holidays

IF you’re planning a trip to the Cotswolds, one of the most popular areas is the ‘Golden Triangle’.

Not to be confused with the Indian Golden Triangle (covering New Delhi, Agra and Jaipur) the Golden Triangle of the Cotswolds covers three of the most popular towns.

In between these towns are the famous fancy attractions such as Soho Farmhouse and Daylesford organic farm shop.

The first town is Chipping Norton, which is where a number of famous celebs live.

Nicknamed the Chipping Norton set, this includes the Beckhams, Jeremy Clarkson and Kate Moss.

This is also where you will find Clarkson’s farm Diddly Squat although pop into The Chequers pub and you might pop into David Beckham.

LIVE IT UP

‘Gateway to the Cotswolds’ home to first English king named top of place to live

ROYAL WELCOME

I stayed at the cosy Cotswolds hotel right by ‘Britain’s greatest palace’

Otherwise the town has the Chipping Norton lido, with two heated outdoor pools, as well as the National Trust owned Chastleton house.

The second location in the Cotswolds Golden Triangle is Stow-on-the-Wold.

Not only is it said to be one of the UK’s prettiest towns but it also claims to have the most photographed door.

A door of St Edward’s Church is rumoured to have inspired Lord of The Rings author J.R.R Tolkien’s book Doors Of Durin.

Stow-on-the-Wold is also home to The Porch House, one of the oldest inns in the country.

Dating back to 947AD, it is now a five star hotel.

And finally, the third place that makes up the Golden Triangle is Burford.

The small town’s main shops are found on one long hill, and they’re mainly independent sellers.

Try the Burford Sweet Shop for some sweet treats or Huffkins for some afternoon tea.

Otherwise the other celeb-heavy spot is Burford Garden Centre, often said to be one of the fancies garden centres in the UK.

Beyonce and Jay Z were rumoured to have been spotted there before.

While not in the Golden Triangle, the nearby town of Witney is home to one of the world’s best hotels called Estelle Manor.

Here’s another place called the “capital of the Cotswolds”.

And we spoke to a Cotswolds expert to get her top tips on how to visit on a budget.

Storm Therese has wreaked havoc across the Canary Islands, but a British expat is urging holidaymakers not to cancel as he claims big changes are coming at the start of April

Weather chaos has been wreaking havoc across Spain recently as Storm Therese sweeps through the Canary Islands, particularly Tenerife and La Palma – prompting numerous holidaymakers to abandon their plans after anticipating days basking in the sunshine.

The storm is currently bringing an unusual mix of torrential rain, 100 km/h (62 mph) winds, and significant snowfall at higher elevations. Authorities have issued a full-scale emergency in Tenerife, calling it one of the most serious storms to strike the archipelago in more than a decade. Despite this, it appears locals are beginning to see light at the end of the tunnel, as they’re encouraging people to maintain their holiday plans.

Taking to TikTok, one British expat named Mattie Barnett posted on the Tenerife First Excursions account, where he works, to reveal that a major shift is anticipated to arrive in Tenerife in April.

“Bollocks to the rain in Tenerife,” Mattie declared at the opening of the video, before briefly outlining that they’d been forced to endure days of rainfall in the Spanish holiday hotspot. But now, the sunshine had finally returned.

Gesturing towards the popular Playa del Camisón beach, he remarked: “There were people queuing at eight this morning to get the sun beds after half a day of rain.”

Mattie, who hails from Lincolnshire, went on to predict that the weather will likely remain sunny with pleasant temperatures of around 24 degrees through to the weekend. While early April may bring some overcast conditions, Mattie expressed optimism that the warm summery weather would return shortly afterwards.

It appears holidaymakers are placing their trust in Mattie’s forecast, as numerous people confirmed they’re pressing ahead with their travel plans.

“Coming next Wednesday. Need to be seeing blue skies, palm trees and everything in between,” one person commented. Another user stated: “I come on the 28th hopefully still good weather.”

Spain’s meteorological agency, AEMET, is forecasting that the rainfall will cease by Friday, 27 March, when sunshine will return, with temperatures hovering around 21 degrees for the remainder of the week and throughout Easter weekend, which is typical for this period.

Meanwhile, weather maps from WXCharts suggest that portions of the UK could be battered by heavy snowfall and temperatures plummeting to -9C between April 3 and April 5 – Easter weekend.

Weather charts indicate the snow zone stretching approximately 480 miles from the Scottish Highlands across northern England and the Midlands down towards areas of southern England.

At least 12 major cities could find themselves in the trajectory of the wintry conditions, which may trigger worries about travel chaos, school closures and hazardous driving conditions.

Air Passenger Duty (APD) is set to increase, with the tax usually passed on to passengers

British holidaymakers are being warned that flight prices are soon very likely to rise.

Among many other price hikes Brits are likely to encounter this April, Air Passenger Duty (APD) is poised to rise on flights departing from most parts of the UK from April 1. While APD is levied on airlines and aircraft operators, the costs are typically transferred to passengers at the point of booking. Charges vary depending on the distance travelled, with categories for domestic journeys as well as distances spanning 0 to 2,000 miles, 2,001 to 5,500 miles, and beyond 5,500 miles.

From April onwards, passengers taking an economy domestic flight within the UK will fork out an additional £1, bringing the cost to £8 per leg. Travellers will pay £2 extra for economy short-haul flights, with the rate climbing from £13 to £15. The levy on an economy medium-haul flight – covering 2,001 to 5,500 miles – will jump by £12 to £102, and by £12 – from £94 to £106 – on a long-haul journey.

The surcharge is considerably steeper for those travelling in premium class, escalating to £32 for short-haul, £244 for medium-haul, and £253 for long-haul. And for those opting for private jets, the hike will see APD rocket from £673 to £1,141.

The aforementioned rates exclude Northern Ireland and the Scottish Highlands and Islands. HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) clarifies that passengers on flights departing from airports in the Scottish Highlands and Islands region are exempt. This region encompasses:

• the Highland Region, Western Isles Islands Area, Orkney Islands Area, Shetland Islands Area, Argyll and Bute District, Arran, Great Cumbrae and Little Cumbrae.
• in the Moray District, it includes the parishes of Aberlour, Cabrach, Dallas, Dyke, Edinkillie, Forres, Inveravon, Kinloss, Kirkmichael, Knockando, Mortlach, Rafford and Rothes.

Passengers on flights from other parts of the UK to airports in this area are not exempt.

Direct long-haul flights leaving from Northern Ireland airports are exempt from APD. However, for domestic and short-haul flights departing Northern Ireland, the standard rates apply.

