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It’s often named as one of the best places to live in the UK but this postcard-worthy village – used by Tim Burton for the Jonny Depp horror film Sleepy Hollow – has a chilling secret befitting of one of the movies it’s been used in

It is a charming, quintessential English village that often gets the nod by experts as being one of the prettiest and best places to live in the country.

Hambleden, nestled in a valley in Buckinghamshire, has attracted film crews time and time again thanks to its stunning scenery and Olde English allure. The Telegraph has ranked it among England’s 30 most beautiful villages, most recently as 2022.

The stunning landscapes at Culden Faw Estate help its character, spanning a vast 3,500 acres of mature beech woods, parkland, and sweeping chalk valleys. The estate incorporates the village within its picturesque panorama, reports Surrey Live. Another place you can step inside is the quirky British village where Liam Gallagher and Tom Cruise have been spotted.

For those who appreciate the finer things in life, the Chiltern Valley Winery and Brewery awaits, a proud recipient of the Travellers‘ Choice Award. Embark on an enchanting tour through the vineyards and seize the opportunity to sample a burgeoning array of wines.

Over at nearby Cliveden House, step into a world once inhabited by the elite and influential. Famed for its high-profile guests and notorious for centuries of salacious rumours and lavish celebrations, Cliveden has been a fixture since 1666.

What would a quaint country village be without its chic dining establishments frequented by celebrities? Nestled at the core of Hambleden lies The Stag and Huntsman, not your average gastropub but one that prides itself on “killer wallpaper” and also operates as a charming boutique hotel.

Hambleden, understandably, has been home to some big names. Deep Purple co-founder Jon Lord lived and died here, while 2003 Rugby World Cup winner Phil Vickery also spent some time as an inhabitant.

All that considered, it’s no wonder that sometimes visiting feels like stepping into a Midsomer Murders episode. The idyllic village has been used in a number of big productions for both television and cinema.

It has featured as the backdrop for Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, Into the Woods and Nanny McPhee Returns, and in TV series like Agatha Christie’s Poirot, and Amazon’s mini-series Good Omens with David Tennant. Most recently, Greys Anatomy stars Patrick Dempsey and Amy Adams were seen in the village during the shooting of Disney’s Enchanted sequel, Disenchanted, which was released in 2022.

Among the big-name directors who picked it out as a potential filming location, Tim Burton is arguably the biggest. He chose Hambleden as the place to shoot Johnny Depp horror film Sleepy Hollow.

But this tiny village has a dark, dark secret that fits the tone of Burton’s creepy classic. Back in 1912, archaeologists discovered the skeletal remains of 97 newborn infants at the historical Yewden Villa.

The bones were rediscovered stored in cigarette tins within a storage room at Chiltern Archaeology in 2008, triggering debate over the cause of their deaths. In 2010, a researcher proposed that the ancient Roman villa might have operated as a brothel where residents and workers committed infanticide across a 50-year span.

Alternative theories suggest it housed a cult that carried out horrific and brutal operations on the infants. Whatever the truth of this awful discovery, Hambleden remains an ideal place for a day out in the countryside packed with intrigue, history and fairytale charm.

A pretty UK seaside town is a popular destination for many – including French travellers and it’s easy to see why so many people flock to the coastal area during the summer

The UK has many charming towns – including this one, once thought to be a ‘prestigious’ holiday destination for French tourists. Folkestone in Kent is a town full of buzz and atmosphere, located in the south-east of England on the coast. Bustling with creative outlets, vast range of food, local beers and wines there is so much on offer for visitors.

With beautiful beaches and independent shops it’s a great destination for a long weekend away. Folkestone has also had some famous historic residents who once called it home, including Charles Dickens and Agatha Christie – which can all be found at the Folkestone museum.

READ MORE: I’m a regular to UK’s ‘poshest’ seaside town is just like Spain but I have mixed feelings about it

According to Visit South East England, Folkestone has seen lots of regeneration and development, with brand new shopping areas, leisure facilities and boutique hotels. The nearby designated coastal park of Samphire Hoe is a great place to wander, and is a haven for wild birds. The area’s maritime history is well preserved too, through ancient remains and architecture.

With an elegant clifftop promenade, a lower coastal park, a fishing harbour and Victorian cliff-tops, it’s an idyllic town by the beach and offers many things to do. The booming economy has grown in the past 10 years. It’s home to the world’s first multi-storey skatepark, a New York Highline-inspired garden walkway, leading to the revitalised Harbour Arm, an annual Pride, and LGBTQ+ bookshop and even mini golf on the beach.

