As summer heats up alongside the exhausting news cycle, it’s crucial to find ways to unplug and wind down. Golden Hour in the newly renovated sculpture garden at the Norton Simon Museum is just the thing. Taking place tonight (Friday), and on two more Fridays this season (July 31 and Aug. 28), the event lasts from 4:30-6:30 p.m. and features a different musical group each time.
Tonight is the Verbena Quartet; a North Indian ensemble and a jazz trio are upcoming.
The fun is free with museum admission, and guests are encouraged to bring blankets to relax in the grass. I took my family of four to a recent event and it proved to be the rare occurrence when both the 10-year-old and the 17-year-old were happy. The museum provides all kinds of great art supplies on a big table by the entrance, including sketch paper, clipboards, colored pencils and charcoal drawing utensils.
There are also sheets of paper encouraging creative ways to approach drawing various sculptures in the garden, alongside a family-friendly Golden Hour bingo card with squares including “Spot something framed by tree branches” and “Look at the space between two objects.”
I did some drawing with my toes in the grass while my kiddos curved their necks over their own mini masterpieces. My husband read a book. The sun slanted low as the afternoon melted into early evening, casting lovely shadows on the families, couples, friend groups and solitary artists scattered around the garden sipping wine and snacking on cheese and crackers from the nearby cafe.
When we had our fill of relaxing, we ambled into the museum. My daughter wanted to gaze at the Picassos and the Van Goghs. As did I. I never don’t cry when I look at “The Mulberry Tree.”
“Can you imagine what he was thinking?” I asked my 10-year-old as we regarded the painting. “The pain and the beauty of it?”
She nodded sagely, gently smoothing her thumb against her own recent drawing, her deep inner world a mystery to me. The beauty and the pain of it. I was glad we had cuddled together in the late afternoon sunshine.
I’m arts editor Jessica Gelt, wishing you and your loved ones peace. This is your arts and culture news for the week.
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The week ahead: A curated calendar
FRIDAY
Antigone The Bebelos Players present a back-to-basics production of Sophocles’ classic drama about a young woman who defies a king to honor her dead brother. 7 p.m. Friday-Sunday. Theosophy Hall, 245 W. 33rd St. eventbrite.com
“Horse,” by Rick Bartow, 2014, wood, tar, wax, false teeth, nails. 56 x 42 x 12 in.
(Yubo Dong, ofstudio)
Rick Bartow Last chance to catch “All of these things have happened,” an exhibition of works on paper by the late Native American artist that touch on tragedies from throughout his life, as well as “Horse,” a 2014 sculpture covered in tar, wax, false teeth and nails that is “a study of sustained resilience.” Noon-5 p.m. Friday-Sunday, Wednesday and Thursday (last day). Timothy Hawkinson Gallery, 7424 Beverly Blvd. timothyhawkinsongallery.com
Spencer Finch “Balboa of House and Garden,” composed entirely of new work, is the artist’s first exhibition in Los Angeles. The show includes more than 50 unique works on paper, a site-specific skylight installation and a monumental outdoor sculpture. Finch’s “Memory Landscape (Nairobi, Chicago, Honolulu, Jakarta),” 2025, a commissioned tile wall mural inspired by places from President Barack Obama’s formative years, was recently installed at the Obama Presidential Center in Chicago. Opening, 6-8 p.m. Friday; 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday, through Aug. 22. Lisson, 1037 N. Sycamore Ave. lissongallery.com
Bodo Mato The pseudonymous multidisciplinary artist uses a subconscious dreamworld to access a legendary lost city to find real-world parallels in the exhibition “Atlantis: Echoes of Hubris.” Opening reception, 6-10 p.m. Friday. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday-Tuesday. 7811 Gallery (West), 7813 Melrose Ave. 7811gallery.com
Raymond Saunders, “Layers of Being,” 1985. Mixed media on canvas, 81 x 59 15/16 x 1 in.
Raymond Saunders “Flowers From a Black Garden” is a career-spanning look at the painter (1934-2025) as he moved from Dada, expressionism and assemblage to Fluxus, Pop and postmodernism, beginning in the 1960s. 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Wednesday-Sunday, through Jan. 3. UC Irvine Langson Orange County Museum of Art, Segerstrom Center for the Arts, 3333 Avenue of the Arts, Costa Mesa. langson.uci.edu
SATURDAY
Chrysalis prototypes deployed in Joshua Tree, 1970, reproduction.
