THE list of the richest celebs in the world has been revealed — and it’s good news for Taylor Swift.
The US superstar’s net worth has soared since she was named a billionaire in 2023, and she is now worth twice that.
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Taylor Swift has DOUBLED her net worth and is now worth $2billionCredit: GettyFellow star Rihanna is also a billionaireCredit: Savage X Fenty
She has risen from No9 last year to No7 in Forbes magazine’s annual rundown, which revealed there are now 22 celebrity billionaires — up from 18 last year.
Fellow singer Beyonce, tennis ace Roger Federer, rapper Dr Dre and filmmaker James Cameron are the new additions who have crossed the $1billion threshold.
Taylor, 36, boosted her earnings massively with profits from her record-breaking Eras Tour and the value of her music catalogue, all of which she now owns, having bought back the rights to her first six albums last year.
She is said to have amassed $1billion from royalties and touring, while her catalogue of hits has been valued at $900million.
The Eras 149 gigs across 21 countries from March 2023 to December 2024, made it the highest-grossing tour of all time at $2.077billion, with 10MILLION attendees.
Thanks to the money-spinning shows, she was able to buy the rights to her first six albums.
In 2019 Taylor’s former label, Big Machine, had sold the masters to talent manager Scooter Braun, prompting Taylor to vow to re-record them.
Braun sold them on to LA investment fund Shamrock Holdings in 2020.
But last May she announced she finally controls all her music.
Taylor said last year: “That’s how I spent that Eras Tour money. My fans are why I was able to get my music back.”
The rights to the records had been sold for more than $300million, although it is not known how much she spent to reclaim them.
But she is believed to have made an eight-figure sum in profits from the “Taylor’s Version” remakes of Fearless, Red, Speak Now, and 1989 — which all topped the charts.
She also owns $100million of real estate, including pads in New York, Beverly Hills, Rhode Island and Nashville.
The news coincides with new figures from the British Phonographic Industry, which reveal CD sales in the UK returned to growth in 2025, up 3.1 per cent, largely thanks to 226,000 copies of Taylor’s latest album The Life Of A Showgirl being sold here.
She also contributed to the 19.9 per cent year-on-year rise in vinyl purchases, thanks to 147,000 sales of the record on the format.
It meant The Life Of A Showgirl sold the most vinyl of any new album in a calendar year this century. Her 2023 collection Lover (Live From Paris), which was reissued last year, was also the fourth biggest vinyl of 2025.
Taylor has now scored six No1 singles and 14 No1 albums, beating Madonna’s record of 12 chart toppers for a female artist.
Taylor’s huge net worth dwarfs that of her American football star fiancé Travis Kelce, 36, whose riches total $90million.
The two are expected to marry this summer in a glittering, star-studded ceremony in the US.
Yesterday Travis hinted Taylor has started working on new music for a potential 13th studio album.
He said: “It’s amazing to see her keep going to the table, keep finding new things to write about, keep finding new melodies and things like that.
“On top of that, still seeing her have that love and joy in what she does.
“Of course that’s motivating. That’s motivating for anybody to see, let alone in my fiancée, and knowing that I’m going through something as I try to figure out what the future holds for me.
“Something like that motivates me.”
1. Steven Spielberg
$7.1bn
79-year-old Spielberg earns an estimated $100million annuallyCredit: Getty
THE highest-grossing director of all time, 79-year-old Spielberg earns an estimated $100million annually from gross ticket sales thanks to a 1987 deal.
2. George Lucas
$5.2bn
Star Wars creator George LucasCredit: Getty
THE Star Wars creator, 81, kept the merchandising rights and ownership of the hit sci-fi franchise and in 2012 sold his firm LucasFilm to Disney for $2.2billion plus shares.
3. Michael Jordan
$4.3bn
Basketball legend Jordan made $2billion from corporate dealsCredit: Getty
BASLETBALL legend, 63, made $2billion from corporate deals.
In 2023 he sold majority stake in NBA team Charlotte Hornets, valued at $3bn.
4. Vincent McMahon
$3.6bn
Businessman Vincent McMahon is worth $3.6bnCredit: Getty
BUSINESSMAN, 80, made sports promotion firm World Wrestling Entertainment – WWE – a global brand before a $21billion wrestling mega-merger in 2023.
5. Oprah Winfrey
$3.2bn
Oprah, 72, has also earned millions partnering with Weight Watchers and through real estateCredit: Getty
TALK show host made TV and films through her production firm Harpo.
Oprah, 72, has also earned millions partnering with Weight Watchers and through real estate.
6. Jay-Z
$2.8bn
Jay-Z has made over $1billion from his alcohol brandsCredit: Getty
Rapper, 56, made over $1billion from his alcohol brands D’Usse cognac and Armand de Brignac.
In 2008 he founded the lucrative entertainment firm Roc Nation.
7. Taylor Swift
$2bn
8. Kim Kardashian
$1.9bn
Kim K owns a third of her $5billion shapewear brand SkimsCredit: Rex
Reality star owns a third of her $5billion shapewear brand Skims.
Kim, 45, also earns through her skincare firm, endorsements, real estate, acting and TV shows.
9. Peter Jackson
$1.9bn
Director Jackson is worth $1.9bnCredit: Getty
MOVIE director, 64, made Lord Of The Rings films and sold the tech division of his visual effects company Weta Digital for $1.63billion in 2021.
10. Magic Johnson
$1.6bn
Magic Johnson has a majority stake in a life insurance companyCredit: Getty
FORMER basketball player, 66, has a majority stake in a life insurance company as well as part-ownership of four US professional sports teams.
11. Tiger Woods
$1.5bn
Golf icon Tiger Woods is estimated to have earned $121million in prize moneyCredit: Getty
GOLFING legend made $1.9billion during his sporting career and through endorsements.
Woods, 50, is estimated to have earned $121million in prize money.
12. Dick Wolf
$1.5bn
Producer Wolf signed a five-year, $1billion deal with NBCUniversal in 2020Credit: Getty
THE producer behind hit US TV dramas Law & Order, Chicago and FBI, 79-year-old Wolf signed a five-year, $1billion deal with NBCUniversal in 2020.
13. Tyler Perry
$1.4bn
Tyler Perry, 56, now owns the largest film production studio in the USCredit: Getty
THE actor and filmmaker has 100 per cent ownership of his 22 films and over 1,200 TV episodes.
Perry, 56, now owns the largest film production studio in the US.
14. LeBron James
$1.4bn
LeBron James has a lifetime $1billion endorsement deal with NikeCredit: Getty
SPORTS contracts have earned $500million for the 41-year-old basketball player – and he has a lifetime $1billion endorsement deal with Nike.
15. Bruce Springsteen
$1.2bn
Springsteen received $500million when he sold his entire music catalogue to Sony in 2021Credit: Getty
ROCKER, 76, has toured for five decades, released 21 studio albums and received $500million when he sold his entire music catalogue to Sony in 2021.
16. Arnold Schwarzenegger
$1.2bn
Schwarzenegger has earned $500million from filmsCredit: Getty
HAVING earned $500million from films, the 78-year-old actor has also made savvy investments, including in an investment firm which manages $1 trillion in assets.
17. Jerry Seinfeld
$1.1bn
Comedian Jerry Seinfeld has earned almost $500million from syndicating his self-titled sitcomCredit: Getty
THE comedian has earned almost $500million from syndicating his self-titled sitcom.
Seinfeld, 71, still does stand-up and has a Porsche collection valued at $100million.
18. Roger Federer
$1.1bn
Tennis pro Federer has numerous lucrative dealsCredit: AFP
Retired tennis player, 44, won 20 Grand Slams but also had lucrative deals with Rolex and Mercedes.
He also has a stake in athletic
19. James Cameron
$1.1bn
James Cameron is worth $1.1bnCredit: Getty
FILMMAKER behind three of the four highest-grossing films of all time.
Cameron, 71, directed Titanic, Avatar and Avatar: The Way of Water, which made over $7.5bn.
20. Rihanna
$1bn
THE Umbrella singer, 38, has a $200million music catalogue but made her main fortune through cosmetics firm Fenty Beauty and lingerie brand Savage X Fenty.
21. Beyonce
$1bn
Beyonce has a $300million music catalogueCredit: Instagram
AS well as grossing more than $1billion in back-to-back tours, the singer, 44, has a $300million music catalogue and a haircare line, Cecred, valued at $100million.
22. Dr Dre
$1bn
Dr Dre co-founded Beats Electronics and Beats MusicCredit: Getty
RAPPER, 61, co-founded Beats Electronics and Beats Music, and launched the careers of Kendrick Lamar and Eminem through his label Death Row Records.
CYPRUS has been drawn into the Iran conflict – which has had a knock on effect on holidays.
The European country was hit by an Iranian drone earlier this month, after landing on RAF Akrotiri base on the island.
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Brits are cancelling their holidays to Cyprus despite it still being safe for travelCredit: GettyThe country is the only one in Europe to have been drawn directly into the Iran crisisCredit: Alamy
Local business owner Vassilis Georgiou told the Guardian that people are “thinking twice” about visiting.
He explained: “It may be early days but I’ve been here since 1992 and suddenly hoteliers are saying bookings are down.”
Nick Aristou, who owns three hotels in Cyprus, said they’d had around 200 cancellations this month.
He told the i: “Most of the cancellations, I would say about 90 per cent, are all for March, about 10 per cent for April.”
And Thanos Hotels’ Panos Kyprianou, with four hotels on the island, said cancellations were coming from Brits with 65 cancellations for April.
Hr added: “Right now, April, is about 10 per cent behind what it was last year.”
But Agia Napa Municipal Sectary Mr Fotos Kikillos said while they were “hearing of cancellations” he reaffirmed that life was still “very safe” on the island.
He added: “People are enjoying themselves – there’s no sense of fear. The last thing we want in Cyprus is to be dragged into this war.”
With the tourist season officially starting in the beginning of April, it is expected that everything will be back to normal on the island, despite fears of summer cancellations.
Last week, Cyprus’ foreign minster Constantinos Kombos told the BBC: “I don’t think that anyone should be in two minds, given the fact that the situation, as I have been describing right now as we speak, has been perfectly normal.
“All activity is normal. Air traffic is going back to 100 per cent what it was before the incident.
“So I don’t think this is something that should be affecting people’s decisions.”
“After all, this is part of the regional situation. It’s not the Republic of Cyprus that has been targeted. It has been the British bases.
“And the security factor in terms of people feeling that everything is being done that is humanly possible to protect both citizens, residents, and visitors to Cyprus. The security apparatus is in place to try to do exactly that.”
Cyprus is one of the more affordable areas of Europe to visit, especially now.
According to Cirium, there are around 125 scheduled flights from the UK to Cyprus over the Easter holidays, working out to 25,000 passengers.
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:
Seven extra groups now qualify for a Disabled Person’s Railcard including blue badge holders
The eligibility criteria for a Disabled Persons Railcard have been expanded(Image: Getty)
More people will now qualify for reduced-price rail journeys across the UK. Seven additional categories are now eligible for a Disabled Person’s Railcard after the scheme was broadened on March 1.
This railcard grants the holder and an accompanying adult a one-third discount on most train tickets throughout England, Scotland and Wales. It presently costs £20 for one year or £54 for three. Until this month, the Disabled Person’s Railcard had exclusively been available to those claiming particular benefits or living with certain medical conditions. From March 1, it continues to be available to those individuals, but the criteria has been widened.
It now encompasses a wider spectrum of visible and non-visible disabilities. Individuals who now qualify include those who:
Have a blue badge
Have a disabled person’s bus pass (England, Scotland and Wales)
Have a disabled person’s Freedom Pass (London only)
Can’t drive on medical grounds
Receive Armed Forces Compensation Scheme benefits
Receive Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit for 20 per cent degree of disablement or higher
Are without speech
Other people who still qualify
The existing qualifying criteria for a Disabled Person’s Railcard remains valid, which means you can hold a railcard if you:
Receive Personal Independence Payments or Adult Disability Payment
Receive Disability Living Allowance or Child Disability Payment at either the higher or lower rate for the mobility component, or the higher or middle rate for the care component
Have a visual impairment
Are registered as deaf or use a hearing aid
Have epilepsy and receive drug treatment for it
Receive Attendance Allowance, Severe Disablement Allowance or Pension Age Disability Payment
Receive war pensioner’s mobility supplement
Receive war or service disablement pension for 80 per cent or more disability
Buy or lease a vehicle through the Motability scheme
From September 2026 it is intended that the scheme will broaden further allowing even more people to apply for a card. On the Disabled Persons Railcard website, it states: “Phase 2, launching in September 2026, will further extend eligibility to disabilities and conditions that require professional health evidence and more detailed assessment, including some long-term or degenerative medical conditions, and neurodiversity where it has a substantial impact on a person’s ability to travel by train.
“More detailed evidentiary requirements will be made available for this phase closer to implementation in September 2026.”
It is worth noting that if you already hold one of these railcards, the changes won’t affect you. The website states: “These upcoming changes to the eligibility criteria won’t affect your current Railcard or your eligibility. You can continue using your Railcard as usual without any disruption.”
How to apply
You can submit an application online here. You can select a digital card accessible via your mobile, which becomes available within five working days.
Alternatively, you can choose a physical card, which may take up to 15 days to reach you by post. The application process should require no longer than 10 minutes to finish.
Before starting, you must ensure you have the following prepared:
A valid debit or credit card
Documentary evidence of the Railcard holder’s disability that can be scanned and uploaded as a file
A passport-style photograph (it can even be captured with your phone)
You cannot submit an application in person at a railway station but you can apply by post. To do this, you can download a Disabled Persons Railcard application form online or obtain an application form from any staffed station ticket office.
You will then need to fill in and return this application, together with the required evidence of disability and payment to:
National Railcards
PO box 8626
SWADLINCOTE
DE11 1JA
A complete list of what is recognised as documentary evidence of the disability can be located online here.
RAF Akrotiri on Cyprus was hit by a drone, which has threatened the safety of British military personnel, and now the Foreign Office has issued a warning to tourists there
22:46, 03 Mar 2026Updated 22:52, 03 Mar 2026
Tourists stand on a beach in Varosha in Famagusta, Cyprus(Image: Getty Images)
British tourists on Cyprus should follow five key steps to ensure their safety, the Foreign Office says.
Visitors on the island in the Mediterranean Sea have been ordered to keep their departure plans under review and ensure their travel documents are up to date amid the conflict in the Middle East. RAF Akrotiri on Cyprus was hit by a drone on Monday, after which 60 flights to and from Cypriot airports were cancelled.
The UK will send HMS Dragon, one of the Royal Navy’s six Type 45 air defence destroyers, but tourists should also take action. The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO)’s website reads: “Regional escalation poses significant security risks and has led to travel disruption.”
read guidance on “how to prepare for a crisis” on the FCDO website, with suggestions on what you might include in your emergency supplies and “what to do in a crisis”
sign up to FCDO Travel Advice email alerts
monitor local and international media
sign up to local information alerts/resources AND follow the advice of local authorities
keep your departure plans under review AND ensure your travel documents are up to date
The conflict and tension in the Middle East and Gulf states continues. Donald Trump, though, has said he is “not happy” with the UK after it did not initially allow the US to use its bases for strikes on Iran, and added that Keir Starmer is “not Winston Churchill”.
It is the latest in a series of broadsides from the US president over the UK’s position on the Middle East war. Meanwhile, the Foreign Secretary confirmed that a Government charter flight will take off from Muscat, Oman, “in the coming days” to bring vulnerable British nationals back.
The HMS Dragon, due to be sent from Portsmouth in Hampshire and crewed by more than 200 people, is designed for air defence, it is equipped with a Sea Viper anti-air missile system. Defence Secretary John Healey said: “We are moving quickly to further reinforce our defensive presence in the Eastern Mediterranean.
“HMS Dragon brings world-class air defence capability, and our Wildcat helicopters are armed with Martlet missiles to counter the growing drone threat.
“I am deeply proud of the professionalism and bravery of our Armed Forces personnel who have in recent days, successfully taken action across the region to protect our allies and defend British interests.”
The Foreign Office has taken measures amid the war in the Middle East and several holiday hotspots, such as Thailand, Egypt and United Arab Emirates, are impacted
23:40, 02 Mar 2026Updated 23:43, 02 Mar 2026
A passenger sits on her suitcase in an empty section of the check-in area at Heathrow Airport this weekend(Image: AFP via Getty Images)
Brits have been warned not to travel to dozens of countries due to the war in the Middle East.
Keir Starmer has insisted the UK Government will help keep Brits abroad safe. However, his FCDO team has listed 76 countries Brits should avoid for the time being due to the conflict. Of 226 countries or territories with foreign travel advice pages, 76 are currently flagged as having no-go zones.
Larges areas of airspace remained closed across the Middle East. Various airlines, including British Airways, have said they are “closely monitoring the situation” and have cancelled “a number of our flights to the Middle East”. Our sister title, Birmingham Live, has carefully broken down the full list, which features countries all across the world.
