GOING on holiday to Greece this year just became a whole lot easier.
If you dream of lazing on white sand beaches and gazing at turquoise waters with a Mythos beer in hand, you’re in luck.
Crete has ranked as one of the most affordable Greek islands in data from Travel SupermarketCredit: GettyKalyves bay and beach on CreteCredit: Alamy
Getting to Greece is set to be a breeze, as the country has ditched the new European border control systems for Brits that have resulted in three-hour queues as holidaymakers arrive at their destinations.
On April 18, the Greek Embassy stated that Brits entering the country will not have to enrol in the new EU border biometrics system, EES.
This means British holidaymakers visiting Greece can skip the fingerprint scanning and questioning that comes with enrolling in the Entry/Exit System.
Not only can you skip the queues in time for your Greek summer holiday, but if you’re yet to book something abroad, you still have time to nab an affordable break.
Here are the trusted travel company’s top five cheapest Greek island destinations, based on the average price per person for a 7-night stay.
*Prices correct at time of publication
5. Crete
Crete is one of the most affordable Greek holiday destinations, with an average holiday price per person of £718 for a week away (though we’ve found a steal of a deal for £235pp).
Chania on the west coast offers some of the island’s most beautiful natural landscapes, where you can hike Samaria Gorge or laze on the pinkish sands of Elafonisi Beach.
Lasithi on the east coast is home to lots of upscale resorts, which may bring the average holiday price up compared to the other islands.
Deal: Kristalli Hotel Apartments – £235pp
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The Kristalli Hotel Apartments sit in the coastal town of Malia, and offer comfortable accommodation with a traditional Greek village feel.
Book a 7-night stay from 3 June, including return flights from London Gatwick, for just £235pp.
Given that sunny Santorini is an A-lister hotspot, it may come as a surprise that it’s made the list of the cheapest Greek islands to book for Brits.
The average price per person for a week’s holiday here is just £621, which feels like a bargain considering its status.
Santorini is a picture-perfect Greek island, with bright white buildings that tumble down hills towards the Aegean Sea.
Visit Oia Village to spot blue-domed churches and to find the best viewpoints for the island’s spectacular sunsets, or sail off on a catamaran cruise to look back at the island from afar.
3. Rhodes
Wander historic streets in the Old Town of RhodesCredit: Alamy
Deal: Panorama Studios & Apartments – £205pp
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We found a Rhodes package holiday deal that feels almost impossibly cheap.
The Panorama Studios & Apartments offer traditional accommodation with a pool and plenty of loungers, close to lively Faliraki.
You can book a 7-night stay from 2 June, including return flights from Edinburgh, for just £205pp.
Rhodes remains a popular choice for British holidaymakers, and comes in joint-second place for the most affordable of the Greek islands.
Think picturesque whitewashed villages, cobbled narrow streets and endless blue horizon.
Not only are there plenty of beautiful beaches, like the emerald cove of Anthony Quinn Bay or beach-bar-lined Tsambika Beach, but there’s plenty of history here, too.
Wander the UNESCO-listed Medieval Old Town to its massive 14th-century castle, or walk the preserved Street of the Knights.
2. Lefkas
Underrated Lefkas is a stunning Greek island, accessible from mainland Greece via a bridgeCredit: Alamy
Deal: Villa Theodora – £539pp
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Villa Theodora in Lefkas is just a 2-minute walk from the nearest beach, and only 5 minutes from the tavernas and trinket shops of the main street.
We found a deal for a week-long stay from 1 August for just £539pp, including return flights from London Gatwick.
At an average cost of £599pp, Lefkas, or Lefkada, is the second-most affordable Greek island according to data from Travel Supermarket.
This lesser-known island has plenty of picturesque traditional villages and beautiful white limestone cliffs.
It’s worth visiting this quiet island before more people catch on to its beauty. Top beaches include the unspoiled Milos Beach and the crystal-clear waters of Agiofilli Beach.
Take a visit to the island’s traditional fishing resorts like Nidri, where its pretty harbour faces electric-blue waters.
This island also connects to mainland Greece via a bridge, making it one of the only islands you can drive to if you’re not a fan of travelling by boat.
1. Kefalonia
Kefalonia ranks as the most affordable Greek island, according to data from Travel SupermarketCredit: Getty
Deal: Liberatos Village – £467pp
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The Liberatos Village in Lassi has a spacious outdoor pool and snack bar, and is only a short walk away from the town’s bars and restaurants.
Bag a bargain week-long stay from 10 June for just £467pp, including return flights from London Gatwick.
Kefalaonia was revealed as the most affordable Greek island, with the average week-long holiday costing just £554pp.
As the largest Ionian island, Kefalonia has plenty to offer.
This beautiful island is full of white sand beaches and hidden coves to explore, such as the Blue Flag-listed Antisamos Beach and the crescent-shaped Myrtos Beach.
Plus, this is a great island to escape to for pure relaxation, as it offers a much more relaxed feel in comparison to the nightlife of its buzzy neighbours, Corfu and Zakynthos.
With so many affordable holidays to pick from, which Greek island destination would you go for?
Chris Webber, Head of holidays and deals at Travel Supermarket, suggests ticking off celeb-favourite Santorini.
He says: “Rhodes has been our most booked Greek island so far this year, but it’s only our third cheapest and fifth in terms of price drops — which shows there are real bargains out there for holidaymakers willing to look beyond the usual suspects.”
“The biggest surprise is Santorini. It has a reputation as a pricey, aspirational destination, but it’s had the largest price drop of any Greek island we track, down more than £200 per person on the same time last year.”
“If Santorini has ever been on your list, now is clearly the moment to go.”
Follow @thesuntravel on Instagram on TikTok for more travel tips and inspiration
THE black leather biker jacket George Michael wore for the music video of 1987 hit Faith fetched £176,400 at auction.
Organisers said “a fan” bought the item, made by London fashion brand La Rocka, and confirmed it would remain in the UK.
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George Michael’s leather BSA jacket fetched £176,400 at auctionCredit: GettyIt was first purchased for around £290, and he wore it on his Faith World Tour in 1988Credit: PA
The jacket, which George also wore on his 1988 Faith tour, features a BSA logo on the back embellished with crystals.
When first sold in La Rocka’s London shop, the jackets cost £290.
Also sold at the Propstore auction in London was a Gibson Les Paul ’59 once owned by Slash of Guns N’ Roses.
It fetched £233,100, a record for a guitar at auction.
It was one of 327 rare instruments, handwritten lyrics, stage-used pieces, and iconic personal artefacts sold at the event, which achieved an auction total of £1.9m.
Further success came from the sale of Peter Hince’s Queen collection, which realised a total of £350,000.
Lots from the former roadie for the legendary rock band were led by Freddie Mercury’s Gold Shure 565 SD Microphone Award, the first of his microphones with direct provenance to come to market, which sold for £151,200.
Peter Hince said: “I’m absolutely thrilled with how the auction has turned out, especially seeing Freddie’s gold microphone achieve such a strong price.
“It means a lot to know these pieces are going to fans who truly appreciate what Queen meant and still means today.”
A poster signed by John Lennon, one of the last four items he signed, was sold for £75,600 and Oasis hitmaker Noel Gallagher’s Les Paul Custom 20th Anniversary Guitar also sold for £34,650.
The fedora worn by Michael Jackson in his 1987 Pepsi commercial sold for an eye-watering £34,650.
Lewis Capaldi had to halt one of his shows in the US due to a technical difficultyCredit: InstagramHe kept the crowd entertained during the error, then decided to sing the song without any backing music insteadCredit: Instagram
But during his gig at Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre he encountered a major technical issue, leaving him unable to sing.
Lewis giggled next to the mic, sharing with the crowd: “Something has happened. Usually I’d be singing by now.
“Something technological has gone wrong. I’m not sure what the f***s happened.”
He then joked: “This feels like… erectile dysfunction in a way,” before checking in with his team to see if the error had been fixed.
Fans adored the acoustic performance, saying they were glad to be part of the “technical difficulties”Credit: GettyLewis is currently on his Survive tour after taking a hiatus from musicCredit: Getty
After learning it hadn’t, Lewis continued to entertain the crowd, saying: “Right, we’re not back. Hi.”
Fans of the musician found the moment hilarious and loved the way he chose to handle it – both with humour and then by deciding to go ahead with an acoustic performance while the tech issue was fixed.
One user on Instagram said: “Who needs all the technology with a voice like that?!?”
A second shared: “It was a once in a lifetime experience and we were very excited to be part of the “technical issue”.
A third added: “Well no one can claim he can’t sing live.”
Lewis’ tour shares the same name as his latest EP release which came out last year.
The new music followed him taking a two-year hiatus from the industry, after his anxiety and Tourette’s syndrome symptoms increased.
After Lewis finishes up his shows in America, he’s due to perform in Vancouver before heading over to the UK.
His first UK tour date is on June 19, taking place at the Isle Of Wight Festival.
