holidays

IF you’re already planning your next camping holiday, then these are the places you should be booking.

Caravan and Motorhome Club  has announced the winners of its 2026 Site Awards, with beachfront destinations to pitches in the Cotswolds.

The Site Awards are awarded to ‘celebrate the dedication, hard work and creativity of campsite teams across its UK network’.

The 2026 awards had three main categories: the longstanding Sites in Bloom competition, the newly introduced Inspirational Photograph Award, and the Sustainability Award.

One of the new awards for this year is the Inspirational Photograph Award Winners which highlights summer campsite staff who capture things like landscapes, wildlife, and facilities across the campsite network.

One of the winners was the New England Bay Club Campsite in Scotland which sits right off the beach and has sweeping views of Luce Bay.

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Here, campers can go swimming, sailing, or try out water sports.

On-site there’s also a playground and games room with the nearby town of Stranraer having golf courses, green bowling, a swimming pool, sports centre, theatre and cinema.

It has 67 touring pitches, three camping pitches and rates start from £15.20.

Another of the winning campsites is Broadway Club Campsite in the Cotswolds.

Surrounded by natural beauty, the campsite is a perfect spot for exploring the cycling and walking trails.

It’s easily within walking distance of Tuesday Street Market – which is the largest open air street market in the Cotswolds, as well as over twenty local pubs, restaurants, and cafes.

Being on Bourton Road, the campsite is ideal for anyone wanting to explore Bourton-on-the-Water and Moreton-in-Marsh.

On-site it has a play area for children with a climbing frame.

It has 184 touring pitches and 10 pods available to hire – rates start from £22.30.

Coniston Park Coppice Club Campsite also scooped up the award in the category for the best in the North of England.

The campsite itself sits within acres upon acres of woodland where visitors will find the 232 pitches ranging from touring to camping and pods.

On-site is a mini adventure playground and nearby, families can go cycling, rock climbing, and even enjoy guided pony treks.

Of course, the campsite has direct access to Coniston Water where there’s a chance to go sailing, windsurfing, and canoeing.

On Coniston Pier a few miles away, there are steamboat rides and boat hire.

Rates for pitches at Coniston Park Coppice Club Campsite start from £23.50.

Harvey Alexander, CEO of the Caravan and Motorhome Club, said: “Our campsite teams work tirelessly to create welcoming environments and memorable stays for our members and guests.

“The 2026 Site Awards highlight the incredible passion, care and creativity present across our entire campsite network. Congratulations to all of this year’s winners and runners-up.”

Here’s the full list of the Caravan and Motorhome Club Site Award Winners…

2026 Sustainability Award

Clumber Park Club Campsite

Sites in Bloom Winners

Multi-Couple Site Winner: Battle Normanhurst Court Club Campsite

Single-Couple Site Winner: Englethwaite Hall Club Campsite

Single-Couple Site Winner: Englethwaite Hall Club Campsite

Inspirational Photograph Award Winners:

Middle England & Anglia: 

1st & 3rd – Castleton Club Campsite

2nd – Lickpenny Matlock Club Campsite

Southern: 

1st- Broadway Club Campsite

2nd – New Forest Centenary Club Campsite

3rd – Crossways Club Campsite

South West: 

1st & 2nd – Dornafield Dartmoor Club Campsite 

3rd – Putts Corner Club Campsite

South East: 

1st – Rookesbury Park Club Campsite

2nd – Bearsted Club Campsite

3rd – Alderstead Heath Club Campsite 

Scotland: 

1st – New England Bay Club Campsite

2nd & 3rd – Altnaharra Club Campsite

Northern: 

1st & 3rd – Coniston Park Coppice Club Campsite

2nd – Troutbeck Head Club Campsite

FIVE minutes into my holiday and the conversation had already turned to poo.  

Animal poo, but poo nonetheless. And lots of it, apparently.  

We had needed a holiday but, with money tight, were forgoing poolside cocktails and fluffy hotel bathrobes for a stay volunteering at Fairfield Community Farm on Ruskington Fen, Lincs.  

I wasn’t sure if my 13-year-old daughter would forgive me for calling this a holiday. 

Kathy, the farm’s founder, was explaining the work to be done before we had even put up our tent.  

“There are goats to groom and pigs waiting for belly scratches,” she said.  

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Run entirely by volunteers, the farm uses animals, nature and getting dirty to support wellbeing and is home to more than 30 animals, including goats, sheep, pigs, ponies, chickens, ducks and geese.  

While she may have been less than enthusiastic at the thought of the trip, within hours my daughter was bottle-feeding The Hooligans – a trio of frisky sheep – and discovering that Milkshake, a 250kg Tamworth-cross pig, has no concept of personal space.  

The day passed in a blur of feeding, grooming, feeding, carrying and more feeding. 

Soon, we’d clocked up a full day on the farm without checking the time. 

Nightfall at Fairfield didn’t mean sundowners, either.  

There were ponies to settle into their stables and last jobs to finish before we could finally retreat to our tent. Then, the rain started.  

Sloshing our way into Day Two, we realised that volunteering at Fairfield isn’t all cuddling lambs. If a fence needs fixing, a gate needs painting or a stable needs mucking out – did I mention poo? – you roll up your sleeves and get on with it.  

Then came the task of moving The Hooligans from one end of the farm to the other. Simple, it was not. 

We laughed, skipped and side-kicked our way across the field while the bleating Hooligans went in different directions. 

Herding sheep is definitely an acquired skill, but my daughter and I were starting to feel like right Farmer Joes. 

And between the animals, endless cups of tea, a visit from the farrier to tend Quin’s hooves and collecting goose eggs, something else happened. 

We stopped rushing. We forgot about our worries.  

Carol, one of Fairfield’s longest-serving helpers, said her weekly volunteering sessions give her purpose, connection and something to look forward to, adding: “The farm saved my life.” 

I may have been looking for an affordable British break with a difference. 

But after our stay at Fairfield – between poultry pecks, pony pats and poo (did I mention the poo?) – our break became something I didn’t expect.  

Quality time together. Nowhere else to be. And nothing to rush for. 

But next year, I’m putting in a request for a shower. 

THIS is easily the best way to ray-se your holiday game.

Swimming with stingrays on a sandbar in the Caribbean, a 25-minute boat trip from Grand Cayman.

Standing in the warm, waist-deep water amid dozens of these exotic animals is about as close to the ultimate relaxation as you can imagine.

They are totally conditioned to visitors, there’s very little danger of a Steve Irwin moment — and I found it hard to resist the chance to pose while kissing one, though it’s probably not the most ecologically sound thing to do.

The kiss was a bit sloppy and rubbery, but the stingray said she’d had worse.

There really is no better escape from our miserable weather than a Caribbean cruise, gleefully ticking the sun, sand and sea boxes.

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Your only questions are which ship, which ports and what to do when you’re not chilling with the fishes.

We were delighted to be on board Holland America’s Nieuw Statendam, which we joined in Fort Lauderdale, for a week-long voyage stopping in the Bahamas, Jamaica, Grand Cayman and Cozumel, an island just off the Mexican coast.

It’s a lovely ship, a nice size with just over 2,500 passengers, and all the bells and whistles you would expect in such a luxury floating hotel.

We loved the Crow’s Nest, the top-deck bar which is the place to be on a sea day, sampling cocktails and deciding which of the many restaurants to eat in that evening, while wondering who those people are who actually spend time in the admittedly well-equipped gym.

We could see people sweating away in there while we went for a stroll around the open decks, stepping carefully over the jogging track and gently bickering over how much to spend playing roulette in the casino.

That is the key point of cruising. It is not normal. Normal life doesn’t have free food at every turn (and free drinks if you invest in the Have It All package) — and if you’re not cruising you don’t pitch up at a private island in the Bahamas very often.

Holland America’s Half Moon Cay featured gorgeous, white-sand beaches to sunbathe on or snorkel off, a friendly bar, a tasty BBQ and, best of all . . . sea horses.

Sorry, not sea horses, but horses that go in the sea. It was truly exhilarating, riding around the paddock and beach first before heading into the water on horseback — and galloping, then swimming through the waves, with no fear of falling off as you’re guaranteed a soft landing.

One fellow rider asked how well the horses were looked after, and got the reassuring response from an animal welfare point of view: “Better than the staff!”

From Half Moon Cay, it was next stop Jamaica, making port in Ocho Rios on the north of the island.

There really are lots of options and excursions for you to pick over and plan for here before you board, including ziplining for the adventurous, river rafting — and the classic, climbing Dunn’s River Falls.

We opted for the waterfalls and it was a lot of fun, going up the river in small groups with everyone buzzing, laughing, splashing and helping each other over the tougher bits (they’re not that tough, I’m an unfit sixty-something and coped).

Reward yourself with a tasty ice-cream at the end before making the short trip back to the ship.

And the options for amusement on board are just as varied. Sit back and enjoy more laughter with a top comedian, take in a bit of live music or a show — and dance the night away.

Or pit your wits in a quiz, challenge your partner to a game of chess, watch a movie or simply sit back and relax with a good book.

Nieuw Amsterdam also offers a host of options for both live and recorded entertainment, and a packed programme of talks and activities.

We had great nights enjoying the live shows in B.B. King’s Blues Club, with the talented All-Stars house band making music and memories, though I do need to find a better quiz team as our pre-show performance in the general-knowledge tester was sadly lacking.

We also enjoyed treat meals and wines in The Pinnacle Grill, Tamarind and Morimoto by Sea, all well worth the supplement — though the standard of cuisine is excellent throughout the vessel, from the buffet to the main dining rooms, and not forgetting the essential late-night pizza availability after watching movies by moonlight on the open deck.

Our last port of call before sailing back to Florida was Cozumel, a charming if tourist-centric island a short ferry ride from the Mexican mainland.

Again, build up your anticipation of your cruise by selecting activities before you go.

We had tough decisions to make, I was well up for going to watch a Lucha Libre show — you know, the Mexican wrestling where they wear masks and get all acrobatic.

Passengers who did go to that loved it, but we decided to stick with what we do best — swimming with things.

Having already snogged a stingray and gone galloping through the waves on horseback, this time we were off to get up close and personal with manatees.

They were terrific, crunching down on heads of lettuce — and a real highlight of this corker of a Caribbean cruise.

Wife Lucy loved them — but has a soft spot for a leathery-skinned, rotund, slow-moving mammal.

GOBBLING up sandy scraps of seaweed from the beach floor certainly isn’t the norm for me on a coastal stroll.

But it was for the residents of Guernsey between the 12th and 16th Centuries. And it’s a tradition that’s now coming back into fashion.

Nutrient-packed seaweed, abounding all over Guernsey, is free for the picking and just one of the many ways the island benefits from being surrounded by super-clean waters in the Channel.

