Members of the National Institute of Forensic Sciences organize packages of confiscated cocaine in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, on February 26 before incinerating 5,038 pounds of the drug after seizures made under the U.S.-led Operation Southern Spear, an international initiative to combat drug trafficking in Latin America. Photo by Orlando Barria/EPA
Feb. 27 (UPI) — The global cocaine market is the fastest-growing segment of the illicit drug trade, driven by rising production in South America and increasing demand in Africa and Asia, according to a United Nations report released this week.
Ecuador, meanwhile, has become one of the countries most affected by violence and the expansion of drug trafficking routes, the report said.
Global cocaine production exceeded 3,700 metric tons in 2023, a 34% increase compared with 2022, according to the control board.
The expansion is largely attributed to Colombia, where both the area under illicit coca cultivation and the production capacity of clandestine laboratories increased.
“The global cocaine market continues to expand and diversify,” the board said, warning that trafficking routes now reach “all regions of the world.”
While Western and Central Europe and North America remain the main destination markets, the report highlights rising consumption and seizures in Africa and parts of Asia.
In Africa, seizures rose 48% in 2023 compared with the previous year, which the report said reflects an expanding market rather than merely a transit region.
Between 2013 and 2023, the number of cocaine users worldwide increased from 17 million to 25 million, according to U.N. data.
Against this backdrop, Ecuador has emerged as a critical hub.
“In South America, the impact of increased cocaine trafficking has been felt particularly in Ecuador, which in recent years has experienced a wave of lethal violence caused by both local and transnational criminal groups,” the control board said.
Ecuadorian authorities seized more than 290 metric tons of cocaine in 2024, an unprecedented figure and approximately 30% higher than in 2023.
The surge in trafficking has coincided with a deterioration in security. The country recorded 6,964 violent deaths in 2024, with a homicide rate of 38.76 per 100,000 inhabitants, meaning the rate has quintupled over five years.
The report notes that Ecuador has become a major maritime export hub for cocaine shipments bound for the European Union.
In March 2025, Ecuadorian and European authorities dismantled an intercontinental criminal network that shipped tons of cocaine in maritime containers from South America to Europe.
In that operation, 73 metric tons of cocaine were seized in Ecuador and several European Union countries. Authorities arrested 14 people in Germany and Spain and 36 in the port city of Guayaquil, according to the report.
The control board also warned that traffickers are using increasingly sophisticated concealment methods to evade controls, including chemically altering cocaine to hinder detection during routine inspections, embedding the drug in plastics and textiles and using double-bottom compartments in legitimate goods.
Offshore deliveries coordinated through geolocation systems have also been seen.
As an example, the report cited the 2024 seizure of 13 metric tons of cocaine at the port of Algeciras in Spain, hidden in a shipment of bananas from Ecuador and described as the largest cocaine seizure in the country’s history.
The report further warns that sustained increases in production and the diversification of routes reflect a structural transformation of the global cocaine market, with criminal networks operating in an increasingly transnational manner and with greater logistical capacity.
The board stressed that the phenomenon is no longer limited to traditional production or consumption regions but now involves multiple continents at different stages of the drug trafficking chain.
The incident in Isfahan province follows crash of fighter jet in Hamadan province less than a week ago.
Published On 24 Feb 202624 Feb 2026
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Tehran, Iran – Two military pilots and two merchants have been killed after an army helicopter crashed into a fruit market in central Iran.
The crash on Tuesday morning occurred in Dorcheh, a town in Isfahan province, where the army has a major airbase, according to state media, which said the cause was likely a technical fault in the aircraft.
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Footage broadcast by state media from the scene of the crash showed the wreckage and emergency responders putting out the fire.
The Army Aviation Training Centre, in a statement, identified the killed soldiers as Colonel Hamed Sarvazad, the pilot; and his co-pilot, Major Mojtaba Kiani.
Two people working at their booths in the market were also reportedly killed on the scene after the helicopter crashed and caught fire.
The army centre said the cause of the crash is under investigation. The local judiciary chief, Asadollah Jafari, said he had also opened a case and dispatched investigators.
The crash comes less than a week after an Iranian Air Force fighter jet, reportedly an old United States-built F-4 model, crashed during a late-night training mission in the western province of Hamadan.
State media reported that one of the pilots was killed, but the other survived after successfully ejecting. The cause of that crash is under investigation, but state media said it was likely caused by a technical fault, as well.
Iran has been largely unable to upgrade its ageing fleet of aircraft, both military and civilian, as a result of decades-long sanctions imposed by the US and its allies.
Iran has purchased a number of fighter and training aircraft from Russia, and has been seeking to buy advanced Su-35 jets, but they have yet to be delivered by Moscow.
The crash of the helicopter took place amid rising tensions between the US and Iran before a new round of nuclear talks, which are set to take place in Geneva, Switzerland, on Thursday.
Iranian officials have warned that the country will not “bow down” to US pressure as Washington bolsters its military presence in the region.
In recent weeks, the US military has amassed hundreds of advanced fighter aircraft, both in military bases and on two aircraft carrier strike groups, as it threatens to strike Iran if it fails to reach a deal on its nuclear and missile programmes.
Tehran has rejected negotiations about its missiles, but has said an agreement may be possible to ensure it will never possess a nuclear weapon.
Saltwick Bay is a beautiful and dramatic stretch of sand just a short walk from Whitby and is steeped in history with fossils, shipwrecks and unrivalled sunrises
Sunrise on at Saltwick Bay beach(Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
Just a short distance from Whitby lies a breathtaking beach brimming with fossils, shipwrecks and unparalleled sunrises.
Saltwick Bay is just a two-hour drive from Huddersfield and a brisk five-minute trip from Whitby itself. The stunning and dramatic North-East coastline is a sight to behold in its own right, but it encircles a sandy stretch steeped in history.
On the brief 1.5-mile stroll from Whitby you’ll encounter the Gothic Bronte-esque ruins of Whitby Abbey and the charming harbour entrance.
This picturesque walk meanders past Whitby Holiday Park where steps descend to the beach. The Whitby Guide advises checking tide times to ensure you’re not stranded by the incoming tide blocking the steps on your return journey, reports Yorkshire Live.
Fossils.
The cliffs, prone to rock falls, loom over a bed of fossils concealed among shale and shingle. These spots are ideal for exploration, with numerous Ammonites nestled between the smooth stones.
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Famous for its dramatic landscapes, historic cities, hearty food, and rich cultural heritage Yorkshire is just waiting to be explored. Sykes Cottages has a large number of properties to choose from with prices from £31 per night.
In addition, you can discover jet, the gemstone for which Whitby is renowned.
This site of special scientific interest (SSSI) has yielded many scientific finds over the years, including the skeleton of a Teleosaurus Stenosaurus Bollensis unearthed in 1824, along with additional dinosaur footprints spotted on the beach. This prehistoric crocodile now resides at the Whitby museum.
Alum quarries.
The proximity of the fossils to the surface is due to the area’s rich mining heritage. The quarries have exposed the wealth of fossils that visitors now stumble upon.
The first alum mine was established by Thomas Challoner in the 16th century, following Henry VIII’s reformation of the UK after his marriage to Anne Boleyn.
This came about because Britain had previously imported alum from Italy, but the industry was under the Pope’s control – with whom Henry had severed ties.
When Italy stopped its supply, the UK was left without until 1649, when the vital chemical was discovered at Saltwick Bay. Under the guidance of Italian alum workers, Sir Hugh Chomley then opened a mine.
In 1673, authorisation was granted for a harbour to be constructed to transport the alum. By 1770, an alum house for the workers was built adjacent to the quarry.
However, mining ceased in 1791 when alum was replaced by aniline dyes.
Today, remnants of the mine still linger, with a ramp extending into the sea and patches of deep red shale where the shingle was extracted.
Sunrise and Sunset.
Saltwick Bay is famed for its breathtaking sunrises and sunsets. The rock pools reflect the vibrant hues of the golden sun, and from May to July, the rare ‘double sun’ phenomenon casts a second radiant orb over the sea.
Shipwrecks.
The grand Admiral Von Tromp trawler remains a significant part of local history, with the ship’s downfall forever etched on the beach.
The sturdy remains stand tall, and you can get up close to them on Saltwick Bay, stepping back in time to marvel at the maritime catastrophe.
On 30 June 1976, the Admiral Von Tromp set sail from Scarborough Harbour bound for Barnacle Bay. However, it never reached its destination, instead running aground on the rocks at Saltwick Bay.
The HMHS Rohilla also met its end here. In the early hours of 29 October 1914, with 229 souls aboard, the HMHS Rohilla struck the rocks at Saltwick Nab.
At the onset of World War I, it was en route to Dunkirk, tasked with navigating the perilous East Coast, evading German submarines and the treacherous North Sea coastlines.
Yet, it was Whitby’s rocks that sealed its fate, as the Rohilla shattered its bow upon them.
How do you comfort a man who has just watched years of his life turn to smoke?
Sulaiman Mustapha remained seated inside the mosque after the dawn prayer, long after others had left. He put both hands on his head as if trying to hold his brain in place. He could not speak. No wailing. No outburst. Just the stillness of a man whose world had collapsed overnight. Those around him tried to console him, but the words sounded distant, almost irrelevant.
Less than a month ago, Sulaiman bought a new motorcycle to make his trips to Singa Market in Kano, North West Nigeria, easier. For him, it was not just a bike. It was a milestone. For years, he had gone to the market with his brother as a worker, running errands for established traders. With time, he began handling purchases. Then he began trading in small quantities for himself. The profits were modest but steady.
The motorcycle symbolised a shift. It meant he would no longer spend heavily on transport. It meant more capital for his small shop. It meant growth. Then, in a matter of hours, fire erased that growth. Now it was metal frames and ash.
