The new Harry Potter series is being filmed in locations across the UK, including at a pretty market town that has been named ‘one of the happiest places to live’
This charming town has been used as a filming location for the new Harry Potter series(Image: Getty Images)
The trailer for the new Harry Potter TV series has been released, prompting excitement among wizards and muggles. The HBO series is being filmed in locations across the UK, including in a picturesque market town that has been ranked as ‘one of the happiest places to live’ in Great Britain.
The highly anticipated Harry Potter series, based on the beloved books by J.K Rowling, will launch onto our screens in Christmas 2026, with the first trailer released this week. Ahead of its arrival, film crews have been spotted in various locations around the UK, as we get ready to welcome a new cast in the hugely popular Harry Potter franchise and watch the magic unfold all over again.
Among the UK destinations set to be featured in the HBO series are London, Hertfordshire, Devon, and Cornwall. However, it came as a surprise to the residents of Skipton, in North Yorkshire, when Harry Potter film crews were spotted in the charming market town.
Skipton has often been dubbed the ‘Gateway to the Dales’, thanks to its position as the southern entrance to the Yorkshire Dales National Park, with its lush valleys and heather moorlands that stretch across more than 2,100 square kilometres. The market town is steeped in rich heritage, with a preserved 900-year-old medieval castle, so it’s no wonder it’s been used as a filming location for Harry Potter.
At the end of last year, Harry Potter film crews were spotted in Skipton, as an actor performed a spell with his wand on top of a rooftop along a terraced street. While various areas in Yorkshire have previously been used as filming locations, residents were thrilled that the Harry Potter production had arrived in the small town of Skipton.
One resident told the BBC: “We’ve had bits of filming before, but I was surprised that they’ve picked it for something as colossal as this, so I’ll be very excited to see the end result.”
The filming reportedly took place on Westmoreland Street in Skipton, but it’s unclear if any further filming was done in the area. Another local told the publication: “It’s always exciting to have film crews hanging around and maybe put Skipton a little bit more on the map than what it already is.”
While we’ll have to wait a little longer to see just how much of Skipton is featured in the series, with producers remaining tight-lipped about locations, the town is certainly worth a visit in its own right. The high street is packed with independent retailers and delightful cafés, while the town’s location along the Leeds and Liverpool canal provides picturesque walks for an idyllic day out.
The cobbled high street leads up to the historic Skipton Castle, and there are numerous eateries in the town, including Phoebe’s restaurant, The Cock & Bottle pub, and The Clubhouse café. But one of the town’s highlights is the award-winning Skipton Market, which is believed to be one of the oldest in the country.
The outdoor market has been running since medieval times and has earned considerable recognition as the ‘best small outdoor market’ in the national Great British Market Awards. Found on the High Street, Skipton Market takes place every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday from 10am to 4pm, selling everything from food and produce to fashion and arts and crafts from local traders.
Yet it’s the residents who truly benefit from the charming town, as Skipton was named the ‘happiest place to live in Great Britain’ by Rightmove in their annual Happy at Home Index at the end of last year. Its convenient access to nature and green spaces was ranked as the top factor by Skipton residents, and there’s no shortage of landscapes to explore.
Beyond the nearby Yorkshire Dales National Park, there’s Aireville Park, a nature reserve, Castle Woods, and breathtaking Skipton Moor. With its undeniable charm and status as a film set, Skipton is well worth a visit, whether that’s for a weekend break or a day out, and is conveniently located just an hour’s drive from Leeds.
Do you have a travel story to share? Email webtravel@reachplc.com
WASHINGTON — Minnesota officials sued the Trump administration on Tuesday for access to evidence they say they need to independently investigate three shootings by federal officers, including the killings of Renee Good and Alex Pretti.
The lawsuit claims that the federal government reneged on its promise to cooperate with state investigations after the surge of federal law enforcement in Minneapolis, and are seeking a court order demanding that the Trump administration comply.
“We are prepared to fight for transparency and accountability that the federal government is desperate to avoid,” Hennepin County Atty. Mary Moriarty told reporters.
The lawsuit marks an escalation in the clash between Minnesota leaders and the Trump administration over the investigations into the high-profile shootings by federal officers that sparked public outcry and protests. The Trump administration has suggested that Minnesota officials don’t have jurisdiction to investigate, but state officials insist they need to conduct their own probes because they don’t trust the federal government to investigate itself.
“There has to be an investigation any time a federal agent or a state agent takes the life of a person in our community,” Moriarty said.
The administration sent thousands of officers to the Minneapolis and St. Paul area for the immigration crackdown as part of President Trump’s national deportation campaign. The Department of Homeland Security considered its largest immigration enforcement operation ever a success but was staunchly criticized by Minnesota’s leaders who raised questions over officers’ conduct.
There continues to be fallout from Operation Metro Surge in the form of a Homeland Security shutdown, as Democrats in Congress hold up funding in an effort to secure restraints on Trump’s immigration agenda.
Minnesota’s lawsuit said the federal government is not permitted to “withhold investigative evidence for the purpose of shielding law enforcement officers from scrutiny where a State is investigating serious potential violations of its criminal laws, targeting its citizens, within its borders.”
Moriarty said Tuesday that the federal government “has adopted a policy of categorically withholding evidence,” calling the practice unprecedented and alarming. She said the lawsuit followed formal demands for evidence after the federal government blocked Minnesota investigators from accessing evidence related to the shootings.
In addition to the Pretti and Good cases, the lawsuit demands access to evidence in the case of Julio Cesar Sosa-Celis, who was shot and wounded in his right thigh by a federal agent in January.
Federal officials initially accused Sosa-Celis and another man of beating an Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer with a broom handle and a snow shovel. But federal prosecutors later dropped all charges against the men and authorities opened a criminal investigation into whether two immigration officers lied under oath about the shooting.
Emails seeking comment were sent to DHS and the Justice Department.
The Justice Department in January said it was opening a federal civil rights investigation into Pretti’s killing but has said a similar federal probe was not warranted in the killing of Good. The decision in Good’s case marked a sharp departure from past administrations, which moved quickly to investigate shootings of civilians by law enforcement officials for potential civil rights offenses.
Deputy Atty. Gen. Todd Blanche has said that the department’s Civil Rights Division does not investigate every law enforcement shooting and that there have to be circumstances and facts that “warrant an investigation.”
Moriarty has said a lack of confidence in the federal government’s review of these incidents makes the state’s independent investigations into the shootings, as well as officers’ actions during the immigration enforcement operation altogether, especially important. The county office received over 1,000 tips from the public on the shootings of Good and Pretti via an online portal they opened to collect evidence. Earlier this month, Moriarty initiated a second portal and said her office was investigating a number of incidents of potentially unlawful action by officers over the course of the immigration enforcement operation.
Fingerhut and Richer write for the Associated Press. Fingerhut reported from Des Moines, Iowa.
Best hot and sunny holidays in April including hotspots less than 4 hours from UK – The Mirror
Need to know
From Spain to the Caribbean, there are plenty of warm and sunny destinations perfect for April holidays – we take a look at the destinations you won’t want to miss.
There are plenty of hot and sunny destinations in April(Image: Getty Images)
Need to know: Seven hot destinations less than four hours from UK perfect for April getaways
April offers brilliant destinations less than four hours from the UK where temperatures start heating up.
Morocco delivers 25C days in Agadir and Marrakech, perfect for exploring markets and dining al fresco.
Malta offers flights from £30 and boasts Valletta, dubbed the ‘best city in the world’. The island features stunning landmarks and Game of Thrones filming locations.
Spain’s cities become ideal in April, with Seville hitting 24C and Madrid reaching 18C. It’s perfect weather for sightseeing and enjoying “a cheeky sangria in the sunshine!”
The Canary Islands offer 18-24C temperatures, ideal for hiking and nightlife as resorts come alive.
Greek islands like Santorini and Crete start opening up without summer crowds.
For serious heat, Thailand delivers 34-37C in dry conditions, perfect for poolside lounging in Phuket.
The Caribbean also offers great deals while avoiding monsoon season, with Barbados and Jamaica providing white sand beaches and adventures.
The attack on a teaching hospital in Al Deain, the capital of East Darfur state, has rendered the facility non-functional.