I joined Guernsey Seaweed on one of its foraging tours of Havelet Bay and learned the marine plants here are in big demand at the island’s fanciest restaurants.

The slippery green stuff features heavily on a sophisticated menu at Michelin-starred Vraic, woven into cocktails and also adding a punch to rich broths.

After feasting on some pepper dulse, dubbed the truffle of the sea, I can completely see why chefs love it so much. There’s nothing of the fishy taste you would expect.

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Instead, I’m hit with a garlicky umami flavour.

The earthy and delicious taste, I’m told, is down to the warm temperature of the sea around the island, just 27 miles off France’s Normandy coast.

The Gulf Stream ensures the water here rarely dips below 8C in winter — which is why you’ll spot locals swimming year round.

Admittedly, even 13C felt like too much of a chill for me. But if you plan your trip well, you can ensure you combine a swim with a post-dip sauna session to warm up.

There are two mobile saunas on the island, Hot Haus and Rock Box, which can be booked online and are just a stone’s throw from the sea.

Rock Box, a converted, eucalyptus-infused horsebox, overlooks the Cobo Slipway in summer and features a huge window allowing those inside to soak up soothing coastal views while they sweat.

And sweat, I sure did. Conveniently, there are several watering cans, filled with icy water, positioned by the sauna door for guests to use in between ten to 15-minute stints in the heat.

The sauna was a treat that my limbs most definitely appreciated after a strenuous Pilates class earlier that morning.

Pilates instructor Lydia Cherry runs both Reformer and mat sessions at the Forme studio in St Andrews, for locals and holidaymakers alike.

Despite the moves seeming gentle, my abs were quivering within a matter of seconds as I was put through my paces.

If you prefer something a little more gentle, though, beachfront or paddleboard yoga are both popular choices for holidaymakers seeking a wellness fix.

That’s if you have enough strength left after tackling the island’s scenic coastal paths, though.

Guernsey is so small — around 24 square miles — that you can walk its coast in just a few days.

One of the more manageable treks — and beautiful — is the short 45-minute route from St Peter Port to Fermain Bay, combining fabulous coastal views with dense woodland that’s carpeted in bluebells during spring.

Reward your efforts afterwards with a tasty pint of local Rocquette cider — which uses some of that famed seaweed — at the Beach Cafe.

From my picnic table, perched just above the water, I could watch the foamy waves while listening to the birds overhead.

Make sure to order yourself a super-fresh crab sarnie, too, which comes loaded to the max and smothered in mayo. Delicious.

And that word can be used to describe the fare at many of the island’s restaurants.

Michelin-recommended Alba, in St Peter Port, in particular, strives to keep dishes local and serves up elegant sharing plates.

Its homemade tagliolini with Shetland mussels in a white wine and lemongrass sauce is an absolute steal at £15.

Wash it down with an Alba Tomatini, a classic martini with tomato twist (£11.50), and you’re in for a good night.

For a more casual bite, the Fleur du Jardin does classic pub grub, from fish-and-chips to bangers and mash.

It also has 14 boutique bedrooms upstairs that are as charming as the old-fashioned, stone-wall pub itself with its sea-themed decor.

The only thing that’s missing is a bit of seaweed.

WITH Halloween fast approaching, our Spotlight on column focuses on Londonderry, Northern Ireland.

The city is home to Europe’s biggest Halloween festival – now in its 40th year.

To celebrate, the city is launching a year-round Derry Samhain Experience and a permanent Halloween mural.

Here are some other top tips from us, including where to stay and some hidden gems.

MUST SEE/DO

From October 28 to November 1, The Awakening The Walled City Trail fills the city centre with light installations, street theatre, fire performers and live music, while the Little Horrors programme keeps younger children busy.

On Halloween night the Carnival Parade sets off at 7pm, followed by fireworks over the River Foyle.

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Pack a costume, as locals take dressing up seriously.

The trail, parade and fireworks are all free, but if you plan to visit make sure you book a bed as soon as possible.

BEST VIEW

Derry‘s 17th-century walls, built between 1613 and 1618 to protect English and Scottish settlers, are the only fully preserved city walls in Ireland.

They have never been breached, not even during the 105-day siege of 1689.

The mile-long loop takes you past seven gates and 24 restored cannons, including Roaring Meg, stamped “Fishmongers, London, 1642” after the livery company that paid for it.

From the ramparts you can look down over the Bogside, where murals and Free Derry Corner tell the story of the Troubles.

HIDDEN GEM

The Dickensian-style Derry Craft Village in the heart of the city is a reconstruction of an 18th-century street and 19th-century square, home to more than 70 local makers.

It was built by the Inner City Trust, a charity set up in 1976 to rebuild the city centre during the Troubles. Its cafes are good for a coffee or a bite.

Derry Girls fans should then pop next door to the Tower Museum, home of the Derry Girls Experience.

RATED RESTAURANT

Browns Bonds Hill, on the east bank of the River Foyle, serves modern dishes made with local, seasonal produce.

Opened in 2009 by chef patron Ian Orr, Michelin‘s inspectors single it out for its good value.

For something more casual, sister restaurant Browns in Town is across the river on Strand Road and serves classic burgers, steak sandwiches and pasta.

BEST BAR

Peadar O’Donnell’s on Waterloo Street has live traditional Irish music every night, in a pub done up like an old-fashioned grocer’s and hung with flags.

It’s a top spot to pull up a stool and sink a pint of Guinness. If it’s too busy, try the Gweedore Bar, under the same roof with an equally buzzy atmosphere.

HOTEL PICK

The Walled City Hotel opened last autumn with 40 rooms in a 1920s former Bank of Ireland building on Strand Road, a two-minute walk from the Guildhall.

Its vaulted ceilings now look down on a bar and restaurant. Rooms cost from £102 per night. See walledcityhotel.com.

EXCLUSIVE: Luke Tweddle returned to Surrey four months ago after enjoying three years living in different parts of Australia and he has now spoken about the biggest differences he discovered

A young man who is back the UK after three unforgettable years in Australia has revealed the one reason he would not return Down Under on a permanent basis. Luke Tweddle, who is from Surrey, spent time in Adelaide and Sydney before house-sharing in Perth with his girlfriend where he enjoyed considerably higher wages than in the UK — while also being within walking distance to sandy beaches.

However, the 26-year-old moved back home to England four months ago. Asked whether he would ever consider living in Australia permanently, he replied with one understandable reason for remaining in his home country. He explained: “The benefit for me of living in the UK is being back around friends and family. If you were asking me, which country do you prefer? Australia actually wins hands down, but being there long-term can start to feel isolating.” He added: “We don’t currently plan to move back to Australia, but would definitely love to visit again to see anywhere we missed off.”

Luke said he had been enjoying the UK again and that despite describing Australia as “amazing”, it had become “very normal” to him, and therefore being here has felt like a fresh start.

Being closer to friends and family has also been invaluable and although he could have become sponsored to stay in Australia when his visa expired after three years, he and his girlfriend were “fairly happy” to call time on a remarkable adventure.

What Luke’s noticed after three years away

And questioned whether anything surprised him about being back in the UK, he said there were “multiple things”. He explained: “Firstly the fact that literally nothing had changed. The fact that I could be away for so long and do and see so much, yet you return and people are still going to the exact same job as the day you left, was definitely a strange feeling. Also the UK felt very busy, and town centres felt noticeably run down compared to Australia.

“Transport prices as well have been another thing that’s surprised me. They’re so expensive. And being away, I missed being around friends and family and I especially missed out on big events [which] could be difficult.”

Luke used to spend just £5 a day to use trains in Perth, but he previously revealed on his YouTube channel that he would “genuinely never get over” how expensive pints of beer were. However, as for rent, food shops and coffee outings, he said prices were similar to what he was used to at home.

Three things he misses from Australia

Laughing, he said he missed Australian wages, which he said were much better than in the UK and in New Zealand where he briefly lived too during his travels. He previously calculated that an average worker in Australia could save around £12,000 more annually compared to here where the average monthly take-home salary is £2,500.

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Luke said he missed being surrounded by nature constantly and the beach on his doorstep was also something that now feels a long way away.

However, as for the comparisons that now stand out the most, he concluded: “Australia is very modern, clean and well kept whereas the UK feels a lot more rundown and neglected.

“Also the culture, I found Australian culture very positive and Aussies have tremendous love for their country. Whereas the UK typically has a much more negative, complaining type culture with not much positivity towards the country.”

WHEN the temperature drops and the nights get darker, booking a holiday in to look forward to feels all the more important.

Luckily, if you know where to look, Britain is packed with brilliant holiday parks that actually get better in the winter months.

We’re talking massive, 30C indoor water worlds for warming up from the frost, to luxury log cabins and magical woodland light trails.

Plus, avoiding the peak summer rush means you can bag incredible deals for a fraction of the usual price, so here’s our winter holiday park favourites from a tiny £3.06pp per night.

Warmwell Holiday Park, Dorset

This cosy woodland holiday park in Dorset is made up of timber lodges only, with lakeside, hot tub and pet-friendly options sleeping up to eight people.

But don’t let the tranquil woodland setting fool you: Warmwell is packed with adrenaline. The park actually has its own 110m all-weather ski slope where you can ski, snowboard, or hurtle down in a rubber ring.

If you’d rather stay inside, the massive heated indoor pool has a thrilling, twisting water flume and a mini wave pool for little ones.

We found a three-night break in a superior lodge sleeping eight for £263, working out to £10.96pp per night.

Tattershall Lakes Country Park, Lincolnshire

While this action-packed holiday park is famous for its summer watersports, you’ll get a completely different experience in the winter.

This park puts on its very own ‘Winterfest‘, where from November 20 – December 20 you’ll find special events like candlelight concerts, kids house party events and the ‘Winterfest Spiegletent’ full of festive live entertainment.

There’s also the massive indoor pool and kids splash zone with slides for the kids, plus a luxurious spa and the cosy Tattershall Park Pub for Mum and Dad.

You can bag a four-night midweek break in a superior caravan sleeping eight from £168, or £5.25pp per night.

Sandy Balls Holiday Village, Hampshire

For a dose of woodland magic this winter, book in for a lodge retreat at Sandy Balls Holiday Village in Hampshire.

With The New Forest on your doorstep, you’ll have plenty of time for family bike rides, woodland alpaca walks or even strolling through the ‘Forest of Light’ festive display which arrives at the park in November.

Kids can head indoors to warm up with pottery painting or slime factory sessions, while grown-ups might prefer the evening’s Boombox Bingo, quiz or karaoke sessions.

We found a deal for a four night break in a luxury caravan sleeping six for £264, working out to £11pp per night.

Bluestone Wales, Pembrokeshire

Head to Pembrokeshire in Wales this winter to escape the cold and drizzle for a site with a giant, subtropical temperature waterpark.