Hundreds of motorcycles, like the one Sulaiman bought recently, were burnt to ashes in the Singa Market fire. Photo: Aliyu Dahiru/HumAngle
On Saturday, Feb. 15, around 4 p.m., a fire broke out at Gidan Glass, a plaza at Singa Market. Witnesses say the fire spread quickly, leaping from shop to shop before traders could salvage much. It burned for two days. By the time it was contained, dozens of shops had been reduced to charred frames.
Sulaiman and his brother’s shop was among them.
When he sat in the mosque that morning, he was mourning years of hard work — the savings, the small profits he reinvested, and his mother’s inheritance. “After his grandfather died, the inheritance was shared,” his close friend, Abba Abubakar, told HumAngle. “His mother gave him her portion to grow the business.”
Now, everything is gone.
The fire that tore through Singa Market is the latest in a long line of infernos that have become almost routine in Kano markets. Within 48 hours, early estimates placed losses in billions of naira. But beyond the figures lies a deeper story: how recurring fires, weak emergency infrastructure, and structural neglect continue to threaten the livelihoods of thousands of small-scale traders who form the backbone of the city’s informal economy.
Sulaiman’s story is that of hundreds of traders whose stalls were destroyed. In markets like Singa, capital is built slowly from daily turnover and rarely backed by insurance. Many traders rely on family contributions, cooperative loans, or personal savings. A single disruption can undo a decade of effort.
For small-scale traders, the market is their safety net. It funds school fees, hospital bills, rent, and other family obligations. When the market burns, the consequences ripple far beyond the charred stalls.
By Monday afternoon, some traders had returned to sift through ashes, hoping to salvage metal frames or partially burned goods. Others simply stood in clusters, calculating debts they still owed suppliers.
There are still unanswered questions about what triggered the fire and whether preventive measures were in place. For now, what remains visible is the human toll.
The full extent of the damage and how traders will rebuild is still unfolding.
But how did it start?
Gidan Glass after the second day of the fire. Photo: Aliyu Dahiru/HumAngle.
Between sparks and sorrow
Around 3 p.m. that Saturday, Abba Abubakar noticed thick black smoke rising into the sky. The sight unsettled him immediately. Some weeks earlier, he had seen a similar column of smoke before a fire gutted Gidan Mazaf at the same Singa Market.
“But this one was very close,” he told HumAngle.
Abba is not a trader at Singa. He sells wrappers and garments at Abubakar Rimi Market, popularly known as Sabon Gari, just across the road. His fear was instinctive. Fires are not unfamiliar in that commercial district. When smoke appears, traders do not wait for confirmation. They imagine the worst.
“We rushed out of our shops and later realised it was solar panels burning on top of Gidan Glass,” he said. “By the time we got there, it had already consumed part of the upper floor, and the fire was raging.”
From another part of the neighbourhood, Muttaka Musa, who works in one of the affected stores, also saw the smoke. He had been at a nearby plaza known as Gidan Gwaggo Laraba when he looked up and saw the sky darken.
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“Immediately I got there, the fire had already finished one of our stores and had started catching the other,” he said. Muttaka said people had been warned when the fire first broke out. But warnings in markets often compete with denial. No one expected the flames would escalate to that scale.
Muttaka Musa said people had been warned when the fire first broke out. Photo: Aliyu Dahiru /HumAngle.
Auwal Ibrahim Gaya lost two shops in the blaze. He was performing the afternoon Asr prayer when he received the call. “When they told me the fire had started, I was at the mosque,” he said. “I rushed there, and when I saw it, I began reciting prayers. I said Allah is testing us, and we accept His decree.”
Faith, in moments like this, becomes both refuge and resignation.
As the fire intensified and traders failed to contain it, emergency services were called. But by then, the scene had drawn large crowds. Onlookers filled the narrow access roads, making it difficult for fire trucks to reach the core of the market.
One firefighter, who asked not to be named because he was not authorised to speak to the press, told HumAngle that “almost all the fire service trucks we have in Kano were mobilised. But the fire kept spreading from the top. It was moving across the upper structures, so it was difficult to control. If there had been a helicopter, it could have quenched it from above.”
An investigation by HumAngle found that the Nigerian Federal Fire Service does not currently operate firefighting helicopters. Announcements about acquiring one circulated between 2021 and 2024, but the purchase never materialised. The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), which previously had access to such support, is also reported to have non-functional aerial equipment.
As a result, even with the presence of the Federal Fire Service, NEMA officials, the Kano State Emergency Agency, and the state governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, at the scene, the fire burned for two days before it was finally largely subdued.
Scavengers looking for the damaged goods after the fire. Photo: Aliyu Dahiru/HumAngle
What causes market fires in Kano?
Market fires are not new in Kano. Almost every year, a section of the city’s commercial heart goes up in flames. Sometimes it is a cluster of stalls. Sometimes an entire block. The pattern has become disturbingly familiar. Traders rebuild. Business resumes. Then another fire breaks out.
In the two months of 2026 alone, at least five fire incidents have been recorded within the Kano metropolis. Four occurred in markets: Kofar Ruwa yan Katako, Gidan Mazaf Singa, Gidan Glass Singa, and near Abbatuwa cemetery. One affected a filling station along Madobi Road. For a city whose economy leans heavily on trade, these events are structural tremors.
A 2021 study by Sulaiman Yunus, an urban risk and disaster management researcher at Bayero University, Kano, documented 366 fire incidents between 1974 and 2017. On average, that translates to at least eight outbreaks annually in markets alone. The data suggests a chronic vulnerability embedded within Kano’s commercial architecture.
But what explains this cycle? Why do the fires persist, despite decades of losses?
Sulaiman found that outbreaks are most frequent in highly concentrated, densely built, older commercial hubs. Large central markets such as Kantin Kwari Market, Kasuwar Kurmi, and Sabon Gari Market were identified as particularly vulnerable.
These markets evolved long before modern urban planning standards. Stalls are packed tightly together. Extensions are added informally. Electrical wiring snakes across wooden beams and zinc roofs. Access routes are narrow, often clogged with traders, buyers, and transporters. When fire breaks out, it meets fuel.
The study notes that most affected markets lack functional fire hydrants and emergency suppression facilities. In many cases, traders rely on buckets of water or improvised extinguishers in the crucial first minutes. By the time fire trucks arrive, flames have often climbed to rooftops and leapt across adjoining structures.
Temporal analysis in Sulaiman’s study shows a clear seasonal pattern. Fire outbreaks peak during the dry season, particularly between November and March. The Harmattan months record the highest incidence rate because the air is drier and the winds harsher. Materials that might otherwise resist ignition become combustible.
Yet climate alone does not ignite markets.
The research found that electrical faults and power surges account for the majority of recorded incidents. Illegal connections and overloaded circuits were identified as primary ignition sources. In markets where dozens of traders tap into a single supply line to power freezers, grinding machines, bulbs, and charging points, the system is often stretched beyond capacity. Electricity, meant to enable commerce, becomes the spark that destroys it.
The Singa Market fire fits within this broader history. Its scale may be exceptional, but its underlying conditions are not. The questions raised in its aftermath echo those of previous disasters: Were safety standards enforced? Were electrical systems inspected? Were access routes kept clear?
For now, attention has shifted to relief. The Federal Government has approved a ₦5 billion intervention fund for traders, while the Progressive Governors’ Forum also donated ₦3 billion, signalling recognition of the magnitude of the loss. But compensation, even when fully disbursed, rarely mirrors destruction. For small-scale traders, relief funds often dissipate before reaching the lowest tiers. Many operate without formal registration, insurance, or documented inventories. Their losses exist in memory, not in audited balance sheets. A bag of rice here. Ten kegs of oil there. A motorcycle bought less than a month ago.
Billions of naira in pledges may soften the blow at a macro level. Yet, for the petty trader who relied on daily turnover to survive, recovery is measured not in billions but in whether he can reopen with even a fraction of his former stock.
In Kano’s markets, fire is no longer an anomaly but a recurring chapter in the city’s commercial story. Each outbreak exposes the same structural weaknesses. Each investigation repeats familiar findings.
And each time, traders return to rebuild in the same crowded corridors, under the same fragile wiring, hoping that this season’s wind will be kinder than the last
The unassuming market town in a corner of Herefordshire where Gloucestershire meets Wales was the inspiration behind Britain’s first ever travel guide
Ross-on-Wye – the birthplace of UK tourism
It’s an unassuming market town, nestled in the crook where Herefordshire meets Gloucestershire on the Welsh border.
I’d never have guessed that Ross-On-Wye is the birthplace of British tourism, and THE holiday destination of the late 18th and early 19th century. Nevertheless, given there is some suggestion we are experiencing a revival of romanticism (think Wuthering Heights and Bridgerton rather than the latest rom-com), it wouldn’t surprise me if there’s a surge of soul-seekers retracing the steps of their forbears across the UK’s most beloved natural spaces.
And what better way to explore Ross-on-Wye for myself than from the Hope & Anchor. Located right on the edge of the River Wye, it was just outside this inn that the boats would set off on their tour. So it seemed like the perfect place for my toddler and I to stop for the night as part of a trip organised by Visit Herefordshire.
Before we checked in for the night, we set off to explore a town peculiarly located on the northern edge of the Forest of Dean, less than 10 miles from the Welsh border, and six miles from Gloucestershire.