It’s also home to the iconic Mermaid Beach, which boasts a glorious stretch of pristine goodness with an eye-catching coastline which is in the shape of a mermaid’s tail. There’s loads to do in Mermaid Beach if you do plan on taking a trip. You could check out the Folkestone Mermaid sculpture located on the beach.

There’s also the Lower Leas Coastal Park which is one of the most visited tourist spots. This award-winning park has one of the largest free adventure playground for children, as well as beautiful gardens and forest treks, perfect for the whole family.

Meanwhile Folkestone itself is gaining recognition as a hub for art and culture. There’s the Folkestone Triennial which is an international public art festival that scatters sculptures and other artistic creations throughout the town.

Folkestone is also one of the best connected towns on the coast, with direct rail links to London and is the ideal base for exploring the beautiful surrounding landscape – while still being easily accessible. Visit South East England recommended some of the best things to do in Folkestone including:

• Animal lovers should head straight for the Port Lympne Wild Animal Park. It’s a great place to see dozens of exotic and rare species.
• The nearby Kent Battle of Britain Museum has the best collection of Battle of Britain memorabilia of any war museum in the UK (including dozens of aircraft).
• Take a ride on the miniature steam trains Romney, Hythe and Dymchurch Railway.

One impressed visitor took to TripAdvisor and said: “Folkestone have really made a shining example of what to do with a cliff area. After leaving the amazing boardwalk (again, genius idea) on the beach we walked right up and beyond the playground. The accessibility to the beach in several places was brilliant.”

While another chimed: “This is such a beautiful walk between the cliff and the beach. Nice flower beds and landscaped arrangements. It was also protected from the wind, which was quite strong when we were there.”

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A former bustling resort loved by affluent holidaymakers now lies as a forsaken and crumbling ghost town.

Elkmont, Tennessee, was once a thriving town and popular holiday destination for wealthy tourists. The town now stands as an abandoned and derelict site within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Famed for its countless walking paths, the spectacular 80-foot Laurel Falls, and the yearly synchronous firefly display that illuminates the mountains, Elkmont is most celebrated as the “abandoned town of the Smokies”.

Initially called “Little River”, the US region covered 86,000 acres of terrain and was bought in 1901 by Colonel Wilson B. Townsend, who established the Little River Lumber company.

The building of a railway for his timber operations led to a surge of visitors and transformed this location into a sought-after holiday spot for well-heeled travellers, reports the Express.

Eventually, this weekend retreat developed into a permanent home for residents from Knoxville, and the settlement became recognised as Elkmont.

But when the Great Smoky Mountains National Park was formed in 1934, property owners faced an impossible choice.

They were forced to pick between selling their homes and moving away immediately, or disposing of their assets at a reduced price to the National Park Service in return for a lifelong lease. Homeowners continued to reside and negotiate lease renewals until the late 80s.

However, by 1992, most leases had expired, forcing residents to vacate their homes. This resulted in 70 historic buildings being abandoned, and the once bustling town of 1500 residents earned the eerie nickname Elkmont Ghost town.

With the decision that no one would return to Elkmont, questions arose about the fate of the buildings and the town after everyone’s departure.

While history buffs wanted to preserve Elkmont due to its century-long history, environmentalists pushed for the demolition of these cabins to allow the land to revert to its natural state.

The National Park Service also favoured demolition, but it was decided that 19 of the 74 structures would be listed on the National Register of Historic Places, preventing their destruction and ensuring their restoration. The remaining buildings were demolished.

Buried within the Tennessee mountains, haunting photographs show rotting and deteriorating cabins that have remained undisturbed for more than 40 years.

Today, visitors are invited to explore this deserted town in the Smoky Mountains at their own pace and witness structures slowly being reclaimed by nature.

As the photos reveal, you’ll encounter broken wooden floors, flaking paint, collapsed roofs, and vacant cabins, all reminiscent of houses from a horror film. You’ll also have the opportunity to tour the restored structures during your visit.

Reddit users have taken to the site to talk about Elkmont’s slow demise. One user said: “Ghost towns never cease to amaze me… like a little sliver forever frozen in time.” Another said it was “cool” and gave them “Friday the 13th vibes”.

Despite this, many walkers and tourists add this hidden treasure to their must-visit list in Tennessee, finding Elkmont a surprisingly tranquil spot. Maybe you’d fancy stepping back in time and exploring this ghost town for yourself.

Artists are formed by the spaces they spend time in — and in the case of countless Los Angeles artists, writers and musicians, that place was the city’s oldest restaurant and bar, Cole’s French Dip, which is slated to close on Aug. 2.

Founded in 1908 by Harry Cole in downtown’s historic Pacific Electric building, then the city’s primary railway transit hub, the legendary public house is credited with inventing the French dip sandwich after its chef dipped bread in au jus to soften it for a patron who had trouble chewing. (Note: Philippe the Original in Chinatown takes issue with this story, claiming full credit for the juicy culinary delight.)

