hidden

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?

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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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From city to sea… Büyükada, the largest of Istanbul’s Princes’ Islands, is a must for those in search of peace

If you’re looking for some peace amid the hustle and bustle of your trip to Istanbul, enter Büyükada, the largest of the Princes’ Islands. A short public ferry or boat taxi away from the mainland, they make up a car-free archipelago in the Sea of Marmara known for their historic mansions and laid back atmosphere. Absolutely ideal for families, Büyükada is small enough to explore in a day or two, with plenty of relaxed activities, from cycling to swimming to swimming.

Where to stay

You want… peace

Princes’ Palace

A chic and calm five star resort on the water’s edge, Princes’ Palace manages to appeal to adults looking to relax and unwind, and children looking for some fun. Newly opened, rooms are stunning – sleek and modern, with views over the Bosphorus. The hotel boasts its own jetty, and arriving by water taxi is a delight, although you can also arrive to the island by a regular public ferry.

On hot days, a small private beach, sheltered by the jetty, and an outdoor pool lined with Bali beds means you need never leave. Inside, there’s a further pool, with a large hot tub and plenty of relaxation areas. There’s a hammam too, and a gorgeous spa. Children are welcomed in the pool area, which has lovely views, especially at sunset. Dinner in the upmarket restaurant, designed to look like a library with cosy nooks and squashy seats, was delicious. Rooms start from around £393.

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Where to eat

Eskibag Teras

A fish and seafood restaurant with a stunning view out over the water, Eskibag was one of the highlights of our entire trip. The children loved choosing their food from the counter (a whole seabass, calamari, garlic prawns) which was then cooked fresh and served.

What to do

Hire a bike

The best way to see the island, which is amazingly car-free, is by bike. There are plenty of bike shops offering hire for just a couple of pounds. It took us a few goes to find baby and child seats, but once we did it was well worth it. It takes around two hours to cycle around Büyükada and the views alone are worth the exertion. But there are also plenty of spots to rest, including a lovely cafe under the trees, with swings for the children, cold drinks, and lots of cats.

Wander the promenade

The shopping centre of Büyükada can be found just steps away from the ferry port. There are plenty of shops to explore, and eateries for the hungry. But the best thing to do? Grab an ice cream (three scoops if you dare!) from one of the theatrical sellers on the seafront, and take a walk along the promenade. Enjoy the boats, the lapping shore and the view across the water to Istanbul.

Istanbul with children in tow is easier than you think…

Choosing where to travel with children can be tough. But when I tell you that you need to add Istanbul to your family travel bucket list, it’s no lie. I’m a mum of two and as a family of four we like to travel extensively. And when choosing where our wanderlust will take us, there needs to be something for each of us to enjoy. So I’m pleased to report that Istanbul in Turkey ticked boxes for all of us: me, John, five year old Molly and one year old Poppy. From mouthwatering food to incredible historic sites – and a brilliant fairytale sweet shop – we fell in love… and I think you will too. Istanbul has it all. Here’s why…

When to go

As with all of Turkey, Istanbul can reach searing temperatures in summer. And as sightseeing as a family in the heat can be a bit, well, testing, I would advise that the best time to check it out with little ones in tow is between October and May. We went in October half term. Temperatures rose no higher than around 20 degrees. While we couldn’t swim in an outdoor pool or the Bosphorus, it was really pleasant to walk around in T-shirts and jeans.

Is it safe?

When chatting about Istanbul with friends before we went the same question kept coming up: is it safe? And I’m pleased to report that whether day or night the city felt very safe indeed. There is beefed up security at the entrances to places like the Grand Bazaar market, tourist sites like the Basilica Cistern and many upmarket hotels. But the city has a relaxed vibe to it – people are friendly and absolutely love children. Istanbul welcomed us with open arms.

Where to stay

You want… to be in the thick of it

Four Seasons Sultanahmet

Right in the heart of the old city, the five star Four Seasons Sultanahmet is just steps away from the Blue Mosque, main square, endless shopping – and you can see the Hagia Sofia from the hotel’s open air rooftop bar. With delicious food and drink on offer, the rooftop welcomes children to enjoy the views too, which are particularly spectacular at sunset. Hearing the call to prayer ring out around the city gives you goosebumps.

