When it comes to packing for a winter getaway, it can be tough to fit all of your bulky clothes into a small suitcase – but there’s a simple hack that will help you maximise space.
Nicola Roy Spare Time writer
09:46, 14 Nov 2025
(Image: Panuwat Dangsungnoen via Getty Images)
There’s nothing quite like the excitement of a winter city break. Cities such as Berlin, Copenhagen and Vienna truly come to life during the festive season, and many of these destinations offer affordable flights too.
If you’re only jetting off for a long weekend, you likely won’t need a large suitcase. However, packing bulky winter clothes into a small bag can be a challenge.
To help travellers, experts have shared a simple technique that allows you to fit much more into your luggage – and it’s not the rolling packing method.
Essentials like coats, knitted jumpers and chunky boots are all must-haves for a winter getaway, but with limited packing space, it’s not always feasible to bring everything you desire.
However, travel PR gurus at Pure Digital PR have shared some of their top packing hacks that they swear by to maximise space and minimise stress – and topping the list is vacuum packing, reports the Express.
This straightforward trick removes the air from clothes, significantly reducing their size and creating extra room for those essential winter items.
The method can shrink the volume of bulky items like fleeces and padded jackets by up to 50 per cent, meaning you can pack twice the amount without forking out for additional charges for checked baggage.
Another game-changer is investing in packing cubes, which help organise your luggage into tidy, compressed sections.
The travel expert said: “We recommend colour-coding your cubes, one for tops, another for bottoms, and a separate one for accessories, making it easy to find what you need without unpacking your entire suitcase.”
This approach works particularly well for families travelling together, as each member can have their own colour-coded system.
The experts also highlighted the importance of selecting versatile items you pack, choosing clothes with multiple functions that can be mixed and matched.
The expert added: “A versatile black jumper can be dressed up for dinner or worn casually during the day, while a quality jacket that’s both waterproof and warm eliminates the need for multiple coats.
“Choosing a neutral colour palette also means fewer items overall, as everything coordinates seamlessly.”
Finally, wearing your bulkiest clothing during travel rather than packing them can free up considerable suitcase space. Make sure to wear your heaviest boots and thickest coat for the flight or journey, even if you feel slightly warm at the airport.
THOUSANDS of travellers are being warned to brace for major disruption this weekend as engineering works are set to cause significant delays at the UK’s busiest airport.
Heathrow, which is set to handle around 84 million passengers this year, has announced that major rail connections to and from the airport will be closed this weekend while essential maintenance work is carried out.
Sign up for the Travel newsletter
Thank you!
Travellers are being urged to consider alternative routesCredit: Shutterstock / van Blerk
The disruption will affect travellers using the Heathrow Express and Elizabeth line on Saturday November 15 and Sunday November 15, prompting airport officials to advise passengers to plan ahead and allow extra time for their journeys.
Heathrow Airport announced the closure on X, formerly Twitter, warning: “Due to planned engineering works, there will be no Heathrow Express or Elizabeth line train services to/from Heathrow on Sat 15 & Sun 16 November 2025.
“Piccadilly Line services to/from #Heathrow will be running as normal. Please plan your journey in advance as other services will be busier than normal.”
The engineering works are taking place between Hayes & Harlington and Heathrow Airport stations, and according to National Rail, “all lines” on the route will be closed during the two-day period.
The National Rail website also states: “No trains to / from London Heathrow Airport from Saturday 15 to Sunday 16 November.”
This means that both the Heathrow Express and Elizabeth line will be completely out of service over the weekend, affecting thousands of passengers travelling to or from the airport.
Routes listed as affected include the Elizabeth line between Shenfield and Heathrow Airport and the Heathrow Express between London Paddington and Heathrow Airport.
To help travellers plan ahead, Heathrow has released the times of the final trains before the closures begin.
The last Heathrow Express service from Terminal 5 will leave at 11.57pm on Friday, while the final train from Terminals 2 and 3 will depart at 12.03am.
From London Paddington, the final Heathrow Express departs at 11.25pm.
As for the Elizabeth line, the final service to central London will depart Terminal 5 at 12.07am, Terminals 2 and 3 at 12.12am, and Terminal 4 at 11.37pm.
The last Elizabeth line train from Paddington will leave at 11.24pm.
Those travelling from Terminals 2 and 3 to Terminal 5 can catch the final Elizabeth line service at 11.37pm, while the last train from Terminal 4 to Terminals 2 and 3 departs at 11.52pm.
Despite the disruption, the Piccadilly line will continue to operate as normal, providing the only direct underground connection to Heathrow throughout the weekend.
Travellers are being urged to consider alternative routes, including TfL Rail replacement buses, coach services, and taxis, which are likely to experience increased demand.
A Heathrow spokesperson reminded passengers: “We encourage everyone travelling on 15 and 16 November to check before they travel and allow extra time for their journey.
“With trains not running, roads and alternative transport will be busier than usual.”
The works form part of ongoing infrastructure improvements aimed at maintaining safety and reliability on the network.
However, the timing has sparked frustration among passengers planning half-term holidays and weekend getaways.
Experts have also warned that disruption could spill over into Monday morning as services return to normal and trains are repositioned.
For up-to-date travel information, passengers are being advised to check the Heathrow Express, Elizabeth line, and National Rail websites before setting off.
The Sun has approached Heathrow for comment.
The disruption will affect travellers using the Heathrow Express and Elizabeth line on Saturday November 15 and Sunday November 15Credit: pablorebo1984
For those who love the idea of a holiday but need their beauty sleep to last, look no further than this city
08:00, 14 Nov 2025Updated 08:37, 14 Nov 2025
Vilnius has a rich wellness culture(Image: Go Vilnius)
Forget beaches and sunshine – for many of us, the prospect of five nights of quality sleep on holiday is more than enough. If this sounds like your getaway priority, look no further than Vilnius, the Lithuanian capital – which has just been named the top European destination for sleep tourism.
With its profound wellness culture, Vilnius provides exactly what “sleepcation” travellers are seeking: saunas, spas, and local rituals, designed for deep relaxation, according to Go Vilnius. You can also effortlessly take day trips to the UNESCO dunes on the Curonian Spit or meander through the surrounding forests of Neris National Park. Assessing air quality, light pollution, green space, nightlife, rainfall, and nighttime temperatures, the research examined 300 cities, reports the Express.
In the city, 61% of the urban area is green, trees blanket 48% of the city, and 95% of residents live within 300 metres of greenery. “In Vilnius, I always find ways to relax, no matter the time of the year. During the warm season, I enjoy spending time outdoors in Vilnius’ numerous green spaces or the nearby forests and lakes. In winter, relaxing walks around the Old Town improve my sleep, while the city’s numerous spas and saunas help me unwind after a long day or week,” said Madu Melo, Brazilian expat and marketing professional, living in Vilnius for five years now.
Lithuania, already crowned the World’s Best Wellness Destination by the ITB Health Tourism Awards 2025, has seen its capital Vilnius dubbed the European Sleep Capital, making it a rising star for restful getaways. Here are five unique wellness rituals, woven into city life, that ensure locals and visitors in Vilnius enjoy a good night’s sleep.
Held in the vaulted cellar of the refurbished 17th-century Pacai Palace, this multi-sensory ritual brings Lithuania’s coastlines and forests into a tranquil treatment. The experience kicks off with a four-hand full-body massage and a soft tolling of Old Town bells, mixed with the soundscape of the Baltic Sea and Curonian Lagoon (a tribute to the UNESCO-listed dunes).
Guests are then offered a taste of natural birch sap, invited to inhale the scent of handpicked linden, chamomile, and clover, and to appreciate the beauty of Lithuanian nature for total sensory relaxation. Located beneath the Bokšto Square complex in restored medieval cellars, this circuit alternates between heat and recovery. The 25-meter, four-lane pool sets the rhythm for rounds of traditional sauna, salt sauna, and hammam, punctuated by brief cold dips.
The standout feature is Cloud9, a short vibro-acoustic session on a gently swaying bed that aids the nervous system in unwinding. In a cosy boutique setting on Kalvarij Street, just a stone’s throw from the city centre, groups remain small, allowing the sauna master to maintain the perfect pace.
Visitors can look forward to timed garas (steam waves), traditional birch or oak vanta whisking, aroma infusions of natural scents, and simple breath-work, with each round concluded by a refreshing cold-water dip. After the New Year, an igloo-shaped outdoor sauna will be unveiled in the courtyard of the former Lukišks Prison, now a cultural hub. This unique sauna experience combines brief heat sessions with cold-water baths. The small groups and the thick walls of the igloo ensure tranquillity, enhancing the hot-cold contrast and making it easier to concentrate on breathing and pace.
Nestled next to Sudervl stream and a 1923 windmill, three bathhouses – the Old, the Great, and the Small – offer leisurely, expert-led rituals. Over approximately three hours, guests are treated to measured steam dosings and vanta whiskings, paired with applications of honey and salt, all while enjoying peaceful intervals by the pond or river.
The forest setting and preserved wooden buildings complete the experience, helping visitors unwind without leaving the city. The conversation about wellness and sleep will continue in Vilnius on 22 November at Sleep Fest. The event will feature international experts such as Dr. Daniel Amen, Leslie Kenny, and others, who will share insights on how to incorporate sleep science into everyday routines to reduce anxiety and improve sleep quality.
“Sleep Fest is about bridging the gap between science and real-life challenges. We’re trying to show that better sleep and calmer minds aren’t luxuries, but necessities anyone could have through building everyday habits that help to improve the overall wellbeing,” said Diana Augunait, the organiser of the Sleep Fest.