The possibility of an apocryphal legend aside, Cole’s went on to become one of the very best bars in the area, attracting a solidly blue-collar crowd over the years, including the notoriously ribald, drunken poet Charles Bukowski. The restroom even sported a placard that read, “Charles Bukowski pissed here,” an unflinchingly literal claim to fame frequently mentioned in self-guided tours of literary L.A. (Barney’s Beanery in West Hollywood has a less off-color plaque at its bar in reference to Jim Morrison, who allegedly relieved himself on the spot without heading for the urinals.)

I like to think of Bukowski with a beer and a shot of whiskey in front of him, scribbling away on a napkin at the bar in Cole’s. I’ve done the same over the years, having discovered the bar in 1999 when I first moved to Los Angeles. Downtown was not on the up-and-up in those days, and Cole’s had fallen on hard times but was still beloved.

Cole’s French Dip in 1996.

(Con Keyes / Los Angeles Times)

My rock band played a few shows in its back room, and I fell in love with what was at the time a true dive bar — a place where the occasional unhoused patron spent his Social Security check alongside a smattering of unknown, paint-spattered artists who stopped by from nearby studios. I remember meeting a musician there one night who invited me and a friend to his 6th Street loft and showed me literally thousands of records stacked like a maze throughout the space, so high that you couldn’t see over them, so many that I wondered if he had space to sleep.

Cole’s was that kind of bar — a refuge for artists and misfits, a place that didn’t care what your story was as long as you had a good one.

The last time I went to Cole’s before downtown bar magnate Cedd Moses (artist Ed Moses’ son) bought it and restored it to its early 20th century glory, a rat ran over my foot as I sat at a torn, tufted banquette. I love a good dive (my husband proposed to me at the now-shuttered Brown Jug in San Francisco’s Tenderloin District), but that was a bridge too far, even for me.

Moses has long had a deep affinity for dive bars and, in the aughts, went about transforming and resurrecting a number of spaces in downtown L.A., including Cole’s, in ways that stayed true to their historic integrity. His 213 Nightlife Group (now called Pouring With Heart), was integral to downtown’s prepandemic boom.

That downtown is once again suffering from the kind of trouble and malaise that beset it in the ’80s and ’90s should be cause for great concern. On the bright side, it’s times like these when artists can again afford to move in. Maybe they can rally to save Cole’s.

I’m arts and culture writer Jessica Gelt, warning you that there is now often a line to get into Cole’s, but encouraging you to go anyway. Paying your respects to the classic institution is worth the wait. Bring a good book and a sketch pad.

Best bets: On our radar this week

Uma Thurman in “Kill Bill: The Whole Bloody Affair.”

(Andrew Cooper / Miramax Films)

‘Kill Bill: The Whole Bloody Affair’
Quentin Tarantino presents rare screenings of the complete version of his four-hour martial arts epic that brought together “Vol. 1” and “Vol. 2,” with additional flourishes. Uma Thurman stars as the Bride in a quest for revenge against the title character (David Carradine) and his band of assassins (Lucy Liu, Daryl Hannah, Vivica A. Fox and Michael Madsen). Added flair: It’s the filmmaker’s personal 35 mm print screened at the Cannes Film Festival in 2006, so it has French subtitles.
Friday-Tuesday, Thursday-July 28. Vista Theater, 4473 Sunset Drive. vistatheaterhollywood.com

Artemisia Gentileschi in Naples
Curator Davide Gasparotto discussses the Italian artist’s work from the period she spent in Naples beginning in 1630. Gentileschi quickly became one of the most in-demand painters in the region, and Gasparotto illustrates the large-scale works, including the newly restored “Hercules and Omphale,” she completed during this time.
2 p.m. Saturday. J. Paul Getty Museum, 1200 Getty Center Drive, L.A. getty.edu

George Strait performing in 2021.

(Jack Plunkett / Invision / AP)

George Strait
Chris Stapleton and Little Big Town join the country legend on this stadium tour in support of his latest album, “Cowboys and Dreamers.”
5:45 p.m. Saturday. SoFi Stadium, 1001 S. Stadium Drive, Inglewood. sofistadium.com

TaikoProject
The L.A.-based taiko drumming group marks its 25th anniversary with a one-night-only concert featuring its innovative percussion work, plus guests including the Grammy-winning Latinx group Quetzal and multi-instrument soloist Sumie Kaneko, performing vocals, on the koto and the shamisen.
7 p.m. Saturday. Walt Disney Concert Hall, 111 S. Grand Ave., downtown L.A. musiccenter.org

