EVERY few months you can grab free tickets to the races at racecourses like Doncaster and Ayr – but only if you’re a Sun Club member.
Once you sign up to Sun Club, you can benefit from a range of exclusive, members-only offers.
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Sun Club members can claim complementary racing tickets four times a year
These include free darts tickets, 50% off West End shows, money off of London attraction tickets, plus early access to £9.50 holidays and more.
It’s really easy to sign up – simply click the button below to sign up to the £1.99 monthly membership, or bag a year for just £12.
Right now there’s a range of free race days for Sun Club members to make the most of, where you can bag four tickets for races every few months.
We’ve put together all of the race days coming up in the calendar for Sun Club members to pick from – plus the best things to do nearby, so you can make the most of your travels there.
Gents Evening 2026 at Fontwell Park Racecourse, West Sussex Fri, 24 Apr 2026 at 3:15pm
Fontwell Park describe this raceday as “The Ultimate Lads Day Out”, and ask guests to think Peaky Blinders and dress up dapper for a charmingly fun day.
Fontwell Park in West Sussex is also the only racecourse in the UK with a figure of eight-shaped steeplechase, which requires some amazing skill from the jockeys and is a joy to watch.
Make the most of dressing up posh and explore the Arundel Castle and Gardens, an 11th-century castle surrounded by 38 acres of gardens.
Saturday Evening – April Flat Racing 2026 at Doncaster Racecourse Sat, 25 Apr 2026 at 2:35pm
This April Flat Turf Racing offers an exciting way to watch a straight mile sprint live, plus there’s even 50% off draught drinks and £10 off bottles of fizz for the first hour after the gates open.
Doncaster Racecourse offers fun for all the family, with live entertainment and food and drinks stalls to explore.
Doncaster Racecourse is one of the oldest in Britain, putting on world-class races since the 1500’s – and you could bag a historic day of fun there for free if you’re signed up to Sun Club.
Nearby top attractions include Yorkshire Wildlife Park and the South Yorkshire Aircraft Museum, should you wish to make a day of it.
Country & Western Racenight 2026 at Southwell Racecourse Sat, 25 Apr 2026 at 4:00pm
Yeehaw! Don your cowboy hat and boots for a country-themed night at the races with this last-minute racing night offer.
Expect live renditions of Dolly Parton classics by a tribute act, followed by a night of dancing to DJ tunes.
There’s plenty to do nearby too, like wandering The Workhouse, a popular National Trust site.
Four-Legged Friends Raceday at Nottingham Racecourse Sun, 26 Apr 2026 at 12:15pm
No need to leave your furry friend at home with this dog-friendly race day at the esteemed Nottingham Racecourse.
You can even enter your pet in a range of competitions, which include Loveliest Lady and Best Rescue.
If you’re staying for the weekend, take your furry friend on a walk through the beautiful grounds of Wollaton Hall.
Doncaster Racecourse is one of Britain’s oldest and most popular racecoursesCredit: Doncaster RacecourseTake a visit to the nearby dog-friendly grounds of Wollaton Hall whilst you’re thereCredit: Getty Images – Getty
May Racedays
RSA Syndicate Evening Racing at Huntingdon Racecourse Tue, 19 May 2026 at 4:30pm
Race days at Huntingdon in Cambridgeshire make for a spectacular day out.
The home of the Peterborough Chase offers other fun events throughout the year, such as their RSA Syndicate Evening Racing, where you can bag a free ticket this May as a Sun Club member.
Spend the day beforehand having a nosy in Cambs Lock Antiques or the Cromwell Museum.
Tennent’s Raceday at Ayr Racecourse Wed, 20 May 2026 at 12:10pm
Ayr is Scotland’s premier racecourse, home to massive events like the Scottish Grand National and Ayr Gold Cup.
The Tennent’s Raceday is one of the venue’s biggest midweek racing events, with plenty of friendly competition and top-tier hospitality.
There’s plenty to do nearby too, like strolling the historic Auld Brig or visiting the town centre to pop in some traditional pubs.
Feel Good Friday Racing at Carlisle Racecourse Fri, 29 May 2026 at 1:10pm
Thoroughbred horse racing venue Carlisle Racecourse are running a Feel Good Friday race day, where you can expect an afternoon packed with plenty of races and also music from a live DJ.
This is the only Friday in the racecourse’s racing calendar, so make sure to bag it whilst you can by signing up to Sun Club.
Stay the weekend and explore two mega historical sites: Carslisle Castle and the epic Hadrian’s Wall.
There are even costume character races at the Family Sunday Raceday at Ayr RacecourseCredit: Ayr RacecourseYou could stay in Carslile for the weekend and visit the nearby Hadrian’s WallCredit: Alamy
June Racedays
Virtus Property Race Night at Warwick Racecourse Wed, 3 Jun 2026 at 4:30pm
The Virtus Property Race Night offers evening races under the lights, plus access to bars and the food market.
This evening also includes access to the Grandstand, winner’s enclosure, pre-parade and parade ring, too.
Spend the day beforehand at Warwick Castle, where you can see exciting shows from falconry to live jousting.
Fiver Friday Evening Racing at Market Rasen Racecourse Fri, 12 Jun 2026 at 12:05pm
Head to Market Rasen Racecourse for a family-friendly evening packed with exciting races – plus under 18’s get to go for free.
Market Rasen Racecourse is a beautiful site in the Lincolnshire Wolds, which held its first race in 1924.
The Lincolnshire Wolds are an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and offer plenty of scenic hiking and walking trails.
July Racedays
Family Sunday Raceday at Ayr Racecourse Sun, 5 Jul 2026 at 12:00pm
The day will include seven races, family-friendly entertainment, and even a mascot race where colourful characters will compete.
Turn the weekend into a family staycation and meet the animals at Ayr Farm Park or visit the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum.
Glasgow Fair Family Raceday at Ayr Racecourse Mon, 20 Jul 2026 at 12:00pm
The Glasgow Fair Family Raceday sees various owners and trainers put their horses to the test on the grounds.
There will be seven races, as well as free entertainment – plus kids go free.
Other things to do nearby include seeing the ruins of Greenan Castle or takig a stroll along Ayr Beach.
Ayr Racecourse is the premier racecourse of Scotland, as it hosts the coutry’s only Grade 1 trackCredit: PAThere’s plenty more to see and do in Ayr, including the Robert Burns Birthplace MuseumCredit: Alamy
How to bag your free racing tickets
How to sign up to the Sun Club Membership Programme:
Step 1: To book your racing tickets join Sun Club now for just £1.99 a month.
Step 2: Then head to the Offers Hub Racing Page, select the ‘Four Free Racing Tickets’ tile, choose the racecourse you want to go to then click the ‘Book’ button.
Step 3: Confirm your details and then you will receive an email with your tickets.
Once tickets are all claimed, we will open up a limited waiting list for cancellations before showing it as ‘Fully booked’.
18+ UK only. Online access required. Four tickets every three month of active subscription. Racecourses and racedays vary subject to availability. Sun Club: 18+ UK only. New customer offer: £1.99 per month or £12 per per year unless you cancel at least 7 days before your next billing date. For full T&Cs, visitthesun.co.uk/club
FORGET boring beige hotels and predictable pillows.
Whether you’re lounging on a luxe boutique ship, sipping cocktails in a quirky hub, or waking up in a treehouse — these unique escapes are redefining city stays.
These super-cool stays in two of the UK’s capital cities are perfect weekenders, says Sub-Editor Milcah Fajardo.
Fingal, Edinburgh
THE PAD
Anchor down for the night on luxe FingalCredit: Jeremy RataLuxury cabins feature super-king beds, tartan textiles and a balcony with dock viewsCredit: Supplied by Hotel
Roll your suitcase along the Port of Leith, and you’ll soon find yourself at the red carpet to this five-star floating hotel.
From the art deco finishings to the grand ballroom, it exudes glamour.
But even after a £5million glow-up, the former Northern Lighthouse Board ship retains its history, preserved in the Engine Room and nautical details.
Luxury cabins feature super-king beds, tartan textiles and a balcony with dock views.
Plus, the jade-green bathroom with brass taps and rain shower is like something from my Pinterest board.
Meanwhile, The Lighthouse restaurant is award-winning for good reason.
Beneath the hammered gold ceiling, we dine on truffle scrambled eggs on toast, £15, and porridge brûlée, £9.50, for breakfast.
Dinner is superb, too, as we tuck into delicate duck ravioli with wild mushrooms, sage and parmesan foam, £15, beef cheek in a périgourdine sauce, £38, and creamy Basque cheesecake with honey ice cream, £11.
EXPLORE
The jade-green bathroom with brass taps and rain shower is like something from my Pinterest boardCredit: Supplied by Hotel
For handmade souvenirs and local eats, Stockbridge Market is open every Sunday.
We defy you to resist the hog-roast buns with apple sauce, £10, or the haggis sausage rolls, £4 (Stockbridgemarket.com).
REFUEL
Sea food and eat it at Badger & CoCredit: Badger & Co/Instagram
Leith eatery Barry Fish does seafood so well that it landed them a spot in the Michelin Guide.
The addictive fish pastrami, £14, and flaky sea trout in a buttery shrimp sauce, £25, won’t disappoint (Barryfish.co.uk).
Also nearby is Alby’s, where hot focaccia sarnies filled with gooey ‘nduja cauliflower cheese, £12.50, and succulent chicken pakora, spiced onions and lettuce, £13.50, are to die for (Albysleith.co.uk).
Tucked away in the centre is games bar Mortal Kocktail – sink a pint with a few rounds on the vintage pinball machines (@Mortalkocktail).
Or experience Scottish cuisine like no other at Badger & Co – sample exquisite Scotsman scallops topped with haggis, neeps and samphire, £14, juicy Highland wagyu burger, £22, and rich blackberry jam teacake, £9.50 (Badgerandco.com).
DON’T MISS
The Johnnie Walker Signature Experience, from £30, is as fascinating as it is boozy.
Learn about the founder and your own whisky palate, then head to the rooftop for a wee dram while gazing at the gorgeous skyline (Johnniewalker.com).
BOOK IT
Double cabins at Fingal cost from £317 B&B (Fingal.co.uk).
Water view of Belfast over the river LaganCredit: Getty Images
Written across the mirror in pink are the words: “Welcome, Milcah. A good story starts here!”
And they’re not wrong.
Rooms at this central spot are minimalist, but come with huge waterfall showers, Lily O’Brien’s chocs and very handy rain macs.
Refreshing welcome cocktails of gin, elderflower and cranberry set the tone, as does the vibrant lobby, where industrial chic meets playful pop art.
Later, the Wake-Up Call, £11 – a poitín-spiked espresso martini – pairs well with loaded nachos, £10.50, and saucy barbecue wings, £9, in the bar.
Come morning, we find a buzzing breakfast service with a handful of fry-up options and a continental spread.
EXPLORE
Rooms at Moxy Belfast City are minimalist, but come with huge waterfall showers, Lily O’Brien’s chocs and very handy rain macsCredit: Supplied by Moxy Belfast City
Nearby, St George’s Market is home to stalls selling everything from vinyl and vintage wares to Cuban street food – make a beeline for Belfast Bap Co’s humongous bacon rolls, £9.
Next, ride the hop-on-hop-off bus, £19, to stop by the peaceful Botanic Gardens, learn all about the Troubles at Ulster Museum (Ulstermuseum.org), spot incredible street murals and take in the poignant Peace Walls (City-sightseeing.com).
