Frozen

The town is the oldest in the country and was the capital for several hundred years, with wealthy merchants flocking to the thriving trading hub which is well preserved today

A town that is more than a thousand years old sits on the banks of a picturesque lake and is filled with colorful wooden houses.

Sigtuna, often described as Sweden’s first town, is a small and charming destination that blends history and natural beauty. Located just 45 minutes from Stockholm and only a short drive from Arlanda Airport, it is ideal for a day trip if you’re in the modern Swedish capital.

Despite having a population of just 10,000 today, Sigtuna was effectively the capital of Sweden following its founding in 980AD, serving as the royal and commercial center until the 13th century. Although it may have lost its economic and political clout, Sigtuna remains a fascinating place that offers an authentic glimpse into Sweden’s past.

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Its rich history is evident at every turn, from the cobbled streets and medieval ruins to the ancient runestones scattered throughout the area. These runestones—over 150 in total—serve as open-air monuments to the Viking Age, engraved with inscriptions commemorating people who lived and traded here more than a thousand years ago. The Sigtuna Rune Stone Walk takes you around the town centre and along the Procession Road, passing a total of 15 rune stones, mostly dating from the 10th and 11th centuries. Each has its own information board and translation of the runic inscription.

The town’s archaeological heritage has been carefully preserved and is well contextualised at the Sigtuna Museum.

One of the town’s main attractions is Stora Gatan, Sweden’s oldest main street. “This street is special because its layout has not changed for nearly a millennium,” writes Atlas Obscura.

Sigtuna’s founder, King Erik the Victorious, wanted to make the city the country’s capital, but this was not a straightforward task. To get the public, and more importantly, wealthy landowners, on board, he divided up the land into plots and gave them away to influential people. They would not live on the land, but would often visit and flaunt their riches.

“Over time, it truly became the capital of Sweden, and travelers from all over the world would arrive here with their goods. Underneath the road, archeologists have found items from the Byzantine empire, Asia, and the old Russian empire,” Atlas Obscura continues.

Sadly, all of the old buildings except for a few churches have been broken down or were burned in fires. New houses were constructed and the city evolved, but the main street remains much the same.

Lined with colourful wooden houses, boutique shops, cosy cafés, and art galleries, it’s a beautiful place for a wander of an afternoon, and one that will make you feel as if you’ve been transported back in time.

Many of the shops sell local handicrafts, design pieces, and Swedish-made souvenirs, making it an excellent place to pick up a tasteful nifty-gifty.

The street also leads directly to the picturesque shores of Lake Mälaren, where visitors can stroll along the water, enjoy a fika by the marina, or take a boat trip during the summer months.

Sigtuna’s three medieval church ruins—St. Lars, St. Olaf, and St. Peter’s—stand as atmospheric reminders of the town’s Christian heritage. These stone ruins, surrounded by quiet gardens and walking paths, contrast with the still-active Sigtuna Church, which dates back to the 13th century and remains a focal point for the local community. The blend of old and new architecture gives the town a timeless quality, appealing to travellers interested in both history and culture.

Beyond its historical significance, Sigtuna is known for its relaxed pace and natural surroundings. The town is nestled among forests and lakes, offering plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities such as cycling, kayaking, and hiking. In winter, the frozen lake becomes a natural ice-skating rink, and during the warmer months, visitors can swim, picnic, or simply enjoy the serenity of the landscape. The nearby Sigtunastiftelsen, a cultural and conference centre with a café and beautiful gardens, is another peaceful retreat ideal for reflection or afternoon tea.

Sigtuna offers something that few other destinations can: a living link between the Viking Age and modern Scandinavia. It’s history isn’t confined to museums, but it’s woven into the streets, stones, and scenery.

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EU leaders had hoped to agree on a plan to fund a loan of 140 billion euros to bolster Ukraine.

Leaders across the European Union have agreed to help Ukraine fund its fight against Russia’s invasion, but stopped short of approving a plan that would draw from frozen Russian assets to do so, after Belgium raised objections.

EU leaders met in Brussels on Thursday to discuss Ukraine’s “pressing financial needs” for the next two years. Many leaders had hoped the talks would clear the way for a so-called “reparation loan”, which would use frozen Russian assets held by the Belgian financial institution Euroclear to fund a loan of 140 billion euros ($163.3bn) for Ukraine.

The EU froze about 200 billion euros ($232.4bn) of Russian central bank assets after the country launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. In order to use the assets to fund Ukraine’s war effort, the European Commission, the EU’s executive, has floated a complex financial manoeuvre that involves the EU borrowing matured funds from Euroclear.

That money would then, in turn, be loaned to Ukraine, on the understanding that Kyiv would only repay the loan if Russia pays reparations.

The scheme would be “fully guaranteed” by the EU’s 27 member states – who would have to ensure repayment themselves to Euroclear if they eventually decided Russia could reclaim the assets without paying reparations. Belgium, the home of Euroclear, objected to this plan on Thursday, with Prime Minister Bart De Wever calling its legality into question.

Russia has described the idea as an illegal seizure of property and warned of retaliation.

Following Thursday’s political wrangling, a text approved by all the leaders – except Hungary’s Prime Minister Viktor Orban – was watered down from previous drafts to call for “options for financial support based on an assessment of Ukraine’s financing needs.” Those options will be presented to European leaders at their next summit in December.

“Russia’s assets should remain immobilised until Russia ceases its war of aggression against Ukraine and compensates it for the damage caused by its war,” the declaration added.

Earlier, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, a guest at the summit, had urged a quick passage of the plan for the loan.

“Anyone who delays the decision on the full use of frozen Russian assets is not only limiting our defence, but also slowing down the EU’s own progress,” he told the EU leaders, saying Kyiv would use a significant part of the funds to buy European weapons.

Earlier, the EU adopted a new round of sweeping sanctions against Russian energy exports on Thursday, as well, banning liquefied natural gas imports.

The move followed United States President Donald Trump’s announcement on Wednesday that Russia’s two biggest oil companies would face US sanctions.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday struck a defiant tone over the sanctions, saying they were an “unfriendly act”, and that Russia would not bend under pressure.