‘Bye Bye Tiberias’
Filmmaker Lina Soualem portrays four generations of Arab women, including her mother, actor Hiam Abbass, who carry the burden of history within them and deal with an evolving meaning of home. Preceded by a 1988 short, “Measures of Distance,” in which filmmaker Mona Hatoum combines letters from her mother in war-torn Beirut with layered images and voice to question stereotypes of Arab womanhood. Both films are part of the UCLA Film and Television Archive’s series “(Dis)placement: Fluctuations of Home.”
7:30 p.m. Saturday. Billy Wilder Theater, UCLA Hammer Museum, 10899 Wilshire Blvd., Westwood. hammer.ucla.edu

DeJuan Chirstopher and Kacie Rogers in the play “Berta, Berta.”

(Makela Yepez Photography)

‘Berta, Berta’
Andi Chapman directs the West Coast premiere of Angelica Chéri’s love story about a Black man seeking redemption in 1920s Mississippi. DeJuan Christopher and Kacie Rogers (“Furlough’s Paradise” at the Geffen) star.
July 19-Aug. 25; 8 p.m. Fridays, Saturdays and Mondays; 4 p.m. Sundays. The Echo Theater Company. Atwater Village Theatre, 3269 Casitas Ave. echotheatercompany.com

Catherine Hurlin as Giselle and Daniel Camargo as Albrecht in an American Ballet Theatre production of “Giselle.”

(Rosalie O’Connor)

Giselle
American Ballet Theatre dances this romantic tale set in the Rhineland forests where betrayal, revenge and forgiveness play out. With the Pacific Symphony.
7:30 p.m. Thursday and July 25; 2 and 7:30 p.m. July 26; 1 p.m. July 27. Segerstrom Center for the Arts, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa. scfta.org

The SoCal scene

Conductor Thomas Sondergard, left, applauds solo pianist Kirill Gerstein on opening night of the L.A Phil at the Hollywood Bowl on July 8, 2025.

(Gina Ferazzi / Los Angeles Times)

The Los Angeles Philharmonic opened its 103rd season at the Hollywood Bowl earlier this month, and all was not well, writes Times classical music critic Mark Swed, noting low attendance, the cancellation of highly anticipated shows featuring Gustavo Dudamel with the Simón Bolívar Symphony Orchestra and a general edginess that has taken root in the city since the intensive ICE raids began.

“‘A Beautiful Noise’ is a jukebox musical that understands the assignment,” begins Times theater critic Charles McNulty’s review of the show playing at the Hollywood Pantages Theatre through July 27. Anyone familiar with McNulty’s taste knows this is high praise coming from a critic who often doesn’t take a shine to the genre. This musical gets a pass because it exists simply to pay tribute to Neil Diamond’s beloved catalog with “glorious” singing of “American pop gold.” Former American Idol winner Nick Fradiani delivers a “thrilling vocal performance,” McNulty notes.

The New Hollywood String Quartet celebrated its 25th anniversary with a four-day festival at the Huntington’s Rothenberg Hall, and Swed was there to capture the scene. The festivities conjured the magic of the legendary studio musicians who first formed the quartet in the late 1930s. Classical music fans and lovers of cinematic scores didn’t always see eye to eye, but it was Hollywood that “produced the first notable American string quartet,” Swed writes.

McNulty also reviewed two shows in Theatricum Botanicum’s outdoor season: “The Seagull: Malibu” and “Strife,” both of which are reimagined in the American past. Ellen Geer directed the former, setting Chekhov’s play in the beach city of Malibu during the 1970s. Geer co-directs John Galsworthy’s 1909 social drama alongside Willow Geer — moving the action from the border of England and Wales to Pennsylvania in the 1890s. The plays are ambitious, if uneven, writes McNulty.

Culture news

Attendees surround the stage area where singer-musician Abraham Alexander is performing with his band at KCRW’s summer nights event at the Hammer Museum.

(Kailyn Brown / Los Angeles Times)

The Hammer Museum is back with its annual summer concert series, which is free as always. There are two upcoming shows: Very Be Careful with Healing Gems and DJ Eléanora, July 31; and Open Mike Eagle with Jordan Patterson and J.Rocc, Aug. 19.

Ann Philbin, former director and current director emeritus of the Hammer Museum at UCLA, was named this year’s Getty Prize recipient. She chose to donate its accompanying, pay-it-forward $500,000 grant to NPR and its Los Angeles member stations, KCRW and LAist.

The “Jesus Christ Superstar” casting news keeping coming. Earlier this week, it was announced that Josh Gad will play King Herod and Phillipa Soo will play Mary Magdalene in Andrew Lloyd Webber’s iconic musical, staged at the Hollywood Bowl in early August and starring Cynthia Erivo as Jesus and Adam Lambert as Judas.