Spend rainy afternoons in the Blue Lagoon Water Park, which is totally free for guests. There’s a wave machine, four waterslides, plus a relaxing lazy river and bubbling pools.

There’s plenty more weather-proof activities like an indoor zipline, climbing wall and a bear-making boutique.

We found a deal for a four-night break in a spacious wooden lodge for four for £540, working out to £33.75pp per night. Or if you want to book ahead for Jan or Feb, there’s an early bird offer on where you can save 10-20 per cent on 2027 breaks.

Seashore Holiday Park, Norfolk

If you love a winter beach break away from the crowds of the summer, you’ll love Great Yarmouth‘s only beachfront park: Seashore Holiday Park.

The flat, golden sands of Yarmouth are perfect for a winter stroll, before coming back to warm up in the heated indoor waterpark with two 11 metre flumes.

Once you’re done making a splash, you can retreat to a double-glazed, toasty heated caravan for a movie night.

We found a deal for a four night break in a saver caravan sleeping four for £49, working out to £3.06pp per night.

Finlake Resort & Spa, Devon

Finlake feels like a glamorous forest retreat with A-frame timber lodges with hot tubs, a woodland spa and sauna offering hot stone massages, and a glimmering fishing lake.

Kids will love the on-site waterpark Finlake Falls, which is heated to around 30C and packed with waterslides, fun sea scooters and a beach-like area with gentle waves for little ones.

Compared to somewhere like Center Parcs, where the cheapest seven-night lodge break we found this winter was £1,548 you’re getting much better value for money here.

At Finlake, you can bag a seven-night stay in a traditional, two-storey wooden lodge from £239 for the week.

Craig Tara, Ayrshire, Scotland

From the snow-dusted peaks of the Isle of Arran to the rugged clifftops of the Ayrshire coast, Scotland is beautiful in winter.

But it’s even better when you can retreat back to a cosy, centrally heated caravan or luxury lodge to thaw out.

Haven’s Craig Tara offers not only luxurious lodges and warm, affordable caravans, but one of the biggest heated indoor waterparks in Scotland, Splashaway Bay.

As for indoor activities, there’s also a giant indoor Airspace facility loaded with interactive darts, shuffleboard, and a climbing wall to wear the kids out.

You don’t even need to head out and brave the cold for dinner with an on-site Burger King, Papa Johns, and a sea-view restaurant just steps away.

We found a deal for a four night break in a saver caravan sleeping four for £49, working out to £3.06pp per night.

Speeding effortlessly towards the slopes by train, you might wonder why you ever flew to a ski resort. On paper, it seems a short hop by plane; in reality, airport queues, cramped flights and long transfers can mean the journey eats up a whole day.

Measured door-to-door, daytime rail travel from London can be as fast as flying, while taking a sleeper train gets you extra time on the slopes. And with Alpine glaciers suffering significant loss of snow cover as global temperatures rise, rail travel constitutes the biggest emissions saving a skier can make.

An exciting recent development is the arrival of a dedicated sleeper train for skiers, the Travelski Night Express (TNE), launched last winter and with an additional new route for the coming one. Each carriage has couchette berths, but the train’s crowning glory is its large, speakeasy-cafe-bar-restaurant, with retro decor, soft lighting and music – you get the romance of overnight rail travel with the potential for two extra days’ skiing thrown in.

The TNE has two routes: one from Paris, the other from Amsterdam and Brussels, going out on Fridays and returning on Saturdays. Both routes access Moûtiers, Aime-la-Plagne and Bourg-Saint-Maurice – stations in the popular Tarentaise region of the French Alps. UK-based skiers can connect to the TNE by Eurostar to Paris or Brussels.

Overnight journeys to Austria are also possible, with a Eurostar to Paris or Brussels and then a Nightjet sleeper train to the Salzburgerland region; or, for Innsbruck and the Tirol, a Nightjet from Amsterdam and Cologne.

An array of resorts in France and beyond can be reached every day of the week by taking the Eurostar to Paris Nord, getting a taxi or the RER for the short transfer to Gare de Lyon, and from there catching a fast TGV train south.

The most direct daytime option is Eurostar’s flagship ski service, Eurostar Snow, which carries snowboards and skis free of charge on top of the usual luggage allowance. Skiers take it from London to Lille, then switch to an adjacent platform for the onward train to Bourg-Saint-Maurice.

Unfortunately, the final outbound departure for this coming season is on 20 February, leaving the ski industry frustrated. Eurostar’s explanation is that it needs to “deploy rolling stock to where it best meets customer demand. Historically, March has not always been the strongest period for Eurostar Snow.”

Iain Martin, founder of sustainable ski-travel campaign Ski Flight Free, says: “It’s ridiculous for Eurostar to curtail their flagship service and blame lack of demand. If Eurostar worked effectively with the ski industry and ski tour operators to market the train, they could sell it out many times over.”

Ski tour operators are certainly hungry for more train seats. “We’re keen on promoting rail travel to the French Alps and we know clients want this,” says Alison Willis, managing director of French ski specialist Peak Retreats. “While changing in Paris is straightforward, we know that direct services are an even more compelling alternative for those who usually fly. March ski holidays, with longer days and excellent conditions, are really popular. So, we’d welcome more direct rail options across as much of the ski season as possible.”

It’s a view echoed by ski tour operator Inghams, which has increased its range of rail-inclusive packages to include 75% of its French destinations, as well as some in Switzerland, Italy and Austria. “There’s a genuine appetite among skiers to travel to the mountains by train,” says head of sustainability Krissy Roe.

Here are 12 resorts you can reach easily by rail.

St Anton am Arlberg, Austria

“The cradle of skiing”, St Anton is consistently ranked among the best resorts in the world. While its slopes are known for being challenging and exhilarating (the mighty Valluga being the pinnacle), there are plenty of gentler areas, too. St Anton isn’t just about skiing, either: this delightful village offers a host of activities, including swimming, bowling, indoor rock climbing and some of the best toboggan runs in the Alps. Completing its ski-hard, party-hard image, the resort is renowned for its après-ski, with a long list of celebrated terraces where visitors can dance to live music while knocking back schnapps.

By train: 10h 30min

Depart London St Pancras on the 07.31 Eurostar to Paris Gare du Nord; transfer to Paris Gare de Lyon and take the 12.22 TGV to Zurich; then the 16.40 Railjet to St Anton, arriving at 19.01.

Where to stay

Ski Solutions offers seven nights at the Hotel Post from £1,870pp half-board, including return rail travel.

Alpbach, Austria

Comprising antique, chocolate-box chalets, Alpbach is perhaps the prettiest village on this list, with fantastic skiing to boot. Despite its low altitude, the resort’s north-facing slopes protect fresh powder, with the best off-piste and snowboarding terrain being on the far side of the Wiedersbergerhorn. Alpbach has gone to great lengths to preserve its rustic character. The main lifts are a short shuttle ride away from the village, and you’ll find gorgeous Tyrolean dishes at mountain hut restaurants such as Böglalm, torchlit walking trails, horse-drawn carriage rides and an Alpine coaster. Pick up a free Alpbachtal Card for access to local activities.

By train: 16h 49min

Depart London St Pancras on the 15.04 Eurostar to Brussels-Midi; then catch the 18.25 ICE to Cologne; get on the 21.45 Nightjet to Jenbach, arriving at 08.53. From there, it’s 20 minutes by bus or taxi.

Where to stay

STC Ski offers the four-star Hotel Alphof, with doubles from £955pp for seven nights’ half-board.

Sainte-Foy-Tarentaise, France

IF you love the countryside but prefer something glam over actually getting mucky, this one’s for you.

Silchester Farm in Hampshire delivers all the charm of a country escape without you ever having to ruin your shoes.

This rustic retreat was even featured on Made in Chelsea, which tells you something about who you’ll be rubbing shoulders with here.

From where to eat to local history, here’s everything you need to know about staying at Silchester Farm in Hampshire.

Where is Silchester Farm?

This stay is in Silchester, a small village close to Basingstoke in Hampshire. The farm is less than an hour’s train journey away from London.

If travelling by car, the farm is well-signposted through a series of pleasant country lanes, crossing over wooden bridges and past old-fashioned country pubs and pretty churches.

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What’s it like?

A popular wedding venue, Silchester Farm is a stylish rural retreat set among fields of quietly grazing sheep and calm countryside.

The site centres around a series of manicured flower and vegetable patches, vine-draped arbours and an outdoor barn kitchen.

What are the rooms like?

Framing the outskirts of the vegetable patches you’ll find the Pyggies, nine giant, self-contained pig arks.

There’s room on the steps outside to drop off your wellies and brolly from your day at the farm. Once you open the door, you’re met with cosy warm orange lighting, a relaxing wood scent, and a giant bed you’ll immediately want to jump on.

The Pyggies are equipped with kitchenettes, which have lovely touches like glass-bottled milk in the fridge, posh teabags as well as matching cup and saucer sets.

In our Pyggy, Rosemary, a large telly sat above a cosy wood burner, opposite a large sofa to sink into. The bed was piled up with cosy throws, and behind a wooden screen was a roomy bathtub complete with the Silchester Farm’s own soaps and body creams.

A spacious rainfall shower, cosy curved ceiling and giant glass doors letting the sunlight pour through were the cherry on top of this chic countryside accommodation.

Rooms start from £252 per night for two, with great rates on last-minute bookings in particular. See SilchesterFarm.co.uk.

What is there to eat and drink?

The Trough Farm Shop on-site is a great spot for brunch, with coffee, sausage rolls, cakes and pastries available, with indoor and outdoor seating.

As for dinner, you’re best off booking in at a nearby pub, as the restaurant here is usually reserved for wedding guests.

The Plough Inn is a pretty, restored 18th century pub serving food and local ales, while The Calvella Arms does a spectacular sticky toffee pudding.

There are, however, food events you can book yourself onto at the farm. The Sunday Club offers fantastic roasts with giant yorkies (from £22) while the Harvest Feast sees the outdoor kitchen come alive with seasonal produce served by a roaring fire. Check dates here.

What else is there?

Silchester is a Roman village, and is a short walk from well-preserved, third century walls as well as amphitheatre ruins. Reception will happily direct you on the walking route.

While there’s no gym at a rustic retreat like this, there are bicycles available to hire, as well as a tennis court facing the pristine country gardens.

Is it family friendly?

Each of the Pyggies sleep up to two people, equipped with king-sized beds fit for two adults.

This retreat is best for couples’ escapes or friends getaways.

Is it accessible?

While there are ramps available for accessing the farm’s buildings and gardens, the site is made up of pebble and grass pathways also.

Silchester Farm recommend disabled visitors are accompanied by a companion where possible. For more information, see their website.

The Hotel Clark has been throwing its stately shadow across Hill Street since 1914, first as a fancy lodging in the formative years of downtown Los Angeles, then as a last-resort residential hotel for the aged and desperate, then as a vast, lifeless structure between Grand Central Market and Pershing Square (now Biddy Mason Park). The 11-story hotel hadn’t seen a paying guest for more than 30 years.