Elsewhere, for the foodies, there’s fine dining eatery Avlu; a lovely little coffee shop in the foyer, which does a good flat white; and exceptional in-room dining. With kids in tow on our travel, when deciding what and where to eat I choose ease… and the extensive room service menu, quick service and good food, provided exactly that for us. Rooms themselves at the FS Sultanahmet are spacious, luxurious and have everything you could possibly want, from Diptyque toiletries to expensive sheets and artisan robes.

The hotel doesn’t have a pool, but a shuttle takes guests for free to nearby Four Seasons at the Bosphorus to use the two they have there. Staff on site couldn’t do more to help their guests, and remember names and coffee orders in the morning. Children are welcomed with open arms, and are gifted toys on arrival. A play tent was set up in the room too, which was a lovely touch and provided lots of fun. But the best bit? The building used to be a prison! My five year old absolutely loved that she was ‘staying in jail’. Prices from around £650.

You want… pools

Those two pools I mentioned… well they belong to Four Seasons’ other location in Istanbul: Four Seasons at the Bosphorus. Set, as the name suggests, right on the strait that runs through the middle of the city, it allows for glorious views over the water from many of the rooms. A renovated 19th century Ottoman palace, the grand five star hotel is pretty impressive to look at itself too. The word splendor springs to mind. Rooms are beautiful, light and airy with squishy window seats and gargantuan beds. One night, during our stay, there was an incredible thunderstorm. We turned all the lights off, snuggled up on a window seat, and watched the sky for hours. Magic. In both Four Seasons locations, nappies, bubble bath, wipes and more were supplied in a handy – and much appreciated – basket of baby essentials.

One for the water babies, FS Bosphorus has an outdoor pool (although this was too cold for us to frequent in October) and an indoor pool, which welcomes children around the clock. Molly loved this, and the hot tub. When it comes to food, seafood restaurant Aqua is completely divine, as is Middle Eastern-inspired Ocakbasi. With tired children, though, the in-room dining options available were sublime. An extensive menu for both adults curious to try the local cuisine… and little ones hankering after a margarita pizza… were catered for.

Toys on arrival delighted the children, in-room games provided screen-free entertainment after a day of sightseeing, and a seemingly never-ending array of tasty treats appeared in the room. Prices from around £650.

What to do

Hagia Sofia

Cavernous. Majestic. Awe inspiring. The Hagia Sofia (Holy Wisdom) is the biggest must-do of Istanbul. A monumental building with a rich history, it was originally built as the greatest church of the Byzantine Empire in 537 AD, later converted into an Ottoman mosque after 1453, then a secular museum in 1934, and reconverted into a mosque in 2020, making it a significant cultural landmark representing centuries of religious and architectural evolution. It’s famous for its massive dome and stunning mosaics. As a working mosque, it is fascinating to behold, especially for the children. Visitors can walk around the gallery on the upper level to take it all in.

Blue Mosque

At a mere 400-odd years old, the Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque) is almost new in comparison to the Hagia Sofia – but the stunning building is also steeped in history. An iconic 17th-century imperial mosque, it’s famous for its stunning blue tiles, six minarets, and grand domes, blending traditional Islamic and Byzantine styles to create a masterpiece of Ottoman architecture, serving as both a historical landmark and an active place of worship.

Basilica Cistern

The Basilica Cistern was one of the places that took us most by surprise – it’s absolutely amazing. A massive, ancient (Roman) underground water reservoir built by the Byzantines in the 6th century to supply the Great Palace, it’s famous for its forest of marble columns, eerie lighting, Medusa head bases, and atmospheric setting that makes it a major tourist attraction. The cool location has served as a dramatic filming location for several major films – most famously the James Bond movie From Russia with Love (1963) and Inferno (2016) starring Tom Hanks.

Grand Bazaar

The Grand Bazaar (Kapalıçarşı) in Istanbul is one of the world’s oldest, largest, and most famous covered markets. A historic labyrinth of over 4,000 shops across 61 streets, selling everything from carpets, ceramics, and jewelry to spices, Turkish delights, and souvenirs, it attracts millions of visitors annually as a major cultural and commercial hub in the city’s heart. It’s known for its vibrant atmosphere, historic architecture, and the tradition of bargaining, making it a quintessential Istanbul experience. We bought spices to take home, and a stunning handcrafted bowl.

Turkish delight

No trip to Istanbul would be complete without a haul of Turkish delight. A traditional Middle Eastern confection made from a gel of sugar, starch (usually cornstarch), and water, it’s often flavored with rosewater, citrus, or mastic, and sometimes filled with nuts like pistachios or walnuts. These small, soft, jelly-like cubes are typically dusted with powdered sugar or coconut to prevent sticking and are served with coffee or tea as a sweet treat. Oh so very moreish – there are shops everywhere you look to try and buy.

