Longtail

THE Nineties might have been ruled by boybands and girl-bands, but life at the top of pop could be tough.

And it was probably worse for the girls, as putting on extra pounds, dating the wrong guy or, heaven forbid, having a baby were hugely frowned upon by management teams.

New BBC documentary Girlbands Forever, the follow-up to last year’s three-parter about boybands, delves into an era where record companies had less regard for duty of care, days off or mental health.

It features members of Atomic Kitten, Eternal, Sugababes, Mis-teeq and Little Mix, providing insight into what it was like being in an all-female group in the Nineties and early Noughties.

The dream was to replicate the success of the Spice Girls, the all-conquering icons who sparked the girlband explosion.

And record labels invested millions in a bid to find the next big thing.

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But as the Spice Girls’ rivals All Saints found out, the pressure became unbearable.

So much so that when founding member Melanie Blatt informed managers that she and bandmate Nicole Appleton were pregnant, both were told to abort their babies.

The reason? They had just cracked America with No1 hit Never Ever and momentum could be lost.

Melanie, 50, explains: “I hadn’t been with my partner for very long, it was definitely a bit of a surprise It wasn’t people congratulating us. It was more like this look of dread and worry and the realisation that things are going to change.

“We flew to LA and at [airport] LAX our manager, he was behind us, was telling us to abort our babies.”

She added that her bosses told them they were “going to ruin everything” and “it was the end of the band”.

Melanie ended up having her baby with her partner, Stuart Zender, the bassist for band Jamiroquai.

‘Vomiting in toilets’

But Nicole, who fell pregnant with then boyfriend Robbie Williams, did not, which Melanie admits caused issues with their relationship.

She explains: “Nic and I had been best friends since we were 11. We took pregnancy tests in a hotel in Canada and spent that whole night discussing bringing our kids up together. It was one of the best nights ever.

“And it’s not really my place to talk about it, but unfortunately . . . it was a very uncomfortable situation because I kept mine, she didn’t. That was a really tricky part of my and our existence.”

All Saints, which consisted of Melanie, sisters Nicole and Natalie and main songwriter Shaznay Lewis, were always deemed a “cool version” of the Spice Girls and were far more rock ‘n’ roll.

Whereas Victoria Beckham, Emma Bunton and Mel B found love with a footballer, an R&B singer and a dancer respectively, the All Saints girls dated rock stars, with Nicole marrying and having a son with Liam Gallagher.

Melanie says: “We were turning up to kids’ TV shows on a Saturday morning without having one wink of sleep. We looked fine, just a bit of vomiting in the toilets prior to CD:UK.”

After two albums, All Saints split in 2001, a disparity in earnings between Shaznay and the rest of the band being a major factor.

By the end of their existence as a group, Melanie says they “hated each other”.

She adds: “We’d fallen out, it was hell, it was ‘separate’ everything.

“It was just ridiculous but literally one of the proudest moments of being in that band was calling it quits because we didn’t stay for the money. We wanted to be done, we didn’t want to be with each other any more and we made that decision.

“We were in control. We were supposed to go on tour and we gave the money back and I’m so proud of that. That’s one of the only decisions we were all happy to make together, telling each other to f*** off.”

• Girlbands Forever begins on Saturday at 9.20pm on BBC Two.

Little Mix

AS girlbands moved into the 2010s, life did not get any easier, with social media now to contend with.

With Little Mix, Perrie Edwards, 32, bore the brunt of the online abuse due to her relationship with One Direction heart-throb Zayn Malik.

She explains: “Social media was dark, especially back in the day.

“Me and the girls used to get a lot of stick. Things we would wear or how we would look, people would pick us apart.

“You’re hurting enough as it is, never mind everybody having an opinion on it. Everyone wants to know your business and everyone feels like they have ownership in that.

“You can’t escape it. So you may as well sing about it.”

Life in girlbands was relentless, so Little Mix lasting ten years was a monumental achievement.

But Perrie, below, admits she almost quit when she was at her lowest ebb ahead of a gig in Las Vegas.

She says: “I didn’t want to go, I was so exhausted. I tried getting out of the trip and when I got there, I started experiencing panic attacks.

“I didn’t know what was happening at the time, I’d never experienced a panic attack.

“I ended up in a hospital. I didn’t want to let the girls down. They had to do it without me and I hated it and I really resented myself for it.”

She adds: “When you’re in a group dynamic, even though you’re going through stuff individually, you can’t just be selfish so I kind of put a brave face on a lot of time.

“I didn’t want to let the team down.”

Eternal

ETERNAL had a No1 smash hit with I Wanna Be The Only One in 1997, but their looks soon became a concern.

Founding member Kelle Bryan, 50, reveals: “People were always voicing concerns about my weight and about our weight as a band. Stylists would come along and say, ‘This doesn’t fit you, this doesn’t fit you’.

“We’re talking about an era where being a size zero was popular, so they sent us away to this place in the countryside where they were able to control what we ate.”

Atomic Kitten

WHILE on the 1999 Smash Hits Tour, Atomic Kitten’s Kerry Katona fell for Westlife singer Brian McFadden, but was ordered not to date him by management.

Kerry, 45, says: “They all went absolutely f*ing apes**t. I remember [Westlife manager] Louis Walsh saying, ‘I don’t like you, you’re trouble’.

Bandmate and best pal Natasha Hamilton, 43, adds: “It was definitely bad for the brand. Not from my point of view but from the label and management. They said girls can’t be seen with one of the boys in the biggest boyband in the UK because fan jealousy is a thing.”

Mis-Teeq

BEING an all-black group who rose up from the “underground scene” in 1999, Mis-Teeq felt they were discriminated against and given fewer opportunities.

Su-Elise Nash, 44, says: “We weren’t invited to the same premieres. Some magazines wouldn’t consider us for the cover because they didn’t think three black girls would sell.

“Our struggle to get there was definitely not as easy as it would have been if we had one white member or we’d all-white.”

Sugababes

WHEN Sugababes founding member Mutya Buena gave birth to her first child aged 19 – while the band were working on their fourth album – there was no let-up.

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Mutya, now 40, quit the group that same year in 2005 and was later diagnosed with post-natal depression.

Record label exec Darcus Beese says: “I remember standing in my kitchen trying to talk her down. I had no concept of post-natal depression. I would ask questions now like, ‘How’s your mental health?’.”

HE’S got some time on his hands after pushing back the release of new album Britpop until February.

And after announcing he was planning on opening a luxury hotel in Dubai, Robbie Williams is now working on another madcap idea.

“I want to open a University of Entertainment,” Robbie, right, revealed. “I did notice nobody else is doing it.”

He said of the inspiration behind his dream school: “I grew up as a vaudevillian. That’s what I am. I am cabaret.

“I spent all of my youth watching my dad do cabaret and watching all of the acts that he would bring off and on stage — and how talented and hard-working they were, and how genuinely funny the funny acts were, and how genuinely amazing the vocalists were.”

Robbie, who left Take That in 1995 before launching his hugely successful solo career, added: “I arrived in 1995, after Take That, I want to be Oasis.

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“I want to be Radiohead. Then, when I opened my mouth and my mind, I came out instead and I’m not cool. And you go, ‘OK, so what am I? Oh, I’m all of these people that I loved — Tommy Cooper, The Two Ronnies and Morecambe and Wise.

‘In a different place’

“The way they made me feel is how I want to make people feel.”

Robbie will be back on stage next year, kicking off a mini-tour in Glasgow on February 4, before playing three more intimate shows in Liverpool, London and Wolverhampton.

And until then, he said he’s going to be busy working on his new plans.

He told the Heretics podcast: “I’ve got so many fingers in so many pies, giving me so much to peruse. My ambition and my want and my need and my desire has not abated. But the oxygen I once had in my career, where I couldn’t miss every time I went to the table, has been taken away from me just because I’m an older pop star now.

“The rise was a long time ago, 1990 till, say, 2010.

“It’s only different as it’s different for everyone else lucky enough to have had my kind of career. I was the most played artist for ten years in a row.

“And, you know, thank you. I’ve had a nice run, but I’m in a different place now.

“And it’s not over. Where does all of that naked ambition and drive go?

“It goes into purpose. It goes into creating.”

If it ever gets off the ground, I’ll make sure to sign up for a night class.

Good friendships in the Mix

THEY may no longer be making music together, but Little Mix are still best of pals.

Pregnant Perrie Edwards and Leigh-Anne Pinnock were backstage at the Roundhouse in Camden to support Jade Thirlwall at her gig.

Leigh-Anne shared this sweet snap of them together, and one of my mates spotted them dancing and singing along to Angel Of My Dreams.

Jade, whose debut album, That’s Showbiz Baby, peaked at No3 when it came out last month, is now preparing to head Stateside in the New Year.

Let’s hope she can do what Little Mix couldn’t and crack America.

Jade kicks off a run of 14 shows in San Diego on January 30.

Fergie up fur reunion

IT looks like Fergie can’t decide if she’s too hot or too cold.

The Black Eyed Peas singer teamed this crop-top with a faux fur jacket as she performed at One Musicfest in Atlanta, Georgia.

The I Gotta Feeling singer wowed fans at the event in Piedmont Park, belting out some of her biggest hits including amazing 2006 single London Bridge.

Earlier this year, I revealed that Fergie had created a whole new music video for the track in the capital as part of Lena Dunham’s Netflix series, Too Much.

Fergie left the Black Eyed Peas in 2018, but I told you this summer that discussions are under way about a possible reunion with her bandmates Will.i.am, APL.DE.AP and Taboo.

I’d love to see this happen.

Jovi’s got the Midas Tuchel

I TRIED my hardest to make Jon Bon Jovi a Spurs fan when I hung out with him last week, but his legendary PR Alan Edwards – a die-hard Gooner – persuaded him to follow the reds.

Jon was obviously something of a lucky charm as Arsenal managed a 1-0 win over Crystal Palace on Sunday.

He later hung out with England boss Thomas Tuchel and Jason Sudeikis.

It was Jon’s first Premier League game and I bet my last quid it’ll be his last given how rubbish Arsenal are.

You should have watched Spurs instead, Jon.

We battered Everton 3-0.

Is Geri in a bad Spice?

THE Spice Girls were all smiles at the launch of Victoria Beckham’s Netflix documentary this month.

But insiders say those grins were more like grimaces once the cameras were off – and the finger of blame is being pointed at Geri Horner.

A well-placed mole told me that while Mel C and Emma Bunton were together on row D, Geri was placed in a different area with her husband Christian Horner.

And the apparent snub is now the talk of the town.

Our source explained: “All people are still talking about what happened with Geri that night.