Stepping onto the streets of Ross-on-Wye, it doesn’t take a great imagination to be transported through time and see what inspired the Reverend William Gilpin to write Britain’s first ever travel guide. Published in 1782, Observations on the River Wye centres on a boat tour he took down the River Wye from Ross-on-Wye to Chepstow. The words of the pioneer of the “picturesque” adventure were so captivating that mimicking his journey soon became the fashionable thing to do – especially during the Napoleonic Wars, when taking part in the Grand Tour across continental Europe became impossible.
As market towns go, Ross-on-Wye is a fairly well-sized one, with a population of around 11,000 according to the 2021 census. However, 250 years after it was first made famous, it still carries an old-world charm, littered with stunning black-and-white timber-framed buildings and cute little independent shops where you can while away the afternoon browsing.
After working up an appetite, taking in the street scenes surrounding the prominent Market House building in the town centre, we trekked towards the High Street looking for Truffles Deli, which Visit Herefordshire had suggested we nab a quick bite from. Unfortunately, the highly-rated eatery promising delicious sandwiches, soups and cakes is closed on Sundays. Instead we followed directions on a chalkboard pointing us towards Maggie’s Place a few doors down.
Cosy and inviting, incense wafted through the interior as we stepped inside, admiring the open beams and brickwork. The café – which also welcomes four-legged friends – has only been open a number of months, and the owners have just started introducing a more expansive menu, including sandwiches and cakes.
“We’re trying to be completely locally sourced”, the owner tells me, saying the ham in the mouth-watering sandwich I bite into is from the delicatessen around the corner. He says they are working on bringing in crisps made nearby, and the bread has been locally made too.
And if the taste is anything to go by, lunch is terribly under-priced. I cannot get enough of the garlic spread in my ham sandwich, offering a smooth and creamy edge. I’m secretly grateful that my toddler is only interested in the packet of crisps I bought to share.
But the thing that impressed me most about Maggie’s is the coffee. I’m not exactly a coffee snob – my mornings start with instant – but if I’m buying a coffee, I do have certain standards. The owner serves me a Café Au Lait – his version of a flat white – and it’s the first coffee I have bought out in at least two years that I haven’t had to add sugar to. Rich, smooth, and bitter without the burn, I’ve finished it all too quickly.
After lunch, we take a wander up the hill towards The Royal Hotel. Some 200 years ago, this is where we would be staying before embarking on our boat trip as per Gilpin’s guidebook. And it’s easy to see why – the massive historic inn stands proudly above the town, boasting commanding views of the River Wye set to take your breath away.
Built on the foundations of a 13th-century Bishop’s Palace, the Greene King hotel has 42 bedrooms and can host weddings. But for now, we just admire the views before heading around the corner to The Prospect.
Nestled in the pleasure garden at the back of the graveyard of St Mary’s Church, the Prospect was laid out around 1700 by John Kyrle – also known as the ‘Man of Ross’. From here, you can see the famous horseshoe bend in the Wye and as far west as the Black Mountains.
Settling in for the night
If you look directly down from The Prospect, you can see the Hope & Anchor, just a small car park’s width from the water’s edge. Recent rainfall has seen the River Wye swell, pushing against its banks and saturating the paths and borders.
We check into our room for the night, a stunning ensuite with an impressive chandelier-type lighting, which captivates my little girl even more than the cartoons on the television. A little love seat adds a romantic touch to the room, which has gorgeous views of the river. I’d love to come back in the warmer months. After settling in, we wander downstairs to the dining room.
While it appears to be a cosy, neat, and rather unassuming little pub, there is nothing ordinary about what you put in your mouth at the Hope & Anchor. Even the wine I ordered for myself as a little holiday treat far exceeded expectations. I asked for a medium glass of red wine – and instead experienced a blast of rich, powerful flavours echoing with plum and black fruits with a woody finish (Vina Cerrada Rioja, £5.5 a small glass).
I ordered from the specials menu to start – whipped camembert brulee (£8) served on a bed of fig chutney, toasted sourdough and topped with hazelnut and apple. If you’re a fan of Camembert, this is not something to be missed. The tartness of the chutney offset the creamy richness of the cheese, topped with the satisfying crunch of the hazelnuts and apple sprinkled on top. The chutney lent an earthy flavour, and the whipped texture of the camembert offered a delightful change to both its cold and melted states.
This was followed by the garlic-and-thyme-roasted supreme of chicken (£19.50). Out of the kitchen came a massive, steaming plate of a roast dinner, served with garlic and rosemary roast potatoes, braised red cabbage puree, glazed parsnips, roasted heritage carrots, herb and apricot stuffing, seasonal greens, Yorkshire pudding and red wine gravy. I even had a generous bowl of cauliflower cheese on the side.
Now, as everyone knows, the true test of a roast dinner is in its potatoes. After all, no one can ever beat your mum’s, right? Although the Hope & Anchor certainly has given her a run for her money. Rather than the rubbery roasties we regularly forgive pubs for, these were perfectly crispy on the outside, and steaming and fluffy on the inside, representing the gold standard all roast potatoes aim for.
Partnered with beautifully sweet roasted vegetables, offset with the leafy seasonal greens, and one of the biggest Yorkshire puddings I’ve ever seen on a plate, there was no way I was going to finish the meal. The cauliflower cheese also made the perfect addition, not too cheesy, not too creamy, but just perfectly balanced and toasted on top. I couldn’t resist a second helping despite my groaning stomach.
Even the chicken nuggets and chips served with baked beans to my daughter were artistry on a plate. Succulent and juicy chunks of battered chicken served with crisp, hand-cut chips, I regretted not having room to help her finish them.
But what made the meal so truly special is how well we were looked after and attended to. From the forgiving fellow guests who stole smiles from my little girl to the attentive staff, it was a warm and welcoming atmosphere. I was particularly taken with the way staff overlooked the fact that my little gremlin left most of her meal and was more taken with licking tomato ketchup off a spoon. But then again, she is two, and clearly has no taste.
Gilpin’s footsteps
After a restful night, we popped into the neighbouring café for breakfast, eager to stock up for what I hoped would be another active morning. The Pavilion, which is also part of the Hope & Anchor, is a bright, welcome space with a chic, timeless interior.
It was the perfect setting to tuck into my eggs Royale for breakfast – and yes, the yolk was delightfully gooey with a delicious crunch from the toasted muffin.
We then made our way to the river’s edge, determined to follow in Gilpin’s footsteps despite the swollen Wye and saturated paths. I downloaded the Museum Without Walls App – Ross-on-Wye’s virtual museum, which uses AR (augmented reality) to impose pictures showing what a particular location would look like in days gone by. I point the app at the sign just outside the Hope & Anchor, and in an instant I can see the boats from days gone by preparing to set sail down the Wye towards Chepstow.
With determination, we set off, with every intention to at least reach where Wilton Bridge crosses the river some half a mile away, despite my daughter’s insistence on making friends with a couple of rather tame swans, and an alarming game of chase which took her frighteningly close to the swollen banks of the fast-flowing river.
Unfortunately, the path was simply too waterlogged to get even that far. Instead, we turned on our heels, considering taking a stop in the popular Riverside Inn in Wye Street as part of our return. This was the only downside of our trip – but one which sadly could not be helped.
Hopefully, next time, my companion will have long enough legs to make the journey on her own feet, too, perhaps when the weather is slightly less boggy.
What you need to know
The Hope & Anchor offers lunch and dinner options as well as overnight stays, while next door, The Pavilion restaurant and bar offers breakfast and cocktail masterclasses. There is also The Hut on the river’s edge, serving cakes, hot drinks and ice creams for those on the go. A one-night stay at the Hope & Anchor costs from £90 based on two sharing on a Bed and Breakfast basis. Find out more or book your visit here.
Follow Gilpin’s Wye Boat Tour by downloading the Museum Without Walls App here
Maggie’s Place at 24 High Street is open 10.30am-4.30pm Monday to Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, and from 12.30pm to 4.30pm on Sundays. Find out more here.
The Royal Hotel is open all year round with breakfast served between 7am and 11am Monday to Friday and 8am to 12pm on weekends. You can also eat in the evening until 9pm. It’s also dog-friendly. Find out more here.
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Japan faces a big turning point after conservatives secure a two-thirds parliamentary supermajority.
A decisive election outcome for Japan’s Liberal Democratic Party in early February has sparked renewed confidence among policymakers after years of leadership churn and macroeconomic pressures. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s landslide victory could bring stability to what may prove a major crossroads for Japan.
Speaking to delegates at the Japan Securities Summit at London’s Mansion House a week after the election, Finance Minister Satsuki Katayama linked a range of indicators — including returning GDP growth, nominal wages rising for the third year in a row, the Nikkei 225’s 2025 close above 50,000, and record investments fueling expansion — to demonstrable corporate governance progress, describing a shift from deflationary cost-cutting to bold investment that creates a “virtuous cycle of capital that supports economic growth.”
While GDP has improved only marginally (0.1% on a quarter-over-quarter and year-over-year basis in Q4 2025, missing expectations) and real wage growth remains negative as inflation outpaces gains, the significance at this crossroads lies less in the headline numbers than in the durability implied by renewed political stability.
“Japan is back,” Hiroshi Nakaso, chairman of FinCity.Tokyo, asserted. “We have seen CPI inflation above target for 45 months in a row, leaving deflation behind us at last.”
After multiple false starts over the past two decades, Nakaso believes the shift is now structural and insists that these developments underpin genuine macroeconomic change. As deputy governor of the Bank of Japan (2013–2018), he helped steer policy and market operations through a period of profound change, so he is perhaps uniquely positioned to make that assessment.
Governance reform is central to that claim. For a market long criticized for weak capital discipline and persistent cash hoarding, 92% of Prime Market-listed companies now fully disclose marks, marking a tangible change. This shows that exchange reforms and policy pressures have succeeded in pushing boards to address return on equity and shareholder rights.