Hawkshead in the Lake District is a picturesque village that feels as if it has been frozen in time, with cobbled streets, whitewashed cottages, and the absence of cars on many of its pretty lanes

There’s a stunning village tucked away in the Lake District that transports visitors straight back in time.

Hawkshead, situated in the heart of the National Park, provides a charming window into days gone by. With its cobblestone pathways, whitewashed homes, and vehicle-free lanes, the village appears completely untouched by modern life.

Beatrix Potter remains the village’s most celebrated resident and one of its greatest champions. The Tale of Peter Rabbit writer purchased vast expanses of countryside surrounding Hawkshead after developing feelings for solicitor William Heelis, whom she encountered in the village and subsequently wed, reports the Express.

Potter’s fierce dedication to preserving the countryside, as a distinguished member of the agricultural community, led her to collaborate with the National Trust to maintain the picturesque landscape in its natural state. She wasn’t the sole writer to discover creative fuel in Hawkshead.

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“His experiences in and around Hawkshead, where William and Richard Wordsworth began attending school in 1779, would also provide the poet with a store of images and sensory experience that he would continue to draw on throughout his poetic career,” writes the Poetry Foundation.

It’s hardly surprising that Potter and the poet laureate drew such creative inspiration from Hawkshead, which boasts a modest population of just 500 residents.

Hawkshead’s car-free village centre, featuring its winding lanes and passages, remains completely protected from motor traffic. Nestled amidst breathtaking natural landscapes, Hawkshead serves as an ideal hub for outdoor enthusiasts.

With a plethora of hiking trails, cycling routes, and water activities in nearby lakes such as Windermere and Coniston, there’s something for everyone, from seasoned hill walkers to those who prefer a leisurely stroll. The local fells offer both accessible paths and more challenging hikes.

Among the popular walks are the sculpture trail through the neighbouring Grizedale Forest and the route to Tarn Hows, one of the most cherished beauty spots in the entire Lake District.

After working up an appetite, you can quench your thirst and satisfy your hunger at one of the village’s four quaint country pubs, including The Queen’s Head. This dog-friendly inn has been welcoming guests since the 17th century with its roaring fires, cask ales, award-winning food, and overnight accommodation.

On a sunny day, what could be more delightful than savouring an ice cream while meandering through the village’s charming streets or pausing for a cuppa and homemade cake at a traditional tearoom?

You can even take a piece of Hawkshead back home with you, in the form of jams and chutneys from Hawkshead Relish, or some Grasmere Gingerbread. The renowned bakery has its only shop outside of Grasmere in the village.

The tranquil pace, picturesque scenery, and rows of unaltered, listed houses in Hawkshead have made it a firm favourite among visitors.

Local resident Ruth, writing for Lakeland Hideaways, describes the charm of her town: “The higgledy-piggledy cobbled streets lead you to village shops, bakeries, cafes and boutiques. Cars are banned from the village which makes this a particularly nice place to wander about and soak up the Cumbrian culture”.

She proudly adds, “Our village has been described as the ‘prettiest village in the Lake District’.”

Long-time visitor Clive Wheat shares his fond memories: “When I think of the Lakes I think of Hawkshead. I have been visiting this village for over forty-five years and even stayed here on our honeymoon. It’s always a pleasure to revisit this wonderful Lake District village.”

In its guide to the town, Choose Where paints a nostalgic picture: “Hawkshead feels like a step back into a quieter, more romantic version of England.”

They continue, “Hawkshead is worth visiting for its unspoilt character, literary heritage, and position as a gateway to some of the Lake District’s loveliest countryside. Unlike some Lake District towns that have been heavily modernised, Hawkshead retains its medieval street plan and historic charm, with car-free lanes winding past ancient buildings.”

Nestled between Coniston and Windermere, the village centre is car-free, but there is a large pay-and-display car park on the outskirts. Public transport options, including the 505 Stagecoach bus service, connect Hawkshead with nearby towns like Ambleside, Coniston, and Windermere.

Frinton-on-Sea in Essex is a charming seaside town that has been frozen in time, with a population of just 4,837 and a relaxed pace of life that has seen people move there from the capital and other major cities across the UK

A delightful coastal town is being praised by residents as a nostalgic glimpse into 1950s and 60s Britain.

Renowned for its charming, traditional atmosphere, Frinton-on-Sea in Essex provides a peaceful retreat from the heaving masses who descend upon neighbouring seaside resorts Clacton-on-Sea and Walton-on-the-Naze.

Home to merely 4,837 residents, it also enjoys a leisurely rhythm of life and close-knit community spirit that has recently attracted newcomers from London and other major urban centres nationwide.

Pet enthusiasts will be delighted to discover that its broad, sweeping sandy shores welcome dogs from September 30 until May.

The heart of the settlement is the Esplanade, housing The Rock, Frinton’s sole remaining operational hotel.

During the stroll towards the shore, visitors encounter a row of colourful beach huts overlooking the North Sea waves, which crash against the sea wall during high tide.

Becky Dance, 44, accompanied by her mother Linda Hartnoll and grandchildren Hugo and Greyson, ventured down for a day trip from Colchester, discovering the location picture-perfect.

She said: “It’s just lovely. It’s nice and quiet. The kids just love playing here.”

Linda also expressed her appreciation for the area’s topography, adding: “It’s safe here because it’s very flat.” Peter Wade, alongside his wife Pat, moved to Frinton following their retirement from local government roles in Enfield, North London.

Looking back on their former life, Mr Wade, 72, explained how he felt threatened after dark due to escalating crime in his previous neighbourhood.

He told the Express: “The area changed the last seven years we were there. There were two murders. The house next door was converted into a drugs den. We came here because this is England as we knew it as children. We can walk down this road and say hello to so many people. The community spirit we have here, in my mind, is second to none. It’s a spirit I grew up with in the 1950s and early 60s.”

Frinton is also home to numerous societies, including the fondly nicknamed Frinton War Memorial Club or “the Mem”, where locals congregate for pleasant conversation over beverages.