Finally, at Thompson Dock you’ll find Titanic Distillers – the city’s first whisky distillery since Prohibition. Discover the craft and sample it on a one-hour tour, £25 (Titanicdistillers.com).
REFUEL
The Morning Star does treats including stout-and-treacle-braised beefCredit: Morning Star /Instagram
Hit the bustling Cathedral Quarter for excellent pubs.
Don’t miss Kelly’s Cellars – built in 1720, it is Belfast’s oldest pub, and you can expect lively traditional performances alongside your Guinness, £5.80 (Kellyscellars.co.uk).
Head upstairs at The Morning Star, a short stroll away, for treats including stout-and-treacle-braised beef with hispi cabbage, champ and bordelaise sauce, £24, in the classy dining room (Themorningstarbar.co.uk/the-lounge).
Finish your night in opulent townhouse bar Margot, sipping an indulgent Four Storeys cocktail – a mix of bourbon, amaro, cola syrup and chocolate bitters, £13 – in the snazzy leopard-print snug (Margotbelfast.com).
DON’T MISS
Finish your night in opulent townhouse bar Margot, sipping an indulgent Four Storeys cocktailCredit: Margot Belfast/Instagram
At Titanic Belfast, travel back in time to the ship’s construction and even listen to the last SOS messages from its crew – it’s both immersive and compelling.
Double rooms at Moxy Belfast City cost from £109 B&B (Marriott.com).
Meanwhile, Lifestyle Editor Catherine Bennion-Pedley found a tree-mendous family break in the capital of the north.
Treehouse Hotel, Manchester
THE PAD
Climb into bed at Treehouse ManchesterCredit: Simon BrownTreehouse is all stained-glass features, cascading foliage and cute birdhouses in the heart of the cityCredit: Simon Brown
This place is all stained-glass features, cascading foliage and cute birdhouses in the heart of the city.
Kids are given wooden tiles to illustrate, then add to the decor, while screening room Flix plays family films in the school hols.
At eatery Pip, Old Winchester gougères, £5, and Lancashire hotpot, £26, steal the show, as do the sherry-based cobblers, £11, while children will be suitably chuffed with home-made fish and chips, £9.
Come morning, roll out of bed for Derbyshire oatcakes with ham and eggs, before hitting shopping heaven on Market Street.
EXPLORE
Have a ball at Bubble PlanetCredit: SuppliedDive into a giant ballpit, crack the dazzling light maze and stand inside an actual bubbleCredit: Supplied
From Squid Game to Paw Patrol, Immersive Gamebox in the Arndale Centre offers challenges to conquer as a team, and it’s quite a workout!
One-hour games cost from £28 per adult and £18 per child (Immersivegamebox.com).
Equally close is the Museum of Illusions, with its mind-bending displays and photo opps aplenty.
Entry costs £25.50 for adults, £21.50 for over-fives (Moimanchester.com).
Elsewhere, dive into a giant ballpit, crack the dazzling light maze and stand inside an actual bubble at Bubble Planet.
Tickets cost £16.90 per adult, £12.90 for over-threes (Bubble-planet.com).
REFUEL
Buzzy foodhall Mackie Mayor will please the whole crew – the barbecue burger at Mumma’s Fried Chicken, £12.50, and Pico’s Tacos’ frozen margaritas, £17 for two, are standouts (Mackie-mayor.co.uk).
Need a post-shop sugar hit?
Head to Haute Dolci Deansgate for pistachio-cream-smothered pancakes with raspberries and gelato, £12.50 (Hautedolci.co.uk).
Or scoff top-notch paccheri Genovese – large pasta tubes tossed in beef ragu – £16.90, and pizzas at Vincenzo Trattoria (Vincenzomanchester.co.uk).
DON’T MISS
Feel a piece of the moon, program an interplanetary rover and discover what the planets smell like at the Science And Industry Museum’s new Horrible Science: Cosmic Chaos exhibition, £10 for over-fours (Scienceandindustrymuseum.org.uk).
ALL eyes are on Europe this summer, with cruise lines slashing the price of voyages around the Med and close to home.
With some destinations off-limits right now, holiday sites like iglu.com have recorded a surge in interest for locations such as Northern Europe, the Arctic and the British Isles.
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We have five of the best cruise deals for this summer including UK sailings and Greek island hoppingCredit: CunardSantorini features on the Best of Greece voyageCredit: Getty
Plus big names including Celebrity Cruises have up to £800 off staterooms.
David Gooch, boss at iglu.com, says: “Holidaymakers remain committed to travelling, but are carefully choosing their destinations.”
You’ll need to be quick to lock in those bargains, though.
Sophie Swietochowski shares her pick of the top summer cruise deals to bag right now:
YOU can save £55pp on this two-week sailing around Spain’s sun-drenched coastline, ticking off the hotspots of Cadiz and Barcelona, where you can shop and gorge on tapas to your heart’s content.
Best of all, you won’t need to hop on a plane beforehand, as it sets sail straight from Southampton.
Spain from Southampton on the Queen AnneCredit: Cunard
Step on board Cunard’s Queen Anne, home to 15 restaurants, a zen spa with a wellness studio and more than enough entertainment to keep you amused.
Exclusive to this ship is the Bright Lights Society, a classy velvet-clad venue where passengers can cosy down with a glass of fizz and live musical performances.
GO: The 14-night Sun-Kissed Spain itinerary costs from £1,314pp, departing Southampton on August 16 to Lisbon, Palma de Mallorca, Barcelona, Cartagena, Malaga and Cadiz. See cruise.co.uk or call 0870 990 8824.
BEST OF GREECE
HOW does a balmy week hopping around the rugged islands of Greece sound?
On board the glossy Celebrity Infinity, you’ll tick off the ancient city of Athens, where you can explore sandy ruins before sailing over to Rhodes, which boasts even more fascinating history.
The ship then makes its way to Ephesus in Turkey and Santorini and Hydra in Greece, with a final stop in Mykonos, loved by celebs and famous for more than just its nightlife, with stunning sandy beaches dotted across the island.
If you’re new to cruising, Celebrity Infinity is the perfect ship size for first timers, with room for just over 2,000 passengers and enough space for exploring — but it’s not so large you’ll feel overwhelmed.
GO: The seven-night Best of Greece voyage now costs £799pp (with discounts applied), departing Athens on July 4. Flights cost from £99pp.
YOU’LL be spoilt for choice when it comes to late fun on board Princess Cruises’ Enchanted Princess.
A buzzing Vegas-style casino sits alongside swanky cocktail bars and an epic two-storey theatre hosting concerts, movie nights and sports event screenings.
See the Colosseum in Rome on Western Med tripCredit: Getty
There are cracking kids’ clubs, for those travelling with little ones and teens.
Meanwhile parents can unwind with a daiquiri on a cabana in adults-only The Sanctuary.
In 14 nights you’ll tick off some of the most scenic Greek Islands, Croatian gems and some of Italy’s top foodie spots, including Naples, home to the best pizza in the world — at least the Sun Travel team think so.
GO: The 14-Day Mediterranean, Aegean & Adriatic voyage is from £1,339pp, departing Civitavecchia on August 18 and calling at Corfu, Dubrovnik, Kotor, Naples, Salerno, Santorini, Kusadasi and Katakolon. See princess.com.
NORWEGIAN FJORDS
NORWAY’S bright blue fjords and ice-capped mountains aren’t just for winter.
In fact these magical landscapes look even more spectacular during the summer months, under the sun’s glow.
The spectacular scenery in NorwayCredit: Getty
On this seven-day voyage on board MSC Virtuosa, you’ll get to explore Lerwick, The Shetland Islands’ only town, then experience the spectacular silver sand beach on Maloy and cascading waterfalls in Flam.
Before returning to Southampton, the ship calls at Kristiansand, known for its glorious sandy beaches and fresh seafood.
While on board MSC Virtuosa, swing by the spaceship-themed Starship Club, where a friendly robot bartender named Rob can whip you up a cocktail.
GO: The seven-night Norwegian Fjords from Southampton cruise now costs from £792pp, departing Southampton on July 18. See iglucruise.com.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN
TICKING off some of Europe’s top bucket-list destinations, this week-long Mediterranean sailing is great for adventurous families keen to explore key landmarks but with time to unwind on board.
THE crisis in Iran has had a knock-on effect around the world from the rising cost of fuel, an increase in energy bills, and where to go on your next holiday.
But when it comes to the price of summer breaks this year, the good news is that they’ve barely moved – and in some cases, the cost of holidays have even dropped by hundreds of pounds.
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Three destinations in Italy, including the Amalfi Coast, have seen price dropsCredit: Getty Holidays to the Dominican Republic have dropped by £130pp on averageCredit: Alamy
Follow The Sun’s award-winning travel team onInstagramandTiktokfor top holiday tips and inspiration.
On average holidays are up £23, but TravelSupermarket has also revealed that surprisingly, hundreds of popular destinations have actually seen prices fall.
TravelSupermarket has found that some holidays at certain destinations are actually cheaper than when the Iran conflict began.
Here are the top five destinations with the biggest price drops in the summer holidays based on a seven-night holiday between April and September, 2026.
At the very top with the biggest price drop is the Neapolitan Riviera in Italy.
Here, holidays are sitting at an average price of £905 per person, which has a price drop of £232.
It’s where you’ll find beautiful and colourful towns perched on clifftops – with spectacular views of Mount Vesuvius in some cases.
Specifically, it’s where you can explore the clifftops of Sorrento, the island of Capri and Ischia in the Bay of Naples.
Other places in Italy make it into the top five too – the Amalfi Coast and the Italian Lakes.
The Amalfi Coast is a popular destination with millions of tourists who flock there every summer for its great weather and tasty food.
Now, holidays on average there have dropped by £126 per person, with the average price of a break being £1,073.
At the Italian Lakes, which is where you’ll find the beautiful Lake Garda, Como, Maggiore and Orta – prices have dropped on average by £122pp.
Now, the average cost of a holiday here per person during the summer is £714.
For more on holidays, here are our favourite TUI breaks…
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Globales Montemar, Ibiza
This hotel sits on a quieter side of Ibiza, so you can soak up the island’s natural beauty away from the party crowds. This family-friendly option has a large pool that curves around the resort, surrounded by plenty of sunbeds, plus a kids zone. Here you’re just a 10-minute stroll from a horseshoe-shaped bay with clear waters.
This resort is set up like a small village, with low-rise buildings set among palm trees and six different swimming pools. Entertainment spans from DJ nights to bingo and live sports screenings, plus sports on offer include water polo, rifle shooting and shuffleboard.
This hotel sits on Majorca’s Cala Gran Beach, a beautiful cove just a short drive away from the coastal town centre, with its trinket shops and relaxed bars. The hotel itself has all the activities and entertainment you’d expect, including bingo and live music – as well as some unique extras like mini golf and archery. Week-long breaks start from £478pp.
The Riu Baobab is the only TUI hotel in the country, sat on the Pointe Sarane coastline. There are the four huge pools overlooking the beach, swim up pool bars and a copious amount of sunloungers to choose from. The sushi at the Asian Dorayaki and the pasta dishes at Veneto are the highlight meals of this standout hotel. Week-long breaks start from £883pp.
If you’re looking for a long-haul destination, check out the Dominican Republic.
TravelSupermarket worked out that the average holiday here is now £1,364pp – a drop of £130pp.
It has cracking weather, white sand beaches, beautiful resorts and lively towns like Punta Cana on the eastern side of the island.
