holidays

Loose Women star reveals the pretty UK seaside towns that her family say are BETTER than trips abroad

HALF-TERM is nearly here and while some families are looking to head abroad, Loose Women star Katie Piper says, why not stay closer to home?

For beautiful beaches, plenty of family-friendly hotels and hopefully some sun – head to Kent.

Katie Piper shares one of her favourite staycation spots that’s perfect for half-termCredit: ITV
Margate Old Town has plenty of trendy cafesCredit: Alamy

Talking to Sun Travel about her recent ITV series, The Great Escapers, Katie Piper revealed that as a family, she loves heading to the UK coast – and it all started when she was a child.

She told us: “My mum and dad didn’t have a lot of money, so we didn’t really go abroad.

“Instead, we went Kent most years; MargateDeal, and Broadstairs.

“We’d watch Punch and Judy on the beach, there would be donkey rides and we’d eat big sticks of rock and go to the arcades – we absolutely loved it.

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“I’ve taken my girls back to the very same places, and actually now Margate has had a total makeover – it’s a really nice place to take them back to.”

Here are some of our top tips for each of her favourite spots.

Margate

Margate has been a popular spot for Brits since the 1730s thanks to its sprawling beach, Margate’s Main Sands.

But in February can also wander through Old Town, visit the Old Kent Market and check out the beautiful Shell Grotto or Margate Caves.

With Dreamland closed until April, head to The Wonder Works instead which is filled with model railways and Scalextrics – tickets for adults are £5 and children can explore for £2.50.

Or for more entertainment, there’s also Lost Island Adventure Golf to play mini golf or AR darts.

When it comes to where to eat, head to Palms Pizzeria, a New York-style pizzeria in The Centre that serves massive pizza slices for £4.

For more attractions and restaurants check out these recommendations from locals.

When it comes to staying in Margate a family of four can book a night at the Seaside Escape Two-Bed Apartment for £108 (based on a one-night stay on February 16, 2026).

The self-catering apartment has beachfront access and pretty garden views.

Deal has a long pebble beach and pretty pierCredit: Alamy
One night in Broadstairs can cost as little as £165per night for a family of fourCredit: Alamy

Deal

The relaxed seaside town of Deal is an ideal spot if you want a more chill place to explore.

It has a pebble beach with a 1950s pier with a cafe at the very end.

There are lots of sites to visit like Deal Castle, as well as plenty of features family-friendly cafes, ice cream parlours, and several pubs with play areas like The Coach and The Crown Inn.

Head to Betteshanger Country Park for mountain bike trails and adventure playground.

A one-night stay for a family of four at the Royal Hotel in Deal starts from £160 (based on a one-night stay on February 16, 2026).

The 3-star hotel sits on the seafront in Deal – and the stay includes breakfast.

Broadstairs

Down the coast from Margate is the pretty seaside town of Broadstairs.

The main beach is Viking Bay and for fish and chips, head to The Mermaid restaurant.

For games, head to Broadstairs Leisure amusements for arcades or try out some putting at Lillyputt.

If the weather doesn’t play ball, then you can head indoors to the trampoline parks at Elev8.

The seaside town is also home to Morelli’s Gelato which has been serving fresh ice cream since 1932.

In Broadstairs, a family room in The Royal Albion right on the promenade costs £165 per night (based on a one-night stay on February 16, 2026) and includes breakfast.

As for where Katie is off to next – she reveals the stop is still in the UK.

Katie told us: “We’re looking into a trip at the moment that we want to do in the Easter which is to go to Scotland.

“We’re trying to plan to do it on the sleeper train because it’s a bit of an adventure to go on a sleeper train and my kids have never done that.

“We’ve got a dog now. We got a puppy this year if we go on a sleeper train, then we can take her on the train with us.”

To read more on the Caledonian Sleeper, check out Travel Reporter Cyann Fielding’s experience onboard and what to expect from the en-suite Club cabin.

My seaside town is Time Out’s best UK place to visit in 2025.. it used to be a tourist blackspot but now rivals Brighton.

Plus, here’s another Kent village to visit with no arcades or loud rides – it’s never crowded with a great pub on the beach.

Broadstairs is one of Katie’s top choices for a staycationCredit: Alamy

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UK seaside lido that was turned into a car park could be about to become a lido again

The historic venue was paved over to provide beach parking, but a bold plan could see the lido revitalised for year-round swimming could “bring new life to the town” according to a local organisation

In 1935, the Marina Bathing Pool opened in a stunning seafront location, offering locals and tourists the chance to take a dip in fresh seawater. Over the years, it brought in huge crowds, especially at weekends when families would flock to the area to cool off, take a dive, or even learn to sail in the boating pool. Its was part of a complex that even had a space for dancing and a roller rink.

But despite its beautiful Art Deco architecture, the lido, like so many others eventually closed down and the site was abandoned. In the 1970s, it was paved over to create a car park, in a twist worthy of a Joni Mitchell song.

However, the council owned car park is now being considered by Thanet District Council for disposal, and an enthusiastic non-profit organisation is hoping to take it over, potentially bringing back the lido for year-round outdoor swimming.

Non-profit organisation Heritage Lab Ramsgate said its in “early discussions” with a developer to create an outdoor swimming complex at the site, which it hopes would “help re-establish Ramsgate as a distinctive coastal destination”.

A spokesperson for Heritage Lab Ramsgate said: “Thanet has a thriving sea and open-water swimming culture, with people of all ages swimming year-round for wellbeing, connection and community. Outdoor swimming is no longer niche – it’s part of a wider shift in how people travel and spend time at the coast.

“When combined with elements such as saunas, cafés and social spaces, an outdoor pool can become something more than a place to swim — it can be a year-round destination that locals and visitors return to again and again.

“The former Marina Bathing Pool site offers a rare opportunity to reinstate a high-quality outdoor swimming facility in a location that has been associated with leisure and seaside holidays since the mid-1930s.”

A Facebook post showing potential plans for the site received a number of positive comments, with one saying: “Brilliant idea- kudos to the person/persons who conceived this project. It makes perfect sense to restore what once was a vital part of the town.” Others shared fond memories of the original lido, and one commenter said: “Used to spend all day in the old marina pool when it was there. Mum never saw us from 0900 until about 1730.”

However, one comment questioned the feasibility of the project, asking: “But would people use it? Did it originally close for lack of use? Like when people try to reopen village pubs and it struggles and struggles, many different landlords come and go eventually they close again. Not all but most. Personally I’d like to see this happen but I doubt I’d actually use it. Good luck I say.”

A report is due to be submitted to Thanet District Council ahead of a February 26 meeting recommending a marketing exercise which will invite proposals from a range of parties who may be interested in the site. The council previously explored transforming the site for leisure use.

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A spokesperson for Heritage Lab Ramsgate added: “If a scheme were to progress, it would need to be developed responsibly and in close consultation with local residents, with careful attention paid to affordability, accessibility and ensuring the benefits are widely shared.”

The non-profit has also nominated the site to be designated an Asset of Community Value (ACV), which prevents the asset owner from selling it for up to five years, unless the nominating group has a chance to bid for it. Giving the car park ACV status will also give locals more of an opportunity to formally have their say over what happens to the site.

Have a story you want to share? Email us at webtravel@reachplc.com

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One of the UK’s best holiday cottages has seals and dolphins swimming offshore… and week-stays under £85pp a night

IF you want incredible coastal views head to this spaceship-looking retreat – it’s one of the best in the UK.

Called The Observatory, the holiday home is perched high above the beach in Tyne and Wear – it even has an indoor sauna and outdoor bath.

Inside The Observatory a cosy living area with wrap around windows made from windscreensCredit: Holiday Cottages
Upstairs is the kitchen with a balcony overlooking the beachCredit: Holiday Cottages

The Observatory was picked as one of the ‘most-loved cottages for 2026’ by holidaycottages.co.uk – and for good reason.

Near Whitley Bay in North Tyneside, The Observatory sits up on the third and fourth floor with views across the North Sea.

You can see the coast from anywhere thanks to the holiday cottages’ wrap around windows which are made from car windscreens.

And if you’re lucky, you might be able to spot dolphins and seals – which one lucky visitor did.

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They wrote in their review: “Absolutely fantastic accommodation, a perfect location for exploring the area, lots of great restaurants especially for fish lovers!!

“Spectacular views, we were lucky enough to see a pod of dolphins very close within the bay.”

Another added: “Absolutely incredible views, all day and night, you don’t need to move from the windows! I did have a little run down to the water and a walk into the high street but other than that the sauna and views were enough.”