On the periphery, the Frinton Golf Club serves as another popular destination amongst residents.

The seaside town was recently branded as the country’s NIMBY capital by a Telegraph investigation, which highlighted the protracted procedure it required for Frinton to embrace the new Lock and Barrel gastropub.

However, Rob Morgan, a councillor on Frinton and Walton Town Council, maintained that the existing clubs adequately serve the social and drinking requirements of the community, clarifying why there aren’t numerous pubs in Frinton. Having resided in Frinton for nearly two decades, he admitted that the town has transformed, with the High Street now teeming with restaurants and cafes rather than the varied shops of old.

The automation of the level crossing gates, a unique feature of the town, sparked controversy as it led to the job loss of the manual operator. However, Mr Morgan is convinced that the town has retained its charm and is an ideal spot for those seeking a community-oriented lifestyle in their twilight years, adding: “It’s a really delightful town. I love living here… When you talk about older people being isolated, it doesn’t happen in Frinton.”

IF you ski down through the woods today, you’re sure of a big surprise.

Especially when you are in Hundfjallet — one of four ski areas in the Swedish mountain resort Salen.

A magical beginner slope winds through a Troll Forest where dozens of wooden statues protrude from the snow, singing and telling folk tales.

My young kids liken this enchanted realm to the lands of Elsa and Anna in Disney movie Frozen.

And there’s even a ski-thru McDonald’s too — see right.

It is the first time I’ve taken my family skiing and the children are spellbound from the get-go.

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Making their way through the mythical woods of Trollskogen, they look in wonder.

The only things that stop them begging to return immediately to the top of the run are a log cabin serving hot chocolate near an open fire — and an open-air theatre with a dance show featuring the resort’s mascot, Snowman Valle.

Aside from it being wonderfully child-friendly, one of the best things about Salen is how quickly you can get there.

The resort, in west-central Sweden, near the Norwegian border, is just a two-hour flight from the UK then a ten-minute transfer.

Within an hour of landing at the airport, we had dumped our bags, got completely kitted out — including with ski pass, part of our deal from operator Sunweb — and were gliding down the pistes.

All of this was made even easier by our 4H “ski in and ski out” SkiStar Lodge apartment hotel, which has everything you could wish for within a short walk, from ski school, ski rental and sledging hill, to luxury spa, restaurants, playroom, creche and supermarket.

Salen is generally suited more to beginner and intermediate skiiers. But with 101 runs, including some nice off-piste, back-country routes, and a 45-degree black run called The Wall, there is enough to keep even the most advanced occupied.

If you are looking for an alternative to downhill skiing or boarding, the area also offers dog-sled rides, Ski-Doo snowmobile trails, and superb cross-country skiing.

After a tiring day on the mountain you can simply slide back to the hotel — which has a vast storage room for all your gear — and head to the bar for authentic Swedish apres ski.

Yes, that means Abba songs, as well as lots of sing-along tunes for the kids — while they energise on their slush puppies with marshmallows, and the adults relax with a beer and bowls of hot, salty chips.

Another great way to unwind after all that exertion on the mountain is the on-site Frost Spa, where you can look at the ski slopes from a steaming outdoor pool, relax in two tingling-hot Jacuzzis, melt away in the sauna and steam rooms, and get a Swedish massage — before a drink at the bar.

Salen also comprises the busier Lindvallen ski area — 20 minutes away on the free bus — where you can grab a burger and chips in the world’s one and only ski-thru McDonald’s.

Lindvallen also has a ten-pin bowling alley, arcade and the SkiStar Experium fun pool with surf simulator and two exciting waterslides for the kids to go wild in.

At day’s end, back at the hotel, the children can also enjoy free table tennis, pool and shuffleboard until they are ready to drop.

And when they are finally tucked up in bed, adults can settle down in front of the apartments’ giant TVs  and watch Frozen or listen to Abba songs.

Just Gimme, gimme, gimme another Swedish ski holiday.

AS I look down into the valley below, I spot the unmistakable outline of the Golden Arches gleaming in the snow.

Peeling off my gloves, I unlock my phone screen and hit the McDonald’s app, ordering two Happy Meals, a Big Mac and a McChicken sandwich.

I’ve never seen my children ski as quickly as they did to the hatch to collect our order.

The world’s only McSki in Sweden’s Lindvallen, is decked out like an Alpine chalet with stone and wood features and can seat up to 170 people.

It offers all the same menu items that can be found in other McDonald’s around the world and the prices are comparable to back home in England – with main meals costing around £7.

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This means you can get a pretty cheap lunch compared to other mountain restaurant options.

Who can say no to that?

A once packed theme park has been left frozen and derelict for more than 25 years with many of it’s buildings still sat on the coast the same as the 1990s

When you think of theme parks, you may think of the city-sized parks of Disney World in Florida, or even the thrills closer to home of Alton Towers and Thorpe Park, but just two decades ago, many more theme parks lined the coast and countryside.

While the Lancashire coast still has rollercoaster screams, kilos of candyfloss and the clatter of rides on a track at Blackpool Pleasure Beach, one place just up the coast has all its thrills frozen in time, abandoned and left to rust.

While thousands may have childhood memories from family days out, now all that remains of those days at one park are the memories. Coastal Lancashire has its fair share of charm, and Morecambe in particular has held many hearts for decades.

Its promenade, vintage amusements, and views across the bay still draw people from miles around. But beneath that familiar seaside postcard, there are corners of the town that feel like they belong to another era entirely, and one such place is Frontierland.

First opening its park gates back in 1987 after the redevelopment of Morecambe Pleasure Park, Frontierland dubbed itself as one of the first “genuine” theme parks in the UK. It was owned by Geoffrey Thomson, managing director of the more popular Blackpool Pleasure Beach and Pleasureland Southport.

It offered log flumes, a Wild West theme, coasters and cables, and a colourful escape for generations of families. The site itself had been a theme park of sorts since 1906, and it once had a wooden rollercoaster called the Cyclone, which was designed and built by American engineer Harry Traver in 1937 for the Paris World Exposition.