The Dominican Republic is also the cheapest in the Caribbean – the average price of coffee is £1.53 and a meal at an inexpensive restaurant can start from £4.90, according to Wise.
In comparison, a meal in Barbados is around £14.50 and a coffee is around £3.32.
The Canary Island of La Palma is incredible affordable this summerCredit: Getty
Spain
If quick and easy holidays are more your bag for 2026, then check out La Palma.
It’s not the most well-known of the Canary Islands and is much quieter too.
It doesn’t have the enormous resorts, so if a calmer, nature-inspired holiday is on the cards, it’s a great option.
The main town is Santa Cruz La Palma which has bright coloured buildings, cobbled streets and wooden balconies that look over the black-sand beach.
Holidays here have dropped by £120 and can be on average as cheap as £474pp.
Chris Webber, Head of Holidays and Deals at TravelSupermarket, said: “Despite the current uncertainty, summer holiday prices haven’t moved dramatically — up by just £23 on average across all destinations.
“For holidaymakers sitting on the fence, that’s a signal worth paying attention to. Prices won’t stay like this indefinitely, and with so many destinations actually seeing prices fall — places like Majorca, Corfu and Turkey — now could be a smart time to book ahead of any increases.
“Holiday companies are keen to get bookings moving, and that’s likely filtering through into some very competitive pricing right now.”
These are the 20 holiday destinations that have fallen in price, according to TravelSupermarket…
Here are the 20 destinations that have fallen in price – and the average amount less per person…
EUROSTAR has launched another huge flash sale with tickets starting at just £35 – but you’ll have to be quick. If you’re looking for your next European getaway, now’s the perfect time to book. The flash sale is across all Eurostar destinations, but the reduced tickets are only too five specific European cities. Travellers can…
WHITE sand beaches, enormous castles, and peaceful canals – no I’m not describing France or Spain or Portugal as you can find all of this in the UK without spending much money.
Sometimes we Brits don’t appreciate what we have on our doorstep, and let’s face it, exploring the country can be costly – but here are some truly bucket list spots that you can see on a budget.
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You can see lots of what the UK has to offer on a budget – like walking along the coastCredit: AlamyThe new coastal path makes exploring paths around the seaside easy to navigateCredit: Alamy
Richard Madden has been exploring the country on foot, by rail, road even boat for his new book Great British Journeys – and has given Sun Travel an insight into his favourite finds.
Richard says: “Obviously travelling on a budget depends where you start from – but walking, whether it’s on the coast or in the countryside is free.”
By foot
He started by saying: “I was brought up around the Lizard Peninsula, and here are some incredible places to walk to, like Kynance Cove.
“In Sussex, my most favourite walk is along Seven Sisters which is spectacular with Cuckmere Haven, where the estuary meets the sea.
On the fastest services, the full length of the journey takes around 1hr38 and one-way tickets can cost as little as £7.70.
Richard says: “That whole line is beautiful with coastal views and castles.
“You don’t even have to do the whole thing – just go on a couple of stops like to Alnmouth, or go further up and you’ll pass Dunstanburgh Castle.”
On the full stretch of the line, passengers will also see the Tyne Bridge, Lindisfarne Castle, the Edinburgh skyline and Firth of Forth.
Further south, another popular route is onboard the Bluebell Line which is just around the corner from National Trust‘s Sheffield Park.
Tickets for adults to board the heritage steam train start from £27 and when you book, check for children’s rates which are just £1 with their ‘kids for a quid’ offer.
The West Highland Line, also dubbed the ‘Hogwarts Express‘ is another incredibly scenic journey.
However if you’re on more of a budget but still want to get the views, hop on a public service line instead.
A ticket from Fort William to Mallaig which crosses the Glenfinnan Viaduct, typically starts around £9.20.
You can cross the Glenfinnan Viaduct on a train for under £10Credit: Alamy
When exploring the UK – why not check into some of our favourite hotels?
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Margate House, Kent
This stylish boutique hotel is in a seaside townhouse, a short walk from Margate’s coolest bars and restaurants. Decked out with plush velvet sofas, flickering candles and striking independent art, inside feels like a warm welcome home. Rooms are stunning, especially the ones that give you a glimpse of the sea.
The Alan looks extremely grand, built into a beautiful Grade II listed building. Spread across six floors, with 137 rooms, each one looks like a fancy design magazine. From the concrete coffee tables to the pink plastered walls, the industrial-inspired designs perfectly replicate the history of the city.
This historic hotel has welcomed the likes of Charles Dickens and Lillie Langtry through its doors. Rooms have richly-patterned carpets with super soft bed linen and premium toiletries in the bathroom. Go for a superior room for extra goodies including bathrobes and snack boxes.
This Cambridge hotel is in the ideal spot, within walking distance to bars, shops and hotspots like the university colleges and Parker’s Piece. The inside couldn’t be prettier, with huge stained glass windows, grand chandeliers, and rooms with enormous clawfoot bath tubs.
Waterways and canal boating are a fun way to see the countryCredit: Alamy
By Boat
To explore the country, most of us will hop into the car, but Britain is so well connected through its waterways.
Richard is no stranger to canal boating and reveals some of his favourite journeys to do around the country.
He says: “The Shropshire Union Canal is one I’ve done on quite a few occasions.
“That one goes to Cheshire, and you get these fantastic views of the Roman walls, so it’s a particularly good one.
“Another that I’ve done quite a few times is the River Wye, on the border of Wales.
“It’s Wordsworth country and it’s got incredibly beautiful surroundings in that area like Tintern Abbey which go past on the water.
“To make it better, there are lots of pubs along riversides, so you can moor up and go in.”
One very famous waterways spot is the Leeds and Liverpool Canal, where you’ll find the Bingley Five Rise Locks.
Renting a 6-berth narrowboat for a week generally costs between £900 and £1,500.
If you split that between a group of six, it can work out as little as £21pppn – but this varies depending on the season.
Richard also has some top tips for those planning a staycation or day trip around the UK to reduce the costs.
He says: “My key tip is to work it all out beforehand – the further you book in advance, the cheaper things will be.
“Go through your options as well, like how you’ll travel there and if it’s cheaper to take the bus, or if it’s worth going by train than by car.
“You can consider options like camping to keep costs down, but I would say it’s only worth doing that if you enjoy it – don’t if you’re not going to have a good time.
“There are so many different landscapes in the UK and generally, you don’t have to go far to see them.”
Great British Journeys by Richard Madden (National Trust Books, £14.99) is out on April 9.
Richard has travelled across the country finding some gems that you can see on a budgetCredit: Richard Madden
Wemyss Bay where you can wander the gorgeous Inverkip coastal pathCredit: Getty
Most of these routes tick off multiple destinations and you can save buckets on soaring air fares going by foot, car or train and sea.
Sophie Swietochowski has ideas to inspire you . . .
GOOD FOR: FOODIES
ROUTE: Sail Poole to Guernsey then on to Saint-Malo, Normandy before returning to Portsmouth or Dover.
Saint Malo beach in FranceCredit: GettyLe Nautique restaurant is renowned for its seafood, especially the oysters — you can pick up half a dozen for £12.50Credit: Getty
IT takes just three hours to reach Guernsey via ferry — a big win if you’re travelling with youngsters.
Seafood and dairy are the food heroes here and there are plenty of seafront spots to sample them.
Le Nautique restaurant is renowned for its seafood, especially the oysters — you can pick up half a dozen for £12.50.
Expect even more plates of wonderfully fresh fish in Saint-Malo.
From this port city you can then make your way to some of Normandy’s top foodie hotspots, all within a couple of hours’ drive.
Bayeux, which is most famous for housing the historic Bayeux Tapestry, is crammed full of gorgeous apple orchards, hence why cider is a popular drink in these parts.
Ferme Lecornu is right in the city centre and offers a “Royal tasting” experience.
GOOD FOR: COASTAL VIEWS
ROUTE: Sail Holyhead to Dublin, return from Belfast (Larne) to Liverpool.
The idyllic bay at Cushendun, County Antrim, Northern IrelandCredit: Getty
THE rail routes of Ireland are among the most beautiful in the world, offering simply stuinning views of the blustery ocean as you trundle along the cliffside tracks.
This ferry and train-hopping route requires no car — so make sure to celebrate your sustainability efforts with a Guinness or two.
You won’t be hard pushed to find a decent pour in Dublin, although Mulligan’s on Poolbeg Street repor-tedly serves the best — and it’s even attracted a few famous faces in its time, including John F Kennedy and Judy Garland.
Head from one Irish capital to another, catching the train to Belfast.
If you do just one thing here, make sure it’s a Black Taxi Tour that unearths the fascinating history of Belfast’s troubled past.
Then catch the train to Larne, where the scenery gets pretty spectacular — about six miles from the centre you’ll find The Gobbins Cliff Path, overlooking the often ferocious sea.
GOOD FOR: WILDLIFE
ROUTE: Sail Penzance to the Scilly isles – St Mary’s, then Bryher and Tresco, returning back via St Mary’s to Penzance.
Tresco is the second-biggest island of the Isles of ScillyCredit: Getty
KEEP your eyes peeled because your chances of spotting dolphins are always high in both Cornwall’s Penzance and the Isles of Scilly.
Once you’ve caught the ferry over to St Mary’s island, head to Peninnis Head which offers panoramic views of the ocean.
From this high perch you can watch bottlenose dolphins hunting in the choppy waters below.
Hop on the small ferry over to Bryher where even more magnificent coastal creatures await.
We’re talking grey seals, hermit crabs and even puffins.
Your best chance of spotting them is from now until July, so if you’re heading out there, it’s a good idea to pack a decent camera.
From here, make your way over to Tresco and catch some well-deserved downtime on the glorious beaches.
Pentle Bay has previously been named one of the best beaches in the UK thanks to its white sands and peaceful turquoise waters.
GOOD FOR: WHISKY CRAWLS
ROUTE: Sail from Ardrossan to Arran then to Kintyre, on to Cowal then to Wemyss Bay via Bute. If short of time, consider a single-destination option – Oban to the Isle of Mull is just 45 minutes each way.
Head to the Isle of Mull, and sample picturesque Tobermory, home to a very fine single maltCredit: Getty
SCOTLAND blends breathtaking scenery with world-famous whisky — what could be better?
Make your way from the mainland to the Isle of Arran, which has all the unspoilt beauty of the Highlands, but comes with ocean views.
The coastal road wraps all the way around the island in 55 miles and is well worth exploring — with the famous distilleries of Lochranza and Lagg.
Or save those tipples for your next stop in Kintyre peninsula and specifically Campbeltown, otherwise known as the Whisky Capital of the World, because it was once home to over 30 distilleries.
Stay sober enough to take in the views at Cowal and then Bute (sometimes known as the Madeira of Scotland), before finishing your adventure in Wemyss Bay where you can wander the gorgeous Inverkip coastal path.
For a different tasting experience, ferry over from Oban to the Isle of Mull, and sample picturesque Tobermory, home to a very fine single malt.
HOW TO BOOK: Direct Ferries has some excellent tools for planning routes.
The travel site has designed an interactive map that identifies the most convenient port for any journey, with links out to each individual ferry operator to book.
Prices vary per journey, but all ferry journeys mentioned above cost from under £100 per car.
A MAJOR airline has slashed the price of fares by 50% for summer as the Middle East war tumbles demand for long-haul flights.
