From gorgeous Getxo to the City of Love, you won’t want to come home from these mint mini-breaks
Find foodie heaven near BilbaoCredit: Supplied by PR
SPAIN – Palacio Arriluce Hotel, Getxo
Commissioning Editor Martha Cliff and fiancée Lauren found foodie heaven near Bilbao.
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THE PAD
Check in and zone out at the Palacio Arriluce
Perched on a striking cliffside overlooking the Bay of Abra in Getxo and with a beauty of an outdoor pool, this 18th-century boutique gem sits in a palatial setting and offers the perfect blend of historical charm and contemporary elegance.
Craving vistas of the rolling Basque mountains? You’ve got it. Want to gaze at boats bobbing in the harbour? No problem. A city view more your vibe? It’s got that, too.
Be sure to eat breakfast – think other-worldly Spanish tortilla and Iberico ham – on the terrace to take full advantage.
Meanwhile, come dinner at Delaunay, try local specialities such as grilled kokotxas (hake chin) on stewed spider crab, £35, and Iberian pork shoulder with passionfruit, £31.
Make sure you’re there on a Thursday to join locals in Getxo for “pintxo pote”, a foodie’s dream bar crawl and Basque country tradition.
Restaurante Ixta Bide offers four pintxos (small savoury snacks) – our fave was pintxo de txaka, akin to a mini crab sandwich – and two vinos for a mere £9.
Just don’t expect to bag a seat! Wind your way up the steps of Algorta to reach Arrantzale and finish on its perfectly salted pork belly (Arrantzale.com).
While day-tripping, step into one of Bilbao’s oldest bars, Café Iruña, just a hop from Arbando metro station.
Dating back to 1903, the beautiful tiling is reason enough to visit, but coffee for just £1.75, is a big pull, too.
Or opt for a glass of the local txakoli white wine, £2.70, instead (Cafeirunabilbao.com).
DON’T MISS
The works inside Bilbao’s Guggenheim Museum are, of course, breathtaking, but the building itself and its surrounding sculptures – including Puppy, a massive dog made of flowers by American artist Jeff Koons – are worth the trip alone.
Fly to Bilbao from London Gatwick and Heathrow with Vueling from £56 return (Vueling.com).
FRANCE – Hôtel Dame des Arts, Paris
Creative Director Mark Hayman and wife Margaret fell for cocktails and culture in the French capital.
Fall for cocktails and culture in the French capitalCredit: Getty Images
THE PAD
Rest easy at Hôtel Dame des ArtsCredit: LUDOVIC BALAY
This sleek bolt-hole in the city’s Latin Quarter has shaken off its Holiday Inn past to channel full Hollywood glamour.
Think rich woods, bamboo accents and pretty palms, with rooms that feel like film sets, thanks to glass dividers, velvet finishes and luxe bathrooms made for long soaks.
Downstairs, Pimpan serves up bold Franco-Mexican fusions on a leafy terrace – highlights include beef tartare with piquillos, £12.50, lamb shoulder with harissa, £25, and hibiscus-poached pear, £11.
But the real scene-stealer is the rooftop bar, where 360-degree skyline views stretch from the Eiffel Tower to Sacré Cœur – even locals come here for the vistas.
Order a Spritz del Arte (Aperol, mango liqueur, rum and prosecco), £17, or the punchy Uno Mas margarita, £14, pop on your biggest sunglasses and watch the city turn blush at sunset.
There’s also a sauna and a gym kitted out with sculptural wooden equipment for those partial to a designer workout.
EXPLORE
Explore the history of Notre-DameCredit: Getty Images
First time in Paris? Glide down the Seine aboard the Batobus – this hop-on-hop-off riverboat is a relaxing (and photogenic) way to tick off major sights like the Musée d’Orsay and the Louvre.
For more treasure-hunting, swing by the flea market off Rue du Faubourg Saint-Antoine – a weekend haven of vintage mirrors, mid-century ceramics and nostalgic postcards.
There’s no entry fee, just bring cash and your best haggling game.
Then head to the Panthéon, a neoclassical gem where Voltaire, Rousseau and Marie Curie lie in dramatic crypts beneath a rooftop dome offering jaw-dropping views.
Lively, retro-chic Brasserie Dubillot’s espresso martinis, £10.50, are a must, but equally good is the sausage and mash with truffle sauce, £16, steak-frites, £21, and the perfect crème brûlée, £8 (Lanouvellegarde.com/brasserie-dubillot).
Craving something casual? PNY serves next-level burgers with aged beef, brioche buns and toppings like smoked cheddar and pickled jalapeños, from £11.50 (Pnyburger.com).
Or just nab a pavement perch at Café Saint-André for a croque monsieur, £10.50, a glass of sancerre, £7, and some world-class people-watching.
Double rooms at Hôtel Dame des Arts cost from £226 per night (Damedesarts.com).
Psst…
Fancy something a little more party? Rixos Premium Dubai JBR sits in one of the UAE city’s buzziest neighbourhoods, with captivating views of Ain Dubai, the world’s biggest ferris wheel.
Suave rooms come with huge tubs, rain showers and espresso machines, from £304 per night (Rixos.com).
Rixos Premium Dubai JBR sits in one of the UAE city’s buzziest neighbourhoodsCredit: SuppliedThe suave rooms have captivating views of Ain Dubai, the world’s biggest ferris wheelCredit: SuppliedHead to Aussie beach club Byron Bathers for great foodCredit: Byron Bathers Club/Instagram
Downstairs is Azure Beach Club with its large pool, pumping soundtrack, outdoor gym and private beach (Azure-beach.com/dubai).
The breakfast buffet is, in true Dubai style, eye-poppingly big – you can even blend your own fresh peanut butter.
Plus, you’re half an hour’s cab ride from the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa, for that classic Dubai selfie – viewing platform visits cost from £37 per person (Burjkhalifa.ae).
When you’re craving a chilled day, head to Aussie beach club Byron Bathers for lobster linguine, £37, and burrata pizza, £17, with excellent Whitsunday spritzes – an exquisite blend of grapefruit bitters, strawberry shrub, pink grapefruit, citrus vodka, Aperol and prosecco, £14 (Byronbathers.com).
WE all love a city break, but heading to the main European capitals can give your bank balance a battering.
The Serbian capital of Belgrade offers all the history and grandeur for a fraction of the price.
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Belgrade offers all the history and grandeur for a European city break at a fraction of the priceCredit: GettyThe Serbian capital is one of Europe’s oldest cities, pictured Republic SquareCredit: Getty
With beers or coffees in local cafes from £1.50, meals with wine in a decent restaurant for £15 and hotels from £40 a night, it’s perfect for those tourists looking to expand their city-break horizons without spending a fortune.
WHY SHOULD I GO? One of Europe’s oldest cities, its architecture tells its history from Roman and Ottoman to Austro-Hungarian and Yugoslav.
Catch up on its recent history at the Museum of Yugoslavia, home to the tomb of Josip Broz Tito, founder of socialist Yugoslavia. The Belgrade Fortress is free to enter and offers panoramic views of the Danube and Sava rivers.
Elsewhere, the Sava Lake offers water sports, tennis and cycling, with restaurants and bars perched on the shore.
STREETS MADE FOR WALKING? Public transport in Belgrade is free, making it easy to hop on and off the buses and trams. However, walking around the city means you can stop and rest at the traditional kafanas (coffee houses).
The main cobbled street in the city — Skadarlija — is regarded as the city’s “bohemian quarter” and is a great spot to enjoy a drink.
A walking tour of the Red Star Belgrade football stadium is not to be missed, even for those not familiar with the club. Take a walk through the famous tunnel which at 787ft is the longest pre-match walk in Europe.
Fans can get a taste of what the players go through as they are transformed into gladiators with the thumping chants from the stands.
ANYTHING FOR THE BUCKET LIST? Tara National Park is a four-hour drive from the city for those wanting to escape the hustle.
Lake Perucac offers floating houses that allow guests to wake up on the water and look over to the border of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
The national park has the largest population of brown bears in Serbia.
Also worth a hike is the path up to the viewpoint known as Banjska Stena, soaring above the Drina River.
Kayaking down the river also gives the best views of the worldfamous Drina River House.
The hut, first built by swimmers wanting to rest, is perched on a rock in the middle of the water and has been rebuilt multiple times. It’s definitely an Insta-worthy picture.
WHERE SHOULD I EAT? Belgrade is without doubt a city for meat eaters. For an authentic lunch, head to Drama Cevapi in the heart of Belgrade’s Dorcol district for grilled meat and fresh flatbreads.
Tramways help visitors speed between the sightsCredit: GettySplash some cash in the city centreCredit: Getty
The cevapi — minced sausages with a mix of beef, lamb or pork — come in generous portions of five from £3, and flatbreads just 45p. If you fancy a smarter dinner, Iva New Balkan Cuisine shows off traditional Balkan recipes with a stylish twist.
Beef ribs with a celery and apple cream, honey and mustard seed glaze or pork belly with kohlrabi salad, pickled beetroot and crackling will set you back just over £10.
The main cobbled street in the city — Skadarlija — is regarded as the city’s ‘bohemian quarter’ and is a great spot to enjoy a drink
Meanwhile, Restoran Uzelac is a short taxi ride from the city centre where spit-roasted lamb is served by the kilo.
WHERE SHOULD I STAY? There’s a bed for every budget.
The Stari Grad district is best for a central location and the five-star Square Nine is great for those with deep pockets.
The gold-fronted building gives a cool oasis from the busy streets and features a wellness spa with a 59ft swimming pool.
Expect luxury linen and cashmere throws, with rooms from £300 a night. But there are also some fantastic budget options.
Boatel Charlie is set on the Danube. It is a chic barge with contemporary interiors that has rooms from £43 a night.
The neighbourhood of Dorcol is the place to stay to meet the locals, with multiple coffee shops and markets.
Tuck into some street snacksCredit: GettyThe Sun’s Emily kayaking down the Drina RiverCredit: Supplied
GO: Belgrade
GETTING THERE: Fly to Belgrade from Luton with Wizz Air, with fares from £27 one way, and from Heathrow with Air Serbia, with fares from £80 one way. See wizzair.co.uk and airserbia.com.
STAYING THERE: Rooms at Square Nine (squarenine.rs) from £300 a night. Rooms at Boatel Charlie (boatelcharlie.com) from £43 a night. Rooms at Smokvica B&B (smokvica.rs) from £80 a night.
On Facebook, one user shared how they had only been using the pass for six months and had already saved €200 (£175.75).
One TikTok user called ‘adventurewithells’, who subscribes to the pass, shared a video on TikTok sharing how over the course of a year, she travelled on 28 flights to 14 countries.
This included some of her dream destinations that are usually more expensive to travel to, such as the Maldives (which has since been scrapped by Wizz Air), Saudi Arabia, Dubai, Tromso, Chisinau and Athens.
She did mention that there was some cons to the pass though, including that it is hard to coordinate with family or friends if they don’t have the pass themselves.
There is also no guarantee that certain routes will be available and travellers need to be very flexible and happy to visit anywhere.
She said: “If you live near a big Wizz hub such as London and are happy to have a bit of fun and see where you end up, then go for it.