A later addition was a 150-foot Big Wheel, which had to be quickly removed in 1982 because of neighbour complaints. But as visitor numbers continued to dwindle at the park, and Morecambe in general, the park decided to begin downsizing just 10 years after it opened, and only two years later, in 2000, it would shut for good.

Many of its attractions were either scrapped or moved over to Thompson’s two other parks. The “Rattler” was moved to the Pleasure Beach, whilst “The Wild Mouse” and “Chair-o-Plans were moved to the Southport site, which would also close in 2006.

For the next two decades, the rest of the park remained derelict, stuck in time and slowly turning into a wasteland.

After lying derelict, Lancaster City Council bought the site in 2021 and has invited interested parties to create proposals for it. Earlier this year, there were reports that the town council was considering plans for development.

Despite 35 developers interested in taking Frontierland ideas and prepared to submit proposals and tenders to the council, no news has yet been shared, and so much of the park continues to lie there, a remnant of a time no longer past.

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Rococo Garden represents an essential destination within the settlement.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

In Clovelly in North Devon, life moves at a slower pace, with goods hauled on wooden sledges and donkeys still making occasional appearances on the cobbled streets

Cars are banned in a UK village where locals have decided to do things the old-fashioned way.

Perched on the cliffs of North Devon lies Clovelly, a village where it can feel as if time simply stopped. Here, cars aren’t just discouraged — they’re completely banned. Instead, life moves at a slower pace, with goods hauled on wooden sledges and donkeys still making occasional appearances on the cobbled streets.

Visitors to Clovelly quickly discover that modern transport is left firmly at the top of the hill. The only way into the village is on foot, down steep cobbled lanes that wind between whitewashed cottages and burst open into a postcard-worthy harbour. It comes after a British man claimed ‘I moved from UK to Benidorm – price of a pint and Full English left me floored’.

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The absence of cars isn’t the result of modern environmental policies but centuries of practicality — the roads are too steep and narrow for vehicles. Deliveries are made on sledges dragged by hand, inching goods down the cobbles to shops and homes. Rubbish is hauled back up in the same way, keeping the village running as it has for generations.

For hundreds of years, donkeys were the workhorses of Clovelly. They carried fish from the harbour, hauled building supplies, and transported luggage for visitors. Today, they’ve retired from hard labour, but you can still meet them in the stables at the top of the village.

Meanwhile, the wooden sledge has taken over most of the donkey’s workload. Each one is handmade by locals, often adapted to carry everything from crates of food to furniture.

Clovell was once owned by the Queen of England, the estate having originally been owned by William the Conqueror, King of England, and then gifted to his wife.It had many royal associations until 1242 when first acquired by the Giffard family. Until the middle of the 19th century Clovelly was all-but-unknown to the outside world, such was the private way in which the village was run.

Motoring experts at Show Plates World say Clovelly is a fascinating contrast to the UK’s car-obsessed culture.

“Britain has always been a nation on the move, but Clovelly shows us what happens when the car is taken out of the picture. The village thrives on tradition and community, proving that life without traffic isn’t just possible — it can be beautiful. While cars dominate almost every aspect of modern life, Clovelly’s charm comes from rejecting them altogether,” a representative of the company said in a statement.

“It’s also a reminder of how much cars shape our environment. Walking through Clovelly, you notice the peace, the clean air, and the sounds of people and nature instead of engines. That’s an experience you don’t forget.”

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Clovelly’s history stretches back to the Domesday Book. For centuries, it’s been privately owned and carefully maintained, ensuring its streets, cottages, and harbour retain their unique character. Visitors pay a small entrance fee of around £9.50 for adults and £5.50 for children, which helps maintain the village, its museums and gardens — keeping the cobbles and cottages in pristine condition.

Throughout the year, Clovelly also hosts festivals celebrating its maritime roots, including herring, lobster and crab fairs. These events fill the car-free streets with music, food and laughter, reinforcing its strong ties to the sea and its heritage.

With its cobbled lanes, flower-draped cottages and sweeping sea views, Clovelly is often described as one of the most beautiful villages in Britain. What sets it apart is not just its looks, but its atmosphere — a sense of stepping out of the modern world into something slower, calmer and more magical.

THE remains of a Brit researcher who died in Antarctica have been discovered nearly six decades after a tragic accident.

Dennis “Tink” Bell, at the time 25, fell into a crevasse during an Antarctic mission – leaving his devastated family unable to repatriate his body.

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Dennis’s body was never recovered until January 29 – when a team of Polish researchers from the Henryk Arctowski Polish Antarctic Station stumbled upon bones later confirmed to be his.

His brother, David Bell, told the BBC: “I had long given up on finding my brother. It is just remarkable, astonishing. I can’t get over it.”

Born in 1934, Dennis worked with the RAF and trained as a meteorologist before joining the Falkland Islands Dependencies Survey – later renamed the British Antarctic Survey.

In 1958, he began a two-year posting at the UK base in Admiralty Bay, Antarctica.

His main role was to send up weather balloons and radio the data back to the UK every three hours – work that meant firing up a generator in brutal sub-zero conditions.

The base sat on King George Island – around 75 miles off the northern tip of the Antarctic Peninsula.

Archivist Ieuan Hopkins from the British Antarctic Survey unearthed detailed reports describing work on the “ridiculously isolated” island.

One report described Dennis as “cheerful and industrious, with a mischievous sense of humour and fondness for practical jokes”.

He was said to have loved the husky dogs that pulled sledges around the island and was known as the hut’s best cook – often managing the food store through the long winter when no supplies could get in.

The fatal accident happened just weeks after his 25th birthday, while Dennis was surveying King George Island to help map the terrain.

On July 26 1959 – deep in the Antarctic winter – Dennis and his colleague and pal Jeff Stokes had climbed and surveyed a glacier.

Dennis was encouraging the weary dogs but wasn’t wearing his skis when he suddenly vanished into a crevasse, according to British Antarctic Survey accounts.

Jeff shouted down to him and Dennis was able to call back, grabbing hold of a rope lowered in a rescue attempt.