On the first floor of The Observatory is a cosy sofa and a hanging egg chair – it’s also where you’ll find the bedroom with a super king-size bed.

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There’s also a shower room, alfresco bathtub, and an indoor sauna with a sea view.

On the very top floor is an airy kitchen, another lounge area with a woodburner, and an outside balcony with thirty-mile all-round sea views.

If you fancy a sweet treat, head down to the cafe on the ground floor which serves up coffee and ice cream.

Also on the ground floor is a private, enclosed patio garden with a table and chairs.

It sleeps two and is pet-friendly too.

A seven-night stay at The Observatory in March costs £1,143 – or £81.65pppn.

Inside the holiday home is a comfy king size bed tooCredit: Holiday Cottages
One visitor was lucky enough to see a pod of dolphinsCredit: Alamy

The Observatory sits just outside of Tynemouth which has just been named one of the best places to live in the North East.

Now, it’s been named as one of the top places to live in the region by Garrington Property Finders – coming sixth best.

Tynemouth sits between Whitley Bay and North Shields and is home to one of the best beaches in the area called Longsands.

The beach has a mile of golden sand, has been awarded Blue Flag status, and is known for having excellent surfing conditions.

One of the most popular cafés in Tynemouth is Crusoe’s where visitors can eat right on the sand and take in the seaside view.

You can pick up breakfasts, sandwiches and the classic beach supper, fish and chips from £13.95.

For more staycations – here are six of the best staycation deals across the UK from Cotswolds cottages to lakefront lodges.

Plus, check out this beautiful Cotswolds lake house named best holiday home in the UK with a pool and spa access.

The Observatory in North Shields has incredible views across the beachCredit: Holiday Cottages

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11-mile underwater tunnel will be world’s longest connecting 2 European countries

The Fehmarn Belt Fixed Link is expected to be the world’s longest immersed tunnel and rail link by 2029

The Fehmarn Belt Fixed Link, an underwater tunnel poised to link the Danish island of Lolland with Germany’s Fehmarn island, represents a remarkable feat of engineering. This remarkable tunnel beneath the Baltic Sea, set to become one of the planet’s longest submerged structures, is due for completion by 2029.

Spanning more than 18 kilometres (11 miles), the Fehmarnbelt tunnel will dramatically reduce journey times between Scandinavia and mainland Europe. Danish planning firm Femern has described the tunnel as “Denmark’s largest infrastructure project and the world’s longest immersed tunnel and rail link”.

The scheme carries a substantial estimated price tag of DKK 55.1billion (£6.4billion), with the European Union providing roughly 1.3billion euros (£1.1billion) in funding.

Femern has stressed that an immersed tunnel represents a “safe, tested and efficient way of building an underwater tunnel”, reports the Express.

“The technology is Danish-developed and builds on experiences from, among others, the Øresund Tunnel. Once completed, the tunnel will not pose any obstacle to vessel traffic in the Fehmarnbelt. Marine safety is also a top priority during the construction phase.”

“The Fehmarnbelt tunnel will be just as safe as a corresponding section of motorway above ground. The tunnel is equipped with continuous hard shoulders and emergency exits along its entire length.”

The Institution of Civil Engineers highlighted the Fehmarnbelt Tunnel’s unique positioning atop the seabed, dubbing it “a remarkable engineering feat”.

“Weighing in at 73,500 tonnes apiece, these colossal structures are a testament to modern engineering,” they explained.

“Once a tunnel element is ready to be shipped, waterproof bulkheads (barriers) are installed at both ends, and the segment is carefully towed into position by tugboats.”

“In total, 89 elements will be connected sequentially – much like assembling giant Lego pieces – to form the complete tunnel.”

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Brits face ‘horrendous’ 3-hour queues on tarmac at Tenerife after huge changes in airport

Visitors to the sunny island of Tenerife have shared their experiences of the airport amid claims of three-hour queues, and while some have breezed through, others have found themselves facing long delays to the start of their holidays

Brits visiting the popular holiday island of Tenerife have reported ‘horrendous’ and long queues and issues getting through the airport, both when arriving and departing.

Unhappy holidaymakers have told the Mirror that they’ve been stuck in the automatic doors and made to queue outside on the tarmac, with elderly passengers kept waiting for two hours.

The issues partly stem from the newly introduced Entry/Exit System (EES), which Brits have had to use when travelling into EU countries since October 12, 2025. It seems to have led to long waits for passengers on the Spanish island. Local news outlet Canarian Weekly reports that only five of the 36 new eGates are in use in Tenerife South Airport.

When contacted about the issue, airport operator AENA stated that border control is the responsibility of Policía Nacional. The spokesperson said: “The European Commission determined that the Entry Exit System starts on October 12. Its implementation will be gradual over a period of 180 days, until April 10, when its deployment will be fully completed.”

Recent holidaymakers to Tenerife have had mixed experiences using the airport. Anne Ramsey, a frequent visitor to the island, said that when her party arrived on December 19 on an early morning flight from Glasgow Prestwick Airport, “we went straight through”.

However, a few weeks later on January 23, Anne arrived on a plane from Manchester and described the queues as ‘horrendous’. “They had to keep us on the transfer bus as the queue into the terminal was queuing outside, and there was nowhere for anyone else to go.”, she said.

Annie revealed the chaos outside the airport, saying: “People were getting stuck in the glass doors entering the terminal as they kept opening and shutting them in an attempt to control the passenger numbers.”

During this trip, Annie was accompanied by her 90-year-old mother, and said they “queued for nearly two hours.” At this point, it was term time, so the family lanes designed for groups with children under 12 were less busy, but Annie claims there was “no attempt to move people from the longer queue to the shorter one.”

She also faced technical difficulties, with eGates crashing, meaning passengers needed to wait until they were up and running again. However, her sister, who had arrived on the same date just two hours later, faced no queues.

Larry Hicken, a member of the popular Facebook group Tenerife Holiday Forum, shared two images showing long queues upon arrival at the airport. He said he landed at 4pm on January 26, but it wasn’t until 6.10pm he made it through border control.

However, a few people said they’d had positive experiences at the airport. Pip Jane Tolliss said she flew out on December 10, 2025, and had a smooth experience on arrival. Her fingerprints weren’t taken, but a photo was, and she got through in 10 minutes.

On the way back on January 3, she said it was busier, but “security moved quickly. Went through gate C and no machines just a small queue moving very quickly as just stamping passport.”

Pip admits that experiences at the airport can vary. “Having spoken to many people during our stay, it seems the experience can be very different from day to day. We were lucky, I guess!”

Representatives of the Policía Nacional España have been contacted for comment.

Have a story you want to share? Email us at webtravel@reachplc.com

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Britain’s ‘largest free-entry theme park’ WILL reopen despite liquidation last week

A MUCH-LOVED family theme park has reassured Brits that it will still reopen to the public, despite entering liquidation last week.

Brean Theme Park in Somerset claims to be the ‘biggest free-entry theme park’ in the UK.

Brean Theme Park will reopen after entering liquidation last weekCredit: Brean Theme Park
The theme park claims to be the ‘largest free-entry theme park in the UK’Credit: Brean Theme Park

However, last week The Gazette – the UK’s official public record – published ‘resolutions for winding up’ for the company, meaning that it must cease trading and in other words, close.

However, in a turn of events, the theme park is now under a new organisational structure and is preparing to open in just weeks.

Peter Mainwaring, general manager, said: “We are working hard behind the scenes and will reopen for the 2026 summer season from Easter.

“Although the group structure has changed, our loyal visitors will still enjoy the same park, the same team, and the same great day out.

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The message also told fans to keep an eye on social media for updates on the park.

He added: “For clarity, Brean Theme Park is not owned by Unity Holidays.

“We operate as a fully independent business and lease land from them.

“We look forward to continuing to work together.

“Preparations are underway and we can’t wait to welcome you back very soon.”

Many excited fans also took to social media to express their happiness at the news.

One said: “This is good news. My children were quite upset to hear it may close.

“I will definitely be coming for our annual visits.”

Another added: “Brilliant news, that’s defo now been added to my list to visit ASAP and support.”

A third commented: “Aw what a relief – my kids look forward to going every summer holidays and other times when we can.

“They were gutted to hear the sad news last week but [are] thrilled now.”

It also claims to have the best ghost train attraction in the UKCredit: Brean Theme Park
In total, the park features over 40 rides and attractionsCredit: Brean Theme Park

Brean Theme Park originally opened back in 1946 as a campsite and today is home to over 40 rides including indoor and outdoor rollercoasters, carousels, crazy boats and dodgems.

It even has a ghost train, which according to the attraction’s website, is the best in the UK.