Where to eat

Calakasik, Kadikoy

Kadikoy is one of Istanbul’s coolest neighbourhoods, with antique shops aplenty. And for the hungry, there’s Calakasik. A very unassuming-looking ‘local’ looking restaurant, it’s relaxed, lively and serves absolutely incredible Turkish food – canteen style. Come hungry and choose lots of dishes to share – try the zeama, kebabs and peka.

Deraliye Ottoman Cuisine

Michelin Guide 2025 recommended, Deraliye serves authentic, historical Ottoman palace dishes, featuring rich flavors from Turkish, Balkan, Middle Eastern, and Central Asian traditions, with unique recipes including goose kebab, stuffed fruits like apples/quince with minced meat, unique grape leaf wraps (sarma) with cherries, and traditional dips (muammara, babaganoush) alongside grilled meats, pastries, and rich desserts like Katmer . I had an exceptional lamb kebab, with onions, grilled tomatoes and peppers and rice. The kids had meatballs and loved them.

Muutto

An anatolian tapas bar sat by the side of the Bosphorus in a new development at Galataport cruise ship port. When there isn’t a boat, it’s a lovely place for a shop and a stroll, with loads of bars and eateries lining the waters edge. Serving modern Anatolian tapas (mezze) and street food, Muutto offers creative twists on traditional Turkish dishes like potato bravas, stuffed meatballs, octopus, lamb wraps, and unique items such as liver with halloumi, alongside homemade drinks and a focus on fresh, flavourful small plates for lunch and dinner. Even the dips were a work of art.

*For more on planning a trip to Türkiye, see Go Türkiye

*Return flights with Turkish Airlines or SunExpress from Manchester to Istanbul start from around £185 per person (checked November 2025). Flights take approximately 4 hours and 15 minutes.

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This beautiful Christmas market has been dubbed one of the “most beautiful” in Europe thanks to its picturesque backdrop and winter atmosphere as travellers are left “in tears” at sight of it

If you are tired of the expensive Christmas markets nestled amongst city squares, this beautiful location could be your answer to feeling extra festive this season. The Ravenna Gorge Christmas Market offers something very different.

Hidden deep in the Black Forest’s Höllental (Hell Valley), this market doesn’t rely on medieval town halls for its backdrop. Instead, it is nestled in a steep, wooded canyon beneath a towering stone viaduct. The magic happens when the sun sets.

The massive stone arches of the railway bridge are illuminated in shifting violets, blues, and reds. Every twenty minutes or so, a regional train rumbles overhead, looking like a toy train in the distance, while snow (often reliable here) dusts the wooden huts below.

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Travellers Claudia and Kaan, from Toronto, US, visited the German market last week and were shocked when they stumbled upon the picture-perfect scene.

The couple wrote on their TikTok video: “We nearly cried. Tucked deep in the Black Forest with a massive stone viaduct glowing above you is one of Europe’s most beautiful Christmas Markets.”

Those who have visited have argued it’s one of the most romantic markets, with the isolation of the gorge meaning no background city noise and a backdrop of brass bands, the crunch of snow and the murmur of the crowd.

It’s also less busy than most Christmas markets thanks to its ticketed system and timed entry, avoiding the dangerous overcrowding seen at major markets like Cologne or Munich.

2025 Guide

Dates & Opening Hours

The market is only open on weekends (Fri-Sun) during Advent.

• Dates: Nov 28 – Dec 21, 2025
• Fridays: 3:00 PM – 9:00 PM
• Saturdays: 2:00 PM – 9:00 PM
• Sundays: 2:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Ticket Prices (2025 Estimates)

Entry is strictly ticketed. You cannot buy tickets at the gate.

• Adults: €6.50/£5.71 (entry before 4 PM) / €8.50/£7.46 (entry after 4 PM)
• Children (6-15): Free entry (but may need a shuttle ticket)
• Golden Rule: Tickets go on sale in mid-October (usually Oct 14th). Set an alarm; the evening slots sell out within days.

How to Get There

Due to its remote location, you can’t drive up to the market gate. Private parking is non-existent at the gorge itself for general visitors.

1. The Shuttle Bus

Most visitors take the shuttle bus. When you buy your market ticket online, you must select your shuttle departure point.