The dogs pulled at the rope, hauling Dennis – who had attached it to his belt – up towards the edge of the hole.

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But tragically, the belt broke and Dennis fell back into the crevasse.

When Jeff called out again, Dennis didn’t reply.

David Bell recalled how, in July 1959, a telegram boy knocked on the door of the Bells’ family home in Harrow, London to deliver the devastating news of Dennis’ death.

He said two men from Dennis’s base later visited the family and brought a sheepskin as a gesture of sympathy.

“But there was no conclusion. There was no service; there was no anything. Just Dennis gone,” David says.

David described feeling overwhelmed by the news and expressed his gratitude to the Polish researchers who found his remains.

“I’m just sad my parents never got to see this day,” he said.

David, who lives in Australia, plans to visit England with his sister Valerie so they can lay their beloved brother to rest.

“It’s wonderful; I’m going to meet my brother. You might say we shouldn’t be thrilled, but we are,” David said.

“He’s been found – he’s come home now.”

Professor Dame Jane Francis, Director of the British Antarctic Survey, paid tribute to Dennis: “Dennis was one of the many brave personnel who contributed to the early science and exploration of Antarctica under extraordinarily harsh conditions.

“Even though he was lost in 1959, his memory lived on among colleagues and in the legacy of polar research.”

Since 1944, 29 people have died working in the British Antarctic Territory on scientific missions, according to the British Antarctic Monument Trust.

Among them were Alan Sharman and Russell Thompson, who also died in 1959.

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It is renowned for its Roman ruins and medieval architecture, and is often described as a ‘mini Rome’ without the bustling crowds

A stunning town famed for its Roman remains and medieval structures resembles a “mini Rome” but without the masses of tourists. Gubbio, a delightful town nestled in Italy’s lush Umbria region, whisks visitors back through the centuries. This ancient settlement is acknowledged as one of Italy’s largest and best-preserved medieval towns.

Tracing its roots back to 1000 AD, it occupies a crucial place in the country’s heritage and boasts historic landmarks alongside a fascinating past. Despite being Umbria’s oldest town, Gubbio remains extraordinarily well-maintained.

Tourists can witness structures that have endured for centuries, perhaps even millennia, scattered throughout the settlement.

Indeed, a Roman theatre stands here, constructed around 20BC, which ranked as the second largest in the Roman Empire under Emperor Augustus’ rule, reports the Express.

The remnants of Gubbio’s Roman Theatre remain visible on the town’s periphery.

Essential sights include the Palazzo dei Consoli and the Duomo di Gubbio, which proves immensely popular amongst visitors who have experienced the area.

Travellers can also discover the collections within the Palazzo dei Consoli, featuring artefacts from Gubbio’s past, archaeological discoveries, and artistic treasures.

Since Gubbio lacks the fame of other destinations in Italy’s central regions, holidaymakers can savour exploring its historic attractions without the typical throngs.

This presents a rare chance given Italy’s enormous popularity amongst globetrotters. The picturesque town is a stone’s throw away from central Italy’s hotspots, nestled just an hour’s drive from Perugia and a mere two hours from the Renaissance city of Florence.

Both cities are well-connected, with direct flights available from numerous UK airports and across Europe.

A travel guru has dubbed it a “historic marvel”. Ed Maughan, Managing Director of GroupAccommodation.com, describes the town as a “historic marvel that is brimming with impressive ancient sites” that leave visitors spellbound amidst its serpentine, cobblestone streets.

Adding to the town’s allure is the eerie “bird cage” cable car, known locally as the Funivia. The journey begins at the Basilica di Sant’Ubaldo on Monte Ingino, immortalised by Dante in his 11th-century works.

The two-seater cable cars are constantly on the go, so you’ll need to be nimble to hop aboard for the ride down to the town.

Labelled as “unique” by many, the town’s enchanting beauty has captivated travellers.

One TripAdvisor review said: “We were staying at a resort nearby and drove to Gubbio for the day. A small town, but very upscale. Apparently, the wealth is held by a few families. One of them makes cement and has factories around the world. Don’t miss the caged ride to the top for a great view.”

Another user expressed: “Being able to orient myself to Gubbio. Beautiful medieval city. Very informative. Train ran continuously over the course of the day.”

WASHINGTON — The Trump administration will release an estimated $1.3 billion in previously withheld grant money for schools nationwide, but has warned states that it will rescind funding not spent for “allowable activities.”

About $5 billion to $6 billion remains in limbo. In typical years, this funding would have begun reaching states and school districts starting on July 1. California joined about two dozen states this week in suing for the release of the funds, calling the Trump administration action “unconstitutional, unlawful and arbitrary.”

In filing their lawsuit, California officials estimated that they were due close to a billion dollars. The California Department of Education said it received word Friday that the partial release represented about $158 million of that total.

The partial release came after 10 Republican senators on Wednesday sent a letter imploring the Trump administration to allow frozen education money to be sent to states.

The senators said the withheld money supported programs that had longstanding bipartisan support and were critical to local communities. The money had been appropriated by Congress in a bill that was signed by President Trump.

“We share your concern about taxpayer money going to fund radical left-wing programs,” the senators wrote to the Office of Management and Budget. “However, we do not believe that is happening with these funds.”

The Trump administration has argued otherwise, alleging that funding has been used to undermine policy goals that include having all classes conducted in English. The administration also accused agencies of using funds to advocate for immigrants who lack legal status in the country.

The notification to states about the release includes a long list of laws that states are warned not to violate including the U.S. Constitution, the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, which bans discrimination based on sex.

“To the extent that a grantee uses grant funds for such unallowable activities,” which the notice does not define specifically, “the [Education] Department intends to take appropriate enforcement action … which may include the recovery of funds.”

In separate actions, the Trump administration already has threatened California with pulling all federal funding for violations of Trump administration policy. This threat was made recently in connection with the state allowing trans athletes to compete in girls’ and women’s sports and government officials designating their jurisdictions as sanctuaries for immigrants.

