s resident seals.

“This is also where you’ll find the main beach, Breakwater Beach, which is a Blue Flag spot.

“If dipping into the sea is too daunting, check out the 53-metre saltwater tidal pool, just a couple of minutes’ walk from the beach.” Travel Reporter, Cyann Fielding

Saltburn-by-the-Sea, North Yorkshire

“This Victorian seaside town on the North Yorkshire coast harks back to a different age with its grand architecture and pier jutting out from the long, sandy beach.

“The arrival of the railway in 1861 saw the picturesque town embrace leisurely pursuits with its pier and promenade still remarkably similar to its earliest days.

“Also still delighting tourists is its cliff tramway, a water-powered funicular that connects the town at the top of the lift to the seafront and pier below.

“With the Valley Gardens and Italian Gardens to stroll through and the Saltburn Miniature Railway to hop aboard, the town offers a delightful throwback to simpler holidays.” – Head of Sun Travel, Lisa Minot

Watergate Bay, Cornwall 

“A little north of the popular surfing shores in Newquay’s city centre, Watergate Bay is a peaceful and rugged two-mile stretch of sand overlooking foaming, choppy waters.

“The swell ensures it remains a preferred bay for surfers, but outside of the busy summer months you’ll find it’s rather quiet, with just a few dog walkers scattered about.

“Views are breathtaking from pretty much every angle, but especially so from the coastal path that flanks it, winding high above sea level along grassy cliffs. 

“Down on shore are craggy caves that kids will be desperate to explore as well as patches of windswept rocks carpeted in mussels that cling to the wet surface.

“A beautiful restaurant, The Beach Hut, overlooks the sands and it’s a great spot for a proper bite to eat, with specials of crab linguine often featuring on its typically Cornish menu.

“For something more casual, WAX serves up pints and burgers in a fuss-free setting.” – Assistant Travel Editor, Sophie Swietochowski

Old Hunstanton, Norfolk

“Old Hunstanton is the quieter, prettier sister of mega Norfolk seaside resort Hunstanton.

“Whilst Hunstanton has a massive arcade and bowling alley practically smack-bang on the promenade, a 15-minute walk along the clifftops will lead you to a beautiful and less busy alternative.

“The walk there overlooks the town’s famous striped limestone cliffs, plus you’ll pass a Victorian lighthouse and 13th century ruins on your way, too.

“The beach boasts soft, golden sands with rolling dunes and colourful beach huts, backed by a pretty pinewood forest. It makes for a great bucket-and-spade spot for families, with loos, a cafe and plenty of car parking spots all close by.

“I recommend trying a fry-up at the Old Hunstanton Beach Cafe, a dog-friendly spot that serves up a fantastic breakfast, as well as homemade cakes and an entire library of loose-leaf teas.

“Plus the Old Hunstanton RNLI station opposite is often open to let visitors see its impressive hovercraft up close.” – Travel Reporter, Jenna Stevens

Seahouses, Northumberland

“The many working fishing boats bobbing in its compact harbour are the reason why this historic village on the Northumberland coast offers an authentic, classic British seaside break.

“The catch still lands daily – guaranteeing some of the freshest and best fish and chips in the region and the place has no modern distractions like flashing arcades.

“A stroll along the beach and a poke about in the rockpools on land and the chance to take to a boat for a trip over to the Farne Islands.

“It’s home to one of the UK’s largest colonies of Atlantic grey seals – it’s simple classic British coastal charm.” – Head of Sun Travel, Lisa Minot

Salcombe, Devon

“Tucked away on the South Devon coast, Salcombe is well-known for its golden sands beaches.

“The town is often dubbed ‘Chelsea on Sea’ because of its picturesque houses and pretty harbour. Head to North Sands if you want a family-friendly spot.

“Or venture to South Sands, which is accessible by a sea tractor. The town has lots of independent businesses and cost-effective restaurants as well.

“And if you happen to be there in April, make sure to spend time at the Salcombe Crabfest.

“One of the best things to do in the coastal town – no matter the time of year – is to try Salcombe Dairy Ice Cream, which is simply heavenly, especially the honeycomb.” Travel Reporter, Cyann Fielding

Frinton-on-Sea, Essex

“I consider Frinton-on-Sea to be the more chilled out sister of Clacton – it’s so much quieter, and very peaceful, but still just as fun for a beach break.

“The Essex town of Frinton has a huge sweeping beach lined with the classic brightly coloured beach huts – a mark of any beach day trip – along with a retro ice cream parlour.