That is, until now.

Last month, downtown historian Nathan Marsak was at Angels Flight when, as he recalls, “A guy comes up and says, ‘You like the Clark? I just had drinks there.’ And he slaps his receipt down. And I lost my damn mind.”

The lobby inside Hotel Clark.

(Kayla Bartkowski / Los Angeles Times)

Marsak, who admits to “a fetish for old, lost Los Angeles,” once called the Beaux-Arts hotel a “great gray monument to grinding attrition.” Since the 1990s, Marsak has kept watch on the Clark, often labeled a “zombie building” because of its long idleness. Marsak included it in his 2002 book “Los Angeles Neon,” and has looked down upon it from his part-time gig taking tickets atop the Angels Flight Railway on Bunker Hill.

In the downtown community, there had been rumors of a reopening over the years, but that seemed less likely as time went on. Kim Cooper, a close observer of downtown politics and co-owner of Esotouric tours, said that after a while, it seemed that the hotel’s owner, the Chetrit Group, “just locked the door.”

To see that structure “so dilapidated and dirty and covered in bird droppings and decades of grime, it broke my heart,” Marsak said. Still, “as long as they didn’t tear it down, there was always hope.”

A ‘zombie building’ awakes

When he and relatives bought the hotel 27 years ago, owner Michel Attias of the Chetrit Group said people assumed they would flip the building.

“I guess they know by now that’s not the case,” he said. “Many of those people have left town by now.”

Michel Attias at the Hotel Clark.

(Kayla Bartkowski / Los Angeles Times)

Attias stood in the hotel lobby, whose design leans toward gray, black, white, earth tones and chrome. Guest rooms include zebra-print wallpaper and faux alligator-skin panels.

“We wanted chic modern but also comfortable and warm,” said Attias, noting that new artworks and rugs are still arriving. A “luxury sports bar” is due to open by Super Bowl Sunday. As of Oct. 21, general manager Adrienne Craig said, about 120 of its guest rooms were ready to rent, with others soon to follow. Rates start at about $200 nightly.

There have been at least three near-openings during his firm’s ownership, Attias acknowledged. But now, he said, it’s the right moment.

“We have a lot coming,” he said. “We have the Olympics. Downtown is starting to move again. I’m very, very confident that downtown is going to get back on its feet.”

Members of the Chetrit family, based in New York, hold extensive real estate through multiple companies, some of which have suffered legal and financial troubles in the last two years. In Los Angeles, the Chetrit Group also owns the long-idle Trinity Auditorium, also known as the Embassy Auditorium and Embassy Hotel. Also a 1914 Beaux-Arts building, it includes about 180 guest rooms along with an 1,800-seat performance space. Attias said he hopes to open the Trinity Auditorium before the Olympics.

“We’re not done,” Attias said.

Added Craig: “Hotel Clark is amazing. Trinity is out of this world.”

Vintage postcards and photographs are from the collection of historian Nathan Marsak.

(Courtesy of Nathan Marsak)

The Clark’s rise, fall and long slumber

Look closely at the Clark, including the rooftop neon and the old fire escapes with the initials “CH” in ironwork (for Clark Hotel), and you may catch hints of its tangled history, from early opulence to urban decay, international intrigue and municipal dysfunction.

Eli P. Clark made big money as a railway pioneer in Los Angeles and beyond. But by 1914 he had moved on to other investments. He built the Clark Hotel with 555 rooms, each with a private bath (a notable luxury at the time) and a bold sign outside proclaiming its “absolutely fireproof” construction.

The building’s rooftop neon signage was apparently added a few decades later, along with the rounded letters that spell the hotel’s name and run vertically down one corner of the building. Dozens of vintage photos of the Clark’s ballrooms, restaurants, ashtrays, room keys, menus, postcards, matchbooks, coat hangers and candleholders are visible at BunkerHillLos Angeles.com, having been gathered by Marsak.

A mosaic by the pool inside Hotel Clark.

(Kayla Bartkowski / Los Angeles Times)

But somewhere in the middle decades of the 20th century, as investors began to look away from downtown, the Clark hit the skids. In a 1975 classified ad in the L.A. Times, the Clark offered rooms at $75-$95 monthly, including “special waterbed suites.”

By the 1980s, the Clark had become a residence of last resort, housing many seniors and others on limited incomes. The nearby Rosslyn (built in 1914, now a mix of low-income and market-rate apartments) and Hotel Cecil (built 1924, now low-income and supportive housing) followed similar paths.

The pool inside Hotel Clark.

(Kayla Bartkowski / Los Angeles Times)

By 1989, the Clark had been acquired by May Wah International Enterprises, which was rooted in China and associated with the Chinese government, Attias said. May Wah vowed to revamp the building with a “friendship store” to market Chinese imports and hotel above that might rival the Biltmore. But first May Wah wanted the old tenants out. Twenty of them filed suit against May Wah, saying they were subjected to spells without heat or water, and won a $1.7-million settlement. But by 1992, May Wah had succeeded in evicting the last two tenants.

By 1999, when May Wah sold it to the Chetrit family, the building was empty, its historic interiors rearranged in anticipation of the Chinese hotel that never opened. (During this period, Attias said, the building’s guest-room count changed from 555 to 348.) As Attias tells the story, the hotel was close to opening in 2008 when that year’s financial crisis hit. It came close again in 2013-14, when the Chetrit family invested in another renovation but ran into opposition from the hospitality workers union Unite Here Local 11 and L.A. City Councilman José Huizar.

“José Huizar,” said Attias dryly. “We know where he is now.” (Huizar, who served on the city council until 2020, pleaded guilty to corruption charges in 2023 and was sentenced to 13 years in federal prison.)

Though the hotel’s owners eventually got the city permissions they needed, Attias said, a partnership with other hoteliers dissolved and the Clark went to the back burner again, as did the Embassy Auditorium. Another near-opening followed in 2019.

Attias said the family decided in 2025 to finally open the Clark, later retaining OTH Hotels Resorts to manage it.

And now, said Attias, “we’re here.”

‘Nowhere to go but up’

In mid-September, the Clark had begun a quiet, soft reopening. Now configured with 348 guest rooms, it includes a Mediterranean restaurant called Votana; a cocktail lounge; a 17-by-29-foot courtyard pool, poolside bar and (in homage to Chetrit family history) a pair of Moroccan tile fountains.

In addition, a ballroom with space for 600 is due to be completed soon. Craig estimated that the business, a nonunion shop, employs about 100 people now and will likely reach 200 workers in coming months.

A guest room inside Hotel Clark.

(Kayla Bartkowski / Los Angeles Times)

This rebirth may not comfort those seeking more affordable housing downtown, but for anyone eager to see more legal commerce on Hill Street or more hotel rooms in the run-up to the 2028 Games, it’s progress. This boost in room supply may also encourage travelers who have seen downtown hotel rates jump by more than 10% in the last year. Analytics company CoStar reports that downtown hotels averaged $200-$210 per night from June through September.

“There’s nowhere to go but up,” Craig said. “The possibilities here are endless.”

A few weeks ago, Craig’s team gave Marsak a tour of building (and bought a batch of Angels Flight tickets to distribute among guests. The historian declared himself mostly delighted.

“Having the Clark open, facing Hill Street — which can get rough — is so brave of them,” said Marsak. “I can’t applaud it enough.”

As for the inside and that zebra-print wallpaper, it’s “not what I would have done,” he said. “I believe that Beaux-Arts buildings should be Beaux-Arts inside and out. But you can’t have everything.”

ARE you racking your brain for new ways to entertain the kids this half term, especially given the unpredictable weather?

Do not fear – here we’ve collated a full list of some of England’s best attractions in EVERY county in the UK, from walks in the rolling countryside, to electrifying museum exhibitions, donkey sanctuaries and even a tour of an enormous board game collection.

Bedfordshire

Stockford Discovery Centre, Luton

Discover charming gardens, engaging interactive exhibitions and one of Europe’s largest carriage collections.

Dunstable Downs, Dunstable

Soak in the stunning views of the Dunstable Downs, lovingly sculpted by nature over hundreds of years. Miles of circular walks and beautiful nature make it the spot for an afternoon amble.

Berkshire

Reading Museum, Reading

Learn all about Reading’s fascinating history by exploring an assortment of exhibitions, with everything from biscuit tins to beetles, Romans and Rodin. The museum also boasts it’s very own version of the Bayeux Tapestry – painstakingly recreated in full by Victorian embroiderers, and a great option if you’ve not been able to get tickets for the sell-out British Museum exhibition.

The Museum of English Rural Life, Reading

With nine distinct themed galleries, the museum walks you around the most comprehensive collection of rural artefacts ranging from huge steam trains to ancient farming tools.

Bristol

Banksy free walking tour, Bristol

Bristol is the hometown of the street artist Banksy. Take a self-guided tour through the artist’s very own stomping ground and admire some of his most famous works.

M Shed Museum, Bristol

The 1950s transit shed, originally called M Shed offers visitors a whistlestop tour of the city’s history.

Buckinghamshire

Wycombe Museum (the chair museum), High Wycombe

Quaint grounds holding a collection of local art and furniture from the 17th to the 21st centuries.

Coombe Hill, Dunsmore

Walk from the town base up to the prominent monument for panoramic views across the Chiltern Hills.

Cambridgeshire

The Fitzwilliam Museum, Cambridge

View huge collections of global antiquities, master paintings, pottery and a sprawling number of historical artefacts.

The Museum of Zoology, Cambridge

Enjoy wandering through the vast array of animal specimens, skeletons, fossils, and taxidermy, as well as several exciting educational displays.

Cheshire

Cheshire Story House, Cheshire

More than just a theatre, this beloved venue on Hunter Street offers free family craft sessions run every weekend.

Walk the city walls, Cheshire

Bring a brolly and good set of waterproofs and set off scaling Cheshire’s historic city walls, which includes two miles of Roman gates, medieval towers and stunning views across the city and Welsh hills.

City of London

The British Museum, Great Russell Street

The UK’s biggest museum, with the world’s largest collection of works – eight million pieces exploring human history, art, and culture. 

The Natural History Museum, South Kensington

One of the UK’s most popular museums with 80 million items, including the famous blue whale skeleton.

Cornwall

Falmouth Art Gallery, Falmouth

View a rotating fine art collection and family exhibitions inside the municipal buildings.

Healeys Cornish Cyder Farm, Penhallow

Visitors can access farm animal areas, historic farming equipment, jam kitchens, and even enjoy some free tasting sessions.

Cumbria

Kendal Castle, Kendal

Bring the dog and pack a picnic to enjoy a scenic stroll around Kendal Castle ruins with stunning views of the town.