(Chrysalis Corporation)
Alternative Palm Springs: Other Desert Architectures In some parallel reality there may exist a Coachella Valley unlike anything you’ve ever imagined. In lieu of that, this exhibition shares the unbuilt visions of prominent architects, off-grid designs of the counterculture, and private and public worlds created by the LGBTQ+ during the 20th century, yielding an expanded view of the area’s architectural ambitions. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday-Sunday; noon-8 p.m. Thursday; through Jan. 4; closed June 26 and July 4. Architecture and Design Center, Edwards Harris Pavilion, 300 S. Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs. psmuseum.org
Declarations of Independence Gay Men’s Chorus of Los Angeles and guest artist Justin Tranter celebrate national and individual freedom and pride for America’s 250th anniversary. 7 p.m. Saturday; 3:30 p.m. Sunday. Saban Theatre, 8440 Wilshire Blvd., Beverly Hills. gmcla.org/declarations
A Great Night in Hip-Hop The Roots return for their third year at the Bowl, joined by Nas, with appearances from T.I., Bun B, De La Soul and more. 7:30 p.m. Hollywood Bowl, 2301 N Highland Ave. hollywoodbowl.com
Rota Fortunae A one-night-only experimental opera featuring Jordan Slaffey reimagines the four women of the 1996 crime thriller “Set It Off” using movement, live music and fashion. Directed by Chris Emile, music by composer and DJ Cody Perkins and designs by James Flemons. 7:30 p.m. Indoor Swap Meet, 128 S. La Brea Ave., Inglewood. eventbrite.com
Peter Stampfel An innovator of anti-folk, freak-folk and psych-folk, the 87-year-old co-founder of the Holy Modal Rounders makes a rare West Coast appearance. 8 p.m. McCabe’s Guitar Shop, 3101 Pico Blvd., Santa Monica. mccabes.com
THURSDAY
Ojai Film Society Summer Screening Series Annual presentation of independent, foreign, documentary, critically acclaimed and classic films kicks off Thursday with Taika Waititi’s 2016 adventure comedy “Hunt for the Wilderpeople,” starring Sam Neill. Other screenings: “Selena Y Los Dinos” (July 10); “Cookie Queens” (July 17); “Best in Show” (July 24); “Arrival” (Aug. 20); and “Jurassic Park” (Aug. 27). 7:30 p.m. Thursday; various dates through Aug. 27. Libbey Bowl, 210 S. Signal St., Ojai. ojaifilmsociety.org
Tank and the Bangas The Grammy-winning New Orleans music group shares its signature blend of funk, soul, hip-hop, rock and spoken word. Featuring an opening set by Butter Funk Family and DJ sets by Tosstones. 7 p.m. Skirball Cultural Center, 2701 N. Sepulveda Blvd. skirball.org
Arts anywhere
Meryl Streep, from left, and Amanda Seyfried, Rachel McDowall and Ashley Lilley in the 2008 movie version of “Mamma Mia!”
(Peter Mountain / Universal Pictures)
Broadway unbound
Two of the biggest hit musicals ever are in town simultaneously starting this week — “Mamma Mia!” is at the Ahmanson through July 19 and “Phantom of the Opera” plays the Hollywood Pantages through Aug. 9. If you want to bone up beforehand or relive the hits after you’ve been to the theater, the cinematic adaptations of both are widely available. The 2008 movie version of “Mamma Mia!” starring Meryl Streep and Amanda Seyfried streams on Prime through the end of June and the 2004 “Phantom” with Gerard Butler and Emmy Rossum is streaming on Prime and Apple TV. Both films are available to rent or buy on various platforms and, if you’re into physical media, relatively inexpensive Blu-ray and DVD versions can be had online. Public libraries are also great resources for arts-related content.
— Kevin Crust
Culture news and the SoCal scene
Passengers wait to board the first train to arrive at the Metro D Line at the Wilshire/Fairfax Station in Los Angeles on May 8, 2026.
(Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times)
With the new Metro D Line subway extension up-and-running with new stations at Wilshire/La Brea, Wilshire/Fairfax and Wilshire/La Cienega, we asked architecture writer Sam Lubell to take an aesthetic look at these new displays of public art. “Suddenly the city feels different. Not transformed, exactly. But more connected,” wrote Lubell. “The fracturing grip of the city’s incomprehensible expanses, clogged arteries and stagnant governance — all intimidating barriers to healthy civic life — feels a little looser. … The stations, too, feel more connected, with art, architecture and infrastructure blending seamlessly into a cohesive experience … But above ground, it’s a tale of two (transit) cities. Outdoor plazas lack the kind of textured civic presence that’s been created below.”
The Hollywood Bowl opened its summer season with a lavish production, “The Best of Broadway,” starring Lea Salonga, Brian Stokes Mitchell, Darren Criss, Renée Elise Goldsberry and Halle Bailey, and hosted by Billy Crystal. The program including a selection of Broadway tunes old and new, was delivered with flair to an appreciative audience. “I had a lovely time,” reports Times theater critic Charles McNulty, “but I can’t say the concert lived up to its title. Not that impressive virtuosity wasn’t on display, but Broadway is truly at its best when musical numbers are embedded in a story, allowing the performers to feed off each other and reach heights that they might not be able to reach on their own. Too much of the bill required the actors to stand and deliver, ‘American Idol’-style. It was a little unfair to place such a heavy burden on them.”