Japan’s next chapter is also taking shape against a volatile global backdrop, amid recent US trade tensions and currency volatility. In this environment, Nakaso anticipates that global investors will “continue to diversify part of their portfolios away from the US dollar into other currencies, including the yen, and into other assets” — even if dollar supremacy is unlikely to be displaced anytime soon.
A February equities briefing from Goldman Sachs provides further context. The bank says greater cooperation between Tokyo and Washington, amid concerns about China’s dominance in critical supply chains, could provide an earnings tailwind. “A reindustrialization push could create meaningful opportunities for Japanese firms in sub-sectors such as industrial robotics and factory automation,” the note stated.
Echoing policymakers’ optimism about improving domestic dynamics, Goldman highlighted a “virtuous cycle” poised to lift domestic demand-related stocks. The bank cited rising wages and sustained price growth as key tailwinds.
Japan has experienced false dawns before, but with a renewed political mandate, improving economic indicators, and structural reforms advancing in parallel, the country’s policymakers are hoping to convert signs of recovery into sustained growth.
Drone-fired missiles have hit a market in central Sudan’s Kordofan region, killing at least 28 people and wounding dozens of others, a rights group says.
Emergency Lawyers, a group tracking violence against civilians, said in a statement on Monday that drones bombed the al-Safiya market in the town of Sodari in North Kordofan state.
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The bombing on Sunday occurred when the market was packed with people, “exacerbating the humanitarian tragedy”, it said, adding that the number of casualties is likely to rise.
“The attack occurred when the market was bustling with civilians, including women, children and the elderly,” the group said.
“The repeated use of drones to target populated areas shows a grave disregard for civilian lives and signals an escalation that threatens what remains of daily life in the province. Therefore, we demand an immediate halt to drone attacks by both sides of the conflict,” the statement said.
The area is currently the fiercest front line in the three-year-old war between the Sudanese army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
Sodari, a remote town where desert trade routes cross, is 230km (132 miles) northwest of el-Obeid, the capital of North Kordofan, which the RSF has been trying to encircle for months.
The Kordofan region has seen a surge in deadly drone attacks as both sides fight over the country’s vital east-west axis, which links the western RSF-held Darfur region, through el-Obeid, to the army-controlled capital, Khartoum, and the rest of Sudan.
After consolidating its hold on Darfur last year, the RSF has pushed east through the oil- and gold-rich Kordofan in an attempt to seize Sudan’s central corridor.
Emergency Lawyers said on X that the drones targeting the market on Sunday belonged to the army.
Two military officials, who spoke on condition of anonymity as they were not authorised to brief the media, told The Associated Press news agency that the army does not target civilian infrastructure and denied the attack.
A week ago, a drone close to the city of Rahad in North Kordofan hit a vehicle carrying displaced families, killing at least 24 people, including eight children. A day before the attack, a World Food Programme aid convoy was also hit by drones.
Violence ‘shocking in scale and brutality’
Fighting between the RSF and the Sudanese military erupted into a full-blown war across the country in April 2023. So far, at least 40,000 people have been killed and 12 million displaced, according to the World Health Organization.
Aid groups say the true death toll could be many times higher, as the fighting in vast and remote areas impedes access.
The United Nations human rights chief recently said that the Kordofan region remains “volatile and a focus of hostilities” as the warring parties vie for control of strategic areas.
Both sides have been accused of atrocities.
The UN Human Rights Office issued a report on Friday saying that more than 6,000 people were killed over three days when the RSF unleashed “a wave of intense violence… shocking in its scale and brutality” in Darfur in late October.
The RSF’s offensive to capture the city of el-Fasher, which used to be a military stronghold, in late October included widespread atrocities that amounted to war crimes and possible crimes against humanity, according to the UN.
The war has created the world’s largest hunger and displacement crisis. It has also effectively split the country in two, with the army holding the centre, north and east, while the RSF controls the west and, with its allies, parts of the south.
RSF General Mohammed Hamdan Dagalo, centre, greets a crowd during a rally in Nile River state in 2019 [Mahmoud Hjaj/AP]
The charming Georgian market town is packed with independent shops, cafés and a rich history dating back to the 1708 Great Fire – and it’s one to have on your staycation wishlist
Holt is full of independent shops(Image: Getty)
Strolling through the delightful market town of Holt, situated near the north Norfolk coastline, you’ll undoubtedly be captivated by its wealth of exquisitely maintained Georgian architecture.
Yet without a devastating blaze, the town’s appearance might have been entirely different, and its heritage extends much further back than the Georgian period. Holt featured in the 1086 Domesday Book, where it was recorded as a market town boasting five watermills and twelve plough teams, establishing it as a thriving and affluent community by medieval measures.
Its fortunes shifted dramatically on 1st May 1708 when The Great Fire of Holt swept through the town, its timber-framed medieval structures proving powerless against the inferno. In just three hours, a substantial portion of the town’s heritage vanished forever, with damage exceeding £11,000 reported – equivalent to more than £2.1 million today.
Contributions flooded in from throughout the nation and reconstruction commenced, though this time with a striking Georgian character that persists to the present day. Among the handful of structures surviving in an earlier architectural style is the Norman church of St Andrews.
Whilst its thatched roof was consumed by flames, the majority withstood the fire and it remains amongst the town’s most ancient buildings. Many of the watermills were decimated and never restored, but Letheringsett Watermill emerged in their stead in 1802, reports the Express.
It now holds the distinction of being Norfolk’s oldest operational watermill, producing flour to this day. Visitors can delve into the mill’s rich history or indulge in a homemade cake at the tearoom, made with locally sourced ingredients.
The town boasts a delightful high street dotted with Georgian buildings that have been transformed into quaint independent boutiques. Meander through the streets and you’ll stumble upon cosy cafés, historic pubs, and traditional tearooms.
From April to December, on the first Sunday of each month, Holt Sunday Market commandeers the town centre, featuring a plethora of traders peddling crafts, artisanal local food and drink, and global street food.
Holt also serves as a gateway to some of north Norfolk’s top attractions. Baconsthorpe Castle is merely a 10-minute drive away, offering free entry to explore the remnants of this once magnificent 15th-century castle.
Once the pride of a wealthy family, the castle was gradually sold off piece by piece as their fortunes dwindled, though parts of the edifice still stand.
A short journey will also take you to the Muckleburgh Military Collection. This family-run museum, located in a former Royal Artillery Anti-Aircraft training camp, is a treasure trove for military enthusiasts, housing an extensive collection of tanks, weaponry, and uniforms.
It’s a must-visit for any history aficionado. For those seeking somewhere distinctive to rest their heads, Byfords in the town centre is worth considering. Housed within a grade II listed building that ranks among Holt’s most historic, it offers 16 well-appointed bedrooms alongside a favoured restaurant downstairs dishing up seasonal fare.
Alternatively, secure accommodation at The Feathers, a Georgian coaching inn boasting 24 rooms – including dog-friendly options – and a welcoming pub below complete with an open fireplace.
Considered to be one of the UK’s best cities with Roman ruins and a historic market, I was expecting more, but after visiting at the weekend, I left feeling underwhelmed and wouldn’t rush back.
I found the city to be disappointing (Image: Alla Tsyganova via Getty Images)
I’m passionate about exploring fresh destinations across England, so when a particular city kept appearing on my social media timeline, I knew I had to make the trip. St Albans is a historic cathedral city in Hertfordshire, England, situated approximately 20 miles north of London.
Nowadays, it’s recognised as an appealing and wealthy commuter hub, yet its heritage extends back almost 2,000 years. Combining Roman archaeological remains and medieval thoroughfares with contemporary retail outlets, St Albans has evolved into one of the most historically significant cities in southeast England.
St Albans’ roots trace back to the Roman settlement of Verulamium, established in the 1st century AD and growing into one of Roman Britain’s largest urban centres.
The settlement served as a vital hub for commerce and administration, featuring temples, bathhouses and a theatre. Sections of the Roman fortifications and mosaics remain visible today, especially in and surrounding Verulamium Park.
The vestiges of this Roman community constitute a significant element of the city’s character and draw numerous tourists annually.
The city takes its name from St Alban, traditionally regarded as Britain’s first Christian martyr, who was put to death for sheltering a Christian priest.
A memorial erected in his memory eventually became St Albans Cathedral, which continues to be the city’s most renowned monument.
Currently, it’s a thriving and affluent city celebrated for its heritage, open spaces and excellent transport connections to London. I popped over to St Albans this past weekend and left feeling somewhat let down.
Given its stellar reputation, I’d anticipated something rather more refined, yet sections of the town centre appeared decidedly weary.
Certain streets looked decidedly shabby, whilst the uneven footpaths made strolling about considerably less enjoyable than I’d envisaged.
The town was absolutely heaving as well, which contributed to a feeling of disorder rather than character, and securing a parking spot proved far trickier than expected. This might have been down to it being market day.
I kicked off my morning at The Ivy for brekkie, what should have been a proper treat at a restaurant I previously adored. However, it failed to impress, with sluggish service and subpar fare.
That being said, alternative dining options were genuinely brilliant. I grabbed a bite at Japes, where the pizza was absolutely cracking, and also popped into Knoops for a decadent hot chocolate.
Regarding places to grab food, drinks and browse, the town absolutely excels, as it does with its historical offerings.
It’s also difficult to write off entirely a place boasting shops like Anthropologie, Oliver Bonas and Space NK – that trio alone typically indicates a respectable retail destination. Yet, notwithstanding that, I’m uncertain I’d be keen to return in the near future.
This small but mighty market town was put back on the map after it reopened its huge food market, and is now a bustling community attracting thousands of visitors
This market town has a thriving community and a fantastic food scene (Image: Manchester Evening News)
A small market town underwent a major transformation and is now a thriving hub for food, shopping and picture-postcard vistas.