• From Hinterzarten or Himmelreich: These are the main shuttle hubs with parking lots and train stations. You park there (or arrive by train) and take the 10-minute bus ride.
• From Freiburg: There is a direct shuttle from Freiburg main station (approx 30 mins).
• Cost: Approx. €24/£21 (includes market entry and roundtrip bus). This is the stress-free “VIP” option if you are staying in the city.

2. The Winter Hike

For the full Black Forest experience, skip the bus and walk.

• The Route: Park in Hinterzarten and hike the Löffeltal path.
• Details: It is a paved, cleared winter hiking trail that takes about 45–60 minutes. It is downhill/flat on the way there.
• Torchlight: Many visitors bring headlamps or torches for the walk back, though the shuttle is a welcome sight for tired legs on the return journey.

Food and drink

The market hosts around 40 wooden chalets. The focus here is strictly regional, meaning local delicacies and small businesses.

A cup of mulled wine can be as cheap as €5/£4.30, while food costs vary.

• Wildschweinbratwurst: Wild boar sausage, a specialty of the forest.
• Flammlachs: Salmon smoked over an open fire on wooden planks.
• Black Forest Ham: Sold by the slab to take home.
• Glühwein: The mulled wine here is excellent, often made from local Badischer wine.
• Dünnele: A regional flatbread similar to Flammkuchen, topped with sour cream, bacon, and onions.

Tips for visiting

• Dress for the cold: The gorge traps cold air. It will be significantly colder here than in nearby Freiburg. Wear thermal boots; you will be standing on snow or frozen gravel for hours.
• Cash to hand: While some vendors take cards, signal in the gorge is spotty. Bring plenty of Euro coins and small bills.
• The “Magic Hour”: Book the 4pm-6pm slot. You arrive in twilight to see the gorge features, and by 5:00 PM, the lights are fully on for the complete experience.

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A visit to San Francisco comes with culture, history and adventure, Craig Jones found out as he explored a city that brought the world a very famous bridge and the Grateful Dead

“The symbolism of San Francisco, since its very origins, is that this is the edge of the world. It has always represented some kind of frontier.”

It doesn’t take being by the bay all that long for the resonance of those words, from The Beat Museum’s art director Brandon Loberg, to truly hit home. The Golden City is a cultural colossus. But be under no illusion, San Fran is famous for a lot more than a bridge, Alcatraz and Mrs Doubtfire. As I found out during a tour of the hidden gems of the city.

The aforementioned museum is dedicated to the Beat Generation, an influential 1950s movement comprising notable writers such as Jack Kerouac and Allen Ginsberg, whose quest for tolerance and compassion remains relevant in 2025.

You’ll find the museum across from the legendary City Lights bookshop in the North Beach district. Don’t let the name deceive you, as San Francisco really isn’t that kind of coastal Californian city.

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Instead, North Beach is a rich, flavoursome tapestry of Italian-American identity. Since 1956, creatives have sought inspiration over coffee and pastries at Caffe Trieste, while Tony’s Pizza Napoletana celebrates Naples’ finest export with considerable acclaim. Tony Gemignani’s pizzas regularly take pride of place in round-ups of the world’s best.

After such indulgence, a stroll around the neighbouring Washington Square Park wouldn’t be the worst idea. Overlooking it is Saints Peter and Paul Church, where screen siren Marilyn Monroe married baseball legend Joe DiMaggio in 1954. For those after a small piece of iconic showbiz sparkle.

While there’s certainly a vast history to discover, San Fran is undeniably at the forefront of the here and now. Evidenced most visually in the Waymo taxis operating in the city. If you are brave enough, you can take a trip to the future in one of the 200 driverless cars. Fresh from nearby Silicon Valley, simply fire up an app, and you’ll soon be zig-zagging down Lombard Street without having to make small talk – you can also hook up any embarrassing music as loud as you like without guilt.

Whatever mode of transport you prefer, a stop at the tie-dye haven of Haight-Ashbury is an absolute must. It is synonymous with The Summer of Love, a real moment in American counterculture which saw an estimated 100,000 people come together, back in 1967, for a spiritual awakening that left a lasting imprint on society.

Pam Brennan is someone who lived the experience. When we met, she provided a vivid picture of the time and its legacy through her Haight-Ashbury Flower Power walking tour. “We used to call ourselves freaks as they made hippies seem desperate – then we claimed the word hippy back,” she told me.