Published On 21 Mar 202621 Mar 2026
An attack on a hospital in Sudan’s Darfur region has killed at least 64 people, including 13 children, according to the head of the World Health Organization (WHO).
In a social media post, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said on Saturday that multiple patients, two female nurses and one male doctor were also among those killed in the attack on Al Deain Teaching Hospital in Al Deain, the capital of East Darfur state, on Friday night.
Another 89 people, including eight health staff, were wounded, he added.
The attack damaged the hospital’s paediatric, maternity, and emergency departments, rendering the facility non-functional and cutting off essential medical services in the city.
“As a result of this tragedy, the total number of fatalities linked to attacks on health facilities during Sudan’s war has now surpassed 2,000,” said Tedros, adding that over the nearly three-year conflict between Sudan’s army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), the WHO had confirmed the killing of 2,036 people in 213 attacks on healthcare.
There was no immediate information about who was behind the attack.
The war between the army and the RSF erupted in mid-April 2023, unleashing a wave of violence that has led to one of the world’s fastest-growing man-made humanitarian crises, with tens of thousands of people killed and more than 12 million forced from their homes.
Both sides have been accused of war crimes and crimes against humanity, while the RSF has been implicated in atrocities in Darfur that United Nations experts say bear the hallmarks of genocide.
“Enough blood has been spilled. Enough suffering has been inflicted,” Tedros said. “The time has come to de-escalate the conflict in Sudan and ensure the protection of civilians, health workers, and humanitarians.”
This year marks a veritable museum-palooza as Los Angeles debuts four new major arts complexes, with three in the wings likely to open in advance of the 2028 Summer Olympics.
Immerse yourself in a psychedelic explosion at Meow Wolf, plan an afternoon liaison with Van Gogh at LACMA’s new David Geffen Galleries, inhale the scent of nature inside Refik Anadol’s AI arts museum, Dataland, or simply geek out over George Lucas’ jaw-dropping collection of “Star Wars” memorabilia.
Whatever your arts craving may be, this astoundingly rich new lineup of new local museums has you covered.
LACMA’s David Geffen Galleries
The new David Geffen Galleries, opening in 2026, are composed entirely of Brutalist concrete.
(Christopher Knight / Los Angeles Times)
The Los Angeles County Museum of Art’s David Geffen Galleries are set to debut this April to members, before opening for general admission at the beginning of May. The $720-million Geffen Galleries will display 2,500-3,000 objects from LACMA’s collection.
The building, designed by Pritzker Prize-winning architect Peter Zumthor, is described by supporters as a “concrete sculpture” and will host 90 exhibition galleries across 110,000 square feet. The Wilshire Boulevard museum’s inaugural exhibition will organize artwork by the Pacific, Indian and Atlantic Oceans and the Mediterranean Sea instead of by medium or period.
“The idea is for you to make your own path — not to speak at you, but to let you wander like you would through a park or a place,” LACMA Director and Chief Executive Michael Govan said in an interview with The Times. “That change in attitude, and how the building is built, is really exciting.”
Some of the most-anticipated works on display include Georges de La Tour’s “The Magdalen With the Smoking Flame” (1640), Henri Matisse’s “La Gerbe” (1953) and Vincent Van Gogh’s “Tarascon Stagecoach” (1888).
Lucas Museum of Narrative Art
The gardens at the Lucas Museum, designed by Studio-MLA, on Monday, May 19, 2025.
(Jason Armond / Los Angeles Times)
After more than 10 years of anticipation, George Lucas and Mellody Hobson’s museum will open in Exposition Park this September. With over 10,000 square feet of galleries, the museum will feature a wide array of artwork and pop culture ephemera, including Lucas’ personal trove of “Star Wars” film franchise treasures, “Peanuts” comic strips, “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland” illustrations, a Richard Sargent painting and covers of the Saturday Evening Post.
Lucas donated his collection to curate the Lucas Archives, which, in addition to “Star Wars,” will encompass props and production art from Lucasfilm projects, such as the “Indiana Jones” franchise.
One of the museum’s defining features is its massive green-roof garden designed by Mia Lehrer and her landscape architecture firm Studio-MLA.
“This brings everything together,” Lehrer said in an interview with The Times. “Design, ecology, storytelling, infrastructure, community. It’s the fullest expression of what landscape can be.”
Meow Wolf
A work-in-progress piece set to be featured in Meow Wolf L.A. as seen during a walk through at the group’s warehouse in Santa Fe on Oct. 15, 2025.
(Gabriela Campos/For The Times)
Meow Wolf’s L.A. location will reimagine a ’90s movie theater with its takeover of the Cinemark at West L.A.’s Howard Hughes entertainment complex outside Culver City. Meow Wolf’s sixth permanent exhibition comes on the heels of the immersive art creator’s 52,000-square-foot psychedelic art installation in Las Vegas, which was disguised as a dystopian grocery store called Omega Mart and promptly went viral on TikTok.
Complete with sci-fi elements, a meditative space and a 30-foot-tall mushroom tower, Meow Wolf’s new location will open at the end of 2026. Although organizers have kept much of the exhibition under wraps, visitors can expect to be transfixed by a thoroughly Los Angeles tale.
“It’s cool that we’re creating a story about a pilgrimage, because L.A. is that for so many artists, especially people involved in storytelling,” Shakti Howeth, Meow Wolf‘s creative director, told The Times. “It’s one of those places that’s built on layers and layers of dreams, and we’re really exploring that here. Not only dreams but broken dreams — the compost that can happen when you digest broken dreams.”
Refik Anadol’s Dataland
Refik Anadol’s Infinity Room is meant to be a multisensory experience.
(Dataland)
Opening this spring at the Frank Gehry-designed Grand L.A., Dataland dubs itself the world’s first museum of AI arts. Turkish American artist Refik Anadol designed his own AI model, named the Large Nature Model, which only sources material with permission from original creators, making it what Anadol calls “ethical” AI. Partners include the Smithsonian and the Cornell Lab of Ornithology.
“I’m calling this new art form not AR, not VR, not XR — so we are still finding a name for it. The best name so far, and people love it, is generative reality,” Anadol told The Times.
Dataland will feature five galleries, including the Infinity Room, which Anadol first created in 2014 as a student at UCLA. In another exhibit, he trained an AI model on half a million scents and built a machine to push those scents into the gallery to create a totally immersive viewing experience.
Opening Later
The Armenian American Museum and Cultural Center of California
Slated to complete construction in downtown Glendale in late 2026, the 51,000-square-foot Armenian American Museum has been in the works for more than a decade. With a $67-million budget, the museum will include permanent and temporary exhibitions, as well as an auditorium, learning center, archives collection and a demonstration kitchen.
The museum is an initiative of the Armenian Genocide Centennial Committee Western US, and planning began as the group prepared to mark the the 100th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide in 2015. The museum is adorned with the 36 letters of the Armenian alphabet and a glass hazarashen skylight, inspired by traditional roofs in homes across the Armenian Highlands.
“The Armenian American Museum was once an idea, then a vision, and today is rising before our eyes,” museum Executive Chairman Berdj Karapetian said in a statement. “This progress is the result of an extraordinary collective effort by Armenians and non-Armenians here in California, across the United States and around the world.”
The Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center
The Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center in Los Angeles is a major expansion of the California Science Center.
(Myung J. Chun / Los Angeles Times)
A solid opening date has not yet been announced, but the $400-million Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center at the California Science Center in Exposition Park is busily preparing for liftoff. Construction on the building began in 2022. The shiny new building will be home to the Korean Air Aviation Gallery, Kent Kresa Space Gallery and the Samuel Oschin Shuttle Gallery, which will host the Space Shuttle Endeavour.
Endeavour will be displayed in launch position, making it the tallest authentic spacecraft displayed vertically in the world, with a height of 20 stories. One of three surviving space shuttles, Endeavour made 25 successful missions into space.
The center is also expected to have 20 planes and jets, including a Boeing 747, a mock flight deck and a pair of introductory films produced by J.J. Abrams’ company Bad Robot, one of which will end with a simulated launch.
“It is an amazing experience, and we want to really build it up,” Jeffrey N. Rudolph, president and chief executive of the California Science Center, told The Times. “It’s not just about the hardware but about the people and the educational aspects.”
The Broad Expansion
Exterior rendering of the future Broad expansion from Hope Street.