The park is usually open seasonally between March and October.

And even though entry is free, each ride costs a certain amount of credits which can be bought when you arrive at the attraction.

In other theme park news, here is the UK’s strangest (and coolest) theme park, which launches a new ‘crazy trikes’ attraction for 2026.

Plus, world’s first Paw Patrol land opens at UK theme park in weeks – here’s what it’ll look like.

The theme park will reopen for the season at EasterCredit: Brean Theme Park

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Five European city breaks that are CHEAPER than an English train ticket

WE all know rail travel across the UK is expensive – but did you know you can go on these five city breaks for less than the price of a train ticket?

TravelSupermarket has found five two-night holidays – including flights and hotels – that all cost less than the £193 single walk-up train fare from London to Manchester.

You can stay in Krakow for just £129pp – explore the bars and see Wawel CastleCredit: Alamy
See the canal-lined streets in Amsterdam from just £149ppCredit: Alamy

Krakow, Poland

Starting with Poland’s southern city of Krakow, two nights at the 4-star Q Hotel Plus Krakow costs just £129pp.

This includes flights departing London Stansted on March 7.

The hotel sits in the heart of Krakow City Centre, from there you can walk to some of the most famous attractions like Wawel Castle and the Old Town.

It’s also just a 15-minute walk to the buzzing Kazimierz district with plenty of pubs, cafes, museums and art galleries.

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Krakow is nicknamed the ‘jewel of the Baltic’ and one Sun writer who took a city break there late last year described the city as a “medieval fairytale”.

To make it even better, they also discovered the average price of beers was just £1.50.

Budapest, Hungary

The capital of Hungary is just two and a half hours away from the UK.

And two nights departing from London Stansted on March 2, with a stay at the 3-star ibis Budapest Heroes Square Hotel, starts from £129pp.

The modern hotel is close to the Museum of Fine Arts, Hungarian Art Gallery, Zoo and the famous Heroes Square – so you can see it all.

Budapest is known for having quirky ruin bars, Neo-Gothic architecture and thermal spas – the grandest being Szechenyi.

The spa has multiple swimming pools, saunas, steam rooms, a restaurant and even a beer spa where guests can pour themselves as many pints as they like from the side of the hot tub.

A day ticket to Szechenyi start from €36 (£31.33) a full-day ticket at the spa with a 45-minute Beer Spa session is £79.

Prague, Czech Republic

Prague has always been a great choice for a city break thanks to having plenty to do and flights taking less than two hours.

You can spend two nights at the 3-star Ibis Praha Wenceslas Square departing Manchester on March 2 from £129pp.

The hotel is minutes away from the city centre where you’ll find Prague Castle which happens to be right next to the world’s poshest Starbucks.

Other must-sees across the city is Charles Bridge, Prague’s Retro Museum, and of course take a beer tour.

Czechia is the birthplace of Budweiser, Pilsner – you can learn all about it and have a taste at The Original Beer Experience which starts from €24 (£20.89).

For beaches and city head to Barcelona for £189ppCredit: Alamy

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Two nights at the 4-star XO Hotels Blue Tower found in Amsterdam West with flights leaving Manchester on March 3 starts from just £149pp.

From here you can explore all aspects of the canal-lined city. Take a 20-minute tram ride and you can get to the Anne Frank House, Rijksmuseum and dig into a stroopwafels along the way.

Travel Writer Helen Wright revealed how she would spend a day in Amsterdam.

She said: “Start in Runstraat, known as the ‘9 Streets’. As well as picturesque canals and bridges, there are lots of cute boutiques and shops to browse.

I could spend all day here just grabbing coffee and nipping in and out of the stores, soaking up the laid-back Ditch vibe. If you want a beer, there are lots of fun pubs too.

“It’s here you will find the viral Fabel Friet chip shop – chucky fries topped with truffle and garlic mayo.”

Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona is the best of both worlds when it comes to beaches and city.

You can spend two nights in the 3-star NH Barcelona Diagonal Center with flights departing Edinburgh on March 10 starting from £189pp.

Make sure to check out Gaudí’s masterpiece at Park Güell, tapas bars, and the beach that’s a 15-minute walk away from the hotel.

When it comes to shopping, the Sun’s Assistant Travel Editor Sophie Swietochowski said: “I’ve never understood why Barcelona’s Las Ramblas gets more attention than the Gothic Quarter when it comes to shopping.

“The maze of narrow streets that make up the Gothic Quarter, however, are so much fun to explore, flanked by pokey antique stores and one-of-a-kind boutiques.

“You’ll find lots of little tapas joints and bars, too. Nevermind Bar has outrageously cheap drinks and nibbles – beers will set you back €3.50 while a hefty portion of chips costs €1.50”.

For more on city breaks, these are the 39 best European city break destinations – and the no.1 is VERY cheap.

And here are five European cities with lesser-known tours that let you explore like a local.

City breaks to the likes of Prague cost less than a UK train ticketCredit: Alamy

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6 best desert books to read: Essential Southwest literature

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The word “desert” suggests barrenness for many, but anyone who lives in or near one knows how rich, wild and complex it can be. That’s equally true of the best books set there. The winter months are the best time to travel to the desert — but tucking into one of these titles is timeless, of course. Here is a brief selection of some of the best desert reads, old and new, that put the Southwest at their center. Whether you’re planning a road trip or reading from the comfort of home, get a glimpse of awe-inspiring vistas, rugged wildlife, tales of resilience and more.

"The Land of Little Rain" by Mary Austin

“The Land of Little Rain”
By Mary Austin
Penguin Classics: 128 pp., $17
(1903; reprint 1997)

Arguably the first collection of lyrical essay writing about the California desert, Austin drew on her travels through the Owens Valley and environs, covering mining, the Shoshone tribe, weather and water. The book is thrilling in Austin’s close attention to details, from the grasses to rivers and hard-trod trails. Here, she writes, “it is possible to live with great zest, to have red blood and delicate joys.”

"Desert Solitaire: A Season in the Wilderness" by Edward Abbey

“Desert Solitaire: A Season in the Wilderness”
By Edward Abbey
Ballantine Books: 352 pp., $10
(1968; reprinted 1985)

Chronicling his stint in Utah’s Arches National Park in the late ‘50s, Abbey’s bestselling memoir revealed the beauty and fragility of the Southwest to a wider American audience, depicting the punishing weather and awe-inspiring vistas while thundering against the masses of lookie-loos driving into the desert only to despoil it. It’s often likened to “Walden,” but Abbey’s flinty, darkly humorous voice gave Western literature a tone distinct from East Coast gentility and folksy cowboy writing.

"Desert Oracle: Volume 1: Strange True Tales From the American Southwest" by Ken Layne

“Desert Oracle, Volume 1: Strange True Tales from the American Southwest”
By Ken Layne
Picador: 304 pp., $20
(2021)

Part handbook, part folklore collection, part tribute to the Southwest, Layne’s entertaining chronicle is built on brief chapters about the outlaws, writers, singers and other characters who define the region’s hardy reputation, from the path of Western swing musicians from Texas to L.A. to UFO conspiracists who convene in New Mexico, the Manson family’s trek to Death Valley, and beyond.

"The Deserts of California: A California Field Atlas" by Obi Kaufmann

“The Deserts of California: A California Field Atlas”
By Obi Kaufmann
Heyday, 576 pp., $55
(2023)

Kaufmann’s lavishly illustrated field guide to the state’s arid regions is wide-ranging both geographically (from the Great Basin to the north and the Sonoran and Mojave to the south) and in terms of the species covered, from bats to bobcats and chias to palo verdes. It’s built for both the backpack and end table, with detailed descriptions alongside pleas for the land’s preservation.

"Mecca" by Susan Straight

“Mecca”
By Susan Straight
V: 384, $19
(2022)

A contemporary epic set in the Imperial Valley, Straight’s novel is a cross-section of desert denizens — a motorcycle officer, a Palm Springs spa employee, a family rocked by a police shooting — set against the demands of desert life. Encompassing COVID-19 and wildfires, it speaks to the present while exploring the region’s long history.

"Mojave Ghost" by Forrest Gander

“Mojave Ghost”
By Forrest Gander
New Directions, 80 pp., $16
(2024)

“In this xeric topography / we fold ourselves into the circumstance of desert foothills / chewed away by leprosies, toothed winds, and / sudden rains,” writes the Pulitzer-winning poet Forrest Gander in this book-length poem about his hike across the 800 miles of the San Andreas Fault after the deaths of his wife, poet C.D. Wright, and mother. Though the writing is informed by the starkness of the landscape, he writes beautifully about the desert’s healing powers.