“She was seated away from Mel C and Emma, which seems weird given they were there to support Victoria. Inside the party she only seemed to talk to Victoria, too. It all felt rather frosty. No one has seen a photo of the four of them together either.”

Something is definitely up.

Last November, I revealed how Geri was dragging her heels over a new Netflix band biopic.

And last week, The Sun reported the band – completed by Mel B – were planning on implementing a “rule of four”, to allow the show to go ahead even if Geri wasn’t on board.

A telly insider said: “Geri has been dragging her heels for almost a year now and the rest are keen to plough ahead, as next year marks the 30th anniversary of first single Wannabe.”

Get it together, Ginger.

Cops get Raye on track

RAYE has revealed the police have found her stolen car – with her songwriting books on the backseat.

The Where Is My Husband! singer was forced to push back her second album after the thieves nicked her motor last year.

But now Raye is busy putting the finishing touches to the record after getting them back.

Appearing on Global’s Big Top 40, Raye, right, said: “It was a rollercoaster journey but what I didn’t tell people is that the police called me two or three months ago and said, ‘We’ve found your car.’

“Not only did they get it back but not one thing had been taken out of the car.

“All my songwriting books were there untouched.

“There was so much important stuff in there and when I was flicking through it I was like, ‘Thank God this has been returned to me’.”

Mark: I still get nervous

MARK RONSON has a load of hits to his name but has admitted he still questions if he’s any good every time he gets into the studio.

On Radio 2’s Tracks Of My Years, which airs all this week on Vernon Kay’s morning show, Mark said: “Every time I get into the studio with somebody for the first time, or even if it’s someone like Dua Lipa, or someone I’ve worked with a lot, it’s that combination of like, before the first day of school meets a blind date, meets every insecurity.

“Am I going to think of an idea? Am I going to be able to deliver?

“I still have that and I know people might be like, ‘That’s ridiculous, you’re good, don’t worry about it’.

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“But I think it’s served me well in my career because it’s always made me work extra hard.

“I wouldn’t know what to do if I fully lost that.”

WHEN it comes to daytrips, you should ditch the classic Oxford, Cambridge and London for this city in the West Midlands.

You definitely won’t be bored with artist trails, award-winning museums and a huge waterpark with one of the country’s biggest wave pools to explore.

Often dubbed as an ‘underrated’ city, by the likes of TimeOut, Coventry is putting itself on the map, especially when it comes to weekend breaks.

The city is experiencing a huge boost with tourism reaching record levels; last year, it saw a total of 11.8 million visitors – up 3.6 per cent from 2023.

Overnight stays increased by 14 per cent, and day trips made up 88 per cent of all trips to the city.

To be fair, it’s not really a secret that Coventry is making a name for itself as being a great place to explore, two years ago, Coventry made the list of the 100 best cities in Europe.

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And in 2021, Coventry was also honoured with the title of UK City of Culture.

Coventry has a blend of everything from historical sites, like Coventry Cathedral to St Mary’s Guildhall, known for its connection to Mary Queen of Scots.

But there are plenty of modern touches, like its art trail which heads along the canal for five and a half miles where you’ll find over 30 sculptures, mosaics and murals.

At the local theatre, Belgrade, you can watch a show from Friends! The Musical Parody, to talks by the likes of Sandi Toksvig, there are also screenings and family performances.

The Wave in Coventry is an enormous indoor waterpark with one of the biggest wave pools in the country.

Not only that, but it has six water slides, one being The Crestar, which has two giant spheres with lighting effects.

The Cascade is another ride at the waterpark, as is The Torrent, which is arguably the scariest ride because the floor drops from beneath to plunge riders at speed.

The Rapids, which has been described as the “Big Dipper on water”, is the park’s water coaster, where powerful jets hurl riders uphill before dropping them down through tight corners and tunnels.

Another ride is called The Cyclone, which is one of the fastest slides at the waterpark.

There are other attractions at the waterpark too, including The Reef, which is a splash zone.

Standard tickets during peak times are £18.70 (for adults ages 12 and over), for juniors (ages 11 and under) tickets are £14.

As for some of the other top-rated things to do in Coventry, heading to its two museums, one of which was the UK’s best-rated on Tripadvisor.

This museum in question is The Coventry Music Museum, which earlier this year was the top-rated on Tripadvisor – and it’s the number one thing to do in Coventry.

Found on Walsgrave Road in Coventry, the museum has an art gallery, music records archive and an interactive media studio telling the history of local music.

The museum is also home to the entire output of 2 Tone Records – a record label that opened in Coventry in 1979. They signed the likes of the Selector, Madness and The Beat.

Entry fees are £6 for adults and £3 for concessions – make sure to bring notes and change as it’s cash only.

Another popular museum is the Coventry Transport Museum, which houses the largest publicly owned collection of British vehicles in the world.

It has interactive galleries, immersive exhibitions, and of course, lots of vehicles to look at from vintage cars to motorbikes.

Entry to the museum is £15pp.

As for where to eat, Coventry has some great finds, VisitEngland recommends trying East Korean barbecue at Jinseon Korean BBQ where you can grill your own food on a charcoal fire at your table.

Another suggestion is Cogs Bar and Kitchen which offer up tasty breakfasts from eggs benedict to American-style pancakes.

FarGo Village is also worth exploring, it’s an industrial space home to coffee shops and even a microbrewery.

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One writer reveals what his stay at the Coombe Abbey Hotel was like…

Read on to hear what one writer made of this historic hotel…

Where is the Coombe Abbey Hotel?

On 500 acres of renowned beauty, this historic hotel is in Coventry situated in Coombe Abbey’s Country Park, just off the M6.

What is it like?

Next time somebody wants to send you to Coventry, stay at this complex, which dates back to 1150 and has links to royalty, the dissolution of the monasteries under Henry VIII and the Gunpowder plot. Enjoy a view of the moat, the lake and the courtyard to the Capability Brown designed gardens, depending on where you are in the hotel.

What is there to do at the hotel?

The corridors and communal rooms are packed with artefacts, art, history and heritage, that are well worth exploring as you wander from bar to room to restaurant, while the scenic lake, gardens and grounds are perfect for a stroll. 

Enjoy one of the many choices of afternoon tea, from Abbot’s Afternoon Tea to Sparkling Afternoon Tea as a post-walk treat. For kids, you can discover Go Ape in the woodlands.

What is there to eat and drink?

Unless you want to drive, you’d better eat here as it’s about a ten-minute walk to the edge of the grounds and some way beyond that to any restaurants. That being said, you really do want to eat here. The ambience is classy, the food is great, and the breakfast really sets you up for the day.

The dinner menu features meaty dishes of beef shin with fondant potato and confit duck leg with spiced braised cabbage, as well as vegan, vegetarian and fish options.

What are the rooms like?

The minimum standard in basic rooms is real quality and comfort, while the decor and design in the feature heritage rooms are charming and characterful. Rooms start from £149 a night based on two sharing.

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IT’S time to get cozy, with autumn bringing colder weather across the UK.

And one of the best places to escape it is heading straight to the pub for a roast dinner and roaring fire.

We’ve rounded up some of the best across Kent, one of the most popular counties in the UK for a staycation.

From quant historic inns to seafront pubs – here are 17 of the favourites, according to locals.

Rose in June, Margate

Living in Margate for nearly two years, this was where you would find me most Saturday nights.

I rarely left the pub without making new friends, and it was always more locals than tourists, being nearer the quieter end of Margate and the popular Cliftonville area.

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They usually have a rolling change of food being served by a pop up, currently having the delicious Hays Burgers.

Visit in winter and they usually have a delicious mulled cider too.

Old Neptune, Whitstable

Whitstable’s Old Neptune attracts most of the crowds, due to it’s beer garden being on the beach.

But when the weather turns, it still makes for one of the most dramatic views.

Just be ready to squeeze in, as it isn’t the biggest.

Or you can brave the cold and perch on the bench with your pint.

Tiger Inn, Stowting

The Tiger Inn isn’t one you would easily stumble upon, being down some very windy country roads.

And make sure to book ahead – the crammed in tables are cosy but often full and you might not want to brave the pub garden when its cold.

The pub has some of the friendliest staff, as well as a cracking roast dinner.

The Ship Inn, Sandgate

Sandgate is a much quieter option than Folkestone, and one of the best pubs is The Ship Inn.

It looks out over the beach if you manage to grab a table at the back, as well as having an extended area at the top.

Make sure to get the crab roll at lunch although it has a full menu and some delicious local wines on tap.

Or visit on a Thursday for their very fun pub quiz!

The Harbour Inn, Folkestone

If you’re looking for some fresh fish, you can’t get much fresher than The Harbour Inn at Folkestone.

Lots of the dishes are made from anything pulled in by the local trawlers.

It is also connected to the boutique London & Paris hotel, if you need somewhere to stay after one too many.

George & Heart, Margate

The Margate pub has some great history – it’s in a Grade II listed former coaching inn in the Old Town dating back to the 1700s.

The menu is always changing, as they use local produce so it is whatever they have that is fresh.

Along with great pints, it now has a boutique hotel on the top floor.

There is even the ‘Zen Den’ treatment room for some extra wellness.

The Old Buoy, Folkestone

You’ll have to battle for a seat at The Old Buoy, with a just a few tables inside.

But its where you will spot all the locals in the evening, along with extremely friendly bar staff (make sure to try the pizza while there too).

King’s Head, Deal

The Sunday Roast is one of the most unique with a Caribbean twist, complete with jerk-roasted chicken and spicy mash.

You might find you are joined by the local rugby or football club after their match but that just adds to the atmosphere.

You can also stay at the pub as well – there are 14 en-suite rooms just above.

Tickled Trout, Wye

While the Tickled Trout is best visited in the summer due to its riverfront location, it also makes a great spot in Autumn.

The food menu has enough to keep everyone from your dad to the kids happy as well.

New Flying Horse, Wye

Bundle the kids up if they are getting rowdy and send them to the outdoor garden, with food gardens and play house to explore.

It might look retro inside, but the very friendly staff make up for it.

Woolpack Inn, Warehourne

I stumbled upon this pub during a wine tour of Kent, with Warehorne known for its red and white wines.

Not only is the pub cosy and dog-friendly but you can take the kids to see all the grazing sheep outside.

It even has rooms above the pub in case you need somewhere to crash afterwards.

Victoria Pavilion, Ramsgate

You’ be remiss to head to Ramsgate and not visit the Victoria Pavilion, called the world’s largest Wetherspoons.

It has some of the best views in the house, overlooking the beach, and you know you’ll always find a table.

And with Wetherspoons offering some of cheapest pints in the country, it won’t break the bank either.

Fordwich Arms, Canterbury

The Fordwich Arms is one of the fanciest pubs on the list, being Michelin-starred.

