gems

UK’s ‘most magical street’ is real-life Diagon Alley with quirky shops and hidden gems

The Shambles in York is a magical spot, particularly when the nights draw in and the Christmas lights get switched on. Many of the structures lining the street today trace their origins back to the late 14th century.

A street in one of Britain’s oldest cities, York, is a captivating spot brimming with unique shops, cosy pubs, and lively bars.

The Shambles, as it’s affectionately known, is a labyrinth of winding, narrow lanes nestled in the heart of North Yorkshire. It transforms into a magical place when the nights grow longer and the Christmas lights twinkle.

At the middle of the area lies a lane actually named the Shambles, renowned as possibly the best-preserved medieval street globally, even earning a mention in the 1086 literary sensation, the Domesday Book.

Many of the structures lining the street today trace their origins back to the late 14th century. The name ‘Shambles’ is believed to have evolved from ‘Shammel’, an Anglo-Saxon term for the shelves that were once a common sight in the open shopfronts. While the ancient name and buildings persist, the purpose of most shops has evolved over time.

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The butchers who once busily chopped, skinned, and portioned meat here have long since departed. The only remnants of their trade are the meat hooks they used to display their goods on the shopfronts. Nowadays, the Shambles accommodates a variety of businesses. Still, its medieval overhanging buildings and tight alleyways remain intact, offering visitors a sense of stepping back in time.

During my university days, I spent three years in York, witnessing the Shambles transform with the changing seasons and times of day. At Christmas, the streets were bustling with eager shoppers seeking a bargain and a warm pastry to ward off the cold.

During this bustling period, it might be wise to head to one of the quieter yet equally enchanting streets on the other side of town until the crowds thin out in the evening.

In the summer, the Shambles are filled with the sound of busking students, hen parties, and day-trippers there to sample some of York’s pubs. Whether the widely circulated claim that the city has a pub for every day of the year is indeed true takes far longer than a day, a long weekend, or even a three-year degree to verify.

This is largely because you’ll likely find yourself repeatedly visiting the superb House of Trembling Madness.

My favourite time to visit was in the dead of night, after a stop at one of these many pubs or the now sadly closed and much-missed Willow – a delightfully grubby club/Chinese restaurant. In certain sections of the Shambles, you can touch both sides of the street with your arms outstretched. The best time to test your wingspan is once all the other visitors have headed home.

In recent years, the narrow lane has become saturated with wizard-themed shops, thanks to its striking resemblance to the fictional Diagon Alley from Harry Potter. When the relentless peddling of magical merchandise becomes overwhelming, visitors can retreat to the shrine of Margaret Clitherow.

Step inside this peaceful sanctuary and you’ll find respite from the bag-wielding mayhem that’s left firmly outside. The shrine welcomes the public throughout the week and holds Mass at 10am each Saturday.

A quick walk through one of the Shambles’ snickelways (narrow alleyways) brings you to the Shambles Market, an open-air venue selling food and various goods. TikToker That Girl Fleurr, who explores destinations around the UK, recently declared the Shambles ‘the most magical street’ in Britain in a video. It’s a sentiment that’s difficult to challenge.

Jerry Rebbeck, who runs Wheelwrights York, told the Express: “Many of the buildings in the centre of York are centuries old, and have a spooky charm about them – walking down Micklegate at night feels like walking through a ghostly storybook.

“Within the city centre, historic buildings such as 85 Micklegate, a late medieval timber-framed terraced building, loom over the narrow street and look particularly eerie in the moonlight. Walking down the Shambles, famed for its likeness to Harry Potter’s Diagon Alley, you can see ghostly-looking old buildings such as 37 The Shambles that cast long shadows and add to the city’s paranormal feel. It’s these atmospheric streets and striking old buildings that help make York a picturesque backdrop for a Halloween weekend.”



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‘Secret’ hidden gems in popular tourist hotspot will ‘change how you see the city’

Rome is one of the most visited cities in Europe, and while many people know about the classic tourist sites like the Colosseum and the Vatican, there are some hidden gems an Italian local has shared

The square in front of the Colosseum, which is usually crowded with hundreds of tourist stands almost empty on March 5, 2020 in Rome, Italy
A travel expert from Italy has shared some hidden gems in Rome (stock photo)(Image: Marco Di Lauro/Getty Images)

Rome is recognised globally for its ancient ruins, most notably the Colosseum, religious sites like the Vatican and St Peter’s Basilica and its famous Italian cuisine, featuring a variety of pasta and pizza. It earned the name the ‘Eternal City’ due to its historical and cultural significance spanning centuries.