Athitakis is a writer in Phoenix and author of “The New Midwest.”

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The 37 new flights launching from major UK airport this year including budget routes to Asia and Jet2’s first ever

ONE of the UK’s busiest airports is getting 37 new flight routes this year – some for the first time ever.

London Gatwick Airport is welcoming eight new carriers, with some starting flights from next month.

AirAsia X is the latest airline to launch from London GatwickCredit: Reuters
The new route will connect Brits to Kuala Lumpur via BahrainCredit: Alamy

The newest to join is budget carrier AirAsia X.

Last flying from the UK in 2012, the new route will connect Brits to Kuala Lumpur.

Flights were scrapped more than a decade ago due to high operational costs as well as a lack of demand

The new flights, operating once a day, will stop in Bahrain before continuing to the Malaysian capital.

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The new route will start from June 2026 although flight prices are yet to be confirmed.

Pierre-Hugues Schmit, CEO, London Gatwick said: “The new daily service will provide excellent opportunities to visit the city or onward connectivity across the region – ideal for holidaymakers, businesses and the many British‑Malaysian families who will now have even better options for visiting friends and relatives.”

One of the biggest new additions to London Gatwick is Jet2, which is launching its first ever flights for London Gatwick.

The first take taking off next month, with flights to Tenerife on March 26.

However, this is just one of 29 new routes from the airline connecting to Europe.

This includes flights to Spain, Greece, Portugal, Malta, Bulgaria, Croatia, Italy and Cyprus.

One of the longest new Jet2 flights will be to Turkey, flying to Antalya.

It comes after they launched their first flights from London Luton last year too.

A number of other airlines are also launching flights from London Gatwick from next month.

This includes:

  • Bucharest with AnimaWings from March 22
  • Cologne and Stuttgart with Eurowings from March 29 and April 13
  • Sharjah with Air Arabia March 29
  • Paris with Air France from March 29
  • Frankfurt with Condor from April 1
  • Qingdao with Beijing Capital from June 24

The 37 new routes will take London Gatwick’s destinations to 57 this year.

Tenerife will be Jet2’s first flight from London GatwickCredit: Alamy
Sharjah will get Gatwick flights tooCredit: Alamy

Mr Schmit added: “AirAsia X is the latest airline to choose to fly from London Gatwick, ahead of what will be a fantastic summer for our passengers.”

London Gatwick isn’t the only airport getting some exciting new flights this year.

From March, Turkish Airlines will launch a new route between London Stansted Airport and Istanbul.

And Indian airline IndiGo launched its first UK flights, connecting Manchester to India.

Virgin Atlantic will connect the UK to Phuket and Seoul, while British Airways is starting flights to St. Louis in Missouri.

Here are all of the other flight routes launching in 2026.

The new flights will launch from next monthCredit: Alamy

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One in four couples clash when travelling as budgets and bedtimes spark rows

One in four couples consider themselves incompatible travel partners, with disagreements over budgets, itineraries and even bedtimes – take this quiz to discover how compatible you are

Railcard.co.uk quizzes Brits on travel habits

One in four couples consider themselves incompatible travel partners, with tensions most likely to flare over budgets, itineraries – and even bedtimes. A survey of 2,000 people in a relationship found of the 89% who have travelled with their partner, 23% do not think they are well-matched in their preferences.

Only 28% think their partner ‘ticks all the boxes’ when it comes to travelling together. Among the top things couples disagree about when having a trip away were where to eat, what times to wake up and go to bed, and the budget. However, differences aren’t necessarily a relationship ender.

A quarter believe opposites attract as it helps prevent rows such as not wanting the same seat when using shared transport (43%) and prompts them to venture beyond their comfort zone (35%).

The study, commissioned by Railcard.co.uk, also revealed the benefits of travelling as a duo, including making memories together (57%), consistently having someone to talk with (47%) and building emotional bonds (36%).

Over half reckon it requires one to two journeys to determine if they are genuinely travel compatible with someone. Those who are in sync (77%) credit shared preferences around accommodation (60%), activities (48%) and budget (43%).

Uncover your ultimate travel compatibility score – take the quiz now.

Catherine Lyver from Railcard.co.uk said: “The study shows that travelling with a plus-one comes with its quirks – from debating who gets the window seat to discovering you have very different definitions of an ‘early start’.

“But that’s all part of the fun. Travelling together sparks the kind of conversations that help you learn more about each other and create the memories you laugh about later.

“And with a Two Together Railcard, couples, friends or relatives can save a third on their rail journey while enjoying quality time – even if it’s spent negotiating playlists.”

The research also revealed that despite nine in 10 believing travel compatibility matters, over half (51%) reckon compromise is crucial to a happy relationship.

Being more thoughtful of each other’s needs (34%) and discussing priorities before a trip (25%) are amongst some of the ways travellers have overcome differences with a companion.

Of the 30% who said a train journey is where they and their partner are most travel compatible, 55% viewed these trips as quality time together and 41% said it gives them a chance to catch up.

Catherine Lyver added: “This Valentine’s Day, it’s likely many couples will be travelling together for a day trip or night away.

“Why not make the train journey a part of the experience and make the most of the quality time together”.

TOP 10 THINGS COUPLES DISAGREE ABOUT WHEN TRAVELLING TOGETHER:

  1. Where to eat
  2. Time to wake up
  3. Budget/cost
  4. Length of a stay
  5. Time to go to bed
  6. Itineraries (e.g., how to fill the days)
  7. Activities
  8. Type of music to listen to
  9. Time of day to travel
  10. Sight-seeing plans

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Popular English seaside town’s much-loved attraction set to reopen after £8million upgrade

PLANS have been revealed to rescue a historic English seaside venue and return it to its former glory.

The Margate Winter Gardens in Kent – where stars such as The Beatles and The Rolling Stones have performed – is set to be restored and reopened.

Margate Winter Gardens in Kent is due to get a £8million upgradeCredit: Lee Evans Partnership LLP
The venue opened over 100-years-ago and has hosted stars such as The BeatlesCredit: Lee Evans Partnership LLP

Dating back to 1910, the venue has previously had a number of different areas including the Main Hall, Queen’s Hall, two side wings and an open-air amphitheatre.

As part of the Thanet District Council’s plans, the seafront venue will reopen with a new rooftop bar and restaurant, a drama school and a 100-place nursery.

As part of the plans, the Main Hall and Queen’s Hall will be made fully accessible and reopened.

And the decor and balconies inside will be kept.

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There are also plans to create two mezzanine pods, similar to those found in Peckham Library.

The restaurant will then be located above the Main Hall, with both indoor seating and an outdoor terrace.

As for the nursery, that will be in the upper part of the site and will feature separate areas for babies, toddlers and pre-schoolers.

The new drama school will be held in the smaller Queen’s Hall and have classrooms and dance studio spaces.

In all, the project is expected to cost around £8million to complete.

According to the plans, the vision for Margate Winter Gardens “marries both history and opulence, creating a visually stunning seafront icon with nods to its luxurious past as well as futureproofing the building for years to come”.

The aim is to reopen the Main Hall by late 2026, then other parts of the venue will open in phases from 2027.

Margate Winter Gardens, which closed two years ago, sits on a site known as Fort Crescent and looks over Margate Main Sands and the English Channel.

When the venue opened, it featured a Concert Hall, four entrance halls, two side wings and one open-air amphitheatre.

During the 1920s and 1930s, the Winter Gardens was a much-loved entertainment venue with performances including cabaret and tea dances.

Under the new plans, there will be two mezzanine pods similar to the pods found in Peckham library (pictured)Credit: Wikipedia
There will also be a rooftop bar and restaurant with sea viewsCredit: Lee Evans Partnership LLP
The Main Hall will be made fully accessible as wellCredit: Lee Evans Partnership LLP

Then, during World War II, the venue was used initially as the Dunkirk evacuee reception before later being turned into an ARP shelter and food depot.

In 1946 the building was partially rebuilt after bomb damage.

After the war, Winter Gardens was once again used as an entertainment venue with performances by Laurel and Hardy, The Beatles, The Rolling Stones and Dame Vera Lynn.

However, over the decades visitor numbers declined and in 2022, the Winter Gardens closed for a while to assess concerns over the building’s condition.

In other attraction news, here’s how to get into hundreds of the UK’s top attractions for free next month.

Plus, London’s most underrated attraction is the best place for skint families.

Parts of the venue are expected to reopen in late 2026Credit: Thanet.gov.uk

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Woman visits Victorian train station but is stunned by what’s hidden within walls

A woman recently visited a Victorian train station in the UK, but was left floored when she made a discovery hidden within its walls. Sometimes the most unexpected things await us

Thousands of people visit train stations every day, but sometimes more lies within them than we realise. One woman recently discovered this when she visited an old train station in the UK, and it left her totally taken aback.