But its worth it as a special occasion pub, with five-course tasting menu some of the best food I’ve ever eaten (even down to the fresh bread and whipped butter).

Captain Digby, Broadstairs

You’d be forgiven for not knowing about the Captain Digby, as it’s slightly off the beaten track.

The pub overlooks Kingsgate Bay – a quiet beach loved by locals and away from the crowds, thanks to having no nearby train station.

But when the weather gets too much, walk up the very steep steps for a nice glass of wine at the pub.

Tudor Rose, Sittingbourne

Forget Toby’s – the Tudor Rose pub in Sittingbourne is home to my absolute favourite carveries.

Less than £20 for two courses is a steal – and the roast potatoes are mighty good too.

Three Daws, Gravesend

Old, rickety and quaint are how I’d describe the Three Daws, a cosy spot for a quiet pint in Gravesend which dates back to the 1400s.

It’s right along the River Thames where I’ve spent many an afternoon watching the world pass by along the river.

All while while tucking into one of the best value pub roasts I’ve found in the region.

The Greedy Banker, Rainham

If you’re looking for a decent beer, burger and screens of sport look no further than The Greedy Banker which runs special events throughout the year.

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There’s over a hundred choices of beer and cider to choose from, as well as spirits and wines.

Here are our 35 top pubs in London as well.

BRITAIN has just opened a brand-new train station in a 100-year first – marking a major milestone for rail travel in the UK.

Beaulieu Park Station saw its first passengers roll out at 7:20am on Sunday morning – marking the first new stop on Essex’s main rail line.

The shiny new £175million station, operated by Greater Anglia, welcomed the Colchester 6.56am train to London Liverpool Street, pulling in at 8.12am.

The long-awaited stop promises to slash journey times, with commuters reaching the capital in just 40 minutes.

It was funded by a £175million pot, including £141million from the Government’s Housing Infrastructure Fund, £12million from the South-East Local Enterprise Partnership and £22million from developers Countryside (now part of Vistry) and L&Q.

The station is set to ease pressure on Chelmsford’s busy main station and cut car trips into the city centre.

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Part of the new Beaulieu and Channels neighbourhoods, the state-of-the-art hub will boost access to jobs, drive investment and fuel growth in the north of Chelmsford.

The new Beaulieu Parkway relief road links directly to the station from the A12, and a future North-East bypass will connect travellers from Braintree and surrounding villages.

Features and amenities

The new Beaulieu Park Station comes packed with modern features designed to make travel smoother for everyone.

There’s step-free access to all platforms via two lifts, alongside ticket vending machines, a staffed gate line and fully accessible toilets with baby changing facilities.

Passengers can also take advantage of a comfortable waiting area and space for retail or catering outlets.

For drivers, there’s parking for 705 vehicles spread across two car parks – including 38 free Blue Badge bays, 10 electric vehicle charging points, and dedicated areas for staff, emergency services and motorcycles.

Public transport links have also been upgraded, with local bus routes C11, C9, C8 and 73 now stopping directly at the station.

A handy pick-up and drop-off zone includes dedicated taxi bays, while the transport interchange offers bus stands for local services.

Cyclists haven’t been forgotten either – there are 500 spaces for free covered bike storage and paid secure storage options too.

To top it off, local walking and cycling routes have been improved, with several new paths created to make the station more accessible to nearby communities.

Ticket prices

An off-peak day return from Beaulieu Park Station to London Liverpool Street is priced at £28.20, while seven-day season tickets will cost £134.60.

A day return to London Liverpool Street during peak hours will cost travellers £42.60.

For those travelling to and from Stratford, the costs are £22.60 for an off-peak ticket, £19.70 for a standard day single and £35.30 for a standard day return.

The new service will also service Southend Airport, with tickets costing £16.90 for a standard day single, £24.10 for a standard day return, and £21.30 for a child day return. 

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Residents of other cities such as Ipswich and Norwich will also benefit from Beaulieu Park Station.

The full list of fares and services is available from operator Greater Anglia.

There’s a new train operator in town

They hope to challenge Eurostar with trips across the Channel…

A brand-new train operator is hoping to launch services between the UK and Europe, offering ‘competitive fares’ for passengers.

Currently, Eurostar is the only rail operator that connects the UK to destinations across Europe, including cities in France, Belgium and the Netherlands.

This could all change as a new train operating company, Gemini,has announced its plans to launch services between the UK and Europe.

The new train operator, which is currently being established, hopes to begin its rail journey by launching services from London to Paris and Brussels.

Once services between London and Paris/Brussels have launched, Gemini hopes to further its list of European destinations.

The new rail operator plans to introduce ‘new cutting-edge trains and a fresh approach to sales and ticketing’ on services between the UK and Europe.

IRIS Law had her assistants running across New York to find her favourite treats ahead of the Victoria’s Secret show, it’s been reported.

The 25-year-old daughter of actor Jude Law and film producer Sadie Frost, made her debut as an Angel during the return of the world famous runway show in October.

This year’s Victoria’s Secret show was full of famous faces including fellow nepo babies, Bella and Gigi Hadid, and Lila Moss.

But it was reported that Iris had plenty of demands as she prepared to walk the runway.

Iris is said to have sent her team of assistants looking for cookies from a particular bakery and then smoothies from another place in New York, according to Daily Mail.

The Victoria’s Secret catwalk show made a stunning return earlier this month and was full of A-list models including, Alessandra Ambrosio, Jasmine Tookes, Angel Reese,  Barbie Ferreira,  Ashley Graham, Irina Shayk and Emily Ratajkowski.

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Born Iris Tallulah Elizabeth Law on October 25, 2000, the rising star is a British fashion model and actress.

She burst onto the modelling scene when she was in her teens and has been booked by some of the biggest fashion houses in the world.

Iris has previously posed for Christian Dior, Calvin Klein, and Versace.

She has also started to forge a career in the movies and follow in her famous parents’ footsteps.

Iris previous dated England footballer Trent Alexander-Arnold.

The whirlwind romance between Trent and Iris hit the rocks last year.

Before then pictures of Trent and Iris in the Caribbean in July showed them looking like a perfect couple after meeting on a photoshoot with Guess Jeans only five months prior.

Her dad, Jude has seven different children with four different women.

His other kids are named Raff, 27, Rudy, 21, Sophia, 14 and Ada, eight.

Jude and his current wife Phillipa Coan, whom he married in 2019, have reportedly had two children, one in 2020 and one in 2023.

TODAY is the day, the clocks have changed and while Brits get an extra hour of sleep, it’s going to get darker in the UK.

The clocks in the UK have gone back by one hour marking the end of British Summer Time – but to ditch the winter blues, head to these destinations in the UK which are some of the sunniest in the country.

Isle of Wight

The Isle of Wight gets around 42 per cent more sunshine in winter than the rest of the country – and even on the shortest day of the year still gets seven hours and 50 minutes of sun.

So if you want to lap up as much sun as possible, head down to England‘s largest island that one writer said is like ‘going back in time’.

The Sun’s Veronica Lorraine recently visited the island with her family, she said: “From the moment we stepped off that Wightlink ferry, I was taken back to my Eighties family holidays — where the island was a magical place for a nine-year-old obsessed with sandcastles and crabbing off the pier.

“We visited Shanklin village which has a shop selling rock, foodie spots dishing out doughnuts and slushies and loads of pubs, all perched above miles of beautiful sandy beach.

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“When you’re feeling peckish, head to one of my favourite pubs on the island, the Spy Glass Inn. Right on sheltered, sandy Ventnor beach, it’s crammed full of pirates’ nicknacks and often has live music.”

Folkestone, Kent

The town of Folkestone in Kent is another one of the UK’s sunniest spots thanks to its position on the southeast coast.

And it happens to be the seaside town that Deputy Travel Editor Kara Godfrey hails from, so when you head over there, check out her favourite spots.

She said: “Folkestone is having a moment, taking its time but growing in the form of new hotels and cool bars.

“Discover Mermaid Bay, the beach just out of town and named due to the rock formation mimicking a mermaid’s tail.

“The bay is found within the main beach of Folkestone, which ends at the Harbour Arm.

“This is where you will find the huge stretch of bars and cafes, as well as kids playground and crazy golf. Obviously the beaches are the main attractions but the multicoloured Creative Quarter can’t be missed.”

Kara continued: “You won’t see any chain stores here – the cobble-stone hill is lined with quaint cafes, curated vintage shops and locally run stores selling vinyls, kids toys and souvenirs.”

For more attractions, indoor activities and where to enjoy some great food, read more on Kara’s top recommendations here.

Bognor Regis, West Sussex

Bognor Regis is another sunny spot with an average of around 1,900 to 1,920 hours of sunshine per year.

Its location is sheltered from northerly winds by the South Downs and from westerly winds by the Isle of Wight and Selsey Bill makes it milder in temperature too.

Catherine Lofthouse has been visiting Bognor Regis since she was a child and loves it.

She said: “There’s a reason why Bognor has been a family favourite for generations and why British holiday institution Butlin’s has had a presence in the town for almost a century, despite closing lots of other locations around the country.

“Maybe the shingle shoreline isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, but paddling on pebbles does mean you’re not finding sand in all your nooks and crannies for weeks after your trip to the coast. 

“We usually stay at Butlin’s and it’s just a short walk along the prom to get to the town, passing the pier and the greenery of Waterloo Square before heading further on to Marine Park Gardens.

“Or you can catch the little land train that ferries visitors along the shoreline, costing £1.50 for adults and £1 for children. We like to stroll along, admiring the seaside architecture glinting white in the sunlight as we go.”

Weymouth, Dorset

The seaside town of Weymouth in Dorset is a great place to be not only for its sandy beaches and independent shops, but it’s sunnier than most places in the UK too.

When it’s not beach weather, visitors can visit historic sites like Nothe Fort, see the Abbotsbury Swannery or head into the Sea Life Adventure Park.

But when it’s crisp and dry, head around the corner to the Isle of Portland where you’ll find Chesil Beach, the longest in the UK that has one of the country’s best pubs.

Warm up in the The Cove House Inn is an 18th-century pub which is on the Isle of Portland in Dorset and sits right on the esplanade.

The pub is highly-rated on Tripadvisor and is number one out of the 32 restaurants on the Isle of Portland.

One visitor commented: “And the VIEWS! Amazing – right on Chesil beach with views out to sea. What a gem of a place” – it would be a great spot to watch the sun go down.

Southend-on-Sea, Essex

This other sunny destination in the UK is the only place in the list not in the south of England, instead it’s in Essex.

Southend-on-Sea is generally sunnier in the winter compared to many other parts of the UK thanks to its micro-climate on the estuary that can lead to more sunshine.