Located in the heart of Italy, Rome is a popular tourist destination that welcomes millions of tourists every year. According to Turismo Roma, tourism was at an all time high in 2024 with 22.2 million international arrivals, a 5.63 per cent increase from the previous year.

Federica, a travel content creator from Italy, has shared some recommendations of where to go in Rome beyond the classic tourist hotspots.

She posted a video on TikTok with short clips showing some beautiful sites in Rome, writing: “Don’t go to Rome if you’re going to skip places like these.”

In the caption of her video she added: “If you’re planning a trip to the Eternal City, save this Rome itinerary – it’s based on my full seven-day guide and packed with more than just the classics. From rooftop cocktails to secret palazzos, here’s what you actually want to do in Rome.

“Beyond the Colosseum and the Vatican, I’ve included some of the best hidden gems in Rome – like Galleria Doria Pamphilj, the Lateran Palace (where popes lived before the Vatican!), and beautiful churches.

“Whether it’s your first days in Rome or your third visit, these secret spots in Rome will change how you see the city.”

Federica gave suggestions of where to go to eat, sightsee and watch the sunset, and you can find some of her recommendations below.

1. Galleria Doria Pamphilj

The Galleria Doria Pamphilj is a large private art collection housed in the Palazzo Doria Pamphilj in Rome, Italy, between Via del Corso and Via della Gatta

Palazzo Doria Pamphilj, dating back to the 16th century, is a blend of art and history and the gallery is where most of the masterpieces of the Doria Pamphilj family’s private art collection are held.

2. Lateran Palace

Lateran Palace is an ancient palace of the Roman Empire and later became the main papal residence of Rome, as Federica mentioned.

It allows visitors to learn about the history of Christianity in Rome and is part of a larger complex that includes the basilica of St John Lateran, the baptistery, the Holy Stairs and the Sancta Sanctorum chapel.

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3. Cycle down Ancient Appian Way

For those who enjoy bike riding, Federica recommends cycling down Ancient Appian Way.

This is one of the oldest roads in Rome and was built by Appius Claudius Caecus starting in 312 BCE to facilitate troop movement and trade between Rome and Brindisi.

There are ancient ruins, catacombs, tombs and villas along Ancient Appian Way, making it popular for walking and cycling.

4. Carbonara at Cecilia Santa Cucina

Federica revealed that she gets her favourite carbonara from the Cecilia Santa Cucina restaurant in Trastevere.

It offers a variety of starters, first courses, main courses and desserts, including cuttlefish, lamb, pork and a dark chocolate ‘cigar.’

5. Watch the sunset from the Giardino degli Aranci

Many people enjoy watching the sunset from scenic places outside and Federica suggests seeing the sun set over Rome from the Giardino degli Aranci.

This is a large park and garden in Rome, also known as the Orange Garden, as there are lots of orange trees. The public outdoor space is said to offer spectacular views over the city.

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Beautiful seaside town named one of UK’s cheapest coastal gems with £194k homes

A stunning seaside town that has turned its reputation around and is experiencing a ‘second wind’ of tourism has been crowned the cheapest coastal resort in England

An aerial view of the seafront at Morecambe in Lancashire, UK
Who says moving to the coast has to break the bank?(Image: Getty Images)

Moving to the coast doesn’t have to cost a fortune, especially in this charming seaside town. Demand for coastal properties has spiked by a staggering 115 per cent compared to pre-pandemic levels, with swathes of Brits ready to ditch the city for a more laid-back life filled with golden sands and fish and chips. However, the sudden demand combined with limited availability has led to house prices skyrocketing in certain areas.

Take Sandbanks, for example – a stunning neighbourhood in Poole, Dorset with crystal-clear waters, golden beaches, that’s become somewhat of an A-list magnet in recent years. Here, average house properties cost a whopping £965,708 – more than triple the national average.