“If you want to be able to plan in advance and only visit specific locations then skip.”
She also added that she will be renewing, as it is “more than worth it”.
In another video, the creator revealed that travellers can only book between 72 hours and three hours before the departure of the flight.
Sometimes this can be risky, as if you are returning to the UK more than 72 hours from the time of booking your flight out to a destination, you won’t be able to book it.
She advised: “Say you want to go on a weekend flight, you can book the outbound for Friday, on Tuesday, but the Sunday return flight you wouldn’t be able to book until the Thursday.
“So you either have to hedge your bets on the return becoming available or what I would do is wait until the Thursday, so I can book both legs at the same time and that way I know I am guaranteed a return.”
If there are multiple routes, then it is a little easier as there is more choice for booking flights.
Those who subscribe to the pass can fly to a number of different destinationsCredit: AFP
Senior chief commercial and operations officer, Michael Delehant said: “Despite a challenging economic environment where most prices are rising, we’ve continued to provide affordable travel options, offering customers the opportunity to travel for the cost of a pair of sneakers.
“This reflects our ambition to redefine the meaning of low-cost travel.
“We believe affordable prices should be matched with high quality operations and customer service – and we’re delivering.
The airline also confirmed that this summer was its best on record, with improvements across on-time performance, flight completion and turnaround times – with 1,000 flights a day.
He added: “We’re not only making improvements; we’re going further and expanding our offering for customers.
“In the past six months we’ve introduced 250 new routes and launched a range of exciting new products which are already revolutionising the customer experience.”
LONDON hotel prices can cost more than a holiday abroad these days, but one very central spot costs just £110 a night for two people – and it is all-inclusive.
Trudging through puddles from Marble Arch, I was on my way to one of the capital’s thousands of hotels – just this one had a big promise.
One hotel in London claims to be all-inclusive from just £110 a night – so I tested it outCredit: Cyann FieldingOne of the bedrooms at the Z hotelCredit: Z HOTEL
Z Hotels Gloucester Place offers a room package that is all-inclusive – soft drinks, alcoholic drinks, snacks, lunch, dinner… you name it.
The hotel chain has 12 locations across London and there is a room for each type of budget.
For example, you could stay in a Z Inside Double (which means no window) for as little as £50 in Victoria.
Family rooms at the City site cost from just £100 a night.
And then of course, there is the Z Club room, exclusively at the Gloucester Place hotel – where each room features a king-size bed and all drinks and food are included in the price of the room.
This sounded to good to be true, so, of course, I had to put it to the test.
The evening all-inclusive food and drink experience
Just a 10-minute walk from Marble Arch tube station or five-minutes from Baker Street, Z Hotels Gloucester Place takes up six townhouses.
Guests can check-in at 3pm, which is exactly what I did to make the most of the offering and I kicked it off by immediately helping myself to my first can of Fanta.
After exploring my room (more on this later), I headed down to the kitchen area, that also doubles up as the reception for the building.
Upon arriving, the hotel was serving afternoon tea with different sweet treats and savory croissantsCredit: Cyann FieldingI had a good selection and then was told I could also order from the day’s menuCredit: Cyann FieldingI opted for a salmon and sauerkraut ciabatta and then in the evening had several plates of cheese and crackers, accompanied by some sauvignon blancCredit: Cyann Fielding
With my laptop under one arm and fluffy jumper under the other, I was ready to make myself comfortable and tuck into as many different food and drinks as I could.
At 3pm, they were offering an afternoon tea selection, which included ham and cheese croissants and a cake stand featuring macaroons, brownies, flapjacks, and pots of tiramisu.
I picked up a handful of sweet treats, including one of the croissants and helped myself to my second can of Fanta.
There was also a made to order selection on a dinner menu, which featured wide choice of sandwiches and salads.
I ordered the salmon and sauerkraut ciabatta.
The food was simple, but it was all tasty and reminded me of the sandwiches and cakes I usually pick up in one of London’s many hipster coffee shops.
However, this would usually set me back £18 for a coffee, pastry or cake and sandwich.
Just an hour later a selection of cheeses and crackers, with grapes, chutney, houmous and olives appeared.
I helped myself to the black bomber cheddar, with a dollop of caramelised onion chutney and some crackers.
For second helping I went for some olives, camembert and crackers.
Over the course of another hour, I went back and forth helping myself to the selection.
I was the only one there – though this was unusual according to the host.
As I enjoyed my plates of food, I also sipped on a glass of sauvignon blanc – one of three white wines on offer.
If I wanted to, I could have also opted for red wine, cider or beer as well.
After a couple of glasses, it was time for bed – with a suitably full belly.
The breakfast all-inclusive food and drink experience
When morning arrived, a breakfast spread included toast, flatbreads with omelette and bacon, fresh fruit, Greek yogurt and pastries.
I opted for some cold apple juice, and helped myself to a coffee, plus a tomato and cheese flatbread, some fruit compote and yogurt.
Before leaving I even grabbed a banana and coffee in a takeaway cup for the road.
But what was the room like?
Given the low price tag, wasn’t expecting plush velvet curtains and Egyptian cotton sheets but I was left pleasantly surprised on entering my room.
The ceilings where high, making the space feel bigger – not that the room was small.
Dominating the room, the king-size bed was inviting and the en-suite was also large, with a powerful shower and stacks of white towels.
Tucked around one corner of my room was an extension, where I found a hidden wardrobe equipped with hangers, an iron and ironing board and a hairdryer.
Two large windows looked out onto the pretty Marylebone street below with iconic red London buses occasionally driving past.
One of the bedside tables doubled up as a tea and coffee station, with a small kettle and two bottles of water, plus sachets of oat (and normal) milk – a lovely detail.
The room also had a TV with the Sky channels on and switches by the bed included USB ports, both UK and EU plug sockets and a dimmer switch for the light.
All in all, the room was simplistic, neat and clean – the only thing I would say it was missing was a floor length mirror.
The morning buffet was also impressive, with fresh fruit, pastries, yogurt, toast and filled flatbreadsCredit: Cyann FieldingAnd the room wasn’t bad either – it was nice and spacious and felt comparative to a Travelodge or Premier InnCredit: Cyann FieldingThere was even oat milk in my coffee and tea station – something I don’t even get normally in pricier hotelsCredit: Cyann FieldingGuests can dine in a kitchen area that also doubles up as the reception, and help themselves to drinks such as Fanta, Coke and teas and coffeeCredit: Cyann Fielding
Do you get bang for your buck?
This hotel is a genuine find.
Completely switching up the typical London hotel experience, Z Hotels Gloucester Place gives some serious value for money.
Totting up all the food I had going off of the average prices usually found for each item in London, I spent way more than my £55-a-head price tag.
In comparison to other budget hotels, I would say the room itself is on par with Travelodge and Premier Inn.
But these hotels in the same area cost considerably more.
For example, to stay at Travelodge Marylebone during the last couple weeks of October, you’ll likely pay £170.99 – and that is before WiFi (an additional £3.50) and breakfast (an additional £5.95 per person per day).
Hub by Premier Inn in Soho is similar, with a one night stay on October 28 costing £199 for a standard room – you would then need to add £8 each for breakfast.
If heading to London and wanting somewhere central to stay, I wouldn’t look at any other option – Z Hotels Gloucester Place really is the best offer out there – and you definitely won’t regret the gooey and decadent brownies.
With the price technically sitting at £55 per head, I definitely got my money’s worthCredit: Cyann FieldingIt’s a must-book if heading to LondonCredit: Cyann Fielding
TUNISIA has been named both the cheapest winter sun destination and a top spot for 2026 holidays.
Known for its stunning blue coasts, vibrant souks and fascinating architecture, Tunisia in Africa boasts temperatures of up to 18C during the winter months.
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Thomas Cook has named Tunisia as one of the best-value winter sun destinationsCredit: Getty
For example, 15 nights with Thomas Cook at the 4* Hotel Riviera in Port El Kantaoui, Tunisia on an all-inclusive basis costs from just £370 per person.
And this includes flights, heading out from London Southend on December 6.
Tunisia has also been named one of the top 25 destinations for 2026 by Lonely Planet with it particularly being best for desert and coast adventures.
Lonely Planet stated: “It’s interesting times in Tunisia, a country that feels suspended between an old world of romantic Roman ruins and vintage beach resorts and a new world of possibilities birthed by the Arab Spring in 2011.”
It added that the country has a “laid-back atmosphere”.
Despite being small, Tunisia has a lot to boast about.
With around 40 per cent of the country being covered by the Sahara desert – the largest hot desert in the world – visitors can do many desert-based activities such as going on camel rides or quad bike journeys.
You could even grab a sandboard and surf down the dunes.
Or simply go for a walk and take in the landscape, especially in places like Matmata – a number of cave dwellings carved into the rock – which is where some of Star Wars was filmed.
And Lonely Planet has also named the country in its top 25 places to visit in 2026 listCredit: Getty
The capital of the country is Tunis and can be found in the north.
The city sits along Lake Tunis and is home to a centuries-old medina, which is a UNESCO-listed labyrinth of alleys making up the city’s historic quarter.
Here you will find a number of artisan shops, souks and traditional cafes.
You can also see the world’s largest and finest collection of Roman mosaics at the Bardo Museum, which is inside a 15th century palace.
Away from the capital, Tunisia also has many quaint villages to explore.
For example, Sidi Bou Said is a clifftop village that overlooks the Mediterranean sea and is famous for its white-and-blue buildings.
Just off of the mainland is also an island called Djerba, that recently got new flights from the UK.
EasyJet is launching flights from both London Luton and Manchester for as little as £81 return.
On the island, travellers can head to Houmt Souk, home to Bazaar Houmt Souk, which sells lots of fresh food and cute souvenirs.
The island also boasts a number of olive groves, including some that date back to the Roman Empire.
When looking for a place to eat, make sure to keep an eye out for traditional Tunisian dishes.
These include brik – a type of crispy fried pastry – and chorba – a tomato-based soup.
Food won’t set you back much either, with a mid-range three-course restaurant meal for two people usually costing around £15.33.
And to enjoy a beer with your meal, you are likely to spend between £1.28 and £1.72.
Hotel prices range in Tunisia, depending on where you are and what kind of place you are looking to stay at.
For example, Sousse Pearl Marriott Resort & Spa costs from around £55 per night.
The hotel features 222 guest rooms and suites, a wide range of restaurants and bars and a number of outdoor pools.
Alternatively, in Tunis, you could stay at El Mouradi Gammarth from around £76 per night.
The hotel sits on the beach and boasts a five-star rating.
Tunisia is known for its white and blue buildings and warm weatherCredit: GettyAnd food and drink is super cheap in the country, with beers costing as little as £1.28Credit: Alamy
And of course, it has indoor and outdoor pools.
You can fly to various destinations across the country – for example, return flights to Enfidha cost from £38 per person in December.
Also in December, return flights from the UK to Djerba cost from £39 per person and return flights to Tunis cost from £89 per person.
Flight times vary from two hours and 50 minutes for Tunis and Enfidha, to around three hours and 20 minutes for Djerba.
Lonely Planet has also named the ‘Cuba of Europe’ as one of the top trending destinations for 2026.