When the Screen Actors Guild gathers to present its annual awards for the 32nd time on Sunday at 5 p.m. at the Shrine Auditorium in L.A., the event will have a new name: the Actor Awards presented by SAG-AFTRA. The new moniker aligns with the name of the statuette that’s been presented to winners since 1995 (but a lot of folks are still referring to them as the SAG Awards). The show will stream live on Netflix, with Kristen Bell hosting for the third time, after previous gigs in 2018 and 2025.
In the film categories, just two weeks before the Academy Awards, the top contenders are “One Battle After Another” and “Sinners.” Paul Thomas Anderson’s political thriller led all films with seven nominations, including cast in a motion picture and individual recognition for actors Leonardo DiCaprio, Chase Infiniti, Teyana Taylor, Benicio del Toro and Sean Penn.
“One Battle’s” toughest competition will likely be Ryan Coogler’s Southern vampire horror-musical, “Sinners,” which earned five nominations. Michael B. Jordan, Wunmi Mosaku and Miles Caton each earned individual nominations, as well as nods for the film’s cast and stunt ensembles.
Timothée Chalamet, nominated for male actor in a leading role for “Marty Supreme,” could be the first performer to win in consecutive years after taking home the Actor last year for his portrayal of Bob Dylan in “A Complete Unknown.” “Marty Supreme” has three nominations overall, including Odessa A’zion for female actor in a supporting role and performance by a cast in a motion picture.
In television, Apple TV’s “The Studio” scored the most nominations, with five, including one for performance by an ensemble in a comedy series. The show’s individual nominees are Seth Rogen, Kathryn Hahn, Ike Barinholtz and the late Catherine O’Hara.
HBO’s “The White Lotus” and Netflix’s “Adolescence” followed with four nominations each. The latter’s nominees include 16-year-old Owen Cooper, who would be the youngest performer to win an individual Actor Award. Currently, the youngest winner is Kate Winslet, who was 20 when she won for female actor in a supporting role for “Sense and Sensibility” in 1996.
Harrison Ford will be presented the SAG-AFTRA Life Achievement Award during the telecast. Recent honorees include Jane Fonda, Barbra Streisand and Sally Field.
Follow along as we update the list live throughout the evening. Nearly everyone in attendance will go home with an actor, but who will take home an Actor statuette?
Miles Caton, “Sinners” Benicio del Toro, “One Battle After Another” Jacob Elordi, “Frankenstein” Paul Mescal, “Hamnet” Sean Penn, “One Battle After Another”
Kathryn Hahn, “The Studio” Catherine O’Hara, “The Studio” Jenna Ortega, “Wednesday” Jean Smart, “Hacks” Kristen Wiig, “Palm Royale”
Performance by a male actor in a comedy series
Ike Barinholtz, “The Studio” Adam Brody, “Nobody Wants This” Ted Danson, “A Man on the Inside” Seth Rogen, “The Studio” Martin Short, “Only Murders in the Building”
Britt Lower, “Severance” Parker Posey, “The White Lotus” Keri Russell, “The Diplomat” Rhea Seehorn, “Pluribus” Aimee Lou Wood, “The White Lotus”
Performance by a male actor in a drama series
Sterling K. Brown, “Paradise” Billy Crudup, “The Morning Show” Walton Goggins, “The White Lotus” Gary Oldman, “Slow Horses” Noah Wyle, “The Pitt”
Performance by a female actor in a television movie or limited series
Claire Danes, “The Beast in Me” Erin Doherty, “Adolescence” Sarah Snook, “All Her Fault” Christine Tremarco, “Adolescence” Michelle Williams, “Dying for Sex”
Performance by a male actor in a television movie or limited series
Jason Bateman, “Black Rabbit” Owen Cooper, “Adolescence” Stephen Graham, “Adolescence” Charlie Hunnam, “Monster: The Ed Gein Story” Matthew Rhys, “The Beast in Me”
Action performance by a stunt ensemble in a motion picture
I LISTEN in pitch darkness as a creature scuttles from one end of my canvas roof to the other.
Huntsman spider? Giant goanna lizard? A giant goanna lizard-sized spider? My mind is racing.
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Sydney Opera House surrounded by the harbour and Royal Botanic GardenCredit: Destination NSWPaperbark Camp is an eco-glamping retreat 120 miles south of Sydney, tucked away in dense woodlandCredit: Supplied
Finally Emma, our Australian host, answers my panicked WhatsApp. “It’s a possum, Stew. No one ever died from a possum.”
Reassured, I snuggle back down under the covers and drift off to sleep with the soundtrack of the Australian forest echoing around me.
I’m staying at Paperbark Camp, an eco-glamping retreat 120 miles south of Sydney, tucked away in dense woodland on the banks of Currambene Creek.
My “pod” — essentially a wooden base with canvas roof and walls — has a sumptuous double bed, a deck with chairs and tables to chill while watching the exotic birdlife and kangaroos, and a delightful bath and shower room at the rear that is fully open to the forest.
And, yes, I did check under the loo seat for spiders!
The camp is our base for a week exploring the delights of rural New South Wales.
Yes, Sydney is a fantastic city but what if you want a little more adventure and authenticity?
It was certainly a chance to get close to the famous Aussie wildlife, with possums trotting up to the bar terrace and mobs of kangaroos grazing just yards away in the paddocks surrounding the camp.
Having honed our canoeing skills with the camp’s boats on the delightfully placid creek, we headed up the road to Kangaroo Valley for a paddle with a twist.
Here, we had two canoes lashed together either side of a picnic table, with two bottles of local fizz chilling and freshly-made hors d’oeuvres. How civilised.
The site is on the banks of Currambene Creek and when you’re bushed relax inside an eco podCredit: Supplied
Our sedate hour-long paddle up the river surrounded by steep tree-covered mountainsides in the morning sunshine was beautiful, with guide Travis acting as wildlife spotter and giving us an education on the ways of the Aussie bush.
Every stop we made shed more fascinating light on the history of the country’s indigenous people and each stop revealed more of their mind-blowing bushcraft and knowledge of the land.
Up in the Blue Mountains — a Unesco world heritage site — local tribal elder “Uncle Dave” gave us a warm welcome to Scenic World and an enthralling introduction to Aboriginal history.
Whether out in the bush or in Sydney, a tour encompassing Australia’s indigenous culture is well worth the time, with more than 300 distinct “nations” living side by side in harmony for thousands of years, each with their own spiritual connection to the country around them.
Uncle Dave had our group enthralled as he talked us through the customs and folklore of the breathtaking landscape around us from a cable car 800ft above the forest canopy.
The same was true as we toured the mangroves and woodlands of the beautiful coastal town of Jervis Bay.
Up the creek with a paddle in the canoeCredit: Supplied
Here, our guide Jacob fashioned a soothing ointment for insect bites from the sap of a bracken fern he’d pulled from the ground in front of us.
No plant goes to waste, he explained, pointing out some of the various unique uses for the wide range of trees and grasses around us.
The plentiful mangrove trees and their twisted branches are perfect for making boomerangs, for example.
If the idea of walking through a coastal forest with stunning views of the ocean is your thing, the 90-minute trek from Hyams Beach to Greenfield is well worth a look, with miles of beautiful white sand — the whitest in the world, the locals claim — and crystal-clear waters.
There are of course snorkelling spots in the area, and a quick boat trip out into the bay will almost guarantee a sight of dolphins, with migrating whales also around from May to November every year.
Jervis Bay’s beaches are also famous for stunning night-time displays of bioluminescence — in which a plankton “bloom” in the water glows in the dark — but that’s not an experience you can plan for!
Snorkelling in Currambene CreekCredit: Supplied
The local indigenous people’s name for Jervis Bay translates as “Bay of Plenty”, and the seafood on offer at renowned local watering hole The Huskisson Hotel certainly reflects that — a perfect way to refuel after a busy day and watch the sun set.
Exploring the stunning countryside of New South Wales will obviously require a car, and the average cost of hiring in Sydney is £45 a day.
And remember, they drive on the left Down Under so it’s easy for us Brits!
Back in the pitch darkness of the forest at Paperbark Camp, I’m woken from my well-earned slumber by a series of shrieks that sound not unlike the Demogorgon from Stranger Things.
I text Emma in the pod next door: “Did you hear that?”
As my ears pick up a rustling in the undergrowth just beyond my deck, her reply comes back: “If I told you that was just a possum, would you believe me?”
I don’t — but at least I know it can’t possibly be a 2ft Huntsman Spider.
A dolphin watching cruise in Jervis BayCredit: Supplied
These are the key developments from day 1,465 of Russia’s war on Ukraine.
Published On 28 Feb 202628 Feb 2026
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Here is where things stand on Saturday, February 28:
Fighting
Russia struck port infrastructure overnight in Ukraine’s southern Odesa region, igniting fires and damaging equipment, warehouses and food containers, Deputy Prime Minister Oleksii Kuleba said.
A localised truce has been established near the Russian-controlled Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant to allow repairs to power lines, Russian news agencies report, citing the head of Russia’s state nuclear corporation.
Ukraine shot down a drone near the border with Romania during a Russian attack on port infrastructure on the Danube River, Romania’s Ministry of National Defence said.
Romania said it scrambled fighter jets and that the drone was brought down 100 metres (110 yards) from the Romanian village of Chilia Veche, on the opposite side of the Danube River to Ukraine.
Russian forces have taken control of the village of Biliakivka in the Dnipropetrovsk region of eastern Ukraine, the Russian RIA Novosti state news agency reported, citing the Ministry of Defence.
Ukraine’s military said it struck an oil depot in the Russian-occupied Luhansk region overnight, causing a large fire at the facility.
Firefighters were trying to bring a fire at an oil refinery in Russia’s southern Krasnodar region under control, local officials said early Saturday.
Ukraine is considering forming partnerships with allies to build air defences capable of intercepting ballistic missiles and to address a critical shortage of munitions for United States-made Patriot systems, the country’s defence minister said.
Ghana’s Foreign Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa said 55 Ghanaians had been killed fighting in Ukraine, and that some 272 citizens of the African country are believed to have been lured to fight for Russia in Ukraine since 2022.
A multistorey residential building was destroyed in the town of Severodonetsk in the Russian-controlled Luhansk region, Ukraine [File: Alexander Ermochenko/Reuters]
Regional security
The Swedish military intercepted a suspected Russian drone off the country’s south coast while a French aircraft carrier was docked in Malmo, officials said.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said it was “absurd” to suggest the drone that was electronically disabled near a French aircraft carrier in Sweden earlier this week was Russian.
The European Commission said Croatia is assessing whether it can legally import seaborne Russian crude to supply Hungary and Slovakia through its Adria pipeline.
The move by Croatia follows after oil supplies via the Ukrainian section of the Druzhba pipeline to Hungary and Slovakia – the only European Union countries still importing Russian oil – were halted last month due to damage Ukraine blamed on a Russian drone strike.
In a video posted on Facebook, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban urged Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to grant Hungarian and Slovak inspectors access to repair and restart the Druzhba pipeline.
The receiver station of the Druzhba pipeline of petroleum between Hungary and Russia, with a memorial plate of its construction at the Danube Refinery of the Hungarian MOL gas company [File: Attila Kisbenedek/AFP]
President Zelenskyy said he had not been offered nuclear weapons by the United Kingdom or France, but added he would accept such an offer “with pleasure”, after Russia’s Foreign Intelligence Service accused both countries of working to provide Kyiv with a nuclear bomb.
Poland’s parliament approved a law to implement the EU’s Security Action for Europe (SAFE) defence procurement programme aimed at boosting member states’ military readiness.
Economy
The International Monetary Fund said its executive board had approved an $8.1bn, four-year loan for Ukraine, anchoring a broader $136.5bn international support package. The World Bank estimates Ukraine will need $588bn for post-war reconstruction.
Economists say Russia is grappling with heavy state defence spending alongside deepening structural challenges, including labour shortages and high inflation.
Ukraine’s major steelmaker ArcelorMittal Kryvyi Rih said it is closing another division due to a worsening energy crisis caused by continued Russian attacks on Ukraine’s power system.
Peace talks
Bilateral talks between US and Ukrainian officials in Geneva concluded on Thursday, with Kyiv saying preparations are under way for the next round of negotiations aimed at ending the war.
Ukraine’s chief negotiator, Rustem Umerov, said on X that discussions were held in two formats: separate meetings with the United States and a trilateral session involving the US and Switzerland.
Umerov said participants spoke with President Zelenskyy and were working to ensure the next three-sided meeting with Russia on a settlement is “as substantive as possible”.
Politics and diplomacy
Former British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has begun advising the Ukrainian government on economic renewal as Kyiv works to rebuild its energy sector before next winter.
Finland, Ukraine and the Czech Republic will skip the opening ceremony of the Milano Cortina Paralympics in protest against the inclusion of Russian athletes competing under their own flag while the war in Ukraine is ongoing.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said “diplomacy cannot succeed at the moment” with Russia, and that greater emphasis should be placed on defending Ukraine from Moscow’s aggression.
These are the key developments from day 1,459 of Russia’s war on Ukraine.
Published On 22 Feb 202622 Feb 2026
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Here is where things stand on Sunday, February 22:
Fighting
A Russian drone attack on Ukraine’s northeastern Sumy region killed four people, including a 17-year-old boy, while another attack on the southeastern Zaporizhia region killed a 77-year-old man, according to Ukrainian authorities.
Russian attacks on Ukraine’s Odesa region wounded two people and caused damage to homes, cars and an energy facility, officials said. Another Russian attack on the Dnipropetrovsk region wounded a 77-year-old man.
In the Donetsk region, Russian shelling wounded four people in 18 attacks throughout the day, Governor Vadym Filashkin wrote on Telegram. Authorities evacuated 562 people, including 244 children, from front-line settlements.
Russian forces also hit the facility of US snack food company Mondelez in Sumy, sparking a reaction from Ukrainian Minister of Foreign Affairs Andrii Sybiha, who wrote on X that Russia was “targeting American business interests in Europe”.
“Moscow cannot speak of economic dialogue with the United States while attacking US-owned production facilities,” Sybiha added.
In the front-line Kherson region, Russian shelling wounded two police officers and one civilian, Ukraine’s National Police wrote on Telegram. Three apartment buildings, 18 homes, a hospital and numerous public buildings sustained damage.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy claimed that Ukrainian security forces “neutralised Russian mercenaries preparing assassination attempts” against “high-profile” figures, including military personnel, intelligence officers and journalists.
Moscow’s forces took control of the village of Karpivka in Ukraine’s eastern Donetsk region, the Russian RIA state news agency reported on Saturday, citing the Ministry of Defence.
A Ukrainian drone attack on Russia’s Belgorod region wounded a man and a three-year-old child, according to the Russian TASS news.
The Ukrainian General Staff said Ukraine’s home-produced “Flamingo” cruise missiles hit a Russian ballistic missile plant in the Udmurtia region, as well as a gas plant in the Samara region.
Politics and diplomacy
Zelenskyy held discussions with NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte on the next round of trilateral negotiations with the US and Russia, as well as Ukraine’s energy situation. He said on X that “in many areas, our views align”.
Zelenskyy said in his evening address that “we continue working every day… so that the next round of negotiations can deliver results for Ukraine, results for peace”.The Ukrainian leader said he was closely coordinating with European partners so that the European Union is “involved in all processes and grows only stronger”.
Demonstrators in Washington, DC, Paris, and Prague rallied in support of Ukraine ahead of the fourth anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion on February 24.
Zelenskyy awarded Ukraine’s civilian award, the Order of Princess Olga, to Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo in the Ukrainian capital. Hidalgo’s visit marked her sixth trip to Kyiv since the start of the war.
Sybiha, the Ukrainian foreign minister, condemned Russia’s alleged ongoing recruitment of Kenyans and other Africans into Moscow’s war, writing that it “evokes the worst memories of colonial attitudes from the past” and warning Africans against signing contracts with Russian recruiters.
Ukraine enforced new sanctions against the captains of vessels allegedly transporting Russian oil, a list that Zelenskyy said totalled 225 people.
Energy
Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico threatened to stop providing emergency electricity supplies to Ukraine unless Kyiv resumed Russian oil transit to Slovakia over Ukrainian territory, through the Druzhba pipeline. Hungary said it would block a 90 billion euro ($106bn) EU loan for Ukraine for the same reason.
Shipments of Russian oil to Hungary and Slovakia have been cut off since January 27, when Kyiv says a Russian drone strike hit pipeline equipment in Western Ukraine. Slovakia and Hungary say Ukraine is to blame for the prolonged outage.
The Ukrainian Ministry of Foreign Affairs said it “rejects and condemns” Hungary and Slovakia’s statements and that the “provocative, irresponsible ultimatums threaten the energy security of the entire region”.
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk criticised Hungary’s move on X, writing, “Guess who’s happy”, in an apparent reference to Russia.
Military aid
The Czech Republic transferred 200 reconnaissance drones to five Ukrainian brigades, equipment worth about $800,000, Ukraine’s Interfax news agency reported.
Former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson said in an interview with the BBC that the United Kingdom and the EU should send “peaceful ground forces” to “show our support for a free, independent Ukraine”.
These are the key developments from day 1,458 of Russia’s war on Ukraine.