AN American airline’s plan for new couches in economy has been hailed as a “game changer.”

It means a far more comfortable flight for travelers seeking additional space to sleep.

United Airlines has announced a “relaxed row” to allow travelers to stretch out and have a better rest in economy class.

It involves transforming economy seats into a couch between two rows of seats.

The initiative will provide more comfortable international travel, the airline said yesterday.

“Customers will get a custom-fitted mattress pad, specially sized blankets, extra pillows and a stuffed plush for children to help create a cozy, tranquil environment,” the carrier explained.

CRUISE CONTROL

Royal Caribbean ‘cancels multiple scheduled cruises for 2027’

“Sounds like heaven to me,” said one thrilled customer.

United‘s relax row option is expected to be available from 2027.

Prices for the perk haven’t been released as yet.

“Customers traveling in United economy on long-haul flights deserve an option for more space and comfort, and this is one way we can deliver that for them,” said Andrew Nocella, executive VP.

Once available, United will be “the first North American airline to offer this kind of seating option and holds North American exclusivity on the design,” the carrier said.

The lie-down couch-style seating will eventually be rolled out across some 1,000 United planes by 2030.

More on United Airlines’ ‘relaxed row’ economy seats that transform into a couch

The option will be available for United customers traveling in the economy cabin on long-haul flights from 2027

A new, dedicated row of three seats will be outfitted with individually adjustable leg rests that fold up at a 90-degree angle.

The formation of the couch will create more room to sleep, stretch out or watch a movie.

Customers traveling in United relax row will receive additional amenities for their international flight.

This includes a custom-fitted mattress pad, a specially sized plush blanket, two additional pillows, as well as a plush toy and children’s travel kit for families.

The airline plans to offer it on more than 200 Boeing 787 and 777 widebody aircraft by 2030.

The seats will be located between United economy and premium plus, with up to 12 relax row sections on each plane.

They aren’t just available for families, as single travelers can also purchase the row, added United.

Source: United Airlines YouTube

Around nine to 12 couches will be available per aircraft.

The seats will have individually adjustable, flip-up leg rests.

These can then be angled to create more room to sleep, stretch out or watch a movie.

Their provision follows a similar option offered by Air New Zealand, which already offers a row of economy seats that convert into a lie-flat couch after takeoff.

Travelers commenting on United’s version have said that it will be worth the extra money.

“I’ve used the sky couch a bunch, and for traveling with young kids on long haul flights it’s an absolute game changer, worth every penny,” raved one flyer on Reddit yesterday.

“I love the skycouch on Air New Zealand and have used it multiple times between the US and Auckland,” wrote another traveler.

“Obviously you don’t get the bells and whistles of a first class seat, but the lie flat feature is the only thing that allows me to sleep on airplanes so for me it’s perfect.”

“Family and I use the Air NZ sky couch every time we travel between NZ/US,” shared one parent.

“It’s a game changer and we always choose Air NZ for that reason. Will start looking seriously at UAL now for our travels.”

FROM rooftop bars in South Africa to swimming pools in Marrakech and sundrenched terraces in Madrid – Sun Travel has found of the most affordable spots in the world’s best cities.

These 10 stays are the perfect places to rest your head while travelling around the world and they start from just £6 per night.

Cape Town, South Africa

Cape Town is the sixth best city in the world according to Time Out.

It has beautiful beaches and buzzy neighbourhoods, all set against the backdrop of the enormous Table Mountain.

When it comes to affordable places to stay check out Never@Home Green Point near Cape Town Stadium.

Along with private rooms and shared ones (including female-only), the hostel has a rooftop swimming pool, bar and chill-out lounge.

GET IT BOOKED

The ‘cheap luxury’ beach resorts under 4 hours from UK with breaks from £75pp

ALL IN

The CHEAPEST all-inclusive holidays in May half term – from £259pp and kids go free

A stay at Never@Home Green Point starts from £20 per night.

Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Amsterdam sits at number 34 in the list of the world’s best cities with pretty canals and gabled buildings.

There are plenty of attractions to explore as well as lots of busy bars and cafes to explore.

Anyone heading to the city should take a look at Generator Amsterdam which is inside a former university building overlooking Oosterpark.

One of its most impressive rooms is the bar inside a former lecture theatre.

A bed in one of the dorm rooms starts from £15 per night.

Edinburgh, United Kingdom

With its enormous hilltop castle, winding Royal Mile lined with plenty of shops and of course, pubs – Edinburgh has been announced as the third best city in the world.

It’s easy to walk about on foot and those brave enough should hike up to Arthur’s Seat.

When it comes to where to stay, consider the Castle Rock Hostel which is right next to Edinburgh Castle with easy access to the Old Town.

It has plenty of communal spaces and is a perfect budget stay for Edinburgh explorers – a night in one of the dorms at the Castle Rock Hostel starts from £15 per night.

Osaka, Japan

Travelling to Japan is on the rise, and while flights there are likely to be expensive, staying there doesn’t have to be.

Time Out, which named Osaka as the 39th best city in the world, also said it’s the “undisputed street food capital of Japan“.

When looking for a base to explore and fill your stomach with delicious takoyaki and yakitori, check out Hotel Toyo Hostel.

It’s basic but offers private rooms and is in the heart of the city with stays from £10 per night.

Kraków, Poland

Nicknamed the ‘jewel of the Baltics’, Kraków is said to be ‘fairytale-like’ with its colourful buildings and grand squares.

The pretty city is filled with pretty gardens, parks, and for beer fans, you can get a pint for as little as £1.50.

Any guest that checks into Greg & Tom Beer House Hostel gets free breakfast, dinner and there’s even free beer hour starting from 9pm.

The hostel is three-minutes from the Main Square and rooms start from £10 per night.

Marrakech, Morocco

The 24th world’s best city is Morocco’s vibrant Marrakech where you can haggle in busy souks, take in history at the medinas and stop in traditional tearooms.

To get into the spirit of Marrakech, all the while saving pennies, check into the Equity Point Marrakech.

It’s a unique spa hostel with a swimming pool and even offers hammam and massages to guests.

It also has a relaxing courtyard area and a rooftop bar with views across the city.

One visitor wrote in their review: “The Pool, rooftop terrace, and rooms are amazing. I wish we stayed longer and i would definitely recommend it to anyone who is visiting Marrakesh.”

A stay here starts from £8 per night.

Dublin, Ireland

Closer to home is vibrant Dublin a city known for its charm, old boozers, and friendly locals.

It’s said to be the city for some of the ‘best nights out in Europe‘ so if you want to see it for yourself, head to Generator Dublin.