READ MORE: Huge boost for ‘declining’ UK seaside town as abandoned pier to get £13m refurb

Lighthouse and cafe at the end of the stone jetty. View looking back towards the town of Morecambe on the coast of Northwest England.
The charming town was crowned the cheapest coastal resort in England(Image: Getty Images)

If the near-million price tag is slightly out of budget, don’t worry – as the Co-Operative Bank has analysed recent data to find the most affordable UK coastal towns for both buying and renting. In England, Morecambe came out top, with average house prices at just £194,295.

“This Lancashire gem captures the essence of the English seaside, offering panoramic views over the seafront – as well as some of the most affordable house prices in the country,” the bank said. “The average house price here is actually lower than in Oban at £194,295, working out as 7.44 times the average annual income.

“However, rent prices in Morecambe are slightly higher, at an average of £821 per month. That’s 37.7 per cent of the average monthly income.”

MORECAMBE, ENGLAND - OCTOBER 21:  Guest houses line the sea front on October 21, 2009 in Morecambe, England. The seaside resort of Morecambe has invested around GBP 70 million in regenerating it's promenade and sea front with the privately funded and succesful flagship Midland Hotel leading the project.  For many of the towns traders and businesses though the failed hot summer predicted by weather forecasters has left them just breaking even or having to close.  (Photo by Christopher Furlong/Getty Images)
Average house prices in Morecambe are below £200,000(Image: Getty Images)

Top 20 seaside locations in UK – full list

  1. Oban
  2. Morecambe
  3. Blackpool
  4. Troon
  5. Filey
  6. Scarborough
  7. Whitby
  8. Southport
  9. Sunbar
  10. Swansea
  11. Portsmouth
  12. Torquay
  13. Eastbourne
  14. Weymouth
  15. Hastings
  16. Ramsgate
  17. Deal
  18. Aberystwyth
  19. Margate
  20. Newquay

Boasting five miles of soft golden sand and an award-winning seafront promenade that looks out onto the stunning Lakeland Fells, Morecambe was once branded one of the worst seaside towns in the country. Now, it hopes to take on the hyped-up coastal resorts of Cornwall and bring its glory days back.

“Morecambe offers you the chance to enjoy the many pleasures of the seaside, whether it’s flying kites, building sandcastles or enjoying the views across the bay,” Hails Visit Lancashire. “Stroll along Morecambe’s promenade with an ice cream or have fun seeing it on two wheels, before grabbing a picnic and heading on down to the beach for a spot of sandcastle making or kite flying.”

The SHIP sculpture by artist Anna Gillespie in Half Moon Bay, Heysham in Morecambe Bay. Photo by Colin Lane
Stunning sculptures are scattered around the town(Image: Colin Lane/Liverpool Echo)

Must-see attractions include the TERN project, which features a series of sculptures situated along Morecambe’s seafront – from steel cormorants, gannets and razorbills to the statue of Eric Morecambe, which was unveiled by the late Queen in 1999. The Art Deco Midland Hotel has also undergone restoration in recent years – making it one of the town’s most impressive structures.

Featuring four modern 30s-inspired rooms, six rooftop suites, a top-notch restaurant and ultra-stylish bar, Midland is a great base for exploring Morecambe, or for splurging out on a fancy afternoon tea while soaking in the views. Prices start from £145 per night.

*Prices based on Booking.com listings at the time of writing.

Do you have a story to share? Email us at [email protected] for a chance to be featured.

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Twins who have visited 70 cities in Europe list six places that are ‘hidden gems’

The Travel Twins have visited many European cities and have named six of their favourites that are not as popular as others – but are still well worth visiting

Wooden houses in the old town of Stavanger, Norway
Two travellers have unveiled their top picks for Europe’s best kept secrets(Image: Getty)

Many Brits are no strangers to a European jaunt, whether they’re chasing the sun or immersing themselves in rich history, stunning architecture and diverse cultures. While Paris, Madrid and Barcelona are often on the itinerary, there are plenty of lesser-known treasures waiting to be discovered.

Two globetrotting TikTokers have unveiled their top picks for Europe’s best kept secrets, having explored 70 cities across the continent. After immersing themselves in plenty of different locations, they listed six gems they’d recommend to others.

These destinations may not draw the same crowds as their more famous counterparts, but they promise an equally enriching experience without the tourist throngs.

In a video, which has amassed nearly half a million views, they said that Stavanger in Norway was their ultimate recommendation.