Vilnius’ recent accolades, including the European Green Capital and European Christmas Capital 2025, highlight the city’s tranquil atmosphere: plentiful green spaces, traditional stress-free Christmas celebrations, and much more.
Conveniently reachable via Frankfurt, Copenhagen, or Helsinki, Vilnius is ideal for a comprehensive European wellness journey or simply a dedicated “sleepcation”.
This beach in North Wales is a popular spot for those looking to unwind and immerse themselves in nature, with its golden sands, dunes, and views of the Snowdonia mountains
The walks around the beach can be enjoyed whatever the weather
For a day of pure relaxation, surrounded by stunning natural beauty, there’s arguably no finer spot to escape than this gorgeous beach in NorthWales.
Renowned for its breathtaking scenery, Llanddwyn Beach on the Isle of Anglesey has captured widespread acclaim for resembling something plucked directly from a holiday brochure. This idyllic location boasts not only pristine golden sands complete with dunes and crystal-clear waters, but also spectacular vistas of the majestic Snowdonia mountains.
As part of the Newborough Warren National Nature Reserve, this coastal gem draws crowds keen on kitesurfing, rambling, and observing local wildlife, though many visitors report feeling blissfully isolated during their stay. The location provides an atmosphere of complete serenity, particularly the trek towards the ancient lighthouse remains, which can only be reached during low tide along an extended pathway.
One recent holidaymaker shared their thoughts on TripAdvisor, describing the island, shoreline and panoramic views as utterly “magical”. They said: “Wow. One of the best beaches we have ever been to. Spectacular views, space and an adjoining forest area for walking too. The wall and views walking Llanddwyn, a small island, are breathtaking. Photos cannot do justice, and there’s loads of parking for beach access too.”
Another delighted traveller shared their joy from discovering the beach, writing: “A stroll down the beach, then as the tide goes out, the island becomes a peninsula. There are many paths to explore, and it’s worth using the smaller ones to the left as you come across deserted beaches and cliff tops with fantastic views over Snowdonia.
“I barely saw a soul! There are old buildings and old stories abound to discover. The place is magical and a place to just sit and be.” Whilst one holidaymaker said the beach boasts “beautiful white sands”, others favour wandering through the woodlands.
One person said: “There is a path that leads through the grassy hills from the beach to the nature reserve on Llanddwyn Island (Ynys Llanddwyn), and the surrounding forest has an excellent network of footpaths.”
Regarding the lighthouse itself, there’s masses of heritage to soak up. Its official name is Twr Mawr, perched on the tidal island of Ynys Llanddwyn, and it dates all the way back to 1845.
The grade II listed structure was crafted with the Anglesey windmills in mind, built to mirror their splendour, and reaches up to 10 metres high. Though, standing alongside it is another lighthouse called Twr Bach; whilst it’s more compact than its companion, this one continues to operate today.
During the summer that’s just passed, this stunning location gained even more attention for its scorching temperatures amongst holidaymakers. The Met Office logged it as one of the regions worst hit by the heatwave and, within the area, documented it as Britain’s most sweltering location.
However, adventurers should be aware there’s equally spectacular scenery to discover throughout the year. One review states: “We’ve only been here during the winter so far, but whether you venture down in stormy weather to get blown off your feet as you watch the sea raging, or you catch a calm day when the sun is shining, it’s impressive.”
The village of Merthyr Mawr, in the Vale of Glamorgan, Wales, is like stepping into a fairytale, with its thatched cottages, babbling brooks and stunning historical sites
08:00, 14 Nov 2025Updated 08:26, 14 Nov 2025
The Church of St Teilo(Image: WalesOnline/Rob Browne)
Tucked away in the lush, rolling hills of Vale of Glamorgan, the quaint village of Merthyr Mawr is a real-life fairytale come to life. With its charming thatched cottages and awe-inspiring historical sites, it’s more akin to a Cotswolds hamlet than a location just a quick ten-minute drive from Bridgend.
Despite being home to a mere 300 residents and lacking a high street, this picture-perfect Welsh village has made its mark on the silver screen. Its nearby dunes were used as a filming location for the 1962 classic Lawrence of Arabia, according to Discover Britain. A gently babbling brook meanders through ancient woodland, while Shire horses graze in the verdant fields. And the best part? This hidden treasure is often devoid of crowds. The village’s name, Merthyr Mawr, originates from Merthyr Mymor or Myfor, a Welsh Saint believed to have met his end on these very grounds, reports Wales Online.
Archaeological research over the years has traced the village’s roots back thousands of years, even identifying it as a hub of prehistoric activity. Artefacts ranging from Stone Age flints to Bronze Age burial sites have been discovered here. Beyond the dark ages, visitors can marvel at Roman roads that sit alongside Victorian stonework. At the heart of the village lies the Merthyr Mawr Estate. This 19th-century mansion was constructed by landed gentry Sir John Nicholl.
To this day, it remains a private residence with the majority of the village and surrounding property owned by those who live there. This means that properties in the village are highly sought after as they seldom come up for sale and have often been in the family for generations. The best way to explore Merthyr Mawr is on foot – to fully appreciate the unique views and tranquil atmosphere. You can stroll past the village greens and the tennis club towards St Teilo’s Church.
Its graveyard is awash with vibrant flowers in the spring and summer months. During the day, sunlight streams through the intricate stained-glass windows. Believed to be built on the site of a structure that predates the 19th century, the church also houses a small collection of inscribed medieval stones from the 5th century. A ten-minute walk from the church will lead you to Ogmore Castle.
Nestled next to the Ewenny River, you can access its robust stone walls by stepping across ancient stepping stones used by the castle’s princess, who, according to legend, used them to meet her lover on a neighbouring bank of land. This 12th-century keep once protected the Norman-held lands of Glamorgan. Further along, you’ll find Candleston Castle, a later 14th-century manor house, fortified for the de Cantaloupe family.
If you’ve had your fill of culture and fancy some fun, there’s an outdoor sauna tucked away in the woods where you can unwind. This sauna is a traditional Lithuanian spot, meaning it uses a wood-fire to heat its hot tubs. Venture along the coastal path to the Merthyr Mawr Warren National Nature Reserve and you’ll discover something truly unique – a ‘Sahara Desert’ that featured in Lawrence of Arabia. After your enchanting adventure, if you’re feeling peckish, make your way to Ogmore village. Here, Cobbles Kitchen serves up a mouth-watering roast. To round off your day, pop into the Pelican Inn for a cosy pint by the fireside.
This magical location in the UK is a woodland so bewitching and mysterious it appears to have been lifted straight out of a storybook — it’s the perfect destination for a weekend getaway.
08:00, 14 Nov 2025Updated 08:25, 14 Nov 2025
The forest is brimming with intrigue and enchantment(Image: Janet Baxter)
There’s a pocket of Wales where time seems frozen, where the air is heavy with the fragrance of moss and drizzle, and mist dances through the trees like ghostly tendrils.
This magical location is the Rheidol Valley in Ceredigion, a woodland so bewitching and mysterious it appears lifted straight from a storybook.
The Rheidol Valley ranks highly on keen adventurers’ bucket lists, particularly the Vale of Rheidol Railway trip hailed amongst the globe’s premier destinations, with tourism specialists at Ski Vertigo proclaiming: “It’s one of the most magical landscapes in Britain, a hidden gem where waterfalls sparkle, trees whisper, and steam trains drift through the mist like something from a dream.”
The Rheidol Valley extends eastwards from Aberystwyth, following the winding River Rheidol as it travels 19 miles from the Nant-y-Moch Reservoir toward the shoreline. The deeper you explore, the more peaceful it grows, with only the sounds of tumbling water, rustling leaves, and distant bird calls. In some areas, sunlight barely filters through the tree cover, bathing moss-draped rocks in an otherworldly emerald light. The air feels fresh and damp, and every step appears to echo softly, as if the forest is listening in.
Mystical wonder of the Rheidol Valley
The woodlands around Devil’s Bridge overflow with mystery and magic. Towering oak trees curve over the pathways, while slender streams cascade down steep hillsides. Hidden amongst the lush greenery, cascades spring forth unexpectedly, their mist shimmering in the sunlight like a dusting of silver.
If you stop and listen closely, you might hear more than just the rush of water – a faint whisper carried on the wind or the creak of an old bridge swaying in the fog.
The Vale of Rheidol Railway, a charming steam train that seems plucked from a different time, chugs through the valley. It meanders leisurely through the forest, puffing out white clouds that drift among the trees. Locals say its whistle can be heard long before it comes into sight, a soft, ghostly sound echoing across the hills.
This train has been running since the Edwardian era, taking passengers past Aberffrwd, Rheidol Falls, Rhiwfron, and finally ending at Devil’s Bridge, a journey that feels like stepping back in time
Upon arrival at Devil’s Bridge, the story becomes even more magical. Three bridges are stacked one on top of the other, each built over centuries.
According to local lore, the first was built by the Devil himself, as the locals believed the gorge was too deep to cross. A deal was struck – the soul of the first creature to cross would belong to him.
But, as the legend goes, the cunning locals tricked the Devil by sending a dog across first, saving their own souls. However, when the wind howls through the bridge at dusk, some say it sounds like a low growl.
From the summit of the bridge, visitors can marvel at the Devil’s Bridge Falls, where the Mynach Falls cascade almost 300 feet into the gorge beneath. The atmosphere is fresh and damp, with the occasional delicate rainbow spanning across the rushing water. Some guests claim that the mist creates silhouettes that look like human faces, disappearing the moment you glance away.
