hidden

This village is described by visitors as a ‘walkers and cyclists paradise’ with historic viaducts and stunning valley views that create one of the most challenging cycle routes

Like something plucked from a storybook, this charming English village in Cumbria offers everything from peaceful riverside walks to thrilling hikes, leading you past waterfalls, farmland and valleys.

The settlement itself lets you journey back through history via its stone-paved lanes and postcard-worthy homes, serving as a tranquil haven between major adventures. Nestled within a steep and slender valley, it boasts several welcoming pubs, tea shops, camping grounds, bed and breakfasts, and a small museum. One visitor, following their trip to the location, described it as a “cyclists’ and walkers’ paradise”. They posted on TripAdvisor: “Stunning little village, with views that normally you’d see in a holiday brochure. A wonderful lunch at the Heritage Centre as we cycled through the area. Barrowdale, Deepdale and the Yorkshire Dales are all within a very close distance.”

Another shared their encounter with this “gem of a village”, saying: “It’s like stepping back in time (apart from the cars! ). Beautifully kept cottages, a superb church, good pubs and a car park with clean toilets, all set in a simply stunning valley. There’s even a tiny but useful shop. I could spend all summer here.”

Among the numerous stunning walks near the village that attract enthusiastic hikers is the route to Arten Gill Viaduct, an impressive eleven-arch railway bridge. Built in 1871 to carry the Carlisle railway line across Artengill Beck, this towering structure stands approximately 117 feet high and remains a breathtaking spectacle offering spectacular panoramas whilst continuing to operate today.

The viaduct lies a thirty-minute cycle from the village and requires just under two hours on foot. Though it’s a fifteen-minute drive, tourists utilise the nearby Dent Head Viaduct car park before making their ascent to witness its magnificent splendour.Those fascinated by railway engineering and historic monuments might consider visiting both viaducts in a single excursion.

A recent guest said: “Lovely walk from Stone House. Park by the river, and having crossed the bridge, take the Arten Gill Viaduct signposted footpath. We continued along the track to where it is crossed by the Pennine Bridleway before turning back. Stunning views for miles!”.

Also attracting outdoor enthusiasts is Gastack Beck Waterfall, tucked away off the main path yet accessible from Dent. This tranquil spot receives fewer visitors than other Yorkshire Dales cascades, creating an ideal location for a refreshing plunge, though one explorer warned it’s so well-concealed that you could “blink and you’ll miss it”.

If you’re more inclined to stay near the quaint cobbled streets, the village boasts the Dent Village Museum and Heritage Centre. This centre provides a wealth of historical information and artefacts that narrate the area’s story. The centre was established by Jim and Margaret Taylor, who have devoted years to salvaging and restoring these displayed artefacts, ensuring the village’s vibrant history continues to thrive.

Writer Deborah Peters was one of the first to set sail on Celebrity Cruises’ newest ship, and discovered endless extravagant eating and entertainment options to explore

Imagine you’re on your dream holiday – how many bars and restaurants would be too many? How many different spaces can you explore in a short space of time? To answer these questions, we were lucky enough to join the maiden voyage of the Celebrity Xcel, Celebrity Cruises’ newest ship for 2026.

The latest in the Edge Series of ships, the Xcel will have you spoilt for choice; there’s so much on offer that it’s hard to decide what to do first. Luckily, inside your cabin you’re provided with daily planners, and there’s a handy app with information on what’s happening where.

Everything on board the Xcel is sparkly and brand new, you’re surrounded by so much art you won’t know where to look first, and the Magic Carpet platform, suspended above the sea, is seriously impressive. Setting sail from Fort Lauderdale, there was certainly a celebratory atmosphere as we started our Caribbean cruise to Bimini in the Bahamas and Cozumel in Mexico.

READ MORE: Where to go on holiday in 2026 – from surprising EU foodie hotspot to ‘cheaper Cotswolds’

READ MORE: ‘I found how to take a Traitors-inspired getaway to Edinburgh for under £100 a night’

What’s on board the Celebrity Xcel?