Plaza de España in Seville on a sunny day.
The duo recommended Seville in Spain as an underrated city breaks(Image: Getty)

Situated on the southwestern coast of Norway, a roughly seven-hour drive from the capital, Oslo, is the city of Stavanger.

This gem may not be familiar to many Brits, but it boasts an array of attractions including its picturesque old town and stunning hiking trails that offer breathtaking views of the Norwegian landscape.

Historical sites abound in the city, with highlights including Stavanger Cathedral, the Norwegian Petroleum Museum, and numerous Bronze Age Rock Carvings.

The TikTok users also spotlight Hameln, Germany as an under-appreciated European destination. Nestled near the larger city of Hanover, Hameln is famed as the mythical home of the Pied Piper.

The duo’s recommendations continue with Bern, Switzerland’s capital. This destination is ideal as a city break for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts, boasting landmarks such as the Cathedral of Bern, Marktgasse, and Barenplatz.

Dramatic sunrise above historical district in Riga, Latvia.
The TikTokers also recommended Riga in Latvia(Image: Getty)

Alternatively, they recommend Riga in Latvia or Poznan in Poland. Both are great for anyone with a passion for history and culture.

Seville in Spain was the final location to make the list. It offers a wealth of cultural experiences and is also a fantastic choice for a sun-soaked getaway.

While it may not be beachside, the city is dotted with hotels and resorts featuring pools, alongside a plethora of restaurants serving up traditional local cuisine.

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‘Best beach in UK you’ve never heard of’ with stunning views and hidden gems

Morecambe North is a classic British holiday resort that had its heyday in the post-war boom of the 1950s

Morecambe beach
Morecambe was named one of the worst seaside towns in the UK (Image: Getty )

In the midst of the cost-of-living crisis, with families seeking budget-friendly travel options, staycations – holidays within the UK – are increasingly becoming the preferred choice. Despite the allure of sun-soaked breaks abroad, the recent heatwave has shown you don’t need to fly overseas to enjoy a sun-kissed glow.

A quaint town in the north of England, which may have escaped your notice, has recently been crowned as having one of the best beaches in the country – and it might soon see an influx of visitors. Morecambe, nestled on Lancashire’s coastline, is a quintessential British seaside resort that flourished in the post-war boom of the 1950s.

Visitor numbers may have waned over time, but the anticipated opening of the £100m Eden Project Morecambe in winter 2028 is expected to cause a surge in tourism. If you’re hoping to dodge the crowds, Morecambe North beach has been highlighted as one of Britain’s 20 Greatest Beaches by the Daily Telegraph, complemented by two must-see hidden treasures nearby.

Morecambe North looks out over the Irish Sea and boasts a mainly sandy stretch perfect for family outings, framed by an enticing promenade peppered with ice cream shops, arcades, and the classic fish and chip outlets.

The Daily Telegraph said: “Silting and changing currents mean tides rarely venture in, which is great for power kites and moody photos, less so for bathing.”, reports the Express.

Eden Project, Morecambe
A new image of how the Eden Project Morecambe could look at dusk(Image: (Image: Grimshaw/Eden Project))

“Morecambe is a different kettle of cockles, with the water coming up to the prom twice a day and then drawing back to the sea. This brings other benefits besides a quick dip close to where you left the car.”

Art installations, games, and puzzles are scattered around to keep the little ones amused, while bird enthusiasts can marvel at the gulls, starlings, and even oystercatchers that visit the shore.

The vista is graced by The Midland, an exquisitely restored art deco hotel that has been a prominent feature on the shoreline since 1933.

Renowned for its sumptuous afternoon teas, the Grade II listed building has caught the eye of film directors, appearing in Laurence Olivier’s The Entertainer and the TV series Agatha Christie’s Poirot.

Eric Morecambe's statue
Eric Morecambe remains one of the country favourite entertainers(Image: (Image: Getty))

Naturally, no jaunt to Morecambe would be complete without paying homage to the statue of the town’s most celebrated figure.

Eric Morecambe – born John Eric Bartholomew – adopted his stage name from his hometown and rose to stardom as part of one of the nation’s beloved comedy duos with Ernie Wise. The bronze sculpture, a stone’s throw from the beach, is a magnet for tourists eager to mimic the comedian’s iconic stance.

The Telegraph’s list of notable beaches also features Brancaster in Norfolk, Clevedon in Somerset, and Par in the Isles of Scilly.