Opening in 2028, the Broad expansion will contain 70% more gallery space, two outdoor courtyards, a live programming space and views of the museum’s art storage vault. First announced in 2024, the $100-million addition is slated for completion before the 2028 Summer Olympics.
Located in downtown L.A., the expansion was deemed necessary after the museum significantly exceeded visitor projections. The new building will invert the existing Broad museum’s architectural design, with a smooth, gray structure attached to the original construction.
“The idea is that it adds new facets to the visitor’s journey through the expanded Broad,” said Joanne Heyler, founding director and president of the Broad, in an interview with The Times. “In a way, the existing building is always sort of talking to you. And there will be a similar thing happening with the expansion, but just a slightly different conversation, like you’re listening to its sibling.”
BRITISH AIRWAYS is launching two exciting new long-haul routes from the UK.
The airline is launching a route to Melbourne in Australia and Colombo in Sri Lanka.
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British Airways is launching two new long-haul flights and one is to Melbourne in AustraliaCredit: AlamyThe flights to Melbourne will be daily and launch on January 9, 2027Credit: Alamy
The Melbourne route will be launching on January 9, 2027 in time for the Australian Open and the Melbourne Grand Prix.
The flights will operate year-round from London Heathrow, via Kuala Lumpur, on a daily basis.
It will take off from Heathrow at 9:10pm and land in Kuala Lumpur at 6:05pm the next day.
The flight will then take off again at 7:45pm and land in Melbourne the following morning at 6:40am.
The return leg will start on January 11, taking off each day at 4:35pm and landing in Kuala Lumpur at 9:35pm.
The flight will then take off from Kuala Lumpur at 11:15pm and land back at Heathrow the following day at 5:20am.
Return flights will cost from £1,130 and go on sale on March 17.
Melbourne is the capital of Victoria and is Australia‘s second-largest city.
It was recently named the world’s best city by Time Out, with it scoring high among younger residents as well as for its food scene, art and culture scene nightlife.
When you are there you can explore the city’s lively arts scene in Fitzroy, where there are a number of vintage shops, record stores and cosy cafes.
The city often hosts major sporting events as well, such as Formula One.
Melbourne also loves its coffee, with a large café culture including hidden bars and restaurants.
Flights to Colombo in Sri Lanka will launch sooner, on October 23, 2026.
Flights to Colombo in Sri Lanka will also launch in October, operating three times a weekCredit: Alamy
The flights will operate three times per week on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from London Gatwick to Colombo.
The route will only operate during the winter though.
The flight will depart at 5:30pm each time, landing in Colombo the following day at 9am.
And the return leg – which starts on October 24 – will depart at 11am and land back at Gatwick at 5pm.
Return fares start from £620 and also go on sale on March 17.
Colombo is the capital of Sri Lanka and is known as a vibrant and bustling city.
Top things to do include heading to Pettah Market, which features different ‘zones’ for specific goods, including spices and textiles.
Make sure to explore the colonial-era buildings in the Fort area as well.
British Airways is also increasing flights to a number of other destinations including Cape TownCredit: Getty
Tuk-tuks are popular in the city too and are an experience in themselves.
In addition to the two new routes, BA is also boosting capacity on several routes including Cape Town in South Africa; Tokyo in Japan; Bridgetown in Barbados; Kingston in Jamaica and San Jose in Costa Rica.
Neil Chernoff, British Airways’ Chief Planning and Strategy Officer, said: ”We’re delighted to announce sizeable growth to our flying schedule for winter 2026, including two notable new destinations that I’m confident will prove popular with our customers.
“We’re also increasing services across several high-demand routes around the world.
“Together, these changes represent a significant investment in our long-haul leisure network, adding even more options and choice for our customers.”
Disneyland Paris is opening World of Frozen later this month and we got a first look at the brand new Frozen Ever After ride, as well as where you can meet the princesses and see Olaf
16:28, 16 Mar 2026Updated 16:58, 16 Mar 2026
Disneyland Paris is set to open its huge new World of Frozen land later this month – and I was lucky to get a sneak peek beforehand.
When Anna and Elsa open up the gates on March 29 in Walt Disney Studios Park (which will rebrand as Disney Adventure World on the same day), visitors will be treated to a host of exciting offerings in Arendelle.
That includes brand new ride Frozen Ever After (you can read my verdict on this one below), as well as meet and greets with both Anna and Elsa, interactions with a very impressive Olaf animatronic, and plenty more fun including a chance to hang out with Oaken ahead of his Big Summer Blowout, and chatting to the villagers to hear various fun tales from around the land.
There’s also a new restaurant, shows and heaps of Easter eggs for all Frozen fans. Here’s a rundown of everything you need to know about the new land – including my review of the new ride, and tips on where to actually meet the characters…
The new Frozen themed ride
For the first time (in forever), Disneyland Paris has a Frozen themed ride. ‘Frozen Ever After’ is a gentle boat ride where you sail through the Kingdom of Arendelle and head towards Elsa’s ice castle.
It’s definitely a family-friendly ride but be warned there are a few drops along the way that caught me off guard – including one particularly steep section which was a little more thrilling than I had expected! The ride has all of the makings of that Disney magic; beautiful sets, impressive animatronics, and all of the iconic songs that have become such a staple in most families’ households (whether parents like it or not).
I think overall it’s going to be a hit; it’s got enough of the original Frozen magic for the kids, but for parents it’s got a bit more thrill and fun to it as well. The queue itself also features plenty of little surprises and sets full of hidden gems that will no doubt keep kids entertained while they wait for their turn to board the boats.
Where to meet the characters
If you want to meet Anna and Elsa, you’re going to have to book in for the experience. I think the system could actually work out better for families; no need to spend hours in a queue, and you can actually plan your day around the meet and greet if it’s going to be very important for your kids to meet the Arendelle royals.
If you do manage to bag a slot, the overall experience is pretty intimate feeling. There’s a waiting hall adorned with paintings of Anna, Elsa and their parents, as well as a few paintings you might recognise from ‘For the First Time in Forever’. You wander along the halls of the royal palace before turning a corner into a private room where Anna and Elsa are ready and waiting to greet you. It’s a lovely experience overall, and as you’re the only ones in the room with the princesses and photographer, it means families will get some proper quality time with them all.
If you don’t book a slot, there are plenty of other character interactions throughout the land. Oaken can be found wandering around the land – and a simple ‘Yoohoo!’ call grabs his attention – or you can keep an eye out for the adorable baby troll Mossie who’s more than willing to have a natter. The Arendelle villagers are also around to chat to kids and share their favourite tales from the kingdom.
Even though I knew he was an AI-powered animatronic, he looked absolutely real – it’s a real feat of engineering. kids around us were in complete awe. Although it’s not a traditional ‘meet and greet’ with photos, you can watch him interact with a villager and the crowd, so it makes for a fun show. He’ll make his appearances throughout the day, so keep your eyes peeled!
New show and general atmosphere
The overall atmosphere at World of Frozen is just a lot of fun. A Celebration in Arendelle is a fun new show that takes place on the waters of the land’s bay, featuring Anna, Elsa, Olaf and Kristoff – another chance to get a glimpse of your favourites – with plenty of music and enchantment.
I was pretty blown away by the design of World of Frozen too; from the moment you walk up, you feel like you’re instantly transported into the films. The Nordic-inspired buildings, food and the instrumental takes on the film’s iconic soundtrack all come with a dose of that Disney magic, not to mention there’s so much attention to detail.
There are photo opps everywhere, but two main areas were a hit with the crowd when I was there; the first was the large ice-inspired fountain right by the entrance to the kingdom, and the second was in front of the entrance to ‘Frozen Ever After’, as you can get a picture with a mountainous backdrop that features Elsa’s ice castle too.
The food
World of Frozen has a brand new restaurant, the Nordic Crown Tavern. This quick service restaurant has a menu inspired by Scandinavian cuisine, featuring the likes of salmon, meatballs, quinoa and mashed potato.
Prices range from €12-€20 depending on what you choose, but the portions were pretty generous. I went for the vegan meatballs and mashed potato combination, and I was genuinely impressed at the quality – it left me feeling full up for most of the afternoon, but not so full that I couldn’t get a cheeky ice cream or two later!
