hidden

A HISTORIC railway tunnel in the UK has a new miniature train ride.

The Glenfield Railway Tunnel in Leicestershire originally opened in 1832 as part of the Leicester and Swannington Railway and this year it reopened with a new experience.

Visitors can head on tours of the first 365 metres of the disused railway tunnel for free (though donations are encouraged) and even head on a new miniature train for free as well, marking the first passenger services since 1928.

According to Time Out, the society’s chairman, Rodger Gaunt, said that interest “has been far beyond what we could have imagined”.

He added: “We think the tunnel is a hidden gem, so we’re all very pleased to show it off.”

One recent visitor said: “Absolutely amazing experience, great tour,and if you love history, trains and architecture – you have to see it.”

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Another added: “Really awesome adventure. I’m so glad I went.

“I felt submerged in history and the photo opportunities were out of this world.”

When the tunnel opened over a century ago, it was the longest railway tunnel in the world.

And it was primarily used to transport coal from the collieries in North West Leicestershire into what was then, the growing industrial town of Leicester.

Though, the construction of the tunnel was no easy feat.

Some trial drillings revealed that there were sand and clay beneath the surface, however, it was actually running sand.

This meant even more work needed to be done to construct the tunnel, and of course, with this, it became more expensive.

The tunnel needed to be lined with thick brickwork throughout and in some of the sandy sections there needed to be a ‘wooden shell‘.

This would reinforce the tunnel, but unfortunately it meant it took longer to construct.

Then the time came in the summer of 1832 where the tunnel opened with a special train named Comet.

It features narrow carriages, that weren’t very tall and had bars over the windows.

The train line was mainly used for transporting coal, granite and oil, though there were some passenger services as well.

However, these stopped in 1928 and then a complete closure came in the 1960s.

This historic tunnel was then eventually sold to Leicester City Council for a mere £5 and by the early 2000s, it was clear the tunnel had several flaws.

Today, the tunnel is managed by the Leicestershire Industrial History Society (LIHS) and tours run between May and October.

Nearby, visitors can also head to Abbey Park, which is divided by the River Soar.

The park is home to the remains of the 12th century Leicester Abbey, as well as the ruins of a 17th century mansion, Cavendish House.

For those wanting to grab a quick bite, there is also a small cafe in the park.

From the centre of Leicester, Glenfield Railway Tunnel is only a 16 minute drive away.

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In other rail news, a massive UK train station is shutting for nine days in £8million ‘once-in-a-generation’ overhaul.

Plus, the incredible train journey that goes to the ‘end of the world’ – past mountains, waterfalls and glaciers.

Associate Editor Tom Bryant was given a tour of the jungle where he was shown a super-exclusive treehouse totally hidden from view……where the new latecomers will cause chaos

Nestled in the trees high above the I’m A Celebrity camp is a slice of luxury that the contestants are totally oblivious to. Ever since the ten campmates were ushered into the Jungle, producers have kept the brand new structure completely camouflaged and out of view.

In fact it was so secret, after seeing it last week, I was banned from even mentioning its existence until now.

But with the arrival of Vogue Williams and Tom Read Wilson, the treehouse – called The Leader’s Lodge – will suddenly reveal itself. And I can confidently predict all hell will break loose.

I was given an exclusive tour of the Lodge where Vogue and Tom will live as the new leaders of the camp.They will look down – literally – on the campmates, who will be at their beck and call all day.

Not only that, but Vogue and Tom – dubbed “chief explorers of a bush explorers’ club” – will be living in luxury by comparison. They will have their own private dunny, comfy beds…and the views. Oh the views. The jungle is beautiful at the best of times. But from their vantage point, it’s extra special.

To further inflame their subjects, they will have a tannoy to summon them….

Insiders have dubbed the treehouse a “psychological experiment”. One said: “They will be looking down on their subjects….its’s going to inflame.”