What the money pays for

The withheld money paid for after-school and summer programs, adult literacy, English language instruction, teacher training and migrant education supports. The Office of Management and Budget said it held back the funds as part of a review to align spending with White House priorities.

The funds released Friday were partly intended to support many summer school programs, some of which shut down across the country due to the hold-back. This funding also supports after-school programming during the regular school year.

Without the money, school districts and nonprofits such as the YMCA and Boys and Girls Clubs of America had said they would have to close or scale back educational offerings this fall.

The money released Friday also pays for child care so low-income parents can work. In these programs, children also receive reading and math help, along with enrichment in science and the arts.

Despite the money’s release Friday, schools and nonprofits have already been disrupted by two weeks of uncertainty. Some programs have made plans to close, and others have fallen behind on hiring and contracting for the fall.

“While we are thrilled the funds will be made available,” said Jodi Grant, executive director of the Afterschool Alliance, “the administration’s inexplicable delay in disbursing them caused massive chaos and harm.” Many after-school programs had canceled plans to open in the fall, she said.

David Schuler, executive director of AASA, an association of school superintendents, praised the release of after-school money but said that the remaining education funding should not be withheld.

“Districts should not be in this impossible position where the Administration is denying funds that had already been appropriated to our public schools, by Congress,” Schuler said in a statement. “The remaining funds must be released immediately — America’s children are counting on it.”

Republican Sen. Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), who chairs the Senate Appropriations subcommittee that oversees education spending, was among the senators who signed the letter, which called for the full release of funds, including for adult education and teaching English as a second language.

“The decision to withhold this funding is contrary to President Trump’s goal of returning K-12 education to the states,” the senators wrote. “This funding goes directly to states and local school districts, where local leaders decide how this funding is spent.”

Sen. Patty Murray (D-Wash.) called on the White House to release the rest of the money.

“At this very moment, schools nationwide are crunching the numbers to figure out how many teachers they will need to lay off as Trump continues to hold up billions in funding,” Murray said Friday in a statement. “Every penny of this funding must flow immediately.”

Ma writes for the Associated Press.

Nestled almost two hours away from Munich and three hours from Frankfurt, Bamberg in Germany, is one of Europe’s most picturesque, well-preserved, and affordable holiday hotspots.

Tucked away in Upper Franconia, Germany, lies the charming town of Bamberg, a hidden gem that’s a must-visit for fans of beer, Bratwurst, and affordable holiday destinations. Located nearly two hours from Munich and three hours from Frankfurt, this picturesque town boasts a UNESCO World Heritage status and is often hailed as one of Europe’s most beautiful cities.

Nicknamed the “Franconian Rome”, Bamberg is built on seven hills and is steeped in history, with an array of architectural wonders dating back to the Middle Ages. This quaint Bavarian town, home to just under 76,000 residents, seamlessly blends modern life with historic cultural treasures of global significance.

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As you wander through the streets, you’ll discover buildings that have stood the test of time, while the town centre is filled with ornate palaces and medieval castles.

History buffs will be captivated by the stunning 13th-century Bamberg Cathedral, one of Germany’s most famous cathedrals, built between 1211 and 1237.

This late Romanesque and early Gothic landmark is notable for being one of the only papal graves in Germany, housing the marble sarcophagus of Pope Clement II.

Another unmissable attraction is St. Michael’s Monastery, a Baroque church boasting a breathtaking “celestial garden” with over 578 flowers and herbs, as well as a terrace offering a panoramic view of the town.

In addition to its rich history, Bamberg is also celebrated for its lively beer culture, boasting 13 breweries in the town and 60 more in the surrounding area, reports the Express.

Beer enthusiasts can sample the city’s famous hand-crafted brews, including the unique smoked beer, Rauchbier, available at local breweries Schlenkerla and Brauerei Spezial.

Beyond its breweries, Bamberg offers a range of local culinary delicacies, such as Schäuferla, a roasted pork shoulder marinated in a meat stock and dark beer broth, served with potato dumplings and cabbage.

Another standout dish is the blue sausages, Blaue Zipfel, which are boiled in a seasoned stock to create a rich, smoky flavour, typically served with sauerkraut, a pretzel, and a pint of smoked beer.

Travel vlogger Wolters World recently featured Bamberg in his YouTube video, “The Best Cheap European Destinations”, revealing that it’s his “favourite city” to visit in Germany.

He joked that prices in Bamberg have remained unchanged for the past decade, making it a budget-friendly option compared to other German cities.

Visitors can explore the city’s historic landmarks, such as Altenburg Castle, the Old Town Hall, and the 17th-century Neue Residenz palace, with its ornate ceilings, tapestries, and rose garden.

Though it may take a few hours to reach Bamberg by train or flight, the journey is certainly worth it for those who are fans of bratwurst, beer, and history.

Bamberg’s captivating charm and cost-effectiveness make it a popular choice for tourists.

A creepy underground station that has been left to rot for more than 30 years once played a vital part in protecting Brits from air ride strikes during both World Wars

Beneath the bustling streets of central London lies a ‘ghost’ station that remains eerily frozen in time. Thousands of Brits walk over this underground hub every single day, completely unaware of the abandoned station below them which has been described as a ‘deserted time capsule’ in the heart of the city.

Aldwych (also known as Strand) opened up back in 1907, and was once a terminus of the Piccadilly line, serving trains to and from Holborn station. Consisting of two platforms, interconnecting tunnels, and a ticket hall, this disused station played a key role during both World Wars, providing shelters for Londoners desperate to escape air raids.

It was also used to protect some of the nation’s most valuable artworks from being destroyed by bombs, including sections of the Elgin Marbles and paintings from the National Gallery.

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However, the station was never used by passengers as much as intended, resulting in it permanently closing to the public in 1994. Now, it remains a creepy omen of what once was, and has been used as a filming venue for several iconic films and TV shows, including Sherlock, Luther: The Fallen Sun, Mr Selfridge, 28 Weeks Later, and Netflix’s Bodies.

Distinguished by its famous red-tiled façade, Brits can now go on a tour of the station and spot the decades-old posters that still stick to the walls. The original 1907 lifts and vintage tiles have been left abandoned for decades, which makes for a perfect Instagram snap.