Etihad is now offering some of the lowest ever prices seen for long-haul flights from the UK for May and June as it kicks off a price war with Gulf airlines.
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Etihad has slashed the price of fares by 50% in hopes that the Middle East conflict will ease next monthCredit: Getty
Travellers can get return economy flights with the gulf airline from London to Sydney, via Abu Dhabi, from £688.
This is almost three times cheaper than flying to the Australian capital with British Airways (BA), via Singapore, on the same dates – which is £1,850 in economy.
The Foreign Office is currently advising against all but essential travel – which doesn’t include holidays – to the United Arab of Emirates amid the ongoing conflict.
But Etihad, which is the official airline of the UAE, appears to be gambling on hopes that the situation in the Middle East will have eased by next month.
An Etihad insider told The Times, which analysed the airline’s prices: “As soon as travel picks up, we want to be back to flying planes 100 per cent full in all cabins, as we were before the conflict. These prices will help.”
The airline is also offering market-leading fares to other popular destinations from the UK, including the Maldives, Tokyo and Bangkok.
Brits can get return economy flights to the Maldives with the airline in May and June from £581 – compared with £3,380 with British Airways.
Flights to Singapore are form £391, but are £980 with BA.
Emirates and Qatar Airways, the other main Gulf airlines, have not cut their prices.
Demand for long-haul flights has plunged since the war in Iran first broke out at the end of February, with flights cancelled and the Foreign Office issuing “do not travel” warnings for countries in the Middle East.
Countries in Europe including Spain have seen demand rise, as Brits look for alternative destinations to travel to.
The UK Foreign Office states: “FCDO advises against all but essential travel to United Arab Emirates.
“Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against advice from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO).”
THE SUN’S £9.50 Hols Agony Aunt, Tracey Kennedy has tried and tested holiday parks across the UK for over 30 years.
Over her decades of staycations, Tracy’s ticked off popular holiday spots from the Isle of Wight, to North Wales, down to Land’s End in Cornwall.
Tracy Kennedy has been taking her family away on budget-friendly staycations for 30 yearsCredit: Tracy Kennedy
It’s fair to say that Tracy knows her stuff when it comes to UK holiday parks – whether it’s how to bag a bargain break, or find the best free and cheap family attractions whilst you’re away.
Over three decades of staying at holiday parks up and down the UK, Tracy has ranked her top five holiday parks based on accommodation, entertainment and location.
Plus she’s sharing all of the hacks she uses to save while she’s away.
We’ve paired each park with the cheapest deal available online, including three-night breaks for two for under £50.
5. Haven Burnham-on-Sea Holiday Village
“This holiday park is in a lovely seaside town in Somerset, and I like it so much that I’ve been back several times.
“My tip for booking a Haven holiday would be to book a Haven Hideaway package.
“These are the cheapest breaks possible, and can cost just £49pp. I paid just £120 for a full week away on a Haven Hideaway.
“However it’s worth noting that Hideaway holidays don’t come with a Play Pass as the standard breaks do, so make sure to check which activities are included at each Haven park, and which you would have to pay extra for”.
Entertainment and activities
“There’s plenty to do here without paying extra for the add-on activities. This site has a lovely arcade, which is cashless apart from the classic 2p machines.
“I wasn’t too keen on it being cashless at first, but once you’ve got your card and have topped it up with as much or little as you want, it’s easy to use.
“As for the evening entertainment, I went last year and it was really quite good. The comedy is especially great.
“With Haven parks, if you make sure to download the app, about 2 weeks before it’ll tell you which activities you can book if you have the Play Passes.
“But you dont need passes for the arcade or evening entertainment, it’s just for swimming and paid activities. They can be nice to have, but you don’t have to get them”.
Haven Burnham-on-Sea Holiday Village has an outdoor pool and caravans looking out to seaCredit: HavenKids will love the indoor splash park and water slide at Haven Burnham-on-Sea Holiday VillageCredit: Haven
Accommodation
“I stayed in a saver caravan, which is the lowest grade, but it still has heating and everything you need.
“I always go for the cheapest I can but that is still nice, and the saver option here is great if you’re looking to stay on a budget“.
Local area
“Burnham is a quiet town, so it can be quite a peaceful place to stay. There’s also a lovely beach and lighthouse in walking distance from the park, as well as a cinema. But mainly this is a great base for exploring.
“Brean is about a 10-minute drive away, and there’s loads to do there. Brean Beach is gorgeous, plus there’s a splash park, Brean Theme Park and an animal farm, so there’s loads to do.
“You’ve also got Cheddar Gorge a half-hour drive away. You can of course try loads of cheese, but there’s really fascinating caves and clifftop walks there, too.
“If you’re willing to drive a bit further, about 40 minutes, you can also visit Wells. There’s loads of medieval historic sites there, like Wells Cathedral as well as the Palace and gardens”.
Bag a cheap stay
You can book a four-night stay in a saver caravan with a Haven Hideaways deal from £49, based on two adults sharing. This deal also comes with a low-deposit option from £30.
Haven Burnham-on-Sea is only 10 minutes away from the beautiful Brean DownCredit: GettyTake a day trip from Burnham to Cheddar Gorge, just a 30-minute drive awayCredit: Getty
4. Riverside Holiday Village, Bleadon, Weston-super-Mare
“I went to this holiday park last year for my 50th, and had such a fantastic time. I have lots of memories coming here with parents, and now I get to bring my kids!
“One of the best things about this park is where it’s located. It’s less than 10 minutes from Weston-super-Mare‘s seafront”.
Entertainment and activities
“This is quite a small site, but it does have a good arcade, restaurant, and entertainment performances.
“There’s no costume characters for the kids, but if you visit in peak season, there’s a pretty packed activity schedule that keeps them busy.
“It’s a very relaxing site if you prefer a peaceful holiday. There’s a beautiful lake to walk around, and you can pop out into Weston whenever you’d like”.
Accommodation
“We stayed in a large Gold caravan, which doesn’t work out to be too expensive once you split the cost between a group of people.
“We paid £650 total, and the Gold caravans can sleep up to six people, so that works out at around £109pp – which isn’t bad at all for a full seven days during the summer holidays.
“We had wrap-around decking which is lovely to sit on and enjoy your coffee in the morning or a drink in the evening.
“I recommend going as a large group and splitting costs so you can try out the nicer accommodation. This is one of the parks where I’d say it’s worth it”.
Riverside Holiday Village is a peaceful escape in the countryside town of BleadonCredit: TripAdvisorIt’s only an 11-minute drive from Bleadon into Weston Super Mare, where there’s an exciting pierCredit: Alamy
Local area
“The surrounding area, Bleadon, is very quiet. There’s just a couple of cosy pubs.
“But if you want a proper day out, then you should drive or catch the bus into Weston-super-Mare itself.
“There’s loads of things to do in Weston. If you want to stick to free things to do, Weston Museum is a great one and has activities for kids.
“Visiting the Grand Pier is a full day out itself – there is a small charge of £2, which is the same for both adults and kids.
“There’s lots of cost-friendly places to eat on the pier, like chip shops, a Costa and a Tiffany’s.
“My favourite though is Revo Kitchen. It’s inside the old Sea Life centre and it has 360-degree views of the sea. It’s dog-friendly, and does amazing, family-friendly food.
“It’s easy to spend the whole day at just the pier. There’s a ball pit, arcade games, fun house, ghost train – loads to do.
“Obviously it can be costly, but there are great-value wristbands available for kids to go on unlimited rides.”
“The Little Kids wristband, with unlimited rides suitable for younger children, costs £15 and lasts all day. The Big Kids wristband costs £20.
“There is also an Ultimate wristband available for £30, which includes unlimited rounds of golf and go-kart races.
“You don’t have to pay the entry fee cost of £2 for those with wristbands. You can buy the wristbands for the Grand Pier ahead of time online“.
Bag a cheap stay
You can book a three-night stay at Riverside Holiday Village in a Purn Gold WF caravan from £169, based on two adults sharing. This deal also offers a low deposit option of £25.
You can book a four-night stay in a saver caravan at Martin Mere Holiday Village from £49Credit: TripAdvisorMartin Mere Holiday Village is a 10-minute drive into the popular seaside resort of BlackpoolCredit: Alamy
3. Martin Mere Holiday Village, Blackpool
“This park is around 10 minutes’ drive into Blackpool, and there is so much to do there for families.
“They have also just had a major upgrade, with a brand-new restaurant, a refreshed Show Bar, and an expanded arcade added”.
Entertainment and activities
“It’s all about the entertainment with Haven. And the best part is that most of it is free.
“There’s an outdoor pool and lazy river, and you can book inflatables for your little ones to use.
“They’ve got plenty of fun things for families with kids like a climbing wall and a giant football dartboard.
“You’ve also got Linked Bingo at 5:15pm every evening, which sometimes has massive cash prizes.
“They’re also adding four new kids shows ready for summer this year”.
Accommodation
“The caravans are spacious, clean and have everything you need. Even the saver caravans are tremendous value for what you get.
“What I like about the accommodation here is that most caravans are only a short walk to the entertainment, which is great if you stay up late”.
You could visit Blackpool Pleasure Beach, with its brand-new ride Aviktas set to open this MayCredit: SuppliedHaven Martin Mere has an outdoor splash park that can be enjoyed in the warmer monthsCredit: Refer to source
Local area
“There is absolutely loads to do in Blackpool. You can even see the tower flashing its lights at night from the park.
“Blackpool can be as cheap or expensive as you like, but I’ve been going for years and found some good ways to save money.
“One of the best-value places to go is Coral Island Arcade, which has a restaurant where kids eat free.
“Once you’re at Coral Island, make sure to pick up any free leaflets that are there. They often have vouchers inside for discounted attractions.
“We picked one up and got a free go on the camel derby – so always look out for leaflets before you book something!
“Some of my other favourite things to do are going up into the tower, where there’s an arcade, the dungeons and a circus inside the tower itself.
“Then of course you’ve got Pleasure Beach – but if you know you want to go, book ahead of time online.
“That way you can pay £30 for entry rather than £60 on the day.
“If you’re wanting to save money on ticking off the paid attractions, there’s a new card where you can do them all for a fixed price called The Blackpool Pass.”
“The Blackpool Pass starts from £35 and includes unlimited entry to eight Blackpool attractions: Madame Tussauds,SEA LIFE,Blackpool Tower Ballroom,Blackpool Tower Eye,Blackpool Tower Dungeon,Blackpool Tower Circus,Gruffalo and Friends Clubhouse and Peter Rabbit: Explore and Play.
“You can expect to save up to 70 per cent on attractions compared to booking individually.”
Bag a cheap stay
You can book a four-night stay in a saver caravan with a Haven Hideaways deal from £49, based on two adults sharing.
This deal also comes with a low-deposit option of £30.
A Platinum caravan at Lyons Robin Hood is a spacious option that comes with a balconyCredit: TripAdvisor
2. Lyons Robin Hood, Rhyl, North Wales
“This site is really up-to-date. It’s recently undergone a £1.5m makeover, with all the new developments set to be fully done in May 2026, ready for your summer holiday!
“Some of my favourite things about this park are the enthusiastic entertainment staff, as well as the food – I always really look forward to the food when holidaying here!”
Entertainment and activities
“The pool here is so good that my youngest went swimming every single day. It has a brand-new splash zone, three super slides and even a spa for the adults.
“It’s just had activities like go-karting added to the list of things to do, and there’s new sports courts and trampolines.