Published On 21 Feb 202621 Feb 2026
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Here is where things stand on Saturday, February 21:
Fighting
The death toll from a Russian attack on a warehouse in Malynivka in Ukraine’s Kharkiv region rose to three after rescuers found two more bodies under the rubble, the State Emergency Service said on the Telegram messaging app.
A Russian drone attack killed two police officers as they were on their way to evacuate residents near the village of Serednii Burluk in Kharkiv, the National Police of Ukraine said on Telegram.
Russian forces launched a ballistic missile and 128 drones towards Ukraine overnight on Thursday, Ukraine’s Ministry of Defence said on Facebook. Ukrainian forces shot down 107 of the drones, the ministry added.
Russian attacks caused dozens of injuries and damage to homes and infrastructure, including oil and gas facilities in Ukraine’s Poltava region, according to the country’s state-owned oil and gas company Naftogaz.
Russian forces attacked Komyshuvas in Ukraine’s Zaporizhia region with guided bombs, causing a fire in residential buildings that injured a 22-year-old woman and a 27-year-old man, regional governor Ivan Fedorov said on Telegram.
In Russia, two people were killed and three were wounded in a Ukrainian drone attack on a car in the rural Maksimovskoye settlement located on the front line in the Belgorod region, regional governor Vyacheslav Gladkov wrote on Telegram.
The attack was one of several by Ukrainian forces across Belgorod, including another strike that killed a man in the village of Pochayevo, the regional emergency task force wrote on Telegram.
Alexander Bogomaz, the governor of Russia’s Bryansk region, said Ukrainian forces attacked a hospital in the village of Voronok with drones, though no casualties were reported.
A “significant portion” of the northwest of Russian-occupied Zaporizhia was left without electricity due to “a massive attack” by Ukrainian forces on the region’s electric grid, Russia’s TASS state news agency reported, citing a Russian-appointed official, Yevhen Balitsky.
Yevgeniya Yashina, communications director at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, told TASS that there was heavy Ukrainian shelling in the vicinity of the facility, which has been under Russian occupation since 2022.
Politics and diplomacy
French President Emmanuel Macron and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer will chair a video conference of Ukraine’s “Coalition of the Allies” on February 24, which will mark the fourth anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Macron’s office said on Friday.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy told reporters in a WhatsApp group that no positive movement has been made regarding negotiations over the future of Ukrainian land occupied by Russia in peace talks with Moscow mediated by the United States.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Friday that he cannot yet confirm when and where a new round of talks on Ukraine will take place after TASS reported the next talks will take place in Geneva.
Energy
The European Commission has allowed the German government to take trusteeship of the German assets of US-sanctioned Russian oil group Rosneft, which supplies most of the fuel to Berlin via its PCK Schwedt refinery, when the current arrangement expires on March 10.
The US Department of the Treasury has extended a sanctions waiver on Serbia’s Russian-owned oil firm NIS until March 20, giving the Balkan country another month to import crude oil supplies, Serbia’s Energy Minister Dubravka Djedovic Handanovic said in a statement.
Hungary will block a 90 billion euro ($106bn) European Union loan for Ukraine until oil transit to Hungary via the Druzhba pipeline resumes, Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto said.
“By blocking oil transit to Hungary through the Druzhba pipeline, Ukraine violates the EU-Ukraine Association Agreement, breaching its commitments to the European Union. We will not give in to this blackmail,” Szijjarto said on X.
Regional security
Britain and European allies – including France, Germany, Italy and Poland – will work together to develop new low-cost air defence weapons to protect the continent’s skies, the United Kingdom’s Ministry of Defence said in a statement.
These are the key developments from day 1,457 of Russia’s war on Ukraine.
Published On 20 Feb 202620 Feb 2026
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Here is where things stand on Friday, February 20:
Fighting
Russian forces launched 448 attacks on 34 settlements in Ukraine’s front-line Zaporizhia region in a single day, injuring a six-year-old child and damaging homes, cars and other infrastructure, regional governor Ivan Fedorov wrote on the Telegram app.
Russian drone, missile and artillery attacks on Ukraine’s Kherson region injured five people and damaged homes, including seven high-rise buildings, the local military administration said on Telegram.
Russian attacks also continued in Ukraine’s Dnipropetrovsk and Sumy regions, but local officials there noted that “fortunately, no people were injured”. According to the Kyiv Independent news outlet, overnight was “unusually quiet” following weeks of “heavy fire” in the two regions.
A man was killed by shrapnel from a Ukrainian drone attack on Sevastopol, in Russian-occupied Crimea, Governor Mikhail Razvozhayev said on Telegram.
A Ukrainian drone attack caused a fire at an oil depot in Velikiye Luki in Russia’s Pskov region, local official Mikhail Vedernikov said, according to Russia’s state TASS news agency.
Russian forces shot down 301 Ukrainian drones, 10 missiles and two guided bombs in a 24-hour period, Russia’s Ministry of Defence said, according to TASS.
Peace process
United States President Donald Trump’s Board of Peace held its first meeting in Washington, DC, without Belarus participating, despite Trump extending an invitation to the Russian ally.
Belarus’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement that its delegation to the meeting did not receive the necessary visas to enter the US “despite carrying out all the required procedures”.
The Foreign Ministry questioned, “What kind of peace and what kind of sequence of steps are we talking about if the organisers cannot even complete basic formalities for us to take part?”
France’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Pascal Confavreux expressed surprise to see the European Commission had sent a commissioner to participate in Trump’s meeting, noting that it “does not have a mandate from the [European] Council to go and participate”.
Confavreux also said France would not take part in Trump’s initiative until the Board of Peace returned its focus to Gaza in line with a United Nations Security Council resolution.
Several European Union member states have said they will not participate in the peace board after Trump extended an invitation to Russian President Vladimir Putin, who launched the invasion of Ukraine in 2022 and is subject to an arrest warrant by the International Criminal Court.
Regional Security
Dutch intelligence services AIVD and MIVD said on Thursday that European countries, including the Netherlands, were facing increased hybrid threats from Russia, including cyberattacks, sabotage, influence campaigns and disinformation.
Energy
Ukraine’s Russian-held Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant is operating on its sole remaining main power line after losing its only backup power line more than a week ago, head of the International Atomic Energy Agency, Rafael Grossi, said in a statement.
Hungary is considering halting power and gas exports to Ukraine and will take such steps unless Ukraine resumes the flow of crude oil shipments via the Druzhba pipeline, Prime Minister Viktor Orban’s chief of staff told a briefing.
The Druzhba pipeline, parts of which run through Ukraine, is crucial for the transfer of Russian crude oil to Hungary and Slovakia. Oil flows have reportedly halted since an attack on the pipeline in January, which Kyiv has blamed on Russia.
France’s Minister of the Economy, Finance and Industry Roland Lescure said his country would provide 71 million euros ($83.5m) in additional funding for Ukraine for services including energy, health and clearing land mines.
Politics and diplomacy
The head of Russia’s FSB security service accused Telegram messaging app founder Pavel Durov of condoning criminal activity on the platform, in an escalation of Moscow’s rhetoric as it moved to restrict the service that is used by many Russians and Ukrainians to communicate about the war.
Dismissing a Russian government allegation that foreign intelligence services are able to see messages sent by Russian soldiers on Telegram, the popular platform said it had not found any breaches of its encryption codes and called Russia’s claims a “deliberate fabrication”, according to the Reuters news agency.
Military aid
Sweden announced a 12.9 billion crown ($1.42bn) military aid package for Ukraine that will include air defences, drones, long-range missiles and ammunition.
These are the key developments from day 1,456 of Russia’s war on Ukraine.
Published On 19 Feb 202619 Feb 2026
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Here is where things stand on Thursday, February 19:
Fighting
Russian forces launched multiple attacks on Ukraine’s Zaporizhia region, killing one person and injuring seven others over the past day, the region’s military administration said on the Telegram messaging platform.
The attacks involved 448 drones as well as 163 artillery strikes, causing damage to 136 homes, cars and other structures, the military administration said.
Russian forces also continued shelling Ukraine’s Donetsk region, forcing 173 people, including 135 children, to evacuate front-line areas over the past day, regional governor Vadym Filashkin said on Telegram.
A 54-year-old man was killed in a Russian attack in the Nikopol district of Ukraine’s Dnipropetrovsk region, Governor Oleksandr Hanzha said on Telegram.
Russian attacks also left many people without electricity across Ukraine, according to the Ministry of Energy, including more than 99,000 households in the Odesa region.
In Russia, one person was killed in a Ukrainian drone attack on the village of Aleynikovo in the country’s Bryansk region, Governor Alexander Bogomaz said.
Russia’s Ministry of Defence said that Russian forces seized the village of Kharkivka in Ukraine’s Sumy region and Krynychne in the Zaporizhia region, according to Russia’s state news agency TASS.
Ukrainian battlefield monitoring site DeepState said that Russian forces advanced in Nykyforivka in Ukraine’s Donetsk region.
Russian forces shot down 155 Ukrainian drones, 11 rocket launchers, and two guided aerial bombs in a 24-hour period, Russia’s Defence Ministry said, according to TASS.
Peace talks
Negotiators from Russia and Ukraine concluded the second of two days of US-mediated talks in Geneva, with both sides describing the negotiations as “difficult”.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that although “progress has been made … for now, positions differ because the negotiations were difficult”.
President Zelenskyy later told the Piers Morgan Uncensored current affairs show that Russia and Ukraine were close to defining terms for how a potential ceasefire would be monitored, but progress on “political” issues had been slower, including on the most divisive issue of control of territory.
In Washington, White House spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt said there was “meaningful progress made” with pledges “to continue to work towards a peace deal together”, and more talks are expected in the near future.
Vladimir Medinsky, Russia’s top negotiator, said the two days of talks in Geneva were “difficult but businesslike,” telling reporters that further negotiations would be held soon, without specifying when.
Rustem Umerov, the head of Kyiv’s negotiating team, said that the second day had been “intensive and substantive” and that both sides were working towards decisions that can be sent to their presidents, he said.
Politics and diplomacy
Ukraine imposed sanctions against Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, promising to “increase countermeasures” against Minsk for supporting Russia’s war against Ukraine, including through providing relay stations for Russian drone attacks on Ukraine, Zelenskyy said on social media.
United States Senator Jeanne Shaheen of New Hampshire along with three other US senators from the Democratic Party visited Kyiv.
Shaheen told reporters that she “would hope that we would see a stronger effort and some real work when we get back to put pressure on Putin”.
Sport
Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna said in a post on Telegram that “allowing Russian and Belarusian athletes to participate in the Milano-Cortina Paralympics while Russia continues its full-scale war against Ukraine is a disgrace”.
Estonian Public Broadcasting company Eesti Rahvusringhaaling announced it would not broadcast the games in protest at the decision to allow the Russian and Belarusian athletes to compete under their own flags.
The sandy beach in one of the sunniest parts of the UK has been ranked 15th on Tripadvisor’s Best of the Best beaches worldwide, beating destinations in Turkey, Indonesia and Greece
12:09, 17 Feb 2026Updated 12:45, 17 Feb 2026
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The coast is the sunniest part of the UK (Image: Oscarhill via Getty Images)
A breathtaking sandy beach in one of Britain’s sunniest corners has earned a spot on a prestigious list of the world’s finest coastal destinations.
Yaverland Beach at Sandown on the Isle of Wight has secured its place on Tripadvisor’s Best of the Best list, unveiled this morning. Claiming the No. 15 position in its first appearance, it outranks beaches in Turkey, Indonesia and Greece. Celebrated as a jewel in Britain’s coastal crown, Yaverland Beach features an expansive, golden, dog-friendly stretch with crystal-clear, shallow waters and striking multi-coloured cliffs.
With top-notch facilities on site and the award-winning The Beach Cafe nearby, it makes for an ideal day out throughout the year.
There’s solid reasoning behind why Yaverland deserves a visit. The Met Office has recently named the Isle of Wight Britain’s sunniest location, with inhabitants of this southern haven enjoying an average of five hours of sunshine daily, reports the Express.
This stands in stark contrast to the UK’s gloomiest spot, Lowther Hill in Scotland, which manages just shy of 2 hours and 45 minutes of daily sun.
Since last May, the brightest spot in the nation’s brightest region has officially been Shanklin, a beloved seaside destination on the island’s eastern shore that’s witnessed a surge in visitor numbers lately. Sandown lies merely 2.5 miles along the coast from Shanklin, meaning it’s clearly absorbing plenty of sunshine too.
The picturesque Sandown Bay earned the title of Britain’s favourite beach from Countryfile Magazine readers back in 2019. The stunning stretch spans eight miles of coastline linking Sandown and Shanklin.
Capitalising on this glorious setting and beautiful shoreline, a local community group is currently constructing a new tidal sea pool at Yaverland. Billed as “Olympic-sized and accessible”, it would mark the first development of its kind in the UK for a hundred years, according to the organisation.
Sykes Cottages offers a wide range of handpicked holiday homes across the UK and Ireland, from cosy countryside retreats to stunning coastal escapes. Prices start from £27 per night
Another remarkable local attraction is Shanklin Chine – a striking, largely concealed tourist destination that carves through the clifftops overlooking the Shanklin stretch of beach before descending onto the sand. A chine refers to a stream eroding into soft cliff faces, with Shanklin’s example formed over the past 10,000 years, extending 400m with an impressive 32m vertical drop. This wooded coastal gorge features waterfalls, woodland, and abundant greenery, with pathways and walkways offering paid entry for tourists.
This coastal location has welcomed numerous distinguished guests, including Charles Dickens, poet John Keats, American poet Longfellow, Lewis Carroll, and Charles Darwin, who penned portions of his work Origin of the Species there.
Top 10 Beaches in the World for 2026 according to Tripadvisor
Good for: Pink sand phenomenon, shallow lagoons, protected nature reserve, and can be easily accessed from Chania through the Elafonissi Beach Trip from Chania tour.
Best time to go: May & September
Unique features: Rare pink sand created by crushed shells
WHAT if the best memories you make with your family this year didn’t have to cost you a single penny?
We’ve scoured the internet for family days out across the UK – and the best part is, they are all TOTALLY free.
The National Railway Museum in York is a top choice for young railway enthusiastsCredit: the national railway museum
We’ve compiled a mega list of all the best free family days out taking place this spring, including free kids festivals, a travelling activity train, wilding workshops and more.
For the mini history buffs, science geeks, horse lovers, artsy types and railway enthusiasts in the family, we’ve got you covered.
From free mini kids concerts in Birmingham, to meeting newborn lambs at farms in Wales, you’re bound to find something near you that the whole family will love this spring.
Inside, you’ll find an extensive model railway, a large family play area and a viewing balcony overlooking York Railway Station.
Make sure to book your free tickets in advance to secure your slot.
2. Play Pavilion at The Hepworth, Wakefield, West Yorkshire
The Hepworth art museum in Wakefield is home to a Play Pavilion full of arts materials, books, fun artifacts and more for kids to get stuck into.
The Play Pavilion is part of the artistic Playing with Fire exhibition, and will be available to visit until May 4 2026.
There’s plenty more for families here, too, like Explore and Draw stations dotted around the exhibitions and a welcoming free Warm Space to enjoy a free hot drink and a biscuit.
3. Family Parkrun in Fountains Abbey
Parkruns are free to attend and take place across the country, so as the sun comes out in the springtime, what better way to celebrate than a family Parkrun?
The trails are 5km routes, which most people run but you can walk them as well.
The Fountains Abbey Parkrun is often considered to be one of the most beautiful in the UK as it goes through a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Run along past 12th-century abbey ruins and gorgeous Georgian water gardens.
Leeds City Museum is hosting Tiny Tigers workshops and Rory’s Saturday Club this springCredit: Leeds City MuseumThe World Museum in Liverpool are offering free sensory sessions for babies and their parentsCredit: World Museum, Liverpool
4. Tiny Tigers and Rory’s Saturday Club at Leeds City Museum
Tiny Tigers is a creative kids workshop held at Leeds City Museum, where children under 5 can get stuck into some colourful arts and crafts.
The sessions take place every Friday morning inside the Life on Earth gallery of the museum.
The museum also runs crafts for families of mixed ages on Saturday mornings, hosting Rory’s Saturday Club drop-in sessions.
All of the messy craft sessions have materials provided at no cost, although the museum itself is a Give What You Can museum.
5. Little Liverpool, Museum of Liverpool
The National Museums in Liverpool are running plenty of free events for families this spring.
Whilst the permanent displays on Ancient Egypt, Natural History, and on-site planetarium are fascinating enough, there are also extra events taking place across locations.
Little Liverpool is a hands-on giant fantasy world at the Museum of Liverpool, designed for children aged 6 and under.
You must have a ticket to take part in this area of the museum, which can be reserved online in advance or collected on the day from the welcome desk.
6. Aquarium baby sessions, World Museum, Liverpool
This 45-minute sensory session is a relaxing choice for families with babies under 12 months.
Here, light from glowing fish tanks and soft colours soothe little ones lying on soft cushions and blankets.
The sessions take place in early spring until March 19 2026. You can book a free ticket for your 0 – 12-month-old online on the museum’s website.