If you are looking for more winter sun destination inspiration, one Sun reporter visited the hidden winter sun island that feels like stepping back to the 1990s – with £1 beers and free moped rides.
FANCY a cheeky city break but worried about blowing the Christmas budget?
Fear not, because we’ve rounded up nine of the best bucket-list weekenders, where you can find bargain flights, as well as cheap eats and drinks during the winter months.
Here are some of the best places that are just an hour from the UKCredit: Getty
Bilbao, Spain
For easily accessible winter warmth on a shoestring budget, Bilbao is a good bet.
This is the Spanish city that is the fastest to reach from the UK, with flights from Bristol taking approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes (and under two hours from London).
It’s also super affordable to reach – one-way Gatwick fares with Vueling Airlines start at just £23 this autumn.
Step off the plane and into double-digit temperatures – the city has highs of 17C in November, ideal for exploring the lush green landscape and Casco Viejo, the picturesque old town with its cobblestone streets and medieval architecture.
You can’t visit without indulging in pintxos – the Basque version of tapas – paired with the local tipple Kalimotxo (red wine and cola).
Cheap but highly-rated pintxos bars include local hangout Bar Bacaicoa, known for its griddled mushrooms, £1.13 (€1.30), cod croquettes, £1.50 (€1.70), and spicy chorizo. £1.65 (€1.90).
Beer at a restaurant or pub is also cheaper than in the UK, with a “zurrito” (small glass) of local beer like San Miguel costing around £3.50 (€4).
The world-famous Guggenheim art museum is the city’s main attraction, home to popular works by artists such as Richard Serra, Robert Rauschenberg and Yayoi Kusama.
Although you need a ticket to enter, it’s completely free to admire the outdoor art installations, such as Jeff Koons’s Instagrammable Puppy sculpture guarding the entrance.
Dublin, Ireland
Close to home, Dublin offers a quick city getaway with affordable prices if you know where to look.
Flights from most UK airports are very short, taking just an hour from Manchester and 1 hour 20 minutes from London.
November is the cheapest month to travel to Ireland – return fares to Dublin cost around £36 with Ryanair from the East Midlands and £72 from Heathrow with British Airways.
This leaves extra spending money for its lively pub culture.
The typical price range for a pint of Guinness in city boozers – like O’Donoghue’s, Doheny & Nesbitt’s, Toners and The Baggot Inn – is similar to the UK’s national average of £5.15 (€5.80-€7.00), depending on location.
Tourist hotspots like Temple Bar push prices to £9 (€10.45) for a pint of the black stuff.
Avoid this by heading to a local boozer like The Auld Triangle, where a pint will set you back less than a fiver (€4.95).
You’ll still get traditional live music at a slice of the price.
But there’s much more to Dublin than a giddy Guinness binge.
Take in the city sights, including Phoenix Park and the grounds of Trinity College, both free to explore.
If you’ve got a spare £16 (€18), the Little Museum of Dublin is also well worth a visit.
Set in a cute Georgian townhouse, it’s a quirky one-stop shop for history fans.
Peckish? Wood-fired pizza costs less than £6 (€6.50) from Sano Pizza, while other cheap eats include Brother Hubbard (mezze plates from €7.50) and street food at EatYard, which is open Thursday-Sunday.
There is much more to Dublin than GuinnessCredit: Alamy
Brussels, Belgium
The capital of Belgium is within striking distance of the UK – super affordable flights take just over an hour.
One-way fares this November cost from as little as £33 from Luton with easyJet, with a flight time of 1 hour 20 minutes.
You can find even cheaper flights to the city’s second airport, Charleroi, which is around an hour from the city centre by bus.
The city’s main highlights – including the magnificent Grand Place, Sablon’s Gothic church and the famed Manneken Pis statue – are walkable and free to see.
You can keep costs down by visiting museums on reduced admission days.
For instance, the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium (normally €10) are free on the first Wednesday of each month from 1pm.
Sample gaufres de Liège (waffles), frites (fries) and Belgian chocolate – but find them at street food stalls, trucks and small cafés for the best price.
Maison Antoine sells a small cone of fries for around £3 (€3.50), while many good chocolate shops give out free samples.
When it comes to beer, avoid tourist trap bars around Grand Place and head to local boozers instead.
Beer Capital has beers from £2.87 (€3.30), and happy hour from noon until midnight, while Cafe Belga is a firm favourite with students.
Brussels has amazing street food if you are on a budgetCredit: Alamy
Amsterdam, The Netherlands
With its quaint canals, treasure-packed museums and vibrant dining scene, Amsterdam is perfect for a European city break.
You can reach this Dutch metropolis in 1 hour and 20 minutes, with easyJet flights from Manchester costing as little as £67 return this winter.
Walking is the best way to see the city’s gorgeous neighbourhoods of Prinsengracht, Herengracht and Keizersgracht, and the trendy Nine Streets area with its independent boutiques.
Planning to see as much as possible? You could save money with the I Amsterdam card, which allows free entry to some museums, including the Van Gogh Museum (but not the Anne Frank House, which you need to book in advance), travel discounts and bicycle rent. A 48-hour card costs £78 (€90).
Grab a £2.61 (€3) beef croquette straight from the wall at FEBO, automated snack machines dotted around the city.
Or head to a street stall to sample Dutch herring with onions and pickles for around €3, or stop by a Stroopwafels stand for freshly made caramel-filled wafers.
Fancy a drink? De Pilsener Club is a cosy, wood-panelled pub and one of the best spots for a cheap beer in the city centre.
Meanwhile, Kriterion is a trendy arthouse cinema with a student bar offering cheap beer (around £4.54 a pint), while Waterhole has happy hour every day (noon-9pm) with beers from £3.48 (€4).
If you’re planning to see a lot of sights, the Amsterdam tourist card could save you cashCredit: Alamy
Paris, France
Just 1 hour and 15 minutes from the UK by plane, Paris should make your budget-break bucket list.
While the City of Love has its fair share of overpriced tourist traps, there are ways you can shave euros off the prices you pay.
Avoid eating and drinking around the city’s main attractions, like the Eiffel Tower, Louvre and Arc de Triomphe, where restaurants charge a premium.
Instead, head to neighbourhoods just outside the most central zones (like the 11th, 19th and 20th arrondissements) for cheaper bars and restaurants.
With the average Parisian pint, or ‘pinte’, costing £5.22-£6.96 (€6-8), your best bet for finding budget beer in Paris is to avoid tourist zones and look for happy hour.
The cheapest pint in Paris is reportedly at Chez Marie in the 10th arrondissement – where you can enjoy a pint for £2.18 (€2.50) at happy hour (6-9pm).
When it comes to top-notch food, the French do it well – and crêpes (pancakes) are both filling and good value.
You can find street-side stands selling crêpes or eat them “à emporter” (to go) from around £3.48 (€4).
For lunch on the run, locals grab sandwiches and quiches from boulangeries (bakeries).
Other cheap eats include croque monsieur (ham and cheese toastie), which costs around £6-£8 (€7-9).
Other money-saving tips for Paris include taking the Metro instead of expensive taxis and visiting big museums like the Louvre and Musee d’Orsay on the first Sunday of the month, when they offer free admission.
You can also bag a bargain with flights – easyJet and Vueling offer one-way prices from as little as £24, with Fridays in November and March often offering the best results.
Paris is one of the closest cities to the UK by flightCredit: Getty
San Sebastian, Spain
In the heart of Spain’s Basque Country, San Sebastian is a foodie’s delight that won’t break the bank.
This city in the north of the country is home to amazing pintxos – tapas-style snacks that are small in price but huge in flavour.
Think olive and pepper skewers, chistorra (AKA smoky sausage), and traditional tortillas – with each dish typically costing less than £4 (around €2-€5).
A pint of beer typically costs around £5 (€5-7) in San Sebastian bars – but you can save money by ordering a smaller ‘caña’ (200ml draft beer), which is usually priced around £2.60 (€3).
British Airways flies direct to San Sebastian from London City, with one-way fares from £120 this autumn.
And with a flight time of 1 hour 55 minutes, you’ll be exploring its golden beaches, lush hillsides and cobbled lanes before you know it.
Even in winter, the weather can be pretty mild, with daytime temperatures rising to around 15 °C in November.
Some of the cheapest pintxos are in the Gros District, a surfing neighbourhood that’s a 10-minute walk from the old town.
The best way to burn the pintxos-hopping calories is to explore on foot.
Walk the scenic promenade along La Concha Bay or hike up Monte Urgull for epic city views that won’t cost you a penny.
La Concha beach in San Sebastian is a must-visitCredit: AlamyThe weather in San Sebastian is still around 15C in NovemberCredit: Getty
Prague, Czech Republic
A couple of hours from the UK by plane, Prague is a firm favourite as a European city break, with cheap food and pints costing a couple of quid.
Even in the centre of the Czech capital, a pint will only set you back around £1.70-2.50 (50-70CZK).
Head further out, and you can expect to pay just £1-1.78 (30-50CZK) for similar drinks.
Hany Bany, a boozer in the city’s old town, sells a small draft beer for just 78p (22CZK) and a pint for £1.25 (35CZK).
Working up an appetite? Grab a plate of hearty goulash and dumplings for £4.20 (119CZK) at Havelská Koruna, which opened as the country’s first fast-food restaurant in 1931.
Located in the old town, it’s a thriving and affordable diner, so arrive by 11.30am to beat the lunchtime crowds.
Save even more on your trip by sampling cheap street food at Havel Market and exploring the grounds of Prague Castle for free.
For a culture fix, some museums have free or cheap entry days, like the National Gallery Prague, which is free to enter on the first Wednesday of the month after 3pm.
In the Old Town Square, you can also watch the Astronomical Clock’s hourly dancing figurine show without spending a single koruna.
Return flights from London to Prague this winter cost from £34 with Ryanair, from £44 with Wizz Air and from £57 with easyJet.
Pints in Prague can set you back just £1.25m with some goulash for under a fiverCredit: GettyPrague is known for its pretty multicoloured housesCredit: Getty
Bordeaux, France
Also under two hours from the UK, the French city of Bordeaux offers cheap wine, local markets and a UNESCO area to discover.
It’s also affordable to reach, with easyJet offering return Bristol flights from £44 this winter.
While a pint of beer will set you back around £6 (€7) in most central bars in Bordeaux, wine is inexpensive.
In Le Bar à Vin Bordeaux, located opposite the tourism office, you can get glasses of decent wine for less than £3 – like a 15cl glass of Bordeaux rose for €2.50.
Meanwhile, you can keep costs low by chowing down street food near Place de la Victoire, or indulging in “canelés”.
These sweet, cylindrical pastries are typically priced less than a euro – La Toque Cuivrée sells them for a mere 60p (€0.70).
When you’ve eaten and drunk your fill, take in the historic centre and 18th-century architecture – a UNESCO World Heritage site.
It won’t cost you a penny to see sights like Place de la Bourse with its beautiful reflecting pool of water.
Later, find souvenirs at the Grands Hommes market or on the rue Sainte Catherine, one of the longest streets in Bordeaux.