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Are British Overseas Territories worth visiting? Here are the 5 most tourist friendly gems

The British Overseas Territories are not part of the UK, but are under British dominion and the UK is responsible for their defence, international relations and good governance.

 island Tortola
(Image: Getty)

From the financial allure of the Cayman Islands to the untamed splendour of South Georgia, you’ve likely heard of British Overseas Territories (BOTs), but do you really know what they are? Are these “British” spots just cushy tax havens for the rich or remote refuges for unique wildlife on windswept isles?

The truth is, as reported by the Express, each territory maintains a unique character while being connected to the UK.

What are the British Overseas Territories?

These remnants of the once-mighty British Empire now amount to 14 specks scattered across the globe, from sun-soaked Caribbean islands to barren outposts in Antarctica. They’re not officially part of the United Kingdom but remain under British sovereignty, with the UK responsible for their defence, foreign affairs, and proper governance, reports Devon Live.

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Each BOT has its own constitution, local government, and legal system, yet the UK wields the ultimate authority, often through a Governor appointed by the King. These territories are legacies of Britain’s age of discovery and colonial might.

While numerous former colonies chose independence throughout the 20th century, some preferred to keep their ties with Britain for reasons like political stability, economic support, or historical loyalty.

Bermuda (population 64,000).

British passport holders can stay for up to 90 days without a visa, but those wishing to extend their stay or work must obtain a residence permit, which hinges on being sponsored by a local employer. Despite its small size, Bermuda offers a high standard of living shaped by its dual heritage of British governance and North American influence.

Bermuda
Bermuda radiates old-world charm from pastel-coloured homes and rose-inlaid gardens.(Image: Getty)

British Virgin Islands (population 31,000).

A haven for sailors and a popular choice for setting up offshore companies. These Caribbean islands offer tax-free personal and corporate income.

You’ll need local sponsorship to live or work here, but visiting is visa-free for Brits.

Cayman Islands (population 81,500).

Often referred to as the global capital of finance with zero income tax, the Caymans are also a luxury travel hotspot. British visitors don’t need a visa for short stays, but work or residency involves employer sponsorship and approval.

Gibraltar (population 33,700)

The Rock juts from Spain’s southern tip, blending Mediterranean sunshine with British quirks. It’s a financial and gaming hub, with no VAT and tax-friendly schemes for high earners and retirees.

Visiting requires no visa, but working or living there needs permits.

Turks and Caicos, with a population of 59,400.

Turquoise waters, white sands and a booming luxury tourism industry. The lack of income tax makes this Caribbean archipelago appealing to both businesses and tourists.

Brits can visit as tourists, but settling down requires securing employment and a local permit.

Travel and Residency.

In most instances, Brits can visit the inhabited Overseas Territories without needing a visa. However, if you’re planning to live or work there, you’ll typically need to secure employment first and then apply for a work permit via a local employer.

Some territories, like Gibraltar, offer specific residency options for investors, pensioners, or skilled professionals.

From a tax perspective, many BOTs don’t levy income tax, making them appealing to global businesses and individuals. But this doesn’t necessarily equate to an easy or inexpensive lifestyle – these locations often come with high living costs, limited infrastructure, or strict immigration controls.

The British Overseas Territories serve as a testament to Britain’s global history – but they also play a significant role in the present. Whether you’re fantasising about tropical beaches or a rugged wildlife adventure, these remote places provide a glimpse into Britain’s unique global footprint.

Just remember not to pack your bags without double-checking the paperwork.

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UK fishing town named one of Europe’s ‘hidden gems’ that many don’t know about

Nestled between two rugged cliffs in Yorkshire above the North Sea – a nice stroll in Staithes feels like you’ve stumbled upon some idealised version of coastal living

The village of Staithes in the North York Moors.
The village of Staithes in the North York Moors(Image: Getty Images)

A delightful UK fishing village has recently been dubbed one of Europe’s ‘hidden gems’. In a fresh compilation by European Best Destinations, Staithes in North Yorkshire was featured alongside Pico Island in the Azores, the vibrant villages of Villajoyosa in Spain and the floating houses of Lake Bokod in Hungary as one of the continent’s 18 most unique and underappreciated attractions.