“You can pop into The Lock and Barrel which is minutes away from the beach, and when it opened was the town’s very first pub.

“When the weather is a little breezy and it’s not warm enough to sit on the beach, take a stroll along the many walking paths.

“If you head slightly up the coast, you should try to spot some seals in nearby Harwich.” – Travel Reporter, Alice Penwill

Broadstairs, Kent

“So while Broadstairs technically has a small arcade, it’s a blink-and-you’ll-miss-it one tucked away from the beach.

“Put on the map by Charles Dickens who raved about its beauty, you can even go back in time by visiting the Dickens House Museum.

“But the seaside town is threatening to become a trendy new Kent destination thanks to some new openings.

“There is the new Smith’s Townhouse, a beautiful boutique hotel, as well as the small plates restaurant Bar Ingo, recently named in the top 100 UK restaurants by OpenTable.

“You’re spoilt for choice for trendy cafes, from Giant Coffee and Salt to Forts and Kope + Loke. But it has kept its Victorian seaside charm, with traditional chippy The Mermaid as well as the best ice cream sundaes at Morelli.

“And while the beach certainly welcomes the tourists in droves, you can rent a deckchair and watch the yachts come in for some old-fashioned charm, while listening to live music from the bandstand above.” – Deputy Travel Editor, Kara Godfrey

Robin Hood’s Bay, North Yorkshire

“Any picture you take in Robin Hood’s Bay could immediately become a postcard.

“A visit to the North Yorkshire fishing village feels like stepping back in time, with winding narrow streets snaking through a maze of red-roofed cottages.

“On the steep but scenic walk down to the shore, you’ll pass unique miniature pubs with room for only a bar and a couple of bar stools.

“If you manage to bag yourself a seat in one, you’re lucky – make sure to soak up the ambience of hundreds of years of maritime history.

“The village used to be the smuggling capital of the North coast, and today you can see the same narrow ginnels and cellars where tea, tobacco and gin were once hidden.

“Once you’ve made it down to the beach, you’ll find smooth sands and calm waters equally enjoyed by families and dog walkers.

“Both little ones and four-legged members of the family will enjoy racing across the flat, sprawling sands.

“Plus, at low-tide, there are always fascinating finds and fossils collected in the shallow rockpools.” – Travel Reporter, Jenna Stevens

Sidmouth, Devon

“One of my favourite spots on the Jurassic Coast is Sidmouth.

“It’s famous for its Grade-II listed steps called Jacob’s Ladder which lead down to the shingle beach.

“Or if you don’t fancy them – because they are very steep – you can still get to the beach by walking down the hill instead.

“As the beach is shingle rather than sand, I’d suggest taking something to lie on if you plan on sunbathing.

“Later on, make sure to explore the town, walk along the promenade and check out the independent shops and boutiques. Make sure to pop into Ice Cream Paradise for a frozen treat later on.

“During my visit I stayed in the incredible Harbour Hotel & Spa which has an outdoor pool, beautiful gardens with sunloungers.

“It’s elevated position means it has unbeatable views across the coastline.” – Travel Reporter Alice Penwill

For more on beaches, here’s the where to find the best in the UK – and it gets the least amount of rain in the country.

And here are our 26 must-visit UK beaches for 2026 – including tropical-feel spots and family-friendly finds.

Visiting this Spanish archipelago is like winning the lottery

A short ferry ride from Vigo (daily and overnight visitor numbers are capped) took us to the tiny archipelago of the Cíes Islands, a protected cluster of islands where seabirds rule and tiny beaches remain unspoilt. There are no cars on the island and only a few small restaurants dotted about. There is one campsite, with little else but the waves of the Atlantic to lull you to sleep. I felt as if I had won the lottery when we visited and knew this would be an experience not easily matched.
Helen E

Ischia in Italy is best by bus

Italy has brilliant public transport. We found it so easy to use the ferries and buses during our visit to Ischia in the Bay of Naples. The simple circular routes on the island mean there is almost zero chance of getting lost. You can buy a day ticket for a few euros, hopping on and off at your leisure until quite late in the evening. Much more fun to experience the lovely island like the locals and cheaper than a taxi.
Jane

A serene corner of Elba

Tiny Cavo on the island of Elba is my idea of heaven. Some of the hydrofoils from Piombino on the mainland stop there; some continue round to the busier Portoferraio with its mega yachts and bustle. Cavo is much quieter, more serene, and the iron-rich landscape means that the sea glitters with tiny flecks of iron as you swim underwater. A few hotels, a beach, prawns the size of your head, a jazz festival in the summer: what’s not to like? Porto Azzurro is more glamorous, but the quiet of Cavo is what I want.
Angharad