If you’re on a tight budget, pick up a steal in Mad Vintage, a second-hand shop, or head to the southern end of the street, which has cheaper, more student-oriented boutiques compared to the higher-end shops of the north.
Bordeaux is less than two hours from the UKCredit: GettyExpect wine to be cheap in BordeauxCredit: Getty
Munich, Germany
The Bavarian capital is under two hours away, with return Gatwick flights costing from just £59 with easyJet this winter.
Which leaves plenty of spending money once you touch down in this edgy metropolis, which has lakes and mountains on its doorstep and oodles of cultural sights.
Contemporary gallery Museum Brandhorst is a must if you enjoy pop art, and is one of many museums that offer cheap entry for 87p (€1) on Sundays.
Other free must-do activities include watching the famed Glockenspiel show in Marienplatz and strolling around the lush grass and shimmering lake of the English Garden.
Of course, Munich is the beer capital, so it’d be rude not to sample the city’s tipple of choice, Dunkel, which ranks among the best German beers.
A pint of this dark, malty lager is best enjoyed in a noisy beer hall like Augustiner Bräustuben, where it’s £3.35 (€3.85) a pint.
For a cheap bite, make for Viktualienmarkt where you’ll find stalls selling sausage sandwiches for less than £6.09 (€7) or try a bakery for a €1 fresh pretzel.
AUTUMN has most certainly arrived – and with it, the dilemma of where to entertain the kids that’s weatherproof.
Luckily, London is home to a lot of attractions that are both indoors and free.
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There are a number of free attractions in London ideal for rainy days such as the National GalleryCredit: Alamy
So you can be kept dry and warm, without spending a penny – and the kids will be happy.
If in central London, unlimited travel within Zone 1 and Zone 2 across a day will set you back £8.90 per adult.
Zones 1 to 3 will cost £10.50 per adult and Zones 1 to 4 will cost £12.80 per adult.
Children between five and 10-years-old travel for free on the Tube, DLR, London Overground and Elizabeth line if travelling with an adult who is using pay as you go or has a valid ticket.
Unlimited daytime travel between Zones 1 and 2 costs £4.45 per child between 11 and 18-years-old.
This rises to £5.25 if including Zone 3 and £6.40 if including Zone 4.
Here is a long list of tings to o in the city, when the weather isn’t playing ball.
Zone 1
Zone 1 ultimately has a lot of free attractions, many of which are close to each other.
South of the river you could head to the Tate Modern, about a 10-minute walk from Southwark (Jubilee Line) Tube Station.
The gallery is home to modern and contemporary art and often runs children’s workshops and activities as well.
At Battersea Power Station, families can explore a Peppa Pig store, Lego store and a Transformers storeCredit: Alamy
Also south of the river is Battersea Power Station – which only reopened a few years ago.
The former power station has been converted into a grand shopping complex, but inside there is also a Lego store, Transformers store and Peppa Pig store.
Each is full of exciting products to explore and they often host events and activities.
More widely, the Power Station also has information boards to learn about the location’s history.
If you kids are massive Lego fans though, head to the Lego Store in Leicester Square instead. where families can enjoy a Pick & Build Wall, demo table, chance to make a mini figure and more.
Perhaps your kids are Harry Potter fans (or you are and want to drag them along) – well then head to House of MinaLima in Soho, near Oxford Circus tube station.
This hidden gem is a gallery and store that displays and sells the graphic art created by Miraphora Mina and Eduardo Lima for the Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts films.
Think – newspapers with the headlines that Sirius Black has escaped from Azkaban and the boxes from Bertie Bott’s Every Flavour Beans.
And downstairs there is even a mini museum with props from the films.
Chat to the staff as well, for great stories and facts about the designs and props.
For those more into dinosaurs, the Natural History Museum near South Kensington is a must.
The Natural History museum is home to a lot of dinosaurs as well as other stuffed animalsCredit: Alamy
The museum has over 80 million life and earth specimens to investigate across five main collections – Botany, Entomology, Mineralogy, Palaeontology and Zoology.
Exhibits include a blue whale skeleton, a number of small and large dinosaurs and interactive displays, like an earthquake simulator.
Alternatively, for those more into space and the wonders of the scientific world, head to the Science Museum, also in South Kensington.
Here visitors can see a number of different items from history, such as early computers and space exploration artifacts.
Many of the areas across the museum also include ‘hands-on’ activities and displays, ideal for kids.
Just last month, the museum also opened a new Space Gallery with cutting-edge prototypes and key items used in space exploration.
A third stop in South Kensington is the V&A, which is dedicated to art, design and performance.
There are over 2.8million objects to explore inside the museum, including Henry VIII’s writing desk and a number of Vivienne Westwood‘s designs.
The British Museum building has more than eight million artifactsCredit: Alamy
There are a bunch of other museums in Zone 1 as well, like The British Museum, which is dedicated to human history, art, and culture.
In fact, the eight million items span from over two million years of history.
For an insight into Britain’s military, head to The National Army Museum for history of the army from the English Civil War to the present day or the Imperial War Museum for history of modern war and conflict including both World Wars.
There are a number of galleries in Zone 1 as well, such as the National Portrait Gallery in Trafalgar Square, which is home to the world’s most extensive collection of portraits of historically important and famous Brits.
Next door is then the National Gallery, where you will find the UK’s collection of Western European paintings from the 13th to early 20th centuries.
You’ll be able to spot artwork by Vincent Van Gogh and Leonardo da Vinci.
At the Tate Modern families can explore lots of modern art and often there are workshops for childrenCredit: Alamy
Or over in Pimlico, you could explore the Tate Britain – a major art gallery which holds the UK’s national collection of British art from 1500 to the present day.
Expect artworks by J.M.W Turner, William Hogarth, David Hockney and Barbara Hepworth.
To see an extravagant house in the heart of London, venture to The Wallace Collection.
Inside visitors will find lots of art and antiques that were collected by the Hertford family and Sir Richard Wallace, left to the UK in 1897.
It is perfect for older children who like history and exploring fascinating artefacts.
Book worms should check out the British Library, which is home to over 13million printed and electronic books.
The library hosts a lot of free activities, workshops and exhibitions – especially for children.
For example, you could head to Story Explorers: A journey through imaginary worlds, which explores the stories behind weird and wonderful objects.
At The Outernet, visitors can watch digital art displays on large LED ScreensCredit: Alamy
If your kids like gaming or high-tech, make sure to visit The Outernet, next to Tottenham Court Road Station.
The Outernet is an immersive entertainment venue, which broadcasts different digital art displays on giant LED screen.
Current shows include ‘Enchanted Forest’ which allows visitors to step into a “musical adventure where you help bring a silent forest back to life”.
Last but not least is an amazing spot to see both the city’s skyline and enjoy a sprawling garden, without being rained on.
Sky Garden, near Monument, is a public garden inside the glass dome that sits at the top of the famous Walkie-Talkie building.
The garden offers breathtaking views of the city, as well as lots of greenery.
Tickets do need to be booked in advance though.
V&A East Storehouse only opened earlier this yearCredit: Getty
Zone 2
If you venture out to Zone 2, one top spot is The Young V&A in Bethnal Green, which only opened in 2023.
The museum is the perfect place to take kids to spark their creativity, with hands-on activities based on colours, textures and shapes.
For example, there is a construction zone for den making and a giant marble run.
In West India Quay, you can head to Museum of London Docklands where the history of London’s port and river are explored.
The museum takes visitors on a chronological journey of the docks’ history, with interactive displays along the way.
Having only opened this year, the V&A East Storehouse is a new one to add to your ‘to visit’ list.
The Sun’s deputy travel editor Kara Godfrey said: “It almost reminded me of anIKEAwarehouse with the simple plywood and metal structures and open concept.“
The Horniman Museum has lots of different collections to explore, as well as an aquariumCredit: Alamy
Zone 3
Located in Forest Hill, families should visit the Horniman Museum and Gardens.
The museum has lots of different collections including ones based on natural history, anthropology, and musical instruments.
There is even an aquarium as well.
For some multi-fun, drop into God’s Own Junkyard to see Europe‘s largest collection of vintage and new neon signs.
Located in Walthamstow and open Friday to Sunday, the warehouse even has a number of signs from films including Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and Batman.
You’re bound to have seen some of William Morris’s designs plastered across hotel walls as wallpaper or even as a notepad cover, and at the William Morris Gallery – also in Walthamstow – you can see the world’s largest collection of Morris’s work up close.
At God’s Own Junkyard, you can see hundreds of neon signs, including ones used in filmsCredit: Alamy
Zone 4
If you fancy travelling out to Zone 4, then make sure not to miss the Royal Air Force Museum London.
Located in Colindale, The Royal Air Force Museum London has a vast collection of aircraft and artifacts that all tell the story of aviation and the RAF.
In total there are six hangars to explore and key exhibits including a Spitfire and Hurricane.
You can even try out a flight simulator, that feels like you are flying a Typhoon jet.
Looking for rainy day activities outside of London? Then head on this English walk that’s perfect for rainy days, ending with a stunning waterfall and one of the country’s best cafes.
Chris Logan, Commercial Director of TUI UK&I said: “We’re thrilled to be the first major tour operator to extend our free kids’ places programme to Mexico and the Dominican Republic, responding directly to the growing demand we’ve seen for long-haul family adventures.
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“With thousands of free kids’ places available across our Summer 2027 programme, we’re making bucket-list family holidays more accessible than ever before.
“For Summer 2027, we are excited to be offering our widest range of destinations with free kids’ places, the convenience of flying from 23 UK regional airports, and the exceptional service of our UK accredited TUI staff who run kids’ clubs across more than 120 hotels.”
Free Child Places are when a child can go free on a holiday, when staying with two-fully paying adults, at no extra cost.
Most accept children to be under the age of 16 to get the free place.
Generally, a free child place can only be claimed if there are two full-paying adults on a holiday booking. It means that when a pair of adults book a room, one child can stay for no extra cost.
The cut-off for a free child place is 16 years old with most holiday companies.
It includes the return flight, as well as accommodation, transfers and any food board.
Some of the current Free Child Place TUI deals on offer include a week in Majorca for £362pp,
KIM Kardashian has sensationally admitted that she doesn’t know the price of a carton of milk.
Fans have now blasted the 44-year-old fashion mogul and billionaire as ‘out of touch’ for not knowing how much simple groceries cost.
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Kim Kardashian has made a candid confession – but fans think she’s ‘out of touch’Credit: You Tube/Call Her DaddyShe confessed how she does not know how much a carton of milk isCredit: YouTube/FergieShe previously starred in Fergie’s music video while getting showered in milkCredit: YouTube/Fergie
Appearing on Alex Cooper’s Call Her Daddy podcast, Kim opened up about how much money she spends on beauty products before dropping her bombshell confession.
Alex asked Kim how much she spends on her glam routine.
She responded, “If I’m filming my show, then they pay for it.
“So, I try to get it all paid for so that I don’t personally have to pay for it.”
The billionaire, who is said to be worth over $1.7billion, then confessed she doesn’t have a concept on what things tend to cost.
Making the candid confession on the podcast, she said, “I mean, I don’t have a concept of what like certain simple things cost.”