Korina, known as thedreamywanders on Instagram, recently shared her epic find on social media, and it’s since gone viral, as people can’t believe how beautiful her discovery was. When she entered the train station, she ended up finding a lot more books than she did trains, and the experience left her, and her followers, totally mesmerised, and it’s pretty easy to see why.

It’s not the first time people have made such amazing discoveries at train stations either. For example, the secret world of London’s Underground was also previously exposed.

In Korina’s clip, she wrote: “POV: You entered a Victorian train station and found the UK’s cosiest second-hand bookshop.” Alongside this, she added: “Barter Books is set inside a Victorian train station and it feels like stepping into a different world.

“There are shelves everywhere, cosy corners to browse and model trains running overhead as you explore. It’s the kind of place where every book feels like it’s waiting to be found.

“There’s also a café on site and fireplaces around the shop, so you can grab a coffee, sit by the fire and read for a while. One of those places you could easily lose track of time in.”

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The post quickly got people talking, and dozens were quick to comment. They shared all sorts of thoughts.

One said: “Oh I love this spot! You really captured its magic.” Another added: “Had the absolute joy of introducing a friend to this place today. He loved it.”

A third replied: “Wow, this is amazing.” Meanwhile, a fourth commented: “It’s a truly wonderful world. A place I could spend a whole weekend.”

One more also chimed in with: “I think I bought 17 books last time I was there.” Another also noted: “Such an adorable bookshop.”

Where can you find it?

The bookshop is located in Alnwick, Northumberland. If you haven’t visited before, it’s known for its charming atmosphere, with towering shelves of second-hand books and a lovely collection of old railway memorabilia. Barter Books also features a unique “barter” system, where customers can trade in old books for store credit.

It’s considered a gorgeous place to visit for both book lovers and history enthusiasts alike. You’ll find it located in the historic former Alnwick Station, and it was opened in 1991 by Stuart and Mary Manley.

The station, which was built back in 1887, was later transformed into an amazing bookshop. It still contains much of its original Victorian architecture, including the station’s platforms and waiting rooms. Today it is one of the largest second-hand bookshops in Europe.

If you haven’t visited Northumberland before, it’s directly adjacent to and north of Newcastle upon Tyne. Many areas can be accessed in less than an hour by car or public transport.

It serves as a rural, and coastal counterpart to the city, offering easy access to attractions like Alnwick, Morpeth and the coast. As well as this, Northumberland is directly adjacent to Scotland, forming the northernmost county of England and sharing the border to the north and west.

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UK’s busiest train station with 100million passengers FINALLY gets go ahead for controversial £1.2billion expansion

A MASSIVE expansion of the UK’s biggest train station has finally been given the green light after years of controversy.

London Liverpool Street Station welcomes nearly as many as 100million passengers a year.

The UK’s busiest train station has been given the green light to expandCredit: City of London
The plans were first announced back in 2023Credit: City of London
London Liverpool Street will be transformed over the next ten yearsCredit: City of London

However, for years there have been plans to upgrade some of the station’s dated features as well as make it larger after record passenger numbers.

And the City of London Corporation has now approved plans for the redevelopment of Liverpool Street Station.

It confirmed that it would “improve central London’s connectivity to the rest of the country [and] make the local area a much more enjoyable place to visit, work in and travel through.”

The new plans – predicted to cost £1.2billion – include more shops and cafes, as well as better pedestrian and cycle paths and parks.

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More office spaces will be part of a new 318ft tower block being built over the main concourse.

Upgraded facilities such as more ticket barriers, lifts, escalators and toilets, and wider train platforms, are also part of the plans.

It hopes it will eventually double in capacity, with up to 200million passengers.

It won’t be anytime soon, however – works could start by 2029, and be finished by 2036.

Chairman of the City of London Corporation Planning and Transportation Committee, Tom Sleigh, said: “Everyone likes an upgrade, and this astonishing improvement to Britain’s busiest train station is just that; a major improvement by every measure.

“The soaring Brick arches and bold architecture will cement Liverpool Street’s status as a modern temple to transport.”

Policy Chairman of the City of London Corporation, Chris Hayward, added: “This redevelopment of Liverpool Street station is a major step forward for the Square Mile.”

If the proposals go ahead, work would start at the beginning of 2029 and last seven years, with the new station completed by mid-2036.

The long-discussed plans have caused controversy in the past, with previous plans even including a rooftop pool although this has now been scrapped.

And there are fears that the upgrade works could cause a “decade of chaos” due to closed platforms.

New cafes and shops are also part of the plansCredit: City of London
There are fears there will be years of chaos with closed platformsCredit: City of London

This would affect passengers travelling to airports like London Stansted, as well as those using the Elizabeth Line.

London Liverpool Street Station is the UK’s busiest, recording a record 98million passengers from 2024/25.

In second is London Waterloo, which has nearly 28million fewer passengers.

It’s not the only huge train station expanding – London St Pancras plans to double passenger numbers to 60million.

The station is home to the Eurostar, and will eventually welcome Virgin’s European trains when they launch as well.

And here’s a large train station in the UK that was inspired by Italy – and has been named one of the best.

The plans have changed over the years, with elements such as a rooftop pool scrappedCredit: City of London
Works might not be able to start until 2029Credit: City of London
Until then, the train station remains fully openCredit: City of London

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Saunas, safaris and silence in Norfolk: a winter weekend on a rewilded retreat | Suffolk holidays

The scene is entirely black, white, grey and silver. It is cold, unusually dark and a film of ice is forming on the lake. I’m sitting in an unlit wooden sauna, alone, in immense silence. The only noise is the soft ticking of the stove as the heat rises. Across the water are ghostly silver birches and dark pines. Above them, Orion’s Belt shines bright. This vivid experience feels like midwinter in Canada, Finland or anywhere else about 60 degrees north. So it’s bizarre to know I’m a few miles south-west of Great Yarmouth.

Fritton Lake is an anomaly. Like the Broads to the north, this deceptively big, sinuous lake was largely created by medieval peat-digging, but it’s nothing like its Norfolk cousins. Set in a sandy, hilly landscape of heaths and pines, the northernmost outpost of the wildlife-rich strip of sandy heathlands running up the Suffolk coast, the lake is deep and two miles long but so hidden by trees that many people don’t know of its existence.

Over the past five years, Fritton Lake has been transformed by a rewilding programme. Landowner Hugh Somerleyton is the co-founder of WildEast, a now-national movement encouraging people to pledge to “wild” at least 20% of their garden, park, playground or farm. Fritton and its surrounds represent Somerleyton’s 25% rewilding contribution, while he farms the rest of his 2,020-hectare (5,000-acre) estate regeneratively.

Fritton Lake’s heated swimming pool

I’ve brought my family for a winter weekend seeking wildness in far-eastern England. Arriving after nightfall, my first impression is simply darkness. Anything as suburban as a lit walkway or illuminated sign is not found here. But we locate our self-catering cottage, one of a range of accommodation options that includes chic wooden cabins (some with hot tubs) and B&B rooms in the cosy pub turned clubhouse that is now is both a holiday destination and a high-end members’ club.

The highlight of our first night is a (very) quiet private 30-minute session in the lake’s magical floating sauna. Between pub and sauna are courts and pitches for tennis, basketball, football, cricket, croquet, pétanque and pickleball. Down by the lake are canoes, kayaks, rowing boats and paddleboards. Passing the heated outdoor 22-metre swimming pool with fire pits at either end is like stepping through a set for a film about a 1960s Cliveden pool party featuring Christine Keeler, except there is a solitary swimmer doing laps as the pool steams alluringly in the chill night air.

The next morning, I wake up to another silence so deep it might swallow me. Huge flocks of jackdaws and rooks fly overhead as we stroll through rewilded grassland to the pub for a hearty breakfast. Afterwards, my son Ted and I set out on a Fritton “safari”. Our guide, Matthew, is a fast-talking, east London-raised botanist-horticulturist-entomologist-mycologist. We jump in an old-fashioned, cream-coloured motorboat and putter slowly across the lake, which is superb for swimming and also enjoyed by pike, eels and, in winter, teals, shelducks and egrets. In summer, an osprey occasionally hunts for fish here, while “all the owls” – little, short-eared, long-eared, tawny and barn – are seen nearby alongside six endangered amphibian species.