McNulty also reviewed the Geffen Playhouse’s Los Angeles premiere of Pearl Cleage’s “Angry, Raucous, and Shamelessly Gorgeous,” about an American expat actor angling for her big comeback. The play, wrote McNulty, “is hamstrung with exposition. More time is devoted to setting up the dramatic situation than to activating it. … The intentions are noble and the themes are handled with admirable complexity, but the writing is sluggish. The plot is like an old car whose engine just refuses to start on a cold winter morning.”
After 20 years as LA Opera Music Director James Conlon will step down.
(Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times)
The final show of L.A. Opera’s production “Marriage of Figaro” last Sunday also marked the end of James Conlon’s tenure at the podium as the organization’s music director. Stepping down after 20 years, Conlon spoke to Times classical music critic Mark Swed. “I love L.A. and I’m not going to leave,” said Conlon. “I am absolutely happy at this point in my life. You know my age is 76. It is not a secret. I wear it proudly. But I’ve been a music director for 47 years, and I don’t want to be a music director any longer. I will still conduct.” Will he return regularly to L.A. Opera? “That’s the theory,” he said
Another maestro who can’t quit L.A. is Esa-Pekka Salonen. Last weekend, the beloved composer and conductor, who is back with the L.A. Phil as creative director, returned to the Ojai Music Festival after a quarter-century absence. “Salonen found renewal not from the desperation of rethinking but from freshening, illuminating the perception of exceptional young musicians first encountering greatness,” wrote Swed in his review of the four days. “In these uncertain times, that may be the most remarkable act of artistic optimism.”
Spanish artist Nieves Gonzalez stands next to one of her paintings that is part of her solo show at the Richard Heller Gallery at Bergamot Station in Santa Monica on June 18, 2026.
(Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times)
Not yet 30, Spanish painter Nieves González is a burgeoning international art star with an exhibition at Richard Heller Gallery in Santa Monica. “Fashion inspires me,” she told writer Jane Horowitz in a recent interview. “Just as 17th century artists drew inspiration from the fashion of their day — often creating paintings that served as catalogs of current styles — I do the same. The goal is to not merely convey a specific message or ideology but to create a testament to a generation and the era in which we live.”
“California Gothic: A Bus Tour,” an avant-garde sightseeing event organized by the New Theater Hollywood, turns Tinseltown “into a stage, drawing locals for a mash-up of state history, gothic storytelling and public-intellectual riffing on the broken California dream,” wrote Times staff writer Eloise Rollins-Fife. The tour ended its latest run in mid-June, but will reopen during the last week of October for a special “ghost tour” edition.
Times columnist Patt Morrison reported from the City of Lights on Paris-born street artist JR’s “La Caverne du Pont Neuf,” which she describes as “an enormous art installation, a trompe l’oeil inflatable snow-clad mountain range … an homage to the innovative work of groundbreaking environmental artists Christo and Jeanne-Claude.” The work uses about 200,000 square feet of printed fabric on the city’s oldest bridge to create the illusion and the artist told Morrison, “Your eye wants to believe it, and for a moment you let yourself. That gap between knowing and believing is where the play happens, and people love being inside that gap.”
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Stewart McLaurin, president of the White House Historical Assn., displays a newly-acquired suite of four interrelated paintings by Norman Rockwell titled, “So You Want to See the President!” at the association’s offices Wednesday, June 10, 2026, in Washington.
(John McDonnell / Associated Press)
In the 1940s, Norman Rockwell spent time in the visitor’s lobby of the White House sketching U.S. senators, members of the military, the press and a Miss America as they awaited entry into the Oval Office to see President Franklin D. Roosevelt. Eight decades later, four of the sketches have been acquired by the White House Historical Assn. for $7 million, according to the Associated Press. Titled “So You Want to See the President!” the sketches will be on public display through June 2027 at the historical association’s “The People’s House” education center near the White House.
It was a busy week for announcing some of this fall and winter’s Broadway openings. Lincoln Center Theater’s Vivian Beaumont will host a revival of Aaron Sorkin’s “A Few Good Men,” starring Bradley Whitford and Tom Blyth, directed by six-time Tony winner Michael Arlen, starting Oct. 8. In March 2027, LCT Artistic Director Lear deBessonet will helm a new production of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s “The Sound of Music,” for its first Broadway run in nearly 30 years. A revival of Richard Greenberg’s “Three Days of Rain” lands in February 2027 at a Shubert Organization-owned theater to be announced with Anna D. Shapiro directing. The cast will include “Heated Rivalry’s” François Arnaud and David Corenswet of “Superman” in their Broadway debuts, joined by Yvonne Strahovski of “The Handmaid’s Tale.” The play was previously on Broadway in 2006 with Julia Roberts, Bradley Cooper and Paul Rudd. Walter Hill’s 1979 gang saga “The Warriors” will make the leap from screen to stage as a musical, with a book, music and lyrics by Lin-Manuel Miranda and Eisa Davis. Previews begin at Broadway’s Lunt-Fontanne Theatre in March 2027 with an opening slated for April. Jenny Koons will direct.