Across the region, countless hiking trails guide you deeper into the valley’s heart. Some routes are short and easy, while others become difficult and hazardous after wet weather, reports Wales Online. The tracks meander past hidden pools, small waterfalls, and ancient stone walls covered in climbing ivy.
In spring, wildflowers blanket the woodland floor; in autumn, the leaves turn to burnished copper, washing the whole valley in warm tones.
How to get there
Travel experts describe the Rheidol Valley as a place that appears alive with “a forest full of secrets, where every path leads deeper into its story”.
The specialists recommend travelling by steam train as it offers the best method to experience the valley while you glide through mist-covered hills and over ancient viaducts – like following a forgotten adventure.
For the best visit, the professionals suggest taking the train from Aberystwyth to Devil’s Bridge, exploring the forest trails, and admiring the waterfalls before heading back.
Early morning or evening hours prove most magical, when the light is soft and the woods feel almost enchanted. Whether you’re drawn to the Rheidol Valley for its scenic walks, cascading waterfalls, or enchanting folklore, this magical place will linger in your memory long after you’ve left. It’s more than just a forest; it’s a living fairy tale.
As Richard E Grant reveals he prefers to sightsee at night to avoid the crowds, travel expert Will Sarson shares the best tourist attractions to visit in these countries after dark
My husband and I stayed in a beautiful 500-year-old Venetian palazzo for just €100 for a double room. The exterior of Palazzo Abadessa, tucked away in the sleepy backstreets of the Cannaregio district, is low key enough, but the grandeur and opulence begin to hit your senses as you explore. First we strolled through the lush ornamental garden, then the huge entrance hall decorated with frescoes and Renaissance paintings going back to the golden age of Venice, lit by glittering Murano chandeliers. The reception area is furnished with an antique velvet armchair, perfect for sipping a prosecco or Venetian spritz. Back in the 16th century, the original owners provided Venice with two of its doges, and today the stone corridors and high-ceilinged rooms have a classy, noble air, as if the ghosts of Caravaggio or Tintoretto might appear any moment and begin painting. Breakfast of cappuccino and croissants in the courtyard served by the friendly owners was a delightful way to start the day. April
Profile
Readers’ tips: send a tip for a chance to win a £200 voucher for a Coolstays break
Show
Guardian Travel readers’ tips
Every week we ask our readers for recommendations from their travels. A selection of tips will be featured online and may appear in print. To enter the latest competition visit the readers’ tips homepage
–
An Italian cookery school in an old castle
Photograph: Peste 65/Getty Images
Castello di Montalero, east of Turin in the heart of the Monferrato region of Piemont, is a beautiful building with history going back to the 11th century, though much of the present structure was built on the old castle foundations around 1700. It has been lovingly restored by the family who provide a fantastic residential cookery school, plus interesting outings and adventures. A once-in-a-lifetime experience. Christine Mason
A beautifully restored manor in Romania
Photograph: Cristian Radu
Sitting above the Romanian village of Mâlâncrav in Transylvania, the 18th-century Apafi Manor is a beautifully restored manor house next to one of the region’s most exquisite Saxon fortified churches. At the end of a lush forested valley, the grand but comfortable interiors by the British designer David Mlinaric feature historic local art and furniture, making you feel as if you have stepped into a 19th-century historical novel. Enjoy candlelit dinners on the veranda made by a cook from the village, and while away afternoons in the magnificent library. It sleeps up to nine, and reasonable prices make for an affordable and magical retreat. Benjamin
A castle above the Danube in Germany
Photograph: Markus Keller/Getty Images
If you fancy going medieval, then this 13th-century castle perched on a cliff overlooking the Danube in Baden-Württemberg should satisfy. We arrived at Wildenstein Castle youth hostel via a punishing zigzag cycle up the near-vertical outcrop, having ridden from the grand old river’s source in the Black Forest. The whitewashed walls conceal a large courtyard with comfy rooms and a great tavern in a crypt. The panoramic setting provides brilliant views across the Upper Danube nature park and wonderful sunsets. It is reputedly haunted, and exploring the passages and alleyways for ghosts is great fun for all. The abundant breakfast had plenty of delicious pastries, fuel for the next leg of our cycle. Matt Lunt
Stay in a pineapple in Scotland
Photograph: The Landmark Trust
It is hard to explain the Pineapple. Stay to appreciate this 18th-century tribute to a fruit and the rise and fall of an estate. It is perched on the Dunmore Estate near Stirling, and was the location of our first Landmark Trust holiday. One wing contains two bedrooms and a bathroom, separated from the simple kitchen and comfortable living room by the Pineapple tower. It’s certainly quirky – walking across the lawn to the loo was a novelty for four nights. It’s dog-friendly and sleeps four, with historic reading and logbooks dating back to 1970s offering entertainment in the absence of TV and wifi. Berenice
First world war history in Belgium
Photograph: Dirk Debleu
In the city of Poperinge, one of the few Belgian towns that did not fall to the Germans in the first world war, Talbot House was transformed into a club to offer relief to British soldiers. The house has been very well preserved by knowledgeable volunteers, and the chapel in the attic is a very special place of remembrance. The rooms and breakfast are lovely and very much in the spirit of the original club. Zoe Leonard
Courtyard apartments in Seville
Photograph: Manuel Muñoz
Seville is steeped in historic hotels, but most were more than my budget. Corral del Conde was surprisingly affordable and near the city centre. It’s a 16th-century corral (although it has Mudéjar origins in the medieval period) – a traditional community of apartments around a courtyard, with shared ovens and laundry sinks – and it’s incredibly pretty. It is a particularly evocative place for any fans of Spanish golden age theatre, because stages would be built in these corrales and locals would watch performances from the wooden balconies. For contrast, it’s a short walk from the giant mushrooms of Las Setas, a very different (and more modern) structure made of wood. Sarah Collings
An old station in Staffordshire
Photograph: John Miller/The Landmark Trust
Our stay with children and older relatives at Alton station, a Landmark trust property in Staffordshire, was both exciting and relaxing. It has glorious Victorian features, including stunning Minton tiles, and one of the bedrooms was the ticket office. It is incredibly interesting for railway enthusiasts, and leisurely bike rides down the disused railway were enjoyed by all. Esme
Fishers’ cabins in Norway
Photograph: Calix/Alamy
Touring the Lofoten and Vesteralen islands of Norway, we stayed in several historic fishers’ cabins, but the best place was a little wooden house in Andenes. It is traditionally furnished in 19th-century style and forms part of a small private museum. Alma House is redolent of a time when life for fishing communities was isolated and dangerous, but time at home was precious. Like many holiday rentals in Norway, you may have to share with other holidaymakers, but that only adds to the unique experience. Noelle
Winning tip: Parador paradise in Spain
We travelled to the Extremadura city of Cáceres for the St George’s Day celebrations – a torchlit parade of dragons crafted by people all over the city, followed by the biggest dragon being set on fire. But the star of the visit was the Parador hotel – a combination of gothic, Renaissance and baroque architecture. Cáceres is famous for its unspoilt old town (it features in Game of Thrones) and it made all the difference to feel part of it in our own medieval palace. We slept under a classically Spanish gilded, beamed ceiling, and sat out on our balcony looking over the town, and couldn’t believe how lucky we were. Rosalind
The captain has explained the truth behind aeroplane mode and what happens if people ignore it
Maria Ortega and Robert Rowlands Deputy editor, Money and lifestyle hub
05:30, 14 Nov 2025
A pilot has explained why it is really important to leave your mobile phone on aeroplane mode throughout every flight – file image
A pilot has warned why it is essential to use a phone’s aeroplane mode on a flight – with ‘sudden’ issues possible at certain key moments. Savina Paül, an A330 pilot outlined the problems that arise when people ignore the warnings issued on planes over use of the mode.
The captain warned planes are essentially like big computers. Systems on modern aircraft like the Airbus A330 are highly computerised and sensitive to small electrical impulses or external interference, he said.
She says passengers should wait for a few minutes before turning on mobile phones after landing. And she said they should keep them in aeroplane mode throughout the flight – even if the journey is short.
“One phone is fine, but all of them at once isn’t,” she said. She added simply: “Listen to us when we ask you to switch your mobile phone to airplane mode”. She made the remarks while speaking on the Spanish podcast ‘Supersónicos Anónimos’.
She told listeners that using your phone’s ‘aeroplane mode’ is a real safety measure. In particular, she said the issue is not just around a single device being switched on, El Confidencial reports.
Instead, she said it is the total effect of large numbers of active mobile phones during a flight. And in particular, this is a problem during high-precision approaches, known in aviation as category 3 – or autoland.
She said: “One mobile phone switched on does nothing, but 300 mobile phones at once, especially during a high-precision approach, can cause interference.”
She told the pod that the interference directly affects the aircraft’s instruments. She spoke about incident while a plane was on the runway: “While taxiing, suddenly a fault warning ‘master caution’ appears and then disappears. Sometimes this is because people turn on their mobile phones as soon as they land.”
Content cannot be displayed without consent
She added: “The plane is basically a computer, and these things happen,” she said – and cautioned that even a small error can trigger momentary alerts in the control systems.
In an excerpt of the pod broadcast on TikTok, she was again asked if it was really necessary to have flight mode on. She said: “If travellers are listening to this, please don’t ignore us regarding airplane mode on phones. It may seem silly, but it’s not.”
She then added: “I’ll be honest with you. One mobile phone switched on does nothing, but 300 mobile phones at once, especially during a high-precision approach, a category 3, when you need everything to work perfectly, can certainly cause interference.