“Ilast went at Halloween and it was just absolutely fantastic, but the entertainment is great year-round too.
“The costume characters come out to meet the kids – all the info on who is coming out when is listed on the wall, so you can meet the characters, comedians and singers.”
Accommodation
“The standard caravans here are slightly different to other holiday parks, for example like at a Haven resort.
“Their highest-ranking option is a platinum. We’ve stayed in platinum and it’s lovely. We had a little bit of a balcony that we had our coffee and drinks on.
“I’ve stayed in three levels of accommodation here, and I liked all of them. Each caravan was clean and spacious, with multiple big bedrooms, so you can’t go wrong here no matter what your budget is.
“I usually like to bring my own food to save money, however the food here is just lovely and definitely worth the money!
“We had cod and chips (£6.95) from the on-site chip shop here and really enjoyed it – in fact, we had it twice because it was that good! Food here is also really good value for money”.
Tracy recommends a sightseeing bus trip from Rhyl to LlandudnoCredit: AlamyTracy Kennedy continues to return to Lyons Robin Hood as one of her top-rated parksCredit: Supplied
Local area
“There’s a beautiful beach just across the road from the park, just remember to bring some snacks, as there’s no cafe or shop to buy food.
“You might see seals here – we saw some on my last visit and I was so excited.
“You can see them bobbing around in the sea, it’s nice to see them out in the open compared to an aquarium.
“Rhyl is just 5 minutes away, and there’s loads to do there. Shops, a massive marine lake, and my favourite – a little train that takes you around.
“Lots of people go crabbing, too…we caught some massive ones!
“A trip into Rhyl could be a free day out if you planned for it. Pack a picnic, wander through its streets, plus there’s even a free attraction: Rhyl Museum and Arts Centre.
“The only thing you would have to pay extra for if you wanted to would be the train, which costs £4 per adult and £3 per child.”
Bag a cheap stay
You can book a three-night stay at Lyons Robin Hood in a Bronze three-bedroom caravan from £111.30, based on two adults sharing.
Lyons Robin Hood is also available at Sun Hols from £9.50, where a break for four people can cost as little as £38.
Lower Hyde has entertainment for families ranging from pool time to discos to magic actsCredit: Lower Hyde Holiday ParkLower Hyde in the Isle of Wight came out on top for Tracy’s pick of the best UK holiday parksCredit: TripAdvisor
1. Lower Hyde, Isle of Wight
“The best holiday park I’ve ever been to is Lower Hyde on the Isle of Wight – that is my firm favourite.
“I’ve returned several times because my family and I really liked it. I like everything about the park.
“There’s loads to do on site itself, it’s actually one of the only sites where we didn’t mind spending the entire day there.
“There’s plenty of nature trails around the park, and there’s also an adventure park on site.
“Lower Hyde also have a restaurant with really good pub-style food called The Barnhouse,plus they also have little food huts such as the Thunderbird Chicken shack and an ice cream parlour.
“They’ve just hada new outdoor bar open up, too.”
Entertainment and activities
“The entertainment teams are top-quality at Lower Hyde and plenty is free compared to other parks.
“I like the archery in the daytime, plus there’s a great pool to make use of, too.
“I watched some brilliant entertainment there last year.
“In the evenings, the entertainment starts off with discos and character meet and greets for the younger kids, with their own show.
“Then there’s some great bingo, followed by an adult game show.
“Later in the evening there’s more acts from visiting acts such as comedians or magicians, or a performance from the entertainment team.
“There’s then a disco until midnight, so you can stay there all night, if you fancy it.”
Accommodation
“I’ve stayed in both chalets and caravans, and the caravans are top-notch, very cosy and warm.
“The accommodation is in a really nice quiet area. There is a little bit of a hill walking down, so do let the site know if that’s an issue if you plan to visit”.
Accommodation in Lower Hyde is set in pretty woodland close to the beachCredit: Refer to sourceYou could visit the old village of Shanklin and stop by the Old Thatch Teashop for afternoon teaCredit: Getty
Local area
“The must-visit spot nearby is Shanklin. There’s lots of little artisan shops, and it’s not a far walk, about a 10-minute walk into the centre.
“If you walk further, it takes you into Shanklin Old Village. There’s a lovely little restaurant there called The Crab, with beautiful seafood.
“There is also the famous old thatched cottage from all the postcards. Not only is it lovely to look at, but it does afternoon tea inside (from £7.95).
“There’s also Shanklin Chine, a wooded coastal ravine that is the oldest attraction on the island.
“If you wanted to visit, then you can loop right down to the beach afterwards and make your way back up – that’s the perfect day out.
“Some of my favourite things to do in the area are keep an eye out for red squirrels on nature walks, and go stargazing at night – the Isle of Wight has clear skies where you can see the stars”.
Bag a cheap stay
You can book a three-night stay at Parkdean Lower Hyde in a Bronze three-bedroom caravan from £99, based on two adults sharing.
Parkdean Lower Hyde is also available at Sun Hols from £9.50, where a break for four people can cost as little as £38.
How Tracy saves extra on her holidays
As ouur Hols From £9.50 Agony Aunt, Tracy Kennedy has several tips and tricks up her sleeve when it comes to saving money on your staycations.
Here is exactly what Tracy does to prepare ahead of time and save on her holidays, as well as her top tips for saving whilst you’re away.
She told us: “One of the most cost effective things you can do is cook your own meals.
“I’d make a note of some easy, cost-effective meals that are quick to make so you can get it done and get out and enjoy your holiday.
“I like to pack an essentials box of non-perishable food bits with me, like packets of rice, pasta, and tinned food – just make sure you don’t forget to bring a tin opener, too.
“I also bring a small amount of washing up liquid and cleaning products in little travel bottles so we don’t have to buy full-sized ones. This really helps with the shopping, especially if you’re on a budget.
“Then when you do go shopping, all you have to do is buy the fresh stuff like bread, milk and butter.
“I like to slowly buy bits to add to my box in the months before my holiday, as it spreads the cost out and saves you spending too much in the expensive on-site supermarkets when you arrive.
Tracy and her daughter Chloe enjoy packing up a picnic and visiting local historic attractionsCredit: Tracy Kennedy
“Once you’re prepared with food and cleaning supplies, it’s time to start thinking ahead on how to save on attractions.
“Before I go anywhere, I make sure to Google everything there is to do nearby. Especially for days out. See if there are any two for one ticket offers at local attractions, or even places that are free to visit.
“Especially during holidays like Easter, as nearby attractions will often have free events for kids like Easter egg hunts.
“When I visited Prestatyn in North Wales, I did my research ahead of time and found free pottery classes for kids, so we spent an afternoon doing that.
“Also check the National Trust website as well as English Heritage, because sometimes they offer free days out, too. Also check Sun Superdays and Sun Club offers, too!
“If you’re staying at a seaside resort, you can easily spend an entire day out on the coast for free. Check which dates you are there have good weather, and plan to pack a picnic, walk along the promenade, go for a swim.
“Sometimes there will be free children’s Punch and Judy shows, or local festivals – always Google the area and search on local Facebook groups in case there are events whilst you’re there.
“If you’re going as a couple or friends, it can be nice to explore local towns with cheap public transport.
My friend and I visited Lyons Robin Hood last year, and planned to go to Llandudno.
“We bought a £6.50 day saver ticket, jumped on a bus with Llandudno as the final stop and sat on the top deck at the front, and the views we had were absolutely amazing.”
Visit Newquay in Cornwall for a free day out of beautiful beaches and scenic filming locationsCredit: Alamy
“You can get family saver tickets too if there are more of you, then you can go out for the day, get a great view of the local towns and all you have to buy is the bus ticket. It’s a nice, cheap day out for all of the family.
“Similarly, I planned a cheap day out at the coast a few years ago in Newquay, Cornwall.
“We visited all the local beaches, walked to Lands End, and I planned a walk past the hotel where the Roald Dahl film The Witches was made.
“We also drove out to Port Isaac, and walked around where Doc Martin was filmed. All you have to do in these places is pay for is parking and bring your own food.
Then you can just walk around and see all of these really cool filming locations, and that costs you nothing!
“Definitely research the area before you go to see if any movies or TV shows were filmed there”.
Read more of our Hols From £9.50 Agony Aunt’s holiday park tips
Tracy Kennedy is our Hols from £9.50 Agony Aunt, and has plenty more tips and advice when it comes to UK holiday parks…
You’ll qualify for membership when you sign up and simply look up your credit score while logged in.
It takes just a few minutes to enter some details such as your address and date of birth to sign up for the credit score check.
Then you automatically become a member of the SuperSaveClub and you can tap through and access the Free Days Out pass.
Through the pass you can look for days out by postcode or location to see what’s on offer close to you.
You can then ‘claim’ an offer such as a free ticket.
Some of the more premium venues are ‘hot picks’ and you can only claim a free ticket once a month.
This includes Whipsnade and London ZSL zoos, as well as GoApe – but it’s worth noting not all GoApe venues are included.
For all other venues you won’t be able to claim more than once in seven days.
Once claimed, vouchers will need to be used withing 14 days.
To cut the cost of days out and top venues, you can also check websites for discounts.
For example, you’ll get 10% off bookings through GoApe when you sign up to its email distribution list.
A Kids Pass can also cut the cost of days out – it costs just £1 to sign up for the first 30 days which can easily be recouped if you are using it to get discounted entry tickets.
Just remember to cancel the subscription if you don’t think you’ll continue using it.
WHEN you book a £9.50 Holiday, you get the added bonus of all the fun family events and activities available on-site.
But sometimes you fancy venturing out as a family to explore the area, and luckily, these resorts have plenty to see and do out and about.
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We’ve picked out £9.50 holiday destinations with plenty of family-friendly activitiesCredit: Getty
Plus you don’t have to blow the budget by leaving the park – there’s loads of free and cheap things to do as a family.
Hols from £9.50 are set to be restocked this Tuesday, with thousands of new holidays AND new holiday parks – and you can get priority access with Sun Club.
If you fancy signing up to Sun Club to access the £9.50 Hols deals early, head tothesun.co.uk/club and join for £1.99 a monthor £12 for a year.
Once you’re a member, go to the Sun Club Offers huband find the Hols From £9.50 page.
Follow the link from the offers page, and you can book your break from midnight on Tuesday, March 31.
Whether you’re a family full of mini outdoor explorers, rail enthusiasts or older teens who love a thrill ride, we’ve rounded up some of the most affordable family days out at top £9.50 UK holiday destinations.
Here’s our pick of UK holiday spots with plenty of affordable attractions and day trips to enjoy, close to £9.50 holiday parks.
Kent
Kent makes for a fantastic family holiday destination, not just for its beautiful beaches and unspoilt outdoors, but for the range of cheap attractions and museums it offers, too.
If you holiday at Harts on the Isle of Sheppey, you’ll have some of Kent‘s most unspoilt nature on your doorstep.
What better place to re-wild with the kids than by taking a walk over saltwater marshes that are home to local wildlife.
The Swale National Nature Reserve fills the southeast of the Isle of Sheppey, with flat landscapes that make cycling its routes a breeze for the whole family.
Stop to take in the views of coastal marshland home to creatures such as rare butterflies, and birds of prey like Marsh Harriers.
Enjoy a history-filled family day out at Whitstable Castle in KentCredit: Getty
The reserve is completely free to enter.
Over in Dymchurch, families can stay at Romney Sands, Marlie or New Beach – three seafront resorts that are built for families.