The Grand Plaza is the main hub of the ship. Set over three open and airy decks, it’s overlooked by a breathtaking chandelier hanging above the martini bar, where the flamboyant bar staff put on a skilled juggling performance in front of an eye-catching golden horse sculpture. It’s the perfect spot for relaxing, with different entertainment each night and brilliant people- watching opportunities at all times (especially during the silent disco!).

One new area on the Xcel is The Bazaar on deck five. It’s approached through a tunnel of changing lights, and is inspired by the cultures, flavours and sights of the destinations you’re visiting on your cruise. Every time we passed through there was a different delicious smell, and it’s full of interesting little stalls from local artisans. Festivals take place here on sea days where you can experience themed sips and snacks, and crafting activities are also dotted around.

The food on board the Celebrity Xcel

There are so many different dining experiences on board the Xcel, and the food standard is excellent. The four complimentary restaurants – Cosmopolitan, Normandie, Cyprus and Tuscan – are all designed differently and have their own signature dishes.

The Oceanview café is a relaxed space with great views and great food. The choice is huge and as well as the main buffet for breakfast, lunch and dinner, there’s a pizza and pasta bar, an ice-cream parlour, late night snacks… it goes on and on and on.

There are also seven speciality dining restaurants, bookable for an extra charge. We were massively impressed by Mosaic, an open kitchen concept with a spin on your destination’s signature dishes, all presented beautifully. Bora, meanwhile, is a new outdoor restaurant at the top of the ship, serving extravagant brunches and sunset dinners – perfect for date nights.

What can you do on the Celebrity Xcel?

With all that food and drink, you might fancy some light activity. A walking/running track winds its way around the top decks with views of the pool. For the more active, the state-of-the- art gym looking out to sea is fantastic; we’d never had such a great view from a treadmill.

There’s also a gorgeous spa with its own private sundeck called Vitamin D, and a huge choice of saunas, steam rooms and treatments. It’s so relaxing and quiet, it’s hard to remember that you’re at sea at all.

The Celebrity Pool Club is overlooked by a giant mirrored monkey sculpture that provides the perfect spot for selfies. Poolside valets keep you refreshed all day and there’s a programme of volleyball, poolside trivia and aquafun dance classes. After hours the pool club transforms to host the Shine the Night party with DJs. There are so many entertainment areas on board, there’s something for everyone – a casino, a theatre, The Club with activities, retro video games and game shows, an art gallery, and more bars than you can keep track of.

And of course, there are loads of excursions to choose from when you get off at your destinations too; the shark snorkelling at Bimini in particular was a fantastic experience.

One last thing…

Something worth investigating is the whispered rumours of a secret speakeasy bar on board. You won’t find any information about it online (it’s only referred to as ‘IYKYK’ on the website) and staff will deny all knowledge when questioned, but we happened upon it on our last night. It’s all very hush hush with no photos allowed, but if you can find it, it’s an experience you won’t want to miss. All we’ll say is look out for the photo booth…

How much does it cost?

Celebrity Cruises’ 7-nights Bahamas, Mexico & Cayman Cruise on board the Celebrity Xcel, sailing from 1-8 March 2026, costs from £879.50 per person based on two adults sharing an Inside Stateroom. This price includes food, with drinks packages, flights and WiFi at extra costs.

For additional options for Caribbean cruises, have a browse of TUI’s and MSC’s offerings.

A place in North Yorkshire is a “hidden gem” of a walk, with “fabulous views” – and it might look familiar if you’re a fan of a certain blockbuster film.

A striking limestone cliff offering panoramic vistas of the Yorkshire Dales has been described by hikers as a “hidden gem” – and it doubles as a filming spot for one of cinema’s most successful franchises.

Malham Cove, situated just north of Malham village in North Yorkshire, is an enormous, curved amphitheatre-like formation of limestone that rises approximately 80 metres and spans around 300 metres in width.

Created by glacial meltwater at the close of the last Ice Age over 12,000 years ago, the cove stands as one of the Yorkshire Dales National Park’s most distinctive natural features.

Typically, people reach the cove by foot from Malham village, often leaving their cars at the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority car park before strolling through the village and down Cove Road.