Little Liverpool in the Museum of Liverpool is a hands-on miniature city for kidsCredit: Museum of LiverpoolThe Big Art creative area has free toys and games for families with kids aged 0 – 5Credit: walker art gallery
7. Interactive Big Art, Walker Art Gallery, Liverpool
The Walker Art Gallery in Liverpool is open from 10am – 4pm from Tuesdays to Sundays, and is free to enter.
The gallery has its own creative area for kids called Big Art, designed for families with kids aged 0 – 5.
Here, there’s plenty of toys and games, costumes to dress up in, and a craft table which rotates themes on a weekly basis.
Entry is free, just make sure that you pre-book your slot in advance online, where you can find all the timings available.
8. Wild and Kind workshops and walks, Bradford
The Wild and Kind Gatherings held by local artist Rachel Cambell offer a free day out for families with children ages 6 – 12 to walk through nature and learn about the world around them.
Nature-themed walks and workshops include The Whispering Sky, inspired by astronomy, and The Quiet Stirring, all about the telltale signs of nature transforming for spring.
The events take place every Wednesday from 1:30 – 3pm until April 2026. Booking is required for certain events.
9. Cereal Disco and artist workshops at Baltic Arts Centre, Gateshead
The Baltic Arts Centre in Gateshead is free to visit, and it’s full of all sorts of weird and wonderful art exhibitions.
There’s also quirky kids’ events on offer here, such as the Cereal Disco, which mixes breakfast with party tunes and runs from 10 – 11am on Wednesdays – Sundays.
There’s also Meet & Make workshops every Sunday from 2pm – 4pm, with arts and crafts activities for children aged 5 – 12.
Both events are free drop-ins with no pre-booking required.
The Baltic Arts Centre in Gateshead are hosting art sessions and even a Cereal DiscoCredit: Baltic Arts Centre, GatesheadVisit the impressive Lego Durham Cathedral within the Durham Cathedral MuseumCredit: Durham Cathedral
10. Bolton Museum and Little Lever Library
The Bolton Museum and libraries have plenty to see and do for families and young children – and admission is totally free.
Inside, there’s a fascinating Ancient Egypt gallery, as well as Greater Manchester‘s only aquarium inside the Central Library and Museum building.
Plus, throughout spring at the Little Lever Library, families can attend the weekly Toddler Tales for ages 2 -5 for morning storytelling sessions.
There are also Create and Craft events every Saturday from 11am – 1pm with free arts activities.
Events are drop-ins with no booking required.
11. Durham Cathedral Lego display
A Lego edition of the beautiful Durham Cathedral, which took three years to create, is on display in the city.
The huge model is made of 350,000 Lego bricks, and its details include glowing stained glass windows and an intricate roof structure.
The display is available to view for free inside the Durham Cathedral Museum with no admission fee.
The museum is open from 9:30 – 4:30pm Monday – Saturday, and 12 – 3pm on Sundays. Other exhibitions require a paid admission ticket (£7.50 adults, under 18’s free).
12. Fairy-tale Forest Creative Play at Theatre Hullabaloo, Darlington
Just next door to Darlington Hippodrome, The Hullabaloo is a venue created for kids with creative events for all ages on offer.
The events programme is constantly updated with new and exciting shows and workshops. Whilst theatre shows have admission charges, there are plenty of exciting free events too.
The Hullabaloo is open from 10am – 2pm from Wednesday – Saturday. The listed events are free to attend with no booking required.
Theatre Hullabaloo in Darlington has a packed programme of free children’s activitiesCredit: Theatre Hullabaloo
13. Big Beasts, Little Beasts trail at the Great North Museum, Hancock
Some of the best to look forward to this spring include the Little Light Explorers sensory play from March 18 – 28, and the space-themed Moonbeam Creative Play and dress up from April 1 – June 27.
Running until April 2, the Big Beasts, Little Beasts trail is fun for the whole family with plenty of activities and games to find dotted around the Great North Museum: Hancock.
Simply pick up a free trail sheet at the welcome desk, and follow the activities around the galleries – there’s even some fun prizes to take home, too.
And if you happen to visit on Saturday, March 28, there’s a free drop-in living history family fun day to celebrate the opening of the new exhibition Treasure: Hidden, Lost and Found.
Entry to the Great North Museum, Hancock, is free. The museum is open 10am – 5pm Monday – Friday, closing an hour earlier on weekends.
14. National Football Museum, Manchester
Manchester’s National Football Museum has plenty to see and do that footie fans will love.
There’s four galleries of memorabilia, interactive sporty activities, and shiny league cups and trophies to see up close.
The National Football Museum is free to visit for residents of ManchesterCredit: National Football Museum, manchesterYou can visit the grounds and keep of Clitheroe Castle in Lancashire for freeCredit: Clitheroe Castle
16. Clitheroe Castle, Lancashire
The grounds and keep of the medieval Clitheroe Castle in Lancashire are totally free to visit and open to the public to explore.
The castle dates all the way back to the 12th century, and its beautiful surrounding green fields make for a picnic spot with a great view.
Or see if you can find any ancient coins, which you can bring to the Finds Liaison Officers to identify and record your discoveries.
17. Tracks of Life Train Exhibition, Clitheroe Castle Museum, Lancashire
The Tracks of Life: Trains, People and Places exhibition at Clitheroe Castle Museum is the perfect place to take train enthusiasts, young and old.
The exhibition celebrates local photographer and railway enthusiast Ken Roberts, who was recognised nationwide for his talent in railway photography.
As well as his famous photographs, there are plenty of model railways and other artefacts to see donated by local historians.
The exhibition is open daily to visit for free between 11am – 4pm, and will run until June 30 2026.
The Harris Museum hosts free sessions such as Baby Bounce and Rhyme and Little StepsCredit: The Harris Museum
18. The Harris Museum, Preston, Lancashire
The Harris Museum in Preston is free to enter, and is also holding a variety of free events for all ages this spring.
Baby Bounce and Rhyme is a weekly drop-in where families with infants can share in songs and stories – plus if you collect eight stamps on the loyalty card they give you, you receive a free children’s book.
There’s also a jungle-themed reading club, Little Steps on Mondays and Fridays for children aged 2 -5, and the Curious Creators drop-in arts activities for ages 3 – 9.
All of the free events are drop-ins with no booking required.
19. SEA LIFE Beach Cleans in Blackpool
Beach cleans are a fantastic way to do your bit in keeping our oceans safe and clean for both animals and people, and taking part in a beach clean as a family can be incredibly rewarding.
Luckily, SEA LIFE plans and hosts regular beach cleans with all the equipment you’ll need, as you set out as a large group to tackle the rubbish left on the sea shores.
Grab a litter pick and stroll along the stretches of sand, clearing your path as you go and disposing of items safely and correctly with trained professionals.
Multiple SEA LIFE sites across the UK host these beach cleans, with events taking place in Blackpool this spring on April 26 and May 23.
20. The HAPPY! exhibition at Hatton Gallery, Newcastle
To inspire the young artists in the family, the HAPPY! The exhibition at Newcastle‘s Hatton Gallery is an art exhibition made entirely by young people.
Created by local youth art group L-INK, the exhibition is a collection of vibrant art pieces made in collaboration with professional artists.
The Hatton Gallery itself is free to enter, and often hosts pop-up art workshops for children of all ages, so make sure to keep an eye on their website for new events.
The exhibition will take place from February 14 – May 9 2026. The gallery is open from February 14 – May 9 from Monday – Saturday.
Take part in a beach clean as a family with events organised by SEA LIFECredit: Sea LifeVisit the world’s first railway town and meet a 200 year-old locomotive at LocomotionCredit: Locomotion
21. Trails, arts activities and baby sensory sessions at Salford Museum
The START trail is a hands-on way for all ages to explore the Victorian Gallery of the Salford Museum and Art Gallery, and let creativity flow with writing and drawing exercises.
Pick up a free trial and pencil case, and take your time exploring the gallery’s dramatic paintings and marble sculptures.
The attraction is open from 9:30am – 4pm from Tuesday – Friday, and 11am – 4pm on weekends.
The star object of the attraction is Locomotion No. 1 – the 200-year-old locomotive which ran the first ever passenger service on a public railway.
Once you’ve admired its “knitting needle”-like gears and giant black chimney, families can make use of the outdoor play area and free Railway Boy trail (make sure to print this at home first).
And if you choose to visit the weekend of May 16-17, you can take part in a completely free Magnificent Models weekend, where you can browse stalls and take part in family railway modelling craft activities.
Locomotion is free to visit and open from 10am – 4pm daily.
Derwent Reservoir has adventure playground, nature trails and moreCredit: Derwent ReservoirTake the family along the Stick Man trail at the National Memorial ArboretumCredit: National Memorial Arboretum
23. Derwent Reservoir, Northumberland
Head to Derwent Reservoir on a sunny day this spring for a wide open space the whole family will love, including the dog.
Here, there’s a giant wooden play park, a nature trail, picnic spots and plenty of cycling and hiking routes.
There’s also a 12-acre secured field where dogs can be let off the lead to roam free.
Derwent is also a popular fishing spot, with cash prizes available for any tagged fish caught.
Plus, if you do have a few pounds to spare, the half-term kids clubs during the Easter break and May cost £2.50 per child for some artsy activities.
24. The Stick Man Outdoor Trail, National Memorial Arboretum, Staffordshire
The free Stick Man trail in the woods of Alrewas, Staffordshire is a must-visit for kids who are fans of the book, animated film, or of course, the kids’ party song.
The woodland trail is dotted with recognisable wooden animal sculptures, and runs one mile in length.
Simply pick up your paper trail copy from the welcome desk of the National Memorial Arboretum, then head on your merry way to meet the much-loved characters.
25. Castlefield Viaduct, Manchester
If you’re looking for something different to do in the city, you can visit a former Victorian railway viaduct turned beautiful sky garden in the heart of Manchester.
The Grade II-listed viaduct was built by the same engineers who constructed Blackpool Tower, and now it blends Victorian history with modern gardens.
Explore secret gardens, untouched wild areas, and plenty of scenic rooftop viewpoints, whilst introducing children to hundreds of plant species they may have never seen before.
The viaduct is free to visit and open from 10am – 5pm from Wednesday – Sunday.
26. Darlington and Durham Running Day, County Durham
On 18 April 2026, County Durham is celebrating the Darlington and Durham Running Day.
This free day celebrating transport will see classic and modern buses take to the streets, with free bus rides on offer throughout the day.
The event will take place from 10am – 4pm, and there’s no need to book a ticket.
The Wind in the Willows themed trails are taking place across RHS GardensCredit: RHS GardensBirmingham Museum and Art Gallery is home to the new Wild City galleriesCredit: Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery
27. The Wind in the Willows interactive trails at RHS Gardens
Beginning in February and running until December of 2026, all five Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) gardens are taking part in a Wind in the Willows-themed event.
Each magical garden trail hides story characters such as Mole, Toad and Badger around each corner – with garden games and plenty of photo opportunities.
The five RHS gardens across the UK are located in Manchester, North Yorkshire, Essex, Devon and Surrey.
The Wind in the Willows: A Garden Adventure is a free trail included with your garden entry.
It’s home to Turbinia: a huge ship powered by steam turbines, and collections with some really unique items, such as a Roman toilet and rare sea slugs collection.
And for some play time, their kids’ space, Tiny Tyneside, is full of replica transport inventions to play with, and is open daily.
The museum is open from 10am – 4pm on weekdays, opening an hour later on weekends.
Central and East of England
29. Wild City and Marvellous Makers, Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery
Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery’s Marvellous Makers is a weekly free drop-in for creative kids of all ages.
Activities are switched up every single week, with previous sessions including building wild sculptures and creating huge collaborative floor artworks.
The sessions take place every Sunday from 11am – 3pm, and there’s no need to pre-book.
Make a day of your visit by wandering through the two new Wild City galleries, with animal and nature-themed displays that are designed for children and families.
The museum is open daily from 10am – 5pm during Birmingham school holidays, and Wednesday – Sunday during term time.
30. RAF Museum: Midlands, Cosford
The free-to-enter RAF Museum: Midlands contains everything from the world’s oldest Spitfire plane, to a playground with mini models of RAF aircraft to play inside.
Aviation geeks will enjoy walking underneath the wings of the Vulcan, trying on RAF uniforms and seeing the world’s oldest surviving Supermarine Spitfire.
You can even have a go at sitting inside the cockpit of a Phantom or Hunter aircraft.
The museum and playground are open 7 days a week from 10am – 5pm.
The RAF Museum: Midlands in Cosford has amazing aviation models and a themed playgroundCredit: RAF Museum: MidlandsThe Lapworth Museum in Birmingham has a fantastic palaeontology exhibitCredit: Lapworth Museum
31. Free tours of the Lapworth Museum, Birmingham
This specialist geological museum is perfect for the history buffs and budding archaeologists of the family.
The museum regularly hosts comedy, quiz and music events for a small fee, but has plenty of free things to see and do, too.
Here you can look back at 4.6 billion years of history in palaeontology and fossil collections, or marvel at geological displays and historic maps.
There’s also free family tours of the museum, which come on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Just make sure to arrive early and ask at reception, and you’re in with the best chance of receiving a guided tour, free of charge.
32. Musical Picnic and miniBEAST music concerts at The Dome, Birmingham
The University of Birmingham are putting on a series of musical events this spring that are both family-friendly and totally free.
Taking place at The Dome inside the University of Birmingham’s Bramall Music Building, these events provide both live and electronic music options.
The Barber Baby with Musical Picnic events are designed for families with children aged 0 – 4, with creative musical sessions themed around famous paintings.
These take place once a month, with dates available on their website.
The miniBEAST informal concerts play electronic music made by both the staff and students of the University of Birmingham. These take place weekly on Wednesdays.
miniBEAST concerts are completely free and change in theme each sessionCredit: the dome, birminghamTake an immersive, hands-on banker’s tour at The Exchange in BirminghamCredit: The Exchange, birmingham
33. Free arts and crafts, comics and music workshops, The Exchange, Birmingham
The Barber Family events held at The Exchange in Birmingham are free, creative workshops designed for families with children aged 4 – 10.
Upcoming events this spring include musical performances and activities at Sounds of the Sun on March 21, and a Light and Landscape textiles activity on April 1. Both activities take place from 11am – 3pm.
There will also be an exciting comic book workshop on April 18, in which families can take part in a writing and illustration workshop, creating a comic of their own.
These workshops operate as free drop-ins, with no need to reserve a slot.
34. Uncover bank secrets and history with an immersive free family tour, The Exchange, Birmingham
The Exchange in Birmingham City Centre are offering free family immersive tours, where you can explore the fascinating history of the Birmingham Municipal Bank.
A bank clerk character will lead you and your family through a journey marked by mysteries and historical artefacts.
This immersive family tour is entirely free, but make sure to reserve your slot. The tours take place once a month, with tickets available to book in April and May.
35. Stonebridge City Farm, Nottingham
An option for animal lovers is Stonebridge City Farm in Nottingham, which is free to enter but supported by donations as a charity.
This unique working farm in the middle of the city has amazing grounds, with a well-kept wildlife pond and even Japanese gardens.
Plus, there are, of course, plenty of farm animals to meet and greet, including fluffy sheep, goats and rabbits.
And if you have a couple quid to spare, they also run plenty of cheap family and children’s events.
There are regular £2 craft sessions, and Rainbow Stripes on Tuesdays (£3), which is an interactive live music workshop.
The Museum of Lincolnshire Life explores human life in the county from 1750 to todayCredit: museum of lincolnshire lifeMeet over 300 animals at the charity-run Bransby HorsesCredit: Bransby Horses
36. Museum of Lincolnshire Life
If you’ve got any mini history buffs in the family, they’ll enjoy a visit to the Museum of Lincolnshire Life.
The museum takes a deep dive into life in the county, from 1750 to the present day.
There’s an authentic WWI tank, interactive exhibitions and group quiz sessions.
The museum is open from 10am – 4pm throughout the week, closing on Wednesdays and Thursdays.
37. Bransby Horses, Lincolnshire
The charity owns a 600-acre site which is home to over 300 horses, ponies, donkeys and mules.
Visitors can walk through to admire the animals and set up for lunch at the designated picnic area.
Entry is free, although donations are recommended upon visiting to support the charity.
38. Hubbard’s Hills, Lincolnshire
Hubbard’s Hills in Lincolnshire is a vast green space with plenty of trees and a water valley, perfect for getting out in the outdoors.
Here, there’s open space for bringing a bat and ball or running around, dog walking paths, cycling trails and more.
Park up with a homemade picnic on the riverbank, after enjoying a family day out full of fresh air and exercise.
39. Shrewsbury Museum and Art Gallery
Situated in Shrewsbury’s town square, the Shrewsbury Museum and Art Gallery is free to visit and chock-full of things to see and do.
Here, there’s a fascinating geology and fossils gallery, containing woolly mammoth specimens and more rare finds.
There’s also a social and industrial history collection which will transport you back to 18th-century Shropshire through costume, vehicles, machinery and more.
The museum and gallery are open from 10am – 4pm daily, closing on Monday and Sunday.