“It’s just that the interference is not by radio, which is what people believe. No, there is interference with the instruments.”
The destination is one of the smallest nations in Europe, but it’s a winter wonderland with Christmas markets and a UNESCO-listed capital city that is known for being easy to walk around
While many dream of visiting Munich or Vienna’s Christmas markets, one small European nation offers an enchanting festive experience without the crowds or hefty price tag. Luxembourg may be one of Europe’s tiniest nations, but it’s brimming with activities as the Christmas season approaches.
The compact Grand Duchy transforms into a magical winter wonderland, with the festive Wantermaart (Winter Market) taking over the UNESCO-listed capital. The city’s walkable layout means visitors can easily stroll between historic squares like Place d’Armes and Place de la Constitution.
Travel blog Together In Transit describes the snow-covered city as “a beautiful winter wonderland experience”, featuring gluhwein stalls to keep you cosy in the crisp December chill. But the biggest draw for budget-conscious Brits is that this delightful, welcoming destination became the world’s first country to provide completely free public transport nationwide.
The zero-fare system was launched in 2020 to cut carbon emissions and boost public transport use, covering all standard class bus, tram and train journeys within the country. This exceptional value is matched by its fascinating history, which can be readily discovered on foot, reports the Express.
The city boasts spectacular views from the Chemin de la Corniche – described by Luxembourg writer Batty Weber as the “most beautiful balcony in Europe”. Luxembourg’s scattered Christmas markets offer all the festive essentials, from fairground rides and ice skating to food and drink stalls.
The capital city undergoes a magical transformation for the annual Winterlights Festival, with the main markets operating from 21 November 2025, right up until New Year’s Day 2026. Luxembourg stands out as one of the few European Christmas market destinations that remain open beyond Christmas Day.
The main attractions are dotted across key squares: the Lëtzebuerger Chrëschtmaart is located at the traditional Place d’Armes, while the Wantermaart at Place de la Constitution houses the awe-inspiring 32-meter-high Ferris wheel, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the entire lit-up city.
Visitors can savour traditional local treats like Gromperekichelcher (potato pancakes) and Glühwäin (mulled wine) at all major market locations, including Place de Paris. The city also boasts numerous historical attractions worth visiting, with Vianden Castle standing as the top destination, recognized as one of Europe’s most impressive fortified strongholds.
Nestled in the country’s northern region, the castle has received glowing reviews from visitors and is ranked number one of 15 things to do in Vianden. One Tripadvisor reviewer wrote: “A real medieval jewel! Vianden Castle is superb, beautifully restored and overlooking the valley. The village, with its picturesque streets and museums, is definitely worth a visit. The surrounding nature is splendid, and the chairlift offers a unique view. A must-see visit to Luxembourg.”
Another added: “The Château de Vianden is without a doubt one of the most beautiful castles in Luxembourg and an absolute must for lovers of history, architecture and impressive views.”
For those who prioritise festive markets and seasonal atmosphere, December is ideal for visiting Luxembourg. However, if warm weather, hiking and outdoor activities are more important, late spring and summer months are best.
The Cies Islands, a short boat ride from the city of Vigo in northwest Spain, are part of the UNESCO-recognised Atlantic Islands National Park, a natural environment that makes it an exceptional spot for observing wildlife
Chloe Dobinson and Laura Zilincanova
21:37, 13 Nov 2025
A quick boat trip from the city of Vigo will take you to the Cíes Islands(Image: Getty)
If you’re fed up with crowded beaches, overpriced drinks, and the never-ending queues of Europe’s typical island hotspots, then northwest Spain could be just the ticket. Galicia is a region that often goes unnoticed by international tourists.
Unlike the sun-drenched Mediterranean coast, it’s famed for its verdant landscapes, rugged coastline, and mild climate rather than endless beaches and nightlife. Its relative anonymity is partly due to its remoteness and accessibility – it feels a world away compared to Majorca or Tenerife – but this has helped maintain its genuine charm.
Just a quick boat trip from the city of Vigo will take you to the Cíes Islands, a place that could easily be mistaken for the Caribbean. While Vigo is known for its foggy and damp climate, the Cíes Islands, an archipelago off the coast of Galicia, are a delightful surprise, reports the Express.
The islands are part of the UNESCO-recognised Atlantic Islands National Park, a natural habitat that makes it a prime spot for wildlife watching. Declared a Nature Reserve in 1980, its white sands, turquoise waters, and dramatic cliffs make the destination feel entirely unlike anything else on the continent.
The Cíes archipelago comprises three islands: Monte Agudo, O Faro and San Martiño.
The first two are linked by an extensive stretch of sand: Rodas Beach, amongst the jewels of the Cíes Islands. The Guardian declared this beach the world’s finest. Stretching over half a mile in length and 200 feet in width, it boasts pristine white sand, crystal-clear emerald waters, and untouched dune landscapes. Situated conveniently close to the harbour, it remains easily reachable and perfect for a day’s excursion.
Ferry transport provides the sole access to these islands, with visitor numbers strictly controlled throughout the summer period. This ensures you can wander along Rodas Beach feeling as though you’ve discovered a hidden haven, rather than battling crowds of tourists.
Towering pine woodlands, walking paths, and rugged clifftops provide an adventurous atmosphere, whilst the Atlantic seas offer the perfect cooling plunge following a morning’s hike. One visitor posted on Tripadvisor: “This is definitely a bucket list destination. A perfect little piece of unspoilt paradise with some of the best scenery and beaches I’ve ever seen.”
Another commented: “Arriving in the morning, we hiked to the lighthouse with spectacular views, then a picnic and drinking coffee at the campsite that served us remarkably, we continued to the Alto do Príncipe, ending up on the beach of Figueiras, a real paradise despite its cold waters, undoubtedly an island paradise.”
For those tired of the usual Mediterranean hotspots, the Cíes Islands provide a refreshing alternative: untouched natural splendour, serene beaches, and the unique opportunity to escape Europe’s typical holiday hustle and bustle.
I stood atop a lookout point in the heart of Los Angeles County watching the sunset paint downtown L.A. a deep orange.
I was amazed to be alone in the outdoors just before 5 p.m. in America’s second-largest city. I took in more of the panoramic view before me. I could see Mt. Baldy turning a hazy pink as the sun coated the rest of the San Gabriel Mountains in a scarlet hue. I spotted thick clouds moving in over the South Bay. It’d be foggy later.
I’d usually need to travel to Griffith Park or Debs Park for similar views, but that evening’s location was the lesser-known Elephant Hill Open Space, a rolling landscape in El Sereno that local activists hope becomes L.A.’s next great park. But that’s only if they can save it in time.
Mt. Baldy is visible in the distance from a hiking trail in Elephant Hill Open Space in El Sereno.
(Jaclyn Cosgrove / Los Angeles Times)
You are reading The Wild newsletter
Sign up to get expert tips on the best of Southern California’s beaches, trails, parks, deserts, forests and mountains in your inbox every Thursday
Elephant Hill Open Space is a 110-acre plot of undeveloped land in El Sereno that residents have advocated, for more than 20 years, to be developed into a public park like nearby Debs Park or Ascot Hills with hiking trails, benches and overlook points.
Their final challenge, though, if the entire 110 acres is to be saved from development, is persuading about 200 different land owners to sell their parcels of Elephant Hill to a public agency — and at fair market rate.
Newly installed steps near the Elephant Hill test plot lead hikers toward panoramic views of L.A. County.
(Jaclyn Cosgrove / Los Angeles Times)
About 25 acres are owned by government agencies. Mountains Recreation & Conservation Authority, a local government agency focused on protecting open spaces, manages 8.37 acres at Elephant Hill and is in the process of buying another 2.4 acres. The city of L.A. owns about 15 acres after buying around 20 acres in a 2009 settlement with a developer who wanted to build luxury homes on the hillsides. (The city later sold five acres to MRCA.)
In recent years, MRCA has received about $4.2 million, including $2 million last month from the Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy, to research and buy more land, build a 0.75-mile trail to bring in more hikers, and install gates and boulders to prevent illegal off-roading.
Sarah Kevorkian, deputy chief of wildfire resilience at MRCA, said her agency is required by law to buy land at fair market rate, making it hard to compete in a “cutthroat” market with private developers who can offer landowners more money.
“The number of individual landowners is an added layer of complexity, and I don’t think that exists in other places, not like this,” Kevorkian said.
A view looking east from Elephant Hill’s new hiking trail.
(Jaclyn Cosgrove / Los Angeles Times)
Still, she remains optimistic, regularly checking land sales websites to see whether any Elephant Hill owners have posted their properties. Community members are quick to call her if they see a “for sale” sign go up.
“I immediately will call,” Kevorkian said. “I called this one person, and they said, ‘Yeah, we have an offer, we’re going with it.’ … I said, ‘If anything changes, call me back.’ They didn’t, but I just had a feeling.”
The land was next to the hiking trail that MRCA was installing. It’d be such a perfect parcel to snag.
Kevorkian called the property owner back a few weeks later, and they told her the deal had fallen through. “It was such an awesome win,” she said.
Mt. Wilson is visible from the Elephant Hill Open Space in El Sereno.
(Jaclyn Cosgrove / Los Angeles Times)
And anyone who visits can easily see why.
I first visited Elephant Hill a few weeks ago with Elva Yañez and Hugo Garcia, co-founders of Save Elephant Hill. They started their efforts in late 2003 to try to fight off private developers. Both live within walking distance of the open space.
We started our hike on the western side of Elephant Hill, with an aim of seeing the beginnings of Elephant Hill’s first official hiking trail, which MRCA expects to complete next year with way-finding signage, boulders and more.