SHE’S been branded arrogant, entitled and irritating by people who’ve watched her growing up on The Kardashians.
And as I braced myself to listen to North West’s debut EP N0rth4evr, I was expecting to absolutely hate it. But in all honesty, I love it.
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North West has released her debut EP N0rth4evr – and it is surprisingly goodCredit: SplashThe 12-year-old daughter of Kanye West and Kim Kardashian does actually have talentCredit: Getty
The six-track record proves that the 12-year-old daughter of Kanye West and Kim Kardashian does actually have talent.
She mixes heavy-metal guitar riffs with rage-rap and a flavour of the Japanese culture she loves so much.
Critics will argue that having two of the most famous people on the planet as parents would mean she couldn’t produce something that’s utterly rubbish.
But I’d argue North has a flair of originality and authenticity on all the tracks.
Kanye West’s daughter North has a flair of originality and authenticity on all the tracksCredit: PAShe samples Mumford & Sons’ 2009 track Little Lion Man on punchy and pacy Th!s t!meCredit: Getty Images – Getty
She samples Mumford & Sons’ 2009 track Little Lion Man on punchy and pacy Th!s t!me, and the final 28 seconds of W0ah crunching has an electric guitar solo.
For a child who has grown up knowing only fame and privilege, North carries the expectations on her shoulders in her lyrics.
No doubt she’s had a big helping hand, working with American rock siblings Meg and Dia Frampton, but it opens your eyes to what life might really be like as a kid everyone thinks they know.
On How I Feel, North sings: “In the back of the Lamb’, it get lonely, they be all up in my comments like they know me.
“If they approach me no phones please, lot of eyes on me that I don’t need.”
While on Th!s t!me, she raps: “They hear the name, they don’t hear what I’m sayin’.
“They want the fame, but you know I ain’t playin’.”
North4evr links to Kanye’s 2018 track Violent Crimes, where he rapped about protecting daughter North from danger.
On it, she sings: “So much people ’round me, but I know they all fake, so much goin’ in my head that I can’t say.
“Know my minds in a place that is not safe.”
She balances the pitfalls with plenty of not-so- humble brags though, and on D!e boasts about her influence on fashion and culture.
The track, which contains some influences of Post Malone, has her rapping: “How am I younger than you, but I’m who you look up to?
“Once they on trend, I’m already off it.
“I’m a rock star, you could tell by my closet. Once they on trend, I’m already off it.”
The apple hasn’t fallen far from the tree, clearly.
Beyonce has dropped yet another hint that her new rock-inspired album is comingCredit: She posted a video of Destiny’s Child hanging out with Fleetwood Mac singer Stevie Nicks in 2001Credit: X
BEYONCE’s next era is just around the corner – and she’s dropped yet another hint that her new rock-inspired album is waiting.
The singer removed all the country- inspired Cowboy Carter merchandise from her website last night as she prepares to start promoting the record.
Bey also dropped another big clue about the direction she is heading by posting a video on her website of Destiny‘s Child hanging out with Fleetwood Mac singer Stevie Nicks on the set of their Bootylicious video from 2001.
As I told you last week, Beyonce is planning to reveal all about her new record around the Met Gala in New York on Monday.
The album, believed to be called Betty Black, is the third in a trilogy of records following on from 2022’s Renaissance and Cowboy Carter in 2024.
We first revealed in July that Beyonce was working on a rock-themed album.
She hinted the record could be called Betty Black in a reclaiming of the African-American work song Black Betty which was remade in 1977 by rock group Ram Jam.
He has also rescheduled the Manchester AO Arena gig to May 24.
His concert at London’s O2 Arena is still planned to take place on May 23.
Zayn said he was recovering and wanted to come back “stronger”.
Roses taxman tussle
The Stone Roses have been stuck in a secret battle with HMRC over their former touring firmCredit: Getty
THE STONE ROSES have been locked in a secret 13-year battle with the taxman involving their failed touring company.
HMRC has been fighting the indie rockers – who made £26million from two huge reunion tours – over an unpaid £127,000 corporation tax bill from BMSW Ltd.
Over the years, the figure has risen to £158,000. The touring firm collapsed and went into liquidation.
Documents filed at Companies House reveal the Roses tried to close down BMSW Ltd in July 2013 after the end of the first tour, with £10million being distributed to the band after paying a £3.1million tax bill.
But there was a change in HMRC policy, which meant liquidators asked the group – late bassist Gary Mounfield, singer Ian Brown, guitarist John Squire and drummer Alan Wren – for £32,000 each.
That was received badly by the lads, below, who felt “extremely aggrieved” after signing an indemnity protecting them from such a liability.
It meant the firm moved from a member’s voluntary liquidation into a creditor’s voluntary liquidation in 2022 . . . and the battle is still going on.
Graham: Traitors turn-off
Graham Norton says he is not interested in taking part in Celebrity Traitors for one clear reasonCredit: Shutterstock Editorial
WE ARE just six weeks away from the start of the World Cup and the UK’s capital is getting THREE fan attractions for watching the matches.
Launching across three London venues, Kick Off Club will open three new World Cup fanzones.
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Kick Off Club will have three fanzones across LondonCredit: Kick off club
Follow The Sun’s award-winning travel team on Instagram and Tiktok for top holiday tips and inspiration @thesuntravel.
One will be at the Outernet on Tottenham Court Road, another will be at Electric Brixton in South London and the third will be at Colour Factory in Hackney Wick.
Each fanzone won’t have food for sale, but you will be able to get drinks, including drinks packages.
Outernet fanzone
At the Outernet fanzone, fans will find London’s largest indoor screen.
A NEW £11million attraction is opening in the UK next month, designed for every type of person.
Brits can expect all sorts of fun at the new Mega City, which will open in Slough on May 30.
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Mega City will open in May with several different activities insideCredit: Mega CityThe £11million attraction will include bowling, arcades and laser tagCredit: Mega City
Follow The Sun’s award-winning travel team on Instagram and Tiktok for top holiday tips and inspiration @thesuntravel.
Across three floors, visitors can have a go at different games and tech-based activities.
For those who love arcades, there will be over 130 machines to explore.
And ideal for families, there will be 10 bowling lanes to get competitive on.
Don’t mind building up a sweat? The venue will also have a huge laser tag arena, where up to 24 players can play at one time.
It isn’t the only laser activity at the attraction though, as there will also be a laser raid and laser maze challenges.
Visitors wanting to try out their different sport skills will be able to have a go in batting cages as well as try augmented reality (AR) clay pigeon shooting and AR darts.
Gamers will be happy to hear there are also going to be virtual reality arenas.
If you prefer a traditional night out, the attraction has you covered with private party rooms, karaoke and pool tables.
In addition to all of this, there will be Flashpads – colourful interactive tiles on the floor where you carry out a number of games or challenges.
There will be a number of activities that use the latest tech too, such as AR and VRCredit: Mega CityAnd of course, if you get hungry there is a restaurant to grab food fromCredit: Mega City
There will also be the Total Football video game and a Digital Box Room for immersive gaming experiences.
The best thing is that the entire venue is indoors, so you won’t have to worry about the UK’s unpredictable weather.
Of course, the interior design matches the excitement of the activities, with neon lighting and a central atrium which connects each floor.
And after all the fun running around and getting competitive, visitors can eat in the restaurant, where the main focus is on comfort food – think loaded fries and huge chicken burgers.
Adults can also enjoy a tipple from the bar, which will serve everything from classic cocktails and beers to shakes and soft drinks.
The entire experience is cashless too, so visitors will either need to purchase credit at the site which is loaded onto a card that you then scan each time you go on a machine or into a laser experience.
There’s also a bar with cocktails and beersCredit: Mega CityThe attraction will open on May 30Credit: Mega City
The card will track your points from the games and challenges, which can then be redeemed for prizes – kind of like the tokens at traditional seaside piers.
Alternatively, visitors can book experiences and group games such as the bowling, laser tag, VR and AR activities online, where they will get a QR code that they scan when at the venue to activate their session.
Jeet, co-founder of Mega City said: “At its heart, Mega City is about bringing people together.
“We wanted to create a place where different generations can enjoy shared experiences, feel welcome and make real memories.”
The new attraction will be just an eight-minute walk from Slough Station which sits on the Elizabeth Line and is only 40 minutes from central London.
FORMER X Factor winner Matt Cardle is set to come face to face with Simon Cowell on live TV again – 16 years after winning the ITV talent show.
I can reveal that Matt is being lined up to perform at one of the Britain’s Got Talent live finals in the coming weeks.
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Former X Factor winner Matt Cardle is set for a live TV reunion with Simon Cowell as he lines up for a performance on Britain’s Got Talent 16 years after his The X Factor winCredit: ITVMatt will take to the stage as part of a special performance of West End hit Kinky Boots, with Simon being a huge fan of musicalsCredit: Getty
Rather than performing new solo music, Matt will take to the stage as part of a special performance of West End hit Kinky Boots.