The restaurant itself is full of charm, with portraits of the characters and paintings throughout, as well as hidden features (there’s a little cat that you can try and spot from the queue for the food), and it definitely felt like an extension of the rest of the land.
It’s only one part of Disney Adventure World
World of Frozen is undoubtedly the new land that’s got everyone excited, but it’s actually just one part of a much wider expansion for the theme park. Walt Disney Studios Park may be what Kristoff and friends would deem a ‘Fixer Upper’, but it’s being completed transformed into Disney Adventure World. That comes with heaps of fun new additions alongside the opening of World of Frozen.
This will include ‘Adventure Way’ where you’ll find another new ride; Raiponze Tangled Spin, a little bit like the teacups, inspired by the scene in Tangled where Flynn and Rapunzel sing ‘I See the Light’. There are also plenty of food stalls, fun interactions with the likes of Mickey, Peter Pan and Mary Poppins, and even a dance show featuring Rapunzel herself.
This is all laid out around a large lake which becomes the setting for the brand new ‘Cascade of Lights’ show at night. I won’t spoil too much, but let’s just say the drones, pyrotechnics and music were absolutely spectacular.
Package prices start from £129pp per night, based on a Disney Hotel Cheyenne & Ticket package for 2 adults and 2 kids staying four nights/five days, between July 31-August 28. Subject to availability. You can find out more and book at disneylandparis.com.
In a blow to Brits planning to get away for summer 2026, experts have revealed that the situation in the Middle East could cause holiday prices to rise, even in destinations not affected by the conflict
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Brits could find their usual break is more expensive this year(Image: Getty Images)
Brits planning to get away overseas for Easter or summer this year are being warned they may need to expand their budget, as holiday prices could rise across all destinations.
Hannah Mayfield, a qualified financial advisor, has explained that the situation in the Middle East could have a “knock-on effect” on prices, following similar patterns seen during times of instability. Even those who opt for a UK-based staycation, or visit countries nowhere near the Middle East, could see higher prices for flights, accommodation, and even everyday spending.
Hannah explained: “Rising tensions in the Middle East can have a knock-on effect on holiday costs, even if you’re travelling somewhere completely different. But this isn’t a new phenomenon. We’ve seen similar patterns during previous periods of geopolitical instability, where travellers change their plans and demand shifts toward destinations perceived as safer.”
Hannah, who is working with travel insurers PayingTooMuch, gave the reasons why flight prices could rise: “Airlines can face higher operating costs during periods of geopolitical instability. If flights need to avoid certain airspaces, routes can become longer. At the same time, global oil prices usually rise during conflicts in major energy-producing regions, and that can eventually feed through into the price for fuel. For travellers, that might mean more expensive plane tickets.”
And it’s not just overseas jaunts that could become more expensive. Hannah said: “There’s also the potential impact on taking holidays, especially to destinations closer to home. If some holidaymakers decide not to travel as far afield, demand for popular destinations such as coastal towns, national parks and major cities can increase.
“When that happens, accommodation prices often rise during peak periods, particularly if availability is limited.” This could mean that, like during Covid, staycations could become pricier.
If you’re planning a trip, even to ‘safe’ destinations, you Hannah advises: “When travel feels more uncertain making sure you have the right level of cover for your trip becomes even more important, so you are less likely to face unexpected costs. Booking early, staying flexible with travel dates, comparing travel insurance policies and prices for flights can make a noticeable difference to the overall cost of a trip.”
She also had this warning: “Most standard travel insurance policies don’t cover acts of war, so conflicts itself may not typically have a direct impact on premiums. However, travellers should always check their policy details carefully, so they understand exactly what is and isn’t covered.
“Consider getting a policy that offers additional cover for travel disruptions which can offer another layer of protection in situations where official government travel advice changes and costs can’t be recovered elsewhere. It’s also worth noting that travel insurance does not cover events that are already known at the time the policy is purchased.”
Hannah, who also runs What is Wealth, which offers financial education for women, also gave some additional money saving tips for holidaymakers: “Keeping an eye on exchange rates and fuel prices can also help holidaymakers budget more accurately and avoid unexpected costs closer to their trip.”
Have a story you want to share? Email us at webtravel@reachplc.com
THE world’s greatest places of 2026 have been named and there are two on the list from the UK.
TIME’s annual World’s Greatest Places list looks at everything from hotels and cruises to attractions and experiences.
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TIME’s World’s Greatest Places has included everything from hotels to attractionsCredit: APThe ew V&A East Storehouse in London was includedCredit: AlamyAn afternoon tea experience in Somerset was also namedCredit: Instagram/thenewtinsomerset
This year, this included Disney cruises, new museums and beautiful coastal regions, mainly looking at anything “new, exciting, and relevant”.
The museum’s collection is broken down into three ‘themes’ – items that have a story, items inspired by the V&A and items that show a working museum.
Having opened last years, TIME explained: “At a time when many museums’ permanent collections have so far outgrown their galleries that only a fraction of their holdings can ever be exhibited at once, the new V&A East Storehouse is taking a radically different approach.
“The real game-changer is theOrder an Object system, which lets guests search a digital catalog of more than half a million items and select up to five pieces to be pulled from the shelves and presented one-on-one by a museum staffer for up-close inspection during a future visit.
She said: “An element I loved was the lack of walls where you can see everything while standing in one spot.
“It almost reminded me of an IKEA warehouse with the simple plywood and metal structures and open concept.
“But the variation of items (of which there are 250,000) means there is something for everyone.”
It’s free to visit, with free lockers and an on-site cafe.
Also making the TIME top 100 list is The Maid of Somerset, a very fancy afternoon tea experience.
Guests enter the Creamery at Castle Cary Station, with the afternoon tea taking place in a “British Pullman style” saloon car.
TIME said: “Unlike the stereotypical snooty high tea, the Maid’s service is steeped in the good humor – and obsession with quality – that typifies Roos’ and Bekker’s projects.
“The friendly attendants prepare 11 loose-leaf teas – a mix of house blends and Prince & Sons selections – and serve finger sandwiches like cucumber and Waterlip, a tangy feta-style cheese made on site at the Creamery.
“A three-tiered sweets tower follows, featuring cardamom-scented orange cakes and scones paired with the Newt’s strawberry-rose preserves.”
The experience costs £35, or £45 with alcohol.
The experience takes place on a luxury trainCredit: Instagram/thenewtinsomersetThe Grand Egyptian Museum in Giza was also mentionedCredit: Alamy
WE are just days away from St Patrick’s Day and the UK is full of events to celebrate.
Even though St Patrick’s Day falls on a Tuesday (March 17), this weekend there are a number of events you can head to soak up the celebration.
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There are a number of St Patrick’s Day events across the countryCredit: Alamy
Some cities are hosting parades and others have more family-orientated events – so here are some of the best.
Belfast St Patrick’s Day Celebrations
Of course, it wouldn’t be this list without the capital of Northern Ireland.
St Patrick’s Day celebrations are spread across several days in Belfast, with a Music Festival from March 13 to 17, Celebrations at St George’s Market on March 14 and 15 and a parade on March 17.
When it comes to the parade on Tuesday, the streets will come alive with performers, music, dance troupes and community groups.
Also on Tuesday, visitors will be able to enjoy the St Patrick’s Day Festival Village between 1pm and 4pm at Belfast Cathedral Car Park.
The village is free to enter and will boast music, dancing, food and family activities.
London St Patrick’s Day Parade
This Sunday, March 15, London will host one of the largest St Patrick’s Day parades in the country.
Starting at 12pm and running until 6pm, the parade will follow a 1.5 mile route and feature carnival performers, musicians, dancers and marching bands.
There will also be lots of celebrations in Trafalgar Square that are free for the public to enjoy.
For kids there will be arts and crafts sessions and if you get hungry there will be plenty of food stalls around.
Manchester Irish Festival
Manchester Irish Festival will take place across several days with Irish art, comedy, dancing, music, sport and theatre performances.
The parade will take place on Sunday, March 15, starting at 12pm.
It will follow a route into the city centre.
From March 12, there will be the Irish Festival Village at St Ann’s Square, with live music every day, Irish-themed pizza and pints, of course.