The Carpenter Center announced its 2025–2026 season, including an evening with Sandra Bernhard and Mandy Patinkin in concert; a cabaret series that opens with Melissa Errico performing Barbra Streisand’s songbook; a dance series featuring Alonzo King LINES Ballet; a “Wow!” series that includes the Peking Acrobats; and a Sunday afternoon concert series with a special tribute to the songs of John Lennon and Harry Nilsson.

— Jessica Gelt

And last but not least

Hot cheese bread and meat pies? Count me in!

Llucmajor, a district in the south of the Balearic island, has found itself facing Birmingham-levels of uncollected waste, with residents complaining of terrible smells and rats

Residents in part of Majorca have become overwhelmed by great piles of stinking rubbish.

Llucmajor, a district in the south of the Balearic island, has found itself facing Birmingham-levels of uncollected waste. Great mounds of mouldy food, household rubbish, and general gunk have been building up in the streets.

The roasting hot southern Spanish weather is making things worse, as the sun heats up the black sacks, turning them into putrid whiff bombs. This is a particular problem in a neighbourhood that is home to a large poultry farm, controversial not just because of the intense pong of hot chicken waste, but also due to allegations that the animals live in poor conditions.

“This is not an isolated case. We residents are tired of excuses and the lack of response. We demand immediate solutions,” one resident told the Majorca Daily Bulletin.

READ MORE: Huge boost for Brits as five-months of airport strikes come to an end

Others have complained that the situation is not new and that Llucmajor has suffered such unpleasantness for far too long.

PSOE spokesperson Jaume Oliver said: “In Arenal, the population doubles starting July 15 due to tourists and second-home residents. The town hall knows that the same thing happens every year, and yet they don’t increase services. We are not ruling out taking legal action against the town hall.”

Another resident blamed a “systematic failure of the waste collection service” for not dealing with the rubbish build-up. “With this heat, the smell is unbearable, and at night there are tons of rats. It’s disgusting and scary,” they told Crónica Balear.

“We have been experiencing collection failures for months, but what has happened in recent days has surpassed all limits.”

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According to local reports, the council’s contracts with waste collection companies expired in May. The town hall has said that there will soon be a tender for the service. “In the meantime, FCC is obliged to provide the service until a new contract is awarded. The company is having problems with trucks and sick workers. In some areas, it is using leased vehicles.”

The situation in Llucmajor is similar to that in Birmingham, where residents are dealing with the consequences of more than 100 days of strikes by the city’s refuse collectors.

The Mirror’s Sanjeeta Bains visited Brum in June, stopping off at Balsall Heath, an inner-city area. There she found “a horrifying trail of stinking rubbish including food waste from local takeaways lying just yards from people’s front doors.”

“Flies swarmed around half-eaten burgers and dirty nappies, and even after getting back in the car, there was no escaping the foul smell. I had to fight the urge to drive home and get straight into the shower. And to make things worse, brazen fly-tippers have been emboldened to take advantage of the council chaos.”

A stunning but wildly remote UK island, which hasn’t been permanently inhabited since the 1960s, is so exclusive even the Beckhams have visited – but getting there isn’t easy

A remote island that was abandoned decades ago has seemingly rebranded itself as a tourist magnet for A-listers.

Stranded just off the east coast of Scotland, and a mere stone’s throw from the island of Jura, lies the idyllic isle of Scarba. Here, you’ll find an abundance of wildlife, including golden eagles and otters, sugar-like beaches, crystal clear waters, and a restorative sense of peace and quiet you never knew existed.

Offering uninterrupted views of the Hebrides, and enveloped in spooky myths, this island is set between the famous Corryvreckan whirlpool – which almost killed acclaimed writer George Orwell – and the notorious Grey Dogs tidal race. But the island is missing just one thing: people.

READ MORE: Abandoned UK airport that ‘sold for £1’ and the failed plan to bring it back

In fact, Scarba hasn’t been permanently inhabited since the 1960s. Harsh living conditions and economic hardship meant many residents flocked to the mainland or abroad in search for a better life, significantly declining the island’s population until nobody was left. It is now privately owned by Lord Richard Sandys and features just one primary residence: Kilmory Lodge.

Only accessible via private charter boat, seaplane or helicopter, this five-double-bedroom house has been modernly updated to resemble a ‘cosy traditional lodge’ with log burning stoves and modern interior. The lodge, together with a bothy in the south, are the only permanent buildings on the island.

“The lodge is let on a fully catered basis for parties of up to 8/10 guests. The chef will prepare a cooked breakfast each morning before the day’s activities, including packed lunches or you might have a barbecue on the beach instead, and back to the lodge for a three-course dinner,” property experts over at George Goldsmith explain. “The Kilmory chef works with only the freshest, local ingredients, including langoustine which is dropped off on the pier and are all part of the Scarba experience.”