If you’ve ever had the pleasure of visiting, as I did recently, you’ll certainly comprehend why. Tucked between two craggy cliffs overlooking the North Sea, a leisurely wander in Staithes feels like you’ve chanced upon an idyllic depiction of coastal life.

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I was even fortunate enough to experience a bit of picture-perfect sunshine during my brief yet memorable visit, writes the Mirror’s Benedict Tetzlaff-Deas.

Staithes is the very town that birthed world explorer Captain Cook, but it now boasts a range of artistic shops, inviting pubs and top-notch restaurants. One fantastic way to reach this destination is to trek a few miles along the dramatic North Yorkshire coastline from Saltburn.

From this vantage point, you can gaze down at the quaint fishing cottages nestled below, before descending into the village to explore its offerings.

Immediately, you’ll observe a strong focus on arts and crafts in the area – a nod to its history as home to the Staithes Group, a collective of 19th-century painters attracted by the town’s fishing traditions and maritime lifestyle. While modern life has evolved, the artistic vibe remains intact.

Staithes is a seaside village in the Scarborough Borough of North Yorkshire, England. Easington and Roxby Becks, two brooks that run into Staithes Beck, form the border between the Borough of Scarborough and Redcar and Cleveland. Formerly one of the many fishing centres in England, Staithes is now largely a tourist destination within the North York Moors National Park.
Staithes is far less crowded than neighbouring Whitby (Image: Getty Images)

In the local Staithes Gallery, I found myself captivated by contemporary artworks inspired by coastal living. The town is also peppered with quaint gift shops and subtle public art installations.

Despite its compact size, Staithes is far less crowded than neighbouring Whitby and even quieter than Robin Hood’s Bay, another charming fishing village just along the coast.

This allowed me to leisurely stroll down to the harbourside where the Cod and Lobster pub provides an opportunity for a swift pint overlooking the beach and, reportedly, some excellent seafood.

One of the town’s charms is how it’s bisected by the Staithes Beck river, offering a picturesque walk along the beach before ascending the steps and rounding the corner, all while remaining waterside with the cliffs in full view.

There’s also a climb back into the cliffs on the north side of the river, affording stunning views of the town, beach and sea.

I lodged a brief car journey away in Whitby, but if you’re considering an overnight stay, there’s an abundance of bed and breakfasts available, some situated right next to the beach. I’d definitely recommend spending the night if possible.

We have numerous charming seaside locations in Britain that perhaps we don’t appreciate enough – Staithes might just be the most delightful of them all – so it’s heartening to see that recognition is now coming from beyond our shores.

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Richest and poorest hidden ‘gems’ of seaside have been revealed

The seaside rich list is out from millionaire’s row to the bucket and spade champions of the north – check out how some of the UK’s favourite getaway destinations rank

Sandbanks left and Newbiggin-by-sea on the right
Golden beach at Sandbanks, the most expensive compared to the picturesque natural rugged beauty of Newbiggin-by-sea in Northumberland the cheapest

Britain’s most expensive seaside towns and the bargain “hidden gems” have been revealed. While the beaches of Sandbanks in Dorset still sit at the top of the seaside rich list, there are bargains to be had in the north of England according to the latest research.

But home buyers wanting to move to Sandbanks will not get much change from £1 million with the average house price £965,708 last year, according to Lloyds. While some of the cheapest can be found at Blackpool at £146,764 and Newbiggin-by-Sea in Northumberland at £132,863.

Sandbanks in Dorset, a popular location for celebrities such as former football manager, Harry Redknapp, with its array of upscale restaurants and glitzy nightlife. The bank said the average house price in Sandbanks has fallen by 3%, or £33,595, compared with 2023, but still sits at the top of its coastal property league.

Millionaire's row, homes to the elite in Sandbanks in Dorset
Millionaire’s row, homes to the elite in Sandbanks in Dorset (Image: Getty Images)

One of the most expensive properties on the peninsula is a waterfront mansion on the site of a bungalow that John Lennon bought for his aunt 60 years ago, which has gone up for sale for almost £15m.

Harry and Sandra Redknapp at home on Sandbanks
Harry and Sandra Redknapp at home on Sandbanks

It was renamed ‘Imagine’, in honour of the land’s connection to Lennon, who once described sandbanks as the most beautiful place he had been. Salcombe in Devon is second on the Lloyds list, with an average house price of £826,159 in 2024.