Cookhouse Gallery, Windermere

A family run gallery with a wide selection of gorgeous paintings inspired by the local natural beauty.

Derbyshire

Derby Museum and Art Gallery, Derby

Home to the world’s largest collection of works by Joseph Wright of Derby, it features a range of historic artefacts and stunning artworks.

Pickford’s House, Derby 

Pickford’s House is located in a Georgian townhouse and features exhibitions of domestic life from the 18th to 20th centuries.

Devon

Royal Albert Memorial Museum and Art Gallery, Exeter

Explore free galleries covering local history, natural history, world cultures, and an Egyptian tomb.

The Donkey Sanctuary, Sidmouth

Enjoy cuddling the 500 donkeys and mules looked after by cheerful charity workers.

Dorset

Tyneham Village, Wareham

Amble through the abandoned village of Tyneham, which was evacuated in December 1943 during WWII and still looks the same as it did 80 years ago.

Gold Hill, Shaftesbury

Walk down the iconic steep cobbled street featured in the Hovis advert. Enjoy incredible views of the sloping countryside, as well as the village’s quaint shops and cafes.

County Durham

Durham University Oriental Museum, Durham

Discover extensive art and archaeology collections from North Africa and Asia.

Locomotion Rail Museum, Shildon

Home to Europe’s largest undercover collection of historic rail vehicles.

East Riding of Yorkshire

Arctic Corsair, Hull 

Dive into Hull’s deep-sea fishing industry at this museum that includes a historic deep-sea trawler built in 1960.

Ferens Art Gallery, Hull 

A fine art collection with everything from Viking swords and Roman mosaics to a full-sized Woolly Mammoth.

East Sussex

The Laines, Brighton

Wander the historic laines of Brighton, with winding cobbled streets that lead to endless jewellers and quaint trinket shops.

Hastings Fishermen’s Museum

A small but mighty museum exploring the history of Hastings‘ fishing industry, featuring boats, videos, and a small shop.

Essex

Clacton Pier, Clacton-on-sea

Europe’s largest pleasure pier has something for all ages, from exhilarating rides to mountains of arcade machines and gorgeous sea views.

Pets Corner, Harlow

Pet, stroke and feed the animals at pets corner, with dozens of farmyard friends and even some exotic extras.

Gloucestershire

The Museum of Board Games, Newent

Explore the unique museum’s 600 collection spanning the 19th century through the mid 20th century, including early linen-printed history boards and 1950s TV-themed games.

Forest of Dean Sculpture Trail

Enjoy a 4.5-mile stroll through beautiful forest, stopping to enjoy the spectacle of woodland sculptures.

Greater London

Myddelton House Gardens, Enfield 

Former home and gardens of the horticulturist, Edward Bowles. 

William Morris Gallery, London 

Step inside the famous textile designer’s former home and learn about his influence on the design industry.

Greater Manchester

Museum of Science and Industry, Manchester

Home to 250 years of innovations across science and technology, as well as UK’s oldest surviving train station.

People’s History Museum, Manchester 

Learn about the history of the working class in the UK, with displays on the Peterloo Massacre and the women’s suffrage movement. 

Hampshire

New Forest National Park

Walk or cycle through the magical New Forest countryside. Pause to watch the friendly free-roaming ponies and spot the cattle and deer munching away in the meadows.

Fort Nelson, Fareham

Explore the huge Victorian fort and view over 700 artillery pieces with free admission via the Royal Armouries.

Herefordshire

The Cat’s Back trail, Craswall

Take a dramatic ridge walk along the border for stunning valley views.

Longtown Castle, Hereford

Explore the overgrown medieval ruins and clamber over rugged stone walls.

Hertfordshire

Natural History Museum of Tring

Enjoy quirky Victorian zoological collections and fossils. The museum houses one of the finest collections of mammals, birds, reptiles and insects in the UK.

North Hertfordshire Museum, Hitchin 

Take in a delightful selection of local history galleries and art, including a woolly mammoth tusk to a pair of Stanley Matthews’s football boots.

Isle of Wight

Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary, Ventnor

Home to rescued donkeys and ponies, a great day out for animal lovers. Visitors can relax afterwards at the cafe or enjoy browsing the gift shop packed with pony-themed trinkets.

The Isle of Wight Bus & Coach Museum, Ryde

Enjoy free entry and browse and climb aboard vintage buses and coaches. The museum is home to impressive collection of Island buses and coaches dating from 1927 to modern day models.

Kent

Maidstone Museum, Maidstone

Collection of more than 600,000 artefacts and specimens, exploring fine art, human history, and textiles.

The Beaney House of Art & Knowledge, Canterbury

Housed in a Grade II listed building, the museum is home to some of Canterbury’s best artworks.

Lancashire

Harris Museum and Art Gallery, Preston 

Discover art, culture, and history, with displays on printed textiles, the remains of an elk, and glassblown scent bottles. 

Samlesbury Hall, Samlesbury 

A stately home dating back to 1185 with a cafe, shepherd huts and UK’s first wafflery.

Leicestershire

New Walk Museum and Art Gallery, Leicester 

Displays include a 15-metre Rutland Dinosaur and stories about Leicester’s achievements and obstacles.

Newarke Houses Museum, Leicester 

Built in 1511, with exhibits on the Leicestershire Regiment and Tudor objects.

Lincolnshire

Lincoln Museum and Usher Gallery, Lincolnshire 

Showcases everything from artefacts from the Stone, Bronze and Iron Ages, to works by Turner, as well as forensic processes of the Anglo Saxons. 

Museum of Lincolnshire Life, Lincolnshire 

Home to 250,000 items dating back to 1750, including a World War I tank, as well as a museum trail and playground for kids.

Merseyside

Victoria Gallery and Museum, Liverpool 

Uncover artworks across different eras, including archaeological items and oceanography displays. 

Walker Art Gallery, Liverpool

National gallery of the North, with paintings and sculptures from Rembrandt, David Hockney and Rodin.

Norfolk

Crabbing in Wells

Grab a pack of bacon and your crabbing gear and set up camp at Wells’s famous crabbing quay.

Norwich Cathedral

Explore the 44-acre close and join free hourly guided tours from Monday to Saturday.

North Yorkshire

Dorman Museum, Middlesbrough

Discover the town’s history with dinosaur installations and a slice of meteorite from space.

Northamptonshire

Northampton Museum and Art Gallery, Northampton

Tour the quaint museum’s fascinating array of displays, including its shoe collection, fine and decorative art and local heritage artefacts.

Wellingborough Museum, Wellingborough

Traverse through Wellingborough’s local social history. Includes artifacts and rotating family-friendly community exhibits inside a distinctive Victorian building.

Northumberland

The Grace Darling Museum, Bamburgh 

A unique museum that teaches visitors about the life of Victorian Britain’s greatest heroine, Grace Darling, who risked her life to rescue nine survivors from the wrecked SS Forfarshire in 1838.

Hardian’s Wall, Brampton 

Explore one of England’s national treasures, Hadrian’s Wall, the most heavily fortified and best-preserved land frontier of the ancient Roman Empire.

Nottinghamshire

Sherwood Forest, Mansfield

Wander the forest once home to Robin Hood and discover the history of the legend of the archer and his Merry Men who stole from the rich to give to the poor.

Green’s Windmill and Science Centre, Nottingham

Climb a working 19th-century windmill and explore interactive science exhibits dedicated to mathematical physicist George Green.

Oxfordshire

Ashmolean Museum, Oxford

The world’s first university museum, featuring vast art and archaeology collections opened in 1683 thanks to gifts from Elias Ashmole.

Pitt Rivers Museum, Oxford

Famous for its dense Victorian-style cabinets filled with global anthropological and archaeological artifacts. Connected to Oxford’s Museum of Natural History, which is also free.

Rutland

Rutland County Museum, Rutland

More than just your run-of-the-mill museum, Rutland offers interactive family-friendly exhibits like an AR iSandBox and a Jurassic Sea Dragon virtual reality experience.

Oakham Castle, Oakham

Travel through time as you explore the 12th-century Norman Great Hall in famous for its unique collection of more than 200 ceremonial horseshoes, and plenty more historic gems.

Shropshire

The British Ironwork Museum, Oswestry

Home to a selection of sculptures, awe-inspiring artworks, and stunning trial walks. Offers free entry during off-peak periods, such as Tuesdays to Fridays during September to February.

Shrewsbury Museum & Art Gallery, Shrewsbury

Set in a Victorian music hall, Shrewsbury museum features local and international artefacts and art.

Somerset

The Museum of Somerset, Taunton 

Explore 400 million years of Taunton’s history across nine galleries, including an 80,000-year-old Banwell Bear Ice Age skull

Visit Cheddar Gorge

Explore the nation’s biggest gorge on foot, enjoying dramatic limestone cliffs and hiking trails.

South Yorkshire

Kelham Island Museum, Sheffield 

Learn about life in Victorian-era Sheffield, with artefacts including a 1760’s chocolate pot and Metrovick milk float.

Millennium Gallery, Sheffield 

All things art and design in Sheffield, including one of the finest collections of metalwork in the world. 

Staffordshire

Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum, Lichfield 

Learn about the first lexicographer Samuel Johnson, who created A Dictionary of the English Language.

Stafford Castle, Stafford 

Step back to 1100 AD with archaeological artefacts and learn about the history of the castle.

Suffolk

Christchurch Mansion, Ipswich 

Tudor brick mansion featuring collection of items from the Tudor period including clothing, children’s toys, and musical instruments. 

Nowton Park, Bury St Edmunds

A 200-acre park featuring a maze, a totem pole, wildflower meadows, and a large arboretum.

Surrey

Mercedes-Benz World

See up to 100 rare and exotic cars up close, while also stopping to absorb the electric atmosphere from the track.

Guildford House Gallery

Browse free rotating art displays and local craft exhibitions, including  antique furniture, fine plaster ceilings, a unique painted closet. 

Tyne and Wear

South Shields Museum and Art Gallery, South Shields 

Discover the history of South Tyneside inside this historic building with a Victorian tea room, served by costumed staff.

OuseBurn Farm, Newcastle upon Tyne 

Located in the heart of Newcastle, the working city farm includes animals, gardens, fields for strolls, and a sensory trail.

Warwickshire

St Nicholas’s Park, Warwick

Parked next to Warwick Castle, the iconic park offers large open green spaces, a great children’s playground, and scenic riverside walks.

Rugby Art Gallery and Museum

Explore a mix of local history and contemporary art. The museum and gallery is home to 220 pieces of 20th-century and contemporary British art and interaction displays of Roman artefacts.

West Midlands

National Memorial Arboretum, Alrewas 

British site of national remembrance with over 400 memorials and 25,000 trees. 

Aston Hall, Birmingham 

Grade I-listed Jacobean house with a beautiful public park, as well as collections from the Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery. 