From afar, the rock face commands the landscape, with one TripAdvisor user describing it as “a curving [structure] that looks like an impregnable wall of a fortress out of a summer blockbuster movie”, reports Yorkshire Live.

A footpath leads to the cliff’s base, whilst roughly 400 irregular stone steps wind up the western flank to the summit.

Hikers report the climb is demanding yet achievable. One commentator observed it takes “about 20 minutes to the top if you don’t hang around too much”.

Once at the summit, walkers are treated to sweeping vistas stretching back down the valley towards Malham and further afield.

Visitors consistently praise the spectacular scenery, with one remarking: “The views, especially on a clear day, are fabulous. In this spot, you can feel truly at peace and at one with nature.”

Another said that the “panoramic views of Malham are totally worth it”.

Atop the cove lies an extensive limestone pavement, a distinctive and uncommon terrain of fractured stone blocks called clints – with fissures that form a special micro-climate nurturing unusual ferns and wildflowers.

Malham Cove has also gained recognition for its appearances on screen. It featured significantly in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 1, serving as an isolated camping spot for Harry and Hermione.

The landmark has additionally been shown in the BBC programme The Trip with Steve Coogan and Rob Brydon, alongside previous film versions of Wuthering Heights.

As one reviewer advised: “Prepare yourself, take plenty of water, allow plenty of time… and just go for it. You won’t regret it.”

The picturesque medieval village in North Yorkshire has stunning historic landmarks and beautiful vistas – perfect for a peaceful weekend escape.

A charming village in Yorkshire is home to a hidden treasure that visitors simply can’t resist – it could be the ideal location for a quick escape. This tranquil village, tucked away in North Yorkshire’s stunning countryside, is being praised as the perfect place for a recharge, and it’s easy to see why.

The medieval village provides a unique window into England’s rich history, all while offering gorgeous attractions and breathtaking views. Appleton-le-Moors, a village and civil parish in the North York Moors National Park, is situated roughly two and a half miles north east of Kirkbymoorside. It’s also conveniently close to Pickering and seamlessly extends into the villages of Spaunton and Lastingham, located on the edge of the open moorland.

With a modest population of just 161 according to the 2021 census, Appleton-le-Moors’ name originates from an Old English term meaning ‘apple orchard’. It’s often cited as a near-perfect example of a planned village in the UK, boasting a lively community spirit. Perched on a hillside above a bend in the River Seven, Appleton-le-Moors is surrounded by fertile farmland crisscrossed by footpaths – making it the dream destination for walkers seeking picturesque landscapes.

Mentioned in the renowned Domesday Book, this ancient village has preserved its traditional medieval layout and remains a point of archaeological interest to this day. Appleton-le-Moors is a treasure trove of historical finds, with discoveries including a medieval oven, flint tools and Roman coins, reports Yorkshire Live.

Hidden gem church

The village is renowned for its historic building, Christ Church, often dubbed ‘the little gem of moorland churches’. This Grade I listed 19th-century church showcases exquisite craftsmanship and was designed by architect JL Pearson, the mastermind behind Britain’s famed Truro Cathedral. Christ Church exhibits Pearson’s signature French Gothic style, adorned with intricate decoration. Perhaps the church’s most celebrated feature is its Rose Window, echoing the design of the White Rose of York. The Rose Window’s stained-glass panels portray Christian virtues such as Hope, Faith, and Charity, and the church also boasts a tower crowned with a spire.

The Village Hall

Another notable landmark in Appleton-le-Moors is the Village Hall, also a creation of Pearson. The Victorian Gothic architect designed the Grade II listed building – formerly a school – and it was constructed in 1867 according to records. Major refurbishment works were carried out in the hall in 1999 and today, it stands as a focal point of the village, truly embodying rural life and serving as the heartbeat of the community. Visitors should not miss the village’s most famous spot, The Moors Inn, which has been operating as an inn since the 17th century.

The Reading Room

Another key structure in the historically rich village of Appleton-le-Moors is the Reading Room, erected in 1911 at the handsome cost of £75. The creation of the Reading Room is attributed to Joseph Page, a local butler living at Appleton Hall, who financed the construction. Its aim was to offer a place for villagers to mingle without succumbing to inebriation.