For example, London has a 1.5mile parade and Manchester has a festival across several daysCredit: Alamy
Leeds St. Patrick’s Day
Leeds‘ annual St Patrick’s Day celebration will be on March 15.
The day will be full of entertainment but there isn’t a parade this year.
In a statement on social media, the team said: “The Leeds St Patrick’s Day Parade committee would like to inform you of an important change to this year’s festival day.
“Due to matters out of our control, we have had to make the decision not to have floats and walkers travel the parade this year.
“This is a decision which was not made lightly and we hope to have this aspect back next year – bigger and better than ever.
“However, we will still be celebrating St Patrick’s Day in Millennium Square.
“There will be lots of entertainment and displays in the square for all to enjoy.
“It is still set to be a brilliant day – so don’t miss out.”
There won’t be a parade in Leeds this year, but there is a day full of entertainmentCredit: Alamy
Birmingham St. Patrick’s Fun Day
On March 15, there will be a St Patrick’s Family Fun Day in Birmingham.
The event will take place at the Irish Centre, starting at 12pm.
There will be entertainment, activities, food, live bands and music.
For children, there will be a lot of fun to get stuck into including a funfair and face painting.
Meanwhile, parents can peruse stalls and have a go at the tombola.
If you want to grab a bite to eat, there will be Irish sausage baps as well as Fitzgerald’s Irish Store, which sells a range of Irish products.
Tickets to the event cost £10 per person, but children under the age of 10 go free.
In Birmingham, you can join a family fun dayCredit: Alamy
Cheltenham Festival St Patrick’s Thursday
If you happen to be at Cheltenham Festival on March 12, you will get to see St Patrick’s Thursday.
As the battle for the Prestbury Cup continues, attendees can also make the most of live music across six areas.
For example, The Tumbling Paddies will perform live in The Guinness Village.
Glasgow St Patrick’s Festival Family Fun Day
In Scotland, you can head to Glasgow‘s St Patrick’s Festival on March 14.
Running from midday to 5pm, the festival on Merchant Square will include live Irish music, face painting, a balloon artist and stalls with deals on holidays in Ireland.
There will also be a number of bars and restaurants involved in the event.
Can’t make March 14? On March 17 – actual St Patrick’s Day – head to the Grosvenor Cafe in Glasgow’s West End for live music, dancers, spice bags, pints and even a special appearance from Jedward.
Human Rights Watch says drone strikes by Haitian forces kill more than 1,200 people in and near Port-au-Prince since 2025.
Published On 10 Mar 202610 Mar 2026
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Drone strikes operated by Haitian security forces and private contractors have killed at least 1,243 people and injured 738 in Haiti, Human Rights Watch (HRW) reports.
Since March last year, Haitian security forces with support from Vectus Global, a United States-licensed private military firm, have carried out antigang operations using quadcopter drones strapped with explosives, often in densely populated parts of the capital, Port-au-Prince.
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The report found strikes from March 1, 2025, to January 21 in West Department, where Port-au-Prince is located, have killed 17 children and 43 adults not believed to be members of any criminal groups.
“Haitian authorities should urgently rein in the security forces and private contractors working for them before more children die,” Juanita Goebertus, Americas director at HRW, said in a statement.
The nonprofit said the number of drone attacks in Port-au-Prince, which is 90 percent controlled by gangs, has “significantly increased” in recent months, with 57 reported from November to late January, almost double that of the 29 attacks reported from August through October
HRW said its researchers analysed seven videos uploaded to social media or shared directly with the group that show quadcopter drones in action and geolocated four of them to Port-au-Prince.
“The videos show the repeated use of drones equipped with explosives to attack vehicles and people, some of them armed, but none who appear to be engaged in violent acts or pose any imminent threat to life,” the group said.
‘There are innocent people’
HRW said it did not find widespread drone use among criminal groups.
One of the attacks highlighted in the report occurred on September 20 in the Simon Pele neighbourhood, an impoverished community controlled by a gang of the same name.
The drone attack killed nine people, including three children, and injured at least eight as the leader of the Simon Pele gang prepared to distribute gifts to children in the area.
HRW quoted one unnamed resident as recalling how the explosion ripped both feet off a baby.
Among those killed was a six-year-old girl whose unidentified mother was quoted as saying: “In the spaces where the gangs are, there are innocent people, people who raise their children, who follow normal paths.”
The families of those killed said the criminal group organised and controlled access to their funerals, according to Human Rights Watch.
Last month, the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti said it had no indications the deaths and injuries were being investigated.
HRW said there was no evidence drones were being used widely by gangs. The UN’s high commissioner for human rights said in October that the drone strikes were disproportionate and likely unlawful.
Escape the UK’s unpredictable weather with these toasty March and April holiday destinations within easy reach of Britain — cheap flights and even cheaper pints, what’s not to love?
06:00, 10 Mar 2026Updated 08:20, 10 Mar 2026
Think fun in the sun as you swim in pristine waters surrounded by the most dramatic scenery(Image: e55evu via Getty Images)
With British weather continuing to swing between dreary downpours and (marginally) pleasant spring sunshine, holidaymakers are still hunting for getaway spots with guaranteed warmth and gentle breezes. That’s where we step in.
If you’re seeking holiday destinations within easy reach of Britain that are gloriously warm at this time of year, whilst remaining incredibly budget-friendly, look no further, because we’ve got you covered.
As the UK starts to shake off winter’s chill, we’ve compiled the finest options for a March-April escape in the meantime, with temperatures across these destinations hovering between 16C to 24C.
Travellers keen to beat the bag charges without breaking the budget have made an Amazon travel bag a bestseller. Rated 4.7 stars out of 5 from almost 3,000 reviews, the Xkdoai bag comes in six colours with prices from £14.99, saving 29% on the usual price.
Without further delay, here’s our selection of sunny destinations within easy reach of the UK you can explore in March and April without emptying your wallet, reports the Express.
La Graciosa
This diminutive Canary Islands treasure is remarkable in every respect – it features absolutely no tarmac roads owing to its heavily protected designation as the largest Marine Reserve in Europe and as a National Park, meaning there are no vehicles on this island whatsoever.
It’s the first hidden island on our list, and an absolute paradise for travellers yearning for tranquillity and isolation, with the island’s untamed, pristine and genuinely secluded nature ideal for those weary of overcrowded tourist hotspots and constant travel mayhem. Reaching La Graciosa couldn’t be simpler.
Take a direct flight from the UK to Lanzarote followed by a short ferry crossing to the island. At the time of writing, a direct one-way flight from London Stansted Airport to César Manrique-Lanzarote Airport on March 11 costs just £29.
From there, jump on a 30-minute ferry from the port of Órzola, which will carry you across to La Graciosa. Prices on this tiny island haven are affordable, with a pint of local beer costing around £2.
Caleta del Sabo, the island’s only village, is a must-see attraction during your stay and Playa de las Conchas is the island’s most celebrated beach.
The breathtaking sandy stretches of Playa de las Cocinas and Playa Francesa are also top-rated draws, providing magnificent views of the imposing Famara cliffs over in Lanzarote.
Del Ámbar, Del Salado, and De la Laja are among the other pristine beaches found on Graciosa. You can even indulge in a boat excursion to the neighbouring Isla de Lobos for some birdwatching.
Comino
The relatively unknown Maltese island of Comino, famous for its dazzlingly brilliant Blue Lagoon, is a gem hiding in plain sight, and our second under-the-radar secret island haven.
With no towns – and therefore no cars – visiting Comino is truly an experience like no other.
Considered a haven for swimmers, snorkellers, hikers and photographers – tourists are known to travel from around the world just to sample a slice of life in this deserted paradise.
To get to Comino, travellers can fly into Malta International Airport – a one-way flight from London Stansted Airport to Malta International Airport on 12 March would set holidaymakers back £51 – and then from mainland Malta, you can hop on one of the regular ferries from Cirkewwa Ferry Terminal, which will whisk you off to Comino in roughly 35 minutes.
As for beverages, pints on Comino can cost anywhere between £2.60 to £4.
Undeniably, the crown jewel of Comino – and arguably the entire Maltese archipelago – is the world-renowned Blue Lagoon, enticing visitors with its pristine white sands and shimmering turquoise waters all year round.
Santa Marija Bay, nestled on the quieter side of Comino, offers a serene beach, shallow waters and none of the tourist throngs found at the Blue Lagoon.