Dymchurch beach make for the ideal afternoon walk full of fresh sea air. Kids can enjoy rockpooling, building sandcastles and perhaps finding a buried fossil.
Over in Whistable, Alberta is a £9.50 holiday park with plenty to do nearby.
For an affordable indoor option, the Whitstable Community Museum is a family-friendly attraction bursting with hands-on activities for kids.
Dedicated volunteers show kids the ‘wonders of Whitstable’, like the invention of the diving helmet.
Adult tickets are only £3 each and children are free with an accompanying paying adult.
Or if it’s a sunny day, what nicer activity than a family picnic?
At the top of a winding hill overlooking the sea, Whitstable Castle provides the perfect backdrop to lay out the picnic blanket.
Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the perfectly-manicured gardens, and let the kids sail the high seas in the hidden gem pirate-themed play area, Dollar Dan’s Tankerton Cove. Sometimes the castle even puts on events.
Best of all, entry to the grounds is completely free!
And if you fancy checking out New Romney, train enthusiasts are in for a real treat at New Romney Station.
Watch steam locomotives chug on past at New Romney stationCredit: Alamy
Not only can they watch the collection of traditional steam locomotives come and go, the station itself is home to a massive interactive model railway exhibition.
Construction of the model railway started in 1973, and has been running for 270 days each year since.
Kids will love watching these tiny trains travel a remarkable 3.5 miles a day. Entry for children is only £2 and £4 for adults.
Take your pick from five £9.50 holiday resorts in Kent.
Lincolnshire
Lincolnshire boasts a wide range of attractions and activities that the whole family will enjoy.
Budding naturalists in the family will love exploring some of Lincolnshire’s wildlife attractions.
Sun reader Linda McDonnell, 71, from Lincoln, recommends the Mablethorpe Seal Sanctuary and Wildlife Centre, saying: “It’s very interesting – and there is more than seals to see.
“You also have other animals like parrots (Australian cockatiels), lemurs and reptiles.”
If you fancy getting outdoors in nature, Hubbard’s Hills is a fantastic free option for families holidaying in Lincolnshire.
Sarah Al-Aidi, General Manager at Southview Holiday Park said: “Woodhall Spa is a former spa town with a really beautiful place called Hubbard’s Hills.
“It’s a real beauty spot with great picnic areas, dog walking trails and nature walks“.
Here, families can while away the day by splashing in rivers, taking nature walks or visiting the cafe, which has a play area for kids.
Animal lovers can met rescue seals at Mablethorpe Seal SanctuaryCredit: Mablethorpe Seal Sanctuary
There are also plenty of hills for kids to burn off their energy by climbing and playing.
Hubbard’s Hills is totally free to visit, so if you take a picnic you can enjoy a free family day out. However if you’re driving, parking costs £1.
Of course no trip to the Lincolnshire seaside would be complete without a visit to Skegness.
Simply enjoy a free day out on the beach and strolling the bustling promenade, or if you have pocket money to spend, load up an iCard with £5 to use the tokens on rides at Fantasy Island.
The park has thrilling rides for the whole family, from white-knuckle roller coasters to Dodgems, water flumes and carousels.
There’s also ten-pin bowling and crazy golf to help keep your whole brood entertained all day.
For some nature away from the noise, a fantastic free-to-visit option is the unspoilt Gibraltar Point Nature Reserve.
Here there’s walking trails, dunes, and bird watching, all located just a short drive south of the town.
Take your pick of from 9 Hols from £9.50 resorts in Lincolnshire.
What’s a holiday in Lincolnshire without a visit to Skegness Pier?Credit: Alamy
Sussex
If you’re eyeing up a £9.50 family holiday to Sussex, you’ll be happy to hear that there’s plenty to keep the whole crew entertained.
Of course, you can easily spend your time on the beautiful beaches, which don’t cost a penny to visit.
Camber Sands in East Sussex is a perfect pick for families, the Blue Flag rated beach being home to calm waters and soft sands practically made for buckets and spades.
Plus with Parkdean Resorts Camber Sands on the seafront, you’ll only be steps away from your lodge or caravan down to the shore.
But if you’ve already had your fill of beach trips, then there’s a whole raft of family-friendly activities nearby.
Georgie Radford-Brown, Assistant Guest Experience Manager at Camber Sands Holiday Park recommends Rye Water Sports.
She said: “It’s an action water park that’s really close to us. They have a variety of water sports, like sailing, kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding.”
The location will also put parents’ minds at eas, as lessons take place on a safe inland lake between Rye and Camber Sands.
Camber Sands beach is popular with families thanks to its shallow waters and nearby amenitiesCredit: Alamy
The centre runs everything from board hire (from £20) to holiday clubs for children aged eight to 15 (one day from £85 including sailing, windsurfing and paddle boarding).
Meanwhile, in West Sussex, Hols from £9.50 resort Chichester Lakeside has practically more water than land, with 10 fishing lakes spread across 150 acres.
But if that’s not enough, it’s only an 8-minute drive from the resort to Chichester Watersports.
Here there’s an aqua park complete with inflatable slides. Suitable from age seven, a 50-minute session costs £20.
For another activity that will burn energy without burning a hole in your pocket, head to one of the brilliant cycle paths in Sussex.
Cycle the The South Coast East route along the seafront of SussexCredit: AFP
If you have your own bike, they are also completely free to explore, and the traffic-free terrain also works well for families with prams.
The South Coast East route takes you along the seafront – you could start at Worthing and extend it to Shoreham, Lancing or Brighton depending on how far you want to go.
Alternatively, start at Shoreham-by-Sea and head inland past woods, streams and rivers on the Downs Link.
If you can’t bring your own bikes,hire a Donkey Bike via the app(from £1.80 for 30 minutes), or try Riverside South Downs who rent bikes from £20 for two hours.
Take your pick from six £9.50 holiday resorts in Sussex.
All the ways to book a holiday from £9.50
There are five routes to book our Hols From £9.50
Book online: Simply collectcodewords printed in The Sun paper up until Wednesday, April 1. Then enter them at thesun.co.uk/holidays to unlock booking from April 1.
Book with Sun Club: Join Sun Club at thesun.co.uk/club for £1.99 per month or £12 for the year. Go to the Sun Club Offers hub and click through to the Hols from £9.50 page. You do not need to collect any codewords or Sun Savers codes. Booking opens for Sun Club members onTuesday, March 31.
Book with Sun Savers: Download the Sun Savers app or register at sunsavers.co.uk. Then go to the ‘Offers’ section of Sun Savers and click ‘Start Collecting’ on the ‘Hols From £9.50’ page. Collect TWO Sun Savers codes from those printed at the bottom of the Sun Savers page in the newspaper up until April 1. Then enter or scan the codes on Sun Savers to unlock booking.
Book by post: Collect TWO of the codewords printed in The Sun each day up until Wednesday, April 1. Cut the codeword out and send it back with the booking form – found in paper onApril 1 or online at thesun.co.uk/holidays.
Book with The Sun Digital Newspaper: Sign up to The Sun Digital Newspaper at thesun.co.uk/newspaper. Then download the Sun Savers app or sign up at sunsavers.co.uk, log in to Sun Savers with your Sun account details (the same email and password you use for your Digital Newspaper) and enjoy automatic access to Hols, without the need to collect Sun Savers codes daily. Booking opens onApril 1.
HOLS from £9.50 are set to be restocked this Tuesday, with thousands of new holidays AND new holiday parks – and you can get priority access with Sun Club.
There are two ways to unlock the bargain breaks at Hols from £9.50.
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Golden Coast Holiday Park in Devon is one of the top-booked parks with Hols from £9.50Credit: Golden Coast holiday park
The first is by collecting codes from The Sun newspapers to enter online, with the final code printed in the paper on Wednesday, April 1.
The other way is to sign up to Sun Club for just £1.99 a month, where members gain automatic access onto the website one day earlier than everyone else on Tuesday, March 31.
This means members can have a better chance at bagging the holiday parks that sell out the fastest.
Plus there’s been thousands of new dates added ready for spring and summer this year.
So why not make the most of the sunshine and bag that last-minute family holiday for cheap?
Some of the most popular UK holiday parks listed on the Hols from £9.50 website include Seal Bay in West Sussex, Hendra in Cornwall and Golden Coast in Devon.
Plus there’s also parks in Scotland and Wales like Silversands in Lossiemouth and Lido Beach in Prestatyn.
Once you’re a member, go to the Sun Club Offers huband find the Hols From £9.50 page.
Follow the link from the offers page, and you can book your break from midnight on Tuesday, March 31.
Alternatively, you can collect the codes from physical Sun newspapers, and enter them online at club950.co.uk from Wednesday, April 1.
And if you choose to sign up to Sun Club, there’s plenty of other benefits that come with your membership.
Sun Club members get exclusive perks such as discounted tickets to top UK attractions and the chance to win free tickets to sports events.
In fact, one Sun Club member saved £974 on family holidays and days out in just one year by signing up to Sun Club.
Parkdean Camber Sands in East Sussex is a popular choice as it sits on the East Sussex beachCredit: Parkdean Camber Sands
All the ways to book a holiday from £9.50
There are five routes to book our Hols From £9.50
Book online: Simply collectcodewords printed in The Sun paper up until Wednesday, April 1. Then enter them at thesun.co.uk/holidays to unlock booking from April 1.
Book with Sun Club: Join Sun Club at thesun.co.uk/club for £1.99 per month or £12 for the year. Go to the Sun Club Offers hub and click through to the Hols from £9.50 page. You do not need to collect any codewords or Sun Savers codes. Booking opens for Sun Club members onTuesday, March 31.
Book with Sun Savers: Download the Sun Savers app or register at sunsavers.co.uk. Then go to the ‘Offers’ section of Sun Savers and click ‘Start Collecting’ on the ‘Hols From £9.50’ page. Collect TWO Sun Savers codes from those printed at the bottom of the Sun Savers page in the newspaper up until April 1. Then enter or scan the codes on Sun Savers to unlock booking.
Book by post: Collect TWO of the codewords printed in The Sun each day up until Wednesday, April 1. Cut the codeword out and send it back with the booking form – found in paper onApril 1 or online at thesun.co.uk/holidays.
Book with The Sun Digital Newspaper: Sign up to The Sun Digital Newspaper at thesun.co.uk/newspaper. Then download the Sun Savers app or sign up at sunsavers.co.uk, log in to Sun Savers with your Sun account details (the same email and password you use for your Digital Newspaper) and enjoy automatic access to Hols, without the need to collect Sun Savers codes daily. Booking opens onApril 1.
You could book a stay at Sand le Mere holiday park at club950.co.ukCredit: park holidays uk
EASYJET has launched a huge sale with millions of seats on offer for winter 2027 including the February half-term.
The budget airline’s Big Seat Release has over seven million seats on flights to and from the UK on sale for between February 1 and March 21, 2027.
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EasyJet has launched its Big Seat Release for winter 2027Credit: GettyDestinations include Agadir in Morocco, which was recently named the most affordable break for this summerCredit: Love holidays
Travellers can choose from over 140 destinations across Europe and North Africa from 22 UK airports.
Flight offers include one-way flights to Paris from London Gatwick, costing £31.99 on February 2, 2027.
You could also travel to Dusseldorf in Germany, Geneva in Switzerland, and Grenoble and Nantes in France for the same price.
If you fancy travelling further afield, you could fly to Agadir in Morocco from London Gatwick on February 23, 2027, for £37.99 one-way.