Foodie hotspot Padstow in Cornwall, where celebrity chef Rick Stein operates is third , with buyers paying £715,974 on average to live there and enjoy the charm of its harbour and seafood scene on a daily basis.

Celebrity chef Rick Stein pictured at the harbour in Padstow
Celebrity chef Rick Stein pictured at the harbour in Padstow(Image: SWNS)

But Newbiggin-on-sea in Northumberland is described as a “hidden gem” with it’s rugged beauty but rock bottom prices. It is described as a bay “teeming with marine wildlife, a peaceful beach known for its glowing sunrises and fiery sunsets, and Sean Henry’s intriguing Couple sculpture that sits out at sea. They’re all waiting for you in Newbiggin-by-the-Sea.”

Unspoilt view of Newbiggin-by-the-sea in Northumberland
Unspoilt view of Newbiggin-by-the-sea in Northumberland(Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)

Amanda Bryden, head of mortgages at Lloyds, said: “Coastal living continues to hold a special appeal – whether it’s the lure of sea views, sandy beaches, or a slower pace of life. “Our latest research shows the most exclusive seaside spots – like Sandbanks – still command premium prices.

“In some of the UK’s most desirable coastal towns, average prices have dipped slightly over the past year.

“But, over the longer term, values remain significantly higher – especially in the South West, where demand from lifestyle movers continues to shape the market. At the other end of the scale, there are still pockets of real affordability – particularly in Scotland, where buyers can find coastal homes for a fraction of the price.

“For those willing to look beyond the traditional hotspots, there are some hidden gems offering great value and a strong sense of community. It’s also important to recognise that not all coastal areas share the same fortunes.

Seaside resort of Blackpool with its iconic Tower dominating the skyline
Loved by millions. Seaside resort of Blackpool with its iconic Tower dominating the skyline(Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)

“Some seaside towns face significant challenges, from seasonal economies to a lack of affordable housing for local people.”

Here are Britain’s most expensive seaside locations, with the average house price in 2024, according to Lloyds:

1. Sandbanks, South West, £965,708. 2. Salcombe, South West, £826,159. 3. Padstow, South West, £715,974. 4. Aldeburgh, East of England, £619,693. 5. Lymington, South East, £608,253. 6. St Mawes, South West, £552,198. 7. Lyme Regis, South West, £531,815. 8. Budleigh Salterton, South West, £496,998. 9. Dartmouth, South West, £495,643. 10. Kingsbridge, South West, £484,986

From above beautiful Padstow
From above beautiful Padstow harbour, home to celebrity chef Rick Stein(Image: Getty Images/EyeEm)

Here are Britain’s least expensive coastal locations, according to Lloyds, with the average house price in 2024:

1. Campbeltown, Argyll and Bute, Scotland, £103,078. 2. Rothesay, Argyll and Bute, Scotland, £111,764. 3. Millport, North Ayrshire, Scotland, £114,008. 4. Port Bannatyne, Argyll and Bute, Scotland, £115,421. 5. Girvan, South Ayrshire, Scotland, £116,211. 6. Greenock, Inverclyde, Scotland, £117,751. 7. Ardrossan, North Ayrshire Scotland, £124,532. 8. Wick, Highlands, Scotland, £126,708. 9. Stranraer, Dumfries and Galloway, Scotland, £128,888. 10. Saltcoats, North Ayrshire, Scotland, £129,194

Here are England and Wales’s least expensive coastal locations, according to Lloyds, with average house prices in 2024:

1. Newbiggin-by-the-Sea, North East, £132,863. 2. Fleetwood, North West, £146,338. 3. Blackpool, North West, £146,764. 4. Withernsea, Yorkshire and the Humber, £148,402. 5. Maryport, North West, £153,243. 6. Seaham, North East, £157,100. 7. Blyth, North East, £158,265. 8. Hartlepool, North East, £158,271. 9. Cleethorpes, Yorkshire and the Humber, £166,909. 10. Whitehaven, North West, £170,673

Here are the most, followed by the least, expensive coastal locations in each region or nation, according to Lloyds, with average house prices in 2024:

Sandbanks still top of the rich coastal property list
Sandbanks still top of the rich coastal property list(Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)