There are deer and stags on the estate. Photograph: Max Ellis/Alamy

On the far side of the lake, the wildlife area is only open to those on guided tours (and Scout groups). We climb into an open-sided 1976 Austrian Pinzgauer 4WD and Matthew bumps us through the woods. Amid last year’s bracken, we spy an enormous shiny black shape slumped under a pine. A hippo? Creeping closer, we find that the shape is a pair of huge black pigs that Somerleyton has “retired” to the woods. They flick floppy ears out of their eyes to examine us. Their rootling mimics wild boar lost to this landscape, disturbing the ground and assisting wildflower germination; former arable fields are filled with oxeye daisies in summer. We admire the long-horned Highland cattle roaming free, while a buzzard cries in the sky above.

Ted spots a muntjac and a fallow deer, and then Matthew screeches to a halt with excitement. “King Conan’s sons!” he whispers. There, crossing our paths are two magnificent red deer stags, although apparently not quite as magnificent as King Conan himself. “They are the princes,” whispers Matthew. They observe us, seemingly unafraid, from 15 metres away.

On our return across the lake after an otherworldly three-hour experience, two kingfishers pirouette around our boat, shining iridescent orange and turquoise against the dark water.

My kids are mortified when I arrive at the pub for dinner wearing my Dryrobe, but if it is socially acceptable anywhere, it must be here. I need it for another sauna session that follows an amazing steak from a menu emphasising local/seasonal food, with good veggie options too. An owl calls on the walk back to the cottage.

The writer spotted kingfishers on his ‘safari’ around Fritton Lake. Photograph: Lisa Geoghegan/Alamy

On Sunday morning, I rise before dawn to explore Carlton Marshes, a Suffolk Wildlife Trust nature reserve that’s a 20-minute drive away. The sunrise fills the vast sky with pink, and I have the seemingly endless marshes of the Waveney to myself, silent reeds silvered by frost. A Chinese water deer watches me, its teddy bear ears twitching, as I circle round the reserve, which is a haven for rare dragonflies and the spectacular fen raft spider in spring and summer. Although this coast is dominated by the surprisingly large conurbation of Great Yarmouth, Lowestoft and surrounding villages, Gorleston-on-Sea’s sandy beach offers another great stroll with seabirds and salty air.

Later that day, while my wife, Lisa, does a yoga class, I head for a farewell sauna and find the open session is packed with a friendly crowd of regulars who say they wish Somerleyton would build another sauna or two. I pop outside and duck into the lake, cracking ice as I gasp with the delicious cold shock.

We head home much less frantically than we arrived – a sign of the nourishment provided by a weekend of painterly light, stripped-back landscapes, cold water, warm hospitality and the gorgeous avian soundtrack of this wild, wintery east.

The trip was provided by Fritton Lake. Clubhouse rooms from £130; two-bed cabins from £275.

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Hilltop village with the best views and ancient Norman castle

This village in North Yorkshire is dominated by the impressive ruins of a Grade I listed Norman castle, alongside stunning countryside views and a Michelin Guide-recognised pub

This tranquil hilltop village nestled in North Yorkshire offers the perfect combination of peaceful countryside, scenic walks and stunning views, alongside a fascinating mediaeval heritage.

Crayke is a charming yet compact village boasting numerous historic buildings that history enthusiasts will relish discovering. Dominating the village skyline stands the magnificent Crayke Castle, which holds Grade I listed status.

What remains today are the ruins of what was once a grand and formidable 15th-century palace, now in private ownership and safeguarded due to its rich historical significance.

The four-storey structure contains countless tales within its ancient walls, with origins stretching back to the period following the Norman Conquest.

Whilst the present-day castle was erected by the distinguished Bishop of Durham, substantial evidence indicates it was built upon land that had belonged to the See of Durham since Saxon times.

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Perched at 379 feet above sea level, it ranks among the most striking structures across the Yorkshire countryside, though it can only be appreciated from the exterior and at a distance, as public access is not permitted.

When exploring the village, many visitors choose to soak up the panoramas from the Crayke Viewpoint Park Bench.

It’s a favoured destination for tourists, as it involves an easy walking route with minimal difficulty, whilst delivering equally spectacular views. In fact, people can even drive right up and park beside the bench, meaning absolutely no walking is necessary.

On crystal-clear days, the vantage point reveals sweeping panoramas across countless miles of farmland, forests and York city centre, making it an ideal location for a spontaneous picnic.

Adding further charm to the locale is St Cuthbert’s Church, which boasts more than 1,300 years of history with connections to the saint himself.

Historians believe St Cuthbert established a monastery on this very spot as early as 685 AD, whilst the present building predominantly dates from 1490.

The impressive structure showcases Victorian oak panelling that mirrors some of its former mediaeval features and stands atop a hill offering sweeping countryside views.

Today, it functions as an active place of worship within the Easingwold deanery and hosts a club for residents. As with any traditional village, Crayke boasts a welcoming pub at its centre, called the Durham Ox.

The establishment has been operated by the same family for more than 25 years, and continues to flourish whilst serving award-winning food in a relaxed and friendly environment.

Championing locally sourced ingredients, The Durham Ox attracts numerous patrons from within the village and beyond, earning recognition in the Michelin Guide.

One visitor recently praised their meal on TripAdvisor as deserving “five stars”. They wrote: “In our opinion, all the staff went above and beyond…The food was out of this world, and the accommodation was beautiful and comfy, and there was no need to leave, as it had everything you would need.”

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Forgotten in time village with dark past is ‘must-visit’

The historic Derbyshire village has become a popular spot for visitors in recent years, with people describing it as a ‘hidden gem’ – but it’s hiding a dark history

Tucked away in the Derbyshire countryside lies a charming village, rich in history and hailed by visitors as a true “hidden gem”. However, this idyllic spot conceals a much darker past.

During the tumultuous times of the Great Plague in the 1600s, when the entire nation was in turmoil, the villagers of Eyam chose to defy convention.

As people across Britain were abandoning their homes in a desperate bid to evade infection, the arrival of the plague in Eyam in August 1665 prompted the villagers to do the exact opposite – they resolved to stay put.

It’s believed the disease got into the village via a parcel of cloth sent from London to a local tailor. The tailor’s assistant succumbed to the illness just days after airing the damp cloth, triggering a rapid spread of the disease throughout the village.

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In a collective act of self-sacrifice, the villagers opted for voluntary quarantine, reasoning that fleeing would only propagate the plague further afield.

The rules were stringent – no one was permitted to leave or enter the village, a harsh regime that persisted for an arduous 14 months.

Despite these measures, the village suffered a devastating loss of approximately 260 lives, decimating a significant portion of its population. Tragically, it’s said that one villager was forced to bury six of her children and her husband in just eight days

Eyam Museum serves as an ideal starting point for visitors keen to delve into the village’s poignant history during those dark days. The area is dotted with sites that tell compelling tales of the plague and its devastating impact.

One recent visitor hailed the place as a “hidden gem”. Another shared their experience on TripAdvisor, saying: “Really enjoyed our visit to the Eyam Museum. Staff were welcoming and friendly.

“Despite its compact size, the museum offers plenty to see; a diverse range of visual displays about the Plague and also the history of Eyam’s residents. We’d certainly recommend a visit.”

Another visitor added, writing: “This museum was really interesting – much better than expected from a small museum! The history is fascinating and very well laid out – they manage to bring it to life by the stories of the individuals and families who both survived and died.”

Also nestled within the village is Eyam Hall and Courtyard, a 17th-century manor house complete with stunning gardens and Bloom Bar and Grill for shopping and dining.

One visitor shared: “A beautiful venue for a wedding! Such a gorgeous, peaceful village with stunning surroundings and grounds. This made for an incredibly memorable evening.”

Following a visit to the on-site café, another visitor shared their experience: “We dropped into Bloom looking for a light lunch. We settled for a coffee and a Margarita pizza, which definitely exceeded expectations – my friend said it was the best pizza she had ever tasted. Service was attentive, and the ambiance was calm and peaceful.”

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Spain is no longer Europe’s ‘best country for expats’ as Brits ditch it for sun-soaked alternative

Mass tourism and property taxes in Spain could be to blame for the dip in the destination’s popularity among expats as another beautiful hot spot is tipped to take its crown in the coming years

With its warm, sunny climate, lower cost of living and excellent healthcare, Spain has long been a favourite for British retirees and remote workers looking for a slower pace of life. But that could be changing, according to experts who warn that another country is gaining in popularity.

While it still remains one of the top destinations for expats, it has become trickier for those hoping to permanently relocate and buy property in the country. Search data around emigration suggests that interest in Spain is starting to wane among those considering a move abroad.

Experts claim a glorious neighbouring country, with mild winters, a welcoming culture, and an exceptional safety record, has recently seen a spike in searches among the group.