The hostel that has a mix of private rooms and shared dorms is near the Jameson Distillery and the famous Temple Bar.

Rooms start from £25 per night.

Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon is hard to beat with the best of both worlds; coast and city.

Some of the most famous attractions include the Jerónimos Monastery, Belém Tower and with it being so hilly, taking the tram is a popular transport choice.

There are plenty of tascas too where you can dig into bacalhau (salted cod) and sip on sangria.

Goodmorning Solo Traveller Hostel is minutes from the city centre with plenty of communal spaces – some rooms even have balconies.

A stay here starts from £20 per night (a two-night minimum stay is required).

Buenos Aires, Argentina

There’s so much to do in the capital of Argentina from eating its world-class food to exploring the city’s vibrant culture.

Stewart Jackson, the Sun’s UK Digital Editor, who visited the city described it as a “brag-to-your-friends city break that is achingly cool and, once you’re there, incredibly cheap.”

Cocktails can be picked up from £4 and a 30-minute taxi journey can be as little as £3.

Affordability doesn’t stop with places to stay either – First Stop Buenos Aires Hostel is a budget-friendly hostel in the heart of the city.

The hostel offers a variation of rooms – some are private with adjoining ensuites.

A one night stay starts from £20 per night.

Madrid, Spain

Food, nightlife, culture – and just over two hours from the UK, Madrid should be top of your list for a city break.

Deputy Travel Editor Kara Godfrey even called it her “new favourite Spanish city.”

She said: “It feels more livable than other more tourist destinations, with an amazing food and drink scene.

“I mingled with the locals at Pez, where the only thing on the menu is huge sloppy pieces of tortilla chased with a cana (small beer) or tinto de verano for €2.50 (£2.16).”

Generator Madrid is just off of Gran Vía known as ‘Spanish Broadway’ and is a top pick thanks to its rooftop terrace with a bar, sunloungers and hot tubs.

The hostel holds social events too like yoga and DJ sessions and a night in one of the dorms starts from £6 per night.

For more on hotels – here are the very affordable hotels that are better than a five-star – by a holiday expert who’s visited more than 200.

Plus, the top travel mum influencer reveals her best cheap, family-friendly hotels.

THE first ever Bluey rollercoaster in the world is coming to the UK this week.

The new ride will be part of CBeebies Land at Alton Towers.

Called “Bluey the Ride: Here Come the Grannies!”, the ride will let both adults and kids hop in a carriage behind Bluey and Bingo.

It’s based on the episode where they dress up a grannies Janet and Rita to cause trouble.

The ride is made for younger riders, specifically for preschoolers.

Meet and greets with all the characters is also possible at the park, which includes Chilli, Bandit, Bluey and Bingo.

PRESS PAWS THEN PLAY

9 theme parks with something new in 2026 including multi-million lands

RIDE IN

Year’s free entry to 20 of UK’s top attractions cheaper than 1 chocolate bar a week

Future plans include more Bluey-themed hotel rooms too, with one already at the CBeebies Land Hotel.

Howard Ebison, Vice President of Alton Towers Resort said: “It’s exciting to be able to give eager fans and families an official first-look at our newest attraction Bluey the Ride: Here Come the Grannies! this spring at Alton Towers Resort. 

“This first glimpse of the ride shows what promises to be an exciting experience for the whole family – from little ones to grandparents – which bring the limitless energy of Bluey to life.” 

The new rollercoaster opens on March 28.

Sun writer, Hannah Ferrett, recently stayed in one of the Bluey rooms that are already open at Alton Towers.

She said: “The kids slept in Bluey and Bingo’s room, complete with bunk beds, the recognisable watermelon rug and the cartoon dogs’ pretty Himalayan rock salt night light — a nice touch for little ones.

“My partner Dan and I were in Bandit and Chilli’s room, which had a king size bed, TV and lots of pictures of Bluey and Bingo as puppies, much to the delight of our kids.”

“Even the bathroom had pictures of Bluey and her sister plastered across the walls.”

Also new at the park are the world-first Hey Duggee themed hotel rooms.

And here are some other new lands and rides coming to theme parks this year.

A new ranking compares international tourist numbers to locals in European cities – and one tops the list with a staggering 16,250 visitors for every 100 residents

Summer is on the horizon, and folks are starting to map out their holiday plans. Being based in the UK, we’re fortunate to have some of the world’s most stunning destinations within easy reach, with iconic cities just a short flight away.

However, many of these sought-after spots are now swamped with tourists – in fact, some now host more visitors than locals. DiscoverCars.com has compiled a new ranking that contrasts the number of international tourists with the local population in European cities. Five of the top holiday hotspots now boast more tourists than residents.

Topping the list is Dubrovnik in Croatia. This breathtaking historical city gained even more fame after serving as the backdrop for King’s Landing in the HBO series Game of Thrones.

Last year, this fortified city welcomed 6.5 million tourists – an astounding figure compared to its 40,000 inhabitants. That equates to 16,250 tourists for every 100 locals.

Taking second place is Reykjavik in Iceland, reports the Express. This Arctic city attracted even more tourists than Dubrovnik, with 7.4 million visitors compared to its 140,000 residents, resulting in 5,286 tourists per every 100 locals.

The city is renowned for its Blue Lagoon thermal baths and, of course, the opportunity to witness the Northern Lights illuminating the sky.

Securing third place is the floating city of Venice in Italy. Arguably one of the most famous cities globally, Venice played host to 10.6 million tourists last year.

Compared to its population of 250,000, that’s a whopping 4,240 international visitors per 100 residents. The city is a hit with tourists for its stunning architecture and the opportunity to glide along its canal streets by gondola.

Switzerland’s Geneva secured fourth place on the list, welcoming 7.8 million tourists in 2025. With a local population of 200,000, this equates to 3,900 visitors per 100 residents.

Renowned for its breathtaking views of the Alps, Geneva serves as an excellent base for day trips into the mountains and exploring the picturesque villages scattered throughout them.

Porto in Portugal claimed fifth place. The city attracted seven million international tourists in 2025, against its population of 250,000.

With 2,800 tourists for every 100 residents, it’s a highly sought-after destination. The narrow streets are adorned with beautiful architecture and striking Portuguese tiles, providing a perfect backdrop for photos.

With the river slicing through the city, you can discover both sides of the city in a day – just remember to bring your walking shoes.

The most tourist-dense cities worldwide

1. Dubrovnik, Croatia
2. Reykjavík, Iceland
3. Venice, Italy
4. Geneva, Switzerland
5. Porto, Portugal
6. Phuket, Thailand
7. Florence, Italy
8. Lisbon, Portugal
9. Edinburgh, United Kingdom
10. Athens, Greece

A POPULAR train station is getting a long-awaited, multi-million pound upgrade.