NEW YORK — A 51-year-old man fell to his death from an upper deck of Madison Square Garden during a rock concert Saturday night, police said.
Officers responding to a 911 call around 9:51 p.m. found the man unconscious and unresponsive with injuries indicating a fall from an “elevated position,” New York City police said. Police did not say how far the man fell, but said he was in Section 300. They declined to release his name.
The man was with his wife, according to police. He was taken to a hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
The rock band Goose was performing. In a statement on Facebook, the band said it was “deeply saddened and heartbroken to learn of the tragic event that occurred.”
NEW YORK — Donald Trump is set to be the first sitting U.S. president to attend an NBA Finals game, bringing strict security measures that will require New York Knicks fans to navigate an extensive safety perimeter around Madison Square Garden and an expected lengthy wait to get inside the building.
The security for Game 3 between the Knicks and San Antonio Spurs and the scene around the arena more closely resembled New Year’s Eve in Times Square, and for fans, it might seem more akin to a trip to the airport. They were asked to get to the game two hours early and will be required to provide a ticket to get past various checkpoints along with passing through a TSA-style magnetometer.
Trump’s appearance led the New York Police Department and Secret Service to establish a multi-block security perimeter around the arena, cancel a watch party outside and institute a no-bag policy for ticket-holders. Fans had gathered around the Garden to watch games during this playoff run, during which the Knicks have won 13 games in a row to reach the final for the first time since 1999 and move two victories from their first NBA title since 1973.
“The NYPD in coordination with the Secret Service made the decision for Game 3, where we have a presidential visit, that we could not support watch parties right outside of the Garden,” Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch said at a news conference Monday. “We are looking forward to bringing back watch parties for Game 4. But I think New Yorkers are used to presidents coming to town, and they understand that that generally means lockdowns of areas and that’s what you’re going to see tonight at the Garden.”
Trump has attended several major sporting events in his time as president, and the security measures have created major hassles for fans.
Thousands of fans missed the start of last year’s U.S. Open men’s singles final between Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner because of lengthy security lines. Even though the U.S. Tennis Association pushed back the start of the match by a half-hour, many fans still couldn’t get in because added measures meant that they had to go through screening not only when they arrived at the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center but again in front of the steps into Arthur Ashe Stadium, where Trump watched from a suite.
Asked his thoughts on Trump attending, Knicks center Mitchell Robinson said: “Cool, I guess. We can still get out there and play (no matter) who’s here and who’s not.”
Mayor Zohran Mamdani and other dignitaries are also expected to be at the game Monday night.
It was already hard enough for Knicks fans to get inside Madison Square Garden because of astronomical ticket prices. The get-in price for a ticket is higher than the average cost of monthly rent in New York, surging over $6,000. The best seats are tens of thousands of dollars. Mamdani said he bought his ticket for about $1,000 directly from Madison Square Garden.
The difficulty of seeing the game in-person has prompted fans to crowd bars, streets and watch parties all over the city. The watch party near the Garden has become a major event all through the playoffs, but with Trump attending, that event will be moved a few blocks away outside the security perimeter, at Bryant Park.
“We improvise,” said Knicks guard Jose Alvarado, who is a New York native. “We’re New Yorkers. We’re going to find a way to watch a game, and that’s what we’re doing.”
Whyno writes for the Associated Press. AP writer Brian Mahoney contributed to this report.
A BRAND new Wetherspoons has opened up right by the beach – and it is part of an affordable UK holiday park.
The Bluff Inn opened in April at Haven’s Riviere Sands holiday park in Hayle, Cornwall.
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A recently opened Wetherspoons is being raved about for its viewsCredit: Wetherspoons
The new pub – which is a part of a £9million investment to open a number of Wetherspoons pubs across the country at Haven parks – is named after its cliff location.
The best thing about the new venue? It has amazing views of the beach and sea.
The pub is able to host up to 380 people and is open until midnight in the summer months and closes an hour earlier in the spring and winter months.
Decor includes a typical Spoons patterned carpet, which is be inspired by Hayle Estuary, the town’s industrial history and the Cornish coastline.
And outside, there is even a pub garden with picnic benches in case you want to enjoy your drink while soaking up the sunshine.
Punters will be able to get their usual spoons order such as cheap pints or cocktail pitchers.
The beer garden is right by the beachCredit: WetherspoonsThe pub is part of the Haven holiday park nearbyCredit: Wetherspoons
As for food, options range from breakfast in the mornings to staple Spoons’ comfort dishes such as fish and chips.
After having a tipple and some food, you can head down to Bluff Beach – known as one of Cornwall’s best kitesurfing spots.
One visitor wrote on Tripadvisor: “Absolutely amazing views of St Ives Bay and will be amazing in the summer with their large beer garden overlooking the sea.
“As a local will definitely returning many times.”