We headed up the steep terrain, quickly passing the latest disputed development — a truck garden that’s drawn the ire of Save Elephant Hill and other conservation groups for its owner’s choice to chop down protected native trees, as reported by L.A. Taco.
A tree canopy provides shade over the hiking trail in Elephant Hill Open Space in El Sereno.
(Jaclyn Cosgrove / Los Angeles Times)
We took the trail’s switchbacks and then paused to catch our breaths in the shade of hollyleaf cherry, black walnuts and other trees creating a dense canopy. There, the hills blocked the noise from the roads and city. It’d be the perfect place for a picnic table, bench or both.
Next, we walked down newly installed steps to reach the Elephant Hill test plot, a lush experimental restoration garden where volunteers have planted hundreds of native flowers and shrubs and close to 100 trees. The land looks grateful.
Bees buzzed around the sugar bush and coyote brush. Unlike other parts of the park that remain overwhelmed with invasive mustard, trees of heaven and castor bean, this area is thriving with drought-tolerant and, in some cases, fire-resistant native plants.
A native sunflower in the test plot garden, from left, a shaded path in Elephant Hill, and a white-crowned sparrow perched in the test plot garden.
(Jaclyn Cosgrove / Los Angeles Times)
Yañez said during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, she and Garcia realized they needed to expand their list of allies for Elephant Hill. “We’re not naturalists. We’re not traditional environmentalists. We’re not native plant people,” she said. “We realized at a certain point that we have to activate this space. We have to get people on it to start building that support.”
Joey Farewell, an estate planner who lives nearby and manages the test plot, said, with Yañez and MRCA’s blessing, the test plot volunteers installed the garden in fall 2022 and have seen it thrive, largely without watering outside of what’s needed to first establish new growth.
The test plot started as 3,000 square feet and has expanded to 10,000 square feet of native plant, said Jennifer Toy, director of nonprofit Test Plot, which has 16 experimental gardens around L.A. At Elephant Hill, volunteers have cleared about 20,000 square feet of invasive species, she said.
“It’s not a huge area, but each year we think about” what they can do next, Toy said. “It’s a work in progress.”
And it’s a powerful proof of concept of what Elephant Hill could look like with investment.
Farewell, who is the conservation co-chair of the L.A. and Santa Monica Mountains chapter of the California Native Plants Society, said most people don’t realize what a dynamic landscape Elephant Hill is, including its water features.
“My kids would play by the brook” after heavy rains, Farewell said. “You could reach your hand into one of the springs that fed the stream and feel the water bubbling out of the ground.”
The view of downtown L.A. from a high point at the Elephant Hill Open Space in El Sereno.
(Jaclyn Cosgrove / Los Angeles Times)
Yañez wants more local children to have similar experiences. Elephant Hill sits among a neighborhood plagued by environmental racism, she said. Green space isn’t readily available, but with the development of Elephant Hill into a park, it could be.
Yañez said she understands the need for more housing in L.A., but Elephant Hill has repeatedly proven an unsafe option. In the late 1980s, townhouses in a nearby development started falling into the ground, causing major structural damage. Around 2006, a developer was using a backhoe to build a fence around his property when the heavy machinery fell deep into a spring. Neighbors referred to it as a “sinkhole.”
“When you look at the big picture of climate change and lack of access to park space in communities like El Sereno, it’s kind of a no-brainer — and it’s very difficult to build here. In fact, it’s not safe,” Yañez said. “All the factors come together and make a pretty strong case on their own for conservation. Plus, I think the community deserves access to open space on these hillsides.”
3 things to do
Volunteers repair habitat in the Bolsa Chica Conservancy in Huntington Beach.
(Erika Moe / Amigos de Bolsa Chica)
1. Address messy nests in Huntington Beach Amigos de Bolsa Chica needs volunteers from 8:15 to 11:30 a.m. Saturday to restore nest habitat for the threatened western snowy plover and endangered California least tern. Participants will remove invasive and overgrown plants in an area of the reserve off-limits to the public. Register at amigosdebolsachica.org.
2. Craft s’mores ’round the campfire in Culver City The Nature Nexus Institute will host a fall harvest event from 1 to 3 p.m. Saturday at the Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook featuring a campfire and drum circle. Guests can also take guided nature strolls, listen to storytelling and make s’mores around a campfire. Register at docs.google.com.
3. Nurture native plants in the Hollywood Hills The Citizens for Los Angeles Wildlife needs volunteers from 9 to 11 a.m. Saturday for a habitat restoration project in the Hollywood Hills. Participants will weed and water young native wildflowers, trees and shrubs, and install humane protection from deer and gophers. Register at clawonline.org.
The must-read
A sign stands in the middle of the fire-ravaged remains of the ranch house at Will Rogers State Historic Park in Pacific Palisades. The park reopened Saturday.
(Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times)
Hikers rejoice! Will Rogers State Historic Park reopened Saturday after being closed for 10 months following the devastating Palisades fire in January. Times staff writer Hailey Branson-Potts reported that 4.2 miles of the park’s trails are now open while 4.8 miles remain closed. Unfortunately, the segment of the Backbone Trail — a 67-mile trek from Point Mugu State Park to Will Rogers — that runs through the park will remain closed because the fire destroyed the Chicken Ridge Bridge. The Rivas Canyon Trail and Rustic Canyon Trail will also remain closed. The looping trail to Inspiration Point will be partially open, although parks officials might sometimes close it for trail work.
I am glad, slowly but surely, we’re getting to return to some of our favorite places closed by fire.
Happy adventuring,
P.S.
It’s a bird, it’s a plane, it’s — no, it’s a bird! It appears that a bald eagle was spotted flying over the Audubon Center at Debs Park last Thursday. “Could it be?!” the Audobon Center posted on Instagram. The answer is yes, it really could have been! On the citizen science app iNaturalist, users have reported almost 1,000 bald eagle observations in L.A. County, including one over Debs Park in 2017 and others in nearby GlassellPark and Pasadena. Perhaps the Steve Miller Band was correct about our national bird’s flight pattern: “I want to fly like an eagle / To the sea.” May your spirit carry you through this week, friends!
For more insider tips on Southern California’s beaches, trails and parks, check out past editions of The Wild. And to view this newsletter in your browser, click here.
THE LARGEST ice rink in the UK is opening today after receiving an ‘epic’ upgrade.
Skate Bournemouth has returned for the festive season, with the popular attraction receiving some major modifications before it launched for the winter period.
Sign up for the Travel newsletter
Thank you!
Skate Bournemouth opened its doors this week to reveal its mammoth 70ft-long ice rinkCredit: skate_bournemouth / InstagramThe skating rink. which is almost the length of a Boeing 777, is the largest in the UKCredit: skate_bournemouth / Instagram
The updated rectangular rink measures up at 70 metres long – almost the same length as a Boeing 777, becoming the largest ice rink in the country.
The popular ice skating park, located in Bournemouth’s Lower Gardens, returned to business on Wednesday (November 12).
Drone images show the sheer length of the stunning ice rink, which appeared draped in white, after extensive upgrade works took place.
Located in Bournemouth city centre, the skating park will offer student nights, toddler time and sessions for more experienced skaters – as it did in previous years.
A spokesperson for Skate Bournemouth said: “Skaters and spectators alike are in for a treat, with a separate skate-hire marquee featuring its own toilets and queuing area, meaning gearing up is smooth and stress-free.”
The attraction also features a Moguls Alpine Bar, which offers a “stunning menu of festive cocktails, mulled drinks and hot chocolates”, according to their website.
Skate Bournemouth will remain open for customers until January 4, accommodating skaters through Christmas to the New Year.
Prices range between £13.50 for children and £16 for adults at the huge rink.
But while Bournemouth boasts the longest rink in the UK, punters closer to the capital looking for a similar experience benefit from a stunning ice rink that’s already opened its doors for winter.
Skate at Somerset House, in partnership with Virgin Atlantic, returned to London on Wednesday, taking over the venue’s iconic courtyard.
The rink returned as part of the venue’s 25th birthday – and is one of the capital’s standout attractions during the winter experiences.
The venue offers a range of tasty food, drinks and music from DJ’s as part of the full experience.
Virgin Atlantic, who are the organisers behind the stunning rink, are also operating exclusive sessions and a lounge-inspired Clubhouse with rink-side views
HSBC UK are also running a vintage pop-up store on-site called Shelter Boutique.
The shop will be selling a hand-picked selection of pre-loved items, with all proceeds going to Shelter charity, helping tackle homelessness during the festive period.
Entry to Skate at Somerset House ranges between £15 to £28.50 for adults, and £10 for children, plus a one-off transaction fee of £2.95.
Skate at Somerset House has also made a return. with the popular ice rink remaining in the capital until JanuaryCredit: Alamy Live News
WANT to snap up a holiday next year for less? TUI Black Friday sale has something for every budget.
Whether you’re looking to book some New Year winter sun or next summer’s break, there are great deals to be had.
Sign up for the Travel newsletter
Thank you!
Las Teresitas beach is walking distance from Santa Cruz, capital of Tenerife
With TUI, you can bag Black Friday discount codes for offers that cover departure dates from January 1, 2026 to October 31, 2027.
Simply bookmark the Black Friday sales page at tui.co.uk, browse the discount codes, apply them to the trip of your choice and save big.
The world is your oyster – but where to go?
Long haul or short?
It’s not too late to treat yourself to a winter holiday in the New Year – TUI’s Black Friday discount vouchers can be used for last-minute trips.