“Step back in time and immerse yourself in the beautifully preserved Leslie Green architecture that defined the Edwardian era,” states London Transport Museum, a charity dedicated to conserving and sharing London’s transport and design heritage.

“Retrace the steps of passengers from over a century ago in the turn-of-the-century ticket hall, step into the original 1907 lifts, and admire vintage tiles and signs dotted throughout the station. Discover how the station’s role extended beyond providing safety, with stories of the entertainment and community spirit that kept morale high beneath the city streets.”

Tickets to enter Aldwych are priced at £45 for adults and £42 for concessions and children. The tour is open to guests aged 10 and over, and those under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

The guided tour lasts for around 75 minutes and does not offer step-free access. There are 160 steps connecting the entrance at street level to the platforms below, meaning wheelchair users cannot be accommodated. “This tour also takes guests to confined areas and spaces with low lighting and that may be dusty, which may make it unsuitable for people with claustrophobia,” London Transport Museum added.

You can find out more about the tour here.

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In a major boost for the budget airline, Ryanair has been let off paying a €107million (£91million) fine slapped on it last year by the Spanish Ministry of Consumer Affairs

Ryanair has been handed a massive £91million victory by a Spanish court.

The budget airline has been let off paying a €107million (£91million) fine slapped on it last year by the Spanish Ministry of Consumer Affairs. The organisation had claimed that the airlines’ policies on charging for hand luggage violated consumer rights.

The fines were part of a wider crackdown that included three other airlines, including Norwegian, totalling €179 million (£152million) in fines.

Now the Spanish High Court in Madrid has decided to let Ryanair off, allowing the ruling to sit as a precautionary one.

It comes during a big week for air passenger rights, with the EU’s Transport and Tourism Committee voting to boost the amount of free hand luggage passengers flying to or from member states can take.

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“Passengers should have a right to carry on board one personal item, such as a handbag, backpack or laptop (maximum dimensions of 40x30x15 cm), and one small hand luggage (maximum dimensions of 100 cm and 7 kg) without an additional fee,” the committee decided. Before this decision becomes law, it must be voted through by the European Parliament in the coming weeks, and then discussed by country representatives for the European Council.

The proposals have been met with fierce opposition from budget airlines and the Spanish Association of Airlines (ALA), which has criticised it and the Ministry’s fines.

The organisation argues that such measures limit consumer choice and disrupt fair competition in the EU’s single market. “It’s about offering different service models at different price points,” the association stated.

Ryanair claims that the legal ruling this week “upholds Ryanair’s right, under EU law, to offer customers the freedom to choose — and pay for — any bags they choose to bring onboard, in addition to the free under-seat bag all Ryanair passengers bring onboard free of charge.”

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The Madrid Court noted that “the dispute between the parties is indeed complex, and it is not foreseeable that material harm would be caused to the general interest if these charges continue during the proceedings, particularly considering that such practice has been in place for years and that even the European Union is currently reformulating the current legal framework concerning whether such charges are permissible”.

Ryanair’s CEO, Michael O’Leary said: “The Spanish High Court has rightly upheld EU law which protects the freedom of all EU airlines to set our own prices, a fundamental right guaranteed under EU Reg 1008/2008. The Court also upheld the right of all Spanish passengers to choose how much cabin baggage they wish to carry and pay for in addition to Ryanair’s ‘maleta gratis’, which is bigger than the EU’s prescribed sizes.

With over €10 billion invested in Spain, Ryanair contributes over €24 billion to Spain’s GDP, supports more than 10,000 direct jobs for pilots, cabin crew and engineers. Given the current political climate in Spain, Minister Bustinduy has far more pressing matters to address than interfering with low-cost air travel — an industry that is vital to Spain’s economy. We now call on Minister Bustinduy to show respect for EU law and the needs of Spain’s passengers and scrap his unlawful bag fines.”

An eerie relic of the Soviet Union, this separatist region filled with Lenin statues and Putin souvenirs declared independence back in 1990 – but is internationally not recognised as an actual country

Touted as a ‘surreal relic of Soviet times’, this tiny country is attracting tourists from around the world – despite technically not even existing.

Eerily trapped in a ‘time warp bubble’, Transnistria is a separatist region sandwiched between the Dniester River and Ukrainian border. In 1990, it broke away from Moldova, becoming a de facto independent, semi-presidential republic with its own government, parliament, military, police, currency, postal system and vehicle registration.

Transnistria has even adopted its very own constitution, flag (which features the communist hammer and sickle), national anthem and coat of arms. However, it is internationally unrecognised, and is still seen as part of Moldova.

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With political, economical, and military ties to Russia, the narrow strip of land – located some three hours away from the UK – has preserved its idolisation of the USSR, despite its downfall. In the capital of Tiraspol, tourists will be able to spot soaring statues of Vladimir Lenin, run-down buses travelling along electrified lines, and souvenir shops flogging posters of Putin.

It feels as though the area has become stuck in the 1950s, and has recently become a potential site for Russia to deploy 10,000 troops. The area is also facing ‘deep economic contraction’ as Russia – which had previously supplied the de-facto state with near-free gas, has started to impose tighter restrictions.

“A referendum on independence in September 2006, not recognised by Moldova or the international community, saw the territory reassert its demand for independence and vote in support of ensuing a union with Russia,” reports the BBC. “After Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine, Ukraine sealed its border with Transnistria – this had been the main route for imports – making Transnistria wholly reliant on Moldova for imports through its own border.”

It’s therefore no surprise that the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) currently advises Brits against all travel to Transnistria. “There is widespread military activity in Ukraine, including close to some Moldovan borders,” the body warns.

“Transnistria is outside the control of the Moldovan government. FCDO’s ability to offer support is extremely limited and will be more limited if there is military action on or near the Moldova-Ukraine border.”

The UK government also warns that Moldova announced an energy state of emergency on December 16, 2024, linked to the cut-off of gas supplies on January 1, 2025. This may result in widespread blackouts.