Darren Hiscock,General Manager, Haven Riviere Sands said: “This is a fantastic addition to Riviere Sands Holiday Park and something we know our guests and owners have been eagerly anticipating.
“We’re thrilled to kick off the season by opening the doors to our brand new pub.”
Sometimes there’s no need to hop on a plane when you have the picture-postcard landscapes of the UK, and during a stay at a charming UK hotel, I was whisked away to Italy in a secluded oasis
10:08, 22 May 2026Updated 13:46, 22 May 2026
I stayed in The Killingworth Castle, and it felt like a home away from home (Image: The Killingworth Castle)
A beautiful hotel and pub, with only eight bedrooms, felt as though I was somewhere else entirely, not least the rolling UK countryside.
In the heart of the Oxfordshire countryside, encircled by picturesque towns and quaint villages, is The Killingworth Castle, an historic pub with numerous culinary recognitions and eight luxurious bedrooms. Its idyllic grounds with honey-coloured stone buildings and pristine gardens filled with seasonal flowers were enough to transport me to scenes in Italy, as I blissfully settled into what felt like a home away from home.
Set against its beautiful green terrace and peaceful grounds, overlooking traditional stone buildings, proved the perfect spot to enjoy a drink outside on one of the inn’s many inviting benches. Certainly an oasis during the summer months, it’s easy to see why The Killingworth Castle has been recognised as having one of the best pub gardens in the UK, by Enjoy Travel.
Nestled in Wootton, the hotel affectionately dubbed ‘The Killy’, is perfectly positioned as a gateway to explore the Cotswolds and is just a 30-minute drive from the historic city of Oxford. Its location is an undeniable draw with access to some of the most beautiful parts of the UK, like Burford, Bourton-on-the-Water and Bibury, but the charming town of Woodstock, just a stone’s throw away, also warrants a visit and is home to the iconic Blenheim Palace.
The Killingworth Castle is run by husband and wife Jim and Claire Alexander, who are at the heart of the operation. From the moment I arrived, I felt at home, with a warm welcome from their dedicated staff, the inviting blend of farmhouse charm and boutique-hotel comfort, and a scenic setting that felt like I was living my Italian dream, albeit in the heart of the Great British countryside.
When I wasn’t exploring the Cotswolds or Oxfordshire, ‘The Killy’ was the perfect oasis for a quintessential country retreat, and while it may be small, it proved even more reason to stay.
Bespoke luxury rooms
I checked into one of their eight luxurious rooms in the stable block, which felt as though it was tucked inside a storybook house, with exposed beams, exposed brick and slanted walls. It felt like my very own hidden retreat.
There was a grand, rustic oak four-poster bed adorned with a quilted throw, a stylish seating area of leather chairs and courtyard views, and a roll-top bath in a corner nook beneath a skylight that blissfully welcomed the tapping of spring rain.
While there were all the usual amenities for a comfy stay, every room also welcomes the addition of complimentary English sherry on arrival – definitely a perk for those pre-dinner drinks or evening nightcaps. All the rooms are individually designed with handpicked rustic antique furniture, and my delightful stay in room eight offered a blend of old-world architecture with bespoke luxury.
Tasty delights
Once I had settled in my room, which took no time at all, I strolled over to the main building with the pub. There’s a bar selling local beers on top, alongside a cosy area with darts and a pool table, armchairs snuggled around a log burner and the main dining room, with a timeless countryside ambience, vaulted timber ceilings, exposed stone walls, and framed photos.
The pub offers an à la carte menu, a set lunch, a Sunday menu, or a tasting menu under the helm of head chef Rob Mason, and has garnered prestigious acknowledgement for its offerings. The Killingworth Castle has been continuously recommended in the Michelin Guide, awarded their third AA Rosette, and has been featured in the UK’s Top 50 Gastropubs list for 2026.
It’s safe to say that before I had even browsed the menu, I was excited for what I was going to taste as an avid foodie. So I opted for the tasting menu, partly so I could savour as many flavours as possible, but really, once I saw the menu, it was hard to resist.
I was treated to a plethora of mouthwatering flavours that were as much a feast for the eyes as they were for my taste buds! Even the treacle bread was an exceptional start, presented on a bed of wheat and barley.
I went on to devour the delicate flavours of Evesham asparagus, gribiche sauce, cracklebean egg yolk and sourdough with a welcoming burst of wild garlic, before tasting the roasted hand-dived scallop, pork jowl, apple and cider butter sauce, which really was a tantalising combination.
Yet my favourite course was the wild sea bass Grenobloise, with brown butter sauce, capers, lemon, and parsley. The last savoury course of the menu was the succulent Cotswold lamb, braised neck, peas, broad beans, goat’s cured and malt vinegar, that melted in the mouth.
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Just when I thought I hadn’t been spoiled enough, I was given my first sweet course of vanilla and rhubard, which proved the perfect palate cleanser, before a delight of chocolate delice, Hukambi milk chocolate, hazelnut, and Cruz del Mar raisins. It was certainly a journey of flavours I won’t forget in a hurry.