Tempted by the thought of some some sunshine? While we shiver at home, Florida is enjoying average temperatures of 25C – so hit the beach, tour Miami or visit Orlando’s theme parks.
Or soak up the sun in Mexico, explore Mayan ruins, laze on powder-sand beaches and stay in an incredible seafront hotel.
The Canaries are always a hit, winter or summer, with Tenerife and Gran Canaria ever-reliable choices.
Agaete – in the north of Gran Canaria – has some great beaches and natural pools, plus a quaint old town with a walled botanical garden.
Corfu is in the Ionian Sea, known for its turquoise waters
Greece is the word
How about one of the Greek islands? Corfu is a lush picture of cypress trees, olive groves and sun-bleached towns.
Make sure to fit in a trip to Paradise Beach, reachable only by boat.
Elsewhere, Rhodes has a breathtaking mix of dazzling beaches and ancient ruins.
Take the ferry to tiny island of Symi, which has a beautiful harbour and a striking 15th-century monastery on the waterfront.
Spain’s Balearics always deliver. Cala Galdana – a small, colourful resort set in a lovely cove in southern Menorca – has lots to keep the family entertained.
And of course Ibiza’s party scene, bohemian vibes and gorgeous sand are rightly legendary.
The Caribbean shores of Riviera Maya on Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula
How to shop the deals
Book your next break now with the TUI Black Friday discount code BLKFRI, available to use when you open a myTUI account online.
With a myTUI account you can save up to £300* per booking on a package – including thousands of family-friendly getaways – from January 2026 to October 2027.
Once you’re set up, having your details stored online allows you to book that break swiftly before the deal is snapped up and disappears.
And if you already have dates and destinations in mind, that helps to narrow your search for the best deals.
Sign up for weekly emails and you’ll receive discounts direct to your inbox.
When you shop the TUI Black Friday sale, you’ll find unbeatable bargains… so what are you waiting for?
*Save £300 per booking when you spend £3,500 with code BLKFRI; save £300per booking including children aged 2 and over on TUI package holidays. Offer excludes city destinations operated on third-party flights. Discount is valid on holidays departing between January 1, 2026 and October 31, 2027. Minimum spend is £3,500. Room upgrades and flight extras on TUI flying will count towards your minimum spend. However, other extras such as insurance andTUI Care Foundation donations do not count towards your minimum spend.Saving is based on a minimum of 2 adults sharing. Offer is valid until midnight on December 2, 2025 when logged into a myTUI account. Offer does not apply to accommodation only, flight only, cruise and ski bookings. Offer is valid for new bookings only when logged into a myTUI account and can only be redeemed once. Enter code BLKFRI in upper case when on the holiday payment page of the TUI website. See tui.co.uk or the relevant brochure for booking terms and conditions. Offer is subject to availability and may be amended or withdrawn at any time without notice. This promotional code is non-transferable and not valid in conjunction with any other discount code.
So it’s no surprise that the town is steeped in history – Samuel even says you can “travel back in time” while strolling through.
He also calls it one of the “most beautiful places in Spain” as it has white-washed buildings with terracotta roof tiles.
Gran Tarajal is a main town with pitch black sand where locals live a slow lifestyle and there aren’t many tourists around.
There’s also a marina and lots of local restaurants where you’ll find classic dishes.
Most read in Beach holidays
Beaches
You’re pretty spoiled for choice with beaches thanks to Fuerteventura being an island, of course.
Majanicho is a small, off-the-beaten-track village known for surfing, a calm lagoon, and it even has a unique beach made of coral – often called “Popcorn Beach”.
Las Playitas is a postcard perfect village on the islandCredit: AlamyCorralejo is a lively resort but also has some incredible and sometimes quiet beachesCredit: Alamy Stock Photo
Samuel called Majanicho an “untouched coastal area” that’s a “surfer’s paradise” thanks to its shape.
When it comes to beach day fun, look no further than Corralejo .
The lively resort has plenty of beaches including the Grandes Playas which has golden sands and bright blue waters.
Villages
There are villages scattered throughout the island, but these are the ones Samuel said needs to be on your hit list.
Ajuy on the west coast is a remote fishing village where pirates used to hide – and there are plenty of secret spots to explore like the volcanic caves.
Plus, you’ll be able to see some fantastic sunsets here.
Also on the west coast of the island is Los Molinos, a secluded village with sea caves and as Samuel points out – the only place where you can see ducks.
Tiscamanita is a farming village where Samuel revealed they make the best matured goat cheese of the island.
It’s also home to a traditional Canarian windmill.
The island of Isla de Lobos is just north of Fuerteventura with crystal clear waterCredit: AlamyTraditional windmills are still scattered about the island – like this one in LajaresCredit: Alamy Stock Photo
Exploring
There’s plenty of exploring to be done around the island too, and Samuel said that Lajares, a small inland town, is “as indie as it gets” with “plenty of artisan shops”.
The town that’s popular with surfers is known for having a chilled out vibe.
Tindaya is a sacred mountain on the island for the aboriginal people of the island.
It’s a site worth seeing but visitors can only drive by or walk around a small part of the mountain.
Punta de la Entallada is an active lighthouse on the island and from there you get some incredible views – it’s also the nearest point to mainland Africa.
Samuel also recommended Jandia which has white sand beaches and it has even been used in a few films like Star Wars and Wonder Woman.
He also added that Antigua is worth a visit for its historical windmill and Cheese Museum with a guided tasting.
Another is Isla de Lobos, an island to the north of Fuerteventura – a natural park only reachable by boat with an archaeological site and incredibly clear water.
HAVE you ever wandered through London and seen the towering dome of St Paul’s Cathedral and thought, I wonder what it is like to visit? We’ve done the hard work and broken down everything you need to know.
St Paul’s Cathedral is the UK’s most popular religious attraction with over two million visitors each year.
Sign up for the Travel newsletter
Thank you!
St Paul’s is the most visited religious attraction in the UKCredit: The Sun
It was designed by world-renowned architect Sir Christopher Wren and was completed in 1710, after the original cathedral was destroyed in the Great Fire of London.
Amazingly, the stunning landmark even survived the London Blitz during World War II.
And of course, it has a lot of royal connections including hosting the 1981 wedding of Prince Charles and Lady Diana Spencer.
Today, it remains a working church with daily services but the public can visit.
It costs £26 per adult (£28.60 with a donation) and £10 per child (£11 with a donation).
Concession and family tickets are also available.
The experience
Arriving at the cathedral, I was pleased to find no queue and with a speedy bag check I was inside within a couple of minutes.
And straight away, I was impressed.
The towering ceilings and sprawling cathedral floor were a beautiful sight, with stone arches, statues and ornate windows.
As soon as you enter, you pick up one of the guides which is essentially a small iPhone.
There are multiple videos, audio clips, pictures and activities to explore as you go through the cathedral.
This means you can take the entire visit at your own pace and in all, I spent around three hours there.
Realistically, I think two to three hours is enough, but you could definitely spend more time there.
What is there for adults?
History lovers will be in their element – the cathedral really is fascinating and holds so much more than religious history.
For example, when exploring the crypt you can see the graves of Admiral Lord Nelson and the Duke of Wellington.
The cathedral itself is also an architectural marvel, designed by the famous architect Christopher Wren.
Throughout there are tons of information boards and the interactive multi-media guide even goes behind the scenes and talks to some of the cathedral’s key figures.
Inside there are lots of information boardsCredit: The Sun
What is there for kids?
Despite what you might think, St Paul’s can also be fascinating for kids thanks to a handy guided experience on the multi-media guide with a phoenix.
The phoenix flies through the cathedral and shares interesting facts about the landmark that are appropriate for children.
It is definitely one of the better children’s guides I have seen, as it makes learning about history of the cathedral both fun and accessible.
There are a number of videos that bring past historical figures to life too, such as the artist William Turner who is buried in the crypt.
Of course though, as a historical and religious attraction, younger kids might become bored and also struggle with the amount of stairs up to the galleries.
For kids, the interactive multi-media guide has a number of games and activitiesCredit: The Sun
Is it accessible?
The North Transept features an accessible entrance with a ramp, which the cathedral recommends for wheelchair users or those that require step-free access.
When you enter from here, you enter straight onto the cathedral floor.
There are a number of wheelchairs available at the cathedral on request and there is a lift between the cathedral floor and crypt.
The only area wheelchair users or those who cannot use steps cannot access are the galleries, including the Whispering Gallery.
Even if you are able to use steps the Whispering Gallery is 257 steps, Stone Gallery is then an additional 119 steps and the Golden Gallery is an additional 152 – which is a lot.
It can be a bit of a struggle as many of the steps are up narrow staircases without handrails.
The galleries are up a lot of steps, which isn’t acceptable to everyoneCredit: The Sun
For the elderly or small children, I would say miss this part of the cathedral.
Guide dogs, hearing dogs and assistance dogs are all allowed in the cathedral.
For visually impaired visitors, there are audio description guides and free guided ‘touch tours’ available.
For those who are hard of hearing or deaf, the cathedral has a hearing loop system that covers the cathedral floor, OBE chapel and the crypt.
The multimedia guide also features a British Sign Language tour with subtitles.
I do believe the cathedral has done everything it can do to accommodate those with accessibility needs, however there are some things that are not accessible.
Any add ons?
The multimedia guide has everything you need to learn about the cathedral and its different features and it is free with entry.
But there are a few other tours available.
For example, you could head on a highlights tour for half an hour, which is free for ticketholders.
Or a cathedral floor and crypt tour which is free and lasts an hour to an hour-and-a-half.