The Santa Marija Caves are another major draw on this island, and trekking up to the iconic Santa Marija Tower is a favourite pastime.
Gran Canaria
Often described as a ‘miniature continent’ due to its near-circular shape, Gran Canaria offers affordable flights, with a direct one-way flight on 13 March (including one carry-on bag) from London Luton Airport to Gran Canaria Airport priced at £29 at the time of writing.
A pint of beer in many spots across Gran Canaria will only set you back £2, and if that’s not tempting enough – there are numerous pubs offering the famed Canary Islands Happy-Hour €1 pints, which equates to roughly £0.87.
Las Alcaravaneras and Las Canteras, sandy beaches bordering Las Palmas – Gran Canaria’s biggest city, are major tourist attractions catering extensively to holidaymakers.
Additional popular beaches across the island include Maspalomas, Playa del Inglés, San Agustín, Amadores, and Puerto de Mogán. The bustling tourist destination of Puerto Rico is also essential viewing for those wanting a vibrant atmosphere.
Anfi del Mar, Playa de Taurito, and Meloneras Beach are equally excellent choices for visitors to explore.
Roque Nublo, the 80-metre volcanic monolith rock is a major draw for hikers, whilst the ‘Dragon’s Tail’ in the Tamadaba Natural Park offers unrivalled panoramic vistas of the island in the north west.
Charming villages such as Tejada, Artenara, Fataga, and beautiful towns including Santa Lucía de Tirajana and Agüimes are equally worth exploring.
Natural pools, secluded coves off dramatic coastlines, untamed beaches, and vibrant cities – Gran Canaria offers everything.
Lanzarote
As the fourth biggest island in the perpetually popular Canary Islands in Spain, Lanzarote is a breathtaking destination.
Boasting black sand beaches in one area and a rocky landscape in another, the island’s terrain features the Famara mountain ranges in the north and Ajaches to the south.
At the time of writing, a direct one-way flight from London Stansted Airport to César Manrique-Lanzarote Airport on March 11 was just £29, and pints will set you back just £1.30 on this tropical paradise. Lanzarote’s all-inclusive resorts are a massive hit with budget-conscious holidaymakers, with luxurious options available for those looking to indulge.
The island’s unique landscape is another magnet for tourists – boasting mountains, vast craters, red terrain, black sand beaches, crystal clear turquoise waters, white sands, and the cherry on top; an active volcano named Mount Timanfaya which features lava fields formed centuries ago.
When it comes to leisure activities, there’s a wealth of options on this compact island, with activities such as surfing, scuba diving, kiteboarding, and windsurfing popular amongst visitors. Lanzarote also boasts numerous family-friendly beaches, particularly suitable for young children.
Gozo
Despite its small size, Gozo delivers in spades. The island can be accessed via various routes – initially by flying to Malta’s main international airport, then either taking a short yet scenic 25-minute ferry from Cirkewwa Terminal in northern Malta or a 45-minute ferry from the stunning capital Valletta to Gozo.
At the time of writing, a one-way ticket from London Stansted Airport to Malta International Airport on March 12 cost £51. The best part?
Drinks in Gozo are reasonably priced – chilled pints of delicious local beer for just £1.80.
Ramla Bay, regarded as one of Gozo’s best beaches, is a popular attraction, whilst the gantija temples, among the world’s oldest and best-preserved free-standing structures, are must-sees.
The Ta’ Kola Windmill stands as another significant landmark on the island, whilst the Cittadella, Gozo’s recently refurbished historic settlement at the heart of the island’s capital Victoria (Rabat), is another essential destination should you travel to this magnificent retreat.
It’s not just spectacular views on offer in Gozo, as the island also boasts four Michelin guide restaurants – Tmun, Level Nine at The Grand, Al Sale, and Ta’ Frenc.
The culinary and wine scene in Gozo is unmatched, with food and wine tours proving a popular activity amongst visitors.
For those wanting distinctive experiences, look no further than the traditional milking of sheep and goats in Gozo, which is then transformed into traditional Gozitan cheese.
For activity fans, clifftop hiking, kayaking and cycling are superb options for a perfect day out.
Fuerteventura
The oldest island in the Canary Islands Archipelago, Fuerteventura is genuinely stunning. Recognised as an ideal destination for watersports, especially for those passionate about surfing, waterskiing, and windsurfing, this exotic Spanish island embodies sun-drenched enjoyment.
A direct one-way flight from London Luton Airport to Fuerteventura Airport on March 15 costs just £29, and pints are reasonably priced at £1.70 on this vibrant island. With a staggering 152 individual beaches, this Canary Islands jewel boasts a unique landscape.
Some of Fuerteventura’s top beaches include Playa de Sotavento, Playas de Corralejo, Playas de El Cotillo, Playa de Cofete, Playas de Jandia, and Playa de Ajuy.
Popular resort destinations such as Corralejo, Caleta de Fuste and El Cotillo draw in hordes of tourists, with Corralejo’s historic quarter exuding authentic Spanish charm through its narrow lanes, tapas bars and seafood eateries.
The area is particularly renowned for the Corralejo Dunes, while the Calderón Hondo volcano trail is just a stone’s throw away, offering breathtaking panoramic views.
Family-oriented Caleta de Fuste boasts an upscale marina and traditional markets, making it a must-visit on any Fuerteventura itinerary.
El Cotillo is a charming, bustling fishing village famed for its surfing conditions and serene lagoon, whilst the secluded Cofete Beach and the ancient Ajuy Caves are also must-see attractions on the island.
Madeira
Madeira is a truly awe-inspiring destination offering a plethora of activities and experiences for travellers to indulge in, and getting to the island is remarkably straightforward.
A direct one-way flight from London Luton Airport to Madeira Airport on March 16 costs £43 at the time of writing, whilst the average price of a pint of beer is around £2.10.
Often dubbed the ‘Pearl of the Atlantic’, this small Portuguese volcanic island certainly deserves its glowing reputation, with one social media user calling it “unfairly beautiful”, whilst another labelled it “Europe’s Hawaii”.
Calheta Beach and Machico Beach rank amongst the island’s most popular destinations, whilst the Natural Pools of Porto Moniz represent another jewel in this Portuguese island’s collection – and undoubtedly its most famous attraction.
Another essential location in Madeira is Seixal Beach – a stunning natural black sand beach celebrated for its striking lush green setting, towering cliffs and the tumbling waterfall, Miradouro do Veu da Noiva, which flows straight into the sea and presents a magnificent spectacle.
Funchal, the lively historic capital of Madeira, proves a major attraction, with the city famous for the Old Town (Zona Velha), Monte Cable Car & Toboggan Ride, the Monte Palace Tropical Garden, and the Mercado dos Lavradores market.
The Laurissilva of Madeira is a 20-million year old forest praised for its incredible biodiversity, and a walk along its woodland paths is essential. Pico do Areeiro – Madeira’s third-tallest peak represents another unmissable spot, especially for keen hikers.
The trek from Pico do Areeiro to Pico Ruivo delivers an exciting mountain expedition, connecting the island’s three loftiest peaks whilst providing unforgettable panoramas.
A nod to Madeira’s famous wine is unavoidable, with Funchal, the town of Câmara de Lobos, and the adjacent island of Porto Santo celebrated as the premier destinations for wine tastings and vineyard excursions.
Tenerife
Those visiting this breathtaking island can enjoy palm-lined beaches, dramatic volcanoes, enchanting landscapes, verdant forests, and mouth-watering cuisine – all during a single holiday.
The white sand, 1.3-kilometre-long Playa de las Teresitas beach remains a firm favourite with holidaymakers, as does the 850-metre long golden sand expanse of Playa de las Vistas.
Playa Jardin beach with its volcanic black sand also draws those wanting something distinctive during their coastal getaway.
Direct flights to this sun-drenched holiday island are wallet-friendly – at the time of writing, a one-way flight from London Luton Airport to Tenerife South Airport on March 24 was priced at £27 with one free cabin bag allowance, whilst pints cost just £1.30 on average.
The sophisticated Playa del Duque is ideal for upscale dining and relaxed family activities, whilst the sprawling natural beach of Playa de la Tejita provides stunning views of Montaña Roja aka the Red Mountain.