Despite the warnings, several Brits have headed over to Transnistria, promoting it as the ‘cheapest’ place in Europe. User Kieran Brown, who visited last year, raved about the region – claiming a bottle of vodka from the shops costs just $1 (approximately 74p).

“The Soviet vibes can really be felt here in the capital of Tiraspol,” he said. “Many things have been left unchanged since the USSR. This truly was one of the most interesting places I’ve ever visited in my life.”

*Heading to a country on the FCDO’s do not travel list could void your insurance. You can read the government’s full advice here.

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Despite once being a thriving network link, this tiny railway station has almost been completely abandoned – except for the two trains that stop here once a week, both heading in the same direction

A tiny railway station that ‘refuses to die’ has been around for 160 years – but is hardly used at all.

Situated near Gloucestershire, on the South Wales mainline between Cardiff and Bristol, lies the forgotten station of Pilning. With no staff and just one platform, the hub has become ‘criminally neglected’ and ‘rendered virtually unusable’ due to years of poor maintenance and lack of investment.

It hasn’t been completely abandoned, and remains on official rail maps, but has become ghostly vacant. In fact, only two trains now actually stop at the station per week, both heading in the same direction – making it one of the country’s least-used railway stations.

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The station did see a boom in passenger numbers during the pandemic – which climbed to 710 in 2019-2020. However, the year after this number fell down to 210, the worst record since 2015/2016.

But back in its heyday, Pilning station was thriving, boasting its own stationmaster, fourteen signalmen, six signalmen/porters, six porters, two ‘lad’ porters and a tunnel inspector. It was commonly used by Brits as a means of getting to the Severn Tunnel Junction, providing an alternative to the Aust Ferry or a long detour through Gloucester.

However, when the Severn Road Bridge opened in 1966, the station’s popularity plummeted. By 1990, its service had been slashed to just one train each way daily, during daylight hours. In 2006, this was reduced to just one train each per week, on a Saturday.

“In 2016, a real body blow – our footbridge was demolished and not replaced, leaving us with just two trains a week in one direction and none at all in the other,” Pilning Station Group, which is campaigning for the station to be brought back to life, said. “Was that the final kiss of death? No way – since then, the station’s official usage figures have shot up by a staggering 900 per cent, and our campaign for a better service and a reinstated footbridge has been steadily gathering support and momentum.”

Campaigners argue even ‘minor improvements’ to the station could make it more attractive to potential users, such as a later Saturday afternoon train that would allow passengers more time in Bristol. “A Saturday lunchtime train would enable visitors and rail enthusiasts to visit Pilning for a drink and a pub lunch at the nearby Plough Inn and catch the later train back,” they said.

“An early-morning Monday-Friday train to Bristol would give people a fast route to work or college, as an alternative to the slow and circuitous Severn Beach branch which is very crowded in the mornings. Restoration of platform lighting (removed about 30 years ago as it was allegedly life-expired) would enable trains to call again after dark.”

The eerie station has recently gone viral on social media, where it has been branded the ‘loneliest station’ in the UK. “I live next to this station,” one TikToker said. “The locals have been campaigning for years to have it reopened as we have next to no public transport links.”

Many Brits said they were interested about the forgotten hub, with one user stating: “I’m curious to visit it now.” Another agreed, commenting: “I would still go there,” while a third added: “Sounds like it needs a garden village built there as it has transport links.”

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The housing estate of Tlajomulco de Zúñiga has become a no-go area, with gang violence a regular feature of an abandoned project that is now crumbling into the ground

A big ‘no entry’ sign hangs ominously above the entrance to an abandoned town known as the ‘Mexican Chernobyl‘.

Unlike the Ukrainian town, which was evacuated following the nuclear meltdown of 1986, the housing estate of Tlajomulco de Zúñiga is not empty of almost all human life as a consequence of a futuristic energy solution gone wrong.

The housing complex was built with the people of the Guadalajara district in mind, designed to provide safe, spacious homes for families there. According to data from the National Institute of Statistics and Geography, there are 70,000 homes in Tlajomulco. Just 12 years after they were built, all of them are empty.

It takes a brave soul to visit the abandoned town. The unfinished buildings tower ominously over the empty streets. Many have no windows and have been battered by the elements. Plants have broken through the cracks in the brickwork, upon which graffiti has been slapped.

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Inside some, there are hundreds of scratches on the wall. In others, food and clothing have been scattered on the floor. The properties are occasionally frequented by homeless people looking for shelter for the night, although they have a long 20-mile journey from the bustling centre of Guadalajara over swaying fields of grass that seem to hold in the silence of the eerie settlement.

The area is under the control of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), reports Info Bae, meaning the YouTubers, media outlets and tourists who venture to the housing complex for a poke around do so at no small risk to themselves.

In the last six years, the area has become a go-to place for those looking to get rid of a body. Officials found 54 bodies in clandestine graves in the area in December 2019, and a further 110 in July 2020, reports La Jornada.

Next to the unfinished buildings are apartment blocks that stand over them, both a legacy of the construction company that went bust in 2014. The Mexican Army set up one of its bases in one of these apartment towers.

Mexico has a huge number of abandoned homes, with some estimates putting the total nationwide into the millions. As in the case of Tlajomulco de Zúñiga, housing estates are built on the outskirts of urban centres specifically for working people and their families.

During periods of wage stagnation and inflation, many have defaulted on unfavourable mortgages. At the same time, construction firms, including the one responsible for Tlajomulco de Zúñiga, have struggled to complete ambitious jobs. Some of the homes in Tlajomulco de Zúñiga are finished and ready for habitation, while other sections consist of half-built shells.

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Some families still live in the housing complex, but it is a far cry from the brief period when a majority of the buildings were occupied. The remaining few live under a cloud of fear. “Those who stayed are living under a self-imposed curfew. At 6pm no one leaves their homes, and outside, only the wind and criminals roam the streets,” La Jornada adds.

Guillermina Sánchez is one of the limited number still living in estate, along with her husband. She adheres to the 6pm curfew after her partner was badly beaten while leaving their home, NMas reports.

“It gets really ugly out there,” she said.