For an additional cost, visitors can head on the ‘Triforium Tour’, which includes the library, the Trophy Room and Great Model and a view down from the top of the Geometric Staircase.
However, the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility issues.
It costs £15 per person and lasts an hour.
There is also a tour to behind the scenes area for £15Credit: The Sun
Is there a shop and cafe?
We all love a cosy cafe and St Paul’s has a great one.
The Crypt Cafe is located beneath the cathedral floor and recently reopened to the public in March 2025.
Inside it is calm and cosy, with a range of hot and cold drinks, sandwiches and salads, and cakes.
One thing that I particularly liked is that you can leave the cathedral experience to head into the cafe, but you can then re-enter the cathedral if you show your ticket – super handy for a quick caffeine hit.
Prices aren’t too bad either.
You could get a deli lunch, which includes a main and two seasonal salads for £13.95.
Wraps and baguettes cost from £6.95 and soup of the day for £6.75.
Coffee ranges from around £4 to £6, as does cake.
Heading away from the cafe, you will then find the shop.
We all love a good landmark or museum gift shop and St Paul’s’ is great.
The book and gift section is extensive, and I was pleasantly surprised by the prices.
A personal favourite of mine was the St Paul’s Sausage Dog teddy costing £22, inspired by Christopher Wren’s famous quote: “The secret of architectural excellence is to translate the proportions of a dachshund into bricks, mortar and marble”.
The cathedral also has a large gift shop and cafeCredit: The Sun
What else is there to do in the area?
Away from the hustle and bustle of Oxford Street and Covent Garden, St Paul’s still has a lot of places to explore nearby.
Right next to the cathedral, you could head to the F1 Arcade London or Fairgame – the ultimate adult’s playground, with retro fairground games.
There are a tonne of fast food spots around too including McDonalds, Five Guys and Wagamama.
Just a five minute walk from the cathedral you will find Ye Olde Watling, one of the best pubs in the area with 4.6 stars out of five on Google.
The pub dates back to the 17th century and features a good comfort menu with a range of ales.
The closest bus stop to the cathedral is Stop SH, just outside the cathedral, linking to many different areas of the capital.
The closest tube station to the cathedral is St. Paul’s Underground Station itself, with the Central Line, which is just a three minute walk away.
Final verdict
As someone who has lived in London now for five years and not visited St Paul’s, I wish I went sooner.
The history of the cathedral is truly fascinating for both Londoners and tourists alike.
It definitely is one to visit and for the entrance fee, I think you get a lot for your money.
Especially at the highest gallery where you can see skyline views of London.
Accessibility wise, even without the galleries, I think it is still worth visiting and for kids, if they are bit older or teenagers, they will be fascinated by the stunning artworks, ceilings and winding passages to the galleries.
For younger kids, the interactive guide will definitely keep them occupied whilst parent perhaps look at the more detailed information boards.
Next time you’re driving the Grapevine and nearing the forest of oil rigs on the outskirts of Bakersfield, look for a six-story guitar.
That would be the Hard Rock Casino Tejon, whose opening on Thursday brings industrial-strength Indian gaming — and some Hollywood pizzazz — to a territory better known for cowboy hats, farmland and petroleum extraction.
The Tejon casino stands in the rural community of Mettler, near the convergence of Interstate 5 and State Route 99 — “a stone’s throw away” from Los Angeles, suggested Hard Rock Casino Tejon President Chris Kelley.
In effect, the casino is a $600-million bet by leaders of Hard Rock International and the Tejon Indian Tribe that they can grab a central role among the many Indian casinos in Southern California.
The property is the first full-scale gaming and entertainment destination in Kern County.
(Makenzie Beeney Photography for Hard Rock International)
A wind sculpture at the entrance of the casino.
(Cristian Costea for Hard Rock International)
The draw? Most notably, 150,000 square feet of gaming space — including 58 table games and more than 2,000 slot machines — putting it among the largest casinos in Southern California, on par with many along the Strip in Las Vegas.
And, of course, because this is a Hard Rock venture, there are pop music artifacts on display. Among them: the blue hooded velvet mini dress Sabrina Carpenter wore in her “Please Please Please” music video, signed guitars from Sheryl Crow and Bonnie Raitt, Beck’s tambourine and Natalie Cole’s orange high heels.
The casino also includes four restaurants serving Asian street food, tacos, pizza and American comfort food (especially Nashville hot chicken) — and a bonus feature. At select hours, Kelley said, staff will put up a divider to create Deep Cut, a fancier “speakeasy restaurant” that will emphasize steak and seafood.
“This is something no other Hard Rock Cafe has … a restaurant within a restaurant,” said Kelley, leading a tour in the days before opening.
Live-action table games include blackjack, craps, roulette and baccarat.
(Makenzie Beeney Photography for Hard Rock International)
Plans for the second phase of the project will include a 400-room hotel and spa on-site, along with a 2,800-seat Hard Rock Live venue designed to host concerts, sporting events and ultimately make Kern County a premier destination for travelers and fans. Officials declined to share a timeline for this next installment.
Though its global empire began with a London cafe in 1971, Hard Rock International has been owned by the Seminole Tribe of Florida since 2007. The company’s native ownership was “a major influence” on the Tejon tribe’s decision to team up, said Tejon Tribal Chairman Octavio Escobedo III. Hard Rock Casino Tejon is owned by the Tejon Indian Tribe and is managed by Hard Rock International.
For the Tejon tribe and its 1,523 enrolled members, the casino amounts to a new chapter in a saga full of challenges. In the 1850s, the Tejon were included in the creation of California’s first Indian reservation — which was then closed by federal officials in the 1860s. More than a century later, in 1979, the tribe was omitted from a U.S. Bureau of Indian Affairs list of formally recognized tribes — an apparent mistake that took decades to correct.
When the Tejon did win federal recognition in late 2011, gaming plans materialized quickly. By late 2016, the tribe had set in motion the acquisition of the casino site.
The restaurant Deep Cut is billed as an “elevated steakhouse experience.”
(Makenzie Beeney Photography for Hard Rock International)
For the tribe, Escobedo said, the long-term picture likely includes developing a residential community — which the Tejon haven’t had for more than a century — as the tribe aims for “financial sovereignty.” Though he declined to specify the amount of money that would require, he did say “it’s going to take a tremendous amount of financial discipline to achieve that.”
So far, things feel promising. Escobedo said 52 tribal members have signed on to work at casino jobs and “I’d love to see that number double over the next year or so.”
Long before the Seminoles bought control of Hard Rock International, the tribe pioneered Indian gaming in the U.S., beginning with a bingo hall in Hollywood, Fla., in 1979. Through further investment and legal victories rooted in tribal sovereignty, tribes in 29 states across the U.S. have built hundreds of gaming operations, which together gross more than $40 billion yearly.
Beyond its possibilities for the Tejon tribe, the arrival of the casino means about 1,100 new jobs for greater Bakersfield, which lost a beloved entertainment venue in August when Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace closed after 29 years.
Owens, who died in 2006, was a longtime resident of Bakersfield and proponent of the gritty “Bakersfield sound” in country music. Besides artifacts from pop music, rock ’n’ roll and Tejon cultural history, Kelley said, “We are going to have some Buck Owens memorabilia. It just wouldn’t be right not to.”
Jasmine Harman and her family are starring in Renovation in the SunCredit: Channel 4They documented their journey in doing up their villa on the Costa del SolCredit: Channel 4
Talking to Sun Travel, Jasmine has revealed what her new life in Spain is like, and the renovation mishaps she wishes she knew sooner.
Having been advice on property since 2004., it was in October 2023that Jasmine and her family were relocated from the UK to Spain, buying a run-down villa to transform it into their dream home.
It took around one year to transform the casa, and for anyone who wants to do the same, Jasmine has some words of warning.
Jasmine said: “It’s not for the faint hearted. If anyone was considering taking on a renovation project, I’d say be prepared.
“It’s going to be harder and more expensive than you think. There will be things that will come up that you weren’t expecting and you’ll need to leave yourself a financial and time buffer.
“We had rough figures that we were trying to stick to, but I reckon we ended up going over by around 50 per cent.”
Another huge challenge that Jasmine warned people against is living in the house whilst undergoing a renovation – especially during demolition.
Jasmine along with her husband, Jon, and their two children Joy and Albion, transformed the villa which wasn’t without its setbacks – including serious health scares.
Most read in Beach holidays
The work however started long before the actual renovation when Jasmine and Jon had to choose exactly where to live.
For the family, Jasmine revealed that moving abroad to the Costa del Sol was also the only logical option.
The family now spend their evening on the beachCredit: Channel 4And they can go skiing in the Sierra Nevada mountainsCredit: Alamy
She explained: “The Costa del Sol was a practical decision because we filmA Place in the Sun here all year round.
“There would be no point in me moving abroad somewhere to be with my family more, which was the whole idea, and say we moved to Italy.
“When deciding whereabouts on the Costa del Sol, we chose the western side of Malaga. Then Estepona we chose mostly for the schools – I found one I thought my kids would be happy in.”
Now she and her family have been living in Estepona for some time and have really settled in.
Jasmine shared: “I love Estepona because of the vibe in the town. Where we are, the beaches are quiet all year round. It’s a lovely Spanish town – very authentic.
“Although there’s quite a big international community here, it still maintains its Spanish feel.”
As for what she loves most about her move to Spain, like most Brits would find, it’s the good weather.
In the summer season, Estepona has highs of 28C and even during the winter it can still be as mild as 17C.