Bizarre’s Jack hung out on the set of her music video earlier this year, so we can’t wait to see that one live.
Zara‘s feeling f-Lush
Zara Larsson soaks up some rays ahead of headlining Radio 1’s Big Weekend in Sunderland next monthCredit: Main Rose/Charlotte RutherfordThis Friday she will release the deluxe version of her fifth album, Midnight Sun: Girls Trip, packed with collaborations, including Tyla and ShakiraCredit: Main Rose/Charlotte Rutherford
Zara Larsson has me counting down the days to my summer holiday after hopping on this float to promote her Main Rose swimwear brand.
She was living her own Lush Life as she soaked up some rays ahead of headlining Radio 1’s Big Weekend in Sunderlandnext month.
This Friday she will release the deluxe version of her fifth album, Midnight Sun: Girls Trip, packed with collaborations, including Tyla and Shakira.
And it’s testament to Zara trusting herself.
On writing and recording the track, which came out last year, she said: “I stopped focusing so much on what I thought other people would want from me or what I thought radio would want, and just started focusing on what I wanted to do.
“Ironically that’s when people start caring.”
Liam family praise for Louis’s heartfelt concert
Some of Liam’s relatives, including his sister Nicola, were in a VIP box to see Louis perform at Birmingham’s Utilita Arena last weekendCredit: Getty
“It was extremely emotional, but really beautiful, and it meant a lot to be there.
“Your staging and your songs are beautiful. A truly special night.”
Louis has previously spoken warmly about Liam.
He said: “I could talk all day about how amazing he was.
“We all looked up to him, he was vastly experienced before any of us had done anything.
“If he could just for five minutes live in my head or your head and see how we perceive him, he would be so shocked.
“He was pure.”
Madonna and Sabrina Carpenter’s Coachella collab Bring Your Love drops this Friday as the superstars release the official audioCredit: Instagram
The wait for Madonna and Sabrina Carpenter’s collaboration is almost over, as it’s being released this Friday.
The superstars recently performed Bring Your Love at Coachella and now they are putting out the official audio.
The pair made the announcement yesterday when they shared a new photo of themselves with the caption: “We’ve got something to say about it,” which is a reference to Madonna’s 1989 song Express Yourself.
It will be the first official single from the Queen of Pop’s forthcoming album Confessions On A Dancefloor: Part II, after she released a teaser track, I Feel So Free, earlier this month.
Humanize 102 words
Pink girl’s a leg-end
Pink with daughter WillowCredit: Getty
Pink has sold out stadiums and had No1s across the globe, but as far as daughter Willow is concerned she’s top of the charts as an embarrassing mum.
At the opening night of The Lost Boys musical in New York they posed for photots on the red carpet.
But while standing in front of the snappers, Pink gestured at the slit in Willow’s skirt and said, “Show off your legs,” to which the youngster snapped: “No!”
Alan’s tequila stunrise
Alan Carr has been revealing secrets on his Life’s A Beach podcastCredit: Getty
Alan Carr once fell in the Serpentine in London’s Hyde Park after drinking “hallucinogenic tequila” on his Chatty Man TV show.
The comedian said he was still feeling the effects the next day as he walked his dogs and suffered a mishap.
He explained he’d had a tequila the night before but was given a hallucinogenic one by mistake.
He added: “I couldn’t sober up and I fell in the Serpentine, p***ed.
“My old dog Bev, bless her, she dropped the ball in the Serpentine and I went forward to pick it up. And I think all the tequila rushed to the front of my head and I just fell in.”
Speaking on his Life’s A Beach podcast, he added: “In films, the dogs are meant to jump in and save you, but they were just wagging their tails, like, ‘What’s this p***head done again?’
“So I was just soaking wet and I had to walk . . . You know, when people are pulling their kids away, ‘Come away from the strange man,’ and all that.”
Capital’s Summertime Ball is returning to London, taking over Wembley Stadium to entertain 80,000 fans on June 6.
The line-up will be revealed by Jordan North, Chris Stark and Sian Welby on Capital Breakfast this morning and tomorrow, before tickets go on sale through the Global Player app at 9am on Thursday.
Gracie has secret follow-up
Gracie Abrams’ new record is rumoured to be all about falling for Normal People actor Paul MescalCredit: Getty
Gracie Abrams is back, two years after her album The Secret Of Us topped the charts.
The American singer released a teaser on Instagram yesterday, and it appears to be a snippet from the lead single for her upcoming third album.
The record is rumoured to be all about falling for Normal People actor Paul Mescal, although it doesn’t sound like it’s been smooth sailing.
They were reported to have briefly split in early 2025, and the song will do little to shut down that speculation.
Gracie sings: “I used to see clearly but it’s bloodshot. And I want you so badly but I closed off.
“I used to think we’d get married. But I guess not.”
Last summer we revealed Paul was at Gracie’s Glastonbury set, singing along to every word.
In February, they made their red-carpet debut at the Baftas in London.
And last month I told how Gracie had moved from LA into Paul’s London home, while he films the upcoming Beatles biopics.
Her last album was all about heartbreak, but I’m expecting some sunnier moments this time around.
The sports-themed panel show, A League of Their Own, is set to make a new comeback just one year after it was axed from TV after 20 seasons on Sky.
A League of Their Own is back(Image: Sky UK)
A year after the show was axed, A League of Their Own has announced that it will return in the form of a live arena tour, set to take place later in 2026 in the autumn.
It was announced that many of the famous faces from the show will be making an appearance again, with Jamie Redknapp and Jill Scott returning to the show. Jill will be the team captain for the blue team, while Tony will lead the red team.
Tom Davis, Patrice Evra, and Maisie Adam will also make guest appearances, with more A-listers set to be announced. The tour is set to hit major cities including Liverpool, Manchester, London, Newcastle, Birmingham and Glasgow, giving fans the chance to experience the action up close like never before.
As in the TV show, the live tour will include challenges in the studio, but this time performed live on stage in front of audiences.
Speaking about the tour announcement, Jamie Redknapp said: ‘‘I can’t wait to take A League Of Their Own on tour to some of the biggest and best venues in the UK. We’ve put together a top team of League legends, some very special guests, and every night promises to be different.
“It’s gonna be loud it’s gonna be chaotic and it’s probably gonna be full of Leatherman jokes at my expense. Hosting A League Of Their Own Live is a dream job, so come and join in the fun. See you there!”
The announcement that the series was coming to an end came in April 2025, with Sky revealing the series would be ending after the 20th season.
Phil Edgar-Jones, Executive Director of Original Unscripted at Sky, said: “Series 20 is the perfect opportunity to celebrate everything A League of Their Own has achieved and to give it the send-off it truly deserves.
“We’re incredibly proud of the show — it’s been a cornerstone of Sky’s entertainment line-up for fifteen years and has delivered endless laughter, heart, and unforgettable moments. Huge thanks to the brilliant team at CPL Productions and to our fantastic on-screen line-up — Romesh, Jamie, Jill and Micah — who continue to bring such energy and chemistry to the show.”
Tickets for A League of Their Own go on sale on Friday, May 1 on Ticketmaster.
A HUGE new “world class new visit destination” is set to open in the UK.
Xanadoo is a new indoor attraction concept that has been designed by some of the people behind the Eden Project.
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A huge new ‘world class’ attraction is set to open in the UKCredit: XanadooXanadoo hopes to open in South Wales, and is being created by some of the former Eden Project teamCredit: XanadooInside will be art, science attractions and playgroundsCredit: Xanadoo
They claim it will be “unlike any other museum” with massive playgrounds, art areas and food halls, as well as being educational.
When guests arrive, the will be a market hall with food and drink stalls.
The first area is the “Road to Happiness” with a series of art installations along the way.
Then there is “The Gallery of Marvellous Situations” which they say will take people “back in time” using immersive experiences.
The Playground in the third area, with images showing slides, a huge helter skelter, climbing structures, mazes, and even a life-size snakes and ladders.
Then in the fourth area is “Tomorrow’s World” with futuristic designs showing the world in hundreds of years time.
“Call to Action” is the final area, which has a life-size “game” with levers and dials that show the impact on the current world.
The entire attraction ‘will bring “science and art” together, and be for all ages.
The cost of the project hasn’t been revealed, but it is thought that £840million will be brought to the local economy, they predict.
They hope it will encourage year-round visitors, including families and school trips as well as locals.
Where it will be built is also yet to be revealed, although they are looking at locations across South Wales.
Gaynor Coley, co-founder of the Eden Project, told local media: “We believe Xanadoo can do the same for South Wales as the Eden Project did for Cornwall.
“An economic impact assessment has just been carried out and it has bought £6 billion to Cornwall and the West Country which is more than the whole of European funding and we’d like to do the same for South Wales.
“It will bring sustainable tourism, support hospitality and creativity, storytelling, digital and health and wellbeing.”