West Sussex

Petworth Park, Petworth

Explore 700 acres of free landscaped parkland and spot its historic herd of fallow deer.

Chichester Cathedral

Step inside the 950-year-old landmark and soak in the history, but don’t forget to look out for the resident peregrine falcons.

West Yorkshire

Royal Armouries, Leeds

Historic weaponry and armour, from Japanese samurai swords to modern warfare including Henry VIII’s armour.

Bolling Hall Museum, Bradford 

Learn about the lives of the families that lived in Bolling Hall over different time periods. 

Wiltshire

Longleat House, Warminster 

Explore an Elizabethan manor house with 900 acres of parkland. It features featuring fine art, period furnishings, and 19th-century Crace interiors.

Avebury Stone Circle, Marlborough

Explore the famous standing stone monument and 17th-century stables housing a museum to the iconic monument.

Worcestershire

Malvern Hills

Wander iconic hills, famous for being home to fresh spring water, and enjoy panoramic views of the sloping countryside.

Worcester City Art Gallery and Museum, Worcester

Enjoy local-history displays, fine art and relics in a Victorian-era brick building with gift shop and cafe.

FANCY travelling through Europe in the comfort of your own private cabin rather than a cramped plane? This new sleeper train might be the answer.

Nox Mobility is launching next year as an alternative to short-haul flights – and they’re pretty cheap too.

The sleeper train will launch in March next year with its first journey between Hamburg and Munich with stops in Bremen and Augsburg.

The inaugural run will leave Hamburg at 9.22pm and arrive at 8.14am – there will go in each direction three times per week.

Tickets are affordable too with one-way fares starting from €65 (£55).

Rather than regular train carriages, inside will be Nox Suites – a private area for each passenger with a seat that opens into a lounge to work or unwind.

HAPPY HOLLY-DAYS

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Inside is also a two-metre-long bed, storage, charging ports and a window to gaze out of.

There’s also no restaurant carriage on Nox Mobility, however you can pre-order meals to be served in your cabin and breakfast is available as an optional add-on.

On Nox, children under the age of four are allowed to travel for free with an adult passenger. 

It also teased future rooms which are actually private cabins.

The Single Loft has a seat and desk for the day with a bed for during the night.

The Double Loft is the most spacious room with a 170cm wide bed, two seats and a panoramic window to take in the views.

The Double Vista has ‘two seats by day and two beds by night’ in a private room with a full window.

It also hopes to launch more journeys later on to cities like Stockholm, Vienna, Amsterdam, Toulouse, Barcelona all the way to Reggio di Calabria in Italy.

In fact by 2035 it aims to connect 100 European cities.

Thibault Constant, co-founder of Nox said: “Sleeping while a train gets you across Europe is a great concept. But today people have to share their cabins with strangers, beds are tight, and it’s often more expensive than air travel.

“We want to change that and make night trains an essential part of European travel.”

THERE are waterparks all over the world, but this one has just been crowned one of the best – and it’s just hours from the UK.

Aquashow Water Park in Portugal has been crowned Europe’s Leading Water Park 2026 at the World Travel Awards.

The waterpark has a huge seasonal outdoor pool complex which will reopen in May 2027.

It has a splash park called Aqualandia with slides and tipping buckets for little ones – but there’s plenty of high thrills rides too.

The Flash Coaster is one of the biggest rides in the park and it’s quick too at 62mph.

There are also racing slides, flumes, a wave pool and for those brave enough, try out Free Fall.

HAPPY HOLLY-DAYS

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It’s the biggest free fall jump in Europe and the only one in the Algarve; there are two slides, each 32 metres high and 129 metres long.

Outside are food stalls serving up burgers, hot dogs, salads, sandwiches, ice cream, pastries and drinks.

Outdoor waterpark tickets for those between 11-64 range from €34 – €38 (£29-£32), junior and senior tickets start from €25 (£21).

When it’s the off-season and it’s a little cooler in the Algarve, make the most of the indoor pools.

There are different kinds to choose from including its wave pool, children’s pool, relax pool and spa.

Then there’s the adventure pool with a climbing wall and a circuit of suspended rings over the water.

Adventure Island is where kids can splash about with smaller slides, and water features.

There are also larger and faster flumes and racing slides too.

It’s not all water activities, the Sky Challenge is a high-ropes course, and there’s an indoor playground with soft play, trampolines and climbing walls.

Tickets for a three- hour sessions at the indoor waterpark start from €25 (£21) for children between 6-12. For adults aged 13-64 tickets are €35 (£29).

For anyone wanting to visit, the waterpark has its own on-site hotel – all its rooms have air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and free Wi-Fi.

You’ll also find a restaurant, bar and outdoor terrace.

A family of up to six can stay for two nights at the hotel from €884.75 (£740) including breakfast.

The hotel is 2.5 miles from the Quarteira resort centre, where you’ll find shops and restaurants – the nearest beach is about 2.7 miles away.

For more on the World Travel Awards, this theme park with no rides or rollercoasters was named the best in Europe.

And these are the world’s best hotels from beachfront island resorts to mega theme park stays, and there are two in the UK.

Bath and Bristol
Dyrham Park
Avebury 

Birmingham and West Midlands
Wightwick Manor Gardens
Clent Hills
Coventry Charterhouse

Cambridgeshire
Peckover House and Garden – closed on Sunday 25th, reopens Monday 26th

Cornwall
Lanhyrdrock
Trelissick – also closed on Saturday 24th
Cotehele
Godolphin – also closed on Saturday 24th
Trerice – also closed on Saturday 24th
Trengwainton – also closed on Saturday 24th, Sunday 25th and Monday 26th
Glendurgan Garden – closed until Saturday 24th
Pentire – cafe and toilets are closed today

Devon
Killerton – The Parkland, Garden, Chapel and Chapel Grounds are closed today. The house, cafés and shop are open.
Arlington Court and the National Trust Carriage Museum – also closed on Saturday 24th
Castle Drogo 
Knightshayes
Coleton Fishacre
Saltram
Buckland Abbey – also closed on Saturday 24th
Greenway
Lydford Gorge
A la Ronde
Finch Foundry

Dorset
Kingston Lacy – The Woodland Walk is closed but the house, garden, shop and cafe are open. The Pikachu Art Adventure Trail will be affected by the woodland closure. 
Corfe Castle
Brownsea Island – also closed on Saturday 24th

Essex, Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire
Hatfield Forest
Paycocke’s House and Garden – also closed on Sunday 25th

Gloucestershire and the Cotswalds 
Hidcote
Woodchester Park – the Trust10 is also cancelled on Sunday 25th
Snowshill Manor and Garden

Hampshire
Mottisfont
The Vyne
Hinton Ampner
Sandham Memorial Chapel

Lake District
Hill Top and Hawkshead – closed on Sunday 25th
Aira Force and Gowbarrow Park – closed on Sunday 25th
Historic Steam Yacht Gondola- Sailing is cancelled on Saturday 24th

Leicestershire and Northamptonshire
Lyveden

Liverpool and Lancashire
Speke Hall – also closed on Saturday 24th and Sunday 25th

London
Ham House and Garden
Osterley Park and House
Morden Hall Park – also closed on Saturday 24th, Sunday 25th and Monday 26th
Runnymede and Ankerwycke

North East
Wallington – closed until 11am on Monday 26th

Oxfordshire 
Stowe Gardens – the gardens are closed but New Inn, including the café and shop, are open. 
Hughenden
Basildon Park
Cliveden

The Peak District and Derbyshire
Kedleston Hall – closed from 3pm today. The hall is open 11am to 4pm daily with last entry at 3.15pm

Shropshire and Staffordshire – 
Attingham Park – The Mile Walk, Walled Garden, Field of Play and Deer Park are closed but the Mansion and Stables (cafe, shop, bookshop) are open
Ironbridge Gorge – The Miners walk, Canal Side and the Adventure Playground are closed and will reopen on Monday 26th. All other areas remain open as normal
Shugborough Estate
Wightwick Manor and Gardens
Dudmaston Estate Comer Woods – The Cafe In Comer and visitor facilities are closed

Somerset 
Montacute House
Dunster Castle and Watermill
Barrington Court
Lytes Cary Manor
Fyne Court – also closed on Saturday 24th
Prior Park Landscape Garden
Brean Down

Suffolk
Sutton Hoo – closing at 4pm on Friday 23, Saturday 24 and Sunday 25 October. Tales by Torchlight is cancelled on 23 and 24. Ticket holders have been contacted via email and will be automatically refunded. 
Flatford

Surrey
Polesden Lacey 
Hatchlands Park
Winkworth Arboretum
Box Hill
Claremont Landscape Garden
Runnymede and Ankerwycke

Sussex
Nymans
Sheffield Park and Garden
Petworth
Bodiam Castle
Standen House and Garden
Bateman’s
Birling Gap and the Seven Sisters – Café, Shop & toilets will be closed on Friday 23rd October
Alfriston Clergy House – closed from 3.30pm today
Monk’s House

Warwickshire 
Charlecote Park – some areas closed but The House, Wood Yard Cafe and Service Courtyard all remain open
Packwood House – The Mystical and Magical Woodland Trail is closed and other partial closures are in place across the site
Baddesley Clinton – some areas of the site are partially closed
Upton House and Gardens
Coventry Charterhouse – The garden is closed all day but the house and café remain open

Wiltshire
Stourhead
Mompesson House
The Courts Garden

Worcestshire and Herefordshire

Berrington Hall
Brockhampton
Croft Castle and Parkland
The Weir Garden
Croome
Hanbury Hall
Tyntesfield

Yorkshrie
Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden – Fountains by Floodlight is cancelled on Saturday evening and the whole estate will be closed on Sunday 25th
Goddards – closed on Saturday 24th and Sunday 25th
Treasurer’s House, York – the gardens at Treasurer’s House will be closed on Saturday 24th and Sunday 25th. The house will remain open as usual, by guided tour only

HM Passport Office is reminding people of the rule

HM Passport Office has moved to explain a two-year rule some people may not know about.

Whether you’re applying for a new passport for a child or an adult, it’s likely you’ll need someone to confirm your identity. This is also the case if you’re replacing a lost, stolen, or damaged passport, renewing a child’s passport, or if your appearance has changed significantly. In a new alert on X, formerly Twitter, HMPO moved to explain the rules for ‘referees’.

Part of the post clarifies that “a referee must have known the person applying for at least 2 years and confirm their identity”. Additional guidance on GOV.UK outlines who is eligible to verify a person’s identity.

To qualify, a referee must be 18 years of age or older, reside in the UK, and currently hold a British or Irish passport. They must also have been acquainted with the applicant for a minimum of two years (this refers to the adult submitting the application if the passport is for a child under 16), and must know the applicant as a friend, neighbour or colleague, rather than someone they know purely in a professional capacity.