Discover Aysgarth in Yorkshire Dales, home to stunning Aysgarth Falls and a hidden Edwardian rock garden perfect for nature lovers and history enthusiasts

Nestled in the Yorkshire Dales lies a charming village, renowned for its natural wonders such as cascading waterfalls and a historical secret garden.

While Aysgarth is a popular destination for those seeking to marvel at the pristine Aysgarth Falls, many are unaware of another equally stunning ‘hidden gem’. This secret spot can be easily overlooked, located just off the A684 between Swinithwaite and Hawes, a short distance past the turn-off for the waterfall entrance.

Upon arrival, you’ll encounter a metal railing and small gate. Don’t let this deter you; it’s essential to continue on to discover the secret gardens. Once inside, you’ll be greeted by an assortment of limestone rocks, adorned with alpine plants, inviting you to navigate through archways and mazes, reports Yorkshire Live.

The rock garden, now a listed building protected since 1988, offers a hidden world, preserving this piece of history from potential demolition. The garden was commissioned before the First World War by Frank Sayer-Graham, who resided in the cottage opposite. It’s believed that the land directly in front of the cottage served as a vegetable patch, given Sayer-Graham’s passion for horticulture, providing him with a unique gardening space. The Edwardian rock garden continues to impress those lucky enough to find it, with one recent visitor dubbing it a “must-visit” for gardening enthusiasts.

They went on to share on TripAdvisor: “The gardens’ proportions are modest, and 30-45 mins is all the time you’ll need. Everything about it is classy and understated, e.g., the signage outside the garden is small by today’s ‘in your face’ culture, and the old-fashioned donations box is tucked away close to the ground just as you enter. The garden is beautifully looked after, and we didn’t hesitate to make a generous donation towards its upkeep.”

The village is also home to the enchanting Aysgarth Falls, a peaceful series of waterfalls guaranteed to captivate adventurous visitors. The location is part of the Yorkshire Dales National Park and features a visitor centre, café and car park. The three-tiered cascades tumble down into the serene waters of the River Ure, which meanders through the centre of Wensleydale.

For more than two centuries, they’ve drawn visitors and became even more renowned after featuring as the setting for a scene in the Hollywood blockbuster Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves. One guest described the spot as a “water wonderland”. They commented: “What ever time of year you go, Aysgarth falls does not disappoint. Whatever the rainfall has been, the falls are beautiful, and the autumn colours added a little something special.”

Next to the falls lies the local nature reserve, providing numerous meandering trails for passionate ramblers exploring the woodland. There are frequently even glimpses of deer darting through the trees, so make sure you watch carefully. Another satisfied visitor shared: “Lovely hour-long visit to see the lower, middle and upper falls. Each walk was well laid out and simple to do. Didn’t take as long as the recommended times, but we weren’t far off. The falls were beautiful.”

DEVON has no short supply of beautiful beaches – whether you’re after gold sands, surfing waves or craggy caves to explore.

The two coasts – north and south – vary slightly in what they offer, though you’re sure to find something to keep everyone happy on your £9.50 Holiday in this beautiful part of the world.

North Devon is known for its dramatic scenery and surfing scene, with longer sandy beaches that are more open to the elements than on the south coast.

Here, expect a jagged coastline and windier conditions on the whole.

Meanwhile, South Devon generally has smaller, more sheltered beaches and coves to explore.

Conditions here are typically tamer, and many of its beaches are well-equipped with facilities – especially handy if you’ve got kids in tow. 

We’ve spoken to local experts and Sun readers who have holidayed in Devon to discover the best beaches, whether you’re after something family-friendly or a beach with a pub. 

Here’s what they said…  

Best for surfing 

If you’re keen to surf, North Devon with its exposure to the Atlantic is the place to go.

Croyde, Woolacombe and Saunton Sands are among the best places to surf, with great waves all year round and plenty of surf schools and options for equipment hire.