There will also be market halls and space for traders and studentsCredit: XanadooTomorrow’s World will have experiences showing the world in hundreds of yearsCredit: XanadooThere is no confirmed opening date or location yetCredit: Xanadoo
OLIVIA Attwood has revealed her brand new tattoo as she added another ink to her collection, and made a dig at her ex Bradley Dack in the process.
The TV presenter has several tattoos for her footballer ex, including his shirt number – 23 – and one which says ’till death’; with the other half of the phrase, ‘do us part’, inked on the sportsman.
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Olivia Attwood has taken a new swipe at her ex Bradley Dack as she got a new tattoo this weekCredit: InstagramThe TV personality headed to get a new name tattooed on her arm, leaving fans confused over who the ink is forCredit: InstagramDuring the trip, she quipped that this one better not ‘break my heart’, referencing the several inks she has for ex BradleyCredit: Instagram
Since then, the pair have enjoyed several dates and even a cosy getaway together, with the romance seemingly going strong.
Olivia got the name Savano inked on her, but didn’t reveal who that isCredit: InstagramMany wondered whether the tattoo is a secret nod to her new man Pete WicksCredit: AlamyThe former Love Island star got matching wedding tattoos with her ex Bradley following their nuptialsCredit: Instagram
A TINY village in the Cotswolds is home to a huge Indian-style palace – and you can easily visit it.
Sezincote House, which calls itself “India in the Cotswolds,” is a 200-year-old estate in the village of Sezincote near Moreton-on-Marsh.
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There’s an Indian-style house right in the middle of the Cotswolds that most people don’t know existsCredit: AlamySezincote House is near Moreton in Marsh and dates back more than 200 yearsCredit: Alamy
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Said to have been inspired by the Taj Mahal, it was created by Colonel John Cockerell who returned to the UK with money from the East India Company.
The house, designed with Hindu and Muslin architecture seen in Rajasthan, was created by his brother Samuel who was an architect.
Works started in 1805 and completed two years later, before being restored again after World War II.
It was even to have then inspired another famous Indian building – the Brighton Pavilion – after The Prince Regent visited in 1807.
It is now thought to be the only surviving building of its kind in Western Europe.
The house is still family run, who also run the nearby farm as well.
Across the 3,500 acres is the Mogul palace, as well as temples, gardens and pools.
You can also have some tea and cake at the Orangery Tearoom.
Just make sure to keep your phone in your pocket when exploring inside the house – still being privately owned, photos are not allwoed inside.
Previous tourists have praised its unique designs, with one saying: “The setting is absolutely stunning – from the moment you arrive, the house and grounds feel like stepping into another world.”
There are set opening times for the house throughout the year, usually from May to September, and only from Wednesday to Friday (along with some bank holidays).
Visits to the house need to be booked ahead, costing £15 for adults and £9 for kids.
This also includes access to the garden, but if you only want to visit that part, you don’t need to prebook and it is instead open from March to October.
Tickets are also cheaper, being £9 for adults and £3 for kids.
For something even more special, they even host a limited number of weddings every summer.
Other UK hotels we love
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The Queen at Chester Hotel
This historic hotel has welcomed the likes of Charles Dickens and Lillie Langtry through its doors. Rooms have richly-patterned carpets with super soft bed linen and premium toiletries in the bathroom. Go for a superior room for extra goodies including bathrobes and snack boxes.
This Cambridge hotel is in the ideal spot, within walking distance to bars, shops and hotspots like the university colleges and Parker’s Piece. The inside couldn’t be prettier, with huge stained glass windows, grand chandeliers, and rooms with enormous clawfoot bath tubs.
You can’t take pictures inside but you can of the gardensCredit: AlamyYou can visit the house from May to September although you need to prebookCredit: Alamy
It will be the first time that a famous trans person has competed on Channel 4’s military challenge show, which films its ninth series this summer.
Meanwhile Freddy Brazier is also in talks to compete on the show – following in the footsteps of his dad Jeff Brazier, who starred on the show in 2019.
Former Special Forces big dogsBilly Billingham, Jason Fox, Rudy Reyes, and Chris Oliver will all be on hand to push the stars to their limit.
Series eight, which went out in January, was given a Team UK v Team Australia theme and produced in conjunction with Aussie broadcaster Channel 7.
Seven stars from each country were pitted against each other to find out which of them were capable of completing the course.
Former Love Islanders Dani Dyer and Gabby Allen as well as retired Australian swimmer Emily Seebohm were crowned the winners.
Luxury hotel designer Tatiana Sheveleva, who has worked with brands such as The Ritz-Carlton and St. Regis, has been involved in some remarkable projects and knows a thing or two about hospitality
Tatiana Sheveleva has been a luxury interior designer for 15 years, covering hotels, resorts and yachts(Image: Handout)
A luxury hotel designer has revealed the key feature in every room that guests might miss, but it can make a huge difference.
Tatiana Sheveleva, originally from Kazakhstan but living in Toronto, Canada, has been a luxury hospitality designer, including for hotels, resorts and yachts, for 15 years and runs her company, Chapi Design. During her creative career, she’s worked on incredible projects with major brands, including St. Regis Hotels, The Ritz-Carlton, and The Luxury Collection.
These projects have taken Tatiana all over the world, designing interiors for hotels and resorts in Costa Rica, the Dominican Republic, Mexico, Peru, Antigua, Orlando, Nashville, and Toronto. She’s even designed a luxury yacht for the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, Luminara, which boasts 226 suites with private terraces, five restaurants, seven bars, and a wine vault.
One of Tatiana’s most recent projects was for St. Regis in Cap Cana, Dominican Republic, which was completed last year. “I like to do big properties, and everything we design [at Chapi Design] is custom-made,” Tatiana told the Mirror, “I have been very fortunate to work on different properties around the world.
“But it’s still so surreal for me that I’m working on the most amazing properties in the world, even though I have been doing this for 15 years.”
With a wealth of expertise on luxury interior designs, Tatiana revealed that there’s one key element in every hotel room that guests regularly miss.
The designer said: “The most money is spent on the headboard. Typically, it’s the most expensive piece as it’s often a feature. How you design the headboard depends on the bed’s location, and it can be a strong element of the project’s narrative.”
Tatiana revealed another important feature of any hotel room. “I would say the bathroom, believe it or not. It always gives the guests a good impression, and it’s the first place they go when they check into the room.
“The bathroom area is important. If you design a very unique layout for the washroom, people will start to talk about it. In the washroom, you can create something very sculptural and unique.
“If you are successful enough to create this interesting washroom, first of all, people will be spending more time there, they will have a bath and feel more relaxed. And actually, we spend a lot of our time in there.”
She added: “The light in the bathroom should be accommodating for different scenarios, bright enough to put on make-up but cosy and romantic at the same time. For me, every single washroom I design is very unique.”
Another feature of a hotel room that Tatania argues warrants attention is the bed.
“The mattress has to be comfortable, and the bedding. Also, there might be special glasses by the bedside table; it’s these details,” she said.
The designer likes to add a special feature inside the closet, such as interesting wallpaper, a splash of color, or a pretty stone.
“That’s a unique element you don’t notice right away, but you notice it after,” she added.
For Tatiana, the joy of the job comes from travelling and working with different people. She said: “The whole process is quite fun, and during this process, you get to meet a lot of interesting people who are passionate about projects. I also like to investigate new locations and new countries, because when I was in Kazakhstan, I didn’t really travel much. So, my first project for St. Regis was in Mexico, and it was my dream to go there.
“Mexico has a very unique culture, it’s very colourful, there’s amazing food, and they use alot of bright colours – there’s a lot of celebrations. It was very different, and I was very excited about that. The Dominican Republic is the same. It’s very comfortable, the people and land, it’s very nice.”
And her travels aren’t stopping anytime soon. Tatiana is currently working on mega interior design projects for St. Regis in Costa Rica, The Luxury Collection Hotel in Mexico, and Luxury Hotels in Peru and Antigua, and some projects can take as long as six years to complete.
You can read more about Tatiana’s projects on the Chapi Design website. You can also follow their Instagram page.
Do you have a travel story to share? Email webtravel@reachplc.com
Scarlett Moffatt is reaping the benefits of her popularity during her latest I’m A Celeb stint with her already being offered huge deals thanks to her on-screen success
Scarlett Moffatt has been offered a huge new ITV deal(Image: Getty Images)
Gogglebox star Scarlett Moffatt has landed a huge new deal with ITV following her I’m A Celeb success.
The popular TV personality missed out on being part of the I’m a Celebrity South Africa final after she was given the boot from the camp following a Bushtucker Trial that saw her have to count coloured balls. Fans were disappointed to see Scarlett, 35, axed before reaching the finale which ended up being an all-male line-up.
However, the exit has done her no harm with ITV bosses among an array of channels and brands who are keen to work with her following her latest stint. Scarlett said: “I have got something coming up with ITV and I’ve just done a photoshoot in Barcelona.”
She continued to The Sun: “It’s been a whirlwind recently. It feels like the first time I came out of the jungle ten years ago — the same thing is happening again.”