The tasting menu at The Killingworth Castle is £95 per guest, with the option to add a wine flight for an additional £55 per person. Otherwise, guests can enjoy a three-course meal from the à la carte menu for £65 per person.
The charm of ‘The Killy’
The food at breakfast was just as exceptional, with the brightest orange egg yolks I’ve ever been lucky enough to consume on my eggs Benedict, with a side of bacon. And the benefit of the hotel only bearing eight rooms was certainly felt at breakfast. There was no morning rush in which you’re left fighting for the last slice of pineapple or queuing for 15 minutes to get your hands on a fresh omelet.
Instead, my day began with a warm welcome from owner Jim, a warming cup of coffee, and the gentle hum of fellow guests against the inviting, traditional charm of ‘The Killy’. I could have easily stayed for longer as I melted into my surroundings.
Rooms at The Killingworth Castle start from £169 per night during the week, and from £205 during the weekend, with breakfast included in each rate. For more information or to book your country escape, visit The Killingworth Castle website.
May 15 (UPI) — President Donald Trump said Friday that wants to build the National Garden of American Heroes, an exhibit of statues in West Potomac Park in Washington, D.C.
Trump posted on social media that the public space would include landscaping and statues of the founding fathers, military soldiers, religious leaders, civil rights figures, athletes, artists and entertainers.
“This magnificent exhibition of statues will be located in West Potomac Park, which we are transforming into one of the World’s most beautiful public spaces,” Trump posted. “Right now, it is a totally BARREN field of Prime Waterfront Real Estate along our Mighty Potomac River.”
The project is the latest of Trump’s announcements to mark the United States’ 250th anniversary. He has said he wants 250 statues included in the garden.
Trump has ordered other projects in Washington, D.C., including renovation of the East Wing of the White House and repainting the basin of the Lincoln Memorial reflecting pool. These projects have drawn criticism over Trump exerting unilateral authority to put them in motion, bypassing congressional approval.
The White House has not clarified whether it will seek congressional approval for the statue garden.
The National Capital Planning Commission and Commission of Fine Arts are typically involved in reviewing projects like this in Washington, D.C.
The newly formed National Garden of American Heroes Foundation is fundraising for the garden project.
Vice President JD Vance speaks during a news conference on anti-fraud initiatives in the Indian Treaty Room of the Eisenhower Executive Office Building at the White House on Wednesday. Photo by Daniel Heuer/UPI | License Photo
1 of 5 | President Donald Trump delivers remarks at an event for Gold Star Mothers and Angel Mothers to honor Mother’s Day, which is this Sunday, in the Rose Garden of the White House on Friday. Photo by Aaron Schwartz/UPI | License Photo
May 8 (UPI) — President Donald Trump on Friday delivered a Mother’s Day address as he hosted Gold Star Mothers and Angel Mothers in the White House Rose Garden.
Starting with his own mother, Trump thanked mothers across the country in a 20-minute speech that included specific thanks for mothers in the audience and those who work for his administration.
“I want to thank every single mother here this afternoon and all across our nation for your work,” Trump said.
“Every single day, America’s moms are raising — really — raising the future of our country … You have the most important job there is in America or any place else, and you’re doing an incredible job,” he said.
During the speech, Trump honored the mothers of children who died in crimes linked to illegal immigrants, whom he has dubbed Angel Mothers, noting that he hoped to prevent their ranks from growing due to “open borders” and what his administration has in pursuit of that goal.
The president honored Gold Star Mothers — the mothers of members of the military who have been killed in action — some of whom in attendance lost children during the war in Afghanistan.
Questioning whether “time heals all wounds,” Trump said that “our hearts are out to you on Mother’s Day.”
He also spoke about legislative and executive actions his administration has meant to benefit mothers and families.
“We’re honored to be joined by many strong and truly heroic moms who have stood up for their children,” he said, wishing them a Mother’s Day “filled with love and gratitude and joy.”
President Donald Trump delivers remarks at an event he is hosting for a group that includes Gold Star Mothers and Angel Mothers in honor of Mother’s Day in the Rose Garden of the White House on Friday. Photo by Aaron Schwartz/UPI | License Photo
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Peonies are now in their prime across the UK(Image: Anna Blazhuk via Getty Images)
Lasting just eight brief weeks, the peony season is one of the most breath-taking but brief highlights of the spring diary.
This year, it’s arriving at an ideal moment, as sunnier spells begin. Bloom and Wild has identified excellent viewing spots throughout the UK where visitors can admire the stunning pink peonies in full bloom.
Peonies hold special status as a national favourite during springtime, with the flower specialists noting that people purchase them for personal enjoyment twice as frequently as any other bloom.
Penshurst Place and Gardens, Kent
Boasting one of Britain’s most spectacular peony exhibitions, this features a 100-metre-long border brimming with delicate pinks, whites and classic varieties such as Sarah Bernhardt, creating a romantic backdrop perfectly suited to a spring stroll.