In recent years, the Essex town has seen a surge in popularity, thanks to its colourful beach huts, award-winning hotels and stunning coastline.

You can take a walk along some of the pretty beaches like Three Shells, but when you head away from the water, there’s still plenty to do – especially when it comes to eating.

Southend-on-Sea has a thriving food scene, the ‘Food in Southend’ restaurant was on the Good Food Guide’s 100 Best Local Restaurants in 2024.

Southend also has an award-winning ice cream parlour called Rossi.

Steeped in history, having started making ice cream in Essex since 1932, the Westcliff parlour has recently undergone a makeover.

Rossi is styled to look like an American diner with white washed walls and a striped awning where they serve what people call the “best ice cream in the world”.

Not only that you can get winter warmers like soup, toasties and it has an all day breakfast.

And if you want a luxe weekend break, the Roslin Beach Hotel on Thorpe Bay is a popular spot for celebrities like Michelle Keegan who was seen there earlier this year.

The Times even described the hotel as “a slice of Miami on the seafront of Thorpe Bay.”

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For more places to visit in the South East where it’s sunniest, check out our travel team’s favourite day trips.

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A WEEKEND in the home of Lego? Be there and be square, says Lifestyle Editor Catherine Bennion-Pedley.

As the jail bars slam shut and the Lego robber dramatically bows his head, the credits roll on my six-year-old daughter’s first-ever stop-motion movie.

It may not win an Oscar anytime soon, but there will surely be a sequel. Probably in about 10 minutes’ time.

We’re in the home of Lego – Billund in Denmark – visiting Lego House, which is home to 25 million bricks and a whole heap of fun.

From sitting in a huge pit of Duplo in the shadow of a giant rainbow-coloured waterfall with my son Raffy, four, to being towered over by a Lego Technic dinosaur and marvelling at the 15m-tall tree made of more than 6 million bricks, we’re amazed time and time again by the power of a toy invented more 70+ years ago.

Plus, it’s seriously hands-on and the staff are super-passionate and helpful. There are four zones – our favourite is Yellow.

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Here, we design sea creatures, before releasing scanned versions to splash about in the digital aquarium.

Next, we build characters to reflect our emotions for the dance stage. Poppy and Raffy’s eyes pop as their designs come to life.

Chef’s Table

My husband Andy and I watch the same jaw-dropping reaction from the kids at Lego House’s eatery Mini Chef, where bricks are code for menu items.

We pop our chosen combo into the computer at our table and wait for the ”mini chefs” to cook up a storm.

Once ready, our Lego lunch boxes fly down a chute and characterful robot waiters Roberta and Robert hand them over.

The lemon-and-herb-marinated salmon is the winning dish, although the special-edition chef figure and bag of bonus bricks are the real wins for the children.

Lunch costs £16 for kids, £27 for adults (Legohouse.com).

Of course, we’re not going to fly 500 miles without visiting the original Legoland up the road, too.

It feels quainter and more traditional than its Windsor counterpart back home, but the queues are shorter and there’s so much Lego to play with that a fellow Brit visitor whispers in disbelief: “This stuff would all get nicked back home!”

Driving School

Watching Poppy switch into irate driver mode, gesticulating frantically at the baffled Scandinavian kids as she drives the wrong way around a roundabout, crashes into the police car and makes a sharp U-turn into the car wash at Traffic School is well worth the extra £13 fee.

Even better, it’s a half-hour experience with a photo driving licence lanyard presented at the end – even for those who clearly shouldn’t be allowed on the road!

We kip at the Legoland Hotel, also filled with bricks aplenty, so the kids can escape the dinner table at Panorama restaurant for more Lego play once they’ve had their fill of brick-shaped chips and unlimited DIY ice-cream sundaes from the children’s buffet, £21.

We find the beef carpaccio and rich bouillabaisse hits the spot nicely, though it is pricey at £35 for two courses.

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Our final day at Legoland whizzes by riding the kids’ fave rollercoaster, the Flying Eagle, numerous times and watching Andy doing somersaults at 14m high on Apocalypseburg Sky Battle.

As weekends go, this is pretty fantastic plastic.

IF you miss the 1990s, then there is a place in Europe where you can feel like you are back there.

Sitting on the shores of Lake Altausseer in Austria is a small village of Altaussee that’s home to less than 2,000 people.

While it might be small, the village is mighty and there’s plenty still to do there, including a big annual festival.

The village hosts an annual beer festival called Altausseer Bierzelt where you can expect traditional Austrian food, beer, and music.

Each year the Oktoberfest-style experience appears in a tent with locals wearing Lederhosen and Dirndl and brass bands play.

One visitor said: “Altausseer Bierzelt feels like stepping back in time; it’s basically Oktoberfest as it was 30 years ago.

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“Smaller crowds, authentic traditions, and a truly breathtaking backdrop.”

Outside of this, visitors can explore the lake with hikes having incredible views of the towering Loser mountain.

Brown and white alpine-style houses as well as churches and waterfalls can be spotted along the way.

One of the other things to do in the village is head on a salt mine tour where you also get to see the former Nazi Stolen Art Repository, with deep tunnels and even slides in the mine.

If you are visiting during the winter season, there is the ski resort of Loser, which boasts around 29km of slopes with all levels of difficulty.

The village has a few restaurants to choose from including Schneiderwirt, which features an ornate wooden facade and serves comfort dishes.

As for where to stay, accommodation ranges from boutique alpine hotels to guesthouses and family-run inns, many within easy walking distance of the festival.

The easiest way to get to the village is by flying to Salzburg and then hopping on a train for just under two hours.

Flights to Salzburg cost as little as £30 return and from the UK takes an hour and 55 minutes.

Discover more on Salzburg from Lifestyle Editor Catherine Bennion-Pedley who visited the city and discovered mountain top fortresses.

To entertain children, one spot you have to see is the Toy Museum where kids can construct palaces, test marble runs and draw in the chalkboard caves.

And hear more about the places where she found tasty Austrian dishes and sweet treats like Salzburger Nockerl.

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GHOSTLY figures dressed all in white walked quietly past me on a dark street – hundreds of them, each with a single flame illuminating a skull-painted face.

It felt spooky, even sombre, but then came the crackle of a sound system, the pop of a tequila bottle opening — and raucous laughter.

Say hola to Mexican tradition Day of the Dead (Dia de los Muertos), known to Brits through the blistering opening scene of the James Bond movie Spectre, kids’ film Coco or the “sugar skull” make-up craze that became a Halloween trend.

Capital Mexico City draws thousands of tourists annually with its skeleton-themed parades around November 2, but the underrated city of Merida also comes alive for the celebrations.

Set in the western Yucatan peninsula — a region more known for beach resorts such as Cancun and Playa del Carmen, plus the Mayan ruins at Tulum — indigenous heritage is strong in this city, and it shows.

Day of the Dead here is called Hanal Pixan (han-al pish-an), meaning “food for the souls” in Mayan, and sees families and friends gather to celebrate departed loved ones, honouring them with a home-made altar often covered in pictures and their favourite foods.

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I visited Merida as its fiesta kicked off on October 31 with the Parade of the Souls.

This candlelit procession from the cemetery into town made for an eerie sight, but that soon changed when they cleared the way for a huge street party along Calle 64.

The long avenue was decorated with giant skeleton structures and millions of orange marigolds, while the pavements were lined with family shrines, each blasting reggaeton or ranchera music from speakers.

Shamanic rituals

It’s a great place to tuck into authentic Mexican street food because, as well as leaving the deceased’s favourite meal as an offering, families make it in bulk to sell to passers-by.

Try Yucatan’s specialties, cochinita pibil (slow-roasted pork), pan de muerto (a sweet bread made for the event) or a marquesita (if you’ve ever wondered whether Nutella and cheese taste good together).

Even beyond the festivities, this city is a foodie’s dream.

Keep things cheap by eating tacos al pastor on virtually every street corner for as little as MX$10 each (40p, take pesos to pay), or lunch at the sensational and great value Taqueria de la Union.

And no trip to Mexico is complete without a plate of chilaquiles (fried tortilla chips) for breakfast or brunch. Merida’s best are at Marmalade 47.

November 2 was the day of the main parade, and people began to line the streets early to get a good spot.

I was glad we did, too, or we would have missed the ever-changing flow of mariachi bands, traditional dancers and even pets in costume.

The Catrinas — people dressed as elegant, sombrero-wearing skeletal women — were the most eye-catching part of the evening, with unique outfits and elaborate face paint.

Unlike so many Halloween extravaganzas, this event was free of gore and heart- stopping scares, making it very kid-friendly.

It wasn’t all about the parades. Smaller-scale events took place across the city for almost a week surrounding Day of the Dead, from concerts in plazas to shamans performing Mayan rituals on street corners.

Plus, the end of the fiesta didn’t mean the end of the fun; we tracked down a speakeasy called Malahat tucked away behind a plaza, where what looked like a fridge door led to a mezcal cocktail heaven.

Colourful Merida is easily walkable and its array of crumbling colonial buildings are painted pink, yellow or blue.

Footsore? Why not wind through its kaleidoscopic streets in a horse and carriage?

The city is also a great base for discovering the Yucatan, where hundreds of cenotes (natural sinkholes) make magical swimming spots and, for a beach fix, the white sands of Puerto Progreso are 40 minutes away.

An hour more takes you to Chichen Itza, site of some of the planet’s most breath-taking Mayan ruins.

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Its New Seven Wonders of the World fame usually eclipses Merida in these parts, and the busloads of visitors are mostly heading back to resorts in Cancun and the Riviera Maya.

But if you linger in Merida, you’ll find a soulful city with its own pulse — and this beats strongest around November 2.

IN mid-Norfolk is a market town which has classic car shows, a weird hotel and it’s even close to the coast.

Twelve miles away from Norwich and 16 miles from Mundesley Beach is the town of Reepham – and it’s perfect for a staycation.

The town is known for its 18th century houses with plenty of pubs, independent shops and restaurants.

One of the most well-known spots is The Dial House which is an early 17th century red brick house and former brewery.

Now it’s a hotel with themed rooms from places around the world like Africa and Paris, and some of the rooms have freestanding baths at the end of the bed.

In 2021, The Dial House was named as being one of the ‘UK’s best quirky hotels’ by The Independent.

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The building is also home to a wine bar and pizzeria where visitors can grab a hot honey pepperoni or enjoy a fennel sausage pizza.

It doesn’t stop there, other businesses include a bakery, hair salon, massage parlours and beauty room.

As for other popular eateries in Reepham, one is The Kings Arms, a family-run coaching inn.

It was picked as the Travelers’ Choice 2025 award, and has been acknowledged by CAMRA’s Good Beer Guide. 