Scarlett was just 25 years old when she was crowned the Queen of the Jungle in 2016, two years after she found fame on Gogglebox. She went on to become a TV presenter in joining Ant and Dec on their hit show Saturday Night Takeaway, before diverting to Channel 4 to reboot Davina McCall ’s dating show Streetmate.
Scarlett also served as a host of I’m a Celeb spin-off Extra Camp. She welcomed her son Jude in June 2023 and took some time away from the world of entertainment, however her fresh stint on the I’m a Celebrity all-stars series has placed her firmly back in the spotlight cementing her popularity with the public.
A source said: “Scarlett might not have reached the final of I’m a Celebrity but she’s shone this series and it’s reminded everyone how funny, kind and brilliant she is. Her diary is packed with offers but she’s thrilled to have a big new project with ITV booked.”
Meanwhile, Scarlett revealed earlier this week that she and fiancé Scott Dobson are now expecting their second child. Speaking at ITV’s Showcase event on Thursday night, she said: “I’m so excited to be pregnant again.
“I didn’t know if it would happen again so I’m so grateful that I get to be a mammy for two. When I first had my little boy Jude, I decided to take two years off. Then I’ve come back into it head first and I’m pregnant again.
“But I don’t know if I’d want to take another two-year break — I love this job. I feel so grateful that I get to call this my career. I hope I’ll do lots of new things.”
The baby news came after viewers saw Scarlett talking about her fertility struggles in heart-wrenching scenes shown on I’m a Celebrity last week.
US power couple Beyonce and Jay Z have abandoned their plans to purchase a home in the UKCredit: APThe couple are eyeing a 16th century estate with 10 bedrooms in France near Bordeaux insteadCredit:
Crazy In Love singer Beyoncé, 44, and Jay-Z, 56, are already huge fans of the famous wine region – with the 99 Problems rapper celebrating his birthday there in 2023.
Sources say the US pair are looking at a 16th century estate boasting 10 bedrooms and eight bathrooms, nestled in a commune.
Locals have told how the area is abuzz with talk of the A-listers joining their community – which is described as the French equivalent to the Cotswolds.
Businesses have reportedly been sworn to secrecy about the couple’s potential arrival.
One local said: “Everyone is talking about Beyonce and Jay-Z moving to the area.
“It’s all been shrouded in secrecy, with local businesses and tradespeople forced to sign non-disclosure agreements, but theirs are the names on everyone’s lips.”
Residents have reported a recent surge in private planes landing at the closest airport.
One source also told how a job description has gone on a local noticeboard for an experienced property manager working with VIP clients at an historic estate.
One of the requirements for the role is “absolute discretion”.
OLIVIA DEAN stormed the opening night of her debut arena tour – but left fans gutted by not performing No1 hit Rein Me In.
She received a hero’s welcome at Glasgow’s OVO Hydro, fresh from a stellar few months which saw her scoop four Brit Awards, three Mobos and the Grammy for Best New Artist.
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Olivia Dean left fans gutted by not performing No1 hit Rein Me In on the opening night of her debut arena tourCredit: LOLA MANSELLOlivia told the crowd that her whirlwind success over the past 12 months has been a shock, even to herCredit: Getty
But she surprised the audience by deciding not to include her Sam Fender collaboration, which has so far spent eight weeks at the top of the charts, on her 23-track setlist.
So fans had a singalong to it outside the venue afterwards instead.
Rein Me In won the Brit Award for Song of the Year in February, but Olivia had plenty of other brilliant tunes to satisfy the sold-out arena.
As floor-to-ceiling white stage curtains opened to reveal the singer, she looked cool, calm and collected, despite the high expectations on her shoulders.
She breezed out in a pink sequined dress and was greeted with echoing singalongs of utterly joyous tracks Nice To Each Other and So Easy (To Fall In Love).
She then told the crowd that her whirlwind success over the past 12 months has been a shock, even to her.
She explained: “This is crazy. Apologies if I get emotional tonight but I just can’t believe how many people are here. Today we were driving in and I drove past King Tut’s. I played there two years ago, and there was 300 people in the room.
“Now I’m here with all of you, so thank you so much for being here.
“Just enjoy yourselves. Sing, dance, cry, whatever you want. I’ll certainly be having a good time.”
And things got more emotional as she performed UFO, from her 2023 debut album Messy, which she said is about feeling “overwhelmed.”
When the audience spontaneously waved their phone torches in the air to light up the arena, she wiped away tears of joy.
SET LIST
The Art Of Loving (Intro);
Nice To Each Other;
Lady Lady;
So Easy (To Fall In Love);
Close Up; Let Alone The One You Love;
Messy;
UFO;
Touching Toes;
I’ve Seen It;
Carmen;
Echo;
Time;
Loud;
A Couple Minutes;
The Hardest Part;
Baby Steps;
Ladies Room;
Move On Up (Curtis Mayfield cover);
OK Love You Bye;
It Isn’t Perfect But It Might Be;
Dive; Man I Need
One of the set’s unexpected highlights came as she sang Loud live for the first time.
And she did so in a flowing white skirt from a flower-shaped stage in the centre of the room.
Against stripped-back instrumentation, the haunting track showed her vocals at their most powerful.
Back on the main stage, disco balls descended from the ceiling for a more upbeat section which had her skipping and dancing across the stage, along with her nine-piece band.
As she wrapped up the gig, she said: “I never imagined I could have my own headline arena tour. It’s mental.
“Thank you so much for listening and just believing in me.”
And while she didn’t do Rein Me In, she finished her set with fan favourite Dive and her first No1, Man I Need.
She will be back on stage tomorrow at Manchester’s Co-op Live before six nights at London’s O2 Arena, and further shows in Dublin and across Europe.
Olivia is at the top of her game right now and if you want a warm, musical hug, this concert is it.
Duran set for summer
Duran Duran have dropped new single Free To LoveCredit: Stephanie Pistel.The band have worked on a single with Nile RodgersCredit: Alamy
DURAN DURAN have dropped new single Free To Love and have signed up presenter Clara Amfo to appear in the music video.
They gave Radio 2 a first play of the track yesterday morning and it’s a banger, with Simon Le Bon and the band working on the single with Nile Rodgers – 40 years after he produced their Notorious album.
In an exclusive chat after the single dropped, John Taylor told me: “We wanted to write something uplifting for these times we find ourselves in. A feelgood piece for an imaginary dance floor.
“I always want to feel the DNA of classic disco in our music, reframed for now. Nile locks us into that timeless groove, bringing a sense of optimism. It’s a reminder that music can still bring people together.”
If you’ve not heard Free To Love yet, definitely give it a listen. It’s the perfect summer song.
Lady Gaga eyes six second Oscar
Lady Gaga wants an OscarCredit: Splash
LADY GAGA is eyeing up another Best Original Song nomination at the Oscars after recording three songs for Devil Wears Prada 2.
After Gaga, released her Doechii collaboration Runway earlier this month, I told how the superstar had a surprise in store for fans and had contributed more to the film’s soundtrack.
I can reveal that as well as Runway, Gaga has recorded Shape Of A Woman which she performs during the film, plus a third song, which is called Glamerous Life.
It is a stripped-back emotional ballad – similar to her 2022 single Hold My Hand for the Top Gun: Maverick sequel.
On the new song, Gaga sings: “I might need a hero to save me from breaking. Can I be myself in a world that’s just faking it?”
In 2019 Gaga won Best Original Song at the Oscars for A Star Is Born’s Shallow and if Prada 2, which is in cinemas from May 1, takes off like I think it will, she will have another Oscar nomination under her belt.
Gaga co-wrote Shallow with Mark Ronson and performed it at the Oscars ceremony with her movie co-star Bradley Cooper.
Sofa, so good Kylie
Kylie Jenner used her cream sofa as the backdrop for a load of thirsty Instagram snapsCredit: Instagram/kyliejenner
ANYTHING Kylie Jenner touches seems to turn to gold.
So I think sofa superstore DFS should be having a serious think about signing her up, after the American reality TV star turned beauty mogul decided that she would use her cream sofa as the backdrop for a load of thirsty Instagram snaps.
Over two million of her fans have now liked the images, which Kylie captioned: “Can’t a girl have fun?”
I can think of more places to have a laugh than on my sofa wearing a bra, but each to their own.
Ant & Dec go crazy
We revealed back in February that Ant & Dec were in talks for a new ITV show all about crazy golfCredit: Rex
And now I’m told the Geordie duo have had the series green-lit by telly chiefs, and the pair are already busy filming with a host of golf-mad hopefuls.
It is based on US show A Hole In One, where contestants battle it out on a seriously hard silly course for cash.
A source said: “Ant and Dec have been given the nod and they’re preparing to film their new ITV show later this summer.
“Rather than having the public competing like in the US version, they’ve got a load of golf fans to sign up and play.
“It’s going to be the weirdest and wackiest game of crazy golf ever, with some big personalities trying to putt a winner.