Sandringham in Norfolk has a giant wooden adventure playgroundCredit: Cap CoSave the money on tickets to Sandringham House and set off on a woodland walkCredit: Getty
40. Sandringham woodland trails and adventure playground, Norfolk
Sandringham in Norfolk attracts many visitors who come to tour the Royal House and gardens, which costs a pricey £26 per ticket.
However, a free family day out can be enjoyed exploring the estate’s 1,300+ acres of forest.
Next to the visitor centre and restaurant, you’ll find a vast open field space that’s perfect for ball games and burning off some energy.
Head towards the woods to find an adventure playground and multiple forest trail routes, which are marked by tall, wooden animal sculptures.
41. Old Hunstanton Beach and RNLI Lifeboat Station, Norfolk
Old Hunstanton Beach is one of Norfolk‘s most family-friendly options and makes for a fantastic day out.
Stroll the coastal path beside Old Hunstanton’s red and white striped cliffs to reach its wide stretch of beach, where there’s plenty of room to run about on soft sands or set up a picnic on the dunes.
There’s plenty of facilities here, including a cafe, loos, a large car park and taps to rinse off.
Plus, Hunstanton Lifeboat Station is right on the beach, with its giant lifeboat and hovercraft on display, alongside a friendly team who are always willing to answer children’s questions.
Hunstanton Lifeboat Station is open from the Easter weekend through to October, 10am – 4pm on Monday – Friday and 9am – 12pm on Sundays.
42. Crabbing and adventure playground in Wells-next-the-Sea, Norfolk
Soak up the sights of Wells-next-the-Sea‘s pretty quayside by bringing along a bucket, bait and wire to go crabbing.
Whilst the main quay can become busy with fishermen loading boats and holidaymakers queuing for fish and chips, the East Quay is a quieter spot to set up and enjoy the views in a more peaceful location.
Plus just around the corner is a giant children’s playground with a colourful pirate ship and skate park, which is right beside the scenic pinewood walk down to the beach.
The friendly RNLI team are on hand to answer any questions your little ones may haveCredit: hunstanton lifeboatThe Fitzwilliam Museum in Cambridge are offering free family drop-ins this springCredit: The Fitzwilliam Museum
43. Family drop-in activities at Fitzwilliam Museum, Cambridge
Cambridge‘s Fitzwilliam Museum offers relaxed morning workshops and craft activities for families.
The family-friendly drop-ins are suitable for all ages, with sensory play, picture books and arts materials available to use.
Family Friendly drop-in events occur monthly, with the first springtime event taking place on March 4 2026.
There is also a free paper fortune-telling crafts event at the museum running from 2pm – 4pm on April 8 – 9.
44. Little Stars and Travellers in Time event at the Whipple Museum, Cambridge
The Whipple Museum of the History of Science is stocked with fascinating collections of instruments and artefacts that the science geeks of the family will love.
Plus this spring, there’s plenty of free family-friendly events to enjoy.
Weekend at the Whipple: Travellers in Time is an all-ages time-travelling adventure in which families can explore the museum’s collection and learn about the history of time. The event will take place from 10am – 4pm on March 28 – 29.
Plus the Little Stars at the Whipple provides a relaxed morning for families to make use of art and sensory play resources in the museum’s Learning Gallery. The event takes place monthly, with the first spring session beginning on March 19.
The museum itself has free entry and some exciting exhibitions for 2026, such as The Art of Deception, where visitors can learn how to spot a fake or forged artefact.
The museum is open from 12:30 – 4:30pm from Monday – Friday, as well as the third Saturday of each month.
45. Felixstowe Activity Park, Suffolk
Smack-bang on Felixstowe‘s scenic seafront, this outdoor activity park has games and sports equipment that are completely free to use.
Here you’ll find everything from climbing walls, table tennis and chess tables for kids, to outdoor fitness equipment.
Make a day of your visit to the seaside town by strolling down the seaside promenade and exploring the seafront gardens.
46. Wildlife Trust nature reserves, Suffolk
Suffolk‘s Wildlife Trust nature reserves stretch all the way along the coast from Lowestoft to Felixstowe, and is home to beautiful landscapes such as green marshes and the calm waters of Lound Lakes.
Pick a section of the nature reserves to explore on foot or by bike, and see which animal species you can spot as a family.
Native wildlife species you may spot include beautiful birds such as Bittern and Avocet, as well as otters, water voles and Chinese water deer.
London’s Science Museum has plenty of interactive activities throughoutCredit: Science MuseumThe Hintze Hall of the Natural History Museum is home to a famous blue whale skeletonCredit: Alamy
47. Christchurch Mansion, Suffolk
Christchurch Mansion in Suffolk is free to enter and full of fascinating rooms and displays to explore as a family.
The 12th-century building has historical rooms kept in period fashions, ranging from the Tudor to the Victorian era.
Step back in time and stroll through stately bedrooms, from the Queen Anne Room to the Butler’s Room, plus explore the kitchen and servants’ quarters.
There are also fascinating collections of historical items, such as old toys and instruments.
Young dinosaur, animal and fossil enthusiasts should look no further than the Natural History Museum.
Its dinosaur specimens and replicas are world-famous – and include part of the first Tyrannosaurus Rex skeleton ever discovered.
The building, in South Kensington, London, is one of the city’s most spectacular architectural attractions in itself.
Although some exhibitions may have an entry fee, general admission to the museum is completely free.
The museum is open daily from 10am – 5:50pm.
49. Science Museum, London
London’s Science Museum has world-class displays and collections, with over 500,000 fascinating objects to discover.
Some of the most jaw-dropping displays include the Black Arrow satellite launcher, the 1928 Gipsy Moth aircraft, and the 1950 Pilot Ace Computer.
There’s also a free interactive gallery for ages 0 – 3 called The Garden, located on the museum’s basement floor.
The museum is open daily from 10am – 6pm. Make sure to pre-book your free tickets online.
The Southbank Centre are hosting a Spring Family Festival in 2026Credit: Southbank CentreCombat shows take place daily at London’s Royal Armouries MuseumCredit: Royal Armouries
50. Spring Family Fun Festival at the Southbank Centre, London
From April 1 – May 31 2026, London’s Southbank Centre will be hosting its Spring Family Fun festival.
The festival comprises both free and paid events, with some of the most exciting free events on offer being poet Michael Rosen’s 80th birthday party and the energy-filled “DanceDanceDiscoPartyFunShow“.
Make sure to check the festival website for the dates and times of specific events, and to pre-book your slot.
51. Character encounters and sea-themed playground at the National Maritime Museum, London
The National Maritime Museum in London’s Greenwich is both free to enter and packed with things for kids to do.
There’s The Cove playground, a sea-themed area with a giant shark, pirate ship and huge kraken with rope tentacles to swing from.
Plus, you can visit the National Maritime Museum every Saturday to discover a different character based on real historical figures with their own fascinating story to tell.
Characters include sailor John Simmonds, who served with Nelson at the Battle of Trafalgar, as well as James Robson, a sailor who served on the greatest tea clipper, Cutty Sark.
The museum is open daily from 10am – 5pm. You can reserve your free booking slot online.
52. Tate Modern, London
The Tate Modern is the perfect place for kids to express themselves through art and creative play.
Once you’ve browsed the range of awe-inspiring galleries and exhibitions, which include works by Picasso, head to Tate Draw.
Here, children can grab a digital sketch pad and watch their drawings come to life on the big screen.
The Tate Modern is open from 10am – 6pm Monday – Thursday, staying open later until 9pm on Fridays and Saturdays.
Character encounters at the National Maritime Museum are an immersive way to explore historyCredit: National Maritime MuseumTate Draw at the Tate Modern lets kids see their work pop up on the big screenCredit: tate modern
53. Daily combat shows at Royal Armouries, London
Exciting combat shows take place daily at the Royal Armouries Museum in London.
Here you can watch authentic combat techniques performed, as well as knight duels and battles with swords, shields and spears.
The demonstrations last 10 – 15 minutes, plus there is allotted time afterwards to handle objects and ask any questions.
Other daily shows include a Celtic warrior’s recounting of Boudica, and first-hand style reenacted tellings of the Battle of Towton and the Battle of Little Bighorn.
The Royal Armouries Museum, London, is open from 10am – 5pm daily during the school holidays, closing on Mondays during term time.
54. Mudchute Park and Farm, East London
Mudchute Park and Farm in East London is another working farm that is free to visit – and has a massive 32 acres of land to explore.
Their courtyard and small animals area has just reopened for the year, where you can visit guinea pigs and rabbits.
Here you can also meet cows, sheep, goats, and more.
The farm is open from 9am – 4pm daily.
Mudchute Park and Farm offers a surreal slice of farm life against the city skylineCredit: Mudchute Park and FarmHandle historic coins with experts at Oxford’s Ashmolean MuseumCredit: Ashmolean Museum
55. MinaLima, London
Found in the heart of Soho in London, MinaLima is the home of the graphic designers of the Harry Potter movies.
Inside, you can explore some of the original props used in the films as well as learn about Mina and Lima and see their designs that featured in the films.
From Bertie Bott’s Every Flavour Bean packaging to the Lestrange’s family tree – they designed something in pretty much every scene.
56. Free children’s animal workshops at the Oxford University Museum of Natural History
Enjoy free entry to the Oxford University Museum of Natural History, and explore its exciting collections.
Free family trails are available from the welcome desk, with a variety of options for children of all ages. Plus, this spring there’s some free family events to look forward to.
The ‘A Little Look At’ series takes a deep dive into various animal species, with a Flying Animals workshop on March 16 and an Ocean Animals edition on April 20.
Another free event held at the museum is Super Science Saturday on March 7, where children can meet scientists and researchers at a science fair full of hands-on activities.
The museum is open from 10am – 5pm daily.
57. Explorer trails and historic coin handling at Ashmolean Museum, Oxford
The Ashmolean Museum in Oxford is full of free hands-on activities that kids will love.
Have a go at handling historic coins in the Money Gallery, where volunteer experts are there to tell you all about the coins from 11am – 3:30pm every Saturday.
There’s also a free explorer activity pack for kids available to pick up from the welcome desk, which is currently themed as the ‘Viking Ashventure’.
The museum is open from 10am – 5pm daily. It’s recommended to book your free tickets ahead of time online.
The Hove Museum of Creativity are hosting outdoor Easter fun games in AprilCredit: Hove museum of creativityThe House of Marbles in Devon has contraptions enjoyed by children and their parents alikeCredit: house of marbles
58. Storytelling sessions and Easter Play Days at Hove Museum of Creativity
The Hove Museum of Creativity is one of the most family-friendly museums in the South of England, with a rotation of bright and colourful exhibitions and activities to enjoy.
Play days at Easter provide free outdoor Easter-themed fun and games over the bank holiday of April 5 – 6.
Storytelling sessions will take place on March 30 and April 6, with morning or afternoon sessions available for ages 4 and under, with a separate story for ages 5+.
The sessions are free and operate on a drop-in basis. Hove Museum of Creativity is open from 10am – 5pm daily, closing on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
59. House of Marbles, Devon
The House of Marbles in Devon is home to four unique museums and is free to visit.
There’s loads of unique marble runs to take part in, including a massive snooker ball-sized contraption as well as a games garden.
Their free games museum can be enjoyed by kids and parents alike, as you learn about the history that inspired Pac-Man and Space Invaders.
House of Marbles is open Monday – Saturday from 9am – 5pm, opening an hour later on Sundays.
60. Explore Dartmoor National Park, Devon
Dartmoor National Park in Devon is a great place for a walk – but you will see much more than hills.
The National Park is home to hundreds of tors, which formed around 280 million years ago, when molten magma solidified in the rock to form granite.
Different spots across the Moor have myths associated with them, making them intriguing to explore.
Another fun activity is looking for letterboxes in the rocks.
One really special feature of this National Park is that there are free-roaming ponies – just note some are friendlier than others!
61. Donkey Sanctuary, Sidmouth
The Donkey Sanctuary in Sidmouth is a special place to visit with kids.
The sanctuary is a working farm with rescued donkeys, and you can walk around different trails to see the herds.
Then head inside to learn all about the donkeys in the exhibition centre.
The site also has a hedge maze, nature trails, a gift shop and The Kitchen, where you can grab a bite to eat.
The sanctuary is open daily from 9am – 4pm.
The Donkey Sanctuary in Sidmouth is the perfect place to meet and greet the gentle animalsCredit: Times Media LtdExplore the Jurassic Coast for its beaches, viewpoints, and maybe find a few fossils along the wayCredit: national trust
62. Explore the Jurassic Coast
The Jurassic Coast stretches across Dorset and East Devon and is a much-loved World Heritage site for beach lovers and dinosaur enthusiasts alike.
Over the 96 miles of coast, there are many famous beaches to explore like Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door.
But one key characteristic of some of the beaches on the Jurassic Coast is that they are fossil-rich, making them the ideal day out for the family.
Free beaches to fossil hunt on include Charmouth and Monmouth Beach – where the rocks have crumbled, revealing many fossils, such as shark teeth, ammonites and belemnites.
Just make sure to check the rules on the specific beach you are visiting, as some don’t allow the rocks to be chiselled at.
63. Spring Fayre at Bath City Farm
Bath City Farm is free to visit – and it’s easy to spend an entire day there exploring its woodland trails, children’s playground, seeing the animals and visiting the farm shop and cafe.
Springtime sees not just the arrival of adorable newborn animals, but fun events such as the popular Spring Fayre and Spring Plant Sale.
The farm is open Tuesday to Saturday from 9am – 4pm, and on Sundays from 9.30am – 4pm.
64. Bluebell Railway, Sussex
The Bluebell Railway in Sussex has plenty to see and do, with an interactive “SteamWorks” exhibition at Sheffield Park station and an outdoor playground at Kingscote station.
There is no charge for platform entry on non-service days, and the gifts and models shop often remains open on these days too.
Make sure to check their website ahead of time for non-service dates.
65. Novium Museum, Chichester
The Novium Museum in Chichester is free to visit and great for families.
At this fascinating museum, families can learn about ages through history, covering the Stone Age to the Saxons.
The museum is open from 10am – 4:30pm Tuesday – Friday, and on Saturdays at 10am – 5pm.
The aptly-named Bluebell Railway is a must for railway enthusiastsCredit: Bluebell RailwayHaldon Forest Park is home to a wooden Gruffalo sculpture found along its trailsCredit: haldon forest park
66. Haldon Forest Park, Exeter
Haldon Forest is full of exciting family activity trails and mountain biking routes.
The most popular is the Discovery Trail – a beautiful winding trail which ends at a picnic spot. Plus, there’s also an impressive Gruffalo sculpture along the way.
Haldon Forest Park is just 15 minutes from Exeter, and home to over 3,500 acres of woodlands to explore.
67. The Jolly Roger, Dartmoor
Hidden in the outskirts ofDartmoorin Bovey Tracey is the exciting indoor attraction, The Jolly Roger.
Here you’ll find incredible showrooms displaying giant animal and dinosaur models – and the best part is, it’s free to visit.
There’s also models of race cars, fairies, life-size animals, pirate boats and more.
You can visit for free from 10am – 4pm Monday – Saturday.
68. Bristol Walk Fest
From May 1 – 31, Bristol Walk Fest invites families and individuals to explore the outdoors on a series of walking events.
Most events are free, and different routes and activities are available for a range of ages and abilities. Some are simple nature routes, whilst others involve wacky costume dress-up and more.
The popular festival attracts over 7,500 attendees each year, and themed walks range from street art discovery to historical tours, led by walk providers.
The travelling Inspiration exhibition lets you uncover new challenges in each of its carriagesCredit: inspiration railwayLet a guide tell you all about its construction and history as you walk Clifton Suspension BridgeCredit: Visit Bristol
69. Inspiration Railway Exhibition, Bristol
Inspiration is a travelling transport exhibition contained within one action-packed train, stopping at Bristol Temple Meads station this March.
Here, families can learn all about the history of railways, the engineering of locomotives and more, all whilst making their way through interactive carriages.
Entry onboard is completely free – just make sure to book your tickets online in advance.
The touring exhibition will be stopping at Bristol from March 23 – 29. You can check the other locations Inspiration is due to stop online at their website.
70. Free guided tours of Clifton Suspension Bridge, Bristol
Towering over Avon Gorge in Bristol, the Clifton Suspension Bridge is a sight to behold – and walking across the giant landmark takes a whole hour!
For families with any budding young architects, you can snap yourself up a free guided tour, where you can learn all about the history, design and construction of the bridge.
The tours last between 45 minutes and an hour, and end at the Clifton Suspension Bridge Museum.
Free tours take place at 3pm on weekends and bank holidays from the Easter weekend through to October. You can book your free tour on the Clifton Suspension Bridge website.
Beginning on the ground floor, you can explore collections that range from the wonders of Ancient Egypt to works by Banksy.
The first floor houses the dinosaur collections and the popular Alfred the Gorilla, whilst the second is home to art galleries with paintings and pottery.
The museum is open from 10am – 5pm from Tuesday – Sunday.