Referees must also be employed in, or retired from, a “recognised profession”. These include:

• accountant
• airline pilot
• articled clerk of a limited company
• assurance agent of recognised company
• bank or building society official
• barrister
• chairman or director of a limited company
• chiropodist
• commissioner for oaths
• councillor, for example local or county
• civil servant (permanent)
• dentist
• director, manager or personnel officer of a VAT-registered company
• engineer with professional qualifications
• financial services intermediary, for example a stockbroker or insurance broker
• fire service official
• funeral director
• insurance agent (full time) of a recognised company
• journalist
• Justice of the Peace
• legal secretary (fellow or associate member of the Institute of Legal Secretaries and PAs)
• licensee of a public house
• local government officer
• manager or personnel officer of a limited company
• member, associate or fellow of a professional body
• Member of Parliament
• Merchant Navy officer
• minister of a recognised religion (including Christian Science)
• nurse (RGN or RMN)
• officer of the armed services
• optician
• paralegal (certified paralegal, qualified paralegal or associate member of the Institute of Paralegals)
• person with honours, for example an OBE or MBE
• pharmacist
• photographer (professional)
• police officer
• Post Office official
• president or secretary of a recognised organisation
• Salvation Army officer
• social worker
• solicitor
• surveyor
• teacher or lecturer
• trade union officer
• travel agent (qualified)
• valuer or auctioneer (fellow or associate members of the incorporated society)
• Warrant Officers and Chief Petty Officers

You cannot confirm someone’s identity if:

• you’re related by birth or marriage
• you’re in a relationship with them or live together
• you work for HM Passport Office
• you work for UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) on British citizenship or right of abode applications
• you’re a doctor – unless you know the person who has asked you well (for example, you’re a good friend)

The Sleep Charity and Premier Inn share expert tips to help children sleep easily in unfamiliar environments this half term, keeping their bedtime routines smooth while away from home.

It can be tricky to get your little ones off to sleep when they’re away from home. Staying over in a new environment is exciting, but it’s also a change from their nightly routine, and that can make it difficult for them to drift off. So, we decided to ask the experts!

Here, The Sleep Charity – in partnership with Premier Inn – have given some top bedtime tips to help kids nod off in no time, wherever they are. As a charity that works extensively with families, they know the importance of a great night’s sleep.

Favourite teddy: Kids will always want something familiar in a new environment, so be sure to pack their favourite toy or blanket to help them feel comfortable and at home.

Bedtime routine: Although you won’t be able to do everything like you would at home, try to include an element of your usual routine, such as reading a bedtime story.

Colouring in: Fine motor skill activities help kids relax, so take advantage of the colouring packs in hotel restaurants like to get a head-start on bedtime!

No TV: Screens interfere with the production of melatonin, a hormone that makes us sleepy. Switching off the TV an hour before bedtime can really help little ones nod off.

Bath time: A warm bath 30 minutes before bedtime can be very effective in helping kids wind down and getting them off to sleep.

Repetition: Staying away from home is exciting for kids, so you’ll need to be clear and firm with them when it’s time for bed. Try a calming phrase like ‘It’s night-time, go to sleep’ and repeat it.

Dim the lights: Switch off a few lights and make use of the Premier Inn blackout curtains to help with that all-important melatonin production.

Mealtimes: Plan your dinner time! Try not to eat so early that the kids are hungry by bedtime or so late that they’re uncomfortably full.

Avoid stimulants: Caffeine and sugar play havoc with sleep so in the evenings, try to steer little ones away from sugary desserts and opt for fruit and water instead.

*From breakfast to dinner, kids eat free at Premier Inn this autumn with a paying adult. Choose from over 600 hotel locations across the UK. Little ones can enjoy delicious and nutritious dishes like our 10-Veg Tomato Pasta and Oven Baked Poppin’ Chicken – and sweet treats like a Fresh Fruit Salad, Pancakes and more.

Valid at selected Premier Inn restaurants until 1st November, for participating restaurants see HERE

IT might seem too early to think about the New Year, but if you want to ring in 2027 with style, you’ll need to act fast.

Tickets for the spectacular London firework display go on sale today – and they’re bound to sell out quickly.

Tickets for the show will be released in two batches with the first on sale midday today.

Tickets are priced between £20 to £55 (excluding the booking fee) and one person can buy up to four tickets.

The price of tickets depends on the viewing area which is split into different categories.

The category A viewing area includes places like Waterloo Bridge and Westminster Bridge – these tickets are priced at £55.

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Meanwhile, Category B is priced at £40, with spots like behind the London Eye and the stretch of Victoria Embankment from Golden Jubilee Footbridge to Temple Avenue.

It also includes accessible areas which is on Albert Embankment.

Anyone who has a London postcode is in luck as locals get a £20 discount. 

Last year around 100,000 ticketholders attended the event and around 10million people watched on TV.

If you miss out on the first batch of tickets, a second lot will be released later on.

However a date for this hasn’t been announced yet.

For more information and to buy tickets, head here.

What’s it like to go to London’s NYE fireworks?

Travel Reporter Cyann Fielding reveals that the evening has in store…

“Key advice? Be prepared.

“Get your group chat organised now – you can buy up to four tickets each, so if you want more you’ll need a few people online.

“And whatever you do, do not refresh the page – you will lose your place in the queue.

“The NYE fireworks for 2023 were my first and I can’t deny I was impressed.

“There were also no queues and no crowds once in the zone, allowing us to secure a great spot to watch the breathtaking 12-minute display.

“If going, definitely opt for one of the Category A zones – these have the best views of the fireworks, whereas the Category B zones are often interrupted by skyscrapers.

“Make sure you do head there for 8pm as it isn’t the only New Year’s event on, which means the tube is often packed.

“And bear in mind, the station closest to your gate may be closed to manage the flows of people better.

“As for what to wear, you will get warm but do make sure you have layers as the breeze from the river is chilling.

“Don’t worry about taking a chair – you’ll dance as you wait.

“To save some money though, do take some tinnys – small cocktail cans are great as they don’t weigh much or take up too much room in a bag.

“If you get hungry, there are plenty of food stalls around.”

ONE UK theme park has announced it will close early today as Storm Austen hits the country with winds up to 80mph.

Paultons Park which has been hosting late-night Halloween evenings will close early tonight.

On its website, it said: “Because of the forecast conditions from Storm Austen, we’ve cancelled tonight’s late night opening. The park will close at 4:30pm today.

“The safety of our guests and team always comes first, and we’re sorry for any disappointment.”

For those visiting today, tickets will be revalidated so you can come back another day.

Anyone who is booking to attend today but wants to change the day can do so free of charge.

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Anyone on a short break will receive a return ticket and those with an annual pass can attend until 4.30pm.

At the Halloween Spooktacular visitors can go on the rides after dark, head to The Little Monsters Ball and go to the Spirit Squad Ghoul School.

For those who still want to go, the late-night events will still run on October 24, 27, 28 and 29.

Camel Creek Family Adventure Park in Wadebridge which is popular with younger families has also announced its closure due to “forecast of strong winds and heavy rain.”

The park will be in touch with those who have already booked a visit.

It hasn’t guaranteed that it will reopen on Saturday so has advised families to watch for updates on its social media and website for updates.

Meanwhile, Thorpe Park is open as is Alton Towers.

At Chessington World of Adventure, the Zufari appears closed on the app and there’s a temporary delay of the opening of Jungle Rangers.

A spokesperson for all three theme parks said that they are open and operating ‘in line with standard weather safety procedures’.

They added that ride availability can vary throughout the ‘day depending on operational and weather conditions, and any temporary closures are assessed by our expert technical teams on a case-by-case basis’.

Marwell Zoo has closed its doors for the day, it said: “The zoo will be closed due to strong winds and heavy rain forecast. We aim to reopen on Saturday 24^th Oct as normal.”

Chester Zoo also announced its closure in order to keep “visitors, animals and staff as safe.” Dartmoor Zoo is also closed.

Storm Austen which has hit the UK today has resulted in schools closed and flights cancelled with the Met Office issuing amber and yellow weather warnings.

When William Jackson Harper moved to Los Angeles to star in NBC’s “The Good Place” a decade ago, he himself felt out of place.

“As an actor, I was like I don’t know if this is where I’m supposed to be,” says Harper, who earned an Emmy nomination for his role as Chidi Anagonye, the show’s endearingly panicked and indecisive professor.

In Sunday Funday, L.A. people give us a play-by-play of their ideal Sunday around town. Find ideas and inspiration on where to go, what to eat and how to enjoy life on the weekends.

“People felt more finished there,” he says of L.A. “I felt like people had sort of come into their appearance, they knew what they were selling. And I was like, you know, I’m much more of a theater guy, New York is probably where I’m going to land.”

He adds, “So I had this idea that I was going to get to L.A. and everyone was just going to laugh at me.”

Quite the opposite happened. Harper leaned into the L.A. experience, exploring the sprawling city, particularly its nature, and connecting with old friends on a deeper level. He soon grew to appreciate it — so much that he continues to split his time between L.A. and New York alongside his wife, Ali Ahn, who is also an actor.

Harper now stars in the dramatic anthology series “American Hostage,” which re-creates the true story of Tony Kiritsis, an Indianapolis man who, in 1977, kidnapped a mortgage broker whose family Kiritsis blamed for his own financial hardships. During a 63-hour standoff, Kiritsis demands that Fred Heckman, a beloved radio reporter played by Jon Hamm, interview him live on air.

“When that script came across my desk, I was like ‘This is insane,’” Harper says of the show, now streaming on MGM+. He was excited to portray Ben Hairston, a reporter and Heckman’s mentee, who attempts to help him navigate the challenging situation.

Harper says he’d been interested in being part of the show set in the late 1970s. Another draw? “I was looking forward to just rocking a mustache,” he says with a laugh. “I was looking forward to just looking like my uncles.”

Here’s how Harper would spend his perfect Sunday in L.A., from a morning hike at Griffith Park to shopping for more French tour jackets at a vintage store in Silver Lake.

7 a.m.: Start with an intense workout

Even though I typically don’t work out on Sundays, sometimes I get a wild hair and do it anyway because I enjoy it. I’ll go to a class around 7 or 8 a.m. I go to Training Mate a lot because the instructors are fun. They’re all, like, beautiful people, but they are dorks, which I find really endearing. They’re really sweet and encouraging. So we’ll do a really tough 45-minute workout an I’ll probably want to go for a hike after that. Griffith Park is one of my favorite places anywhere, so I’d kind of march around there for a couple of hours. I don’t always do the hard [route], I’m already kind of cooked. I just want to be in nature a little bit.