The secluded cove of Playa de Abama is celebrated for its golden sands and excellent snorkelling, and arguably, Tenerife’s most magnificent beach, Playa de Benijo is perfect for an isolated retreat surrounded by nature, remarkable cliffs and gorgeous black sand.
The south-west coastline of Tenerife, especially the area between Los Gigantes, Costa Adeje, and Los Cristianos, is renowned for dolphin and whale watching, while a visit to the Teide National Park and the Corona Forestal Natural Park is absolutely essential.
The colonial town of San Cristobal de la Laguna provides a unique retreat within Tenerife, whilst the island’s capital, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, acts as the lively heart of this sun-drenched paradise.
IF YOU are thinking about where to visit on your next UK staycation, 17 UK cities have just been named among the best in Europe.
A report revealing Europe‘s best cities for 2026 has been released and 17 UK cities feature including the ‘Athens of the North’, one of the best cities in Europe for weather and the UK’s ‘newest second city’.
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London has been named the best city in EuropeCredit: Alamy
Cities across Europe were ranked across several categories using data from numerous sites such as social media and core statistics.
The categories include Livability, which looks at things such as biking options, public transport, air quality and green spaces; Lovability which looks at Instagram posts, theatres, museums and reviews and Prosperity, which looks at airports, business systems and universities – here are all of the UK entries.
London – 1st
Coming out on top of all 100 cities, is the UK’s capital – London.
Dubbed the ‘Capital of Capitals’, London secured the top position in three of the 34 subcategories, which was the most out of any city, including Prosperity and Lovability.
The index states: “London’s magnetic appeal continues to draw a global audience, from students and entrepreneurs to tourists and corporate titans.”
The report notes how London & Partners’ Tourism Vision has set ambitious goals of making London the most visited, sustainable and diverse global city destination by 2030.
Laura Citron, CEO of London & Partners said: “2026 is another year to watch for London, as the capital city undergoes major growth and transformation including the opening of two major museums (London Museum and V&A East), new theatres and world-first events like Pro Climbing League.
“London is truly Europe’s global city: with a trillion-dollar economy, more green space than any city on the continent and unrivalled connections to the rest of the world.”
Edinburgh – 23rd
The capital of Scotland is the second location in the UK to feature on the list, with the index noting how it is “rich with history” and “ambitiously planning for the future“.
Dubbing it the “Athens of the North”, the index commended Edinburgh for its work to become net-zero by 2030.
In in particular, it highlighted how it is the second-most visited city in the UK after London thanks to its “cinematic views, among the freshest air in Europe (fourth for Air Quality), an array of sights (including its famed castle), and a happening citizenry that puts on the world’s premier Fringe Festival each year”.
The city is also planning 17 more hotels by 2028 as it prepares to host the start of the Tour de France in 2027.
Edinburgh came in 23rd place on the tableCredit: Alamy
Manchester – 27th
Naming Manchester “England‘s worker bee city”, the report highlights how the city boasts both industrial history and literary history as a UNESCO City of Literature.
The city’s opening of the 23,500-seat Co-op Live arena in 2024 – the largest indoor arena in the UK – has helped Manchester attract one million fans in less than a year.
In addition, the city was noted for its regeneration projects such as Old Trafford and its expansion of its airport, ranking it in the top five for connectivity in Europe.
Other top things to do in the city include heading to The Lowry which houses L.S. Lowry’s paintings and exploring Gothic architecture such as the John Rylands Library.
Glasgow – 51st
Described as “Scotland’s artful, urban heart”, Glasgow placed 51st.
The vibrant city that is the home of Scottish Opera, Ballet and the National Theatre of Scotland is a former European Capital of Culture.
It is also a top city for music and its tourism is on the rise, with around five million overnight visitors staying in the city in 2024, a 20 per cent increase from 2023.
If visiting the city, make sure to head to its free museums like the Burrell Collection and do a bit of shopping on Buchanan Street.
Glasgow placed 51st being noted at “Scotland’s urban, artful heart”Credit: Alamy
Bristol – 56th
Highlighting its creative industry, the report named Bristol in 56th place.
Stand out features of the city include the opening of the YTL Arena at Brabazon Hangars in 2028, which will be on the city’s former Filton Airfield which was once home to Concorde.
The venue will include a festival hall, community hub, food hall, work spaces and leisure facilities.
If heading to the city, make sure to explore the street art and try and look out for pieces by Banksy…
Bristol – which has a great street art scene – placed 56thCredit: Alamy
According to the report, few cities entertain like Birmingham does, “where classic pubs and underground clubs power a happening nightlife scene, ranked 23rd in Europe”.
And the city has a number of new projects in the works include the Powerhouse Stadium, which will be a 62,000-seat arena and the future home of Birmingham CityFootball Club.
If you love chocolate, make sure to visit Cadbury World.
Liverpool – 66th
The city of Liverpool placed 66th on the table with its cultural quarters and regeneration works noted.
Projects in the city include the regeneration of the North Docks and the revitalisation of the city’s International Slavery Museum.
The city’s nightlife is also great, with a range of pubs and bars scoring it 16th best for nightlife in Europe.
If you are a fan of The Beatles, you can head to The Beatles Story, which is the world’s largest permanent exhibition dedicated to the band.
Oxford – 68th
The historic university city of Oxford came in at 68th.
Under an hour from London on the train, Oxford is home to Europe’s best university.
In addition the report noted how the city is “an understated green space gem” with several connections to famous literary figures such as CS Lewis and JRR Tolkien.
Many of the historic buildings in the city and on the university campus offer tours such as the Bodleian Library and Radcliffe Camera.
The historic city of Oxford is just under an hour from LondonCredit: Alamy
Leeds – 71st
In 71st place is Leeds – described as being “ripe for fun and investment”.
Currently, the city is undergoing a massive terminal expansion at its airport to accommodate visitor demand.
And the city has a number of other visitor-focused projects, with Premier Inn opened a 143-room hotel atop Leeds City Market.
When in the city, visit the Victorian Corn Exchange to discover independent boutiques.
Leeds is “ripe for fun and investment”Credit: Alamy
Sheffield – 82nd
The city that George Orwell once called “the ugliest town in the Old World” is now “Yorkshire’s brainy, prosperous hub” according to the report.
Placing 82nd, the report celebrates Sheffield for its “glassy university centres, myriad green spaces, and some of the cleanest air in Europe (32nd)”.
Close to the city, you can also head to the Peak District National Park for walks and amazing views of the countryside.
Nottingham – 83rd
One place behind Sheffield is Nottingham in 83rd place.
The city is currently undergoing a number of ambitious projects including the development of the €1.61billion Island Quarter, which will feature restaurants, an events hall and homes.
As the “Home of English Sport”, the city also has a plethora of great pubs to explore.
Make sure to check out the City of Caves when in Nottingham – it boasts over 800 caves hand-carved into the sandstone.
Nottingham is home to 800 hand-carved cavesCredit: Alamy
This year, the seaside city will see the reopening of Hilsea Lido as well as a number of other coastal projects that will create more green spaces and public areas.
Also this year, Portsmouth 100 will kick off to celebrate the century of the destination being a city.
It will be a year-long celebration with a number of exhibitions and events.
Coventry – 98th
Securing 98th place is Coventry, with “the third-best weather in Europe”, according to the report.
The city is currently working on a City Centre project as well, which should create a new district in the heart of the city.
One top spot to explore in the city are the ruins of the Cathedral.
Coventry has “the third-best weather in Europe”Credit: Alamy
Cardiff – 99th
Coming in at 99th is Cardiff, which according to the report could be the UK’s new second city.
Being the closest European capital to London via train (under two hours), the city has a lot to offer including mountains, beaches and castles.
And the city’s station will start a massive rebuild this year set to cost €162million.
The city is also home to a number of recent projects including the regeneration of Cardiff Bay and The Bay Wetlands.
Another new project is Atlantic Wharf which will feature new homes, hotels and an indoor arena set to open in 2028m along with a 120-room floating hotel.
Newcastle – 100th
Last but not least and securing the final spot on the table, is Newcastle.
Just two-and-a-half hours from London by train, Newcastle features a number of new attractions.
For example, you can head to Freight Island, with street-food and events.
EasyJet has also launched a new base at Newcastle Airport, adding 11 flight routes.