Paul Braithwaite, General Manager at Ruda Holiday Park near Croyde, said: “Croyde is one of the best beaches in the country, not just in the South West.

“It’s a huge surfer’s paradise and we have a park ranger team keeping the beach clean and tidy.”

The beach is also a fantastic option for accessible surf sessions with The Wave Project who run “Surf Therapy” sessions for youngsters. 

Meanwhile, on the south coast, Bantham has fairly reliable conditions (tip: be mindful of the rips that can take inexperienced surfers by surprise).

Gem Krupa, Holiday Home Sales Manager at Challaborough Bay recommends trying a surf lesson with a company like Discovery Surf School in Bigbury-on-Sea (beginner lessons from £42pp, surfboard hire from £15).

Best beach to escape the crowds

If you’re based in South Devon, you can escape the business of the bigger beaches like Challaborough and Bigbury if you’re prepared to walk.

Ayrmer Cove is around a 20-minute walk from the car park – and has no facilities – but when you arrive, you’re likely to have this picturesque sandy cove with rock pools to yourself.

Tip: this one’s not suitable for wheelchairs or prams.

The next beach along, Wyscombe Beach, is even more remote, around an hour’s walk from the nearest car park (at Ringmore).

Gem Krupa says: “Westcombe is one of my favourites because it has a secret beach that most people don’t realise exists.

“You walk through a cave from Wyscombe at low tide, or at high tide you can paddleboard there.

“But you have to catch it when the tide is right, so check the tides before you go so you don’t get cut off.”

In North Devon, Tessa Lomas suggests Barricane Beach.

She says: “It’s a lot smaller and more hidden than Woolacombe so feels much quieter. It’s good for swimming and there’s a little cafe there, too.”

Best beach with a pub

Just across from Bigbury-on-Sea and Bantham, Burgh Island Hotel plays host to celebs like Nicholas Cage and Paloma Faith – but you don’t have to be an A-lister to visit the island.

Next door, the 700-year-old Pilchard Inn is a former fisherman’s pub, with a cosy atmosphere and great value food.

Pop over for lunch – Kids can tuck into fish and chips (£7) or a side of fries (£4.50) while you crack on with cider battered haddock (£9.50) and a locally-brewed craft beer.

Gem Krupa, Holiday Home Sales Manager at Challaborough Bay, said: “You’re looking at a minimum of £650 a night to stay at Burgh Island Hotel.

“But if you time it right and you go there with the tide out, you don’t have to catch the sea tractor, which costs you £2 per person. You can walk over there for free and have a look.”

Best for families

On the south coast, Challaborough and Bigbury are great family-friendly options, as you can roll a pram straight onto the beach and there are facilities nearby, including cafes and toilets.

Sun reader Richard Tilley, 62, from Devizes in Wiltshire, recommends Paignton Sands for families, saying: “There’s nice soft sand for building sandcastles and the sea doesn’t go deep straight away, which is good for kids.

“You can hire pedalos and you’re also close to family-friendly pubs on the seafront, plus arcades and a pirate-themed pitch and putt (Pirates Bay Adventure Golf).” 

On the north coast, families are also well catered for. For instance, Westward Ho! Has rock pools to explore and showers to rinse sandy feet, while Croyde and Instow have car parks and slipways that are ideal for prams.

Sun reader Dawn Brannigan says Saunton Sands is a good bet for families: “Saunton Sands is brilliant for collecting driftwood – I like to collect it and make driftwood models. It also has its own restaurant and shop, plus showers and toilets.”

Best for dogs

Dog walkers staying near the North Devon coast can take their pick of coastal walks.

Braunton Burrows, a vast area of sand dunes and rural farmland, are great to explore with dogs, who are allowed off the lead.

Dawn Brannigan says: “You can park at Braunton Burrows then walk through the dunes and countryside until you reach the coast at the far end of Saunton Sands. It’s a lovely walk.” 

On the south coast, Bigbury-on-Sea is dog-friendly all year round, but while most people head west towards Bantham, Gem Krupa suggests heading in the other direction.