Kilmory Lodge and its hard-to-reach location are both what makes the island so exclusive, opening up its appeal to celebrities wanting to get away from the paparazzi.

Earlier this year, Scarba was propelled under the tourist spotlight after football legend David Beckham celebrated his 50th birthday here with his sons. The family is believed to have spent a night at the bothy during a boy’s fishing trip, before tucking into ‘fresh scallops, blue lobster and crabs’ for dinner.

On social media, David documented their time in the no-thrills bothy, joking his children were ‘smiling on the inside’ after sharing a picture of them huddled around the log fire. “Doesn’t get any fresher than this,” he captioned an Instagram story as he cooked seafood on an outdoor BBQ.

It is not public knowledge how much Kilmory Lodge costs per night, but with its exclusive offerings and unique set up – it’s safe to say it won’t be cheap. You can enquire about visiting the property here.

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Even tourist-riddled areas in this country are starting to be impacted by crime and violence, in a huge blow to UK tourists desperate for guaranteed sunshine and pristine beaches

An increasingly popular tourist destination famed for its sugar-like beaches and turquoise waters has been ranked as one of the world’s most dangerous countries.

Lured in by huge all-inclusive resorts, a ubiquitously fascinating history, and scorching temperatures – Mexico has long been a beloved hotspot amongst UK holidaymakers. Sandwiched in between the US and Guatemala, the country witnessed a whopping 45.04 million international tourists last year, a 7.4 per cent spike compared to 2023.

Whether you’re a history buff dying to see the Aztec ruins, an adrenaline seeker wanting to dive with sharks, or a classic Brit wanting to chill on white sands with a good book and a margarita, there’s no denying Mexico’s mass appeal. But, is it actually a safe country to visit?

READ MORE: Brits start ‘snubbing’ Spain and head to sizzling 38C tourist hotspot instead

“The drug war in Mexico is one of the most violent conflicts on the planet with cartel activity permeating through many levels of the Mexican economy and society,” warns Global Guardian, who named Mexico as one of the most dangerous countries in the Americas – and in the world. “Cartel conflicts continue to drive violence across Mexico, including tourist areas previously less affected, such as Cancun, Tulum, and Puerto Vallarta.

“The current criminal landscape in Mexico is driven largely by the battle between the Cartel de Jalisco Nueva Generación (CJNG) and the Sinaloa Cartel (CDS), though three other major transnational criminal organizations (TCOs) — Los Zetas, Gulf Cartel, and Juarez Cartel — all contribute to high levels of violence. The border regions along with Tierra Caliente, which includes parts of Michoacán, Guerrero, and Mexico states should be avoided, if possible.”

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) currently advises against all but essential travel to parts of Mexico – including certain areas with the State of Baja California, State of Chihuahua, State of Sinaloa, State of Tamaulipas, State of Zacatecas, State of Colima, State of Jalisco, State of Michoacán, State of Guerrero, and State of Chiapas. This is not a blanket ban on the entirety of these areas, with exemptions for the city of Chihuahua, other municipalities, roads, and border crossings.

Under its ‘Safety and Security’ page, the FCDO warns that street crime is a ‘serious issue’ in major cities and tourist resort areas. “Many Mexican and foreign businesses choose to hire private security,” the body states. “You should: research your destination thoroughly, only travel during daylight hours when possible, monitor local media, and tell trusted contacts your travel plans.”

Pickpocketing and theft in Mexico are also common, while many criminals pose as police officers and try to fine or arrest you for no reason. In the past, these scams have heavily targeted travellers driving in rental cars. “Some genuine police officers have extorted money from tourists for alleged minor offences or traffic violations,” the FCDO added. “If this happens do not hand over money or your passport, ask for a copy of the fine, which is payable later, ask for ID, and try to note the officer’s name, badge number and patrol car number.”

Other warnings flagged by the FCDO include drink and food spiking, sexual assault, kidnapping, roadblocks, and unlicensed taxis assaulting passengers. While the Mexican government makes efforts to protect major tourist destinations including Cancun, Tulum, Cozumel, Los Cabos, and Playa del Carmen – criminals have still targeted Brits in these areas.

“Rival criminal gangs have clashed in popular Cancun tourist destinations and surrounding areas,” the FCDO explains. “Gangs have not targeted tourists, but violent incidents could affect anyone nearby. Since 2021, several shootings have affected tourists. Be very cautious after dark in downtown areas of Cancun, Tulum and Playa del Carmen. Stay in well-lit pedestrian streets and tourist zones. Follow advice from the local authorities and your tour operator.”