The market town of Altrincham, just 30 minutes from Manchester, offers a serene escape from the bustling city. In a vibrant scene, Altrincham is brimming with independent shops, a booming food scene and family-friendly attractions, among its strong community feel and picturesque landscapes.
However, Altrincham wasn’t always a thriving hub that attracted visitors near and far. Just over a decade ago, it was a much quieter town, known simply as a rural area outside Manchester, with closed-down shops and a high street that lacked appeal to visitors.
But after the town reopened Altrincham Market in 2014 with a contemporary, trendy twist, it revamped the area. The Altrincham Market & Market House became “the catalyst for change” in the area and is said to have revived “the modern market town” by offering a huge culinary scene from independent eateries.
Altrincham has since welcomed thousands of visitors to its covered market, located in a stunning Grade II-listed building with steel beams and arched windows. Nestled in the heart of the town, the market has a spacious seating area where visitors can sample the delights from six kitchens and two bars while dining among friends.
Described as an “Independent foodie heaven”, there’s wood-fired pizza from Honest Crust, Tender Cow’s flat iron steak and chips, or delicious filling pies from Great North Pie Co. There’s also a selection of craft beers to enjoy at Jack in the Box, as well as beverages at Reserve Wines and Market House Coffee.
The food market is open Tuesday to Saturday, 9am to 10pm, and Sunday, 9am to 6pm. The market also offers a shopping area, with traders selling vintage fashion, homeware, artisan goods and crafts, which is open Friday 8am to 3pm, Saturday 8am to 4pm, and Sunday 10am to 4pm.
Offering an exceptional day out, one visitor shared on TripAdvisor: “Sitting down in the old market halls in Altrincham is an experience you don’t want to miss. Around the tables are several restaurants where you can order various types of food/drinks/desserts. Casual atmosphere, beautiful location, great food.”
“Absolutely fabulous. Such a choice of food, wine and the atmosphere is wonderful. Loved it. Definitely worth a visit. We will be back very soon,” a second shared. As a popular hotspot, one added: “Really like it here, loads of choice to eat, but sadly not many market stalls now. Mainly focused on food. Seating can be tough at peak times, but if you walk around the full site, there’s usually something available. There’s an app to order food, but it’s a bit rubbish, so I just go to the stall and order there.”
Among Altrincham’s landscapes are green spaces and parks, along with paths along the picturesque River Bollin. Just a short drive from the town centre, there’s also the National Trust Dunham Massey Hall & Gardens, set within sprawling grounds with a deer park and country manor that was temporarily used as the Stamford Military Hospital during World War I.
Elsewhere in Altrincham, there is a catalogue of high-street and independent shops, along with a number of eateries, from the Italian Damo’s, Papa Dutch for pancakes, tapas dishes from Porta and Nahm Prik for some delicious Thai. Plus, there are bars to catch up with friends, including Costello’s Bar and Cheshire Tap, with Kennedy’s Irish Bar proving popular for a night out.
For something a little cosier during a day out and to grab a hot drink, there’s Gran T’s Coffee House, Two Brothers Coffee, and Rise and Grind Cafe. Visitors certainly won’t go hungry during a trip to the charming town.
Altrincham is also home to a sprawling ice skating rink, Planet Ice, for a fun-packed day out, with public sessions available, and to the ice hockey team, Manchester Storm. The Altrincham Little Theatre and the Altrincham Garrick Theatre present stage productions, while Inch Arts offers workshops and various events, so there’s plenty to keep everyone entertained.
Do you have a travel story to share? Email webtravel@reachplc.com
A charming UK market town boasts, historic pubs, Europe’s largest secondhand bookstore, and affordable three-bedroom homes from £160,000 – as well as Harry Potter links
11:51, 12 Feb 2026Updated 11:53, 12 Feb 2026
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(Image: Getty)
Nestled in the Northumberland countryside lies a delightful market town, brimming with winding cobbled streets that lead to eccentric bookshops, independent boutiques, and snug cafés.
A bi-weekly market continues to draw visitors, while an imposing castle and steam railway keep the town’s intriguing history alive.
Despite its allure, Alnwick in Northumberland was often bypassed as a tourist spot until its castle featured in a globally renowned film. Alnwick Castle morphed into Hogwarts for the Harry Potterfilms, with Quidditch matches shot on its outer green and memorable scenes like the flying car crash unfolding within its grounds.
Regardless of whether you’re a Harry Potter fan, Alnwick Castle is a must-see. Dating back to the 12th-century, this majestic edifice is the second largest inhabited castle in England after Windsor, opening its gates to the public during the summer months.
In the town centre, remnants of Alnwick’s fortifications can be seen in the town walls, erected in the 15th century for protection. Bondgate Tower, with its robust stone walls and narrow tunnel, was heavily guarded during wartime.
However, while it served a purpose centuries ago, in today’s world, it tends to cause traffic congestion as only one vehicle at a time can navigate through its tight passage.
Harry Potter isn’t the only literary link the town can claim. It’s also home to Barter Books, one of Europe’s largest secondhand bookshops, housed within a former railway station.
Northumberland is famed for its rugged coastline, ancient castles and unspoiled natural beauty. Sykes Cottages has a range of places to stay starting from £38 per night
Among countless shelves of books, visitors will discover armchairs and crackling fireplaces, creating an inviting spot to while away an afternoon. Meanwhile, rival shop The Accidental Bookshop boasts what it claims is Britain’s tallest bookshop bookshelf, meaning staff assistance may be required for anything perched at the top.
Alnwick features numerous delightful independent shops tucked along the town’s winding narrow streets. Markets take place on Thursdays and Saturdays, with a well-attended farmers’ market on the final Friday of each month.
The cobbled Market Place transforms into a bustling hub of vibrant stalls offering fresh produce, flowers, crafts and food, with numerous vendors selling locally-made Northumberland goods.
An excellent way to explore the surrounding countryside is aboard the Aln Valley Railway, which operates seasonally. Comprising restored diesel and steam locomotives, it transports passengers on a 30-minute journey through lush landscapes.
Alnmouth Beach sits just 15 minutes away by car, offering an extensive sandy shoreline that welcomes dogs and provides various walking trails and birdwatching opportunities. After a full day of sightseeing, Alnwick boasts plenty of traditional, welcoming pubs where visitors can settle in for a pint or a hearty meal.
Despite its somewhat off-putting name, Dirty Bottles has an intriguing backstory rooted in local folklore. Trapped between two window panes are some aged, dusty bottles.
According to legend, more than two centuries ago, a publican met his demise whilst tampering with these bottles, prompting his widow to declare that anyone who disturbed them would meet a similar end. Consequently, the bottles remain safely encased, allowing patrons to savour traditional British pub grub or relax in the sunny beer garden without any supernatural worries.
Real ale enthusiasts flock to The John Bull Inn, celebrated for its impressive whisky collection. Tucked away on a quiet residential lane, it’s a true hidden treasure.
The Plough is another essential stop for those who appreciate historic watering holes, and whilst the interior has been updated, the façade retains its stunning 19th-century stonework and ornate carvings.
One might expect that residing in such a delightful town would command premium prices, yet whilst the UK’s average house price hovers around £300,000, Alnwick offers numerous three-bedroom properties for under £200,000. Current Rightmove listings feature a terraced house at £160,000 and another property complete with garage and driveway for £189,950, significantly undercutting the national average.
Of course instead of committing to a full move, you can just book a short break and enjoy everything Alnwick has to offer. Sykes Holiday Cottages has a wide array of beautiful cottages in and around Alnwick, while Lastminute.com can be a useful source for cheap hotels from £36 a night.
Adam Toms visited a classic British market town and was left shocked shortly after arriving.
Shania King-Soyza and Adam Toms
15:42, 11 Feb 2026
Shops lay eerily empty in Burgess Hill(Image: Adam Gerrard / Daily Express)
Some UK towns can feel like they are in a state of decay, leaving locals feeling their taxes are little better than money down the drain. Many high streets have become ghost towns, with only large chains or resilient independent businesses managing to survive.
Burgess Hill, once renowned for its thriving brick and tile-making industry and an annual St. John’s Sheep Fair, is nestled just north of the affluent coastal city of Brighton in Sussex. However, some locals claim it’s now a town in decline, teetering on the brink of oblivion.
The story they tell is one that will be familiar to many: once a bustling hub with its own market, attracting shoppers from far and wide to its array of local shops, it has since fallen into disrepair. And shortly after arriving in the town and paying for parking, journalist Adam Toms was confronted with what he described as a scene more reminiscent of The Last of Us than a typical English provincial town.
A desolate patch of land, eerily reminiscent of Margaret Thatcher’s infamous “walk in the wilderness”, was flanked by vacant retail units, their interiors hauntingly empty. Messages left by former staff were scrawled on the doors.
Adam went on to share: “A piece of barren land – which put me in mind of the famous photos of Margaret Thatcher’s ‘walk in the wilderness’ – was surrounded by empty retail units with ghostly, empty interiors. On their doors were messages written by staff who had since moved elsewhere.”
Signs declared “STORE CLOSING. EVERYTHING MUST GO” and “SALE 50%”. Windows had been boarded up after apparently being smashed by local youths, rainwater leaked from pipes, and metal fencing and red plastic barriers cordoned off a particularly dismal passageway.
He continued: “It wasn’t all this bad. Burgess Hill has a number of shops operating in its actual high street, and an amazing Creative Community Hub, which is run by volunteers and puts on skill-sharing activity sessions, including sewing and pottery.”