South Kensington is often called a ‘museum hub’ by being the gateway to three free attractions – the V&A, Science Museum and the Natural History Museum.

And the train station is about to get a huge makeover to make it much easier to travel to and from.

The new plans revealed by TFL will see the Grade II listed station be modernised.

This includes step free entrances, and a new eastbound platform for the Circle and District lines.

Being the busiest London Underground station with no accessible entrance, it is though as many as 500,000 journeys aren’t made to the station because of it.

Read more on train stations

DRINK IT IN

Inside one of UK’s most beautiful Wetherspoons that ‘feels like a luxury hotel’

RAIL REVAMP

UK train station with 7million passengers a year reopens TODAY

Around 30million passengers use the station every year, with the Circle, District and Piccadilly line stopping there.

Works are set to start later this year, and will be completed by 2029.

Bruno Carr, head of investment planning at TfL, said: “This transformational scheme will deliver much-needed step-free access to this station, while also making the area around it more pleasant for the millions who visit the nearby attractions and museums every year.”

Scott Anderson, head of property development at Places for London, said the upgrade would make the station the “jewel of the Tube network”.

Part of the station opened in 1868, with the Metropolitan line (no longer running there) and the District line.

The train station’s crowds are expected to continue, especially after the nearby Natural History Museum was named the most popular attraction in the UK.

Overtaking the British Museum, more than 7.1million people visited last year.

Millions a year also visit the V&A and Science Museum in South Kensington along with the Royal Albert Hall.

South Kensington is even home to a street nicknamed Little Paris.

Also nicknamed Frog Alley, Bute Street has French bookshops and bakeries throughout.

Another train station getting an upgrade is London Liverpool Street, the UK’s busiest railway station.

And a new £460million, “first of its kind” train station is opening in Birmingham as part of the HS2 plans.

A WETHERSPOONS pub in Britain’s busiest train station has been raved about as being one of the most beautiful in the UK.

Hamilton Hall is built in the former ballroom of the old Great Eastern Hotel at London Liverpool Street Station.

Named after Great Eastern Railway Company Lord Claud Hamilton, it became a Wetherspoons in 1991.

It was both the first central London Wetherspoons and the first in a train station.

While the hotel itself is still open – you can stay at what is now the Andaz London Liverpool Street for £260 a night – many of the original features remain in the pub.

This includes the ornate mouldings and frescos, as well as the celling decorations, and artwork.

Read more on Wetherspoons

ALE BE THERE

One of the UK’s most beautiful Wetherspoons is getting a major revamp

DRINK IT IN

UK’s most beautiful Wetherspoons looks ‘like period drama’ with Tudor ceilings

Previous punters have raved about the pub, saying it didn’t feel like a Wetherspoons.

One person wrote: “This is the most stunning building. Feels like a very expensive hotel with Wetherspoons prices!”

Another agreed: “Many of the original features have been kept and so you have the feel of dining in a rather grand place.”

Someone even said it felt like “drinking in a room in a country house manor,” while others said it was like “stepping back in time”.

The pub is popular both with tourists waiting for a train as well as football fans heading to games.

One traveller simply said: “A Wetherspoons like no other.”

There are a number of other stunning Wetherspoons around the UK which have converted former theatres, banks and cinemas.

Another beautiful Wetherspoons pub is found in Folkestone, with the Samuel Peto built in a former chapel.

There’s also the Art Picture House in Manchester, originally built in 1922 as a theatre and cinema.

The Knight’s Templar in London was called the most beautiful in the world, but has since sadly closed and been taken over by someone else.

Here are some of the other prettiest Wetherspoons in the UK.

NEW rules being rolled out across Europe are causing so much chaos at airports, that Brits are even missing their flights.

The new The Entry/Exit System (EES) has already been causing long wait times across Europe.

EES is replacing the need for a passport stamp by automatically checking when a person enters and exits an EU country.

Non-EU nationals – which includes Brits – are required to register their details like fingerprints, facial images and scan passports on their first visit to a Schengen area country.

But at Tenerife South, passengers say that only a handful of these EES machines are working with some rejecting fingerprints.

Passengers are even saying they’ve missed flights due to delays in getting through controls.

GET IT BOOKED

The ‘cheap luxury’ beach resorts under 4 hours from UK with breaks from £75pp

ALL IN

The CHEAPEST all-inclusive holidays in May half term – from £259pp and kids go free

Some Brits are warning to give as much as three hours before a flight just in case.

One Brit wrote on social media: “The key is to arrive three hours early so at least you are in the front of the queue when problems start.”

Another added: “Love Tenerife but HATE the airport.”

Police have reportedly been called in to the South Airport on several occasions to calm the crowds of angry passengers.

With bad weather and storms hitting the Canary Islands, those who miss flights are having to sleep inside the airport overnight before catching another plane home.

On one particular day, around 100 passengers were stranded there and many were unable to find overnight accommodation, so stayed in the terminal.

Passengers are blaming lack of staff and proper organisation for the chaos, with computers not working.

“Passport control is a disaster,” posted another Brit. “One person for thousands of travellers.”

Only 20 per cent of the biometric machines are working and officials admitted to the Spanish media that there were “computer failures.”

The chaos has been going on for months and tourism chiefs and hoteliers say the island’s reputation is being hit, compounded by the bad weather.

Since last week, the Canary Islands, including Tenerife, have also been struck with flash flooding and snow as a result of Storm Therese.

Even without bad weather, many airports have experienced delays caused by the new travel requirement of EES registration.

Due to their small size, airports on the Canary Islands have seen reports of long queues.

Travel Reporter Alice Penwill said she waited in line at Lanzarote Airport for three hours after landing – just to get through to EES and passport control.

And matters could only get worse with Spanish airport staff preparing to strike during March and April.

Ground staff are planning to strike at 12 airports across the country – including Tenerife South.

Other airports that could be affected include Madrid-Barajas, Málaga-Costa del Sol, Alicante-Elche, Barcelona-El Prat, Bilbao, Valencia and Bilbao.

And on the islands; Palma de Mallorca,  Gran Canaria, Tenerife Norte, Lanzarote, Fuerteventura and Ibiza.

For anyone heading to Tenerife – here are the top tips from someone who has been travelling there for a decade.

And here’s more on the Spanish island that feels more like Mars and flights are just £35.

IF you thought being able to lay down on a plane was just for first and business class, think again.