As exec producer Olly Nash told me: “The two of them will arrive with a bang, and will be controlling everything that the camp do. They will control their lives, control what they are doing, and control what chores they do. The campmates will compete to get badges, but they have to impress the chief explorers to do so. It’s going to be brutal.”

Campmates….you’ve been warned..

So who are the two new latecomers?

The Mirror sat down with both Vogue Williams and Celebs Go Dating star Tom Read Wilson as they prepare to enter the jungle on Thursday.

And Vogue admits she likes the idea of playing the game like a certain hit BBC show. “I would not mind causing a bit of mischief, a bit like Traitors vibes,” she laughs. “I don’t want to annoy anyone, but I think I am very much willing to go along with the game.”

Tom is set to ruffle some feathers too…..as he admitted he was distraught about a booze ban.

“I do have a penchant for champagne, and as it is quite a naughty tipple, I confine it to the weekend,” he said. “So it is just going to feel like a very, very long week. I will never usually have a coupe of anything until Friday.”

Insiders have called the both “genius casting.” One mole said: “They are both a lot of fun – and will bring the energy to the camp and then some.”

TIRED of visiting the same old spots? Finding new places for a day out in your area can be difficult but now the UK’s best hidden gems have been revealed, great for discovering destinations.

Visit England recently announced the UK’s best hidden gems as part of its Visitor Attraction Accolades for 2024-2025.

And there is something for everyone from museums to brewery tours – here are their best 15 across Britain, per region.

East Midlands

The first hidden gem can be found in Donington le Heath in the East Midlands – the 1620s House & Garden.

Formerly known as the Donington le Heath Manor House, visitors can explore the 13th century building which inside is decked out with 17th century furnishings.

There are also gardens to explore at the attraction, laid out in early 17th century style.

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Also make sure to head to The Old Barn Tearoom for a quick drink, cake or warm bowl of soup.

A second site in the East Midlands that has been named a hidden gem is Melton Carnegie Museum at Melton Mowbray.

The museum is located inside Melton Mowbray’s former Carnegie Library, which was built back in 1905.

Inside, visitors can discover the local history of Melton from the Bronze Age right to the present day.

It is also free to visit.

And finally, Mrs Smith’s Cottage in Navenby was also named a hidden gem.

The heritage house belonged to Hilda Craven, who lived there throughout the 20th century.

Now as a museum and learning centre, visitors can explore the home and daily diaries kept by Hilda.

Admission costs £3.50 per adult and £2 per child.

East of England

Heading to the East of England and the Bushey Museum & Art Gallery in Hertfordshire was named a hidden gem.

The museum and gallery is entirely run by volunteers and inside visitors can explore the local history and heritage of Bushey.

It is free to visit.

Also recognised in the East of England was a hidden gem activity called the Celtic Harmony Camp, which can be found in Brickendon.

The camp is set in around 13 acres of ancient woodland and features life-sized, reconstructed Iron Age roundhouses, a Palaeolithic Cave and a Prehistory Centre.

The experience is also free to visit.

Then, the final one in the East of England is a tour of Ipswich Town Football Club, in Suffolk.

The guided tour allows fans to explore key and iconic areas within the stadium such as the Directors Box or the Boardroom.

North West

In the North West, Elizabeth Gaskell’s House in Manchester was named a hidden gem.

The attraction celebrates the life of Elizabeth Gaskell, one of the UK’s most important Victorian writers.

Visitors can explore the lavish interiors as well as pretty gardens.

Another spot in the North West made its way onto the list – moviESCAPE in Stockport.

This escape room has a movie theme and there are different rooms including the Haunted House II: Demon’s Curse and SAWtopsy.

For a more family-friendly option there is Merlin’s Magic Academy, where players solve puzzles and challenges.

Prices vary but the more players you have the cheaper it works out per player.

South East

In the South East, Shepherd Neame Visitor Centre tour in Faversham has been named a hidden gem.

Located at Shepherd Neame Brewery, visitors can head on a tour to learn more about their beers and brewing process.

Next up is St Barbe Museum & Art Gallery in Lymington – a historic coastal market town.