An overlooked Greek island

I recently revisited Aegina, off Athens, which was my childhood holiday spot for many years. It’s more than just “a small island near Piraeus”; it was once, very briefly, the capital of Greece and still has impressive ancient temples from a time when it stood strong among larger Greek city states. The town has changed, but it was great to see once again the port with its colourful mansions, market, and the mix of boats bobbing in the water. Returning felt like a trip down memory lane, and I’m grateful that Aegina remains charming and slightly off the usual tourist path.
Michael Castelli-Coats

Soulful and sandy Rügen, Germany

For a nostalgic escape, head to Rügen, Germany’s Baltic jewel and largest island. Famed for its white chalk cliffs, the island’s soul lies in its fine sands and unspoilt towns. In Binz and Sellin, ornate belle époque villas line the promenade, feeling wonderfully frozen in time. We took the Rasender Roland steam train from Putbus to Göhren, stopping at charming seaside resorts along the way. Whether soaking up the architecture or lounging in a wicker strandkorb (beach basket), Rügen is a masterclass in coastal serenity. We stayed at Hotel Am Meer & Spa (€165 B&B) and enjoyed its panoramic views.
Daniela

The UK’s ultimate north

Unst, the UK’s most northerly inhabited island, is reached via two small ferries through Shetland. The journey is part of the pleasure. Rolling, heather-covered hills greet you. Hermaness national nature reserve is a highlight, with boardwalks to dramatic cliffs and the UK’s northernmost point. May to August offers the best chance of good weather and puffins, though neither is guaranteed. Nor were the otters that we glimpsed.
Richard Waters

Kayaking around Vis, Croatia

The cliffs on the north side of the Croatian island of Vis rise straight up from the sea, a crumpled mass of limestone. You can kayak round the island in a week – if the weather gods are kind – but it’s the desolate north coast that makes the greatest impression. Eleonora’s falcons nest there and screech as you paddle past. At one point along the shore, a blowhole erupts in a burst of spray with each wave. Small bays with sandy beaches let you take a break from kayaking, but you won’t see another person until you reach Vis port, tired but deeply satisfied.
Andrew Cassely

A timeless slice of village life in Sicily

Perched high in the Nebrodi mountains, Old Noar Villa in Novara di Sicilia offers a rare kind of island escape: Sicily slowed to a human pace. Fruit trees, grapevines and walnut trees surround the house, scented by mountain air and deep quiet. Ancient churches and a beautifully preserved 200-year-old theatre anchor village life, alongside the butcher, baker and biscotti maker, cafes and softly buzzing bars. The sea is never far – the almost Grecian Aeolian Islands are just a hop away.
Neil Masey

Cycle to huge beaches off the Netherlands

Schiermonnikoog is well off the beaten track in the north of the Netherlands. Only permanent residents are allowed to drive; everyone else cycles or walks. It has one of the largest beaches in Europe, where you can go seal spotting or birding. It’s brilliant for kids because there’s hardly any traffic – they can safely roam around by themselves.
Sabine

Winning tip: We glimpsed our future on a Scottish island

Arran is stunning and diverse. We went just after finding out my partner was pregnant, so it holds a special place in our hearts. In Lochranza, we stepped off the bus and immediately saw a herd of deer and seals on the beach. We walked the rugged coast to Hutton’s Unconformity, where it was realised the Earth is millions not thousands of years old, and imagined our future. In the cosy community pub, a friendly barman shared his whisky knowledge. We returned for our first family holiday. We took a slower pace, pottering along the seafront and castle gardens in Brodick. Auchrannie spa pool was perfect for our baby’s first swim. We’ll go back again when he’s old enough to enjoy more of an adventure on Arran.
Nic

After a long, grey winter, the first signs of spring are starting to appear. We’d love to hear about your favourite days out in the UK to celebrate the change of season and the arrival of longer, brighter days. From blossom trails and tulip displays in beautiful gardens, to birdwatching, bike rides, food festivals and farm visits to see newborn lambs, tell us about your favourite spring activities.

The best tip of the week, chosen by Tom Hall of Lonely Planet, wins a £200 voucher to stay at a Coolstays property – the company has more than 3,000 worldwide. The best tips will appear in the Guardian Travel section and website.

Keep your tip to about 100 words

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