She added, “I’d like I’d like to know a little bit more about what a milk carton cost.”
Most read in Entertainment
‘SO OUT OF TOUCH’
On Reddit, one person reacted, “I cant believe she doesnt know the price of a carton of milk! so out of touch.”
Meanwhile, on X, someone else said, “Awww poor rich girl.”
“A million on beauty but clueless about basic groceries? Sounds like priorities are wildly skewed,” penned another.
Kim later confessed to Alex that she wasn’t sure how much her glam costs each year, but said it could be one million dollars before saying how “this hair isn’t cheap”.
Kim’s “out of touch” comment about the price of a carton of milk comes after the reality star has posed while drinking milk on several occasions.
She famously appeared in Fergie’s music video for the hit M.I.L.F. $.
In the video, Kim could be seen drinking milk while donning a sexy ensemble.
She has also posed while drinking milk for various photoshoots in the past, too.
UK staycations can often set you back hundreds, but for the same price – or even less – you could get into the festive spirit in another country.
According to travel money experts at eurochange, it can cost upwards of £1,600 for a family of four to stay in a lodge in the UK around the Christmas period.
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There are many destinations you could head to for the same price or less than a staycation in the UK, such as Zakopane in Poland (above)Credit: Getty
Yet, for the same price you could be jetting off to Europe and exploring local Christmas markets.
Here are five great alternatives for an adventure during the Christmas period.
Zakopane, Poland
Zakopane located in Poland is known for being a top ski destination, especially thanks to the Tatra mountains.
The town has its own Christmas market to get you in the festive spirit, with stalls selling regional food such as oscypek – smoked sheep cheese.
Accommodation prices for December stays aren’t bad either.
For example, you could stay at willa anulka na Hrubym for five nights for £191 total for two adults and two children – and it is only 1.1 miles from the ski lifts.
Alternatively, head to Willa Senator which is less than half a mile from the ski lift and 1.4 miles from the town centre and costs £214 for five nights for a family of four.
It is the perfect spot to stay in with kids as there is an outdoor play area and garden.
Kakheti, Georgia
Kakheti in Georgia is known for being a great wine region, with many wineries hosting Christmas events throughout December.
Visitors can head to one of the wineries and try wines made in the region, aged in qvevris – a traditional clay vessel used in the winemaking process.
Georgia also has a ‘feast’ culture, known in the country as ‘supra’, with local treats including churchkhela – candle-shaped walnut sweets.
Return flights to Tbilisi from London cost from £152 per person.
When it comes to accommodation, there are a vast array of options depending on your budget.
For example, you could stay in the winery at Elizbar Talakvadze for £391 for five nights in December, for a family of four.
If you fancy staying somewhere with a pool, then you could stay at Holiday Inn Telavi by IHG for £429 for five nights also in December, for a family of four.
Kakheti in Georgia is known for being a great wine region and many of the wineries host Christmas eventsCredit: Getty
Cologne, Germany
Cologne in Germany is often considered one of the most festive cities in the world with multiple Christmas markets to explore.
At the markets visitors can enjoy mulled wine and traditional German snacks, such as Reibekuchen, which are a type of potato pancakes.
Or alternatively opt for a Christmas market classic, a Bratwurst with sauerkraut.
The city is also home to a beautiful Cathedral worth visiting.
Flights from Manchester in December cost from £41 or from London you could head there for £64.
Five nights at the Mercure Hotel Köln West in December cost from £455 for a family of four.
Alternatively, you could stay in an apartment at FeWo Central, just 1.3 miles from the city centre for £373 for five nights in December for a family of four.
Cologne in Germany is home to many different Christmas marketsCredit: Getty
Courchevel, France
The French Alps are an idyllic spot for a holiday during the Christmas period with Courchevel being transformed with festive lights and cheery decorations.
The destination has lots of family friendly activities including skiing, with ski schools for little ones, ice skating and dog sledding.
Courchevel is about two hours from Geneva Airport, which you can fly to in December for as little as £46 return from London, £48 return from Liverpool and £50 return from Belfast.
Accommodation in Courchevel is typically more expensive, however there are some good deals out there, such as a stay during the first week of December at the La Tania 309 Le Britania apartment, which is just a short walk from the ski lift.
For five nights for a family of four it costs from £370.
There are many more options for chalets between the £600 and £1,000 mark for a week, for a family of four in December.
Courchevel in the French Alps is a great spot if you like skiingCredit: Getty
Tallinn, Estonia
The capital of Estonia, Tallinn, is known for its UNESCO-listed old town which looks like it has been ripped from the pages of a Disney fairytale.
Add in the snow the city often gets and some festive spirit, it becomes a great option for a Christmas getaway.
In the Town Hall Square, there is a Christmas market which claims to be one of the oldest in Europe, dating back to 1441.
The market has lots of stalls with Estonian snacks such as blood sausages.
It is cheapest to fly to Tallinn from London, with return fares costing from £44 in December.
Options for accommodation in the city are vast, including Park Inn by Radisson Central Tallinn for £413 for five nights for a family of four.
Alternatively, if you fancy a spa and some fun for the kids, head to Kalev Spa Hotel & Waterpark in the centre of the city for £494, for five nights for a family of four including breakfast.
THIS Christmas snag £365 of beauty must-haves for just £79 – including the fan-favourite ‘glass skin in a bottle’ and the show-stopping ‘Wonder’ serum.
The set brings together 32 carefully curated mix of skincare and beauty essentials, designed to keep your complexion glowing all winter long.
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It has 32 carefully selected treats across haircare, skincare, makeup, bath & body and lifestyleCredit: Justmylook
From hydrating serums to luxurious creams, each product promises a little bit of pampering magic, making it a perfectly indulgent gift for yourself or someone special.
Shoppers are already calling it a bargain not to be missed, with the full retail value adding up to over £365, yet the Christmas set is available for just £79 – a fraction of the price.
What’s included?
For haircare, there is a Hair Syrup Rapunzel Pre-Wash Oil Treatment (50ml, deluxe size), Alfaparf Milano Semi Di Lino Diamond Illuminating Shampoo (75ml, deluxe size), and Alfaparf Milano Semi Di Lino Diamond Illuminating Conditioner (50ml, deluxe size).
You also get an Intense Moisture Hair Mask (300ml, full size), Bondi Boost Heat Protectant Spray (50ml, deluxe size), Incredilox Nourishing Argan Treatment Oil (100ml, full size) and a Brushworks Dry Shampoo (50ml, deluxe size).
Your skin will be pampered with a Madagascar Centella Ampoule (30ml, full size), a Biodance Bio-Collagen Real Deep Mask (34g, full size), a TIRTIR Milk Skin Toner (50ml, full size), and a Purito Mighty Bamboo Panthenol Cream (100ml, full size).
You can also enjoy a Dr.PawPaw Overnight Lip Mask (10ml, full size), a Geek & Gorgeous Jelly Joker Cleanser (50ml, deluxe size), Grace & Stella Under Eye Mask Set (full size), a Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Fluid SPF50 (15ml, deluxe size), a Clean Skin Club Clean Towels XL Travel Pack (x10, full size) and a Kanzen Anti-Bacterial Cleansing Water (125ml, full size).
The beauty set offers cosmetics such as the Clomana Marshmallow Sponge, a Spectrum Collections Everyday 4 Piece Makeup Brush Set, a Plump It! Volumising Lip Oil (3ml), and a Jecca Blac Glow Drops Highlighting Primer in Rose Pearl (20ml).
Treat yourself to a fresh manicure with the Nails Inc. It’s Topless 1-Step Gel Nail Polish (10ml) and Nails Inc. It’s Topless 1-Step Gel Nail Polish (10ml).
Relax with the bath and body samples, which include the ESPA Bergamot & Jasmine Body Wash (40ml), the ESPA Bergamot & Jasmine Body Lotion (40ml), a Fussy Natural Deodorant Stick and two Truly Beauty Unicorn Fruit & Coco Cloud Gift sets (60ml).
Other goodies include a Shay & Blue Parfum Nashwa Eau De Parfum (10ml), a White Silver Cloud Fluffy Sleep Mask, a Justmylook Spa Headband and three Justmylook Satin Hair Scrunchies.
The Lookfantastic Grooming Advent Calendar review: Is it really worth £425
Customer reviews
Customers loved the set last year, leaving rave reviews and calling it a “blow-away” buy for both the quality and quantity of products included.
Many praise how the items feel luxurious, perform well, and offer a real sense of value, making it one of the most talked-about beauty bargains this festive season.
One customer wrote: “Bought this last year for my daughter and she absolutely loved it!
“The variety and quality of products behind each door was exceptional, in fact she has since purchased some of the items to use throughout the year.
Most important skincare advice
Faye Purcell, Head of Research & Development at Q+A Skincare shared her knowledge with Fabulous.
What skincare advice would you like everyone to know/follow?
Can I give two! Firstly, wear SPF daily and secondly, double cleanse! Wearing SPF daily, even on cloudy days and during the winter months, is one of the most important things you can do for your skin.
Double cleansing is one of the most effective (and often overlooked) ways to upgrade your skincare routine – especially if you wear sunscreen, makeup, or live in a busy polluted city. I’d suggest an evening double cleanse for best results.
What is a big skincare myth?
Luxury doesn’t mean more effective. You absolutely do not need to spend a fortune on skincare to get great results and Q+A is the perfect example of this. Many affordable products use the same active ingredients as luxury brands like hyaluronic acid, retinol, vitamin C, peptides, or salicylic acid – we use these in lots of our face and body products. A smart, consistent routine with well-formulated products – regardless of price – is what truly delivers results.
If someone is new to skincare, what’s one product you’d recommend them and why?
A moisturiser with SPF. Moisturising daily is an essential for all skin types and can make a perceivable difference to the appearance of the skin quickly. As SPF is also essential, combining these two steps can build good habits quickly and prevent skin cancer. Not only is SPF essential for protecting the skin from sun damage/skin cancer but also helps keep premature ageing at bay e.g. wrinkles/pigmentation.
Q+A have three excellent facial SPF50s (£15 each) – Peptide Anti-Ageing SPF50, Niacinamide Balancing SPF50 and Squalane Hydrating SPF50, that are available from Sephora and Holland & Barrett.
What is Q+A’s number one best seller?
Our Hyaluronic Acid Facial Serum. It’s our number one best-seller one is sold every 90 seconds!
When it comes to the body, it’s the Q+A Salicylic Acid Body Wash – we sell one every two minutes.
Q+A is available from Sephora, Holland & Barrett, selected Sainsbury’s, Tesco, Waitrose stores and qandaskin.com.
Another added: “I truly enjoyed opening this one. A few different products in it unlike some advents who seems to copy each other. Very happy and especially the price point.”
A third penned: “I have just received my box as a birthday present. Love. Love. Love. What is there not to love?
“The box itself is just gorgeous … the contents are just amazing. It’s going to take some time to go through all the boxes .. can I wait until December …. nnahhhhh Let’s start now. Thank you.”
A fourth said: “WOW in a word! I’ve just received my JML Advent today and it’s absolutely beautiful.
“The box is gorgeous and so well made, each drawer holding the full 25 (not 24 like a classic advent) individual boxes (though I note there are several boxes with multiple items).