The peonies generally flower from late May through to early June, though enthusiasts and Kent locals can register for Penshurst’s ‘peony alert list’ to receive notifications tracking the border’s development, informing them when early blooms appear and when peak flowering approaches.
Sir Harold Hillier Gardens, Hampshire
Home to an impressive peony border created in partnership with Kelways Nursery, featuring approximately 70 varieties displayed as a chronological journey from early cultivars to contemporary hybrids. Visitors can explore everything from traditional herbaceous and tree peonies to numerous other varieties, celebrated for blending the finest characteristics of both in a striking array of colours.
Spetchley Park Gardens, Worcestershire
Boasting one of Britain’s largest private peony collections, these gardens offer something slightly less manicured and more evocative. Expect expansive displays, flowering trees and an air of tranquil enchantment, with specimens originally gathered by renowned horticulturists, including Ernest Wilson.
University of Bristol Botanic Garden, Bristol
A hidden treasure for late spring flowering, providing a more secluded, intimate atmosphere. Within the Chinese Herb Garden, a dedicated peony showcase merges botanical importance with the aesthetic of traditional Suzhou gardens.
Cambridge University Botanic Garden, Cambridge
Recognised for its varied and historic plant collections, including notable varieties such as Paeonia suffruticosa. A tranquil location to observe blooms closely in a more carefully arranged environment.
Sheffield Botanical Gardens, Sheffield
A northern gem for seasonal displays, where the Three Island Beds transform beautifully throughout spring and summer. Early bulbs transition to blush-hued peonies, alongside poppies, roses and geraniums, before late-season textures emerge.
HAMPTON Court Palace has everything families need for a fun day out and it’s all within the grounds of an enormous former royal home.
From seeing inside the historic building itself to the pretty gardens, a kids’ playground and there’s even a comic-book themed takeover this summer.
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The playground and trail is on the grounds of Hampton Court PalaceCredit: AlamyDuring the summer kids will be able to have a go at the Beano trailCredit: Hampton Court Palace
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When you’re at a loss with how to keep the kids entertained over the weekend, or the next warm day during the week – head to Hampton Court Palace in London.
Kids in particular will love its enormous playground called the Magic Garden.
It’s aimed at children under 12 and has so much to keep them entertained from climbing up the huge towers to even facing a ‘dragon’.
There’s a secret grotto with hidden pathways, plenty of slides and a sandpit, while a nearby cafe is the best spot to stop for hot drinks and snacks.
Another popular spot is the maze – which is the oldest surviving hedge maze in the country.
It covers a third of an acre on the grounds of Hampton Court Palace with plenty of twists and turns throughout.
And this summer, a new Beano-themed trail is set to launch.
From July 25 to August 23, kids will be able to see some of their favourite characters like Dennis the Menace and Gnasher.
More information about the trail says “Dennis, Minnie, Harsha, Rubi and Gnasher were late for their Bash Street School trip to Henry VIII’s palace.
“To save the day, Dennis has turned his go-kart into a time machine with Rubi’s flux capacitor – but “whoops”! it has malfunctioned and crash-landed in Hampton Court Palace.
“Now the timeline’s in a right royal muddle and Henry VIII is not amused. It’s utter chaos! It’s up to YOU to help the Beano friends fix their busted time machine.
“Grab your special Hampton Court Palace Beano comic strip story on arrival, packed with clues to track down the missing pieces scattered around the palace.”
There will even be some historic residents like Henry VIII and Elizabeth I dressed in the classic Beano red and black stripes.
During May half-term kids can enjoy The Big Bahooey which has cabaret performances, world-class street theatre and circus workshops.
To step back in time, head back in July to watch knights take on a jousting tournament – families can pick a favourite and cheer them on until the winner is crowned.
The jousting is on during on the weekends of July 11-12 and July 18-19.
The palace has pruned gardens with pretty flower beds and pondsCredit: Getty
For more family fun, check out our favourite UK holiday parks…
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Park Holidays UK Sand le Mere, Yorkshire
This holiday park in Yorkshire is a thriving family resort, just steps from Tunstall Beach. Entertainment is what this resort does best, with costume character performances, Link-up Bingo and cabaret shows. Accommodation ranges from fully-equipped Gold Caravans to Platinum Lodges with sun decks and luxury bedding.
This beachfront resort in St Ives, Cornwall is a true beach bum’s paradise – whether you want to laze out on the sand, or take to the waves for some surfing. Activities include disc golf, a Nerf challenge and an outdoor cinema, as well as indoor activities for the colder months like karaoke, bingo and DJ sets.
This holiday park has loads of unique activities on offer, including TikTok dance classes, alpaca feeding, a pump track for BMX riding, and taking a ride on the resort’s very own miniature railway. Throw in bug hotel and den building, pond dipping, survival skills workshops and a lake for paddleboard and pedalo hire, and you’ve got yourself an action-packed park.