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For the second year running, the relocation company, 1st Move International, analysed Google search data around emigration. As well as the expected 22% rise in the search term at the start of the year, presumably thanks to the New Year blues and dreary British winter weather, they discovered that Spain’s expat appeal had declined by 28%.

Not only that, but they noticed an 18.9% year-on-year increase in searches for Portugal. Already in the top 10 destinations for UK expats, the popular holiday spot looks to be snapping at the heels of its Spanish neighbour, perhaps in part to its relatively straightforward path to residency.

In comparison, one of the ways Spain has addressed its housing shortage and battle with mass tourism is by introducing new tax measures on foreign property buyers. Mike Harvey, managing director at 1st Move International, explains: “Spain’s long been a UK favourite for retirees and Brits looking for a warmer, calmer pace of life, and for now that remains true. However, mass tourism and the decision to impose taxes on foreign property buyers have affected affordability, making it more complex for retirees and long-term residents to move to Spain.”

He adds: “While these measures aim to address housing shortages, they may also have unintended consequences for international buyers and those seeking a flexible lifestyle abroad. Spain’s interest among Brits has begun to dip, and neighbour Portugal may take Spain’s crown in the coming years. Portugal’s already firmly among Brits’ top 10 expat hotspots, and it’s creeping up the ladder with emigration searches increasing.”

Spain ranked ninth among countries with the steepest drop in emigration-related searches, with Rwanda at the top, followed by Iceland. On the flip side, Portugal – a popular holiday destination with celebrities such as Madonna, Holly Willoughby, and even Prince Harry – saw a 4% year-on-year increase in searches.

It seems movers are generally motivated by lifestyle and language, with English-speaking countries and a sunny climate dominating overall trends. Canada was once again the most desirable place to relocate to globally, ranking as the top destination among 75 countries worldwide. The United States is the most popular destination for UK movers, followed by the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Australia. New York City is the most searched US city among UK residents, followed by Los Angeles and Miami.

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Brits warned of new £360 fines for vaping in winter sun destination as new rules for 2026 kick in

Strict new rules have been enforced in a favourite winter holiday hot spot that could see any tourist who vapes or brings an electronic cigarette product into the country slapped with a hefty fine or even put behind bars

Thanks to its sunny, comfortable, and dry weather from November through to April, Mexico has been a top destination for those seeking winter warmth for many years.

However, British tourists jetting off to the North American country and its popular holiday spots need to be aware of severe punishments if they break harsh new rules on vaping.

Not only is it now illegal to vape in a public space, where on-the-spot fines can be enforced, but a new ban on importing electronic cigarettes means holidaymakers who enter the country by land or sea with their device on their person could face time in jail.

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Mexico already had strict laws on smoking and vaping in public since 2023, with immediate fines of up to 3,000 Mexican pesos (about £150) enforceable for anyone caught violating the rules. It includes a ban on puffing in beaches, parks, and public transport, as well as enclosed spaces. But on January 16 President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo published a constitutional reform which banned the importation, sale and distribution of vaping products. The law came into force the following day.

The amendment stated: “The law will penalize all activities related to electronic cigarettes, vaping devices, and other analogous electronic systems or devices specified by law, as well as the production, distribution, and sale of toxic substances, chemical precursors, the illicit use of fentanyl, and other unauthorized synthetic drugs.”

Tourists may think they are exempt from the rules, but they are not, and customs officials in popular destinations like Cancún, Cabo San Lucas, and Cozumel are said to be rigorously enforcing the ban.

Reports vary on what the punishments could be, but the British government strongly advises against taking any devices into the country or using them whilst there. “It is illegal to bring e-cigarettes, vaping devices and solutions into Mexico or to buy and sell them,” it states. “Customs officials will confiscate these items, and they could fine or detain you,” it adds.

As well as affecting flights into Mexico, the ban includes travellers on cruise ships stopping off anywhere on shore. “Disposables, refillable models, pods, and even non-nicotine devices,” are also included in the vape ban,” Cruise Hive reports.

It says that if holidaymakers are caught, they could see their devices confiscated, face huge fines “of up to $12,500, and/or detainment”. The publication adds that the crime is punishable by up to eight years in prison.

One traveller who claimed to have been detained by authorities for being in possession of a vape in the country just after the law was introduced said they were given the choice of prison or a whopping fine. “I came through the airport 1/18 and had a vape. I was detained and given the option of jail or 4K USD fine,” they wrote on Reddit.

Other countries that have imposed laws and bans on vaping include India, Thailand, Singapore, Brazil, Argentina, Qatar and Vietnam.

As of last year, it was estimated up to 5.6million Brits were vapers, which equated to around 11% of the population.

For the first time, the number of people who smoke traditional tobacco products in the UK has been outnumbered by vapers.

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I stayed at the UK’s lowest-rated budget hotel – one paid-for feature stunned me

Britannia Hotels has been named the UK’s worst hotel chain for 12 consecutive years by Which? So I decided to book a stay at Britannia Hampstead to see if it really is as bad as everyone says

There aren’t many hotels that slap a £10 charge on opening windows or appear completely deserted in the run-up to Christmas. And there’s just one hotel chain that’s been crowned the worst in Britain for 12 years running.

To sample such treats, you need to book yourself into a Britannia.

The chain has become the stuff of folklore. Half a century after launching its first property, the Country House Hotel in Didsbury, Manchester, it has expanded to roughly 60 locations spanning the UK before acquiring Pontins.

Yet, the tale isn’t entirely rosy. Britannia has faced severe criticism over the years from disgruntled guests who claim it has transformed once-magnificent buildings into grubby, disagreeable, and uncomfortable accommodation that fails to deliver value, even at rock-bottom prices.

My initial encounter with Britannia occurred back in 2022, during those heady post-lockdown months when I caught the train to Bournemouth to stay at a hotel that has since been converted to accommodate asylum seekers. The jammed-shut windows and overpowering paint fumes made for a sweltering and clammy evening, whilst the empty outdoor pool, abandoned underwear in the courtyard, and scattered laughing gas canisters only heightened the overwhelming atmosphere of abandonment, reports the Mirror.

Have you had a memorable hotel stay, either good or bad? Email webtravel@reachplc.com

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With those troubling images fresh in my mind, I approached my local Britannia with considerable apprehension, eager to discover whether Britain’s most criticised hotel chain had made any improvements.

It hadn’t.

The Britannia Hampstead proved to be a dispiriting experience, though in distinctly different ways to its coastal sister property. Here’s how it stacked up against a recent stay at The Manor in Blakeney, North Norfolk. The Manor belongs to the Coaching Inn Group, which Which? readers crowned the UK’s best large hotel chain of 2025, whilst Britannia languished at the very bottom. This is what distinguishes excellence from mediocrity.

Atmosphere

During my Bournemouth expedition, there was considerably more activity. The hotel felt inhabited.

I was acutely aware of this because I could hear bickering couples and other guests’ television programmes seeping through my bedroom walls. I’d have gladly welcomed even the faintest sounds of human presence during this visit.

The six-floor London establishment, spacious enough to accommodate a 350-capacity conference suite, felt utterly deserted. The fairy lights twinkled away, yet the place seemed abandoned entirely.

By contrast, The Manor radiated energy. Despite being a solid hour’s bike ride from the nearest railway station, even during the depths of November, it bustled with life, warmth and friendliness.

Staff members were keen to engage in conversation, as were the patrons gathered at the bar, savouring special weekend breaks or enjoying a swift beverage in what doubled as their neighbourhood watering hole.

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Accommodation

My stay at the Hampstead Britannia, while not award-winning, was a marked improvement from my experience in Bournemouth. In Bournemouth, I was greeted by a lone dead fly on the windowsill and a heavily stained armchair.

A protruding screw from a picture frame added to the room’s charm. For several hours, we were left in the dark as all lights, except for the bathroom’s, were non-functional. The only source of noise was the ear-splitting extractor fan until a friendly receptionist revealed that the main electricity switch was cunningly hidden beneath the kettle.

In contrast, my North London accommodation was simply… uninspiring. It was so spotless that my UV torch couldn’t detect a speck of dirt.I suspect the overpowering smell of cleaning products played a part in this. The decor consisted of dated, predominantly brown furniture, but it wasn’t offensive.

At times during the night, the absence of windows made me feel like I was serving time. However, I managed to sleep, wake up, and escape to share my story. Meanwhile, over in Norfolk, the situation is quite different. The Manor boasts 36 rooms, with the most affordable option available for £99 next week.