Inside, visitors can explore the history of Lymington and the New Forest Coast.

Another hidden gem in the South East is a tour of The Hook Norton Brewery Co Ltd.

Costing £20 per person, on the tour you will wander around the five-storey Victorian Tower Brewery for an hour and a half.

The tour then ends in the cellar bar, where you of course get to try the beer.

The brewery rather unusually is also home to three shire horses.

If beer isn’t to your taste, then you can head on a tour of the Wildshark Vineyard in Harrietsham.

For £20 per person, you can head on a self-guided tour of the vineyard, thanks to a handy map that shows different walking routes.

Alternatively, for £28 per person you could head on an hour and a half guided tour with a tasting.

South West

In the South West, one spot was named as a hidden gem – Sherborne Museum in Sherborne.

The local museum in Dorset features local history exhibits and a large archive of local records and photos.

It also is free to enter.

West Midlands

Over in the West Midlands, Stourbridge Glass Museum in Wordsley, visitors can explore the region’s history in glassmaking through interactive galleries.

There is even a live hot glass studio.

Last but not least, a tour of the Cotswolds Distillery in Stourton is also a hidden gem.

The tour costs £25 per person and includes tasting the spirits and liqueurs.

Alternatively for £37, you could do a tour and tasting with lunch included.

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Alan Carr has shared a huge update on replacing Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman as the presenter of Strictly Come Dancing following his victory on Celebrity Traitors

The job offers haven’t stopped rolling in for Alan Carr since his momentous Celebrity Traitors win, with the comedian even tipped to take over hosting duties on BBC One’s Strictly Come Dancing.

While he’s back with a new series of his hit comedy Changing Ends, the 49-year-old admits he’s unsure whether he could handle the challenge of stepping into Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly’s sparkly shoes.

“My name is in the hat,” he says. “What an honour. It’s a bit like when my name got bandied about for Britain’s Got Talent and The Great British Bake Off – I’m always on the periphery.

“I don’t know how serious it is. No one has approached me. People are so passionate about it and you saw me sweating in the castle when I was a Traitor, imagine me doing live telly with how many million people watching!”

Although after a star turn on The Celebrity Traitors, he knows how to convincingly lie – and that could come in handy on Strictly. If someone’s cha-cha-cha is a bit s**t, I’ve got the poker face!” he jokes.

“So many things have come from The Celebrity Traitors – so many job offers coming in – I’d be flattered, but I don’t know if I could do it [Strictly] justice. I just don’t want to ruin it for people.”

Alan is back on more familiar ground with Changing Ends – the semi-autobiographical sitcom about his childhood in 1980s Northampton.

Series three follows teenage Alan (played by Bafta nominee Oliver Savell) as he navigates obstacles such as stressful swimming lessons, and, more importantly, his first big crush – young Alan is smitten with Jake, the Saturday boy at the charity shop.

“I really got into charity shopping,” Alan smiles. “I used to go in there every Saturday and flick through the posters to catch his eye. I must have stunk like an old woman because I would get flares, I wore my dad’s sheepskin and we didn’t have dry cleaning like we do these days.

“I just wanted to be in love really. It still hasn’t happened!” With Alan now single after divorcing ex-husband Paul Drayton back in 2022, is he hoping his teenage crush will reach the real-life inspiration behind Jake?

“The boy knew then because I was just as unsubtle as I am now,” he laughs. “When I went back to Northampton, I saw him queuing up at a cash point. My knees went to jelly and I thought, ‘Oh my God, there he is.’ But I didn’t want to say hi.

“There’s still something there, but I don’t want a Surprise Surprise moment. He had his chance and he missed it! He could be dating a national treasure now.”

Fans will already know that Alan’s father Graham was famous himself – having been a professional footballer in the 1960s who went on to manage Northampton Town among other clubs. However, the new series also sees Alan’s mother Christine embracing life as a local WAG.