“Ant and Dec are huge golf fans so really wanted to get the concept off the ground. ITV loved it and now it’s being pitched for a primetime slot on Saturdays. It’s family-friendly and with the great personalities they’ve got on board, they think it could be a ratings winner.”
Ant and Dec will have a hell of a job fitting this new show into their schedules, with the pair due to jet off to Australia later this year for the next series of I’m A Celebrity . . . Get Me Out Of Here!
But if I was getting paid to spend some days in the sun mucking around on a crazy golf course, I’d definitely make some time in my diary.
Liam bigs up Oasis return
Liam Gallagher is bigging up more Oasis live showsCredit: Getty
LIAM GALLAGHER is fuelling what we all know – Oasis will be coming back with more live shows.
And now the motormouth has sent fans in Italy into overdrive after heading to Rome.
He was mobbed outside his city-centre hotel, where one asked if he and Noel would return to the city.
Liam replied: “Without a doubt. We’re coming next year.”
I revealed the rockers are plotting more reunion dates in 2027 after taking this year to recharge.
A huge run across the UK, Europe and North America is heavily tipped as the brothers celebrate the 30th anniversary of their heyday.
For a man meant to be on holiday, Liam is putting in serious hours in the Oasis promotions department.
Tyla has A* pop lined up
Tyla has announced her second album and when it will dropCredit: Tod Dow Young/ Fallon Tonight
TYLA has announced her second album A*Pop will drop on July 24.
The singer was in New York to dish out copies of her signed i-D Magazine cover and celebrated the release date with her fans, saying: “Initially going into this project, I was nervous – like, ‘Where do we go from here?’
“But I realised that the music really reflects where you are in life, and the way the new album sounds came on its own, it fell into place.
“There are some exciting features but those are all still under wraps for now.”
Reverand And The Makers also have exciting news for fans.
Today they have dropped new single F*ked Up with Robbie Williams.
NICK GRIMSHAW knows an act who has already been booked to headline Glastonbury 2027, after I revealed in January his close pal Harry Styles will top the bill next summer.
On his Sidetracked podcast Nick seemed to confirm my story by saying: “I know someone that’s playing. I can’t say who. So two spots to go . . . Maybe. They might be booked.”
VINYL fans with deep pockets should start saving now, as the White Label Auction is back.
The annual sale in aid of The Brit Trust begins on June 23, with hundreds of rare white label test pressings going under the hammer through Omega Auctions.
Among the hottest lots are signed releases from Sam Fender, The Cure, Roxy Music and Yungblud.
The charity event has already raised more than £200,000.
STRICTLY fans can swap the sofa for the dance floor later this year, with the show’s pros heading to Warner Hotels for a string of star-studded breaks.
Kai Widdrington and Katya Jones will lead the glittery line-up, with guests able to watch live performances, snap photos and even learn a few moves themselves.
And it’s not just sequins on offer.
Singers Chesney Hawkes, Michael Ball, Alexandra Burke, Will Young and Russell Watson are all booked to perform at various locations across the country.
THE WEATHER is warming up and what better way to enjoy it then heading to an upgraded lido?
The UK is home to over 150 outdoor swimming pools, so there are more than enough to choose from no matter where you are in the country.
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A number of UK lidos are being upgrading this year including Portishead Open Air Pool (pictured)Credit: TripAdvisorHilsea Lido will also reopen this year, having been closed since 2022Credit: Instagram/Hilsea LidoA floating lido is set to open in Canary Wharf, London, this summerCredit: Sea Lanes
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But there are a number of lidos that are reopening this year with major upgrades – or even new ones opening for the first time.
Here’s a rundown of the refreshed spots with new heated pools, cafes and splash parks.
Portishead Open Air Pool
Sitting not too far from the British Channel coast, Portishead Open Air Lido reopened this week following a major £1.3million makeover.
The brand new £4million heated lido will have a huge pool, kids’ splash park and spa zone.
A new lido will also open with a spa in Illford, called Valentines LidoCredit: Redbridge Council
Our favourite UK holiday parks
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Park Holidays UK Sand le Mere, Yorkshire
This holiday park in Yorkshire is a thriving family resort, just steps from Tunstall Beach. Entertainment is what this resort does best, with costume character performances, Link-up Bingo and cabaret shows. Accommodation ranges from fully-equipped Gold Caravans to Platinum Lodges with sun decks and luxury bedding.
This beachfront resort in St Ives, Cornwall is a true beach bum’s paradise – whether you want to laze out on the sand, or take to the waves for some surfing. Activities include disc golf, a Nerf challenge and an outdoor cinema, as well as indoor activities for the colder months like karaoke, bingo and DJ sets.
This holiday park has loads of unique activities on offer, including TikTok dance classes, alpaca feeding, a pump track for BMX riding, and taking a ride on the resort’s very own miniature railway. Throw in bug hotel and den building, pond dipping, survival skills workshops and a lake for paddleboard and pedalo hire, and you’ve got yourself an action-packed park.
Parkdean Resorts Camber Sands, Sussex This beachfront resort is a classic family favourite. If you’re not up to swimming in the sea, there’s four fantastic pools here, as well as water flumes, underwater jets, inflatable jet skis and kayak races. Plus if you’ve got any little fans of Paw Patrol or Milkshake!, you’ll be glad to know there’s Milkshake! Mornings and Paw Patrol Mighty Missions to keep your tots entertained.
In addition to the 25metre-long, six-lane pool, there will be a gym too.
Other facilities planned for the site include a cafe, gym, dance and exercise studio, meeting room and a picnic area.
Unity Beach holiday park, Brean
Unity Beach holiday park in Brean will launch a £10.2million expansion this year with a new lido that will be surrounded by private cabanas and an outdoor dining area as well.
Open to non-guests as well, a new indoor splash pad will also replace the baby pool, for kids to play in.
The park is also planning to open a trampoline park, bandstand, boardwalk, landscaped gardens and a dog agility area.
Hilsea Lido
Hilsea Lido in Portsmouth is currently undergoing a £7.75million refurb, having been closed since 2022.
The lido is planning to reopen on May 2 and will feature an upgraded pool, new changing rooms, benches, tables and a fountain.
The refurb at Hilsea Lido will cost £7.75millionCredit: Facebook
In total, the pool will be 67metres long and 2.6metres deep.
For those wanting a snack or drink while visiting, there will also be a food and drink pop up on site.
Saltdean Lido
Saltdean Lido in Brighton is planning to refresh its cafe and restaurant.
The upgraded restaurant and cafe will feature dishes made with local produce and will reopen as the Reading Room at Saltdean Lido on May 1.
If you are looking for a lido near you, two women who have been to every one in the country have shared their favourite pools for kid-free swims.
A remarkably preserved town that has been underwater for a whopping 2,400 years has reappeared in a tourist holiday hotspot – anchored in the past and frozen in time
The discovery was made in southeastern Turkey(Image: Getty Images)
In an extraordinary turn of events, a town has reappeared after being submerged under water for more than 2,000 years – and it remains largely untouched.
In the popular holiday hotspot of southeastern Turkey, archaeologists uncovered a 2,400-year-old town beneath the Dicle Dam Lake. Despite being submerged for thousands of years, the town appeared eerily frozen in time, with remarkably preserved mosques, religious schools, and tombs that once made up an ancient community.
Due to a lack of human disruption, the town, near the district of Eğil, and near Diyarbakır, has remained protected and untouched under the water’s still surface. “In the images taken by the teams or when the water recedes, we can see that these historical structures have preserved their integrity and remain standing in a solid condition,” Dr. İrfan Yıldız, a researcher at Dicle University, said.
The mosque and tombs beneath the water are said to be associated with the Prophet Elisha, as well as the Ottoman-era Caferiye, also known as Lala Kasım, Madrasa, and the Byzantine-era Deran Bath. Experts have noted just how extraordinary it is to have such well-preserved structures underwater.
The discovery of the settlement, published by Dicle University, is now offering archaeologists insight into the region’s prehistoric past and its transformation over the millennia. But how did this foregone town, that once had a thriving community, find itself lost in time and engulfed under water?
The Dicle Dam Lake was formed by a dam built in 1986 and completed in 1997, which was required as a vital water source for the region. But before this, the Eğil district, part of the Tigris River Valley, had been home to ancient communities.
Its residents date back to the Hittites and Ottoman empires, which once used prehistoric tombs. While the region is said to have served as a vital gateway for Assyrians, Persians, Hurrians, Mitanni, Romans, and Byzantine citizens.
Before the dam was completed and flooding engulfed parts of the region, some important sites were removed, while other parts were simply abandoned. The reservoir was filled, and the ancient town remained untouched, lost beneath the water.
While it’s been one of the most fascinating discoveries, the ruins are at risk of being lost if measures aren’t taken to protect them due to shifting water levels, sediment activity and possible erosion. Dr Yıldız, who described the find as “extraordinary”, is championing the extension of studies to protect the heritage site.