Run by volunteers, the hub hosts skill-sharing activities such as sewing and pottery. However, the locals he chatted with seemed somewhat embarrassed and disheartened, feeling their hometown was being eclipsed by more prosperous areas like Horsham.
“One woman, Susan Truran, 68, a retired revenue analyst, asked if I was lost when I explained who I was. People added that they have been let down by promises to improve the area,” said Adam.
The latest proposal aims to revamp the shopping district into a contemporary, lively retail and leisure hotspot, while also creating new homes and jobs. Developer New River is collaborating with Mid Sussex District Council on this project.
Planning permission has been granted for 50,000 square feet of fresh retail space, including a 21,000 square foot food store, 172 new residences and a 102-room hotel.
Jo Homan, a volunteer at the creative hub, stressed that Burgess Hill isn’t the only UK town facing challenges. She commented: “It’s pretty much the same everywhere, isn’t it? A lot of towns are like it.”
This is certainly accurate, and numerous other local authorities are pledging to spruce up their areas. Adam said that he has also visited Margate and Weston-super-Mare, where locals spoke of their towns’ urgent need for regeneration.
Folkestone in Kent presented a unique scenario, with businessman Sir Roger De Haan sharing details of his £100million investment that’s rejuvenating the area. And over in Hampshire, locals expressed their disappointment at the current state of Aldershot.
Back in Burgess Hill and Andrew Griffin, 56, an employee at an insurance firm, highlighted to Adam that it has room for growth, being home to major employers like American Express.
Last week, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer discussed Labour’s Pride in Place plan, announcing that around 40 new areas across England will have the power to decide where up to £20million is invested in their localities: “It is the same story in towns across the country. Youth clubs that have been abandoned, shops boarded up and high streets decimated,” he said.
“We must reverse the devastating decline in our communities and give power, agency and control to the very people who want to improve their community – those who have skin in the game. Through the Pride in Place Programme, communities – backed by the state and fired up by pride – will join the fight for national renewal and a Britain built for all.”
Interest in gold has skyrocketed in recent weeks, with the price of one ounce hitting an all time high of $5,600 on January 29 before settling back to just under $5,000 on Sunday.
As economic conditions fluctuate and geopolitical tensions rise, more individuals are seeking gold as a secure investment.
In this visual explainer, Al Jazeera breaks down how gold value is determined, the prices of gold coins in different markets, and the countries holding the largest reserves.
How is the value of gold measured?
Understanding the value of a gold item requires knowing its weight in troy ounces alongside its purity in karats.
(Al Jazeera)
Weight (in troy ounces)
The weight of gold and other precious metals like silver and platinum is commonly measured in troy ounces (oz t). One troy ounce is equal to 31.1035 grammes.
At $5,000 per troy ounce, 1 gramme of gold is worth about $160, and a standard 400-troy-ounce (12.44kg) gold bar costs $2m.
Troy ounces are different from regular ounces, which weigh 28.35 grammes and are used to measure everyday items including foods.
Purity (in karats)
Karat or carat (abbreviated as “K” or “ct”) measures the purity of a gold item. Pure gold is 24 karats, while lower karats such as 22, 18, and 9 indicate that the gold is mixed with less expensive metals like silver, copper, or zinc.
To determine the purity of gold, jewellers are required to stamp a number onto the item, such as 24K or a numeric value like 999, which indicates it is 99.9 percent pure. For example, 18K gold will typically have a stamp of 750, signifying that it is 75 percent pure.
Some typical values include:
24 karat – 99.9% purity – A deep orange colour, is very soft, never tarnishes and is most commonly used for investment coins or bars
22 karat – 91.6% purity – A rich orange colour, moderate durability, resists tarnishing and most often used for luxury jewellery
18 karat – 75% purity – A warm yellow colour, high durability, will have some dulling over time and most often used in fine jewellery
9 karat – 37.5%purity – A pale yellow colour, has the highest durability, dulls over time, used in affordable jewellery
Other karat amounts such as 14k (58.3% purity) and 10k (41.7% purity) are often sold in different markets around the world.
When you buy jewellery, the price usually depends on the day’s gold spot price, how much it costs to make, and any taxes.
If you know the item’s exact weight in grammes and the gold’s purity in karats, you can calculate the craftsmanship cost on top of that.
You typically cannot negotiate the spot gold price, but you can often haggle over the craftsmanship costs.
The price of gold has quadrupled over the past 10 years
Gold has been valued for thousands of years, serving various functions, from currency to jewellery. The precious metal is widely regarded as a safe haven asset, particularly in times of economic uncertainty or market volatility.
Up until 1971, the United States dollar was physically defined by a specific weight of gold. Under the classical gold standard, for nearly a century, from 1834 until 1933, you could walk into a bank and exchange $20 for an ounce of gold.
In 1933, amid the Great Depression, the price was raised to $35 per ounce to stimulate the economy.
In 1971, under President Richard Nixon, gold was decoupled from the dollar, and its price began to be determined by market forces.
Over the past 10 years, the price of gold has quadrupled from $1,250 in 2016 to around $5,000 today.
(Al Jazeera)
How is the price of gold determined in different countries?
Gold is priced globally based on the spot market, where one troy ounce is traded in US dollars on exchanges such as London and New York. Local prices vary as the dollar rate is converted into domestic currencies, and dealers add premiums for minting, distribution and demand.
Taxes and import duties further influence the final cost: India adds 3 percent GST, while the United Kingdom and United Arab Emirates impose none on gold investments.
Different countries produce unique gold bullion coins and bars, each with its own distinct features and cultural significance. Notable examples include the Gold Eagle from the US, the Gold Panda from China, and the Krugerrand from South Africa.
Which countries have the most gold reserves?
The US leads global gold reserves with 8,133 tonnes, nearly equal to the combined total of the next three countries. Germany is in second place with 3,350 tonnes, and Italy comes in third with 2,451 tonnes.
The graphic below shows the top 10 countries with the largest gold reserves.
it might not be on many people’s must-visit lists but people love it here.
Steffan Rhys Deputy Content Hub Director and Alycia McNamara
11:15, 08 Feb 2026
Locals say this buzzing market town with dozens of independent shops is ‘better than Manchester’(Image: Andy Stenning )
It might not be on many tourists’ must-visit lists but locals in this town say they can’t think of anywhere they’d rather live. Just half an hour from Sheffield, and around 90 minutes from Manchester, it’s home to a thriving community, a stunning market and a huge range of independent shops.
Meeting with residents and shop owners on a grey day, life in the town bustles on despite the gloomy weather. Chesterfield is known for its historic crooked church spire which dominates its skyline. In recent years, the town has begun to grow, with plenty more on the horizon.
Alec Chapman-Taylor, 32, works at the Cheese Factor. The business has become a core part of the town with people travelling into Chesterfield to purchase its cheese. There’s a constant flow of customers despite the dull weather.
He says: “There’s a new market square, that’s going to be like the new event square. It’s fantastic. It looks a lot better. I think it’s hard to be an independent business these days. I really do think it’s hard. Luckily for us, Simon, who owns the place, has been here since the 60s with his dad.
“I’ve worked in the town now for probably the last maybe 10 or 15 years. Chesterfield has this kind of unique position where we have the heritage here. So the town hall is quite old. Again, I’d say the market’s quite old and traditional. It’s been going on for a long time. A lot of people have family connections to the market too which makes it really special.”
He says one of the town’s strengths is its quirky independent shops and he estimates there are around 80 in Chesterfield.
He adds: “The Davidson family have been running a cheese store since the early 60s, I’ve only been working here for two years but I’ve lived in Chesterfield since the mid-90s and I love it. I really love it. I’ve lived in quite a few places including Manchester, but I always came back to Chesterfield. It’s the perfect size and it’s got anything you want. I just really enjoy it, the people are really nice. It’s got some fantastic bars. I’m bringing up a family here. All my brothers and sisters all live here too – we’ve moved our family from elsewhere to Chesterfield.”
In terms of improvements, he says he has always wanted to see more events – and those have started to be put on now too. He explains: “We had an animatronic dinosaurs day which was great for the kids and we had a 1940s market which people loved too.”
Out on the high street, plenty of shoppers are milling around, dipping in and out of shops. Janice Wallhead, 72, is out shopping for the day. She says: “I’ve lived here for 40 years and I like it here. I can walk into town and I do think the high street is good but I would like to see a bit more variation. We have lost a few things over the years – a few of the fashion shops. There’s been some money spent on improving the market but I still think there’s other things that need to be improved in town other than just the market.”
Bringing new life to a well-known pub, The Royal Oak, Patrick Hopman, 30 and Meg Hopman, 29, say they think Chesterfield has a lot to offer. The couple have become known among local business owners for defying the odds and making a success of the pub despite the current economic climate.
The two former school teachers say the pub has been a great success – and stepping inside, it’s not hard to see why. Walking through a small door on a side street, the building opens up once you’re inside. Bright orange walls are adorned with memorabilia which the pair have collected. From decorative plates to signs and posters, it’s a feast for the eyes.
At the other side of the bar is a church-like setting, not too dissimilar from the set of a film. There’s stained glass windows, high ceilings and dried flowers.
The couple have clearly established the pub as a place to visit and a destination in the town. Pat says: “We took a bit of a punt by buying this pub but we’ve been really pleasantly surprised. We’ve had it for a year but we reopened it in April last year.
“Chesterfield has a few really unique buildings, the Spire is the main one. But after that, our pub is on the list for sure – school trips actually come and sit outside on our benches.”
Pat grew up in London and Meg grew up in Devon but they say they now feel at home in Chesterfield. They both agree that, at first, they wanted to live in Sheffield but due to Chesterfield being cheaper, they opted for the town instead – with the thought that Sheffield is just a short drive away.