“We would drop my brother [Gary] off at Beavers and me and mum would sit in the Tesco café for an hour with a cup of tea and a Chelsea bun,” he says. “I remember this woman coming over in the canteen to ask for an autograph – I mean, it was funny.

“It sounds weird, but in Northampton, my dad was famous – people would stop him. My mum didn’t get the same standard as my dad, but it was funny. She was stopped a few times and people whispered, ‘That’s Graham Carr’s wife.’ Now she gets, ‘That’s Alan Carr’s mum – that’s the Traitor’s mum!’”

Christine isn’t always pleased with how Alan portrays his childhood, with Nancy Sullivan and Shaun Dooley playing his long-suffering parents.

“My mum goes, ‘Oh Alan, it wasn’t that obvious you were gay when you were a child.’ My mum, bless her – she’s still that she-wolf who goes up the school. ‘Don’t you pick on my Alan, he does fancy girls!’ I don’t think she realises how camp I am, she just loves me.”

Both his parents visited the show’s “surreal” set in Enfield, north London, which completely recreates his childhood home. “My poor dad walked up the stairs and nearly fell to his death because he thought the bedroom was upstairs,” he says. “How weird is that? It’s identical to the house. To have it decompartmentalised in a warehouse is so strange.”

As for whether we can expect more episodes of Changing Ends in the future, Alan says that it’s up to the fans.

“I like the stage it’s at – that weird puberty stage,” he says. “If people are watching and they want it to come back, I’ll think about writing some more.

“But when it gets to the call centre years at 18 and when I started packing shampoo and dog food, I think I’m going to run out of stories because that was a really bleak time. It could be like The Office and be called The Warehouse!”

Although, after managing to make it all the way to the very end of The Celebrity Traitors without being found out as a Traitor, Alan is concerned that viewers won’t trust him any more.

“I want it to be really authentic, but I worry now after doing The Celebrity Traitors people aren’t going to believe a word of Changing Ends!” he laughs.

Changing Ends, Sunday 23 November, 10.05pm, ITV1 and ITVX

During the winter months, this city break destination is a real-life winter wonderland thanks to its snowy weather. With Jet2 launching new routes it’s now easier than ever to visit its famous Christmas market

Jet2 is set to launch three new routes to a city break destination that’s famous for its medieval old town and Christmas market.

Flights from Edinburgh to Tallinn will run from November 27, with flights from Manchester and Birmingham launching on November 28. These seasonal flights come just in time to explore Tallinn when it’s often at its most beautiful, with frozen, snowy weather typical in the run up to Christmas. There are flights this December for just £30.

Jet2 describes Tallinn as looking like a “medieval fairytale”. The old town is UNESCO-listed, and has historic squares, cobbled streets, and colourful architecture. It’s the kind of place where you could easily spend the day wandering around, looking at the perfectly-preserved old buildings and stopping for a strong black coffee and a sweet pirukad pastry.

In the winter months, the old town is particularly charming, decked out in Christmas lights and often with a sprinkling of snow on the ground. The Christmas Market opens on November 21, and runs until December 28, with wooden stalls selling traditional crafts, fairground rides, and a land train decked out in fairy lights to take you round the town.

At the heart of the square is, what locals claim is Europe’s first Christmas tree. The area has been home to a Christmas tree since 1441, long before other nations took on the tradition of decorating trees in their homes. Once you’ve wandered around the square, try some traditional Christmas foods such as gingerbread or Estonian favourites like black pudding and cabbage. A spicy sausage called verivorst is also a very popular treat this time of year.

This walkable city boasts numerous incredible landmarks in its center. Visit the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, a distinctive Eastern Orthodox church featuring onion domes. Or explore the imposing Toompea Castle, a medieval structure now used by Estonia’s parliament. The original castle was built by the Danish in the 13th Century, but parts were destroyed and rebuilt in the Middle Ages, while another newer wing features 18th-century baroque elements.