Meet the newborn spring farm animals at Windmill Hill City Farm in Bedminster, BristolCredit: Windmill Hill City FarmOr meet goats and Jersey cows down at Roskilly’s Farm in CornwallCredit: Roskilly’s Farm
72. Windmill Hill City Farm, Bedminster
This free community farm hosts a variety of educational events and fun activities, as well as access to their working farm, outdoor playground and walking trails.
The 4.5-acre farm has animal paddocks and barns, a duck pond, a fairy garden, wildlife gardens, as well as several picnic and play areas.
The farm even offer free hot meals at the weekly Tuesday Supper Club from 5pm – 7pm. These meals also offer fun children’s activities, such as crafts and board games. There’s no need to register.
The farm is open from 9am – 5pm daily.
73. Roskilly’s Farm, Cornwall
Take a free visit to Roskilly’s working farm in Cornwall to meet its friendly farm animals, and of course, find out how their delicious ice cream is made.
Meet animals such as Tamworth piglets and fluffy cows with their newborn calves.
And if you fancy treating the family to a meal out, the Croust House restaurant serves delicious meals and ice creams made from the farm’s very own produce.
74. Baby paint sessions at Falmouth Art Gallery, Cornwall
Falmouth Art Gallery are hosting Baby Paint sessions for families with little ones up to 18 months old this spring.
Sessions take place at either the Falmouth Art Gallery itself or the Dracaena Centre.
Here families can enjoy a messy painting experience with all materials provided – just make sure to dress them in clothes you don’t mind getting dirty!
The sessions are completely free, and last for one hour. Just make sure to book your slot online.
75. The Castle Bude, Cornwall
The Castle Bude is a historic site and heritage museum with lots to see and do, including archives of local history and museum exhibitions that explore everything from sailing to life-saving.
The castle also offer free live music days, such as Coffee, Acoustic and Cake taking place on March 1 and 8.
There’s also free heritage tours available to book each month, with the first spring tour taking place on March 12.
The castle is open from 10am – 4pm daily.
76. Trevaskis Farm, Cornwall
Trevaskis Farm in Hayle, Cornwall, is free to enter and home to a farm park with friendly animals and a farm cafe.
As well as visiting the resident farm animals, you can even pick your own fruits and vegetables, including strawberries, raspberries and beans.
Farm entrance is free, but if you do choose to take part in the pick-your-own experience, you must pay a small charge for what you pick.
The farm is open from 8am – 7pm daily.
Mildred the woolly mammoth is a must-see at The Box in PlymouthCredit: The Box, PlymouthThe Castle Bude are running free heritage tours and music, coffee and cake events this springCredit: Revd mark james photography
77. The Box, Plymouth
The Box in Plymouth is a free-entry family attraction with free trails, drop-in activities and changing exhibitions.
Grab a family trail upon arrival, head to the craft creation tables, or explore the current exhibitions, which include Beryl Cook: Pride and Joy.
There’s also free storytelling sessions for under-5s every Friday from 10:30am – 11am, where afterwards children can meet Mildred the Mammoth or settle down with some crafts.
The Box in Plymouth is open from 10am – 5pm from Tuesday – Sunday.
Scotland
78. Crafternoons at The Scottish Parliament, Edinburgh
Drop in for an afternoon of completely free arts activities for all ages at Crafternoons, held at the Main Hall of the Scottish Parliament.
Each week, the craft activities change in theme, with previous themes including ink stamping and origami.
The building also has public areas with permanent exhibitions to explore, including an art collection and regular short talks.
Crafternoons sessions take place between 11am – 4pm every Saturday.
79. Edinburgh International Children’s Festival
This 9-day festival is packed with performances to bring the whole family along to.
Celebrating the best in children’s theatre, circus and dance shows, with free pop-up events taking place in the National Museum of Scotland.
Theatre groups, actors and dancers travel from all over the world to perform at the festival, which showcases a wide range of shows from slapstick comedy to beautiful dances with colourful fabrics.
80. Adventure Planet and Imagine zone, National Museum of Scotland, Edinburgh
The free-to-enter National Museum of Scotland is home to two large play areas that kids will love: Adventure Planet and Imagine.
Adventure Planet is full of hands-on and interactive games, such as design games, puzzles, digital games and dress-up.
Imagine, on the other hand, having a musical floor to step all over, funny distorted mirrors, or a cosy reading corner to head into to wind down with a story.
The National Museum of Scotland is free to enter, with Adventure Planet located on Level 5 of the museum and Imagine on Level 1.
Edinburgh Children’s Festival is packed with theatre, dance and circus shows for kidsCredit: Edinburgh Children’s FestivalThe National Museum of Scotland has an interactive Imagine zone and Adventure PlanetCredit: National Museum of Scotland
81. Tech Decoded at the National Museum of Scotland, Edinburgh
This free pop-up for kids is part of the 2026 Edinburgh Science Festival, which takes place from 4 – 19 April 2026.
Here, kids of all ages can get hands-on with electrical circuits, machine learning and get to grips with all things tech – from AI to coding.
The event runs from 10am – 5pm daily, as a drop-in with no need to book ahead.
Tech Decoded will take place from 13 – 19 April 2026 at Hawthornden Court in the National Museum of Scotland.
82. Riverside Museum, Glasgow
The Riverside Museum in Glasgow offers free admission and has plenty to see and do for all ages.
Main Street will transport you to the Glasgow of the early 20th century, as you can pop in and out of historical shops with fully-decorated interiors.
There’s plenty of transport marvels here, too, such as the South African Loco 3007 locomotive, life-size buses and boat models.
83. Free Lego building sessions, Glasgow
These free, drop-in Lego building sessions take place in various libraries across Glasgow on a weekly basis throughout 2026.
Both regular kits and various Lego set collections are available, so the whole family can get stuck into building something spectacular.
Participating libraries include the Castlemilk Library, Elder Park Library, Bridgeton Library and more.
There’s no need to book, and there is a full list of libraries, dates and times available on the event website.
84. Art for Baby workshops at the Gallery of Modern Art, Glasgow
These workshops for babies aged 0 to walking age are informal gatherings where you can meet other families, and even create crafts together to take home.
The workshops take place in the gallery’s rooftop studio, with toys, books and simple art projects available.
The workshops are free to attend, but you must reserve your slot in advance online.
Families in Glasgow can take part in drop-in Lego building sessions across the cityCredit: SOPA Images/LightRocket via GettThe Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum is holding weekly children’s Discover sessionsCredit: Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum
Here, families can discuss and handle objects from the museum‘s collections, as well as undertake some creative tasks.
The Discover sessions operate on a drop-in basis, from 1:30pm – 4pm every Saturday.
86. Family fun craft workshops at Art Gallery, Aberdeen
These themed weekly craft sessions at the Art Gallery, Aberdeen are free to attend and suitable for families with children aged 5 – 12.
Themes throughout the spring include paper sculptures, decorate your own treasure box, and portraits.
The weekly drop-in sessions will run on Saturdays from 1pm – 3pm from March 28 – June 6, 2026.
The Art Gallery itself is free to visit, and open from 10am – 5pm Monday – Saturday and 11am – 4pm on Sundays.
The Kelpies in Helix Park are a remarkable sight to behold, but the park has even more to seeCredit: AlamyHelix Park even has a unique outdoor adventure playgroundCredit: helix park
87. Zoology Museum with free tours, Aberdeen
The Zoology Museum in Aberdeen charges no admission fee, and has many fascinating animal collections.
Popular displays include Rani the tiger, as well as collections of beautiful butterflies and beetles.
There are also free guided tours available on Wednesdays during term time, from 12 – 12:45pm. Reserving your slot for tours online is advised.
The museum is open from 10am – 4pm on weekdays, closing on weekends.
88. The Kelpies and Helix Park, Falkirk
The Kelpies in Falkirk are two giant horse head sculptures overlooking Helix Park, and are well worth the visit to see the sculptures alone.
However, the Helix Park site happens to have lots for kids to do, too, including an Adventure Zone with rope bridges, swings, slides and even its very own Splash Play Area.
Plus there’s plenty of scenic walking and cycling routes too.
Wales and Northern Ireland
89. Visit newborn lambs at Llwyn yr Eos farm, Cardiff, Wales
What better way to celebrate the spring than going to see some adorable newborn lambs?
At Llwyn yr Eos farm in Cardiff, visitors can watch newborn lambs be born in the farm’s lambing shed.
From March 1 – 28, 2026, lambing at Llwyn yr Eos farm will be open to the public to visit for free from 10am – 5pm.
Meet newborn lambs at Llwyn yr Eos farm, part of the St Fagans National Museum of HistoryCredit: Llwyn yr Eos farmLittle Movers, Little Speakers is held at St Fagans National Museum of History in CardiffCredit: St Fagans National Museum of history
90. Little Movers, Little Speakers play group, Cardiff, Wales
Little Movers, Little Speakers is a free group designed for families with babies aged 6 weeks to 12 months and their parents.
These monthly family sessions combine music and movement play with the Welsh language.
Sessions take place at the St Fagans National Museum of History. Attendance is free, and you’re able to view upcoming dates and reserve your space on the group’s website.
91. Geocaching in Snowdonia, Wales
Geocaching is an exciting activity for families with children of all ages, and can make for an energy-burning day out exploring nature.
Geocaching is essentially a huge outdoors treasure hunt – and it’s also totally free!
Tucked away in nooks of the National Park and in the UK beyond, you’ll find stashes of hidden items and letters known as caches.
Simply sign up for a geocaching website, and follow the clues to find the hidden item. signing your name upon arrival to prove that you were there.
Geocaching is particularly popular in Snowdonia, with the park attracting many hiking visitors throughout the year who leave hidden items for others to find.
The Big Pit National Coal Museum also offers a paid underground tourCredit: Big Pit National Coal MuseumSnowdonia is one of the most geocache-dense areas of the countryCredit: geocaching
92. Big Pit National Coal Museum, Pontypool, Wales
The Big Pit National Coal Museum in Wales is free to enter, and is a real coal mine as well as a museum with mining galleries.
The museum, which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, takes you through a fascinating audio-visual experience that teaches you all about the Welsh mining industry.
The museum is open daily from 9:30am – 5pm.
93. Go rock pooling on the Pembrokeshire Coast, Wales
For a cost-free afternoon that feels like a mini-expedition, take the family rockpooling along the Pembrokeshire Coast.
At low tide, beaches like Broad Haven, Wisemans Bridge, and the wilder Freshwater West transform into secret saltwater worlds.
Kids can spend hours peering into crevices to spot devil crabs with their bright red eyes or translucent shrimp darting through the waters.
It’s a brilliant way to connect with nature without spending a penny – just make sure to pack some sturdy wellies for those seaweed-covered rocks!
94. Oriel Science, Swansea, Wales
For a brain-boosting indoor day out for the whole family, try Oriel Science in Swansea.
This free-entry interactive attraction brings local scientific research to life through hands-on exhibits that turn complex science into a playground.
Science corner activities are a permanent and free option at the museum, with mini experiments and crafts available aimed towards younger children.
The centre is open from 10am – 4pm on Saturdays only.
95. Belfast Children’s Festival, Northern Ireland
Belfast Children’s Festival are hosting a range of both free and paid events in the first few weeks of March 2026.
‘Drop‘ is a free theatrical comedy and clowning show for 0 – 6 year-olds, whereas the Festive Family Day Out in the city’s Cathedral Quarter will see a day full of pop-up storytelling, circus acts and more.
Belfast Children’s Festival runs from March 5 – March 14 2026 at various venues across the city. Check the website for more information on specific events.
Free pop-up theatrical events will take place throughout the city for Belfast Children’s FestivalCredit: Belfast Children’s FestivalThe Ulster Museum’s Discovery Centre has activities including dress-up and sensory playCredit: ulster museum, belfast
96. Free kids discovery centre at the Ulster Museum, Belfast, Northern Ireland
The Ulster Museum in Belfast is a great place to enjoy a rainy day out, with lots to see and do for free.
Explore exhibitions like the scientific Elements or Inclusive Global Histories.
Kids will love the Discovery Centres, which house art, history and nature-themed sections with activities like dress-up and a big sensory tree to crawl inside.
The museum and Discovery Centres are open from 10am – 5pm, Tuesday – Sunday.
97. The Linen Hall, Belfast, Northern Ireland
As Belfast’s oldest library, The Linen Hall has plenty to please the bookworms in the family.
Explore the collections, including Irish and Local Studies, Theatre and Performing Arts and more.
Or simply grab a book from the General Lending section and settle down for a couple of hours of quiet reading.
The Linen Hall is open from 9:30am – 5pm, Monday – Saturday.
98. Urban Farm, Carrickfergus, Northern Ireland
This free-to-visit farm in Carrickfergus, County Antrim, is home to all the usual farm animals like pigs, goats and chickens, as well as ponies and small pets, too.
You’ll also find the non-profit cafe called the Dancing Goat, serving hot drinks, soups, salads and sandwiches, with all money received going back into the local community.
The farm is open from 9:30am – 4pm throughout the week, and closed on Sundays.
Head out for a day of rockpooling to see which unique sea creatures you can spotCredit: AlamyGosford Forest Park is home to a unique wooden playground and plenty of red deer to spotCredit: Gosford Forest Park
99. Family walking trails at Gortin Glen Forest Park, Omagh, Northern Ireland
Gortin Glen Forest Park in Omagh has six exciting walking trails to choose from, each varying in difficulty.
The park is home to one of County Tyrone’s Giants of the Sperrins – huge wooden sculptures inspired by folklore that are said to watch over the past, present and future.
You can see Darach, the so-called guardian of the present, if you take the Mullaghcarn Trail.
100. Deer-spotting at Gosford Forest Park, Armagh, Northern Ireland
As the sunshine returns and blue skies open up again, head outdoors to Gosford Forest Park in Armagh to make the most of the green landscapes and local wildlife.
Whether you choose to bring your bikes and cycle the routes, or simply stroll and take in the fresh air, you won’t regret getting outdoors into the forest this spring.
Plus, Gosford Forest Park is home to a giant wooden playground, as well as a herd of striking red deer that you may encounter from afar on your walk.
In a smoothly run show peppered with sharp humor but, for the most part, a dearth of pointed political commentary — save for one unscripted expression of anti-ICE sentiment from “The White Lotus” star Natasha Rothwell — the 2026 Film Independent Spirit Awards celebrated its 41st edition on Sunday in Hollywood.
The ceremony has long served as a counterpoint to the Oscars: looser, more unpredictable, typically mounted in a beach tent by the Santa Monica Pier. For over three decades, it was held the Saturday afternoon right before the Academy Awards.
But this year, due to coastal planning for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, the Spirit Awards relocated to the Hollywood Palladium (where they were last held in 1994), a venue decked out in the show’s signature blue and pink signage and decor — a pivot that proved effective.
“We don’t have a permit,” cracked host Ego Nwodim, riffing on scrappy independent tactics in her monologue. Her athletic hosting duties had her doing everything from cornering attending celebs such as Kirsten Dunst and Jesse Plemons via a “sexual tension cam” to picking up her falafel order at the main entrance on Sunset Boulevard.
Last year’s event played more like a coronation for a widely favored front-runner, Sean Baker‘s “Anora.” That film would go on to sweep at the Oscars a little over a week later. The mood today was more tenuous, the industry crowd mulling in the lobby with cocktails, discussing the tail end of awards season and the controversy coming out of the Berlin Film Festival concerning politically cautious juror statements.
The movies that would be honored here, by contrast, were bolder than the Spirits usually go, resulting in a truly independent raft of winners. Rose Byrne won the lead actor prize (the Spirits have gone gender-neutral since 2022) for her commanding, ruinous turn in “If I Legs I’d Kick You.” Accepting the award, Byrne half-joked, “This character of Linda really could only exist in an independent film — she’s fierce and she’s gracious and she’s a middle-aged woman.”
Other awardees included the subtly wrought academia drama “Sorry, Baby,” honored for director Eva Victor‘s screenplay and its supporting actor Naomi Ackie; the star-stalking thriller “Lurker,” which took both the first feature and first screenplay awards; and Brazil’s “The Secret Agent,” claiming the prize for international film.
The afternoon’s big winner was “Train Dreams,” the little movie that could, one that emerged 13 months ago at Sundance 2025 and is now proving itself to be one of Netflix’s sturdiest Oscar contenders. It took prizes for best feature, director and cinematography, the kind of haul that suggests real momentum.