You can read the FCDO’s full travel advice for Mexico here.

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A PICTURESQUE town in Devon is home to one of the UK’s most beautiful beaches – complete without arcades and rides.

The Victorian town of Sidmouth in east Devon has a 200million-year-old coastline, being the gateway to the Jurassic Coast.

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What’s more is that the town is also loved by celebs including Jeremy Vine and Stephen Fry.

Fry stayed nearby the town when starring in the TV adaptation of Jeeves and Wooster.

As for Jeremy Vine, the radio presenter got married nearby and spends summers returning to the town.

In fact, when he set his first whodunnit novel called Murder on Line, in the town, he included a scene where a wave sweeps a radio station manager and her just-sacked DJ into the water together.

Vine noted in The Guardian: “What I love most about Sidmouth is that it feels like a town going places.

“It’s chintzy in places, drab in others, but it feels real.

“And real by the sea is a different kind of beauty.”

But celebrity visitors also extended to literary legends and royalty.

Jane Austen – famous for her novels Pride and Prejudice and Northanger Abbey – spent the summer of 1801 in Sidmouth.

The town had become a popular spot among high society due to its spa waters, mild climate and calming atmosphere.

During the summer Austen was in Sidmouth, she had a fling with a young man – however, it had a tragic end.

Her suitor caught typhus and died, ending the fleeting relationship.

Austen isn’t the only writer to have spent some time in the town – JRR Tolkien, the creator of Lord of the Rings and the Hobbit also holidayed at the seaside resort.

Tolkien used to stay at Kennaway House, which is rumoured to be the location where he wrote the first parts of Lord of the Rings.

And in the town itself, one of the pubs is believed to have inspired Aragon’s introduction.

Later, in April 1908, Beatrix Potter was also in Sidmouth.

On family holidays, the popular children’s writer would stay at the Hylton – where there is now even a plaque commemorating her stays.

Potter used to talk of the views, her local walks in the area and also the atmosphere – which helped her to complete the Tale of Little Pig Robinson.

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As for royalty, Queen Victoria (who at the time of visiting was Princess Alexandrina) also frequented the town.

In 1819, she stayed at Woolbrook Cottage – now known as the Royal Glen Hotel.

However, the holiday was not particularly happy as her father became ill and died.

For things to do in Sidmouth, there is plenty of choice, with the beach undoubtedly being the main attraction.

This year Sidmouth Town Beach was awarded a Blue Flag for the sixth year in a row – recognising the pebble beach as being under excellent management including beach safety and water quality.

Being amongst the cleanest beaches in the UK, it is a great spot to go for a dip when the sun is shining before heading into the town and grabbing an ice cream.

But if you aren’t done with exploring, you could always head over to Hill View along the coastal walk, which boast amazing views across the sea.

One particularly special thing about Sidmouth though, is that it doesn’t have any amusement arcades, loud sports bars or dodgy street food vendors.

Instead, the places that these would usually be have been filled with galleries and antiques shops, independent retailers and tearooms.

To get to the quaint town, from London it takes around four hours to drive.

Alternatively, also from London, you could hop on a train to Honiton, taking around two-and-a-half hours before catching a bus from Honiton to Sidmouth.

Britain’s ‘trendiest’ beach town is also set for biggest transformation in a decade as fresh plans unveiled.

Plus, a UK seaside town crowned top place in the world to take bored kids this summer.

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Southwold’s pristine beach makes it a hit for both families and those looking to dip their toes in the sea. Pier beach is flanked by a promenade that stretches all the way to the harbour

Like many coastal regions of the UK, the counties of Norfolk and Suffolk offer a plethora of seaside delights perfect for day trips and longer holidays. Southwold presents the picture-perfect British seaside outing for people of all ages and the Camping and Caravanning Club has even rated it as one of Britain’s top seaside towns.

Southwold’s safe, pristine beach makes it a hit for both families and those looking to dip their toes in the sea, earning it Blue Flag status and a Seaside Award in 2024. The town boasts two lovely beaches; Pier beach brims with striking beach huts while Denes beach – more secluded and favoured by windsurfers and canoeists – backs onto dunes and marshland.

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For added fun, Southwold Pier hosts quintessential seaside amusements, including an arcade bursting with vintage games and Tim Hunkin’s “eccentric” Under the Pier Show.

Hungry visitors can savour fare at various spots on the pier, be it the fish and chip shop, indulging in lunch or dinner at the Boardwalk restaurant with ocean views, or the Clockhouse for breakfast and homemade cakes, reports Cambridgeshire Live.

Pier beach is flanked by a promenade that stretches all the way to the harbour area, with the town centre just a short stroll away for those keen on a spot of shopping.