Estepona Old Town has white-washed buildings and feels ‘authentically Spanish’Credit: AlamyA Place in the Sun Presenter Jasmine Harman has undertaken a huge renovation projectCredit: Channel 4
Jasmine told us: “I know it’s a cliche, but the weather is so much better and more predictable and reliable.
“I had never really understood the pull of why people want to live by the sea, but I get it now. I love being this close to the sea, the mountains, and being able to see the horizon and that big, beautiful blue sky.”
Thanks to her new home being so close to the sea that they can see it from their home, Jasmine makes the most of it by taking regular dips in the ocean.
She and her children sometimes walk across the beach after school.
There are also plenty of spots for day trips from Tarifa where you can spot dolphins and whales, to Malaga City.
It’s not all sun and sand though; Jasmine is also very close to the Sierra Nevada mountains in the Granada province.
Jasmine said: “For the last two years that we’ve lived here, we’ve driven to Sierra Nevada, which is a few hours away, to go for a little skiing weekend.
“We don’t have to fly there, we just chuck everything in the car.”
“As a result of these high Govt taxes/fees (the highest in Europe), and Lufthansa’s high-fare monopoly, German citizens/visitors now pay the highest air fares in Europe.”
Dortmund, Dresden, and Leipzig airports are to stay closed overwinter.
Ryanair has already axed flights across Spain and GermanyCredit: Alamy
Manchester Airport has defended itself after data revealed that it had the most delayed flights among major airports in the UK during the first half of 2025, with less than three-quarters of flights departing on time
Manchester Airport was ranked as the worst for flight delays across major UK airports(Image: Getty Images)
Manchester Airport has defended itself, hitting back with a strong statement after it emerged that the travel hub was ranked as the worst major UK airport for flight delays so far this year.
A study of Civil Aviation Authority data compiled by AirAdvisor found that just 71.5 per cent of flights at the airport left on schedule during the first six months of 2025. The figure falls considerably short of the 77 per cent national average.
Manchester Airport, the biggest UK airport outside of London, has dismissed the data as “misleading to passengers”, arguing that numerous factors contribute to flight delays that are beyond the airport’s control. These include issues such as extreme weather, cabin crew shortages, inbound flight delays and air traffic control staffing.
A Manchester Airport spokesperson said: “The punctuality of flights can be affected by a number of factors, most of which are outside of an airport’s control. These include inclement weather, airline crew shortages, delays to inbound flights, and even things like continental air traffic control issues including capacity restrictions and industrial action.
“As such, it is inherently misleading to passengers to imply a link between airports and delays – although periodically we do see companies doing this in order to promote themselves and sell particular products or services. In reality, passengers can feel assured that the vast majority of flights that leave Manchester Airport do so on time.”
In turn, the airport’s size and extensive route network can impact the figures for delayed flights, its spokesperson claimed. As Britain’s largest airport outside of London, Manchester serves more than 200 destinations worldwide, with many long-haul routes originating from destinations such as the Middle East and Asia.
These long-haul flights will depart from their home countries, fly into Manchester and then return. This means that if any delays occur at their point of origin, it creates a domino effect on Manchester’s timetable, which then appears in the CAA statistics.
Flight delays are further compounded by air traffic control staffing shortages across Europe, alongside airspace restrictions in Russia, the Middle East and Pakistan – all factors that are beyond the airport’s control, according to its spokesperson.
However, it’s not all bad news, as the statistics reveal progress compared to last year, when only 69.5 percent of Manchester Airport flights departed on time.
Following closely behind Manchester Airport in the charts is Birmingham International, with 72.5 per cent of flights leaving on time, while Stansted and Bournemouth Airports ranked a joint third with 73.5 per cent. The CAA, which gathers punctuality data from 25 UK airports, defines a flight as ‘on time’ if it departs from or arrives at the gate within 15 minutes of its scheduled time.
The top 10 worst major airports for delays in 2025, according to AirAdvisor, are as follows:
Manchester – 71.5 per cent of flights were on time
These campsites have outdoor pools and winter highs of 20CCredit: Caravan and Motorhome ClubTuriscampo in Portugal has lots of outdoor pools and plenty of entertainmentCredit: Caravan and Motorhome Club
Here are some of the very best which are just a few hours from the UK.
Turiscampo, Portugal
You’ll find Turiscampo at the very bottom of the Algarve in the city of Lagos.
If you fancy visiting in November, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by how warm it is still with highs of 18C.
What will draw most visitors in is the enormous swimmingpool lined with sun loungers.
If you love the beach, then this campsite is ideal as it’s seconds away from the coast.
With highs of 19C in November, you’ll still be able to enjoy frolicking on the sands and splashing about in the water.
There’s a pretty terrace restaurant with views over the Med as well as a huge slide and a shallow splash park for kids.
There’s also an outdoor and inside play area, teen club, games room as well as a sports area with a basketball hoop.
On the front line of the Costa Daurada and close to the Ebro Valley, just fifteen minutes from Port Aventura.
Alannia Els Prats has an entertainment team that puts on performances for families.
Nearby is the Botanical Garden, Gaudi Centre, Port Aventura Theme Park and Aquopolis Costa Daurada Aquatic Water Park.
Pitches vary from serviced to large, premium and sea view with prices starting from £23.94pn.
Los Escullos campsite is surrounded by a huge National ParkCredit: Caravan and Motorhome ClubYou can still dine outside as it’s still 20C in NovemberCredit: Caravan and Motorhome Club
Los Escullos, Spain
If you want a break surrounded by nature then Los Escullos is for you as it’s found tucked away in the Cabo de Gata Natural Park.
In the low season it’s quiet so it’s also a great spot if you fancy a less frantic atmosphere.
Activities range from the multi-sports court to the entertainment program, and there’s an outdoor pool surrounded by loungers and cosy cabanas.
There’s a focus on wellbeing so make sure to explore the gym, sauna, Jacuzzi and massage treatments.
And if you fancy taking a stroll, there are plenty of trails that run through the National Park.
When it comes to meals, the Oasis Restaurant overlooks the pool and offers guests the opportunity to try traditional Spanish cuisine or check out the pizzeria menu.
The site is around a 40-minute drive from Almería too if you want to explore the city.
Los Escullos offers electric hook-up pitches from £22.53pn.
Costa do Vizir caravan site has an outdoor pool and is 450m from the beachCredit: Caravan and Motorhome ClubYou get beach access and it’s less than an hour into the city of LisbonCredit: Caravan and Motorhome Club
Costa do Vizir, Portugal
This campsite is on the western coast of Portugal where temperatures reach highs of 18C in November.
Called the Costa do Vizir, it’s ideal for anyone seeking a peaceful camping break by the coast.
The campsite is just 450m from Praia Grande beach, a popular watersports location.
On-site is a fine dining restaurant, and on the beach is the second restaurant which makes for great sunset views.
There’s an outdoor pool and children’s play area.
The country’s capital, Lisbon, is one hour and 30 minutes drive away where you can hop on a tram and eat a tasty Pastel de Nata.
Also nearby is Porto Covo, Pessegueiro’s Island, the Natural Reserve of Costa Vicentiva, Zambujeira and the town of Odemira.
It has electric hook-up and serviced pitches from £24.66pn.
A MUSEUM based in south-east London that is loved by families will be getting even more attractions next year.
The Horniman Museum and Gardens in Forest Hill – named London‘s best family attraction in 2024 by Muddy Stilettos – will open a new play park next year.
Sign up for the Travel newsletter
Thank you!
The Horniman Museum and Gardens is getting a major upgradeCredit: Feilden Fowles/ J L GibbonsOpening next year, there will be a new nature-themed play areaCredit: Feilden Fowles
Dubbed the ‘Nature + Love’ project, the park is one of several new experiences launching as part of the museum’s 125th anniversary celebrations.
It will be free to visitors and feature a cast of animated animals for visitors to meet and interact with.
The trail will also include a number of challenges and mini games for visitors to play.
In addition, The Horniman’s Nature Trail will offer step-free access for the first time.
The Gardens Nursery will be transformed as well and will include new glasshouses, a public boardwalk route and a workshop space – all free to visit as well.
Later in early 2027, the Horniman’s natural history gallery will reopen to the public having been fully refurbished.
Inside, visitors will be able to once again see many of the museum’s favourite items as well as new objects.
To mark its 125th birthday, the museum will also be hosting a number of events between June 27 and 29, 2026.
Michael Salter-Church MBE, Chair of the Horniman, said: “Opening in the Horniman’s 125th year, these new features in the Gardens will help visitors learn about the natural world and provide new welcoming spaces for everyone to enjoy for years to come.
“They embody the Horniman’s ethos and purpose and will help us celebrate our birthday!”
Gordon Seabright, chief executive at the Horniman, said: “We are delighted to reveal a first glimpse of what’s to come at the Horniman as part of our Nature + Love project.
“The Gardens are a beloved and integral part of the Horniman, and we hope the new attractions opening in 2026 will provide new and familiar visitors with fun and enriching encounters with the precious natural world we all share.”
Most of the Horniman is free to visit, including the library, animal walk, World Gallery and gardens.
And according to The Guardian, the destination “feels as if it was created for kids”.
And there will also be an augmented reality trail with animated charactersCredit: Andrew Lee
There is also an aquarium that visitors can go to, though this is ticketed costing £6.50 per adult and £3.25 per child.
Inside, visitors can explore 15 exhibits showcasing different water environments from around the world, such as pond life and coral reefs.
There is also a butterfly house, which is also ticketed, costing £9.75 per adult and £6.50 per child.
The tropical indoor garden features free-flying butterflies of different colours and sizes.