East Midlands – most Chapel St Leonards, £214,802 least Skegness, £202,559. In the East of England Aldeburgh, £619,693 – Lowestoft, £238,372. North East it is Whitley Bay, £310,918 then Newbiggin-by-the-Sea, £132,863. In the North West Grange-over-Sands, £308,419 then Fleetwood, £146,338. In Scotland, St Andrews, Fife, £458,381 then Campbeltown, Argyll and Bute, £103,078. South East it is most Lymington, £608,253 and least East Cowes, £239,605 and in the South West Sandbanks, £965,708 withe the least in Plymouth, £248,668. In Wales top spot goes to The Mumbles, £417,043 with Prestatyn, £192,331 at the bottom and in Yorkshire and the Humber Whitby/Robin Hood’s Bay, £299,161 and Withernsea, £148,402

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Best Crypto to Buy: 4 Undervalued Gems That Could Explode

The crypto market moves fast, but it’s moving faster than ever this week. While Bitcoin holds tight above $100,000, altcoin prices are exploding.

It started with large caps like Ethereum, Solana, and Dogecoin, but now smaller market capitalisation cryptos are providing huge gains. According to CoinMarketCap data, the total crypto market cap has jumped by over $500 billion in the last 30 days.

This article looks at four of the best crypto to buy now that are undervalued and could provide substantial gains in the months ahead.

BTC Bull Token

As is often the case in bullish periods, the meme coin sector has been one of the biggest providers of gains this month. There’s no shortage of meme coins that have risen over 100%, and some – like Moo Deng – are up close to 10x.

But one of the most promising meme coins on the market might just be BTC Bull Token, a Bitcoin-themed project that pays its holders real Bitcoin rewards.

It tracks Bitcoin’s price and runs airdrops at key milestones. The first was planned for $100K, followed by $150K, $200K, $250K, and so on. These airdrops will continue until Bitcoin hits $1 million, allowing meme coin investors to benefit from $BTC’s long-term growth without having to purchase it directly.

The project is undergoing a presale which has raised $5.7 million so far.

Its early stage means that investors still have the opportunity to buy $BTCBULL cheaply, which could lead to strong gains.

Solaxy

Solaxy is building the world’s first Solana layer 2 blockchain, and it could change how users’ interactions with the ecosystem.

Although Solanna is known for its impressive speeds and seamless user experience, it continues to grapple with congestion issues during periods of peak network activity. In these windows, transactions take longer to complete, and failure rates increase.

The Solaxy layer 2 blockchain offers an innovative solution. It uses transaction bundling technology and off-chain computation to process transactions at a higher speed than Solana.

This has the potential to unlock new applications within the Solana ecosystem and could also lay the groundwork for increased adoption, which could see Solaxy grow rapidly.

Solaxy is also undergoing a presale, where it has raised $35 million so far. This makes it the biggest Solana presale in history, signalling real growth potential once it hits exchanges.

 

Dogwifhat

Regarding meme coins on Solana, Dogwifhat is one of the most promising options on the market right now.

$WIF was a top performer in early 2024, peaking at a market capitalisation of around $4 billion. It struggled to maintain peace in early 2025 and crashed almost 90% from its ATH, but it’s starting to gain traction once again.

It’s currently the best-performing cryptocurrency among the top 100 projects by market cap, having risen by 71% this week.

However, its current market cap is just $1 billion, leaving room for around a 4x gain to catch its ATH.

And considering that momentum is on its side, there’s every chance that it does surge toward its ATH in the coming months.

Deepbook Protocol

In addition to Solana, Sui is another blockchain with strong potential. One reason why is that it’s supported by Solana’s Phantom wallet.

This means that millions of Solana users can easily enter the ecosystem, which could draw billions of dollars in liquidity there.

And within the Sui ecosystem, Deepbook Protocol is one of the most promising projects.

It’s the blockchain’s native decentralised exchange, and it’s also the ecosystem’s native liquidity layer.

In practice, this means that Deepbook Protocol handles liquidity provision for ecosystem applications, leaving them to focus all their efforts on creating a better user experience.

This also makes Deepbook Protocol a crucial piece inside the Sui ecosystem and means its price rise will likely rise alongside the network’s adoption.

This article is for informational purposes only and does not provide financial advice. Cryptocurrencies are highly volatile, and the market can be unpredictable. Always perform thorough research before making any cryptocurrency-related decisions.

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