11 a.m.: Bond with friends over breakfast

Then it would be time to eat. I have this tradition whenever I’m in L.A. of meeting with a couple of friends of ours at Fred 62 on Vermont [Avenue]. I’ll get a tofu breakfast enchilada and then we’ll just sit there and talk for a couple of hours. The waiters remember my order even if it’s been months. Or my friends and I will go to some place like All Time, which is really good. There’s always a line and everyone is very done up and I feel really dirty and underdressed when I go, but f— it. It’s like deal with it. I’m old. I can’t be out here flexing.

2 p.m.: Nap to recharge for a shopping spree

All those things make for a powerful wave of sleepiness, so I’ll take a nap. Usually when I have days off like this, I have a shopping addiction, so there’s a few stores that I’ll probably wind up hitting. One of them is this place called Golden Age that has all these old French tour jackets. I have so many [laughs]. I rock those a lot. So I’ll go there, look around and abuse my bank account a little bit. Then there’s this other place on La Brea called General Quarters. It’s got a bunch of work wear stuff.

6 p.m.: Watch a movie at an old-school theater

After that, I might go see a movie at Los Feliz 3. It just reminds me of the movie theaters I grew up going to. I love an old-school, no frills theater that shows cool stuff.

8:30 p.m.: Have a delicious pescatarian dinner

If we are not cooking, we’re going out to eat somewhere. There’s this place in Eagle Rock that we like a lot called Little Beast. One of my favorite restaurants is Bavel. Every time I go there, I’m just like I don’t deserve this meal. I don’t deserve these cocktails. I’ve ordered something different every time. My wife and I are both pescatarian, so we usually load up on the veggies and pick whatever fish dish they have.

10:30 p.m.: Time for bed

After that, we’ll go back home, give our dog Chico another walk and watch Netflix until we fall asleep. My wife falls asleep first. When we are together, I’ll fall asleep earlier between like 11 p.m. and midnight. When I’m by myself, I’m up till 2 or 3 in the morning. I’m just up.

Theme parks attractions are never really finished, especially those intended to be built to last. And so it is with Disneyland’s Indiana Jones Adventure, which officially reopens Friday after a six-week refurbishment. The ride is looking as fresh as it has in years. There were minor changes — more large spiders and other creepy critters were added to one foreboding tunnel — but also some substantial ones designed to increase the attraction’s capacity and reliability.

While some ride refurbishment closures result in very noticeable changes to the guest — for instance, the recent addition of a face-shifting buccaneer on Pirates of the Caribbean, or the temple-shattering projections that were added to Indiana Jones Adventure back in 2023 — other updates are less visible yet enhance the experience, such as helping to eliminate downtime.

That is the case for Indiana Jones Adventure. Behind-the-scenes engineering modifications over the last year have boosted not only the attraction’s reliability, but allowed its capacity to increase by about 125 people per hour. Ultimately, that allows for about 1,000 more guests per day, says Nicholas DiBernardo, an area manager for Attractions Engineering Services and eight-year veteran of the resort.

A yearly rehab of the ride is required, says DiBernardo, in part because it is one of the resort’s most complex, with many moving show elements. To ensure that it continues to meet the theatrical and safety standards required, it may appear to Disneyland regulars that Indiana Jones Adventure receives tune-ups with more regularity than other rides at the resort.

Nicholas DiBernardo surveys the guest load-in area of Indiana Jones Adventure. DiBernardo, an area manager for Attractions Engineering Services, helped oversee the recent refurb.

(Myung J. Chun / Los Angeles Times)

When asked whether that’s the reality, DiBernardo answers: “Yes and no.”

“Every attraction is different,” he says. “Indiana Jones typically has a refurbishment every year just because of the size of the attraction and the amount of work that goes into keeping this attraction up. It all depends on the needs for improving show quality or maintenance reliability.”

An audio-animatronic figure of Indiana Jones, which was disassembled and rebuilt during the recent refurbishment of the attraction.

(Myung J. Chun / Los Angeles Times)

Two key changes were made to the attraction in 2026. The most recent — and the reason for the ride’s downtime this fall — was something of a wishlist item, and that was changing the machinations that drive its first major show scene, the doors that lead guests face-to-face with Mara, the deity within the Temple of the Forbidden Eye that drives the ride’s action. Prior to the refurbishment, the doors were controlled by hydraulic actuators. Now they’re fully electric. In simple terms, DiBernardo says the doors are now easier to maintain, there’s no longer a risk of a hydraulic spill, and they should properly open and close with significantly more dependability.

That may not sound like a sexy ride enhancement, but it’s one that DiBernardo says will ensure Indiana Jones Adventure runs more efficiently. “In the past, when the old actuators would fail, the doors would have to remain open, ruining the guest’s show experience,” he explains. Not just that, but it slowed down the ride, as fewer cars could be dispatched so riders weren’t seeing the vehicle in front of them.

Nicholas DiBernardo gives a tour of Disneyland’s Indiana Jones Adventure, which just completed a six-week tune-up.

(Myung J. Chun / Los Angeles Times)

Elsewhere, DiBernardo says capacity was able to be increased by improving the loading and unloading process, again a change that will be invisible to guests. Essentially, the vehicles park more accurately.

DiBernardo, who works Disneyland’s third shift from 2 a.m. to 11 a.m., says this adjustment, a mix of hardware and software changes, was made over the course of the past year. The problem, oversimplified: Vehicles did not always park in their precise loading and unloading position. Because a theme park attraction needs to operate with extreme exactness to ensure guest safety, DiBernardo says that before this fix, operators would have to send vehicles through the temple sans guests to reset them.

“That was a major win for us,” says the lifelong San Pedro resident. The parking issue was completed in May, and it’s changed the ride’s capacity.

Skulls on Indiana Jones Adventure. The area received a cleaning and a lighting refresh.

(Myung J. Chun / Los Angeles Times)

Of course, a huge cause of downtime for a Disneyland attraction is often largely out of the park’s control. It’s us, the guests, who are the problem.

“Our No. 1 downtime driver is guest items,” DiBernardo says. “Guests will be on the attraction, and they’ll have a large water bottle or a backpack. All the vehicles have a pouch for them to store everything, but if they don’t do that, there’s many twists and turns throughout the ride, and those articles can fly out. We’ll have to stop the ride. Not only are we working on ways we can improve maintenance reliability, we’re also working with our operations to help notify guests to store their items.”

Nicholas DiBernardo, who helped lead the recent refurbishment of Indiana Jones Adventure, walks toward Mara, the deity within the Temple of the Forbidden Eye.

(Myung J. Chun / Los Angeles Times)

To that end, each Indiana Jones Adventure vehicle has been outfitted with new, bigger pouches that should make it easier for riders to dump in their items. All of that should ensure more guests throughout the day can enjoy the attraction, and right now they’ll want to, as all the figures have been dusted, blacklight paint has been reapplied, and the Indiana Jones audio-animatronics have been disassembled and rebuilt.

Walking through the attraction on Thursday, DiBernardo pointed out how all the figures are currently moving with full mobility. The first time we see Indy he’s attempting to force shut a door, one that moves with the figure in front of vibrant animations. Later, he’s hanging over a guest in one of the ride’s grandest illusions, one designed to trick guests into believing the vehicle is reversing (it doesn’t move backward, but rather the walls shift) as a crater of a ball closes in on us.

Walking the track, I noticed many a detail I hadn’t seen on my hundreds of rides on the attraction over the decades. As Indy hovers above us, for instance, his legs and hips subtly shift. Elsewhere in the ride, when a vehicle dips down a hill, it’s actually going down steps. The latter are painted on the track, but DiBernardo notes that over time the cars eventually strip away the paint. I had never seen the stairs. Of course, it’s easy to be distracted by the skull in front of us hovering over a pit of lava, where many of the lights have now been refreshed.

Flames amid a decaying skull on Disneyland’s Indiana Jones Adventure.

(Myung J. Chun / Los Angeles Times)

Indiana Jones Adventure has changed over the years. Some opening day effects are long gone, such as the illusion created by actual shifting doors at the start of the attraction, or visions of tumbling rubble near its beginning. But Indiana Jones Adventure remains one of the park’s most detailed attractions, one in which I’m still discovering artistic minutiae more than 30 years after it opened in 1995. And as the recent refurbishment proves, it’s an attraction that remains an ever-evolving work of art.

“The sky is the limit on what we can also add to this attraction,” DiBernardo teases. But for now, it looks good as new.

Mr. Todd’s Wild Ride comes out every Tuesday, but we occasionally publish special editions (like this one!) when we have breaking theme park news. Make sure you’ve signed up to be the first to know.

Even as recently as a decade ago, Las Vegas hotel concierges and plenty of locals would have described the gap between the Strip and Fremont Street as something of a dead zone. This was a ragged corridor of old warehouses and auto shops, with more boarded-up storefronts than open doors.

“You couldn’t park your car and not worry,” remembers artist Gem Jaxx, who moved to Vegas in 2006 from Monterey County, Calif. “You couldn’t even walk the streets.”

Yet the idea of an arts district had been taking shape since the early ’90s, when the city identified an 18-block area south of downtown as ripe for creative development. Loosely framed by Hoover Avenue to the north and Colorado Avenue to the south, with Commerce Street and Fourth Street marking its west and east edges, this region became known as the 18b Arts District. First Friday, launched by a small group of artists and gallery owners in 2002, started pulling crowds into the neighborhood. Sometimes tens of thousands at a time, if only once a month.

The regular influx of visitors (combined with cheap rents and plenty of retail space) drew a wave of interesting tenants: antique dealers, secondhand clothing boutiques, microbreweries, cocktail bars. As the mix of businesses grew, 18b began to matter less as a set of boundaries and more as an identity.

“Very quickly it changed,” says Josh Kellman, president of the Arts District board. “Businesses here were saying, ‘Hey, I want to be in 18b.’ No one wants to feel like they’re outside the neighborhood.”

Today, the Las Vegas Arts District is a low-key alternative to the Strip for dining, drinks, art, shopping and beyond. Centered on Main Street, but with plenty to explore on neighboring Commerce Street and Casino Center Boulevard, it’s easy to spend an afternoon browsing vintage shops and gallery spaces, catch live music or a stage show, grab dinner, coffee and craft beer — and still have money left for tomorrow.

But the neighborhood is at a crossroads. After a tragic shooting happened earlier this month during First Friday, the monthly arts festival is now on hold as organizers and city officials consider how to move forward. Meanwhile, a proposed Business Improvement District intended to fund additional safety measures and neighborhood services has stirred debate over how to improve the area while preserving the independent spirit that made it a destination in the first place.

As questions swirl, fans of the Arts District hope it holds on to what makes it such a distinctive place. At a time when Las Vegas can feel increasingly engineered around sky-high bottle service, celebrity-chef tasting menus and cocktails edging toward $30, the neighborhood remains one of the places locals actually hang out and where tourists can experience Sin City beyond the slot machines. Here are 11 worthwhile stops on a visit to the creative hub.