United Airlines is introducing a new ‘Relax Row’ making travel in economy much more comfortable.

Launching in 2027, the Relax Row is a dedicated row of three seats that can transform into a ‘couch’, or lie-flat bed.

The seats will be designed with adjustable leg rests that can fold up and mattress pad placed on top.

Travellers can then stretch out whether they want to spend their journey sleeping or watching a film.

The airline said: “The United Relax Row is ideal for families traveling with small children, solo travelers and couples who want the value of United Economy but with a little extra comfort.”

GET IT BOOKED

The ‘cheap luxury’ beach resorts under 4 hours from UK with breaks from £75pp

HOT LIST

Where our travel experts will holiday this year – and how we found the best deals

Along with a mattress pad, those on the Relax Row will get blankets, extra pillows, a toy and children’s travel kit.

The new Relax Row will appear on United Airlines aircraft in 2027.

By 2030, the airline said it will be on more than 200 of its Boeing 787 and Boeing 777 widebody aircraft with 12 Relax Row sections on each plane.

Andrew Nocella, United’s Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer said: “Customers traveling in United Economy on long-haul flights deserve an option for more space and comfort, and this is one way we can deliver that for them.

“United is the only North American airline offering a product like the United Relax Row and is one of the many reasons why we’re continuing to win brand loyal customers.”

The cost of the new seat option is yet to be confirmed.

United Airlines has other perks for families including free family seating, which allows children under 12 to sit next to an accompanying adult for free at time of booking.

And while United Airlines will be the first North American airline to offer lie-flat seats in economy, there other airlines who already offer this for their passengers.

Air New Zealand has its Skycouch which is the same – a row of three economy seats that transform into a lie-flat bed.

Lufthansa have what they call the Sleeper’s Row which is for long-haul flights that are over 11 hours long.

Passengers get a full row of three or four seats with a mattress topper, pillow, and blanket at the airport.

The additional charge for this is between €169–€249 (£146.28-£215.52).

For more on airlines, here are the best ones in the world – and one in the UK makes the list.

And from one Travel Writer who has visited 50 countries – here’s why she rates this much-loathed budget airline.

The Foreign Office has updated its travel advice for Brits heading to Portugal ahead of the school holidays, with warnings around new rules on how long you can stay

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has issued advice for Brits travelling to Portugal.

To ensure that Brits are aware of any warnings, entry requirements, security, safety, or health risks before travelling to destinations across the globe, the Foreign Office is constantly updating its travel advice. The advice can change rapidly, or remain the same for months, but just last week, a change was made for those visiting Portugal.

In an update on Friday, 20 March, which is still current as of 25 March, the FCDO updated the entry requirements for Brits heading to the popular European destination, which offers sprawling beaches and vibrant cities. The government stated that if you’re staying for longer than 90 days, within a 180-day period, and need to extend in “exceptional circumstances”, you must take action.

READ MORE: Warning as tourist is detained for going on a walk in holiday hotspotREAD MORE: ‘I’ve been to every country in the world and my favourite was so good I moved there’

The FCDO website stated: “If you’re visiting Portugal and need to extend your visa-free stay for exceptional reasons, such as a medical emergency, you must apply to AIMA using their contact form (access is only available to users in Portugal). If you’re in Portugal with a residence permit or long-stay visa, this does not count towards your 90-day visa-free limit.

“If you’re in Portugal with a residence permit or long-stay visa, this does not count towards your 90-day visa-free limit.”

As it stands, UK residents with a British passport can travel to Portugal without a visa for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. This applies if you are a tourist, visiting friends or family, attending a business meeting, cultural or sports events, or visiting for short-term studies or training.

This also applies to Brits visiting the Schengen area, which comprises 29 European countries, who can travel without a visa for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. Countries in the Schengen area include: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Czechia, Croatia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Malta, Norway, the Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland.

However, the FCDO outlined: “If you’re travelling to other Schengen countries as well, make sure your whole visit is within the 90-day visa-free limit. Visits to Schengen countries in the 180 days before you travel count towards your 90 days. If you overstay the 90-day visa-free limit, you may be banned from entering Schengen countries for up to 3 years.”

Additionally, from 10 April 2026, the European Union’s (EU) new Entry/Exit System (EES) is expected to be fully rolled out. This means that when travelling into the Schengen area for short stays, you may be required to register your biometric details, such as fingerprints and a photo, which is done at the border on arrival for free.

Brits travelling to the Schengen area must also be aware of the passport requirements. The government states that the passport must:

• Have a ‘date of issue’ less than 10 years before the date you arrive – if you renewed your passport before 1 October 2018, it may have a date of issue that is more than 10 years ago
• Have an ‘expiry date’ at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave the Schengen area (the expiry date does not need to be within 10 years of the date of issue)

If your passport does not meet the requirements above, you may be denied entry to the country and turned away at the airport. You can renew or replace your passport online through the government website.

Brits are advised to renew or replace their passports as soon as possible, as processing can take around three weeks and sometimes longer during the peak travel season. For more information on Portugal’s entry requirements, visit the government’s foreign travel advice page.

Do you have a travel story to share? Email webtravel@reachplc.com

Stephen and Viv have been to 60 countries but say this was their worst experience

A couple who have travelled to 60 countries after appearing on Race Across the World have blasted a “shocking” airport lounge as the worst they’ve ever experienced. Stephen and Viv Redding, from Uppingham, Rutland were left stunned after paying nearly £50 to access what they thought would be a relaxing business class lounge.

Stephen, 64, and Viv, 68, visited the Avianca lounge while waiting for their flight to Bogotá before returning to London Heathrow, following a six-week trip around South America. They claim to have been met with “tasteless” food and shabby surroundings.

“We bought business class tickets because it was a long-haul flight and that way we can have flat beds and get a bit of sleep,” Stephen said. “We’d been led to believe that we would have lounge access [at the airport] but when we went up to the lounge, we were told that our tickets did not qualify.

“So we decided that we would pay for the upgrade because we knew we had over two hours to spare.”

Once inside, the couple, who appeared on the BBC travel show in 2024, say they were shocked by the poor quality on offer at the San Jose lounge. Stephen said: “There was only one meal available, tasteless and watery spaghetti bolognese.

“The pasta was cold, the sauce was not very nice. There was a little side bread thing that was dried and tasteless. We were given drinks tokens for a glass of wine, which meant we were only allowed one drink each – one glass of wine each!

“The place was not good. The seats weren’t comfy, the tables were shabby, it was not what we’d experienced from any other airport lounge that we’ve been to. And to be fair, there have been quite a few since Race Across the World two years ago.