“It’s truly a lovely gift for yourself or a loved one (I ordered one for myself and another for my mum). I can’t recommend it enough, honestly.
“The team at JML have clearly put a lot of thought in to both the design of the box and the goodies inside it, not to mention the incredible value for money.
“I’m blown away, truly. Thanks Team JML – this advent is fabulous!!”
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It has 20 full-size products and a total value of over £365Credit: Justmylook
Biggest skincare trends for 2025
Face The Future’s Head of Clinic, Kimberley Medd, shared the five skincare trends predicted to take off in 2025.
1. Exosomes
Exosomes are the buzzword for 2025, taking advanced skin regeneration to new heights. These micro-messengers signal skin cells to repair damage, boost collagen, and accelerate recovery, and they’re a gamechanger for targeting ageing.
2. Streamlined Skincare
The age of 12-step routines is fading as consumers shift to more intentional, multi-functional products. Streamlining skincare not only saves time but also reduces the risk of overloading your skin. In 2025, we’ll see a rise in hybrid products that combine active ingredients for simplified, effective results.
3. Vegan Collagen
Plant-based collagen will dominate the skincare world this year, providing a sustainable, ethical alternative to traditional animal-derived collagen. Expect vegan collagen in everything from moisturisers to serums.
4. The Rise Of AI
AI is revolutionising the beauty landscape, making it possible for consumers to get truly personalised skincare solutions. In 2025, we predict a dramatic shift towards AI-powered tools that help people understand their skin on a deeper level.
5. Hair Loss Solutions –
Hair loss is an issue that affects more men than we often realise, and it’s no longer just something we’re talking about behind closed doors. This year, expect to see a continued rise in demand for treatments that not only tackle hair loss but also nurture overall scalp health.
THE chancellor could raise tens of billions from tax reforms that don’t hit “working people”, leading economists have said.
Rachel Reeves is under pressure to fill an estimated £50billion black hole in the public finances ahead of November’s autumn statement.
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Rachel Reeves is under pressure to fill an estimated £50billion black hole in the public finances ahead of November’s autumn statementCredit: Alamy
Westminster is awash with rumours that Labour could extend the freeze on income tax thresholds.
However, critics say this would mean breaking Labour’s manifesto pledge not to increase taxes on “working people”.
But in a new report, the Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS) urged the Chancellor to resist “half-baked” solutions like “simply hiking rates”.
The IFS Green Budget Chapter report instead urges the chancellor to reform the “unfair” and “inefficient” tax system.
End capital gains tax relief on death
Reeves could scrap capital gains tax relief on death, the report said.
When you sell certain assets – like houses, land or other valuable items – you have to pay a tax on the profit you made on it.
However, there are some important exceptions.
For example, if someone dies and you inherit their asset, you don’t have to pay capital gains tax they would have paid.
But the IFS said Reeves should consider scrapping the relief, raising £2.3billion in 2029-30.
However, families could oppose the measure given Labour is already skimming more revenue off inherited wealth.
The inheritance tax threshold has been frozen at £325,000 since 2009.
And last year, Reeves announced she would extend the freeze until 2030.
Hit taxpayers with a ‘one-off’ wealth tax
Economists and politicians are often divided over whether a wealth tax would work.
Supporters argue that the UK’s richest 1% are wealthier than the bottom 70% – and that a wealth tax would reduce this inequality.
But critics say it would be an administrative nightmare and lead millionaires to leave the country, taking their businesses and tax revenues with them.
But if Labour does reach for wealth in the budget – it should opt for a “one-off” wealth tax, the IFS said.
The think tank argues this is a better option than a recurring wealth tax.
It would work by the government calculating how much people’s total assets are worth and taxing them over a certain threshold.
“An unexpected and credibly one-off assessment of existing wealth could in principle be an economically efficient way to raise revenue,” the IFS wrote.
However, a wealth tax that happened on a regular basis would have “serious drawbacks,” the think tank warned.
Valuing everyone’s wealth every year would be “extremely difficult,” it said.
Moreover, a regular tax could deter the highest tax payers from residing in the UK long-term, potentially hitting overall tax revenues.
But the IFS said that even a “one-off” levy could spell trouble if people don’t trust the government not to come back for more.
The report said: “The potential efficiency of such a tax could be undermined, however, if announcing a one-off tax created expectations of, or uncertainty about, other future taxes.”
Double the council tax rates paid by highest value homes
A new council tax surcharge could raise up to £4.4billion.
Council tax is a local tax on residential properties in the UK, with homes assigned to Bands A to H based on their value.
Bands G and H generally include the highest value homes.
The IFS said doubling the council tax paid by these households could mean a £4.4billion boost.
However, critics already say the council tax system is “unfair and arbitrary”.
As reported by The Sun, families living in modest homes sometimes pay more than those in multi-million-pound mansions.
The root of the problem is simple – council taxbills are not based on what your home is worth today.
Instead, it’s based on its value way back in 1991, when homes were categorised into bands ranging from A to H.
Decades of uneven house price growth mean this once-simple system is now riddled with inequalities.
Moreover, councils set their own tax rates – leading to a “postcode lottery”.
The average Band D council tax in England is £2,280, but councils set their own rates.
For example, in Wandsworth, people pay just £990, while in Nottingham, they pay £2,656.
This means that millions of homeowners pay much less compared to their property’s value than those in poorer areas, according toPropertyData.
Another potential problem is that the extra cash would go to local authorities rather than central government.
Local authorities use council tax to pay for local services like schools, bin collections and libraries.
So to make sure it reaps the benefits of the change, Downing Street could reduce the grants being paid to councils, the IFS said.
The UK government gives councils more than £69billion in funding – a 6.8% increase in cash terms compared to 2024-25.
But councils would likely still fight back against any funding downgrade – with sticky 3.8% inflation already eating into their grants.
Rejig inheritance tax
The IFS admits that changes to inheritance tax could ‘provoke’ strong reactions.
But its report said that the £9billion said annually is ‘modest’ – although high by historical standards.
Reforming death duties to abolish the additional £175,000 tax-free allowance could raise around £6billion, the economists wrote.
“One obvious option would be to increase the rate of inheritance tax from its current 40%,” the economists wrote.
They said an increase of just 1% would raise £0.3billion in 2029–30.
The government could also reduce the threshold at which the tax begins to be paid.
Currently, people can pass on up to £325,000 of wealth tax-free.
Then there’s an additional £175,000 tax-free allowance that can be used only when passing on a primary residence to a direct descendant.
Abolishing the second of these allowances, for example, could raise around £6billion in 2029–30, the IFS said.
Crack down on businesses underpaying their taxes
The think tank has urged Labour to tackle tax non-compliance.
Corporation tax, a tax on company profits, has become increasingly important to the Treasury’s coffers in recent years.
Over the course of the 2010s, revenue averaged 2.4% of national income, rising to 3.3% in 2025–26.
But corporation tax dodging meant 15.8% of liabilities went unpaid in 2023-24, up from just 8.8% in 2017-18.
Small businesses are mainly to blame, the IFS said, admitting that claiming the prize of missing corporation tax “would not be straightforward in practice”.
The think tank added: “More work is needed to understand why so many small companies are submitting incorrect tax returns.
“It is likely that tackling the gap would require targeted compliance activities from HMRC, such as auditing small businesses.”
The IFS also said “more revenue could be raised from corporation tax”.
However, it did warn that, while a 1% increase would raise £4.1billion, there could be adverse consequences.
The authors wrote that investment in the UK could become “less attractive” and reduce future tax yields.
However, critics may argue that any tax hike hitting members of the public – even if targeting inheritance or council tax – will still feel like a broken promise.
What must the chancellor avoid doing?
The personal tax allowance has been frozen at £12,570 since April 2021.
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak announced the freeze would remain until April 2026 and Labour extended it until April 2028.
Extending the freeze on personal tax thresholds including national insurance contributions would raise around £10.4billion a year from 2029-30.
But IFS economists say Reeves must not do this – and instead lift the threshold amid rising inflation.
Extending the freeze would be a breach of Labour’s manifesto pledge not to increase taxes for “working people” which includes income tax, national insurance and VAT, the IFS said.
The report’s authors also said restricting income tax relief on pension contributions would raise large sums but should be avoided.
Currently, when you put money into a pension, the income tax you’ve already paid on that money is essentially returned via a government top-up.
The IFS said restricting relief would be “unfair” to penalise pensions again when pension income is already taxed.
The Chancellor should also resist the temptation to up stamp duties, the IFS said.
The think tank fears it would cause people to avoid selling their homes when they want to – hitting the jobs market and holding back growth.
“Changing rates and thresholds is all very well, but unless the Chancellor is willing to pursue genuine reform it will be taxpayers that shoulder the cost of her neglect,” the report, which forms a chapter in the IFS’s wider budget assessment for 2025, said.
Isaac Delestre, a senior research economist at the think tank and an author of the chapter, said Ms Reeves would have “fallen short” if she reaches for quick revenue without wider reform.
“Almost any package of tax rises is likely to weigh on growth, but by tackling some of the inefficiency and unfairness in our existing tax system, the Chancellor could limit the economic damage,” he said.
What is the Budget?
THE Budget is big news and where you’ll often hear announcements about taxes. But what exactly is it?
The Budget is when the Government outlines its plans for the economy including taxation and spending.
The Chancellor of the Exchequer delivers a speech in the House of Commons and announces plans for things like tax hikes, cuts and changes to Universal Credit and the minimum wage.
At the same time, the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) publishes an independent analysis of the UK economy.
Usually, the Budget is a once-a-year event and usually takes place in the Autumn, with a smaller update known as the Spring Statement.
But there have been exceptions in recent years when there have been more updates, or the announcements have taken place at different times, for example during the pandemic or when there is a General Election.
On the day of the Budget, usually a Wednesday, the Chancellor is photographed outside No 11 Downing Street with the red box.
She then heads to the House of Commons to deliver her speech, at around 12.30 following Prime Minister’s Questions (PMQs).
Changes announced in the Budget are sometimes implemented the same day, while others may not have a set date.
For example, a change to tobacco duty usually happens on the same day, pushing up the price of cigarettes.
Some tax changes are set to come in at the start of a new tax year, which is April 6.
Other changes may need to pass through Parliament before coming into law.
Business rates are a tax charged on most commercial properties, such as shops, offices, pubs, and warehouses.Credit: Getty
At the time, the Government proposed raising business rates on the biggest retail properties with values over £500,000.
This would allow for a discount on rates for small retail and hospitality premises to be permanent.
The government has not yet set the rates, but changes are due to take effect in April 2026.
But the Co-op is now urging the Government to commit to the maximum levels of relief for smaller stores in the upcoming Autumn Budget on November 24.
Research conducted by the supermarket found one in eight small high street business owners will be at risk of shutting down if reforms are not delivered.
A further 10% of small said they would need to lay off staff.
Shirine Khoury-Haq, Co-op group chief executive, said: “The proposed system would improve the financial situation of 99% of retailers.
“How much they are protected from tax rises depends on decisions made in this Budget. To boost local economies, create jobs and provide community cohesion, we need inclusive growth.”