But after living in Chesterfield, they say that everything they need is there, and they find themselves visiting Sheffield less and less. Pat says: “We’re about five minutes’ drive from the Peak District. We’re perfectly situated for Sheffield, Derby and Nottingham. It’s less than two hours into London. We even went to Newcastle last weekend which is only two hours away as well. Location wise, it’s great.”
Pat adds: “There’s quite a lot of negativity around, especially when I’ve been to loads of meetings where everyone says the town centre’s dead. I think it’s complete rubbish – certainly from what we’ve seen.”
Locals say the town is one filled with creativity and life. Emily Bowman, 44, managing director at Junction Arts, which is a community based arts charity based in the town, is keen to have an array of artists paint murals on some of the town’s buildings to add colour and vibrancy.
Arriving at its new home, there’s paintings and sculptures dotted around as we head to the conference room to talk about Chesterfield’s future. On February 1, a total of 11 local creatives took up a spot in the building.
Emily says she has high hopes for the town. She told the Express: “All of our work is grassroots and up so we work really closely with our community and there’s a real sense of pride in where people are from, what our communities have been through.
“We’re an ex-mining community and ex-industrial so there’s been quite a lot of change but there is a real sense of history in our town. It echoes across our business and across the community.”
Emily says that in May, she is looking forward to the Chesterfield Make-Off which will see around 40 artists “making and creating”. She adds that it’s an opportunity for locals to get involved and “see what we’ve got on our doorstep and how brilliant it is”.
She adds: “It’s really important to recognise the huge ambition for the future of Chesterfield.” Chesterfield might not be your first thought for a day out, but it’s a place that is definitely putting itself on the map. With affordable homes and great transport connections to larger cities nearby, it’s no surprise that so many people don’t want to leave.
I visited the pretty little town with UK’s best high street – jam packed with 200 independent shops(Image: Jonathan Buckmaster)
It’s easy to see why this was named the best place to live in the UK. It’s got cobbled streets, Tudor buildings, colourful timber-framed houses, bustling market square, and range of independent businesses.
After several days of rain, the sun appeared just as I arrived to walk through the town chatting with locals enjoying the sunshine in the market square, exploring independent shops and admiring the timber-framed houses. This historic Essex town was named the best place to live in the UK by The Sunday Times in March 2025, topping a shortlist of 72 locations. Judges considered schools, transport, broadband speeds, mobile signals, access to green spaces, and the quality of the high street.
In stark contrast to so many dwindling high streets found across the country, Saffron Walden appears to be thriving with its bustling twice-weekly markets and a town centre that is estimated to be home to over 200 independent shops, cafés and restaurants. In 2024, the high street was also named among Britain’s top 32 by experts from Cheffins estate agents.
The town hosts its market on Tuesdays and Saturdays, a tradition dating back to 1141, and it’s a favourite spot for celebrity chef Jamie Oliver and his son River, with the celebrity chef having spoken in the past of visiting every Saturday. The TV star spoke highly of the community spirit and variety of produce at Saffron Walden Market, which was voted Best Small Outdoor Market in 2018.
He previously said: “I’m so lucky to have one of the best markets right on my doorstep. Saffron Walden is an absolute treasure trove of artisan suppliers, from Dan at Crystal Waters fishmongers to Saffron Wholefoods making incredible ingredients.
“Going every Saturday morning is the highlight of mine and River’s week – he loves it even more than me! We look at what’s in season, what looks good and what’s crying out to be cooked up! It’s a great way to connect with the local community and support the best of the best. I couldn’t love my local market more, make sure you go out and support yours.”
Felicity Norton, who has lived in Saffron Walden for more than 35 years, said the town’s charm has never faded. She said: “I’ve always loved Saffron Walden. It’s changed over the years, but it’s still a lovely, quiet little town.”
The town’s sense of place is rooted in both its history and stunning surroundings, from the grand stateliness of Audley End House and Gardens to peaceful walks through Bridge End Garden, a beautiful restored Victorian garden. The market town’s roots stretch back to at least the Neolithic period, evolving through a Roman-oBritish settlement and an Anglo-Saxon community before expanding under the Normans into a thriving medieval market centre, later gaining wealth and its distinctive name from the flourishing saffron industry of the 15th and 16th centuries.
Despite challenges facing high streets nationwide, Saffron Walden continues to attract a mix of independent retailers alongside well-known names such as Holland & Barrett. While some much-loved businesses and banks have closed over time, the town has welcomed a wave of new ventures bringing fresh energy.
Locals highlighted beloved stores including Between the Lines, Harts Bookshop, Talents gift shop and a number of independent clothing boutiques. Organic coffee shops like Esquires and Chater’s, a bakery, restaurant and cafe which even has its own on-site distillery, are among the places to stop and linger.
We were told by many local business owners that Chater’s must not be missed and that Oliver often goes there. It is known for its bold, seasonal cooking using the best local ingredients.
Among Ms Norton’s favourite spots is Neon Leo, described as “such a fun shop – they sell really different things in there”. Neon Leo is a rental and pre-loved fashion store founded by best friends Mandy Weetch and Abigail North in 2023. Located on Market Row, the shop is truly a world of its own, filled with colour, laughter and positivity. When entering the store, customers are greeted with a beautiful selection of clothing, sequins, glitter balls and art. Ms Weetch told the Express: “Saffron Walden’s got a huge amount of independent businesses.”
Ms North added: “The community is really active. People want to be part of it, whether you’re a business owner or a customer. We’ve never experienced that anywhere else.”
The pair said the town’s collaborative atmosphere sets it apart, with independent shops actively supporting one another and they also highlighted how Oliver comes every weekend to support local traders. Neon Leo hosts events emphasising confidence and self-expression through fashion, a movement they’ve dubbed “fashionism,” celebrating the power of women dressing how they want and defying outdated style rules, whether through small accessories or statement pieces.
“Ultimately, you should wear what you want, wear what you love,” Ms Weetch said.
Burtons Butchers is also beloved by local residents. The longstanding family-run shop serves premium meat products to customers, restaurants, hotels, and catering companies across East Anglia.
Since 2010, more than 1,000 butchers have closed across the UK, and the number of butchers in the UK has generally been shrinking in recent years, according to data sources such as Statista. The town also has a fishmongers, a beautiful independent bookshop and a library. Burtons Butchers was established in 1984 and serves a range of meats including venison sausages and local pork, beef and chicken sausages.
Andrew Northrop, manager of Burtons Butchers, said on market days there’s a great bustle, a “great energy” and “enthusiasm” from people for their town. “People like to see it do well and wish to support,” he added. Jamie Oliver often buys meat from the butchers and comes in with his family. They are proud to be his supplier and enjoy seeing him and having a chat.
Mr Northrop added: “You have to enjoy what you do, and when you’re passionate about it and enthusiastic people respond to that, and enjoy coming in here and the experience of coming in.”
Walmart has reached a $1 trillion market valuation, a first for the big-box retailer.
The company’s shares hit a high on Tuesday morning trade as the stock continues to soar on the news of a new CEO and looming trade negotiations with India, where the Arkansas-based company maintains a large presence both in supply chain and domestic markets within India. The stock was up 2.1 percent from the market open in midday trading.
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Walmart, which has 11,000 stores in 19 countries, joins a slate of nine corporate giants in the so-called trillion dollar club, including Nvidia, Apple, Alphabet, and Microsoft, among others. Amazon is the only other retailer that has broken the barrier and is now valued at $2.6 trillion.
Trade deal bump
On Monday, United States President Donald Trump announced a trade deal with India that would slash tariffs to 18 percent from 50 percent and that impacts Walmart, which has strategically shifted supply chain operations to India and away from China.
On Tuesday, in an interview with CNBC, US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer said that the White House is still ironing out the details of the deal, but that still hasn’t slowed Walmart’s stock from popping on the looming deal.
“We have an announcement of an India deal, but still no timeline about when it comes into effect and whether the secondary tariffs, the 25 percent linked to India’s purchase of Russian oil, when those would be removed, so I think there’s still a lot of questions,” economist Rachel Ziemba, founder of Ziemba Insights, told Al Jazeera.
While there are limited details on the specifics of the deal, markets are responding to tariffs likely to come down.
“Markets are, of course, forward-looking. I think this sort of reinforces a view in the marketplace that incremental tariffs will be less this year,” Ziemba said.
The big box retailer jumped from 2 percent of its global exports coming from India in 2018 to 25 percent in 2023, according to a Reuters review of import data in 2023. Walmart hopes to source $10bn in goods from India by next year.
At the time, the company also decreased its percentage of goods from China to 60 percent from 80 percent.
Walmart did not respond to Al Jazeera’s request for comment.
The Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO), a lobby for exporters, said the cut in US tariffs will significantly boost Indian exports, including textiles and apparel, putting them on par with Asian peers, such as Vietnam and Bangladesh.
According to data from ImportYeti, a platform that tracks import contracts for major companies, Walmart’s biggest import areas are in home fabrics, apparel and toys.
“Those are the products facing the highest tariffs, while consumer electronics and other categories have largely been shielded. If the India–US deal becomes a reality, it would put tariffs on Indian goods entering the US at roughly the same level as those from Southeast Asia, making that supply-chain realignment more attractive. You also highlight the importance of the Indian market,” Ziemba added.
While the trade deal is in focus, Walmart has also invested significantly in India domestically, as well, and holds an 80 percent stake in India’s e-commerce giant Flipkart.
C-suite changes
The surge also comes concurrently with a shake-up in the C-suite. On Monday, John Furner took over as Walmart’s chief executive, succeeding longtime CEO Doug McMillion who announced his retirement late last year.