Agadir was recently named the most affordable break for summer 2026 by loveholidays, with a week holiday to the seaside city costing as little as £24 per person per night between June and August.
The Moroccan city is surrounded by mountains and also boasts a six-mile long golden beach.
Deputy Travel Editor Kara Godfrey recently visited the city and said: “The Moroccan city is home to the country’s largest market, Souk El Had, as well as a bustling harbour and modern marina.
“Rebuilt following a devastating earthquake in 1960, the sprawling city nestles against the Atlantic Ocean and its palm-lined wide roads feel more Miami than Morocco.”
Other bucket-list destinations include Reykjavik in Iceland, with flights costing from £44.17 per way and Thessaloniki in Greece, costing from £48.99 per way.
To find easyJet‘s lowest fares, head to the low fare finder section of the easyJet website where the best value fares are shown.
EasyJet holidays also has thousands of package holidays available, including to destinations such as the Canary Islands, Morocco and Tunisia.
All of the holiday packages include flights and a hotel, with a 23kg luggage allowance and transfers for beach getaways.
Kevin Doyle, UK Country Manager for easyJet, said: “Putting millions more seats and package holidays on sale today for nextwinter means our customers across the UK can book early and enjoy great value to Europe’s most popular leisure destinations, including firm favourites such as Amsterdam, Paris, Alicante, Tenerife, and Malaga.
“With hundreds of routes available from 22 UK airports, our short-haul network offers unrivalled choice for those planning their holidays for next year, to book with ease, and we can’t wait to welcome them on board.”
The Government says the increases are needed to make the system self-funded rather than relying on taxpayers.
Officials insist they’re not making a profit, with fees instead covering processing applications, supporting Brits overseas and managing UK border checks.
Standard applications take on average three weeks to process, which is the exact date when the new price comes into force.
So if you want a passport before the cost shoot up, you can apply for one-day premium service.
And be quick as the premium service will go up from from £222 to £239.50 in April as well.
IF you’re dreaming of white sands and turquoise tides but don’t want to overspend, it’s time to break out of your comfort zone.
While the likes of stunning Mykonos and Ibiza may have you hiding from your bank account, there are a handful of affordable luxury gems that are waiting just a short flight away. Here, the Sun’s travel team reveals the bargain buys – including resorts that offer a five-star feel without the excessive price tag.
One resort in Albania is yet to become popular among Brits and reaches 34°C in the summerCredit: Getty
We’ve found lesser-known options that are often quieter than their overcrowded neighbours.
From volcanic Greek islands with moon-like landscapes, to unspoiled Adriatic villages where a beer costs less than £2, these are the best-kept secrets of the Mediterranean and beyond.
Whether you want to trek across Tunisian beaches on a camel or sip cocktails at an Albanian beach club, these are the top under-the-radar resorts for 2026 – where you can bag an escape for as little as £75pp.
Milos, Greece
If you love the look of the Greek Islands but want to dodge the eye-watering prices of Mykonos or Santorini, Milos is the island for you.
This volcanic gem sits in the Aegean Sea and offers some of the most surreal landscapes in Europe, all whilst maintaining that laid-back Greek holiday atmosphere.
Flights to Milos (via a quick connection in Athens) take around 4 hours in total.
Return flights start at £119. You can book the whole flight – with connections included – on Skyscanner to save you the hassle of planning.
Or you can also hop on a ferry over from mainland Greece, with flights from London to Athens starting at just £26.37 each way with budget airline Ryanair.
Visit the island during the peak summer months of July and August, and you’ll find temperatures sitting at a glorious 30C.
Although Milos is a lesser-visited island, it’s famed for its coastline – specifically Sarakiniko Beach.
Sarakiniko Beach in Milos is so strikingly white you’d be forgiven for thinking you’re looking at the ArcticCredit: Alamy
Here, bone-white volcanic rock looks more like the surface of the moon than a typical beach, making it one of the island’s most Instagrammable spots.
For something more secluded, head to the fishing village of Firopotamos, where tiny syrmata (brightly-coloured boat garages) sit on the water’s edge.
You can spend your days swimming in sapphire-blue rock pools or snorkelling the sea caves of Kleftiko, an old pirate hideout only accessible by boat.
Plus, going out to eat in Milos is a dream for those on a budget compared to those visiting its more famous neighbours.
You can pick up massive, authentic gyros from a local taverna for as little as €5 (£4.30), or sit back with a cold local beer for around €3.50 (£3.02).
While Milos feels exclusive and high-end, it remains surprisingly affordable – so you can experience that Mamma Mia lifestyle without the celebrity price tag.
Lastminute.com offers a 4-night stay in the beautiful, bright white Tsakanos Home, including breakfast (and return flights from London Stansted) from £303pp.
The Greek island of Milos is dotted with colourful syrmata boathouses overlooking calm watersCredit: Alamy
Ischia, Italy
Want Positano without the price tag? Consider visiting Ischia, known as the Green Island of Italy.
Spend days strolling past pastel-coloured traditional houses and through blooming botanical gardens, or hop on boat trips to explore hidden coves.
Temperatures average 26C in July and August, and sit comfortably in the early 20’s during the shoulder seasons.
The easiest way to get to Ischia is to fly to Naples (starting at £14.99 each way with Ryanair) and then hop on the ultra-fast hydrofoil ferry.
Once you arrive, there’s endless amounts of unique history to explore and coastline to wander.
This volcanic island even has its own hot springs that bubble up at the island’s longest and most popular beach, Maronti Beach.
Ischia in Italy is made up of narrow streets with pastel-coloured buildingsCredit: AlamyIschia is one of the most unique places to visit in Italy, with hot springs and an underwater cityCredit: Alamy
And if that’s not unique enough, there’s plenty more interesting beaches to choose from.
Cartaromana Beach has its own real-life Atlantis in the form of a sunken city called Aenaria made up of Roman ruins.
And for a historical afternoon out, head to the medieval Aragonese Castle to see the old prisons and stone bridges that overlook a vast blue bay.
It’s famously hard to find a bad meal in Italy, and the island of Ischia is no exception.
A portion of arancini can cost you as little as €3 (£2.59), and you can find local beers from €4 (£3.45).
Plus there are plenty of affordable package holiday options available to this underrated island.
First Choice offers a 7-night stay with breakfast at the Costa Citara Hotel, including return flights from Birmingham, from £483pp.
Ksamil, Albania
Albania is the recent breakout star of budget holiday destinations, but many Brits still haven’t caught on to this unspoiled coastal village.
Ksamil is a resort in southern Albania that offers a real slice of Mediterranean paradise set on the idyllic Ionian Sea.
Just three hours’ flight from the UK, Ksamil sees 300 days of sunshine per year, and temperatures peak at a scorching 34C in the summer months.
With its near-luminous blue waters and rocky coves covered in lush greenery, Ksamil could easily be mistaken for a luxurious Greek island resort.
One of the resort’s best beaches is Plazhi Ksamil, a popular choice for its picturesque wooden jetty where boats wait to taxi you off to the remote Ksamil islands.
But if you truly want somewhere remote and undisturbed, take the coastal walk down to Pulebardha Beach.
Pulebardha Beach is a secluded spot in the Albanian resort of KsamilCredit: AlamyBeaches in Ksamil can often be calmer than the popular resorts of Himara and capital TiranaCredit: Alamy
If you don’t mind pebbles instead of sand, this is one of the most beautiful beaches in the area.
In Ksamil, sitting down to a cocktail at a beachside bar can feel like experiencing a high-end Mykonos resort for a fraction of the price.
Cocktails here can cost you as little as 350 LEK (around £3.16), and beers as little as 180 LEK (£1.62).
Poda Beach Bar has a posh beach club feel, with day beds, a wooden sea swing, as well as live music and DJs taking over a stretch of white sand.
The village’s top eateries include grill houses such as Restaurant Grill & Pizza Palma, as well as top seafood spot The Mussel House.
The latter offers some of the freshest local shellfish in the area, with thousands of raving 5-star reviews online.
One of the restaurant’s most popular dishes, sautéed mussels, will cost you just 550 LEK (£4.96).
And as for accommodation, you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to affordable options.
You can book a three-night self-catering stay in a sea view villa, including return flights from London Luton, for as little as £75pp on Lastminute.com.
Ulcinj, Montenegro
Think the Med is getting too expensive? Montenegro is here to prove you wrong.
Montenegro’s dramatic coastline blends impressive mountains with warm turquoise waters, plus your pick of near-endless sandy coves to explore.
Montenegro is a lesser-visited Meditterranean country for BritsCredit: Alamy
And whilst the crowds head to the busy Bay of Kotor, savvy travellers are heading south to Ulcinj.
Ulcinj is an ultra-affordable Mediterranean destination, and it doesn’t compromise on the beautiful nature, either.
Flights to Podgorica, the nearest airport, average just 2 hours and 50 minutes from London – and can cost as little as £18 each way with Wizz Air.
Ulcinj is also one of the country’s oldest residential areas, so there are plenty of historical sites to visit, such as the ancient Ulcinj Castle and the charming narrow streets of the Old Town.
The best time to visit Ulcinj is between May and September, with July being the hottest month with temperatures reaching 31C.
And if you’re simply looking to laze on a lounger and soak up the sunshine, head to Long Beach.
As the name suggests, this shoreline stretches for miles – eight miles, to be exact.
The ancient Ulcinj Castle overlooks the vast Adriatic SeaCredit: Getty
This beach has soft sands and shallow, sapphire waters, perfect for paddling with children if taking a family holiday.
Alternatively, Small Beach is tucked in a crescent-shaped cove, overlooked by the impressive Ulcinj Castle.
And other than sightseeing and sunbathing, Ulcinj has plenty of other unique things to do.
Head to the Ulcinj Salina, a giant nature park, to spot wild flamingos for free, or visit Lake Skadar (the largest in the Balkans) to rent a kayak.
Local staple foods include priganice, which are doughnut-like fritters eaten at breakfast, and baklava, a sweet pastry often enjoyed with coffee.
These delights cost as little as €1-2 from markets and cafes. Plus, when they’re paired with a cappuccino, which averages a cost of just €1.97 in Montenegro, how can you say no?
And when it comes to booking your trip, holiday packages to Ulcinj are very affordable.
Loveholidays offer a 7-night stay with breakfast at the swanky Hotel Continental Ulcinj (which includes return flights from London Stansted) from just £299 per person.
Djerba Island, Tunisia
Sun-drenched Djerba is a palm tree-lined island off the coast of Tunisia, where Mediterranean and North African influences meet to make postcard-perfect seaside villages.
Flights from London to Djerba average three and a half hours, ideal for those who want that far-flung holiday feel without the long flight.
Djerba is the largest island in North Africa, and is part of TunisiaCredit: GettyHoumt Souk in Djerba is worth visiting for its bustling markets, street art and mosaicsCredit: Getty
Visit the island in its warmest months, July and August, and you can enjoy temperatures that reach up to 33C.
Here you can stroll through whitewashed fishing villages, colourful markets and neighbourhoods decorated with mosaics and street art.
Or simply laze under straw umbrellas on the shores of Sidi Mahrez beach, taking the occasional dip in its turquoise waters.
And if you want to enjoy Djerba’s beautiful beaches by trekking across their white sands via camel, you can do that here.
For a more lively day out, head to Houmt Souk (known as the market neighbourhood) for colourful souks backed by an impressive fortress.
Or head to the north-eastern coast of the island to try out water sports like parasailing and kite-surfing.