Visit Kadriorg Palace, which sits within vast areas of parkland. Founded by Russian Tsar Peter I in 1718, this spectacular baroque palace was modelled on Versailles. It’s home to the Kadriorg Art Museum, which has an impressive array of European and Russian art from the 16th to 20th centuries, while the surrounding Kadriorg Park looks beautiful in winter, with fountains and snow-covered greenery. At the edge of the park, you can even enjoy views across the Baltic Sea.

The old town offers a variety of hotels, hostels, and apartments to choose from. The four-star Nunne Boutique Hotel has excellent reviews and old-world charm. Twin rooms start at just £70 a night for two sharing, and for €10 per person you can enjoy the hotel’s spa, which features a massage pool and saunas. There’s even a kids’ room with toys and games to keep small visitors entertained.

The Merchants House Hotel is full of character and offers 36 rooms and suites just steps from the old town’s top attractions. This unique hotel is made up of historic, converted homes set around a courtyard, and offers economy double rooms for just £66 a night for two sharing.

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It’s one of the largest surviving examples from the Roman occupation of Britain, and —hiding in plain sight — it is completely free to visit all year round.

History buffs are in for a treat as a massive Roman amphitheatre is hiding in plain sight right here in the UK.

Nestled next to Cirencester — the largest town in the Cotswolds — lie the earthwork remains of a gigantic amphitheatre, which at its height, was one of the biggest Roman amphitheatres in Britain.

History of the amphitheatre

Constructed in the early 2nd century AD – when Cirencester was known as the Roman city of Corinium and was second only to London in size and population – this amphitheatre could accommodate up to 8,000 spectators. The Cirencester Amphitheatre began life as a simple quarry, with the majority of the stone used to build the town believed to have come from it.

By the time most of the town had been built, its layout already closely resembled that of an amphitheatre, complete with tiered seating.

In modern-day Britain, the Cirencester Amphitheatre is considered one of the largest surviving examples from the Roman occupation of the island. After the Roman army departed Britain in AD 408, life in Cirencester quickly declined without their pay, which was a key support for the local economy and helped maintain order.

With no central authority to take the reins, the town’s urban heart was left lifeless. Private benefactors who had promised to fund public games were conspicuously absent. This led to the amphitheatre being abandoned as a place of entertainment, and in a brave bid to keep their community alive, the town leaders transformed the renowned structure into a fortress.

A trench was carved along the southern side of the building, and its entrances were made narrower. However, these efforts seemed futile, as by AD 577, a stronghold thought to be Cirencester was reported to have succumbed to the advancing Saxons. The amphitheatre then lay deserted for several centuries.

Archaeologists have since unearthed remnants of timber buildings from the 5th century at the once-celebrated site. During the Middle Ages, it is said that the Abbot of Cirencester enclosed the area to use it as a rabbit warren. Its local moniker, ‘the Bull Ring’, suggests that it may have later been used for bull-baiting – a potential nod to its original Roman-era purpose.

Architecture and Structure

Unlike the circular designs of the amphitheatres at Silchester and Dorchester, the Cirencester Amphitheatre was oval-shaped, with an entrance at each end of the structure’s longer axis.

The vast earth banks, the only remnants of the once towering structure, held rows of wooden seats built on terraced drystone walls. It’s thought that there was also a standing area for spectators within the building, reports Gloucestershire Live. The amphitheatre’s seating area alone could accommodate around 8,000 people — a figure not far off from the entire population of Corinium at the time (approximately 10,000).

A wall separated the audience from the arena, which was covered with sand and fine gravel. During a later renovation, two small chambers were built on either side of the entrance’s inner end. Indications suggest that one of them was dedicated to Nemesis, the goddess often honoured in amphitheatres from the Roman Empire.

Getting there

Cirencester Amphitheatre is free to explore as it’s not a ticketed site. However, visitors should be aware that some parts of the site are uneven, making them unsuitable for wheelchair users. There’s also a small flight of stairs at the entrance of the structure which may pose an accessibility challenge.

Dog owners are welcome to bring their pets to Cirencester Amphitheatre, provided they are kept on leads. Free parking is available in the car park at the eastern end of Cotswold Avenue, and shops, toilets, and food outlets can be found in the nearby Cirencester town centre.