Southwold’s high street is brimming with independent shops and boutiques waiting to be discovered, including Pearls by the Sea, a family-run clothing shop that also offers gifts and accessories, and Squires of Southwold, a sweet shop and tea room boasting over 150 different types of sweets.

Little Gems, a popular greengrocers, is worth popping into if you’re after some fresh fruit for your trip or local products to take back home.

The shop was nominated in the regional Muddy Stilettos Awards for best farm shop in Cambridgeshire and Suffolk.

If you fancy a break from the beach, why not visit Southwold Museum? Housed in a quaint cottage, the museum offers interactive exhibitions and displays featuring fossil remains and information about Southwold’s transformation from a fishing community to a seaside resort.

Southwold is less than two hours’ drive from Cambridge via the A14. There’s a car park near the pier that charges £4 for a 10-hour stay, but there are other free parking spaces dotted around the town.

EASTENDERS actor Adam Woodyatt has been pictured looking loved up with a mystery woman.

The 56-year-old – who divorced his wife of 22 years in 2022 – was spotted leaving Pure Gym in London this afternoon.

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They shared a kiss after a sweaty workout before driving off together.

Adam split from his ex Beverley Sharp in 2022 and since then hasn’t been publicly linked to anyone else romantically.

On Friday Adam looked happy as he cosied up to the red-haired woman while wearing an all-black gym outfit.

Meanwhile his close friend wore a khaki jacket over a grey top and floral leggings.

Adam’s character Ian Beale debuted in 1985 during the show’s first-ever episode.

He played a major role in the BBC soap’s 40th anniversary episodes when his wife Cindy’s Christmas Day attacker was revealed.

They couple were reunited after Adam’s hiatus from the soap in 2021.

When he returned to Albert Square last year, Ian was reunited with his presumed dead wife Cindy (Michelle Collins), who was revealed to have been in witness protection.

Throughout his long tenure in Walford, Ian has been married six times to five women and had two failed engagements.

He has also fathered three children and acted as a father figure to much younger half-brother, Ben Mitchell.

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Defying the crime-riddled reputation of UK seaside resorts, this tiny coastal village – framed by its own island – has been crowned of the most relaxing spots in the country

Tucked away in the stunning South Devon coastline, where rolling countryside melts into turquoise seas – lies one huge anomaly. Bigbury-on-Sea boasts some of the UK’s very best scenery, from long stretches of golden sands to crystal clear waters. But, it was also branded one of the safest and most ‘relaxing’ resorts in the country.

The gong comes after UK holiday firm Parkdean Resorts compared coastal hotspots from across the UK, analysing factors such as cleanliness, green space, local safety, light and noise pollution, and population density. According to the Express, it crowned Bigbury-on-Sea the ultimate winner, thanks to its unspoilt nature (being surrounded by three areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty helps) and low crime rate.

READ MORE: ‘Stunning’ UK seaside town with three-mile beach sees house prices plummet by £13,000

Whether you’re after an active holiday filled with beach-side yoga, surfing, and paddle-boarding – or want to soak up the rays with a good book – this village has you sorted. There are also plenty of hiking trails of varying ability for those who can’t resist those Instagram-worthy views – or boat cruises for holidaymakers not wanting to break a sweat.

“One of the distinctive features of Bigbury-On-Sea Beach is the tidal causeway that connects the mainland to Burgh Island,” hailed Visit South Devon, the area’s official tourist board. “At low tide, visitors can walk across the sandy pathway, immersing themselves in the tranquil surroundings and enjoying breathtaking views of the surrounding coastline.

“As the tide rolls in, the sea covers the causeway, creating a sense of isolation for those on Burgh Island, accessible only by sea tractor or boat. It also boasts an award-winning hotel, elegant and rather genteel; it’s an ideal romantic retreat for couples.”

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Bigbury-on-Sea is some 234 miles from London, meaning you’ll need to endure a gruelling four hour-and-a-half-hour drive to get there. However, direct trains from the Big Smoke to Totnes slash two hours from the journey time. You’ll then have to get a 41-minute taxi ride.

If you’re flexible with dates, you can grab single adult fares for as little as £44. If you have a railcard, you’ll be able to get tickets for even cheaper.

Accommodation in Bigbury-on-Sea varies depending on your budget. For example, a weekend’s stay (Friday, June 6-8) at the four-star Swallow Barn will set you back £653, based on two adults sharing a two-bedroom holiday home. However, a one-bedroom apartment at Steepfield Studio costs a much more affordable £485 on the exact same dates.

*Prices based on Trainline and Booking.com listings at the time of writing.

What’s your favourite UK seaside resort? Let us know in the comments section below