He said: “Underwater archaeological studies can be carried out on these remains.” It’s thought that further studies on the former town could help uncover more of the region’s history and the lives of the citizens who called it home, all those years ago.
Do you have a travel story to share? Email webtravel@reachplc.com
A SMALL European country without the crowds has revealed huge plans to overhaul its airport.
Luxembourg Airport is getting a huge £871million makeover that will eventually accommodate 10million passengers a year.
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Luxembourg Airport has revealed plans for a £871million upgradeCredit: lux-AirportTerminal A will be expanded and Terminal B will be rebuiltCredit: lux-Airport
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Works at Terminal A will focus on extending the current terminal to the airport’s tram stop and creating a new, modern security area with the latest technology by 2028.
There will also be an improved check-in area and bag drop-off area by 2028, to help passengers to move through the airport quicker.
By 2032, the disused underground station at the airport will be transformed into a baggage sorting area too.
On the other hand, Terminal B will be completely redeveloped.
It will be transformed into a two-storey building with six new boarding gates, which passengers will have to hop on shuttle buses to get to.
The airport as a whole will get a number of other upgrades as well, such as the air traffic control tower as well as a new business aviation centre and VIP lounge set to open in 2029.
Aircraft parking across the airport will also increase from 27 spaces to 53, with additional boarding bridges too.
The airport hopes that the development will help the airport to handle up to double the amount of passengers it currently does (5.2million) to 10million passengers a year, by 2050.
A huge project is also going on around the airport that will see over 44 acres transformed into new offices, shops, restaurants and even a VIP terminal.
Dubbed the ‘Airport City’, travellers will be able to shop and dine at places including Starbucks and Oberweis restaurant in an area with a “unique metropolitan feel”.
The Airport City will even have a new hotel with the Skypark Business Centre North Hotel having over 200 rooms.
Then at Skypark Business Centre South, there will be a shopping centre and direct access to the terminal.
There is also another project at the airport to create an ‘Airport City’ with shops and restaurantsCredit: lux-Airport
Luxembourg is surrounded by Belgium, France and Germany and tends to be a lesser-visited country in Europe.
In total, around one million people visit the country each year, whereas around 19million visit Belgium, over 100million visit France and over 37million visit Germany.
If heading to the capital, Luxembourg City, you will find a UNESCO listed medieval old town sat at the edge of steep cliffs.
The country as a whole is a great destination for keen hikers too with over 3,000 miles of trails through Ardennes forests and vineyards.
A major plus of visiting the country is that public transport is free across Luxembourg for everyone.
Luxembourg was also named one of the best places in the world for quality of life, last year.
Despite being home to just under 700,000 people, the Numbeo Quality of Life index placed the country top across a number of categories including the cost of living and house price to income ratio.
The country was also named among the happiest countries in the world last year, according to the World Happiness Report 2025.
The report recognised the country’s strong economy, as well as its social support network, with residents claiming that they have a good personal freedom.
You can fly direct to Luxembourg from the UK from London City, London Heathrow and London Stansted airports.
A one-way flight from these airports in May costs from £15 per person and only takes an hour.
2026 is looking like the year of the staycation – and luckily, you’ve got plenty of revamped resorts along the coast to choose from.
Many of the UK’s favourite seaside towns are unveiling major, multi-million-pound makeovers. Luckily, while the upgrades are first-class, the holiday prices remain refreshingly retro.
Blackpool is one of many UK seaside resorts seeing multi-million-pound upgrades this yearCredit: Alamy
We’ve scoured the coast to find the biggest transformations alongside the best-value places to stay, with budget-friendly deals starting from just £35 a night.
From record-breaking theme park rides to Victorian promenades polished back to their former glory, here are the hottest UK seaside spots that have been revamped for 2026.
Blackpool
The huge new gyro swing ride, Aviktas, will be a new addition to Blackpool’s Pleasure BeachCredit: Supplied
If you thought you knew Blackpool, think again. This family entertainment hotspot is undergoing a glow-up.
The popular theme park Blackpool Pleasure Beach is unveiling a massive new ride to keep thrill-seekers on their toes: Aviktas.
The giant gyro swing ride is set to be the tallest of its kind at 138 feet, changing the skyline of Blackpool pier. The ride is set to open on May 21.
As well as this, the seaside town is unveiling a brand-new £3million indoor attraction.
Set to open this summer, Tenpin Blackpool will host 24 bowling lanes as well as a laser tag arena, soft play, escape rooms and even karaoke rooms.
Plus, there’s a cocktail bar and live sports lounge for the grown-ups, too. The attraction is set to open on June 5.
There’s plenty more to look forward to in time for summer as well.
The Southbeach Streetfood dining venue will serve a selection of food from 19 revamped shipping containers, and is set to open by the end of spring.
There’s also the 100th Anniversary of the Blackpool Dance Festival, with ballroom and Latin dance events held at the Winter Gardens from May 16-29.
To enjoy all the new thrills coming to the seaside resort this summer, we’ve scoured the internet for the cheapest staycation deals.
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Haven Marton Mere holiday village is just a 12-minute drive from Blackpool, where you can book a holiday from just £49.
The Haven Hideaway deal includes a four-night stay for two in a saver caravan.
Brighton
Brighton’s Victorian Promenade is getting a new lift for step-free access to the beachCredit: GettyA Travelodge is just a two-minute walk from Brighton Beach, with prices starting from £34.99 a nightCredit: Alamy
If you fancy a seaside escape with a touch of Victorian glamour, Brighton is currently polishing its crown.
The city’s famous Victorian promenade has been undergoing a massive £750,000 revamp, with the historic terraces set to fully reopen to the public this year.
It’s the perfect excuse to book a staycation, stroll the seafront and soak up the bohemian atmosphere that makes this city famous.
For a totally free afternoon, head to the Rampion Visitor Centre on the seafront to try out their virtual reality experience, or go street art spotting through the North Laine, where the walls are a giant open-air gallery.
The Brighton Fishing Museum is a great free stop-in to see traditional Sussex boats, while the world-famous Brighton Palace Pier costs just £1 entry for adults (kids go free) and is a must-do when visiting.
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Despite its “London-by-the-sea” reputation, you can still find a bargain stay right in the thick of the action.
A night at the Travelodge Brighton Seafront is just a two-minute walk from the beach, and can be bagged from just £34.99 a night – leaving you with plenty of spare change for a bag of doughnuts on the pier.
Folkestone
Folkestone’s upgrades just keep coming, with the restoration of the Leas Lift and new dining spotsCredit: AlamyFolkestone has even opened up a sauna on the beach, which is the UK’s largestCredit: Sea Scrub Sauna
Folkestone is all the rage as the artsy seaside town continues to benefit from a massive £20 million makeover.
The town has been transformed into an open-air art gallery, with the Creative Quarter’s neon-lit streets leading down to a revamped Harbour Arm.
The Harbour Arm has now become a trendy dining destination, with nearly 70 food and drink outlets available.
Some of the top-rated include the champagne bar The Lighthouse and its sister restaurant Tasting Rooms – visit on Fridays for three courses, complimentary fizz and Jazz music for £29.
Plus, spring 2026 brings the long-awaited return of the historic Leas Lift, a Victorian water-balanced funicular that’s been restored to its former glory.
When visiting, you can spend a totally free afternoon wandering the Folkestone Artworks trail to see sculptures by famous artists, or head to the Lower Leas Coastal Park to make use of the largest free adventure play area in the South East.
For some unique self-care, visit the brand new Sea Scrub Sauna right on the beach for a sweat with a sea view.
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You can bag a stay at the Burstin Hotel overlooking the harbour from just £49 a night.
Southampton
The Town Quay in Southampton is soon to receive a £200million upgradeCredit: AlamyHythe Pier stretches 700 yards and is accessible via the world’s oldest pier railwayCredit: Alamy
Southampton is one year into the major makeover of its waterfront and city centre, in a grand revamp described by the council as “The Renaissance Vision”.
Plus, the newly-approved £200million upgrade to Town Quay will soon see the addition of a new hotel complex, bringing a spa and even a helipad to the waterfront.
While the planning for the big builds is underway, one heritage seafront attraction has reopened to the public.
If you visit this summer, you’ll be able to walk the newly reopened Hythe Pier – a 145-year-old seaside pier that is sparkling new again after six months of extensive restoration.
To get there, board the world’s oldest pier train at Hythe Pier Railway. The pier stretches a whopping 700 yards from the centre of Hythe to Southampton Water, and costs £1 to enter.
To explore Southampton’s history, you can spend a totally free afternoon walking the Titanic Trail, which leads you through the city centre to historic memorials.
Or see the exciting new displays at Southampton City Art Gallery, which has just reopened its doors in March 2026 following a year of upgrades.
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For a budget-friendly base right in the heart of the action, you can bag a room at the Ibis Budget Southampton from just £40 a night.