A complete list of today’s Spirit winners
FILM CATEGORIES
Best Feature “Train Dreams” (Netflix) Producers: Michael Heimler, Will Janowitz, Marissa McMahon, Ashley Schlaifer, Teddy Schwarzman
Director Clint Bentley, “Train Dreams” (Netflix)
Screenplay Eva Victor, “Sorry, Baby” (A24)
First Feature “Lurker” (Mubi) Director: Alex Russell Producers: Galen Core, Archie Madekwe, Marc Marrie, Charlie McDowell, Francesco Melzi D’Eril, Duncan Montgomery, Alex Orlovsky, Olmo Schnabel, Jack Selby
First Screenplay Alex Russell, “Lurker” (Mubi)
John Cassavetes Award For the best feature made under $1,000,000 “Esta Isla (This Island)” Writers/Directors/Producers: Cristian Carretero, Lorraine Jones Molina Writer: Kisha Tikina Burgos
Breakthrough Performance Kayo Martin, “The Plague” (Independent Film Company)
Lead Performance Rose Byrne, “If I Had Legs I’d Kick You” (A24)
Robert Altman Award For a film’s director, casting director and ensemble cast “The Long Walk” (Lionsgate) Director: Francis Lawrence Casting Director: Rich Delia Ensemble Cast: Judy Greer, Mark Hamill, Cooper Hoffman, David Jonsson, Tut Nyuot, Joshua Odjick, Charlie Plummer, Ben Wang, Garrett Wareing
Editing Sofía Subercaseaux, “The Testament of Ann Lee” (Searchlight Pictures)
International Film “The Secret Agent” (Neon) Director: Kleber Mendonça Filho
Documentary “The Perfect Neighbor” (Netflix) Director/Producer: Geeta Gandbhir Producers: Sam Bisbee, Nikon Kwantu, Alisa Payne
Someone to Watch Given to a talented filmmaker not yet widely recognized Tatti Ribeiro, “Valentina”
Truer Than Fiction Given to an emerging director of nonfiction features Rajee Samarasinghe, “Your Touch Makes Others Invisible”
Producers Award For an emerging producer of quality independent films with limited resources Tony Yang
TELEVISION CATEGORIES
New Scripted Series “Adolescence” (Netflix) Creators/Executive Producers: Jack Thorne, Stephen Graham Executive Producers: Philip Barantini, Brad Pitt, Dede Gardner, Jeremy Kleiner, Nina Wolarsky, Hannah Walters, Mark Herbert, Emily Feller Co-Executive Producers: Carina Sposato, Niall Shamma, Peter Balm
New Non-Scripted or Documentary Series “Pee-wee as Himself” (HBO Max) Executive Producers: Matt Wolf, Emma Tillinger Koskoff, Ronald Bronstein, Eli Bush, Benny Safdie, Josh Safdie, Paul Reubens, Candace Tomarken, Kyle Martin, Nancy Abraham, Lisa Heller, Sara Rodriguez
Breakthrough Performance in a New Scripted Series Owen Cooper, “Adolescence” (Netflix)
Supporting Performance in a New Scripted Series Erin Doherty, “Adolescence” (Netflix)
Lead Performance in a New Scripted Series Stephen Graham, “Adolescence” (Netflix)
Ensemble Cast in a New Scripted Series “Chief of War” (Apple TV) Ensemble Cast: Charlie Brumbly, Luciane Buchanan, Cliff Curtis, Brandon Finn, Moses Goods, Te Ao o Hinepehinga, Benjamin Hoetjes, Siua Ikale’o, Keala Kahuanui-Paleka, Mainei Kinimaka, Kaina Makua, Jason Momoa, Temuera Morrison, Te Kohe Tuhaka, James Udom
These are the key developments from day 1,453 of Russia’s war on Ukraine.
Published On 16 Feb 202616 Feb 2026
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Here is where things stand on Monday, February 16:
Fighting
Russian forces launched attacks across Ukraine on Sunday, wounding six people in the central-eastern Dnipropetrovsk region, three in the northeastern Sumy region, and two in the southeastern city of Zaporizhzhia, the Ukrinform news outlet reported, citing local officials.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Russia has launched about 1,300 drones, 1,200 guided aerial bombs and dozens of ballistic missiles at Ukraine over the past week alone.
About 1,600 buildings in the Ukrainian capital, Kyiv, remained without heat on Sunday following recent Russian attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, officials said.
Deputy Prime Minister Oleksii Kuleba said Russian strikes overnight on Sunday had damaged railroad infrastructure in the southern region of Odesa and the Dnipropetrovsk region.
The Ukrainian military said in a statement that it hit a key oil terminal in southern Russia, near the Moscow-annexed Crimean Peninsula, on Sunday. The attack was on the Tamanneftegaz oil terminal near the village of Volna in the Krasnodar region.
Ukrainian forces also launched a drone attack on the Russian Black Sea port of Taman, which handles oil products, grain, coal and commodities, causing damage and triggering several fires, according to Veniamin Kondratyev, the governor of Russia’s Krasnodar region. He said more than 100 people were working to put out the fires.
Kondratyev said there were more Ukrainian attacks on the Russian resort city of Sochi and the village of Yurovka, close to the seaside town of Anapa. They caused less significant damage, he added.
Russian air defences downed five drones approaching the Russian capital, Moscow, according to Mayor Sergei Sobyanin.
A Ukrainian attack also left five municipalities in the Russian border region of Bryansk and parts of its capital without heat and electricity, Governor Alexander Bogomaz said.
Russia’s Ministry of Defence said on Sunday that its troops had taken the village of Tsvitkove in the southeastern Zaporizhia region, according to the TASS news agency. Russia controls about 75 percent of the Zaporizhia region, but battle lines had been largely static since 2022 until recent Russian advances.
Russia’s army chief, Valery Gerasimov, said on Sunday that Russian troops had seized a dozen villages in eastern Ukraine in February. He made the announcement while visiting Russian troops in Ukraine, the AFP news agency reported.
Politics and diplomacy
Ukraine’s National Anti-Corruption Bureau arrested the country’s former energy minister, German Galushchenko, who resigned in November amid a huge corruption scandal, as he tried to cross Ukraine’s border.
Zelenskyy said in a statement that Ukraine has agreed to new energy and military support packages with European allies.
The European Union’s foreign policy chief, Kaja Kallas, said she felt that the bloc’s governments were not ready to give Ukraine a date for membership into the EU, despite demands from Zelenskyy.
Latvian President Edgars Rinkevics echoed Kallas’s comments, saying that “there is no readiness to accept a date” for Ukrainian membership. He added that he has little hope of an imminent peace deal between Russia and Ukraine.
Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico has accused Ukraine of delaying the restart of a pipeline carrying Russian oil to Eastern Europe via Ukraine to “blackmail” Hungary to drop its opposition to Ukraine’s future EU membership.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un presided over the completion ceremony of a new housing district in Pyongyang for families of troops who died in overseas military operations, state media KCNA reported. It is believed that more than 6,000 North Korean soldiers were killed while fighting alongside Russian troops in Ukraine.
Russia will not end the militarisation of its economy after fighting in Ukraine ends, the head of Latvia’s intelligence agency, Egils Zviedris, told the AFP news agency on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference, which ended on Sunday.
A wounded Ukrainian serviceman walks in a street in Kyiv during snow fall on Sunday, February 15 [Sergei Supinsky/AFP]
Watch out for the 100ml limit on some types of food
Passengers heading on flights should look at specific airline guidelines to know what they can bring on board, as there are a number of restrictions they have to stick to(Image: georgeclerk via Getty Images)
Picking up a snack or beverage during your flight can make a real difference to your travel experience when jetting off on holiday. Carriers like easyJet offer a wide selection of refreshments and nibbles available for purchase.
That said, these items can come with a hefty price tag, and when you’re travelling with the whole family, the bill can quickly spiral. Fortunately, passengers are typically allowed to bring their own food on board, though certain products are completely banned.
Exact regulations differ between airlines, but there are standard restrictions that apply across most UK carriers in 2026.
EasyJet permits passengers to bring their own food on flights, whilst also providing an assortment of snacks and beverages for sale during the journey.
The airline urges travellers to familiarise themselves with particular rules concerning the importation of certain food products at their destination, reports the Express.
EasyJet said: “There’s a 100ml limit for liquid food, like soup or custard. Different countries have different regulations about importing food and drink, so make sure you check the rules for your destination.
“You can bring alcohol bought in the airside departure lounge into the cabin, as long as it’s unopened. Alcohol must be lower than 70% abv, and packed either in an airport shopping bag or in your cabin bag. It’s strictly forbidden to drink any alcohol that has not been purchased on board the aircraft and those found consuming their own alcohol may face prosecution.
“You can bring hot drinks on board if you’ve bought them at the airport and they have a lid on.
“The 100ml liquid limit doesn’t apply to baby food, milk or sterilised water, provided that the total amount is no more than two litres. You may be asked to taste it for security reasons.”
Banned food and drinks on easyJet flights
Any liquid food over 100ml, like soup, yoghurt or custard
Bottles of alcohol that have been opened. Alcoholic beverages may only be consumed if purchased on board during the flight.
When we decided to rank the best Los Angeles movies, we thought 101 titles would be plenty: room enough for undeniable classics, personal obsessions, even a guilty pleasure or two. Of course it wasn’t. You let us know, endorsing many of our selections but insisting we’d missed a few.
Sifting through your responses, 14 films had the most passionate advocacy. You’ll find them listed below in alphabetical order. Together they make up a perfectly valid alternate list, one that captures the glamour and romance of L.A. — as well as its lovable plasticity — just as well.
‘American Gigolo’ (1980)
Richard Gere and Lauren Hutton in the movie “American Gigolo.”
(Paramount Pictures)
Reader Cindy Simon from Pacific Palisades shares an anecdote: “I had just moved to L.A. from New Jersey. My friend and I — young mothers — ducked out of our baby-centered life to see ‘American Gigolo.’ The first scene was the incredible Richard Gere smoothly walking outside a Malibu beach house. My friend and I literally gasped!”
There is so much to recommend to this movie — an excellent choice and a regrettable omission on our part. Not only is it responsible for introducing Blondie’s “Call Me” to the world, it does so via an opening credits scene of Pacific Coast Highway cruising that all but defined L.A. hedonism as the ’70s became the ’80s.
‘The Anniversary Party’ (2001)
Jennifer Beals, Alan Cumming and Jennifer Jason Leigh in the movie “The Anniversary Party.”
(Peter Sorel / Fine Line Features)
“A dysfunctional showbiz marriage in the Hollywood Hills, a party with a lost dog, what’s not to love?” asks reader Jim Ehlers of Pasadena. “It’s so iconically L.A. — the sexy mid-century modern house. When do you get Parker Posey, Gwyneth Paltrow and John C. Reilly in the same cast?”
That spectacular glass-walled home in the Hollywood Hills is the Schaarman House, designed by architect Richard Neutra. But fans know the movie for other reasons: Phoebe Cates came out of retirement to act with her “Fast Times at Ridgemont High” co-star Jennifer Jason Leigh. Today’s audiences ogle a young Alan Cumming.
‘City of Gold’ (2015)
Jonathan Gold in the documentary “City of Gold.”
(Sundance Selects)
Junko Garrett of Eagle Rock says this documentary “captures the essence of L.A.: diversity and vibrancy, amazing food and people. I was a big fan of Jonathan Gold’s articles and looked forward them every week.”
So did we. Gold’s omnivorous enthusiasm remains a guiding light for so many Angelenos and his Pulitzer-winning food writing is easy to find. We’re still going to several of the film’s featured restaurants: Jitlada, Chengdu Taste, Guelaguetza.
‘Crash’ (2004)
Thandiwe Newton and Matt Dillon in the movie “Crash.”
(Lorey Sebastian / Lions Gate Films)
More than a few of our readers bemoaned the omission of an Oscar-winning best picture like “Crash.” Says Jim Rodriguez of Torrance, it “captures the quintessential reality that, in L.A., all the levels of social strata, at one time or another, exist side by side on our roads and freeways, separated by a few feet, metal and glass. And yet, still so isolated from each other.”
And Ian Barnard of DTLA calls the movie “a wonderful antidote to Hollywood’s whitewashed and unrealistically glamorous depictions of L.A.” It shows the city “in all its diversity, prejudices, contradictions, inequities and generosities.”
To us, “Crash” will always be the movie that stole “Brokeback Mountain’s” glory. But let’s be generous and note that Carney’s Restaurant on Ventura gets a nice moment.
‘The Day of the Locust’ (1975)
William Atherton, left, and Donald Sutherland in the movie “The Day of the Locust.”
(Paramount Pictures / Getty Images)
The Nathanael West novel is, of course, essential, so where’s the movie? Reader Andrea Hales, a San Diegan who lived in Los Angeles for 15 years, calls the film version “eerie and fascinating, capturing the essence of Los Angeles: the city of hopes and dreams, fires and riots. The setting is 1930s Hollywood but it could be today.”
One thing is certain: As a one-stop shop for classic L.A. locations, you can’t do much better than “The Day of the Locust,” which takes us to the Ennis House, Paramount’s iconic Bronson Gate and Grauman’s Chinese Theatre.
‘Earthquake’ (1974)
A scene from the movie “Earthquake.”
(United Archives / Hulton Archive / Getty Images)
Reader Dina Schweim, writing from Winston-Salem, N.C. (fine, we’ll allow an outsider’s perspective in this case), expressed her disappointment to not find “Earthquake” on our list: “There are few things I love more than a good disaster movie that obliterates L.A. to balance out fanciful and the corrupt — and yes, I was pleased to see that ‘Volcano’ made the list but ‘Earthquake’ really does capture the raw core of what destruction in L.A. can look like.”
The film was mostly shot on the Universal backlot and we wish it had more of an authentic L.A. feel. Still, if you harbor satisfaction at seeing the city get trashed (and who doesn’t on occasion?), we’re not getting in the way of that rumble.
‘(500) Days of Summer’ (2009)
Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Zooey Deschanel in the movie “(500) Days of Summer.”
(Chuck Zlotnick / Fox Searchlight Pictures)
You like this one. Really like it. “It celebrates and beautifies the city in a way few other movies ever have,” says Anthony Cavalluzzi of Yorba Linda, adding, “Its absence completely invalidates the list.” And Michael Backauskas of Beverlywood writes, “I went to see it five times and I never do that.”
Any film about an aspiring architect is going to make the most of its locations. If you mourn the lovers’ bench at Angel’s Knoll Park, know that it became immortal because of this film.
‘Get Shorty (1995)’
John Travolta and Rene Russo in the movie “Get Shorty.”
(MGM)
This comedy’s dialogue was quoted in our comments twice. For reader Sean Dickerson of Beverly Grove, the movie gives us “maybe the greatest line about our city: ‘What is the point of living in L.A. if you’re not in the movie business?’” And for David Hughes of Sierra Madre, the moment comes when John Travolta’s gangster-turned-Hollywood-wannabe is asked what he knows about the movie business: “I don’t think the producer has to know much.”
There is an unforced charm to the way Travolta’s character falls in love with Hollywood — he’s already a movie geek but other elements fall into place for him. Eagle-eyed viewers will recognize both the Aero and Vista theaters.
‘Grand Canyon’ (1991)
Kevin Kline and Danny Glover in the movie “Grand Canyon.”
(20th Century Fox)
Paul Krekorian of Encino calls this one “a brilliant and underrated study of life in Los Angeles. In a deeply personal way it lays bare so many of the societal challenges Los Angeles always struggles with — economic segregation, racial division and injustice, violence, the disparity between Hollywood-created facades and the reality of ordinary life, and the struggle to find meaning and substance.”
Its writer and director, Lawrence Kasdan, was also responsible for “The Big Chill,” a similar portrait of generational flux, and there are quiet moments in “Grand Canyon” that are some of his best. It also starts with a Lakers game.
‘Knight of Cups’ (2015)
Christian Bale in the movie “Knight of Cups.”
(Melinda Sue Gordon / Broad Green Pictures)
Reader Peter Turman of Brentwood sees depth in Terrence Malick’s oblique portrait of a distracted screenwriter (Christian Bale) searching for grace but finding a lot of sex, calling it “a fever-dream meditation on Los Angeles and Hollywood, with its promises, chimeras, illusions, seductions, nightmares and disappointments, told by a great filmmaker who knows of what he speaks.”
Malick shot all over Los Angeles but his moments on the Warner Bros. lot, the enormous numbered studio buildings looming, may be his most beautiful.
‘Lost Highway’ (1997)
Patricia Arquette and Balthazar Getty in the movie “Lost Highway.”
(October Films)
Even with two other David Lynch films placing on our list, that wasn’t enough for Clark Leazier of West Hollywood, who calls the L.A. vistas and landmarks in “Lost Highway” “the most burned in my brain — particularly the Firestone Auto Shop that is now the popular All Season Brewing in Mid City. Also it captures Southern California nighttime driving in a messed up yet accurate way.”
Lynch obsessives know “Lost Highway” to be the one narrative film in which you can see the director’s own house, part of his compound on Senalda Drive in the Hollywood Hills, used as the setting for his main characters’ mansion.
‘Spanglish’ (2004)
Paz Vega, left, Téa Leoni and Adam Sandler in the movie “Spanglish.”
(Bob Marshak / Columbia Pictures )
Says Rochelle Lapides of Ventura County, “It tells one of the essential stories of our Los Angeles-bound Mexican immigrant population and the cultural challenges they face. Also, in my opinion, it’s one of Adam Sandler’s best dramatic roles.”
Agreed, especially on Sandler, whose turn in “Punch-Drunk Love” so impressed director James L. Brooks, he decided to cast him here. The film’s romantic patio scene is filmed at the Beverly Hills restaurant Il Cielo.
‘Star 80’ (1983)
Mariel Hemingway, left, Eric Roberts and Cliff Robertson in the movie “Star 80.”