It serves up meals like homemade lasagne, game pie, fish and chips, steak and Sunday roasts at the end of the week.

All roasts are served with roast potatoes, fresh vegetables, honey
roasted parsnips and carrots, cauliflower cheese, Yorkshire
pudding and gluten free gravy.

The town has three churches and there’s a local legend that three sisters built them – which is why you’ll see them illustrated on the town’s sign.

There are plenty of antiques shops too like Butler and Castell, and Rococo Loco.

Earlier this year, Reepham held its annual Classic Car Festival, and it was one of its biggest events to date.

100 vintage cars were parked up in the town throughout the day and there were lots more visitors taking a look around.

Last year, Muddy Stilettos put Reepham in the top 300 best places to live in the UK.

It said: “Centred around a pretty market square dotted with 18th century properties to lust after, Reepham has good schools, numerous independent shops and all your daily needs taken care of.

“It’s countryside living in a fantastic, vibrant town that’s ideal for families. Plus, it’s only half an hour to the coast and, in the other direction, the fine city of Norwich.”

One of the beaches closest to Reepham is Mundesley Beach which has a long, sandy shoreline and calm sea make this one of the best spots in Norfolk for swimming.

It’s also known as being one of the cleanest beaches in the UK and has Blue Flag status.

Norfolk was declared the cheapest place for a UK staycation in September, and this one is my favourite.

“I love Cromer, the seaside town that sits on the north coast of Norfolk in between East Runton and Overstrand.

“It’s known for its golden sandy beach, a town full of pubs and souvenir shops, a Victorian Pier and of course, Cromer crab.

“While seaside towns can be more expensive than towns inland, there are places in Cromer that are a little cheaper, you just have to know where to look.

“For example, rather than heading to a fancy ice cream parlour along the front, dart into the roads behind the beach and you’ll find Windows Ice Cream.

“Another cheap spot is the Kings Head, which is in the town, but still has a sunny beer garden. And my favourite fish and chips spot is on the corner of Garden Street called Mary Janes.”

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ONE of the easiest ways to travel around Europe is by train – and a new vintage train in Spain will take you to some of the most popular cities.

The distance between Madrid to Seville is around 300 miles long, but if you’re onboard a retro luxury train, the travel is isn’t a chore at all.

Al Andalus will begin a seven-day route from southern Spain to the capital from spring 2026.

The train doesn’t just trundle straight through from one destination to the other either, as there are plenty of stops along the way.

Stops include Córdoba, Alcázar de San Juan, Mérida, Jerez and Aranjuez as well as visits to UNESCO sites and beach towns.

Another of the stops along the way is to Cádiz, a pretty port city in Andalusia.

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There’s a huge cathedral and Roman amphitheatre next to the city’s promenade as well as La Caleta – one of the local beaches, and outdoor market, Mercado Central.

Sun Writer Hope Brotherton visited previously visited the city and you can find out more on what she thought about these attractions here.

The luxury and vintage train is the longest on the Spanish tracks and is 450 metres in length.

It’s made up of 14 carriages, which accommodate a total of 64 people – there are two restaurant cars, a kitchen car, a bar car, playroom car, seven bed cars, as well as one for crew, and another for machinery.

Onboard are four lounges based on the 1920s which serve traditional Andalusian dishes and drinks.

Breakfast is served daily in the Alhambra and Gibralfaro restaurants where passengers can enjoy both an a la carte and buffet meal.

The Grand Class Room is the smaller of the room options and is fitted with two single beds.

It has a wardrobe, safe, luggage compartment, minibar, air con and a private bathroom with a shower.

It’s not just for sleeping in either, during the day, the cabin can be transformed into a living room.

The beds fold into armchairs and guests can sit to watch the views from the window.

A Grand Class Room for two people is €13,200 (£11,456), or for one individual is €11,200 (£9,722).

Meanwhile, the Deluxe Suite Room is larger at 89 square foot with a large double bed.

It comes with all the amenities that the Grande Class Room has, and the private bathroom has a hydromassage shower.

The day bed turns into a comfortable sofa and each of the suites has 24-hour room service.

For a Deluxe Suite Room, it’s €15,800 (£13,715) for two people, or €13,800 (£11,978) for an individual.

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Here are the list of stops along the new route from Seville to Madrid…

Day One – Seville – Cordoba

Day Two – Córdoba – Cádiz – Jerez

Day Three – Jerez – Zafra

Day Four – Zafra – Cáceres – Mérida

Day Five – Mérida – Alcázar de San Juan

Day Six – Alcázar de San Juan – Toledo – Aranjuez

Day Seven – Aranjuez – Madrid

Here’s more on where to visit in Spain by one writer who goes there every month.

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SPAIN is usually just a short flight from the UK, but there’s one city further afield and is actually closer to Morocco than the Spanish mainland.

The small coastal city has plenty of historical sites, beaches and a mythically-inspired building.

The city is called Ceuta, and doesn’t tend attract Brits, instead visitors tend to be Spanish and Moroccan thanks to where it sits in North Africa.

But there’s plenty to see, including one popular attraction called House of the Dragons, aka Casa de los Dragones, which sits on the corner of Kings Square.

Construction on the building started in 1897 and was completed in 1905, it got its name thanks to the four bronze dragon statues on the roof.

The original dragons were removed in 1925 and lost, but four new dragons were later added in 2006, these are made of resin and fiberglass – they weigh less than 200kg each.

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One visitor wrote on Tripadvisor: “Stunning architecture and well kept with dragons on the roof……… Straight out of Game of Thrones or Harry Potter!!!”.

There’s a similar building in the town of Valencia, which is called the Building of the Dragons.

The Valencia house incorporates dragons too, but more subtly.

Despite its proximity to Morocco, the official currency in Ceuta is the Euro, as it’s a Spanish city.

Visitors can expect to pay about €2.50 to €3 (£2.62) for a local beer and around €15 (£13.08) per person for a “menu del día” – which is a set Spanish menu.

Ceuta has beaches like Playa del Chorrillo, which is close to the Strait of Gibraltar and has pretty scenic views.

The city has cobbled streets, historic buildings, and cultural landmarks like Royal Walls of Ceuta, also called Murallas Reales de Ceuta, a historic fort dating back to 962 AD.

Another popular site is the Ceuta Cathedral, a yellow-and-white cathedral overlooking Plaza de África.

As Ceuta is in North Africa, it’s convenient to explore Morocco too.

About an hour away by car is the seaside city of Tangier city is at the very tip of Morocco and on a clear day, you can even see Spain across the Strait of Gibraltar.

Tangier has been a major trade centre for thousands of years thanks to its location and busy port.

Visitors can learn about its interesting history with a guided tour, and wander through Kasbah, the walled part of the city full of tiny streets and alleys.

Kasbah has been used for Hollywood movies including James Bond and the Bourne film series.

For more on a trip to Morocco, check out the other cities with souks and where to find golden beaches.

For Brits, the best way to visit Ceuta is to fly to a Spanish mainland airport like Malaga or Algeciras, then take a car or bus to Algeciras port, and finally a ferry to Ceuta.

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WHEN it comes to a real-life paradise, the closest you’ll probably get to it is the Caribbean.

And there’s one destination that’s seeing more tourists than ever which is developing new hotels so visitors can enjoy the hot weather and beautiful beaches.

St Vincent and the Grenadines is the fastest-growing tourism destination in the Caribbean with 17.3 percent more visitors in the first half of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024.

Jamaica and Barbados are the Caribbean islands most visited by Brits – but St Vincent and the Grenadines has the potential to be your next holiday spot.

You can get there by flying to Argyle International Airport on St Vincent – and then, from there you can explore the 32 islands and cays.

The country’s capital is Kingstown in St Vincent, where visitors explore historical sites like Fort Charlotte and the Gothic cathedrals.

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The capital has Botanical Gardens, waterfalls, and plenty of opportunities to try out water activities like boat tours, snorkelling, and diving.

The waters have plenty of marine life like whales, dolphins, green sea turtles and lots of reef fish.

Of course being an island, St Vincent has some incredible beaches from Indian Bay, Villa Beach and Mt. Wynne Beach – which has volcanic black sand.

St Vincent is home to the country’s largest volcano called La Soufrière.

It’s active too, with the last explosive events happening in 2021.

The island has rainforests as well and visitors can hike through the Vermont Nature Trail and the Cumberland Forest Reserve.

The island country is a great for fans of the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise which was filmed across its beaches and rainforest.

It was even rumoured that St Vincent would open a theme park to honour the films.

St Vincent and the Grenadines is one of the best spots for winter sun, as throughout the whole year the temperature averages between 24-27C.

The rainy season runs from June through November, with the wettest months typically being October and November.

The island country consists of eight other inhabited islands; Young Island, Bequia, Mustique, Canouan, Union Island, Mayreau, Petit St Vincent and Palm Island.

To get to the other most popular islands, visitors can use ferries or take regional flights.

Here you’ll find white-sand beaches and plenty more swimming spots in the bright blue Caribbean sea.

To accommodate the increasing number of visitors in St Vincent and the Grenadines, there are four new projects across the islands and all are set to open by 2027.

The first is called Peter’s Hope Resort Development Project, which is a 280-room beachfront Marriott Autograph Collection hotel.

Another is the Beaches St. Vincent and the Grenadines which will be a 360-room resort focusing on families that will be built at Mt. Wynne.

The Palm Island Development is a new project with phase one scheduled to open in December 2026.

And the Cumberland Bay Resort Development Project will be a 150-room beachfront resort set to have pretty overwater bungalows, cottages, a hotel and small marina. 

Virgin Atlantic connects St. Vincent with a stopover at the neighbouring island of Barbados taking around 11 hours.

You can fly from London Heathrow to St Vincent with return fares from £574.92.

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This island in St Vincent and the Grenadines is known as ‘turtle island’…

CANOUAN sits between St Vincent and Grenada, and it’s one of the smallest measuring at three square miles and has a population of around 2,000.

Known for its abundance of turtles, tortoises and beautiful beaches, the little-known island doesn’t get many tourists, which means it’s a hotspot for celebs.

Thanks to it being lesser-known, the island of Canouan has been known to be a popular Caribbean spot for celebrities.

Due to its privacy, the likes of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, George Clooney, Leonardo DiCaprio, Robert Downey Jr., and Cindy Crawford have all been seen there.

Another reason for its popularity amongst the famous is the amount of luxury resorts there – and the fact that they all allow use of the ‘invisible key’, which means you can use facilities across all of them.

The island is known for being peaceful and quiet, but is rising in popularity amongst travellers.

It has a nickname too, Canouan is sometimes referred to as ‘Turtle Island’.