“That means supporting the businesses on the corners, in the precincts, on the parades and the high streets of every community.
” In order for them to not only survive, but to thrive, the government has to commit to the maximum levels of relief.”
JD Sports Shuts 13 Stores Amid Sales Slump: What’s Next for the High Street?
It comes as many larger retailers have voiced concerns over plans to increase business rates on larger stores, arguing the move could make them unprofitable or lead to price hikes.
In August, a letter signed by Morrisons, Aldi and JD Sports, warned that further tax rises on businesses could result in the Labour government breaking its manifesto pledge to provide “high living standards”.
It reads: “As retailers, we have done everything we can to shield our customers from the worst inflationary pressures but as they persist, it is becoming more and more challenging for us to absorb the cost pressures we face.”
Many businesses have already seen their labour costs rise thanks to the rate of employer national insurance being increased in last year’s Budget.
The Treasury expects the new rates system will only impact the top 1% of properties.
A Treasury spokesperson said: “We are creating a fairer business rates system to protect the high street, support investment, and level the playing field by introducing permanently lower tax rates for retail, hospitality, and leisure properties from April that will be sustainably funded by a new, higher rate on less than 1% of the most valuable business properties.
“Unlike the current relief for these properties, there will be no cash cap on the new lower tax rates, and we have set out our long-term plans to address ‘cliff edges’ in the system to support small businesses to expand.”
RETAIL PAIN IN 2025
The British Retail Consortium has predicted that the Treasury’s hike to employer NICs will cost the retail sector £2.3billion.
Research by the British Chambers of Commerce shows that more than half of companies plan to raise prices by early April.
A survey of more than 4,800 firms found that 55% expect prices to increase in the next three months, up from 39% in a similar poll conducted in the latter half of 2024.
Three-quarters of companies cited the cost of employing people as their primary financial pressure.
The Centre for Retail Research (CRR) has also warned that around 17,350 retail sites are expected to shut down this year.
It comes on the back of a tough 2024 when 13,000 shops closed their doors for good, already a 28% increase on the previous year.
Professor Joshua Bamfield, director of the CRR said: “The results for 2024 show that although the outcomes for store closures overall were not as poor as in either 2020 or 2022, they are still disconcerting, with worse set to come in 2025.”
Professor Bamfield has also warned of a bleak outlook for 2025, predicting that as many as 202,000 jobs could be lost in the sector.
“By increasing both the costs of running stores and the costs on each consumer’s household it is highly likely that we will see retail job losses eclipse the height of the pandemic in 2020.”
TWO years ago, I became a qualified nail technician and since then, have been through countless nail lamps.
The one that has remained my trusty companion has been the SUNUV nail lamp — and it’s been discounted on Amazon by a hefty 43%.
I’ve been using the SunUV lamp for years, and it’s the best nail lamp I’ve testedCredit: Supplied
SUNUV Led Nail Lamp, £69.99 £39.97 at Amazon
Whether you’re looking to save some cash by doing your manicures at home or considering a career as a nail technician, this nail lamp is one to consider, offering salon-quality nails at an incredibly affordable price.
We all know that as Christmas approaches, it brings with it events that can strain finances, leaving less budget for monthly salon trips.
So, now is the perfect time to save your pennies and put some treatments on hold by investing in a nail lamp.
The SUNUV lamp has over 2,000 five-star reviews, has made over 3,000 sales this month alone, and is currently on sale for just £39.98.
Who’s it best for? The lamp suits anyone looking to do their nails at home, all the way up to people looking to start an independent career in nails. It’s perfect for beginners as much as trained professionals due to its easy-to-use features and salon-quality strength.
What we loved: The affordability and salon quality, as well as its four different time settings, which include a longer time and lower heat setting for sensitive hands and the longevity of a manicure.
What we didn’t: I genuinely don’t have any issues to report with this lamp — it’s been my go-to for years.
The shape of the lamp ensures even coverage, thanks ot its strategically placed lights.Credit: Via Amazon
SUNUV Led Nail Lamp, £69.99 £39.97 at Amazon
I tested this lamp as part of my review of the best nail lamps, focusing on how long it takes to use, how easy it is for beginners to get to grips with and the features that set it apart from other devices on the market.
The SUNUV lamp takes the top spot as the best overall lamp for me for several reasons.
Firstly, despite being a salon-quality lamp — in fact, many salons use it — it’s priced similarly to many flimsy starter lamps, making it a steal for the quality it offers.
While it doesn’t come with polishes, base coats, and tools like some others do, the durability of the manicures it delivers makes it worth purchasing those additional items separately.
One feature that I really love is the three different time settings of 10, 30, and 60 seconds, as well as a fourth option: a lower-heat, longer-timed 90-second setting, perfect for those with sensitive hands who may find higher heat intensity uncomfortable.
The placement of the lights inside the lamp ensures even curing, while the sturdy, detachable base makes pedicures much easier to achieve.
Price and packaging
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The base of the lamp is detachable, which helps with pedicures.
SUNUV Led Nail Lamp, £69.99 £39.97 at Amazon
Other salon-grade lamps, such as Glitterbels or Gelish, can sit at the higher end of the price range, costing between £250 and £350.
I’ve tested Gelish as well as other high-end lamps and still find SunUV’s lamp to be the best all-rounder in terms of value, affordability, and features.
For £39.97, you’re getting a salon-grade lamp that’s also compatible with a range of polishes.
The Verdict: can the SUNUV lamp offer the same manicure as salon?
If you’re looking to bring the salon experience home and save some money, the SUNUV lamp is the perfect deal to snap up right now.
Although you will miss out on the small talk and the thousands of colour options, this lamp will offer you pretty pedicures and manicures whenever you want, wherever you want, without the hefty cost of going to the salon.
SUNUV Led Nail Lamp £69.99 £39.97 from Amazon – buy here
SHOPPERS are set for a major boost as a supermarket giant launches its first ever Express store in the UK.
It marks the start of a huge national rollout that’ll see up to 20 new stores open before the end of the year.
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A supermarket giant is rolling out Express stores across the ukCredit: asda
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Asda opened the doors to its brand-new Express location in West YorkshireCredit: asda
The retail titan, Asda, has opened the doors to its brand-new Express in Castleford, West Yorkshire,
It’s the first time Asda has taken its famous yellow and green brand into the world of small-format convenience stores, as it looks to take on Tesco Express and Sainsbury’s Local head-on.
The new shop, built on the site of a former pub on Holywell Lane, has been completely transformed into a slick, modern mini-market packed with more than 3,000 products.
From meal deals and snacks to fresh fruit, booze and ready meals, locals can now grab all their essentials in one quick stop.
Read more on supermarkets
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The new Express store will be kitted out with over 3,000 productsCredit: asda
It’s open every day from 6am to 11pm, making it perfect for early risers, night owls, and anyone in desperate need of milk after hours.
The store also comes kitted out with handy extras, including a Costa Coffee machine, ATM, and Amazon collection point, plus, you can get your shopping delivered via Uber Eats, Just Eat or Deliveroo.
Shopping bargains
Asda says the new Express format is designed to bring its trademark low prices and big-brand bargains to places where it’s not always had a strong presence.
New locations will pop up in busy city centres, transport hubs and even residential areas.
It’s all part of the supermarket’s mission to “bring unbeatable value to even more communities” across the UK, according to bosses.
Joseph Sutton, Asda’s Vice President for Express, Foodservice and Fuel, said:
“We’re delighted to have opened the doors today in Castleford, marking the start of our Express store rollout as we bring Asda’s unbeatable value to new communities across the UK.”
He added: “From top-up essentials to convenient food-on-the-go options, we’re excited to welcome new customers and offer outstanding value.”
Rapid growth
Asda first dipped its toe into the convenience market in 2022, and things have moved fast.
The supermarket now plans to have around 500 Express stores open by the end of the year, with even more coming in 2026.
Each store will also feature electronic shelf-edge labels (a fancy way of saying digital price tags), designed to make life easier for staff and keep prices crystal clear for shoppers.
So whether you’re nipping in for bread and milk or a cheeky lunchtime sandwich, chances are you’ll soon be doing it in an Asda Express near you.
The reductions will be available both in-store and online and will include massive discounts on cupboard staples such as pasta,cookingsauces and tea andcoffee.
Meanwhile, Asda is following three other major supermarkets in introducing a big change to aisles across 186 stores from October.
The supermarket chain has introduced dedicated menopause aisles as has online grocery store Ocado.
This roll-out hopes to “raise awareness and understanding of the menopause experience,” said Matt Pryde, Senior Buying Manager forAsdaToiletries.
She said: “Asda often has an alcohol offer on: buy six bottles and save 25%.
“The offer includes selected bottles with red, white and rose options, as well as prosecco. There are usually lots of popular bottles included, for example, Oyster Bay Hawkes Bay Merlot, Oyster Bay Hawkes Bay Merlot and Freixenet Prosecco D.O.C.
“Obviously, the more expensive the bottles you choose, the more you save.”
Join Facebook groups
The savvy saver also recommends that fans of Asda join Facebook groups to keep in the know about the latest bargains in-store.
Eilish said: “I recommend joining the Latest Deals Facebook Group to find out about the latest deals and new launches in store.
“Every day, more than 250,000 deal hunters share their latest bargain finds and new releases.
“For example, recently a member shared a picture of Asda’s new Barbie range spotted in store.
“Another member shared the bargain outdoor plants she picked up, including roses for 47p, blackcurrant bushes for 14p and topiary trees for 14p.”
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Shoppers can enjoy on-the-go food optionsCredit: asda
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Asda expects to roll out 500 express stores by the end of the yearCredit: asda
MILLIONS of pensioners will be hit with £300 tax bills from HMRC this winter.
From November, around nine million pensioners will begin to see up to £300 land in their bank accounts.
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The benefit is issued by the DWP to help cover fuel costs over winterCredit: Getty
The cash boost comes as part of the Winter Fuel Payment, which is a benefit issued by the DWP to help elderly people with fuel costs over the colder months.
Families can get FREE washing machines, fridges and kids’ beds or £200 payments this summer – and you can apply now
What happens now?
If you did not opt out, HMRC will change your tax code and you will receive a tax code notice letter.
Changing your tax code means that your Winter Fuel Payment will be deducted from your income and paid to HMRC in monthly instalments.
So for example, if you received a £100 Winter Fuel Payment but had an income of £35,000, you will pay back around £9 every month.
You will be charged from April 2026, which is the start of the new tax year.
Households can check if they are over the income thresholds by visiting www.tax.service.gov.uk/guidance/check-if-hmrc-will-take-back-your-winter-payment/start/country.
How to opt out of future charges
The deadline for opting out of the Winter Fuel Payment for 2025 to 2026 has passed.
But you can opt out of getting the benefit for 2026 to 2027 from April 2026.
When it reopens, you will need to complete either an online form or phone the helpline on 0800 731 0160.
If you opt to complete the form online, you will need details such as your National Insurance number.
Who is not eligible for the payment?
You can get a Winter Fuel Payment if you were born before September 22 1959 and live in England or Wales.