“We’ve been to about 60 countries now and probably up to a dozen lounges across the globe and this is the worst lounge that we’ve ever been to.”

The pair raised their concerns with staff at the time but claim they were met with little interest. After returning home, they contacted Avianca to request a refund, but say their complaint was rejected. Stephen added: “We asked for money back because of the poor lounge quality but they have refused and rejected that claim and basically said that’s just the way it is.

“I must also say though that the flight with Avianca was absolutely spot on, I have no complaints at all.

“[That being said], we were disappointed and actually after being away for six weeks touring through the north of South America we were tired and just wanted to relax in a bit of comfort, but this did not fulfil our needs by any means.”

As I turned the corner on a narrow, cobbled street in Granada, I felt as if I had stumbled upon a slightly sinister re-enactment society. Mysterious men dressed in white robes and tall, conical, face-covering hats with slits for their eyes were followed by women in black dresses and mantillas, holding pillar candles and crosses, then children wearing caped cloaks, carrying baskets of prayer cards.

It was indeed a re-enactment of sorts, but deeply rooted in Catholicism, representing the Passion of Christ, staged during Holy Week (Semana Santa), which runs from 29 March to 5 April this year. Easter processions are held across the country, but this Andalucían city hosts one of the most authentic in Spain.

Unlike more celebratory parades, these are sombre affairs, as each of the 32 brotherhoods weaves its way through the streets with enormous floats (pasos) hoisted on the shoulders of scores of men (costaleros) who spend months preparing for this herculean task – a coveted role, often passed down from father to son. To rehearse, they carry heavy wooden tables through the streets after dark, which is a startling sight when you come across a team in training.

On the floats are larger-than-life figures of a weeping Virgin Mary and Christ on the cross, as well as precious icons normally sequestered in chapels. The bearers are hidden underneath, surrounded by velvet drapes, so all that is visible is their white-soled feet as they inch their way along. Every so often, a cheer rises from the spectators, when a difficult manoeuvre has been managed.

Palm Sunday marks the first of eight days of processions, Good Friday being the busiest with six events throughout the city, but – having visited many times in an attempt to improve my Spanish – my personal favourites are on Maundy Thursday in the Albaicín, the Moorish quarter of the city. At San Miguel Bajo church at 5pm, the brotherhood of Aurora emerges to commence its seven-hour slow march with soulful renditions of saetas – flamenco-style religious songs – and then a brass band accompanies the statues as they pass by. Then, at midnight, the Cristo del Silencio procession moves in silence, guided by candlelight, the only sound a repeating muffled drum with Christ on the cross borne aloft by penitents in black cloaks. I have yet to stay awake until 4am for the finale at Granada cathedral.

Whether or not you come to Granada at Easter to witness the processions, it’s a great time to visit, with the weather warming up and the streets coming alive. At the foot of the Sierra Nevada mountains – popular with skiers, cyclists and walkers – it’s my favourite city in Spain, with elegant architecture, lush gardens and varied cuisine. I can get pleasantly lost for hours in the meandering streets of the Albaicín, then walk down the steep slope to Plaza Nueva, great for people-watching, and on to the tree-lined boulevard by the Genil River, lingering at the art nouveau restaurant Las Titas (The Aunties). It’s a strenuous walk (or easy bus ride) up to Sacromonte, past the Roma caves museum, with magnificent views over the Alhambra (the Islamic palace and citadel, which is a Unesco world heritage site) and the entire city your reward.

The sociable Spanish eat outside in all weathers. At Easter, special foods include almond-based pastries such as piononos de Santa Fe – thin, rolled sponge cakes soaked in syrup, topped with toasted cream representing the Pope’s crown – and torta real de Motril, from a 150-year-old recipe of almonds, egg white and a shiny sugar crust, both sold in cafes and bakeries (panaderías) across town. You can also buy homemade pastries at some convents – look for the sign Venta de dulces. A savoury dish you will spot on Easter menus around the city is potaje de vigilia, a stew of cod, chickpeas and spinach.

But food here is special at any time of year – with plenty of meat-free choices too. Something to celebrate is the free tapa (often quite generous) with every drink from the bar, and drinks are cheap, at about €3 for a glass of wine or beer. A tapas crawl may take in La Goma in Calle Gracia, Bar Poë in Calle Verónica de la Magdelena and Tocateja in Calle Trinidad.

The menú del día at restaurants is great value – three courses for about €15, served on weekdays – followed by siesta time when shops close from 2pm to 5pm (except in the city centre), then open again, often until 10pm. For indoor eating, my latest discovery is the popular Mezze in Calle Laurel de las Tablas, opened last year by two British entrepreneurs and an Argentine chef. It serves eastern Mediterranean dishes, my choice being aubergine “meatballs”, stuffed artichokes and tempura mushrooms.

After that, you may fancy some flamenco, and there is no shortage of high-standard establishments. Jardines de Zoraya in Calle Panaderos is my favourite. What makes it extra special is the optional dinner you can order beforehand (show €25; dinner €32). I also love El Tabanco del tio Gregorio, a small flamenco club in Cuesta de San Gregorio (Friday and Saturday, €15).

Back on a religious theme, Granada has a host of ecclesiastical sites that are worth visiting. Many are built on the site of former mosques, including the Renaissance cathedral containing the lead coffins of the zealous Christian monarchs Isabella and Ferdinand (who notoriously expelled the Muslims and Jews in 1492), their daughter Joanna the Mad and her husband, Philip the Handsome. A short bus ride takes you to the Cartuja monastery, an over-the-top baroque monument with a picture gallery of sacred scenes and a secluded cloister garden planted with orange trees and aromatic plants.

The Easter Saturday procession starts from the Alhambra, and what could be a better backdrop? This magnificent monument attracts millions of visitors annually, so you need to book well in advance, but don’t be fleeced by the many “official” sites. Book via tickets.alhambra-patronato.es and pay €22.27. It’s free to walk up to the grounds and through the gardens ,though – a pleasant early evening stroll to avoid the crowds.

Convento de San Gregorio Bético (actually a church), next to an Arab souk, was reputedly once a wine warehouse and then a brothel. At noon each day, nuns gather to sing praises. As I sat listening behind the choir screen, it took me back to when I saved up pocket money to buy my first record in 1963: Dominique by The Singing Nun (6s 8d).

After a long day in this very walkable city, it’s sheer bliss to unwind at a hammam, my choice being Al Ándalus in Calle Santa Ana, where you can sip herbal tea between dips in hot, cold and steam baths. It’s another ancient custom the granadinos have kept alive.