As you might have guessed this is because the island is a natural sanctuary for green sea turtles which swim off the coast.

During the months of May and October, the turtles hatch along the beach, so if you stick around until dawn, you might spot tiny hatchlings make their way from the sand to the sea.

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WHEN Brits think about the best cities in the UK, the ones that come to mind are probably the likes of York, Edinburgh, Liverpool, Manchester, Brighton or London.

But according to National Geographic, one of ‘best places in the world to travel to in 2026’ is Hull – all thanks to its lively bar scene, award-winning aquarium, and completion of a huge project costing millions.

Hull, is a port city in East Yorkshire that sits on the north bank of the river Humber.

National Geographic has named it as one of the best places in the entire world to visit next year, but it’s not always been so up and coming.

For example in Hull took top spot in the book Crap Towns: The 50 Worst Places to Live in the UK back in 2003.

However, it’s set to become more popular in 2026, and National Geographic mentioned that one of the reasons why is Hull’s investment into conserving its rich maritime history.

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Hull was a very important trade route during the 13th and 14th centuries.

Thanks to this, you can see Dutch-influenced architecture buildings that line the streets of the quaint Old Town. 

Since 2020, the Maritime Museum has been undergoing a huge revamp worth £11million, but it will finally reopen to the public next year.

This has been part of a wider £27.5 million project to promote Hull’s maritime history which has gone into restoring the museum and ships.

Another reason is the city’s new leisure spots that have transformed warehouses and the old waterside Fruit Market to become bars, restaurants, and art galleries.

The publication added: “There’s also a spectacular performance amphitheater, called Stage@TheDock, overlooking River Hull where it meets the Humber Estuary.”

It continued: “And a former shipyard has for over 20 years been the base for The Deep, one of the United Kingdom’s most highly respected aquariums and marine conservation centers.”

The Deep is one of the country’s best aquariums, and the attraction is listed as one of top thing to do on Hull’s TripAdvisor.

Inside, visitors will be able to see sharks, turtles, penguins, and the UK’s only Green sawfish.

Head into the city and you’ll find the towering Hull Minster, the largest parish church in England (by floor area), it’s over 700 years old and is known to have some of the finest medieval brickwork in the country.

If visitors want to get a panoramic view of Hull, they can choose to climb the 180 steps up the spiral staircase.

It’s not just all about history, as Hull is a star of the screen having been used in the backdrop of lots of well-known TV shows and movies.

It even has its own showbiz trail called ‘It Must Be Hullywood‘, a walking route designed for tourists to see sites of their favourite shows.

And they’re big shows too like The Crown, Bodies, Enola Holmes 2 and ITV‘s Victoria starring Jenna Coleman.

Visitors to Hull can download a guide or grab a leaflet to follow the trail at their own pace.

It’s not the first time Hull has been revealed to be a city on the rise, it was even named one of Time Out’s best places to visit in 2024. In 2017, Hull was named the UK City of Culture.

Last year, Sun Travel explored Hull as part of Sun Travel’s Best of British series, and writer Hope Brotherton went to explore the city, here’s what she discovered.

For shopping, Hope suggested heading to Humber Street which used to be lined with fruit and veg traders but now has cool independent clothing and homeware shops, an art gallery and some of the city’s trendiest restaurants.

When it comes to things to do, head to Dinostar, an interactive dinosaur museum designed specifically for inquisitive kids where there’s everything from yrannosaurus Rex skull to Triceratops bones.

Other stops include the William Wilberforce House Museum and the Hull & East Riding Museum of Archaeology.

Hull has plenty of pubs and in 2023 was crowned the UK’s cheapest place for beers last year – some of Hope’s favourite included The Minerva pub and the Lion and Key.

The city is also rightfully proud of their Hearth Restaurant & Bakery, which is even listed in the Michelin Guide. 

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After spending a weekend in the city, Hope said: “From its maritime history to its free walking tours and other cultural attractions, Hull has it all for a great weekend break.

After 48 hours in the city, I could see why the locals I met are so proud to come from Hull – I would be, too.”

National Geographic’s ‘best places in the world to travel to in 2026’…

The Dolomites, Milan, Italy

Québec, Canada

Beijing, China

Dominica

Rabat, Morocco

Hull, Yorkshire, England

North Dakota Badlands, U.S.

Manila, Philippines

Black Sea Coast, Türkiye

Khiva, Uzbekistan

Akagera National Park, Rwanda, East Africa

Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada

Yamagata Prefecture, Japan

Route 66: Oklahoma, U.S.

Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, Australia

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Oulu, Finland

South Korea

Guimarães, Portugal

Basque Country, Spain

Maui, Hawaii, U.S.

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, U.S.

Coastal Oaxaca (Costa Chica), Mexico

Fiji

Medellín, Colombia

Banff, Canada

CHRISTMAS markets sound fun and cosy, walking around cobbled streets with a cup of mulled wine and gazing up at twinkling light – but no one enjoys doing that in the pouring rain.

But there’s one place in the UK that has an incredible light trail, plenty of food, ice skating and it’s all inside.

During the day, the Eden Project in Cornwall is home to beautiful famous tropical gardens showing off exotic plants and flowers.

But come 4pm from the end of November, it turns into a winter wonderland where kids can meet Father Christmas and families can skate across the indoor ice rink.

The Biomes look like huge baubles from the outside lit up on reds and greens, and this year, there’s a new Christmas Light Experience inside the Mediterranean Biome.

The Rainforest dome will be lit up with rainbow lights behind the palm trees and waterfall.

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Father Christmas will be there too along with his elves, and families can meet them during a 45-minute experience.

It’s completely immersive, with ‘theatrical surprises’ and children get a gift too.

The ice rink is back as well and is also under cover so there’s no chance of bad weather ruining the experience, and there’s plenty of opportunity to munch on festive food too.

The cafes and restaurants will serve up winter warming snacks and drinks on Christmas Lights evenings – most will close at 7.15pm.

There will be everything from hearty family meals to mince pies and mulled wine.

Also available is the chance to book a luxury three-course Christmas lunch which will be served on the Med Terrace Restaurant.

Bookings for the festive lunch, include free entry to the Eden Project.

For most Christmas experiences you’ll have to wrap up, but make sure to be prepared for warmth if you visit.

During the Christmas events, the domes maintain their usual warm temperatures – especially in the humid Rainforest Biome which can reach up to 35C.

There are some areas that are outside still so it’s advisable to bring a coat too.

This year the Cornwall Christmas Market will return to the Eden Project for two days only, November 19-20, 2025.

There will be 70 stalls set up so you can get Christmas treats and stocking fillers.

Christmas at the Eden Project runs from Friday November 21, 2025 to Sunday January 4, 2026.

Entry to the domes for the Christmas lights between 4-8PM requires two tickets – the standard entry at £38 (for adults if bought in advance) and the specific Christmas experience which is £5.50pp.

Visiting Father Christmas also requires standard entry along with the experience ticket which is £32 – entry for one adult and one child.

The ice rink is open from now until February 2026, visitors can book a general skate session which is 40-minutes long and costs £13 for adults and £10 for children.

There are also family-fun session on selected mornings, parent & toddler ice play and even ice skating lessons.

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Here are five cheap Christmas markets in Europe…

Bratislava, Slovakia

The Christmas Market in Bratislava is found between the Main Square and Hviezdoslavovo Square, with an ice skating rink as well.

Last year, it was even named the cheapest Christmas Market break by the Post Office.

Vilnius, Lithuania

Vilnius is another cheap Christmas Market destination and even the European Christmas Capital this year.

The biggest market is at Cathedral Square, where you will find the huge central Christmas Tree, with a smaller one at Town Hall Square.

Riga, Latvia

Riga is also often named one of Europe‘s cheapest Christmas Market destinations.

There are live DJs as well as a Santa House alongside the usual market stalls.

Gdansk, Poland

For Gdansk’s Christmas Markets, you need to head to Targ Węglow where there is a fairground and light installations.

It even won the Best Christmas Markets in Europe 2025 award.

Vienna, Austria

Vienna’s Rathausplatz Christmas Market is a popular one, as well as one of Europe’s largest.

It has 150 stalls, a small theme park and welcomed three million people last year.

Here’s another underrated European town with a pretty Christmas market and festive train that costs less to visit than a UK staycation.

Plus, the prettiest Christmas markets in Britain – with hotel stays from £37.

THERE are plenty of quirky pubs around the UK, and some of the best are the ones that take you by surprise.

I recently stumbled on one of the most extraordinary pubs I’ve ever been in – only to discover it’s unlikely to be around for very much longer.

We had gone for a walk on a fine autumn day on the North Kent Downs, that ridge of hills which runs along the southern edge of the M25 and are crisscrossed by ancient pathways.

There’s the Green Sand Ridge Path and The Pilgrims Way which was used by those walking to Canterbury Cathedral from London and beyond since the time of Chaucer and his tales.

Our starting point was Kemsing, a pretty village of historic redbrick cottages sitting at the foot of those hills.

Our walk was supposed to start from the Wheatsheaf pub – only for us to discover it closed in 2011. But Kemsing’s other pub, The Bell, is still going and looked rather nice.

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From there, the walk was quite a climb to get up to the top of the Downs, but when you get there you are rewarded with the most spectacular and far-reaching views across the Weald of Kent.

You can see as far as the counterpoint South Down hills many miles away by the coast.

Once up there, our route was to take us along a couple of those old paths in a loop across the hill top and back down again – about five miles in total.

As we walked, I was looking at the map on my phone to check we were on the right lines.

On Google Maps, I noticed the words “The Rising Sun” with no further explanation – as if a landmark just off the path we were on.

Could this indicate a still-functioning pub? Our walk guidebook hadn’t mentioned one but the name suggested ‘pub,’ and after climbing that hill the idea of a cheeky mid-walk pint was becoming increasingly appealing. 

If it was open, it had no website or social media footprint – but there were a few reports of ‘a time warp pub’ and ‘eccentric’ that sounded encouraging.

And then there it was, an old flint building, with a painted sign literally showing the sun rising, a slightly overgrown garden and no lights on inside.

We went up to the door and turned the handle with some trepidation… and it opened onto a dim room with just an older lady and her cat inside.

It was almost spooky, in a haunted public house kind of way, to be in this dark and slightly cluttered room that must be 400 years old – or it would have been spooky if landlady Michelle Hunter wasn’t so chatty.

But she was, so we talked to her at some length. She was very entertaining company, full of stories as a landlady should be. 

Michelle serves local beers from nearby Westerham, ciders too. She does have a card machine but it’s on the blink, so cash is advisable. They used to do food but not for years. 

She has been living in and running The Rising Sun for over 30 years, often single-handedly as when we met her.  