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Lustleigh is a stunning village that you’ve likely never heard of – unless you live in South Devon, that is. The hidden gem is a perfect destination to visit this autumn

Lustleigh is a breathtaking village you’ve probably never come across – unless you happen to live in South Devon. This tucked-away treasure makes for an ideal autumn getaway, with its charming thatched cottages and meandering lanes creating the sensation of having travelled back through the centuries.

Nestled within Dartmoor National Park’s boundaries, Lustleigh radiates “timeless charm and natural beauty,” the Visit South Devon website states. It’s not difficult to understand why, given the village regularly features on countless lists celebrating Britain’s most picturesque settlements.

The surrounding area has been inhabited since prehistoric times, with historians and archaeologists unearthing stone hut circle remnants and evidence of Stone Age occupation.

Some historians suggest the settlement appeared under the name Suðeswyrðe in Alfred the Great’s will, where he bequeathed the town to his youngest son Æthelweard. It subsequently appeared in the Domesday Book as Sutreworde in 1086.

Nevertheless, others contend that Sutreworde wasn’t today’s Lustleigh, but rather existed at a neighbouring location. Regardless, the village’s heritage clearly extends far into the past, reports the Express.

During the 19th century, the neighbouring settlement of Wrayland merged with Lustleigh, and the magnificent Grade-II listed Wreyland Manor has stayed within the village’s boundaries ever since.

Those keen to explore Lustleigh’s heritage should head straight for the beautiful church of St. John the Baptist and the renowned Primrose Tea Rooms.

The tea rooms occupy one of the village’s historic thatched properties and have earned praise from TripAdvisor visitors.

One reviewer remarked: “Beautiful place to visit. Excellent food and service.

“Everything is to such a high standard and so delicious. I can’t wait to visit again. The afternoon tea is fantastic!”.

Another guest commented: “My first visit and I was very pleased with the outstanding service and the wonderful cream tea. The tea room was bright and airy with lovely decor.”

The establishment operates seasonally from spring through late autumn, so visitors are advised to confirm opening times before travelling.

Whilst the tearoom closes during winter months, the area remains an attractive destination year-round. Christmas visitors shouldn’t miss the beloved Boxing Day duck race at Lustleigh Park, which has become a cherished annual tradition.

Earlier in the calendar, the May Day festivities on the first Saturday in May offer another highlight. This time-honoured celebration features a village procession, traditional maypole dancing, and the ceremonial crowning of the May Queen.

This picturesque island off of the coast of Northern Ireland stands out for its unique charm and natural beauty, as it sits completely isolated from the rest of the UK

Tucked away and untouched by mass tourism, this remote island provides the perfect retreat for anyone wanting to reconnect with nature and breathe in the crisp coastal air.

Rathlin Island boasts an incredible array of wildlife, making it an idyllic destination in Northern Ireland for birdwatching and walking, with a tranquillity that only a community of just 150 residents could provide. And yet, they share their home with tens of thousands of seabirds.

The Rathlin Seabird Centre provides a magnificent vantage point to watch the delightful antics of puffins, razorbills and kittiwakes in their natural surroundings. Additionally, seals are frequently spotted basking on the rocks, whilst Irish hares and mink can be seen wandering across the terrain.

One visitor shared their experience on TripAdvisor, saying: “The beautiful and peaceful place. Very little tourism, but it’s not needed; everything is basic, normal everyday life. It’s so simple just to walk the island.

“We have done this on several occasions and walk to each lighthouse. I recommend getting the bus to the bird sanctuary, as it’s quite a walk and very hilly. The scenery is like you will never have seen before.”, reports Belfast Live.

Thanks to the distinctive shape of this small island, it features three stunning lighthouses, each with its own character. Next to the seabird centre stands the West Lighthouse, renowned for being Ireland’s only upside-down lighthouse and an essential stop on any visit.