This sun-soaked city that welcomes more than 3,000 hours of sunshine a year and a tropical climate, is a haven for holidaymakers seeking a quieter escape from the tourist crowds

A beautiful coastal city, less than three hours from the UK, offers a scenic escape with 21C April temperatures and £13 flights.

Almería, in southeast Spain, is set against the diverse landscapes of volcanic beaches, azure waters, and dramatic desert, with balmy rays and virtually year-round sunshine. It’s a lesser-known destination compared to the likes of Costa del Sol, with quieter beaches and a laid-back atmosphere for a more authentic Spanish experience.

Due to its location near the Tabernas Desert, Almería is known as the ‘desert coast’ and enjoys a warmer, drier climate than neighbouring areas. It welcomes more than 3,000 hours of sunshine a year and only around 26 days of rainfall, making it a highly desirable sun-soaked destination.

READ MORE: ‘Secret’ beach praised for crystal-clear waters and ‘dream-like’ beautyREAD MORE: ‘I’ve been to every country in the world and my favourite was so good I moved there’

In April, visitors can expect to bask in a balmy 21C and enjoy eight hours of blistering sunshine. During the summer months, temperatures can creep up to 32C, with an inviting 12 hours of sunshine every day, and a warm 24C in the turquoise sea.

Aside from the inviting climate, the coastal city offers an affordable holiday, with flights from London to Almería starting at £13 in April, or £17 from Manchester, according to Skyscanner. What’s more, prices don’t rise too much during the peak summer season, with flights from Manchester to Almería costing from £28 one-way in July, or from £33 departing from London.

Once you’ve arrived in the pretty Spanish city, the appealing prices only continue. Travel experts at First Choice found that a beer could set you back just £3 (€3.50) in Almería, while a three-course meal for two typically costs between £25 (€30) and £30 (€35).

Alongside its stretches of golden-sand beaches, crystal-clear blue waters, and diverse landscapes, there’s plenty to explore in the Spanish region. The walkable, compact city centre is brimming with charm, from its Gothic and Renaissance architecture to ancient landmarks, narrow streets and bustling tapas bars.

Almería is renowned for its huge tapas culture and vibrant bars, so you’ll often get free tapas with every drink, as you dine alongside Spaniards. There’s also the 16th-century cathedral towering over the streets, the Plaza Vieja with its beautiful architecture and palm trees, and the main shopping area of Puerta de Purchena, which is brimming with boutique shops.

Away from the city is the protected Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park, with volcanic cliffs, hidden coves, and some of the most stunning Spanish beaches. There’s also the striking Tabernas Desert that you can explore during a guided day tour, as well as the charming whitewashed hilltop village of Mojácar.

The village may look recognisable to some as it was famously used as the backdrop for major Hollywood movies, including Indiana Jones, and the hit TV series Game of Thrones. There’s even the opportunity to visit the preserved Wild West film set of MiniHollywood Oasys, which offers various shows and attractions in a setting that will transport you straight onto the set of Indiana Jones.

Do you have a travel story to share? Email webtravel@reachplc.com

The passport system is also changing soon

Families have been warned to be careful to avoid a costly mistake when heading away on holiday. The word of warning comes as key changes to the passport system are coming in soon.

Your holiday photos could cost you a lot of money and could invalidate your home insurance. Karishma Darji, from storage group Ready Steady Store, said: “Posting holiday selfies while you’re away might seem harmless, but it tells the world your home is empty. Insurers could view that as poor security.”

She said this mistake could land you a large bill if the worst happens.

Ms Darji said: ” If your property is burgled and investigators find public posts showing you were away, they may argue you didn’t take ‘reasonable care’ to protect your home.”

If your insurance is invalidated due to you posting a holiday snap while you are away from home and you are burgled, you will be responsible for covering the costs of any loss and damages yourself. Ms Darji said this could mean you end up with a four-figure bill to pay.

She explained: “The annual Crime Survey for England and Wales, published by the ONS in April 2025 shows that the average loss from burglary equates to £4,269. The average value of stolen items sits around £2,800, whereas damage from forced entry averages at £1,400.

“However, every house differs based on the value of possessions they own, so the total cost to replace items could be significantly higher.” In light of this danger, her simple word of advice is: “Save the snaps until you’re back to avoid invalidating your claim.”

Passport changes

This update comes as the cost of applying for a passport is soon to increase. Application fees are increasing by 8 per cent, with the new fees coming in from April 8.

The proposed increases, which need to be approved by Parliament, will include the following:

• The standard online application submitted from within the UK will rise from £94.50 to £102 for adults
• This will go up from £61.50 to £66.50 for children under 16
• Postal applications will increase from £107 to £115.50 for adults and £74 to £80 for children under 16
• The charge for a Premium Service (one-day) application submitted from within the UK will rise from £222 to £239.50
• The charge for a standard online application for a UK adult passport when applying from overseas will rise from £108 to £116.50
• This will also increase from £70 to £75.50 for children under 16
• Standard paper applications for overseas passports will see a rise from £120.50 to £130 for adults, and from £82.50 to £89 for children under 16.

LOOKING for a breezy Gatwick airport hotel with a bit of an atmosphere?

Here’s everything you need to know about the Sandman Signature London Gatwick.

Where is the hotel?

Being positioned at the edge of an A-road isn’t normally considered a bragging right.

But in this instance, the roadside location of this airy hotel is the main reason to visit.

Around a 10-minute drive from the UK’s second largest airport, the 4* Sandman Signature London Gatwick offers excellent park and fly packages.

What’s the hotel like?

It’s basic, clean and modern, with the highlight being comfortable beds to ensure you get a great night’s kip ahead of an early flight.

SUPER SM-ART

Artist Residence, Bristol hotel review

PIT STOP & SHOP

Mollie’s Motel & Diner, Oxfordshire hotel review

The real perk of this hotel is that guests can save on pricey airport parking by booking onto a four, eight or 15 day deal that includes parking at the hotel, one night’s stay and a private transfer to the airport the following morning.

What are the rooms like?

Clean and relatively modern rooms come in a variety of sizes and bed set ups to suit all manner of groups or travellers, including standard rooms, family rooms and triple rooms. 

The standout of my standard king room was the marshmallow-like pillows that made for an ultra comfortable snooze ahead of an early morning trip.

What is there to eat and drink?

Unless you want to hitch a ride into Crawley, eating at the hotel is your only option due to its isolated location.

Luckily, the American-style grub here is decent – and there’s a cracking cocktail menu that will help you kick off your holiday in proper style.

Loaded burgers make up a large portion of the food menu, but there are salads, pasta dishes, curries and wings too.