Parkdean Resorts Camber Sands, Sussex This beachfront resort is a classic family favourite. If you’re not up to swimming in the sea, there’s four fantastic pools here, as well as water flumes, underwater jets, inflatable jet skis and kayak races. Plus if you’ve got any little fans of Paw Patrol or Milkshake!, you’ll be glad to know there’s Milkshake! Mornings and Paw Patrol Mighty Missions to keep your tots entertained.
If you want to steer clear of chaotic cartoons, head to the Hampton Court Gardens for a more relaxing stroll.
The formal gardens are pruned to perfection with neat hedges, immaculate lawns, ponds and pretty flower beds – especially in the Rose Garden.
During particular days of the year, the gardens are open free of charge with no pre-booking required.
This year these are May 9-10, September 12-13, October 10-11, November 21-22, December 26 (Wilderness garden only).
Then of course there’s the palace itself, which was famously the home of Henry VIII and his six wives.
The former royal residence has appeared most recently on BridgertonCredit: Getty
For those who want to learn even more about Hampton Court Palace, a free audio guide is included in the price of admission.
The tour explores the highlights when it was lived in by Henry VIII and even how the palace has appeared on the back-drop of TV and film since the 1920s.
More recently it was used in Bridgerton as the home of Queen Charlotte, and the gardens are frequently used when characters are strolling around London.
It’s also appeared in Wolf Hall: The Mirror and the Light, My Lady Jane, The Favourite starring Olivia Coleman, and Lily James‘ Cinderella.
A landlord fascinated by the space and the sky set up an observatory – in the back garden of his pub.
Alan Boddington, 67, first took interest in the space when looking at the moon with his uncle using a brass telescope on top of a coalbunker.
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The country pub has an observatory in its gardenCredit: SWNSPub landlord Alan Boddington of the Poltimore Inn, Devon, is fascinated with spaceCredit: SWNSHis fascination was further sparked when watching Neil Armstrong landed on the moon in 1969Credit: SWNS
His fascination was further sparked when watching Neil Armstrong landing on the moon in 1969 during the Apollo 11 mission.
When he took over The Poltimore Inn, he saw an opportunity to build an observatory in back garden of the pub.
Located in the village of North Malton, Devon, the pub is on the edge of Exmoor National Park – Europe’s first ever dark sky reserve.
Minimal light pollution and cloudless nights mean thousands of stars and astronomical sights such as the Milky Way can be spotted.
He said: “When a cloud comes over it means you can pop into the pub, have a pint and maybe sit by the fire to warm up.
“Once the sky clears you can come out with your pint and appreciate the dark sky.
“Takes a little while for your eyes to adjust but we have got red lighting all the way down to the observatory.
“It’s an unusual thing to have a pub with an observatory but also with our accommodation we can give people the opportunity to look at the Dark Sky.
Mr Boddington bought the Poltimore Inn in October 2012 from a large pub chain.
With his “long term” love for space he saw a potential to create an observatory outside the pub.
Five years ago he set up with observatory and it was funded by himself.
The telescopes costed around £10,500 and the building which was self-built was £27,000.
On a cloudless night it is possible to see the milky way, thousands of stars and astronomical sights from the Exmoor National Park.
He said: “I was introduced to the moon as a 9-year-old when my uncle brought over his telescope and set it up for me to have a look at the moon.
“The moon project Apollo went off and it was one of those things that your parents let you stay up for.
“I still have a lot of the newspaper cuttings.
“When it came to setting up the pub I thought it would be the ideal opportunity for me, with the Exmoor Dark Sky, to take advantage and also enjoy my hobby.”
Within the observatory, there is a permanently Polar and star aligned Meade LX200 12-inch telescope and a new era “smart” telescope in the Unistellar Ev-Scope.
There are also numerous other manual telescopes and Skywatcher Dobsonians for beginners.
It features an electronic roll off roof, a private outdoor decking observation area, as well as private amenities, plus tea and coffee making facilities.
He continued: “This has been a great boost to go from being youngster to seeing the Apollo to seeing this venture Artemis going off and going looping round the moon is amazing.
“Also the technology that is gone with it – we are going to be looking at tremendous pictures for the next six months as they are released.
“The Darkside of the Moon is something that we don’t generally see and I think we will have a lot of surprises from that.
“Also the eclipses will show us different details. We are really pleased to see the astronauts coming back safely and leave safely.
“I hope it really stimulates the whole space idea in Europe, in England and with the scientists in this country.”
The building of the Poltimore Inn Observatory helps him share his passion for astronomy and space exploration.
The Poltimore Inn Observatory holds regular monthly events run by astronomers Jo and Pete Richardson.
The primary school in North Malton also visits the observatory as part of their education.
He hopes his observatory keeps inspiring both young and old about the space and the sky.
To get to know more about The Poltimore Inn visit their website here.