The East Lighthouse, Rathlin’s oldest, stands tall on the edge of a cave that is steeped in history. It’s said that this very cave was the refuge of Robert the Bruce in 1306 after his defeat in Scotland.

Legend tells us that while hiding away, he found inspiration from a spider to continue his fight for Scottish independence. This tale has forever linked him with the island, and many visitors come to pay their respects at the cave, gazing out towards Scotland from Rathlin.

One satisfied visitor said: “The scenery is mind-blowing, and taking the bus up to the lighthouse and bird sanctuary was fantastic. So much to see, and not just puffins. Lots of other nesting birds, plus the old upside-down lighthouse. Just very cool.”

Another tourist wrote: “A perfect day on an idyllic and unspoilt island. From start to finish… from the scenic crossing to the cold drink at McCuaig’s bar overlooking the swimmers and paddle boarders in Church Bay (at the end of a long walk on a sunny day), Rathlin has everything you could desire.”

However, the only way to reach Rathlin Island is by ferry from Ballycastle Harbour. You have two options: a passenger-only ferry that takes about 25-30 minutes, or a larger ferry that accommodates both people and cars, which takes up to 45 minutes.

It seems the nation’s favourite beach has been named – and it’s nestled on the eastern coast

Gorleston-on-Sea Beach, a gem on the Norfolk coast just south of Great Yarmouth, has been crowned with the TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Best of the Best award, placing it amongst Europe’s top holiday destinations. The UK beach, renowned for its stunning views and golden sands, finds itself in good company, rubbing shoulders with popular spots in Greece and Spain.

The coveted ‘Best of the Best’ accolade is bestowed upon beaches that consistently receive glowing reviews on TripAdvisor over a year. With fewer than 1% of the 8 million listings achieving this milestone, Gorleston-on-Sea Beach stands tall on an impressive pedestal.

Visitors to the beach can enjoy views of grassy cliffs, engage in a game of pitch and putt, or try their hand at bowling greens, tennis and basketball. For the little ones, there’s a playground, a model yacht pond and a splashpad.

One of the major attractions is the free parking, coupled with public toilets, including facilities for disabled visitors. Known for its popularity among surfers and body boarders, Gorleston-on-Sea beach is a hit with water sports enthusiasts.

Just a five-minute stroll away is the town centre, brimming with shops, cafes, and amusements for visitors to explore.

Gorleston boasts an Edwardian theatre offering seaside shows throughout the year, reports the Express.

For those who enjoy a good walk, a trim-trail on the cliff top offers breathtaking views of the beach and harbour.

One holidaymaker shared their glowing review on TripAdvisor, stating: “A lovely place to visit. Lots of space and not overcrowded.

“A great play park on the clifftop which we had to ourselves even in school holidays. Few cafes and good toilet facilities. Lovely and clean area.”

Another visitor was charmed by its “old fashioned charm” and “miles of sandy beach”, while a third praised the “beautiful beach and calming atmosphere”.

Another tourist gushed: “Beautiful beach, so clean, so long and so relaxing. Sandy parts, stony parts, lots of lovely views. Amenities nearby and public loos.”

Yet another posted: “Beautiful beach with all that you need for a lovely family day at the beach. Drinks, ice cream and delicious fish and chips. Added bonus of plenty of free parking. Would defo recommend.”

Gorleston is touted as an excellent base for exploring Norfolk and Suffolk, and it’s a breeze to get there from Great Yarmouth, whether by car or public transport.

There are several bus services that run between Great Yarmouth and Gorleston.

In the muffled silence all I can hear is the crunch and squeak of snow underfoot. The white path ahead of me meanders skyward through forests of larch and pine, their boughs glittering with snow. When I look back, I can see for miles – an icily beautiful panorama of crags and peaks.

I’m in the Lower Engadine, in remote south-east Switzerland, thanks to a tip shared by my Swiss friend Kaspar, when I was pondering a winter walking holiday away from the crowds. Over two weeks I’ll be exploring this fairytale landscape alone, following well-marked trails.