Margarita lovers should wash their dinner down with a Big Bite, one of the hotel’s signature cocktails.

A spicy twist on the classic margarita, this one will blow your socks off.

If you have time for brekkie, there is a good selection of hot and cold options. 

What else is there to do?

What really makes this hotel shine is the staff.

Everyone here was accommodating and, above all, cheery, gearing visitors up for their holiday.

Even at 4am, the concierge was whipping up coffees with a smile for me and fellow guests ahead of our weary-eyed taxi rides. 

How much is the hotel?

Rooms cost from £89 per night. Park and fly packages vary.

Is the Sandman Signature London Gatwick family friendly?

Extremely. Rooms come in lost of convenient sizes including four-person family rooms, with a double, single and trundle bed.

There’s also triple rooms like double and single beds.

Is there access for guests with disabilities?

Yes. There’s a lift up to bedrooms and accessible rooms come with extra space for wheelchair users, lowered features, wet rooms with pullable cords and a lot of well-thought out facilities.

IT ISN’T even summer yet but we wouldn’t blame you if you are already excited about Christmas – and there’s good reason to be with some changes coming to LaplandUK.

LaplandUK – the huge family-friendly Christmas attraction – will be dropping tickets for both the Ascot and Manchester experiences this week,

Ahead of the drop on March 27 (this Friday) at 10am, the attraction has also revealed some big changes to the experience this year.

One of the biggest changes is that guests will get more time in the Elven Village.

This means guests will have more time to go ice skating, letter writing and enjoying the magical atmosphere of the Elven World.

Whilst LaplandUK hasn’t yet confirmed how long visitors will now have in the Elven Village, in previous years visitors had 90 minutes to enjoy the area.

Read more on travel inspo

park up

I bagged half-price Butlin’s trip… how YOU can save with my booking trick & tips

HOL YES

I’m a travel editor & mum-of-3… my favourite family holidays from just £3pp a night

Another change for this year is that every child will now have the opportunity – included in their ticket – to create their own reindeer food with the Elves, ready to lay out on Christmas Eve for Father Christmas’ reindeer.

There is also a new invitation box this year, meaning that anyone who books a LaplandUK experience for 2026 will receive their invitations by the end of summer.

Returning this year will also be Mother Christmas’s Kitchen where kids will get more time to decorate gingerbread before meeting with Mother Christmas and the Elves for traditional story time.

LaplandUK is also bringing back the portal that takes humans ‘back to the UK’, but making it bigger for this year.

This year, LaplandUK will run from November 7 to December 24, with tickets costing between £60 and £195.

Last year, 350,000 tickets were available and before the tickets were released, over 750,000 people were waiting in the virtual queue online.

On March 27, when tickets go on sale, there will be a virtual queue online from 9am.

Guests will need to select their preferred venue – either Ascot or Manchester, – and then at 10am when tickets are released, each guest will automatically be allocated a random place in the queue for the venue they selected.

Once they reach position one in the queue, they will be able to select the number of tickets they want and the date they wish to visit.

After purchasing their tickets, in the following months guests will be sent a personalised invitation.

On the day of visiting, guests will venture through “secret portals in the Whispering Woods of the UK and follow magical pathways to arrive in Lapland”.

And throughout the day there will be performances and interactive activities such as helping out the Elves in the Toy Factory to make a toy to pop in Father Christmas’ Sleigh.

Kids will get a special moment with Santa as well, where they get a gift to take home and their parents are handed the toy they created in the Lapland Toy Factory to be given on Christmas Day.

To find out what it is like to visit LaplandUK, one Sun reporter visited the new experience in Manchester last year.

Plus, a mum has shared her top Lapland UK tips, including how to save money and the best areas to go to.

IF you fancy a quiet escape off the coast of the UK, then an island is about to become much easier to get to.

The L-shaped Rathlin Island is six miles off County Antrim in Northern Ireland and is home to just 140 residents.

It does get busier during tourist season with holidaymakers hopping over on the ferry – which will relaunch for spring.

And there’s even more on offer with new weekend sailings starting up.

Once on the island, the main port and beach is where you’ll arrive.

Called Church Bay, it’s a small harbour with a gravel shoreline where visitors can spot seals and also check out the island’s only pub.

GET IT BOOKED

The ‘cheap luxury’ beach resorts under 4 hours from UK with breaks from £75pp

HOT LIST

Where our travel experts will holiday this year – and how we found the best deals

McCuaig’s Bar sits opposite the bay with an adjoining Ebb and Flow Cafe.

The walls of the bar are decorated with name places from ships that have been wrecked around Rathlin.

In total, there have been over 40 shipwrecks off the coast of Rathlin Island.

The island itself has three lighthouses which are needed because of Rathlin’s unique shape.

It’s on the western tip of Rathlin Island where you’ll find the ‘upside down’ lighthouse.

It was built into the cliff face back in 1912 and has been there to guide in boats and ships ever since.

While it’s not actually upside down, the lighthouse has its lantern room at the bottom of the tower rather than the top – which is traditional.

The reason is that when it guides ships in, the light isn’t obscured by fog that usually settles at the top of the cliff.

The island isn’t just popular for tourists seeking a quiet getaway as it’s also a nature reserve for seabirds.

So you’ll be able to spot razorbills, kittiwakes and puffins.

During the spring and summertime, some of the most popular activities include heading to Knockans viewpoint.

On a clear day, from here you can see across to Donegal.

Seals will be sunbathing at Church Bay and Mill Bay – which is on the east side of the island.

For those who don’t just want a day trip to the island, there is a hotel too.

The Manor House is an 18th century guesthouse with 12 rooms, a restaurant, bar and café.

It has a rich history as the house was built in 1756 for the Gage family, who bought the island 10 years earlier.

The last member of the Gage family to live at the Manor House was Brigadier Rex Gage who died in 1973.

Now, the hotel is owned by the National Trust – single rooms start from £80 and doubles from £140.

Come spring, there will be daily crossings from Ballycastle Harbour to Rathlin Island.

The ferries will run from April 3 to September 20, 2026 with an extra return journey every Saturday and Sunday morning.

The additional return crossings will leave Rathlin at 8.30am and Ballycastle at 9.30am.

It has two ferries, one that’s passenger-only and another that can take larger luggage cases and even pre-booked vehicles onto the island if you fancy driving around.

The quickest ferry takes just 25 minutes.

For more on Northern Ireland, this pretty city has unique black cab tours, and waterfall walks.

And this quirky UK city was named one of the top foodie destinations for 2025 with historic pub crawls and cheap hotels.