(Paramount Pictures / Getty Images)
“Talk about dying for the dream,” writes William Mariano of Escondido. “It was filmed in the same spot she died.” He means Playboy model Dorothy Stratten, murdered by her sicko husband Paul Snider in a Rancho Park home that was actually used by the movie’s production while filming their dramatization of the crime.
“Star 80” does crystallize the ominous side of the L.A. myth, as a place where you’ll arrive, find success (and exploitation) and be destroyed in the process. Bob Fosse completists need to see it; it was the “All That Jazz” director’s final movie.
‘Tequila Sunrise’ (1988)
Kurt Russell, Michelle Pfeiffer and Mel Gibson in the movie “Tequila Sunrise.”
(Warner Bros. Pictures)
Jean Clark of Manhattan Beach celebrates this thriller’s cast, cinematography and plot, which she sums up as “classic good guy vs. bad guy and the woman who loves them both, set against the dark underbelly of glamorous L.A. and its golden beaches back in the 1980s.”
And Jean would know — the movie was largely shot around Manhattan Beach. But don’t go looking for Michelle Pfeiffer’s restaurant Vallenari’s. It was entirely constructed on a soundstage.
With 5.6 million Brits vaping, travellers are warned to check strict new overseas laws or risk fines, confiscation and legal trouble abroad
Avoid bringing this electrical device on holiday or risk huge fines and possible prosecution(Image: Getty Images)
British holidaymakers are being warned to double check vaping laws before booking trips abroad after a number of popular holiday destinations tightened restrictions. Online retailer HAYPP says they could risk fines or even legal trouble if local e-cigarette rules are ignored.
Vaping remains hugely popular in the UK with anti-smoking charity Action on Smoking and Health (ASH) reporting around 5.6 million adults currently use e-cigarettes — which amounts to roughly 11 per cent of the total adult population. ASH explained how vaping is particularly common among younger adults between the ages of 18 and 24.
Unsurprisingly, many travellers choose to pack their vapes when heading on holiday — but with international laws varying so widely, doing so could prove a costly mistake. HAYPP‘s Head of Legal & External Affairs, Markus Lindblad, says people must familiarise themselves with the rules as soon as possible to avoid expensive on-the-spot penalties or confiscation.
“Ignorance of your destination country’s laws could wreak havoc on your holiday plans,” he warned. But which countries are a no-go for vapers? The Mirror has a detailed breakdown of everything you need to know before jetting off.
Mexico
On January 16, 2026, Mexico introduced a nationwide ban on the importation, sale and distribution of e-cigarettes and vapes. Lindblad warns that custom officials in destinations like Cancun, Cabo San Lucas or Cozumel are strong enforcers of the ban, and bringing one with you could come with hefty fines of up to £360. “Brits are being warned to leave their vapes at home”, he said.
Vietnam
According to HAYPP, Vietnam is tightening its grip on vaping products in 2026 with increased enforcement of rules around sale, import and public use. Though Cambodia and Laos has already banned vapes entirely, the online retailer says visitors should expect stricter airport checks, and that they should consider leaving the device behind before heading to the airport.
Singapore
Singapore maintains some of the world’s strictest rules against vaping, HAYPP claims. Possession and use of e-cigarettes remain illegal with fines of up to 2,000 Singapore dollars (around £1,150), as well as possible prosecution.
Malaysia
Maldives has followed suit and also restricted vape imports this year, with custom officials now authorised to confiscate the products on arrival. Bans on possession and public use are expected to tighten, warns HAYPP, particularly in tourist hubs like Kuala Lampur and Penang.
Maldives
Last but not least, Lindblad explains how any vape-loving holidaymakers from the UK should probably cross the Maldives off their list. That’s because the country has outlawed vape imports with the devices confiscated upon arrival. If you arrive into the Maldives with your e-cigarette or similar electronic device, you may face fines or further legal action, even for personal use, particularly at Malé International Airport.
These are the key developments from day 1,450 of Russia’s war on Ukraine.
Published On 13 Feb 202613 Feb 2026
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Here is where things stand on Friday, February 13 :
Fighting
Russia launched a barrage of ballistic missiles and drones at Ukrainian cities in overnight attacks on Thursday, officials reported, as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Moscow was “hesitating” about another round of United States-brokered talks on stopping the war.
Russian forces launched 219 drones and 24 ballistic missiles on Thursday night, causing injuries, deaths and damage to energy infrastructure in Kyiv, Odesa and Dnipro, President Zelenskyy wrote on the Telegram messaging app.
Two people were killed and six more wounded in an attack on the railway hub of Lozova in the northeastern Kharkiv region bordering Russia, local prosecutors said.
Kyiv’s Mayor Vitali Klitschko said on Telegram that close to 2,600 high-rise apartment buildings were left without heating following the latest Russian attacks, particularly in the capital’s Desnyanskyi, Dniprovskyi, Pecherskyi and Solomyanskyi districts.
The attack on the capital came as 1,100 high-rise buildings in the Dniprovskyi and Darnytskyi districts were already “without heat after the previous shelling”, Klitschko said, as temperatures in Kyiv are forecast to fall as low as -13 degrees Celsius (8.6 degrees Fahrenheit) this week.
More than 220,000 people in Russia’s Belgorod region have been left without electricity after a Ukrainian attack caused an accident at a substation, regional governor Vyacheslav Gladkov said.
In Odesa, the State Emergency Service said that Russian drones hit a nine-storey residential building, an outdoor market and a supermarket, causing multiple fires to break out. The drone attack also damaged energy infrastructure, the emergency service added in a post on Facebook.
Ukraine’s General Staff said that, according to preliminary reports, Ukrainian forces hit an oil refinery in Ukhta in Russia’s Komi Republic, about 1,750km (1,087 miles) from the border with Ukraine, causing a fire to break out.
A Russian attack last month on the Ukrainian branch of the Soviet-built Druzhba oil pipeline halted the transit of Russian oil to eastern Europe, Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha said. Despite its war with Russia, Ukraine continues to transport Russian oil to Slovakia and Hungary even though it stopped the transit of Russian gas last year.
Ukraine said the bodies of two Nigerians fighting for Russia have been found in the east of the country. Hamzat Kazeem Kolawole and Mbah Stephen Udoka both served in the 423rd Guards Motor Rifle Regiment of the armed forces of the Russian Federation, according to a statement by Ukrainian intelligence.
Military aid
Ukraine’s allies have pledged about $35bn in military aid to Kyiv this year, British Defence Minister John Healey said. The figure includes new commitments by individual countries, but also previous promises of weapons made by Ukraine’s allies, including the 11.5 billion euros ($13.6bn) already announced by Germany, a diplomat told the Reuters news agency.
German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius said his country was ready to deliver five new PAC-3 interceptors for Ukraine’s air defence, provided Ukraine’s other allies deliver at least 30 more of their own.
Norway announced it was buying a “large volume” of French glide bombs as part of a bilateral agreement to support Ukraine militarily against Russia’s invasion.
The United Kingdom announced it will “urgently provide” air defence missiles and systems worth more than 500 million British pounds ($681m) “to protect Ukraine from [Russian President Vladimir] Putin’s brutal attacks on energy sites and homes”.
US military aid to Ukraine fell by 99 percent in 2025 compared with 2024, according to a report from the Kiel Institute for the World Economy, a think tank based in Germany. “European military aid rose by 67 percent above the 2022–2024 average” in 2025, the Kiel report found.
Peace talks
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said that another round of talks on ending the war in Ukraine was expected “soon” but gave no further details.
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Sybiha said that Russia’s more recent overnight attacks on Ukraine further undermined efforts to end the war through dialogue. “Each such strike is a blow to peace efforts aimed at ending the war. Russia must be forced to take diplomacy seriously and de-escalate,” Sybiha wrote on X.
Regional security
Estonia is to buy 12 more Caesar self-propelled howitzer artillery pieces from France to strengthen its defence capabilities.
European Union leaders broadly agreed Thursday on a plan to restructure the 27-nation bloc’s economy to make it more competitive as they face antagonism from US President Donald Trump, strong-arm tactics from China and hybrid threats blamed on Russia.
Ukraine will begin exporting weapons, including drones, in the coming weeks, Ukrainian Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov said in a news conference, according to Ukraine’s Ukrinform news agency.
Energy
Power plants in Ukraine that have been damaged by Russian missile and drone attacks continue to produce far too little electricity to supply the country’s citizens, Ukraine’s Energy Minister Denys Shmyhal told a parliamentary energy committee.
Politics and diplomacy
French President Emmanuel Macron said there was no rush to open dialogue with Russian leader Putin, stressing the need for Europeans to fine-tune their objectives. Macron raised the prospect of reviving dialogue with Putin in an interview published on Tuesday by several newspapers.
Six more Russian and Ukrainian children are being reunited with their families, Washington and Moscow said. One child would return to Russia, and five children would be reunited with their families in Ukraine, Russia’s presidential commissioner for children’s rights, Maria Lvova-Belova, said in a post on Telegram.
Ukraine has accused Russia of abducting thousands of children, and the International Criminal Court has called for the arrest of President Putin and Lvova-Belova on suspicion of unlawful deportation of children.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said he would have a chance to meet Zelenskyy at this week’s Munich Security Conference.
Sport
Ukrainian athlete Vladyslav Heraskevych has lodged an appeal with the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) after he was barred from competing in the Milano Cortina Winter Olympics. The skeleton racer was banned over a dispute concerning a helmet he wanted to wear in the event to honour Ukrainian athletes killed in the war with Russia.
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) said in a statement: “[The decision] was taken by the jury of the International Bobsleigh and Skeleton Federation (IBSF) based on the fact that the helmet he intended to wear was not compliant with the rules.”
Zelenskyy reacted to the decision, accusing the IOC of playing “into the hands of aggressors” as Ukraine’s Sport Minister Matviy Bidnyi said Ukraine would go through legal channels to reverse the decision.
“We are proud of Vladyslav and of what he did. Having courage is worth more than any medal,” Zelenskyy said.
Weekly insights and analysis on the latest developments in military technology, strategy, and foreign policy.
The Pentagon, which buys and sells hundreds of billions of dollars worth of weapons every year, is changing how it conducts business. And this time, such a claim being made does seem different than many false starts in the past. The changes come amid a backdrop of growing threats and depleted arsenals, which have magnified the chronic issues of delays and cost overruns for a lot of military hardware, and long waiting lists for foreign customers.
The War Department’s revamping of how it procures and transfers weapons follows executive orders signed by President Donald Trump, who has frequently expressed his displeasure with the defense industry’s long timetables and lack of risk taking without the department footing the bill.
BREAKING: President Trump says executives of US defense contractors will no longer be allowed to make more than $5 million unless they build “new and modern production plants.”
Trump also says he is banning dividends and stock buybacks for defense companies until these problems… pic.twitter.com/0pDiWBZbXz
In January, Trump imposed new restrictions on executive compensation and threatened to cancel contracts with RTX [Raytheon] if it did not step up and invest in “plants and equipment.”
“I have been informed by the Department of War that Defense Contractor, Raytheon, has been the least responsive to the needs of the Department of War, the slowest in increasing their volume, and the most aggressive spending on their Shareholders rather than the needs and demands of the United States Military,” Trump said in a separate post on Truth Social.
U.S. President Donald J. Trump states that Raytheon will no longer be doing business with the Department of Defense if they don’t start “investing in more upfront Investments like Plants and Equipment,” claiming that the defense contractors has been “the least responsive to the… pic.twitter.com/iV9KAtscF9
Earlier this month, Trump instituted the “America First Arms Transfer Strategy” aimed at ensuring “that future arms sales prioritize American interests by using foreign purchases and capital to build American production and capacity.”
Acting on the first of these executive orders, the Pentagon last week “warned defense contractors to brace for sweeping performance reviews that will identify companies it says aren’t fulfilling their contracts,” The Wall Street Journal reported, citing a message sent to the defense industry.
“We have completed initial reviews to assess company performance as part of this executive order and will now undergo an extended period of review in which we will make noncompliance determinations,” Michael Duffey, the undersecretary of defense in charge of weapons buying, wrote in a Feb. 6 email to executives reviewed by the publication. “Following the upcoming decision period, we will be in touch with identified companies to begin remediation plans.”
NEW: The Pentagon has warned defense contractors to brace for sweeping performance reviews that will identify companies it says aren’t fulfilling their contracts, according to a message sent to the industry late last week. W @MarcusReportshttps://t.co/tdYuehP72W
Since the executive order was announced, defense companies “have been walking a tightrope trying to satisfy both Trump and their shareholders,” the Journal added. “During quarterly earnings calls late last month, executives from RTX, General Dynamics and other contractors boasted about billions of dollars in capital investments their companies have made to expand weapons manufacturing and defended dividend payouts.”
RTX is boosting production of the Patriot Advanced Capability-3 Missile Segment Enhancement (PAC-3 MSE) missiles. (Lockheed Martin photo) The Pentagon declined to say if it will provide Ukraine with the more advanced Patriot Advanced Capability-3 Missile Segment Enhancement missiles. (Lockheed Martin photo)
When it comes to selling materiel to foreign customers, Secretary Pete Hegseth on Tuesday announced he was merging two Pentagon agencies into one to speed up deliveries while bolstering American arms makers.
“Everybody wanted weapons, but we couldn’t get them to them fast enough,” Hegseth said in a video posted on X. “And today, as a demonstration of our progress on these issues, I’m proud to share that we’ve completed the realignment of the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DCSA) and the Defense Technology Security Administration (DTSA) within our Acquisition and Sustainment (A&S) team.”
DCSA is largely responsible for facilitating the sale of U.S. weapons to partners and allies. It is also tasked with developing and planning the long-term partnerships and training opportunities that accompany those sales. DTSA identifies and mitigates risks associated with transferring technology to partners and allies.
Foreign Military Sales 101
“This realignment has created a single, coherent defense sales enterprise within the department, one that moves at the speed of war, but with the purpose of deterring aggression,” Duffey said in the X video. “Coupled with this new executive order, we’re now positioned to leverage the total aggregated global demand for U.S. weapons.”
The goal, Duffey added, is “to grow our nation’s industrial might, while maintaining the American warfighters’ technological edge” and “we’ll proactively target sales that unlock foreign investment to help power critical production lines, fueling companies to invest in new manufacturing plants, hire more engineers and create thousands of well-paying American jobs, all while better equipping our partners to share the burden of our their own conventional defense.”
Driven by President Trump’s groundbreaking America First Arms Transfer Strategy, we’re leveraging record-breaking U.S. defense sales to revitalize our industrial base.
Wars in Ukraine and the Middle East have placed tremendous pressure on the U.S. defense industry, which is struggling badly to keep up with the demands for both domestic and foreign customers. These wars have consumed large amounts of stockpiled weapons. Many of these munitions take years to produce, a problem exacerbated by global supply chain and procurement decisions. Those worries are exacerbated by China’s increasing belligerence and Russia’s resurgence, which has spurred a massive demand for weapons from foreign customers. An already lugubrious situation will only become exponentially worse should Washington and Beijing tangle kinetically. This would consume advanced munitions and other materiel at an extreme rate.
Amid all these challenges, the pressure is rising on the U.S. defense industry to step up its game even as it suffers ongoing cost overruns and delays. The Pentagon wants to put more of the cost-sharing burden on them to drastically increase production rates. Meanwhile, large prime contractors like Lockheed Martin, Boeing, Northrop Grumman and others are facing competition from startups like Anduril who are investing hundreds of millions of dollars in weapons development and infrastructure costs, as well as wholly self-funding development of some systems.
This is also manifesting in the Pentagon moving away from a weapon system’s original manufacturer ‘owning’ the program for its lifecycle. This situation, referred to as ‘vendor lock’ makes it impossible to compete sustainment and major upgrade contracts, for instance. Instead, the Pentagon will own the rights to the system and be able to have other companies bid on various aspects of its sustainment and upgrade throughout its service life.
“We will enable third-party integration without prime contractor bottlenecks. Success will be measured by the ability of qualified vendors to independently develop, test and integrate replaceable — excuse me, replacement modules at the component level throughout the system life cycle,” Hegseth said in November. “There’s no more complacency and no more monopolies.”
Still, though Trump and the Pentagon have taken aim at defense contractors, the War Secretary said many of these problems are also at least partially self-inflicted.
“We look at ourselves first, the way we do business,” he said in an interview following his visit to the Bath Iron Works in Maine. “We’ve been impossible to deal with – a bad customer who…year after year, changes our mind about what we want or what we don’t want, and then we make little, small technological changes, which makes it more difficult for them to produce what they need to produce on time.”
“So we have to fix our own house first, provide clarity, simplify the system, allow more people to access it [and] give that steady demand signal…”
NEW: Hegseth tells me the real reason why there are massive production delays in the defense industry: “A lot of the hang up has been us.”
The buying and selling of weapons is one of the greatest drivers of the U.S. economy and a critical factor in national security. Changing how the Pentagon conducts its business is a huge and fraught endeavor. How it could reshape the military industrial complex, if it succeeds at all, is yet to be fully understood. As is what exactly will happen to companies that end up on the administration’s ‘naughty’ contractor list.