Music greats Janis Joplin, Joni Mitchell and Jimi Hendrix were championed in Haight-Ashbury – you’ll find a mural dedicated to the latter overlooking Haight’s fine array of wonderful thrift stores and eateries. The renowned Amoeba Music record shop is an ideal place to grab something from one of the area’s musical, and cultural, trailblazers.

Ask any true Haight-Ashbury local and The Grateful Dead stand above all the area’s other music artists, as great as many of them were. This year has marked the 60th anniversary of the band, formed by Jerry Garcia, Bob Weir, Ron ‘Pigpen’ McKernan, Phil Lesh and Bill Kreutzmann, with a series of events honouring their songs and, most importantly, their influence. Still today, ‘Deadheads’ from all over the world make the pilgrimage, for a selfie outside the distinctive purple house in Ashbury Street where the group resided with manager Rock Scully – back in the 1960s.

The Counterculture Museum, which is based on Haight Street and opened earlier this year, has a special Grateful Dead section alongside exhibits on San Fran’s significance in pioneering the LGBTQIA+ movement, the city’s battle for racial justice, and equality for women.

During a stay at Hotel Zepplin, in Post Street, you’ll identify subtle nods to San Francisco’s role in forefronting important social causes. The hotel, which describes itself as ‘a love letter to rebels and revolutionaries’, has 196 rooms, a gym and an accompanying diner called PLS on Post.

The significance of the Grateful Dead’s anniversary hasn’t been lost on the music-themed accommodation with record players and a selection of vinyl, coming as standard in suites alongside a sweet, cherry Garcia ice cream.

It is often said that if you can’t eat well in San Francisco, then there’s something very wrong. The Californian city is considered a culinary gem. A stone’s throw (in American distances…) from Hotel Zeppelin is Bombay Brasserie, which has a menu full of dishes celebrating flavours from India’s diverse regions.

While Hook Fish presents a relaxed, casual neighbourhood atmosphere. The seafood joint is an ideal perch to refuel after a no-rush stroll at Sunset Dunes Park. You’ll find elegance and a cocktail menu demanding to be conquered at celeb chef Tyler Florence’s Wayfare Tavern. An unrivalled spot where the hours quickly float by, feasting on elevated American classics.

Whether in the sun or under the blanket of ‘Karl’, the city’s infamous fog, a ferry trip passing the Golden Gate Bridge and crossing to Sausalito ends with some of the most magnificent Italian cuisine imaginable.

Food and an authentic deep dive into San Francisco’s heritage can be explored during a walking tour with the aptly named Stretchy Pants group. The Mission district saunter provides a bite of life in the mainly Latin-American area, channelling the important stories its food tells. The message is clear, as guide Robert Magee states: “This area has always been a bastion of resistance to the establishment.”

This is echoed by gazing upon the Mission’s mesmeric murals. Enchanting in their colourful splendour, while pulling no punches. My Stretchy Pants experience concluded in the Castro neighbourhood. A groundbreaking, joyous celebration of the LGBTQIA+ movement. Vibrant and welcoming, it is home to the renowned Castro Theatre alongside a number of clubs and bars.

The Twin Peaks, housed on the corner of Castro and 17th, is a must-visit. It was the first American gay bar to have transparent plate-glass windows – that clear act of defiance was an inspiration to others. Next door there’s Hot Cookie where, let’s just say, many ‘playful’ sweet treats can be devoured. Let your imagination flow on that one…

For certain, there’s a memorable night out waiting in Castro. There’s much vibrancy to San Fran’s nightlife offering. Elsewhere, you can feel the history in the walls of The Great American Music Hall with it dating back to 1907. An Evening with Robin Williams, from San Francisco’s much-missed adopted son, was filmed there in 1982. While this year, the brilliantly bonkers Misfit Cabaret celebrated their 10th anniversary – they are irregular regulars at the O’Farrell Street institution.

Another diverse thread to the city’s cultural cloth comes in the shape of the annual festival Super Flex. The contemporary arts event takes over Chinatown’s streets. Among many 2025 highlights, seeing a hugely talented DJ orchestrate a street rave as he played an Earth, Wind, and Fire mix from a gigantic animatronic fish was something truly unique to behold.

After all that, a rest might be needed. A relaxing one can be found at the Kimpton Alton Hotel in the family-focused Fisherman’s Wharf area. The hotel offers 248 accommodation options, including spacious rooms and suites. It also has record players in their rooms, allowing you to give your Amoeba purchases a spin – additionally, you’ll find a selection of the Kimpton Alton’s picks in your room.