She said: “If you turn right out of our park at Challaborough, you’ve got three beaches that are pet-friendly and all within walking distance – Ayrmer Cove, Mothecombe and Wyscombe.” 

Best for wild swimming 

Daniel Start, author of the new Wild Guide South West, recommends a dip in one of the tidal pools on the North Devon coastline.

He said: “In the Victorian era wild swimming was very popular for its health benefits, especially along the North Devon coast.

“Tunnels Beach in Ilfracombe is only accessible via a series of hand-carved Victorian tunnels.

“The different pools were once demarcated for men and women, to keep them separate.

“Swim in the crystal-clear waters of a secluded tidal pool, sheltered from the open sea by natural rock formations. When the tide is low, explore the rock pools teeming with marine life.”

“At every turn there is a photo worthy view of a mystical place.”

Tucked away in Gloucestershire lies an enchanting and ancient woodland that feels like it’s straight out of a fairy tale.

Nestled in the heart of the Forest of Dean near Coleford, this forest is a spectacle of gnarled trees, moss-draped rocks and gorges, picturesque wooden bridges, endless verdant landscapes, and a complex network of footpaths that add to its charm. Visitors to this unique woodland often rave about its unparalleled beauty, likening it to a world of its own. With hidden caves, peculiar rock formations, and age-old trees whispering untold tales, this distinctive Gloucestershire landscape is a must-see for travel enthusiasts, particularly those keen on uncovering the UK’s natural wonders and mysteries. The woodland has even been recognised as a regionally important geological site in the ‘Forest of Dean Local Plan Review’.

Known as Puzzlewood, this exceptional temperate forest has been luring visitors to its leafy threshold for years. With a star-studded resume, Puzzlewood has served as a filming location for Star Wars: The Force Awakens, The Secret Garden, The Huntsman: Winter’s War, Doctor Who, Merlin, Netflix’s Our Planet and BBC’s Atlantis, earning it some serious celebrity credentials, reports Gloucestershire Live.

In fact, it’s widely speculated that this magical woodland was the muse behind JRR Tolkien’s Middle-earth in The Lord of the Rings series, specifically places like Mirkwood and the Old Forest. This enchanting forest is even rumoured to have sparked the imagination of JK Rowling, inspiring the Forbidden Forest in her Harry Potter series.

Spanning a vast 14 acres, Puzzlewood was earlier this year ranked seventh in Big 7 Travel’s ’50 Most Beautiful Places in the UK’ list for 2025. The woods hold a rich history, believed to have been used for cast iron mining during the Roman era. A staggering 3,000 Roman coins were discovered within its dreamlike landscape back in 1848. Visitors often describe Puzzlewood as “the most magical place on Earth”, and it’s not hard to see why with its glowing reviews.

One enchanted Tripadvisor user wrote: “A truly amazing and mystical place. Immerse yourself in the sights, sounds and smells of a deep forest experience. We were first to arrive and were able to enjoy the true beauty of the forest without anyone around for a while.”

They added: “A beautiful journey through pathways and gullies lined with moss and ferns, to towering trees high above, listen carefully to the birds and take time to just stand and watch, take in the smells of the forest and watch as the shyest of wildlife may just appear and surprise you. A truly refreshing and relaxing visit. We will definitely return again and again as the seasons change. Definitely underpriced for the truly immersive experience you get.” Another delighted guest said: “Even on a rainy day, Puzzlewood is a special place to visit. It has the feel of a magical glade full of ferns, moss covered rocks and intertwined trees and plants. At every turn there is a photo worthy view of a mystical place.”

Though currently shut for the winter months, Puzzlewood will reopen its doors to visitors from February 14, 2026. Entry for grown-ups is priced at £9.90 each, whilst youngsters can access these enchanted woodlands for £8.50. Concession passes for adults (carers, over-65s, disabled) are available for £8.90, and tots under 2 get free admission — though pushchairs aren’t permitted within the grounds. Concession passes for children (disabled) cost £7.50.

Pets aren’t allowed inside Puzzlewood owing to the site’s resident wildlife, though verified pet-sitting services are listed on their website. Guests should be aware that Puzzlewood features over 200 narrow and uneven steps which can become treacherous, particularly in wet weather. Robust footwear with excellent grip is advised.