And this isn’t her first appearance in The Sun: there’s a newspaper cutting on the wall above the fire about the unexplained death of pet bird Charlie in the pub many years ago, headlined “Hercule Parrot”. 

Her cat has a story too – it just turned up one evening when she reopened after lockdown and stayed, then kept coming back for opening time, like a regular now it never leaves. It still has no name, just “cat”. 

She also has other animals – including 20 cows. Quite the menagerie. 

But there was a sad end to Michelle’s story. It’s hard work keeping the place going on her own and she barely breaks even.

Her state pension comes through in three months and after that she intends to give the pub another year, but if business doesn’t pick up dramatically she’s going to stop opening at all.

She’ll just live there with her animals in what will become yet another ‘former pub’. 

I reckon this plan gives The Rising Sun about 15 months more of opening. So I strongly urge you to go while you still can. 

There’s lots of stuff locally to combine with a visit. It’s just around the corner from one of the finest stately homes in the South East for example – Knole Park, with its magnificent deer park.

Kemsing, where we started from, down the hill, is just a short hop from the attractive commuter belt town of  Sevenoaks. But it feels like an altogether more old fashioned place – and The Rising Sun is its secret gem. 

The Bell isn’t bad either we discovered on our way back but it’s this quirky gem that will live on in memory. 

The CAMRA Good Pub Guide calls it ‘a remote hilltop pub that is difficult to find without the help of a map’. But even with one you may not find it open much longer. 

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WHEN you date one ­Beckham, you date the whole brood.

So make no mistake, news that middle son Romeo has reunited with Kim Turnbull after a five-month break is a ­significant development for everyone concerned.

After all, his former flame was blamed earlier this year for igniting the feud between the Beckhams and their eldest lad, Brooklyn.

It came as rumours swirled that she dated their first-born long before coupling up with his younger brother.

Reports suggested at the time that Brooklyn’s wife, Nicola Peltz-Beckham, felt “uncomfortable” around Kim and didn’t want her in the fold.

And although Kim vehemently denied that she and Brooklyn were ever an item, the pressure no doubt contributed to her decision to step away from the family circus in May.

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At the time, insiders argued that Kim and Romeo’s break was amicable and undramatic, and had nothing to do with soaring tensions with his now estranged brother.

But there is no denying that all the scrutiny had an impact, as Kim herself lashed out at the “harassment” and “lies” levelled against her.

Cut to this week and Romeo, 23, posted a cosy snap of himself with 24-year-old Kim, a model and DJ — seemingly confirming whispers they had reunited after he liked several of her Instagram snaps in recent weeks.

Once again, the implications for the family are huge.

Let’s remember, we are fast approaching a year since Brooklyn and Nicola were last pictured with the Beckhams, in December 2024.

Respectful silence

In the interim, their silent estrangement has been deafening, as they failed to publicly acknowledge David’s 50th birthday in May or his long-hoped-for knighthood the following month.

Likewise, they did not blink as Victoria won plaudits for her Paris Fashion Week show and launched her self-titled Netflix documentary series earlier this month.

Likewise, they did not blink as Victoria won plaudits for her Paris Fashion Week show and launched her self-titled Netflix documentary series earlier this month.

What Brooklyn and Nicola did do was loudly declare their devotion to one another.

But now that David and Victoria have implicitly co-signed on Romeo’s reunion with Kim, insiders say there really is “no going back”.

If Brooklyn and Nicola were testing his parents’ loyalty, Kim’s proud return to the family fold says a lot.

Consider again the tenets of the Beckham clan. As we know, the family comes as a package deal and — like the monarchy — it is built on hierarchy, bloodlines and loyalty.

If Brooklyn and Nicola were testing his parents’ loyalty, Kim’s proud return to the family fold says a lot

Try to overstep your status or stage a coup and you will be cast out quicker than you can say, “Bend it like Beckham”.

But align yourself with the status quo — and the brand — and the pay-off can be huge.

Just look at Jackie Apostel, the girlfriend of their youngest son Cruz, who has been flying the flag for the next gen Beckham Wags in recent months.

Earlier this week, Victoria and David, who are also parents to Harper, 14, wished Jackie a happy 30th birthday on Instagram — with Victoria declaring, “We all love you” and David calling her “a very special person inside and out”.

This follows Jackie’s dutiful dedication to her would-be in-laws over the past year.

She cheered Victoria on in Paris, and also walked the red carpet with the brood at the premiere of Vic’s Netflix series.

Over the summer, she was a mainstay on their £16million yacht in St Tropez and the Amalfi Coast.

And, of course, she was dressed to the nines in a Victoria Beckham number at David’s black-tie 50th bash.

Notably, Kim was also in attendance at that star-studded event — also dressed in Victoria Beckham threads.

But it proved to be her last public outing with the clan as, just weeks later, reports emerged that she and Romeo had split after some seven months together.

At the time, scrutiny was at an all-time high over Brooklyn and Nicola’s shocking snub of David’s big birthday events. Meanwhile, reports swirled from Nicola’s camp that she was fuming over Kim’s omnipresence.

And Brooklyn has since made it clear countless times that his wife comes first. He doubled down on that message in May, calling Nicola his “whole world” and writing in a gushing tribute: “I always choose you baby.”

Most recently, he said in an interview at the Ryder Cup celebrity golf match: “There’s always going to be people saying negative things, but I have a very supportive wife.

“Me and her — we just do our thing, we just keep our heads down and work. And we’re happy.”

There’s always going to be people saying negative things, but I have a very supportive wife

Brooklyn

While it was widely reported that Brooklyn and Kim had dated when she was 17 and he was 16, those rumours were dispelled.

Cruz was first to rubbish the claims on Instagram. When one fan commented under a photo of Romeo and Kim, “It’s appropriate to date your brother’s ex too? Cool”, Cruz bluntly responded: “Brooklyn and Kim never dated.”

Then, in the immediate aftermath of her break-up from Romeo, Kim took the matter into her own hands. She wrote on Instagram in June: “I’ve avoided speaking on this topic to prevent adding fuel to the fire, however it’s come to a point where I feel the need to address it.

“I will not continue to receive harassment or be embarrassed on the basis of lies, to fit a certain narrative.

“I have never been romantically involved in ANY capacity at ANY point with the person in question.”

She then took a step away from the famous family.

But, crucially, she has maintained a respectful silence since.

And that has undoubtedly made her return to the fold all the more seamless.

Meanwhile, in August, Brooklyn and Nicola went for the jugular, holding an elaborate vow renewal ceremony that demonstrably erased the Beckhams from the narrative. Nicola’s billionaire father Nelson Peltz presided over proceedings, while the “bride” wore her mother Claudia’s wedding dress.

She and Brooklyn then spent the summer holidaying with her family on their £85million yacht in Europe — casting a large shadow over the Beckhams’ relatively smaller vessel.

The message was clear: Nicola does not plan to walk in Victoria’s shadow; instead, she is ready to leave her in-laws in the shade.

All this has, of course, been devastating for Victoria.

But her one saving grace has been the people she has supporting her.

Perhaps, surprisingly, it is singer Jackie who has devotedly cemented herself in recent months as the de facto daughter-in-law.

As a pay-off, she is now living the gilded life that only those in the Beckhams’ inner circle enjoy.

She has become one of Victoria’s most valued brand ambassadors, and recently had the honour of promoting her beauty brand online.

What’s more, she has landed lucrative ads for brands including Dior Sauvage, Sol De Janeiro and Jimmy Choo, and signed deals with the likes of Burberry and Summer Fridays.

Playing by the rules

Experts say she can now earn £10,000 per sponsored post.

As well as finding love, Jackie, who grew up in Brazil, has been granted access to an exclusive world and is playing by the rules.

Now, provided that Kim treads the same path, there is no reason why she should not also be fully welcomed back into the fold — and get to enjoy certain perks along the way.

She herself is no stranger to the gilded life of a well-heeled clan.

Raised in North London, she is part of the bohemian Turnbull dynasty and — as a teenager — socialised with the likes of Brooklyn and fellow nepo baby, Madonna’s son Rocco Ritchie.

Following Kim and Romeo’s tacit soft launch as a reunited couple this week, Kim has kept sensibly quiet on Instagram

Her grandfather was the renowned post-war sculptor and painter William Turnbull, whose work has been exhibited at galleries including London’s Tate.

Meanwhile, her dad Alex founded influential hip-hop label Ronin Records and is a longtime member of the post-punk band, 23 Skidoo.

As a DJ and influencer, Kim already has some high-profile events under her belt.

But being closely associated, for the right reasons, with one of showbiz’s most famous families will only help her career.

Following Kim and Romeo’s tacit soft launch as a reunited couple this week, Kim has kept sensibly quiet on Instagram.

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But it is only a matter of time before we see her hit the red carpet, dressed once more in Victoria Beckham fineries.

It’s a case of date one, date them all. But always play by the rules.

BRITS could be set to welcome a new mega zipline after the world’s biggest tunnel flopped.

The Olympic Park’s iconic ArcelorMittal Orbit was crowned the world’s longest tunnel after it was built in 2012.

But, despite all its glory, the site never attracted enough visitors to operate a sustainable business.

In a bid to save the location from ruin, Zip World took over in September and vowed to install a huge zipwire.

The company has submitted a planning application which, if accepted, would see a switchback zipwire made.

Tourists would be strapped into a chair that takes them from the top of the Orbit and back up again.

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The wire would measure a whopping 440m and stretch over to London Stadium.

Plans need to be approved by Tower Hamlets and Newham council officials.

If they are given the greenlight, it is estimated the attraction would fetch 60,000 visitors each year.

Designed by Sir Anish Kapoor and Cecil Balmond for London 2012, the ArcelorMittal Orbit delighted visitors during the games before reopening to the public in 2014.

The ArcelorMittal Orbit isn’t just a huge sculpture, it’s also home to the world’s biggest tunnel slide, the Helix.

Standing at 76m and stretching for 178m, brave visitors can reach speeds of up to 15mph on the slide.

The huge tunnel slide also features 12 turns, which twist and snake around the Olympic Park sculpture, making for a dizzying journey.

If this sounds too stomach-churning, then visitors can also take in panoramic views over London from the ArcelorMittal Orbit 360 viewing deck.

Located at the top of the sculpture, the viewing platform boasts views for as far as 20 miles on a clear day.

Roughly, 1.2million have visited the London-based attraction since it opened to the public.

Visitors have praised the attraction in their reviews on TripAdvisor, with one person writing: “The views across London are spectacular, and you get great views across the park, the stadium, and the city”.

ZipWorld boss, Andrew Hudson, said earlier this year: “We are excited to announce the re-opening date for the ArcelorMittal Orbit at Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, ready for half term.