It offers typical budget hotel amenities, but with a touch of quality. There’s a cosy double bed, a decent-sized telly, and a tastefully decorated bathroom. Everything is sturdy, clean, and inviting.

Staff

Regarding the staff at the Britannia hotel that evening, I honestly can’t grumble too much. They appeared pleasant enough, though perhaps somewhat preoccupied during our brief exchanges.

The person on reception couldn’t quite explain why the restaurant and bar had shut up shop. Beyond that, my contact with employees was largely confined to curious glances thrown my way as I sat with my book in the deserted foyer.

By contrast, the Manor is entirely staff-focused. A significant number have clocked up well over a decade of service there.

Roughly half appear to belong to the Hill family, including Tore, Karen, Sophie and Wayne. Throughout my visit, they were consistently available to check everything was as it should be and to share local knowledge.

For myself, and the talkative regulars who greeted staff by their first names, this genuine friendliness is a huge selling point. It elevates the establishment from merely somewhere to kip and grab dinner, into a welcoming retreat where you actually want to spend time.

Location

This ought to be where Britannia excels. In my view, guests put up with substandard accommodation because of the ease of stumbling back to a city centre location following a work trip or lads’ weekend.

The Hampstead property delivers none of that convenience. It’s not close enough to either the Heath or Camden to genuinely claim either neighbourhood, and it’s an absolute trek from central London.

I can only picture the letdown awaiting tourists who hadn’t done their homework before making a reservation. Blakeney, by contrast, is a delightful destination.

The hotel sits just metres from the River Glaven, which meanders through the National Nature Reserve. The nearby Blakeney Point is famous for its seal colonies, with Beans Boat providing guided tours year-round.

Most Coaching Inn Group hotels occupy similarly picturesque and secluded rural settings.

Price

According to its website, windowless rooms at the London Britannia start from £55. However, mine came to nearly £90 including breakfast. Had I chosen the coveted window option, the cost would’ve reached the £100 mark.

Rooms at the Manor average £128 per night. Whilst that’s hardly bargain-basement, the Which? survey saw the hotel achieve four out of five stars for value for money – one of only two establishments to do so.

The other was Wetherspoons. I stayed at the Spoons Hotel in Canterbury last November, where overnight accommodation costs just £55, with an average price of £70.

Spoons comfortably wins the value crown in my opinion, with Coaching Inn Group trailing close behind. Britannia, though, delivers precious little for what represents a substantial price tag.

According to Which?, the average room rate across all its hotels stands at £84. Even in today’s money, that’s disappointing.

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The verdict

Nothing during my Britannia stay persuaded me that it’s improving or likely to shake off its unwanted ‘worst in class’ reputation any time soon. I’m confident it’ll claim the bottom position for a thirteenth consecutive year.

Britannia’s business model appears to involve acquiring impressive historic buildings and offering rooms at budget-friendly prices. Given the sheer scale of these properties, undertaking comprehensive modern refurbishments would represent a substantial financial gamble.

It seems the company’s leadership has calculated that maintaining minimal overheads is preferable, even if profit margins remain modest. The consequence is a chain comprising numerous dilapidated establishments that routinely disappoint guests.

By contrast, Coaching Inn Group demonstrates how things should be done. For virtually identical rates, guests can enjoy stays at its delightful properties, complete with cosy, welcoming rooms and employees who appear genuinely passionate about their roles.

Frankly, there’s simply no comparison between the two.

Britannia has been contacted for comment.

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Luxury British train that makes you feel like you’re stepping into the 1930s to launch this summer 

A NEW luxury train experience is coming to the UK later this year.

A new carriage will appear on the British Pullman named Celia, after the fictional character created by director Baz Luhrmann and cinematic designer Catherine Martin.

Celia will be on the British Pullman from summer 2026Credit: Belmond
The carriage will be an original carriage from 1932Credit: Belmond

According to the duo, Celia is a West End icon from the 1930s who once played Titania in Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream.

Set in an original 1932 Pullman carriage, Celia will boast a cocktail bar, lounge, dining and entertainment area that feels as if you are heading back to the 1930s.

Up to 12 guests at a time can experience the carriage via private and bespoke events.

The carriage is designed to create a luxury private dining experience, as well as showcase the train carriage’s historical charm.

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During the day, Celia will be a reception carriage and then in the evening it will turn into the “most refined venue”.

When guests reserve Celia for an event, a Guest Experience Curator will plan each detail.

Passengers will also get private luxury transfers within Greater London to and from London Victoria.

And there will even be a personal chef, butler and steward.

On the menu, passengers can create their own brunch, lunch and dinner menus.

Welcome drinks, such as a seasonal cocktail or champagne, will also be provided.

And to elevate the experience even more, there will be bespoke activities available to book.

Baz Luhrmann said that Celia is based on a woman who, after a Sunday matinee of ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’, headed off with her friends to escape the crowds and head on the British Pullman.

Baz said: “From the moment someone receives an invitation, or chooses to board Celia, they should be drawn instantly into her world and be swept into the glamorous, mysterious life of the actress for whom the carriage was named.”

He added: “Celia also has the capacity to transform into a performance space; I have no doubt a musical artist could have great fun staging an unplugged session or making an album announcement there.

And it has been designed by director Baz Luhrmann and cinematic designer Catherine MartinCredit: Belmond

“And of course, we’ll be fitting out the carriage with a terrific sound system and speakers to support that.”

On the idea behind the carriage, Catherine Martin revealed that once they had Baz’s character of Celia, the interior design of the carriage was based on Celia’s life story.

Baz added: “We’re both devoted lovers of slow travel as there’s an undeniable magic and romance to these kinds of journeys.

“It’s a form of travel that lends itself to being told in the most evocative and cinematic ways.”

The Belmond British Pullman usually travels day and weekend journeys around Britain.

In other rail news, here’s the UK train journey that feels like the Hogwarts Express with stunning views along the way.

Plus, picturesque English town is getting new £27m train line for first time in 60 years – and it will cut journey times by an hour.

The carriage will accommodate up to 12 guests a timeCredit: Belmond

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Fury as two MORE airports hike their drop-off parking fees to £7 in ‘national disgrace’

TWO more UK airports have raised the price of their drop-off charges, in what is becoming an increasingly common trend for drivers.

Glasgow and Aberdeen airports have announced they are increasing their fees to £7 for up to 15 minutes, with Glasgow rising by £1 and Aberdeen up from £5.50.

Aerial view of cars and other vehicles outside Terminal 3 in London Heathrow  Airport
Glasgow and Aberdeen airports are increasing terminal drop-off fees to £7 for up to 15 minutes, citing rising costs and pointing drivers towards free long-stay alternativesCredit: Getty
Sign to the Pickup spot, and short and main stay car parks.
Airport ‘kiss-and-fly’ charges continue to climb across the UK, with several major hubs now charging £7 or more for short staysCredit: Getty

AGS Airports, which operates both sites, said the increases reflect higher running costs and that the extra income will help the airports remain competitive and attract new routes.

It acknowledged the decision would not be popular, while some critics have described the wider rise in airport drop-off fees as “price gouging” and “a national disgrace”, as reported by Travel Tomorrow.

AGS has stressed that drivers have a free alternative at both airports, with up to one hour’s free parking in long-stay car parks and an on-demand shuttle service to and from the terminal.

They said: “It is important to keep in mind that there is always a free alternative where customers can park for up to one hour.

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“This is located in our long-stay car park, and passengers can use a free, on-demand shuttle service to and from the terminal.

“The pick-up and drop-off area is intended for short visits of up to 15 minutes only.

“We would encourage anyone who thinks they may be longer to use the free alternative or our short-stay car park.

“Valid Blue Badge holders continue to receive 30 minutes free in our Short-Stay Car Park.”

The increases also reflect a recent pattern across the UK, with airports such as Edinburgh having raised prices previously as well as other hubs charging comparable or higher rates.

These include Leeds, Luton, Heathrow and Stansted at £7, London City charging £8, Bristol at £8.50 and Gatwick increasing to £10 for 10 minutes.

London City introduced its charge for the first time at the start of the year, while Gatwick, Heathrow and Bristol also increased their fees.

Opponents, including Clive Wratten of the Business Travel Association, have argued that outside London, public transport is often not a practical substitute, meaning higher kerbside fees can simply shift costs onto passengers, workers, businesses and the taxi trade rather than changing behaviour.

There have also been calls for clearer, more transparent pricing, as well as proposals such as a cap – for example, £3 per drop-off – as well as a single daily charge to avoid people being hit by charges twice.

UK pricing has also been compared to several large European airports, including the Paris Charles de Gaulle and Frankfurt airports, where short drop-offs can be free for limited periods.

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