Top 10 cities in Europe
ACCORDING to the report on the Best Cities in Europe for 2026, here are the top 10 spots:
For example, in London, children aged between two and 15 that are dressed as a book character get a free 30-minute ride on the London Eye, from March 7 to 10.
And over at Battersea Power Station, there is A Station of Stories festival, which will be a year-long celebration.
As part of the event, this World Book Day weekend there will be a number of events.
Visitors can step into the world of Mr Men Little Miss through interactive activities including a treasure hunt, for example.
There will also be other free creative workshops across the weekend and the chance for kids to meet their favourite book characters.
If you are based in or near Manchester, then you can head off on the Manchester Literature Trail which explores multiple venues across the city and informs participants of Manchester’s literary history.
A map for the trail can be downloaded online.
St. Patrick’s Day, various
St Patrick’s Day falls on March 17 this year and across the week there will be events all over the country.
For example, you could head to the parade in Digbeth, where there will be floats, marching bands and of course, a lot of green.
The parade is taking place on March 15 on Digbeth High Street.
St Patrick’s Day parades will be happening up and down the country around the middle of the monthCredit: Alamy
One of the world’s largest celebrations outside of Ireland will take place in London with a parade starting from Hyde Park Corner at 12pm on March 15.
There will be a free event at Trafalgar Square too, with live Irish music, dancing and food stalls.
In Manchester Irish Festival Parade, which is the biggest outside of London, there will be 30 floats and marching bands, and it will take place on March 15.
Earth Hour, London
For something a little different, head into central London on March 28.
For one hour, in the evening, London will switch off its lights for the World Wildlife Fund’s Earth Hour to raise awareness about the impacts of global warming.
Households can take part too, but it might be your only chance for a year to see the famous sights of London go dark.
Southend City Day celebrates the destination getting a city status in 2022Credit: Alamy
Southend City Day
Southend City Day takes place on March 7 and celebrates Southend getting city status in 2022.
The event will involve a number of performances, workshops and family-friendly activities such as face painting and pig races…
For example, there will be a stage at the top of the high street which will host performances by local dancers and youth music groups.
Fancy seeing something sparkle? In the evening make sure to catch Disco City’s light installations that will stretch across Royal Square and Pier Piazza.
For classic car fans, make your way to City Beach where there will be a lineup of parked classic cars over 25 years old between 11am and 4:30pm.
River Race, London
On March 28, you can head down to the Thames to watch the River Race.
Now this isn’t the Oxford versus Cambridge race (that happens in April), but during this River Race you will see up to 400 teams of eight racing down the river.
The Six Nations is still on and honestly, is there a better excuse to go to the pub?Credit: Alamy
Six Nations, various
The rugby isn’t quite over yet which means you still have time to catch a game with your friends.
Lots of pubs up and down the country show the matches on their TVs, or you could head somewhere like The Old Crown in Digbeth, which has large outdoor screens, a heated garden and live DJs.
If you are in the capital, make your way to Walthamstow’s Big Penny Social – which is supposedly the biggest beer hall in the UK spanning across 2,415sqm.
Entry is free, though you will need to pay for a tipple if you want one from one of the 20 taps of beer on offer…
For something a little more unusual, head to Battersea Barge, where each match is being shown on the lower deck via a large projector.
It is free to attend, though if you do pre-purchase a £1 ticket you can grab a free pint of Camden Hells on arrival.
A number of venues show the matches on large screensCredit: Alamy
National Lottery Open Week, various
Between March 7 and 15 – so spanning both this weekend and next – hundreds of attractions that you usually have to pay entrance to across the UK, are opening for free or less than the usual admission fee.
If you are based down in Cornwall, or perhaps visiting for Mother’s Day weekend, then head to the Eden Project which is slashing its entrance fee.
Or perhaps you’re a history fan? Well, then venture to one of the many English Heritage properties across the UK scrapping entrance fees for the week.
Examples of properties include Audley End House and Gardens and Eltham Palace.
Head to the National Lottery Open Week’s website and enter your postcode to see attractions and destinations near you.
Between March 7 and 15, it is also National Lottery Open Week meaning you can get into a lot of attractions across the country for freeCredit: Alamy
St Piran’s Day Lantern Parade, Cornwall
Have you ever wanted to experience a moment like that scene in Tangled where they are on the lake watching hundreds of lanterns venture into the sky?
Then get down to Helston’s St Piran’s Day Lantern Parade on March 7.
The event begins at 5:30pm with live music at Helston Boating Lake and Coronation Park and then the lantern parade will begin at 6:30pm.
Members of the public including school groups show off their handcrafted lanterns, alongside installations by City of Lights.
In Cornwall, there will be a lantern parade with family activities this monthCredit: Gorsedh Kernow
On The Line: 100 Years of Solidarity and Strikes, Manchester
Launching this month at the People’s History Museum in Manchester is a new exhibition which takes visitors on a journey through a century of industrial relations.
The exhibition begins with the 1926 General Strike and then addresses key moments throughout the past century of communities facing poor working conditions.
It also delves into the impact strike action has on society and will start on March 21.
A one-off reunion episode brought back a number of stars from the tenth series months after the E4 show ended
Samantha King Content Editor
22:30, 01 Mar 2026
The Series 10 cast got back together again for one last reunion(Image: E4)
The stars of Married At First Sight UK’s tenth season reunited for one final time in an explosive reunion episode that aired this evening (March 1).
The dramatic season concluded back in November last year, and while a number of couples made it to their final vows on the show, nearly all of them separated after filming ended. Just one couple from the series are still together, Abigail Lindsay and John Shepherd.
There was no shortage of tears and clashes as the cast got back together, and there was even an unexpected new feud. So what were the biggest revelations that came during the episode?
Bailey had a fling with April’s best friend
April and Rebecca were frosty with each other from the start following the revelation that Rebecca’s ex, Bailey, slept with April’s best friend at a music festival.
Rebecca claimed April had broken ‘girl code’ by not informing her about what had happened straight away. After April pulled Rebecca for a chat to attempt to smooth things over, the conversation took a sour turn.
April was left in tears after Rebecca told her: “I don’t dislike you, I would just never associate with someone like you,” elaborating: “I’m treating you like the opposite of a girls’ girl, which is what you are.”
Bailey ended things with Rebecca
Fans had long questioned who had ended things with who when news of Bailey and Rebecca’s split was made public. The pair had been loved-up on the show and were even planning a huge move to be together permanently, with Rebecca planning to uproot her life in Liverpool to join Bailey and his daughter down south.
Rebecca revealed that she was on the verge of moving when Bailey ended things with her following a tense holiday to Dublin. She admitted she had been actively in conversation with an aesthetics clinic as she prepared to move her business.
Bailey recalled he had tried to split up with her twice before they finally parted. He said: “I couldn’t breathe without her telling me off for doing something.” He claimed it felt like “she was sabotaging the relationship.”
Rebecca was texting her ex
Bailey reluctantly revealed at the dinner table a private conversation that he had with Rebecca in the car ride home following their final vows on the show which he felt caused him to change afterwards.
He told the group: “Why did I change? I changed because after final vows I feel like you lied to me because of what you told me in the car on the way home.”
He continued: “You said ‘I’m so sorry I’ve got to tell you something. During the show, I was messaging my ex’ – and you didn’t tell me until after final vows.” Rebecca insisted the messages were never flirty, and that her ex simply didn’t know she was on the show.
Maeve and Julia-Ruth are civil
Maeve and Julia-Ruth had one of the fiercest feuds on their season, especially after Julia-Ruth got a matching tattoo with Maeve’s ex. Despite their past, the pair were smiling and laughing together as they met at the reunion.
Both decided to bury the hatchet and found common ground in navigating life in the public eye.
Dean is dating again
Viewers were delighted to see Dean giving up on his unrequited love for Sarah and moving forward with his dating life. He shared that he had been on a couple of dates since the series wrapped, and he still shares a solid friendship with his former flame.
He even had the support of Sarah who danced as he delivered a signature rap at the dinner table, despite her previously considering his rapping an ‘ick’ when they first met.
All episodes of Married At First Sight UK are streaming now on Channel 4’s catch-up service.For the latest showbiz, TV, movie and streaming news, go to the new **Everything Gossip** website.
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