An on-site café serves refreshments and those wishing to experience the captivating forest beyond standard opening times can reserve accommodation at Puzzlewood, offering exclusive and unlimited woodland access (during daylight only) plus the chance to assist with morning feeding sessions and meet the site’s cherished animals.

The stockings have been hung and the tree has been decorated – but who is that hiding behind those baubles?

Do you think you can identify the dozen Welsh sports stars obscured by our Christmas hangings?

They are all personalities who featured in Wales’ sporting headlines during 2025.

Take our quiz and see how many you can spot.

Mirror reporter Julia Banim enjoyed a winter spa break at A-list favourite and foodie haven Carden Park, and a little bit of drizzle did nothing to dampen her spirits

With Christmas fast approaching, I was fortunate enough to enjoy a winter spa break at a hotel beloved by celebs, and I’m happy to say it’s not down south.

Nestled in the Cheshire countryside, Carden Park is reportedly a favourite of A-lister couples such as Ryan Reynolds and Blake Lively, as well as Molly-Mae Hague and Tommy Fury. And the spa garden, complete with jacuzzis, fire pits, and heated glass pods, may well leave you feeling like you’re on a very high-end version of Love Island.

Back when I’m A Celebrity was filmed in North Wales during the pandemic, Carden Park even served as a plush eviction hotel for booted off campmates. It must have felt like a true haven for contestants after their insect infested ordeal, but what does this glam retreat have to offer for an average Joe such as myself?

READ MORE: EasyJet currently has flights from £23.99 to heaps of winter sun hotspots for 2026

Situated in complete seclusion amid lush green grounds, it’s no wonder that stars favour this haven of relaxation, which feels a world away from the bustle of city life. But, with pretty Chester and the bargain heaven that is Cheshire Oaks just around the corner, shopaholics won’t have much to complain about.

If you listen carefully during the sweeping drive through the grounds, you may well hear the gentle putt of a golf ball, but today, I’m in no mood for sport. It’s time to completely unwind and put all the stresses of the dark and gloomy season aside.

The spa building is separate from the hotel, an elegant, immaculate building which smells heavenly. The staff are warm and welcoming, and the bathrobes are soft and fluffy. I’m here on a girls’ weekend with my mum and my sister, and I can’t think of a better place to natter the day away over some celebratory fizz.

Now, stripping to your swimsuit on a drizzly November day isn’t for the faint-hearted, but I can assure you that once you slip your shoulders under the waters of the vitality pool, you’re absolutely away.

The sky is clear and blue, and I can barely tear myself away from my tranquil spot for my spa treatment, a wonderfully indulgent 50-minute Time-to-Pause ritual treatment, which left my sunlight-deprived skin glowing and petal soft.

Admittedly, I sometimes struggle to drift off during spa treatments and find myself anxiously making to-do lists in my head, but here I found myself almost completely disconnected from the world.

It certainly helps that, after you’re done with treatments, you have a choice of relaxation rooms to unwind in before entering reality. This includes a sensory room, complete with soothing screen, and, my personal favourite, the deep relaxation room, where the crackling fire offered a very seasonal feel.

Famished from all my ‘lady of leisure-ing’, I head for lunch at Elements, where we enjoy matching, and tasty, Tandoori Chicken Open Sandwiches overlooking the spa garden, washed down with some of the most delicious peach mimosas I’ve ever had. Any future visitors should make sure to grab a portion of the salt and pepper chips – a truly sensational side, and even better than your favourite chippy.

Even in what can feel like the greyest time of the year, the floor-to-ceiling windows let in plenty of light, and for a moment I feel as though we were back on holiday with a whole week of sunshine ahead of us.

The waiters also couldn’t be more lovely, even phoning down to the spa garden’s Bollinger champagne bar to ensure we had hot chocolate treats waiting for us when we returned. Very welcome when wearing flips in November.

Full from our hearty lunch, we head back down to the spa garden, to luxuriate in one of the glass pods with our hot chocs. Although we are already quite comfortable, a member of the bar staff came over with cuddly hot water bottles for us – a very sweet touch.