Margate
Trendy Cliftonville will be receiving a beachfront skate park as part of Margate’s major upgradesCredit: AlamyHead for a swim in Walpole Bay, a giant tidal pool spanning four acres in sizeCredit: Getty
Margate is undergoing continued transformations set to further transform the seaside town into one of the UK’s trendiest coastal hubs.
Local neighbourhood Cliftonville was named thecoolest street in the UK by Time Outlast year, and the area’s only getting more stylish with the addition of a brand new attraction.
Abandoned gardens overlooking the sea will be transformed into a beachfront skatepark in Cliftonville, a trendy area known as “Shoreditch-on-sea”.
The skatepark is predicted to open in the late summer of 2026, and set to cost £1.1million to build.
As well as this, Margate’s Winter Gardens are set to reopen after an £8million upgrade. The historic seaside venue has seen bands like The Beatles and The Rolling Stones take the stage, first opening in 1910.
Now the charming venue will see the addition of a snazzy rooftop bar and restaurant, as well as a nursery and drama school. The Main Hall of the Winter Gardens is set to reopen to the public in late 2026, with other new additions opening in stages throughout 2027.
Plus, the upgrades aren’t slowing down anytime soon, with proposed plans to build a new £95,000 accessible boardwalk on Margate Sands.
To see the best of this trendy resort on your trip, stroll along the beachfront to soak up sea views, before stopping in at the free-to-enter Turner Contemporary gallery to see the latest exhibition.
Elsewhere, take a dip in what’s believed to be the UK’s largest tidal pool, Walpole Bay, or take the family along to the free Crab Museum in the Old Town for a quirky, hands-on experience of science and marine life.
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For a budget-friendly stay, Premier Inn Margate offers sea views and is close to Dreamland amusement park, with rooms from £78 per night.
Hull
Hull was named one of National Geographic’s best places to travel in the world in 2026Credit: GettyThe Spurn Lightship opened up on Hull Marina in March 2026, for the first time since 2018Credit: Alamy
Named one of National Geographic’s best places in the world to travel to in 2026, Hull has plenty to offer holidaymakers.
A massive £27.5m makeover has seen the area invest in its maritime history, with the money poured into the city’s historic museum and ships.
The Maritime Museum, which received an £11million makeover beginning in 2020, is finally set to reopen in summer 2026.
New additions to the museum include a 40-foot whale skeleton, miniature ship models and maritime artwork.
As well as this, the new and improved Spurn Lightship opened in early March of 2026, having been closed to the public since 2018.
The floating museum is free to visit, with slots reserved online. You can also book a place for a free maritime guided tour, running on Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays.
Hull also boasts plenty of totally free attractions, such as the Streetlife Museum, where you can hop aboard a vintage tram and stroll down a 1940s high street.
Alternatively, head to Hull‘s revamped Queen’s Gardens. Set to reopen in April 2026, the gardens’ three ponds have been refreshed, plus there are redesigned Peace Gardens and plenty of new maritime-themed activities.
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Bag a stay in this coastal hotspot at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hull, where rooms start from £69 a night.
Littlehampton
Littlehampton received a £7.2million investment to build family attractions on the West GreenCredit: AlamyThe West Green in Littlehampton now has a waterfront splash park with shade spots to rest inCredit: Experience Sussex
Littlehampton is quickly becoming a firm family favourite for 2026, thanks to the massive £7.2million transformation of the West Green seafront.
With the revamp reaching completion late last year, the seaside resort is ready to welcome visitors for the 2026 spring and summer season.
The West Green seafront now has a water play area, with jets, splash pads and shaded areas to make use of in the hotter months.
As well as this, families can make use of the barbecue zones, mini basketball court and beach volleyball court. Plus, there’s also a climbing wall and petanque setup for even more fun and games.
And when you get hungry, there’s your pick of food and drink kiosks, from the Soul Kitchen and Bar to delicious Jim’s Ice Cream.
To extend your free family day out in Littlehampton, stroll the promenade past the colourful and quirky longest bench in Britain, which winds along the coast.
Or for an indoor option, pop into the Littlehampton Museum, which offers free entry and a look at the town’s history, from the Anglo-Saxon era to WWII.
There’s so much to do in the surrounding area, too. Just a few miles west is the town of Bognor Regis, where you could get day passes to Butlin’s.
There’s also the Bognor Pier, Hotham Park Miniature Railway and Blake’s Cottage, the former home of the poet William Blake, which is now a museum.
There’s also the South Downs National Park, the Goodwood Estate and Racecourse, Petworth House and Amberley Museum.
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You can stay just a mile from the new seafront action at the Travelodge Littlehampton Rustington from just £39.99 a night.
Chocolate lovers will soon be able to enjoy a brand new theme park based on an iconic Swiss brand, and at the heart of it all will be a real-life working chocolate factory to explore
The park is a chocolate lover’s dream(Image: Maison Cailler )
If you’ve got a serious sweet tooth, and spent your entire childhood reading and re-reading Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, then a new attraction could soon be top of your bucket list.
Switzerland is already a major destination for chocolate lovers and for many of them the highlight of the trip is visiting Maison Cailler in Broc, Gruyère. It’s where the iconic Cailler chocolate has been made since the late 19th-century, and is among the oldest chocolate factories in the world to still be in operation.
At the moment, chocolate lovers can visit the factory and take tours, and there’s already a museum on the history of Cailler. Guests can take a chocolate workshop to learn to make their own treats such as truffles, and of course, there are plenty of opportunities for tastings along the way.
Now, new plans could mean the chocolate factory will be just the start of the excitement for fans of the brand. While the current attraction is 2,000 m2, there are plans for it to be expanded to nearly 30,000m2, allowing for what its website bills as a “memorable sensory experience”. The plan is for a park that’ll take around four to six hours to explore, taking visitors on a “journey of discovery through cocoa”.
Around 400,000 visitors a year already visit the attraction, making it one of Switzerland’s most visited museums, and there are reports that the park could double this number in the first phase alone.
Plans also include a cable car to whisk visitors from the car park to the factory, and a ‘flying theatre’ that will allow for stunning views over the Swiss scenery. There will also be a huge cocoa greenhouse so visitors can see how chocolate is grown and harvested.
And if that’s not enough chocolate-themed fun, a new hotel will allow visitors to indulge their sweet tooth overnight. If the project goes forward, the first phase should be open by 2030.
Maison Cailler can be reached by train from Montreux, and even the journey itself has been designed for chocolate enthusiasts with a themed train that zips you across stunning Swiss landscapes. Most visitors from the UK fly to Geneva, just a 90 minute flight from the UK, with a number of services run by easyJet, TUI, and British Airways.
Broc itself is worth spending some time in, whether it’s in the winter when the snowy Alps are at their most beautiful, or during the summer when the mountains are lush and green. Explore the fairytale-like Château de Gruyères whose stone walls are covered in ornate oil paintings and treasures.
Just down the road another of the area’s famous exports is made. At La Maison du Gruyère you can explore a working cheese factory and sample this distinctive local product. You can even take a tour and see the huge wheels of cheese being ripened to perfection.
Have a story you want to share? Email us at webtravel@reachplc.com
Simon Hinchley, Executive Director for Airport Operations at Fly Doncaster said: “As we work towards reopening Doncaster Sheffield Airport, our focus is firmly on building a safe, efficient and operationally robust airport that is ready to serve a broad range of users from day one.”
In early 2025, the UK government revealed that £30million was being put towards its reopening.
More recently, a report for City of Doncaster Council’s cabinet announced that the cost of reopening the airport had risen to £193million.
Fly Doncaster said that when the airport reopens, it could see as many as four million passengers through its doors.
There has also been talks of a rail link to and from the airport that could have connections with the Lincoln Line and East Coast Mainline.
Prior to its closure, airlines like FlyBe, Wizz Air and TUI operated flights from Doncaster Sheffield.
As of yet, no airline has confirmed it will open base, but Doncaster East and Isle of Axholme Labour MP Lee Pitcher said last year that he was in talks with both Ryanair and TUI.
In July 2025, he told local media: “Yesterday, I chaired the latest meeting of the DSA Action Group, where we sat down with TUI’s UK & Ireland commercial director.
“It was a productive discussion, and we’ll continue to work withTUI, other key stakeholders, and push the Government to keep Doncaster Sheffield Airport firmly on the agenda.“
The airportis expected to be operational with passenger flights forsummer2028.
The airport closed back in 2022Credit: Alamy
Another airport that is in talks to reopen is Manston Airport,in Kent which once offered flights from the UK toEurope.
Passenger services stopped when KLM pulled out of the airport in 2014.
There have been talks to start commercial flights once again, but this could take longer to start.
Tony Freudmann – the public face of the site’s owners, RiverOak Strategic Partners toldKent Online: “We need, by the time we open, to have enough advance commitment from cargo operators to see that it is going to work.
“At that point, if we get the right approach from passenger carriers, wanting us to build a passenger terminal and base some aircraft here, we’ll go with that.”