The hotel has a gym and Filipino restaurant Abacá serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. It is where yours truly discovered a fondness for ube. The purple yam, native to the Philippines, added an extremely bold and striking composition to an evening cocktail.

Fully recharged, Pier 39, and the Wharf’s other tourist attractions are on your doorstep – alongside some stunning water views. You can actually experience the latter first-hand by taking a solo expedition, on the waves, courtesy of City Kayak – based beside Oracle Park, the home of the San Francisco Giants baseball team. There are routes for all abilities, beginner to club level, where you’ll almost certainly encounter one of San Fran’s native sea lions.

Once I’d stopped spinning in circles, I followed a number of Giants fans on the waves to Oracle Park, where some supporters watch the games, for free, from the stadium’s big screen, bobbing in their kayaks with a beer. If you love sport, this ritual is such a one-of-a-kind experience. Later, I also got to enjoy the action, from the stands, inside Oracle Park as the Giants hosted their rivals, the LA Dodgers.

As you head on the home run, the adorable Wag Brigade will make one last cute play in persuading you to extend your stay. Consisting of a team of adorable dogs, the pawsome San Francisco Airport initiative, launched in 2013, aims to make plane travel a little less stressful as they patrol SFO’s terminals.

Back home, you’ll be barking enthusiastically, reciting San Francisco’s tales.

Book the holiday

• Rooms at The Hotel Zeppelin start from $179 (approximately £133). You can book at zhotelssf.com.
• Kimpton Alton Hotel rooms start from $685 a night (approximately £512) and can be booked at altonhotelsf.com.
• British Airways flies from London Heathrow to San Francisco from £489 return, including taxes and carrier fees. Book on ba.com.
• You can find further information by visiting www.sftravel.com.

A NEW tourist attraction tucked under railway arches, is coming to the UK.

The Weir Mill development in Stockport, near Manchester, will be located under the town’s iconic railway viaduct.

The Grade-II listed mill will be transformed to feature street food pop-ups, parties, al fresco dining areas and host live music and entertainment.

In the new attraction, there will be a number of different food and drink venues including 10 new bars, restaurants and cafes.

In total, there will be 6,000sqm of outdoor space with planted areas, a riverside terrace and a courtyard at the heart of the destination.

The attraction will be split into six distinct areas: Weir Mill East, The Courtyard, Weavers Square, West Shed, The Waterfront and Wheelhouse, and finally, Chestergate and King Street West.

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At Weir Mill East there will be a rooftop terrace and cafe.

Then at The Courtyard, there will be a number of planted areas with seating as well.

Weavers Square will be the focal point of the development, sat underneath the viaduct and where the markets and pop-ups will take place.

West Shed will be an indoor space with red brick and vaulted ceilings, where people can sit with their laptop and a coffee.

The Waterfront and Wheelhouse will then be an area great for viewing the viaduct itself, with the Wheelhouse converted into a resident gym, lounge and working space.

And finally, at Chestergate and King Street West is where visitors will find most of the stores as well as the trans-pennine way cycle path running alongside this part of the site.

Many of the buildings at the development will feature the same red colour as the machinery found at the mill.

The new destination, which is set to be completed next spring, will also feature 253 homes.

Councillor Micheala Meikle, Stockport Council cabinet member for economy, skills and regeneration, said: “Our town centre regeneration is about more than building new homes, it’s about creating vibrant neighbourhoods and breathing new life into Stockport’s heritage, giving our historic buildings a future.

“While the Grade-II listed former mill is being carefully restored for residents, the new public square will create opportunities for independent businesses to thrive and for people from across the borough to come and enjoy our buzzing town centre.

“It’s incredibly exciting to see how our riverside will soon be opened up into an inviting outdoor space where communities can come together over great food, live music, and creative events from day to night.”

The first food and drink venues at the destination are set to be announced soon.

Weir Mill on the River Mersey in Stockport, dates back to 1790 when it was used as a cotton works.

During the 19th century, the importance of the mill grew as it became a key part of Stockport’s industrialisation.

In 1840, the Stockport Viaduct was then built over the mill and has since become a historic landmark.

In other tourist attraction news, the exciting new hotels, attractions and festivals coming to the UK’s seaside towns and cities next year.

Plus, the top 15 UK attractions for 2025 revealed.