The bar is described as running in ‘all-weather’, and we certainly didn’t feel any less pampered for a bit of chill. That being said, we are Northern, and Southerners may well feel differently.

The afternoon soon melts away as we set about the very important task of trying out the spacious jacuzzis, plus the outdoor sauna, with its floor-to-ceiling window. It’s life I could very easily get used to. While we don’t mind a spot of drizzle, when it starts to rain, we head inside to the Indoor Thermal Suite.

While I would be more than happy with just the one sauna, Carden Park offers a relative gallery of thermal experiences, from a Finnish sauna to a Tepidarium, all encircling a sparkling ice fountain.

There are even two steam rooms to choose from – salt and aroma. I particularly enjoy the indoor vitality pool, which looks out over the garden and offers gorgeous therapeutic jets of bubbles.

I could happily float around gossiping in the vitality pool for hours, but it’s time to dry off and get glammed up for the next part of our dreamy day – dinner. We’re set to dine at Carden Park’s award-winning à la carte restaurant, The Vines, which has a swish yet welcoming feel.

Typically of me, I’ve forgotten my posh shoes and have to borrow some smart boots from my much more organised mum (this isn’t somewhere you stomp in with your muddy trainers!).

I am touched, however, by staff reassurances that they would have sorted me out with suitable shoes in a pinch, which definitely helps alleviate my embarrassment.

Carden Park Hotel is tastefully decorated, with a cosy feel perfect for blustery winter nights. But The Vines elevates this to a whole new level of elegance. Atmospheric, yet never daunting, we are made to feel at home, and there is a gently lively buzz to the room. The sort of sparkle you hope for any chatty girls’ night, albeit far posher than my usual Saturday.

The staff, are friendly and attentive, – an ongoing theme – while every single course on our taster menu is nothing short of superb. Even the freshly baked bread and butter is memorable.

There’s a real northern, comforting sense to the menu – the BBQ Cheshire Venison Loin is sublime – and there’s plenty of experimentation, with intriguing flavour inspirations from far and wide.

The roasted monkfish on the bones, served with bombay potatoes and a tasty coconut and kaffir lime sauce, is a real highlight. And I have to admit, even though I initially feel a little squeamish tucking into the chicken & rabbit galantine, this is dreamy.

Each dish is paired with a delicious drink, explained to us by the very knowledgable sommelier. I particularly love how creative these pairings were, with the sweet Hungarian Tokaji wine, which accompanies the caramelised apple pie, being my absolute favourite.

It’s always a surprise to me that this honeyed drink, which I can’t get enough of when in Budapest, hasn’t become fashionable among chic sorts in the UK yet.

In terms of my personal ranking, this is closely followed by the Brown Butter XO cocktail, served alongside the Banana & Popcorn Iced Parfait, which tastes like a desert in itself. There should be far more buttery cocktails in my opinion.

Although I try to pace myself, this is a table filled with temptation and I happily enjoy every drop. Really, is there a more blissful evening than sitting with two of your favourite people, enjoying a range of novel yet tasty treats? I think not.

When the time comes to leave the restaurant, I practically waddle to my room. I have a large appetite, and proud of it, but this hearty taster menu has defeated me. Thankfully, my room is clean, comfortable and with deep plush pillows. I’m soon enjoying the easy sleep of the truly rested.

Although I’ve enjoyed some lovely spa days in my time, I have to say nothing has ever come close to Carden Park. The setting is idyllic, the facilities are extensive, and every inch feels immaculate and well thought out.

Not to mention, the culinary experiences on offer are just as special as those found in the spa treatment rooms. Foodies, bring your appetites.

I will treasure my memories of Carden Park, and wholeheartedly recommend it as a winter bolthole, whether for a pre-Christmas getaway or January detox.

There are currrently plenty of packages on offer, including the Indulgent Spa Day pacakge for £299, and the A Little Winter Love Morning Spa Experience for £195. Find out more on the Carden Park website.

Do you have a story to share? Email me at julia.banim@reachplc.com

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