“This is just the start for Zip World in London, and we can’t wait to welcome both locals and thrill-seekers from around the world. 

“We’ve got many more epic adventures lined up that will redefine urban excitement in the heart of the city.

“We’ll continue working closely with LLDC as we expand our off world-class experiences to bring something truly unique to the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.”

Entry tickets to the ArcelorMittal Orbit 360 viewing deck start from £7, with tickets for Helix starting from £14.

Adventure giant Zip World has a host of other attractions in the UK, including the UK’s first zipline rollercoaster at Penrhyn Quarry in Snowdonia.

The Aero Explorer ride opened in 2023 and offers thrill-seekers a “high-speed journey across the quarry” like no other.

An overhead track is connected to a harness on the rider, which enables them to glide around as if they’re on a rollercoaster.

The track is found high above the quarry, offering views of the landscape as people fly around connected to the circuit above.

This comes as The Sun revealed London’s best free indoor attractions for families – perfect for rainy days.

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We also shared the 15 attractions in the UK that have £1 per person tickets from huge castles to kid-friendly museums.

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THE year of 2025 is coming to a close, which means it’s time to think about where you should be taking a break next year, and we have some very good deals for you.

Holiday expert for On the Beach, Robert Brooks, has found some incredible deals for each month of 2026 – and every holiday is under £1000pp.

January

To kick off 2026 right, Rob says holidaymakers should head to Tenerife, the largest of the Canary Islands where “prices actually drop after the New Year”.

The island has beautiful beaches, theme parks, plenty of nightlife as well as pretty old towns.

The island is known for having year-round sunshine, which is why it makes for a great pick in January – it has highs of 20C.

As for where to stay, Rob revealed his choice would be Laguna Park II which he described as “a proper sunshine escape to kick off the year.

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“This Costa Adeje spot has a massive pool and mountain views, with plenty of space for little ones to splash about. It’s simple, sunny, and unbeatable value for winter warmth.”

Five nights in January at the Laguna Park II for a family of four (self-catering) starts from £168pp.

For more on what to do when you get to the island, discover where the locals like to visit, from the best beaches and bars in Costa Adeje to budget attractions and must-do activities.

February

Knowing what Brits want, Rob was on the hunt for a holiday that’s “warm, fun and cheap” in February, which Marrakech has in abundance.

The hotel isn’t one you’ll want to miss either, Rob describes it as “a red-walled palace that’s pure Moroccan magic.

“Think palm gardens, serene pools and spa vibes a few minutes from the Medina buzz. Perfect for a romantic February reset with sunshine and mint tea by the pool.”

It’s called the Palais El Miria, which is a few minutes drive away from the centre of Marrakech.

Each room is decorated in traditional Moroccan colours, and has an ensuite bathroom with shower and a private terrace.

Some suites also include baths and private indoor gardens.

Head of Sun Travel Lisa Minot recently visited Marrakech, where she revealed it to be as “exciting as ever” with plenty of spots to sunbathe but also explore the markets and head across the desert dunes.

Five nights in February at the Palais El Miria for two adults on a bed and breakfast basis starts from £273pp.

March

The weather in the Mediterranean begins to warm up in March, so you can take a short trip to the likes of Malta or Madeira

But where Rob actually recommends is the legendary American city of Las Vegas, where Rob adds it’s “22C in March and you can go for the weekend, it’s really not that bad – plenty warm for me and plenty to do”.

As for the hotel, head to the Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino which has “bright lights, big pool, and blackjack. This classic Vegas resort delivers that proper Strip energy with everything on your doorstep.

“Perfect for a short hit of glam, shows, and sunshine before spring kicks in back home.”

If you want to head into the city, the hotel has a monorail that takes you to the heart of the local attractions like the Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens, the Neon Museum, and of course, you can’t miss the “Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas” sign.

For more on what to do and the best attractions in Las Vegas, read more on our guide to the ‘world’s biggest adult playground’.

Four nights in March at the Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino for two adults for room only starts from £595pp.

April

Rob told Sun Travel: “In April, one place springs to mind straight away because April’s the sweet spot in Rome before all the crowds turn up”.

He continued: “It’s warm enough for gelato and piazzas but cool enough to walk through them all day. Rome is at its best when locals outnumber the tourists”

The B&B Hotel Roma Tuscolana San Giovanni is conveniently placed in the heart of the city and it’s right next to the train station is any other parts of Italy tickle your fancy.

Rob adds: “This comfy, modern hotel puts you close to the sights without the faff. Perfect for pizza, piazzas and people-watching before summer crowds arrive.”

For top tips on visiting Rome, one writer revealed some of the best places he discovered on a trip there – like eating in a restaurant that was a former sculptor’s workshop.

Of course you have to see the classics too; no trip to the Italian city is complete without seeing the iconic Colosseum and Trevi Fountain.

Two nights in April for at B&B Hotel Roma Tuscolana San Giovanni for two adults for bed and breakfast starts from £208pp.

May

In May, Rob says: “We’re into summer and I want to go somewhere that’s already in full swing, 27C all-inclusive and prices that are half of what they’ll be in July – Antalya’s my pick”.

The seaside resort in Turkey is known for being a hit with families thanks to its abundance of activities like the Land of Legends theme park, to spending time on its beautiful beaches.

Rob suggests staying in the Numa Konaktepe Hotel for “family sun and zero stress.

“With its private beach, slides, and stacks of food options, this place is made for lazy pool days and warm evenings. May sunshine guaranteed – and your wallet stays happy too.”

During May, temperatures reach pleasant average highs of 24C and there’s an average of just two days of rain during the entire month.

An all-inclusive seven night stay for a family of four at the Numa Konaktepe starts from £237pp.

June

Halfway through the year, and Rob is firm on where to head during June.

He said: “I’m going to a Greek island, and they don’t get better than Rhodes for me. Hot but bearable, crystal waters and lovely beaches before peak season.”

You can stay at Pefkos Beach, which Rob dubs a “Greek gem” which has both “a laid-back and lively vibe”.

It’s also got a big outdoor pool with a poolside bar, and while it has an on-site restaurant, it’s very near to local eateries.

One writer recently visited the island where she saw the Acropolis ruins, pretty windmills and discovered that you can sign up to an olive oil or wine tasting course.

Seven nights at the Pefkos Beach in Rhodes for a family of four (self-catering) starts from £324pp.

July

During the summer months, prices can quickly increase, but Rob has his eye on somewhere which doesn’t seem to have been hit so hard.

He says: “In recent years, I’ve seen so many great value bookings to the Algarve: family-friendly, easy to get to with loads of flight availability, you can even party there if you want, and it’s cheaper than Spain at this time of year.”

With On the Beach, you can book to go to Colina da Lapa, a luxury apartment complex with pretty gardens and a huge swimming pool.

You can laze about on the sunbeds, or splash about in the pool, but for entertainment, you can play tennis, table tennis, basketball, beach volleyball, billiards, minigolf and golf.

It has an outdoor terrace and a restaurant and for daytrips, it’s very near the the town of Carvoeiro .

For more tips on where to go in the Algarve, head here where Sun Travel delves further into what to do in Faro, Silves and Lagos.

Seven nights for a family of four (self-catering) at the Colina da Lapa during July starts from £315pp.

August

“There are few places as beautiful as Croatia in August, yes it’s busy, but worth it. Island hopping, beach clubs, turquoise water, it’s like Ibiza but half the price and double the charm.”

The Zaton Holiday Resort in Zadar will be a hit with families who will never be bored thanks to its nine swimming pools with plenty of slides, a private beach, restaurants, pizzeria and kids club.

It’s home to the Flip Flop Activity Park which has mini-golf, adventure golf, table tennis and archery.

And you can do watersports too like diving, para-sailing, jet-skiing, and wind-surfing.

The Sun’s Alex Goss revealed more on their visit to Zadar, which despite being in August was surprisingly quiet, and joined plenty of excursions from river rafting to island hopping.

A five night stay for a family of four (room only) at the Zaton Holiday Resort during August starts from £298pp.

September

One month on and Rob suggests hopping over to Spain for September.

He says: “September’s got to be the best time to visit Spain’s hottest city, literally. The crowds are gone, but the heat is still there, and you’ll find some of the best tapas in Europe. S is for September, and Seville.”

The Patio de la Alameda in the middle of Seville’s Alameda de Hércules is a charming boutique hotel with three courtyards lined with orange trees.

There are 39 rooms that all come with private bathrooms, air con, plus there’s an on-site cafe for snacks and drinks.

Deputy Travel Editor Kara Godfrey is a big fan of Seville where she sipped on cheap wine and wandered around the royal palaces.

Two adults can stay in Patio de la Alameda (room only) for two nights from £218pp.

October

It’s cooling down in the UK, so you’ll have to go away for some seriously hot weather.

Rob says: “For 28C in October and glorious sunshine whilst everyone else is wearing jumpers at home, Cyprus is perfect for half-term or one last swim before winter”.

Ayia Napa might be known as the party part of Cyprus, but there’s a lot more to it (but you can party if you like).

It has budget-friendly holidays, the comparatively short travel time — roughly five hours from the UK.

With On the Beach you can stay at the Makronisos Village which is a colourful village-style resort with pools, palm trees and easy beach access.

A five night stay for a family of four (room only) at Makronisos Village starts from £238pp.

November

Descending further into winter means heading further afield – if guaranteed heat and activities like sea snorkelling is on your hit list then head to Egypt.

Sharm El Sheikh has been described as the “forgotten winter sun destination” but it’s is ideal for winter sun as it rarely drops below 20C, even in December and January.

Rob recommends the Falcon Hills Hotel which has two outdoor pools, kids club and spa.

Rob adds: “Falcon Hills is a low-key winner – think big pools, friendly staff and easy access to coral reefs that’ll blow your flippers off.”

Ten nights at Falcon Hills for two adults (bed & breakfast) starts from £740pp.

December

As for December, Rob said: “End the year in style in Dubai temperatures of 28C, beach clubs, rooftop cocktails, and it’s way cheaper than you’d expect if you book early.

“And seeing as we’re in Dubai for this one, let’s go big with the hotel too.”

Head to the Hampton by Hilton Marjan Island for a truly luxurious stay on Al Margan Island.

All rooms have either a sea or island view, there’s an elevated infinity pool with views of the Arabian Gulf, plenty of on-site restaurants where you can get barbecue to Pan-Asian style food.

There’s plenty to keep kids entertained, as well as the adults with a kitted out fitness centre, plenty of treatment rooms for massages and evening entertainment.

An all-inclusive stay for a family of four across five nights at the Hampton by Hilton Marjan Island starts from £945pp.

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