Furner, who started at the company in a job stocking shelves, has climbed up the ladder. Most recently, he served as the CEO of Walmart US, where he focused on key initiatives driving growth, including curbside pick-up. Prior to that, he served as the CEO of Sam’s Club, Walmart’s wholesale chain.
Furner’s appointment comes as the company grows as an e-commerce giant and intends to double down in AI tech, healthcare services, e-commerce, and hybrid options with its brick-and-mortar footprint.
“As AI rapidly reshapes retail, we are centralizing our platforms to accelerate shared capabilities, freeing up our operating segments to be more focused on and closer to our customers and members,” Walmart said in a statement last month.
“Walmart is masterful at brick-and-mortar retail and remains highly competitive with Amazon. I love that because it shows consumerism is still alive and well. Five years ago, the narrative was the fall of the mall and the decline of retail. This confirms the opposite. Walmart also has a clear strategy for retaining consumers and managing the customer experience,” Brett Rose, CEO and founder of United National Consumer Suppliers (UNCS), a distributor that focuses on excess inventories, which it provides to more budget-friendly retailers, told Al Jazeera.
The tech-centric focus comes as e-commerce has grown for the company, which reported a 28 percent jump in e-commerce sales compared with the previous quarter. Walmart is slated to release its next earnings report on February 19.
“What you need to look at is that Walmart has successfully become a marketplace, not as big as Amazon, but big enough to give it a run for its money,” said Rose.
Stephanie Larivière, managing director and global head of Fixed Income, Currencies, and Commodities (FICC) Sales at Scotiabank—which was named the Global winner of Best FX Derivatives Provider—explains how a client-first philosophy and advanced structured solutions enable businesses to proactively manage uncertainty, effectively diversify risk, and maintain agility in fast-moving currency markets.
Global Finance: Last year began with elevated G7 foreign exchange volatility driven by US election results, followed by a spike in volatility tied to the Trump administration’s tariff announcements. Implied volatility eventually subsided. Against this backdrop, how has client demand evolved for structured FX solutions and derivatives that combine FX with interest rate and other exposures?
Stephanie Larivière: Tariffs and the resulting uncertainty around international trade were top of mind for clients throughout 2025. In the first half of the year, the US Dollar Index vaulted back toward the highs we saw during the pandemic, and there were fears that it would be driven even higher as we grappled with the prospect of a global recession, given the US administration’s push for increased global tariffs. We saw increased interest in hedging and the need for structured solutions from clients in these early months as US dollar buyers worried about a sustained surge in the index and the impact on their cash flows.
The outlook for exports to the US remains no less murky moving forward. As a result, client demand for structured FX solutions has only increased. Clients have focused on cost management and have incorporated flexibility into hedging programs via options-based solutions. By protecting existing profit margins while retaining the ability to participate in favorable moves in FX markets, these strategies have allowed clients to remain agile and adapt quickly to changing market conditions.
GF: Have you observed currency diversification strategies or increased activity in non-dollar crosses from your customer base?
Larivière: The uncertain outlook for international trade and dissenting views on the Federal Reserve Open Market Committee have led to increased demand from clients to protect against further potential dollar weakness. As we settle into a lower-volatility regime, we have seen interest in expressing views in non-dollar crosses and some rotation into international and emerging-market equity exposure.
One example was a strengthening Mexican peso as clients returned to expressing views via carry trades. We have also seen a weak Canadian dollar against other majors, driven by uncertainty over Canada’s budget, the size of the Carney government’s deficit, and questions about how the new US and Canadian administrations will work together. That said, the US dollar remains the dominant base currency in most commodities and currency trading.
GF: OTC interest rate derivative volumes have surged, nearly doubling for euro-denominated contracts and rising significantly for yen- and sterling-denominated contracts. How are clients adapting their strategies in response to this increased activity?
Larivière: There are a couple of factors at play here. Greater volatility in rates has caused volumes to surge. Central banks were also more in play over the second half of last year, which further contributed to this phenomenon. Both factors are responses to overexposure to the dollar and a shift to hedge against some of that exposure. We could see this continue to increase as larger institutional names right-size their exposure to the US.
GF: Are clients’ expectations changing around reporting transparency, multi-currency liquidity, and access to customized derivatives products?
Larivière: Clients are seeking bespoke hedging solutions built on a full suite of derivatives products across asset classes. These customized solutions are tailored to their unique company requirements, allowing clients to express market views while hedging underlying exposures. In addition to the increased flexibility these products provide, clients expect proactive advice that leverages expertise from sales, trading, strategy, and structuring teams.
At Scotiabank, we strive to provide thoughtful, well-coordinated ideas that help clients navigate the uncertainty of operating global businesses across borders in an uncertain international trade environment.
GF: What trends do you expect will shape FX and derivatives markets this year, particularly regarding volatility, market structure, and regulation?
Larivière: The Fed has embarked on a cutting cycle, though it remains unclear how deep the cuts will be. If yields continue to decline, we expect increased pressure on the dollar, leading to higher volatility. The FX market typically grows during periods of volatility; the shift away from yield-enhancement strategies toward a pickup in volatility should drive an increase in FX in 2026.
Another theme we are watching is the shifting regulatory landscape for digital assets. Regulatory changes that favor these assets will facilitate more interest and investment in the products.
Surrounded by the picturesque countryside and boasting a lively market centre, this charming mill town offers no shortage of activities for those keen to explore its many attractions.
It’s brimming with culture, history, and natural beauty
A charming market town in Lancashire boasts what’s been dubbed the ‘finest house and garden’ in the entire county – and the best part is, entry won’t cost you a penny.
Accrington, Lancashire’s well-kept secret, is packed with culture, stunning natural landscapes, and rich heritage, guaranteeing something special for every visitor who makes the journey. Nestled amongst rolling countryside and featuring a thriving market at its centre, this historic mill town offers no shortage of activities for those keen to explore its many attractions.
Among the standout destinations in Accrington is an art gallery housing the spectacular Tiffany Glass Collection, which art enthusiasts simply cannot miss.
The Haworth Art Gallery and Museum is an essential stop for lovers of art and history alike, and according to Visit Lancashire, it’s also where you’ll find ‘Lancashire’s finest house and garden’, reports Lancs Live.
Originally known as Hollins Hill, the Haworth Art Gallery and Museum was first constructed for siblings William and Anne Haworth, and has been carefully ‘designed in the Arts and Crafts style’.
Bequeathed by the brother and sister to serve as a museum, art gallery and public park for Accrington’s residents, this historically important building welcomes visitors throughout the year, with absolutely no admission fee.
Bursting with elaborate details and stunning features, every corner of this remarkable building has been ‘inspired by nature and made with a love of materials and craftsmanship’.
In its current incarnation, the property’s historic stables and coach house have been transformed into Artists’ Studios, providing workspace for numerous skilled artisans who create and sell their pieces on the gallery-museum’s prestigious premises.
Spanning nine acres of parkland, this historic site provides refuge in its rose garden, room to relax on sweeping lawns, or chances to wander through the woodland encircling this house-turned-gallery.
Guests can also enjoy a genuine dining experience at the venue’s licensed Gallery Kitchen, located in Haworth’s original Arts and Crafts dining room.
However, the standout attraction of the Haworth Art Gallery and Museum is arguably its stunning Tiffany Collection.
This assemblage of beautiful American glassware was presented to the town by Accrington-born Joseph Briggs, who, following an apprenticeship as an engraver, relocated to New York at just 17 years old.
Joseph worked at Tiffany for roughly 40 years, starting out as an errand boy before eventually ascending to managing director of the world-famous company.
This glassware collection, produced by the legendary designer Louis Comfort Tiffany, was dispatched by Joseph to Accrington in 1933. The iconic works remain on permanent public display throughout four themed galleries within the art venue.
One review of the art gallery and museum on Tripadvisor reads: “Beautiful art gallery with a wonderful collection of tiffany glass. The surrounding gardens are very pretty. Had a fantastic lunch in the cafe.”
Another satisfied visitor shared their experience: “Most interesting place which still has the feel of a large family home in the Arts and Crafts style with superb Tiffany exhibits and other items of interest. Excellent tea room and gift shop with pleasant gardens . We will definitely come again.”
Key information for visitors
Entry to the Haworth Art Gallery and Museum in Accrington, including parking at the gallery, is absolutely free. For 2026, the attraction welcomes visitors from January 1 to December 20, Wednesday through Sunday from 12pm to 4.30pm.
The Gallery Kitchen operates on the same days and dates, but timings differ slightly, with service starting from 11.30pm to 4.30pm. Last admission to the house is at 4pm and the building is closed over Christmas and New Year.
Must-see attractions in Accrington
For those keen to delve deeper into Accrington, Oswaldtwistle Mills is another must-see attraction in the town. This historic cotton mill played a crucial role during the Industrial Revolution and is the birthplace of the spinning Jenny.
Accrington also offers an array of splendid green spaces, including Oak Hill Park and Memorial Park situated in Great Harwood.
Those passionate about history and architecture shouldn’t miss the Victorian Market Hall during their stay – a landmark that opened for business in 1869 and continues to serve as the community’s beating heart – along with the Town Hall, a favourite venue for weddings and celebrations.
This delightful market town is also renowned for its yearly celebrations including the Soapbox Challenge and The Accrington Food Festival, offering visitors a delicious insight into the area’s culture and culinary scene.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, art aficionado, or someone simply wanting to enjoy the natural surroundings and local character, Accrington provides plenty to suit every preference, allowing guests to discover the town’s enchantment for themselves.
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Lancashire is known for its wide open skies, stunning landscapes and lively coastal resorts. Sykes Cottages has a wide range of self catering accommodation across the county from £42 a night.