But a small group of individuals will not be eligible, including:
live outside England and Wales
were in hospital getting free treatment for the whole of the week of 15 to 21 September 2025 and the year before that
need permission to enter the UK and your granted leave says that you cannot claim public funds
were in prison for the whole of the week of 15 to 21 September 2025
Most people are paid the benefit automatically but if you think you are risk of missing out you can apply.
Are you missing out on benefits?
YOU can use a benefits calculator to help check that you are not missing out on money you are entitled to
Entitledto’s free calculator determines whether you qualify for various benefits, tax credit and Universal Credit.
MoneySavingExpert.com and charity StepChange both have benefits tools powered by Entitledto’s data.
You can use Policy in Practice’s calculator to determine which benefits you could receive and how much cash you’ll have left over each month after paying for housing costs.
Your exact entitlement will only be clear when you make a claim, but calculators can indicate what you might be eligible for.
The boxers would make the perfect Christmas gift for men, or as a treat to yourself.
Read more Amazon Prime Day
Amazon’s Big Deal Days sale is running until tomorrow, but as one of the bestsellers so far, it’s likely that all sizes will be gone before the deal expires.
For more of the best discounts, read our roundup of the best Prime Day deals, which we’re constantly updating with more deals.
Amazon Prime Day: the 10 best deals
The Amazon Prime Big Deal Days sale kicks off today and runs until midnight tomorrow (Wednesday 8th October) – here’s our pick of the best deals.
*If you click on a link in this boxout we will earn affiliate revenue
Amazon Fire TV Stick HD, £19.99 (was £39.99) – buy here
Poounur Fitness Smartwatch, £23.99 (was £129.99) – buy here
Ninja 7.6L Foodi Dual Zone Digital Air Fryer, £119 (was £218.99) – buy here
BaByliss Air Style 1000 £29.99 (was £75) – buy here
LKOUY Portable Charger, £12.99 (was £59.99) – buy here
The classic designer boxers have received brilliant ratings from shoppers, with over 5,700 five-star reviews on the Amazon website.
One wrote: “I recently purchased these Calvin Klein underwear for my partner, and he’s extremely pleased with the quality, comfort, and fit.
From the moment they arrived, I could tell they were made from high-quality materials, and they definitely live up to the reputation Calvin Klein has for premium undergarments.
The fit is absolutely spot-on, and my partner says they are some of the most comfortable underwear he has ever worn.”
Another added: “The fit is so precise it feels like Calvin Klein himself took my measurements.
Five stars is an insult, these deserve their own constellation.”
Having tested plenty of the market’s best noise-cancelling headphones myself, I know how rare it is to see this spec list at this sort of price.
With 4-mic active noise cancelling, they block out the world so you can sink into your playlists, podcasts or plane movies in peace.
Battery life clocks in at a generous 22 hours, and the Rapid Charge feature earns you enough juice for three hours of listening on just a ten-minute charge.
They’re cleverly built too, with easy controls for calls, volume and tracks right on the earcup, and Tile tracking tech baked in so you can hunt them down in seconds if they go missing.
They fold flat, collapse down for travel, and even come with a bonus USB-C charging cable, which is a small but handy extra that makes them feel like a real all-rounder.
More audio savings
On the hunt for headphone deals? Prime Day’s providing big savings on top audio brands from.
GET ready, Prime members! Amazon’s next major sales event is just hours away.
In recent years, Prime members have been treated to two exclusive sales – Prime Day in July and Prime Big Deal Days, which typically takes place in October.
Amazon’s Prime subscription service gives you access to a treasure trove of benefits
Amazon Prime Day deals
Amazon’s last Prime Day sale kicked off on July 8 and ran for four days, ending on July 11.
We also spotted plenty of deals on Amazon devices such as Echo speakers, Fire TVs, and Ring security systems, plus major price drops on top brands and trending tech products, such as dash cams, and we’re predicting similar savings next week.
It’s the last major sales event from Amazon ahead of Black Friday – so make sure you don’t miss out, especially if you’re hoping to get a head start on your Christmas shopping or pick up a few affordable winter essentials.
Just remember: to take advantage of the deals, you’ll need an Amazon Prime subscription (there’s a 30-day free trial), currently costing £8.99 per month or £95 per year.
Jump to…
When does Amazon Prime Day 2025 start?
Amazon’s second Prime Day sale of the year, Prime Big Deal Days, will take place on October 7, 2025.
The two-day shopping event ends on October 8, 2025.
In 2024, Amazon Prime Big Deal Days ran from October 8 to 9.
Amazon Prime Day: The best deals live now
We’ve rounded up a wide range of deals you can shop right now.
Best Amazon home deals
Prime Day is the perfect time to pick up big-name brands for lessCredit: Amazon
Treadmill Walking Pad Running Machine, £149.99 for Prime members (was £599.99) – buy here
LEENON Dehumidifiers for Home, £109.99 (was £159.99) –buy here
Amazon Smart Air Quality Monitor (Newest gen), £26.99 (was £69.99) – buy here
Alexander Graham 3 Tier Heated Clothes Airer Dryer, £92.65 (was £109) – buy here
Slumberdown Sleepy Nights Electric Blanket King Size, £32.60 (was £42.99) – buy here
Slumberdown Feels Like Down King Size Duvet 13.5 Tog, £21.56 (was £31.19) – buy here
Yankee Candle Scented Candle Vanilla Cupcake Large Jar, £16.99 (was £29.99) – buy here
LEGO Botanicals Orchid, £29.99 (was £44.99) – buy here
LEGO Harry Potter Book Nook: Hogwarts Express Set with a Train Toy, £67.99 (was £89.99) – buy here
LEGO Halloween Barn, £9.99 (was £12.99) – buy here
Monopoly Harry Potter Edition, £21.99 (was £37.99) – buy here
MEGA Pokémon Charizard Action Figure, £14.99 (was £22.99) – buy here
Paw Patrol Adventure Bay Bath Playset, £19.99 (was £29.99) – buy here
PAW Patrol Fire Rescue Command Center with Marshall Figure, £37.49 (was £49.99) – buy here
AOLEVA Wooden Afternoon Tea Set for Toddler, £14.75 (was £17.35) – buy here
Pukomc 36/60in Toddler Trampoline for Kids, £26.59 (was £49.99) – buy here
LeapFrog Build-a-Slice Pizza Cart, £39.99 (was £59.99) – buy here
Best Prime Day deals on Amazon services
During the sales event, Amazon offers promotional deals and free trials on several services, including Prime.
Here are just a few of our favourite deals you can snap up today:
When was the last Prime Day event?
The last Prime Day sale took place between July 8 and July 11, 2025, giving bargain hunters four days to shop exclusive deals.
Prime members were treated to thousands of discounts across everything from tech and beauty to home essentials and fashion, with many items hitting their lowest-ever prices.
Here are the dates of past Prime Day sales:
2015: 15 July
2016: 12 July
2017: 11-12 July
2018: 17-18 July
2019: 15-16 July
2020: 13-14 October
2021: 21-22 June
2022: 12-13 July
2023: 11-12 July
2024: 16-17 July
2025: 8-11 July
Do I need to be a Prime member to take part in Prime Day?
Never been a member before? You’re in luck – Amazon offers a 30-day free trial for newbies.
This essentially gives you full access to the mammoth sale and all the Prime perks, without spending a penny.
Just be sure to set a reminder – you’ll need to cancel before the 30-day trial ends to avoid being charged the £8.99 monthly fee.
If you’re planning to keep Prime long-term, you can save by opting for the annual membership at £95.
How much is Amazon Prime?
An Amazon Prime membership costs £8.99 per month or £95 for the whole year – but with all the perks on offer, it could save you a fortune.
Amazon’s yearly subscription service gives you access to a treasure trove of benefits, from quick delivery to binge-worthy telly and exclusive discounts.
The annual membership works out cheaper than paying monthly, saving you nearly £13 over the year – perfect if you’re planning to stick with Prime long-term.
Not sure if it’s worth splashing the cash? Amazon offers a 30-day free trial for new members (or anyone who hasn’t been a member in the last 12 months).
This means you can enjoy all the Prime perks, including access to the Amazon sale, without spending a penny – just remember to cancel before the 30 days are up if you don’t want to be charged.
The mega-sale features a mix of different deal types, including:
“Deals of the day,” which last a limited time – or vanish even quicker if stock runs out.
Limited “lightning deals” which appear and disappear in the blink of an eye once stock is gone.
Some offers (particularly Amazon’s own devices) will stick around for the full sale period.
How long will Prime Day 2025 deals last?
As mentioned above, Prime Big Deal Days is a two-day event that will take place between October 7 and 8, 2025.
The sale is slightly shorter than July’s Prime Day event, which gave shoppers four days of unmissable deals.
It was the biggest Prime Day event to date, with customers saving billions on deals across more than 35 product categories.
Our top tip? If you spot something you’ve been eyeing up with a massive discount, grab it quickly.
Hesitate and you’ll likely miss out – these deals wait for no one!
Does Amazon have Prime Day deals on everything?
Prime Day is a shopaholic’s dream, with discounts across virtually every Amazon department.
Here are several categories worth checking out:
Whether you’re shopping for yourself or hunting for gifts, you’ll find something on sale in whatever category catches your eye.
Can students take part in Prime Day?
Yes, students can get in on all the Prime Day bargains.
Amazon offers students a special Prime Student membership that comes with the same perks as regular Prime but at a serious discount – just £4.49 monthly.
Even better, students get an incredible six-month free trial (compared to the normal 30 days), giving you access to all the Prime Day deals without spending a penny.
To qualify, you’ll need:
A valid university email address
Proof of enrollment
The student discount lasts for four years or until you graduate (whichever comes first) – making this one of the best bargains going for cash-strapped students.
How do I cancel my Amazon Prime 30-day free trial after Prime Day?
If you’re taking advantage of an Amazon Prime trial to grab Prime Day bargains, you’ll need to cancel before your 30 days are up to avoid being charged the full membership fee.
Luckily, cancelling is a doddle – here’s exactly how to do it:
On your phone or tablet:
Open the Amazon app and tap the profile icon at the bottom
Tap ‘Your Account’
Select ‘Manage Prime Membership’
Tap ‘Manage Membership’ at the top
Hit ‘Update, cancel and more’
Scroll down and tap ‘End membership’
On your computer:
Head to Amazon.co.uk/gp/primecentral
Click ‘Update, cancel, and more’ below ‘Membership’
Click ‘End membership’
Select the yellow ‘Cancel My Benefits’ button
Click ‘Continue to Cancel’
Confirm by clicking ‘Cancel Membership’
Even after cancelling, you’ll still keep all your Prime benefits until the end of your trial period.
You’ll see the exact end date displayed on the screen after cancelling.
If you end up forgetting to cancel and get charged, Amazon may offer a full refund if you haven’t used any Prime benefits since the trial ended.
How often is Amazon Prime Day?
Amazon Prime Day typically takes place once a year in July.
The retail giant also hosts a second major sales event in October, known as Prime Big Deal Days.
In addition to these two events, Amazon runs regular sales throughout the year, including a Spring Sale in March.
The retailer also offers unbeatable deals during Black Friday and Cyber Monday, so there are plenty of opportunities to save.