Local food is both affordable and delicious, and you can grab local delicacies like couscous from markets for around 10.20 DT (£2.60) per meal.
Plus, the average beer in Tunisia will cost you only 5 DT (£1.28) and a cappuccino will set you back just 2.63 DT (67p).
Tunisia is renowned for its affordable all-inclusive hotels, and the resorts on Djerba Island are no exception.
TUI offer week-long, all-inclusive stays at the four-star Palm Beach Djerba (including return flights from London Luton) from just £395pp.
Camel rides are available along the beaches of Djerba, TunisiaCredit: AFPBeaches within Portugal’s Costa Vicentina Natural Park often have unique landscapesCredit: Getty
Aljezur, Portugal
For a taste of the “wild side” of the Algarve that remains distant from the major tourist spots, look no further than Aljezur.
Tucked away in the Costa Vicentina Natural Park on Portugal’s rugged west coast, this market town is worlds away from the high-rise resorts of the south.
Flights to Faro from the UK take around 2 hours and 50 minutes, and can cost as little as £14.99 each way with Ryanair.
From there, it’s a scenic 75-minute drive into a landscape of jagged cliffs and desert-like sands.
Summer temperatures here peak at 28C in July, whilst the south coast can feel sweltering, Aljezur enjoys a cooling Atlantic breeze.
Aljezur is the capital of Portugal’s surf scene, centred around the stunning Arrifana Beach, a crescent of soft sands sheltered by dramatic black cliffs.
Another beautiful beach option is Monte Clérigo, which has a coastal village vibe with colourful houses perched right above the shore.
Amoreira Beach, on the other hand, features a unique river mouth that’s calm and ideal for paddling with kids.
Despite its trendy surfing reputation, Aljezur is surprisingly wallet-friendly.
The quiet market town of Aljezur in the Algarve feels worlds away from busy AlbufeiraCredit: Alamy
You can grab a hearty Prato do Dia (plate of the day) featuring fresh grilled seafood for around €10 (£8.62) at a traditional tasca.
A local beer will cost you about €2.50 (£2.16), and a coffee from a local cafe can be found for just €1.20 (£1.03).
Between the castle ruins, dramatic cliffs and endless amount of hidden beaches, Aljezur offers a taste of Portugal‘s beautifully rugged coastline for a fraction of what you’d pay elsewhere in the Algarve.
Expedia offer a 7-night stay including breakfast at the aptly-named Utopia from just £403pp.
EGYPT has seen a fall in tourism due to the ongoing Iran conflict – despite it not being affected.
In response, tour operators are dropping prices of all-inclusive holidays – with some savings racking up to over £2,000.
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The price of holidays to Egypt has dropped as Brits avoid goingCredit: AlamyTUI’s Coral Sea Water World has its own waterpark and savings of over £2,000Credit: TUI
Due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, Brits have been avoiding travelling to the surrounding countries, including Egypt.
Last week, On The Beach confirmed that they had experienced a drop in demand for popular holiday destinations including Egypt as well as Greece, Turkey and Cyprus.
Despite this, its airspace remains open and the travel advice to popular tourist spots along the Red Sea coastline hasn’t differed from the being safe for travel.
What has changed, is that the price of all-inclusive holidays has plunged.
An all-inclusive break at the Xperience St. George Homestay, in the coastal neighbourhood of Hadaba in Sharm El Sheikh, starts from £424 per person.
This includes flights from LiverpoolJohn Lennon Airport on May 11 and the return journey on May 28, 2026.
A TUI holiday has dropped by nearly 70 per cent, with a three-night all-inclusive stay next month at Sindbad Club just £347pp – down from £1017pp.
Or a family of four can have an all-inclusive stay across seven-nights at the Coral Sea Water World in Sharm El Sheikh for just £1,576 – or £525.46 per person (and down 60 per cent).
The trip with TUI from April 22 to April 29, 2026 is all-inclusive and includes return flights from Manchester Airport.
Brits unsure about booking holidays should remember that the package holidays are ATOL-protected – so if they get cancelled, you get all your money back.
What is the current travel advice to Egypt?
Keep up to date with the FCDO travel advice to Egypt on Gov.UK – here’s the latest…
FCDO advises against travel to these parts of Egypt;
Egypt-Libya border
North Sinai
Northern part of South Sinai
Eastern part of Ismailiyah Governorate
Hala’ib Triangle and Bir Tawil Trapezoid
Western Desert
FCDO advises against all but essential travel to the area west of the Nile Valley and Nile Delta regions, except for:
Luxor, Qina, Aswan, Abu Simbel and the Valley of the Kings
the Faiyum Governorate
the coastal areas between the Nile Delta and Marsa Matruh
the Marsa Matruh-Siwa road
the oasis town of Siwa
the Giza Governorate north-east of the Bahariya Oasis
the White Desert and Black Desert
the oasis towns of Bahariya, Farafra, Dakhla (Mut) and Kharga
the following roads and the desert area between them and the Nile valley:
the road between Giza and Farafra and within 50km either side of this road (but FCDO advises against all but essential travel on the road between Bahariya and Siwa)
the road between Farafra, Dakhla (Mut) and Kharga
the road between Kharga and Baris
the road between Baris and Luxor
It also warns of potential regional risks that “could lead to travel disruption and other unanticipated impacts”.
The FCDO advises British nationals to “take sensible precautions, considering their own individual circumstances”.
The Xperience St. George Homestay has deals from £424ppCredit: easyjet Holidays The price of all-inclusive holidays to spots in Egypt have plummetedCredit: Alamy
Our favourite Egypt holiday deals
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New Badawia Resort, Sharm el Sheikh
This hotel in popular resort Sharm el Sheikh has a large outdoor pool, waterpark and its own private beach area to cool off from the Egyptian sun. There’s traditional evening entertainment to bring the kids along to, and plenty to do in the local area like snorkelling and dipping into local bars and restaurants
With five swimming pools, six bars and six restaurants, you won’t get bored of this sprawling resort. The resort sits in the town centre of Makadi Bay, with plenty of dining and shopping options on your doorstep. The best part? Makadi Water World is just minutes from the hotel, famed for its 50 water slides and wave pool – and guests staying here get free entry.
The 4-star Jaz Grand Marsa has its own private beach with a coral reef, as well as five pools, three of which have sea views. The spacious grounds feature gardens and water fountains, plus tennis courts.
This all-inclusive resort is built for families, with a huge entertainment programme and an on-site waterpark with 18 slides. You can expect a buffet that’s anything but repetitive, as the theme and food line-up change daily. If you can bring yourself to leave the all-inclusive waterpark-come-resort, there’s the King Tut Museum, plus the Red Sea is world-famous for snorkelling.
A MAN has revealed how he managed to visit two countries in two days for under £100 – and was back in time for work the next morning.
Aleksander Sikora, 41, wanted to visit both Nice and Monaco on his two days off.
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Aleksander Sikora managed to visit two countries in one trip for under £100Credit: SWNSHe spent his first day exploring Monaco before going to NiceCredit: SWNSHe made sure to visit the free attractions to keep costs downCredit: SWNS
The dad-of-two, who lives in Farnham, Surrey, bought easyJet return flights from Gatwick to Nice for just £48 which departed on Friday, March 13, and returned the next day.
His pre-trip costs included £13 parking, and be paid £19 for a hostel in Nice before departing as well.
After arriving in Nice, he went straight to Monaco by train (£6) to explore the sights of the famous ‘microstate’ – known for its beautiful buildings and wealth.
He visited the area around Monte Carlo’s casino and saw the Promenade des Champions – golden footprints of award-winning footballers.
Aleksander said: “I went to The Cathedral of Our Lady Immaculate, which was free to enter, and I went to the Prince‘s Palace of Monaco on the hill.”
Aleksander fuelled up throughout the day on a packed lunch be brought with him, although did splash out on some pizza from a local market stall.
He got a train back to Nice – squeezing in a visit to the Notre-Dame de Nice in the dark – where he slept and then had breakfast at the hostel the following morning.
The £19-a-night cost amazingly even included a breakfast of croissants, baguettes and coffee for the bargain price.
Aleksander said: “I am from Poland and somehow one of the other men in the hostel was too.
“Another of the men from the hostel suggested to go to the Russian Orthodox Cathedral so the next day that was what I did.”
Entry was free there too, so he explored after stocking up with more snacks and drinks from a local supermarket.
He walked up to the Colline du Chateau, which offers panoramic views of Nice, and took in the sights.
Aleksander then visited a museum to get some more history of Nice, before a gentle walk back to the airport.
He said: “That was another six miles or so, but I just looked around the streets, chilled out and relaxed.
“I put my headphones in, and just thought about nothing, enjoying my break from work.”
After spending his second day exploring Nice, he got back to the airport to catch his 9pm flight back to Gatwick – and was in bed by 11:30pm, ready for work the next day.
He said it was the best way to see as place – as long as you don’t mind a lot of walkingCredit: SWNSHis hostel even included breakfastCredit: SWNS
Aleksander, a retail employee trainer, said: “I saw a lot of historical things, if you like that kind of history it’s great.
“I studied history for three years, it’s a passion of mine and there is lots to discover.
“I walked around 30 miles in two days, but I don’t mind. I just relaxed and enjoyed it.”
And the entire trip cost around £100 thanks to Aleksander’s savvy travelling methods and bringing his own food.
He added: “The main beauty of the trip was the architecture, all the different cultures.
“You can’t compare them but every place is unique, and you can find beauty everywhere.
Full cost of Aleksander’s trip
Return flight ticket – £48
Car park Gatwick – £13
Night in Nice with breakfast – £19
Train from Nice to Monaco – £6
Train from Monaco to Nice – £5
Half a pizza in Monaco – £3.50
Croissant & Coffee in Nice – £3
Supermarket water and snacks – £2
= £99.50
He was back in time for work the next dayCredit: SWNS
WHEN it comes to travelling to Greece there are loads of islands to choose from – but now the cheapest spots have been revealed, and you might be surprised.
Greece is a much-loved holiday destination for Brits, and now the islands where you could save over £1,000 have been revealed.
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The cheaper Greek island destinations have been revealedCredit: GettyThere are a number of alternative islands Brits could head to in Greece that could save them over £1,000 on their holidayCredit: GettyThe cheapest Greek destination is Kefalonia, with a seven-night holiday costing around £596 per personCredit: Alamy
According to new data by TravelSupermarket, Kefalonia – the largest Ionian island – is the cheapest Greek destination.
Looking at average prices for a seven-night holiday between September 16, 2025 and March 15 2026, TravelSupermarket found that Kefalonia cost an average of £596 per person.
Caroline McGuire, Head of Travel (Digital), who has visited the island, said: “Looking out at Myrtos Beach, which is regularly named one of Greece’s top five, it felt like we were being let in on a great secret.
“The bright white shoreline and astonishingly clear aquamarine waters shone back at us, almost completely empty.
“It was so peaceful, in fact, that a digital nomad had set up his van office in the parking lot overlooking the sea.”
In second place is Lefkada, costing around £606 per person.
Instead of heading to Corfu, Lefkada (which is just along the coast) offers fewer crowds.
Also, in comparison to a seven-night break in Corfu, you could save £216 per person, or £864 if travelling as a family of four.
The island of Lefkada is often dubbed the ‘Caribbean of Greece’ thanks to its exotic, Caribbean-like natural landscape.
Across the island, you will find sprawling beaches including Porto Katsiki.
And in the island’s main town, there are lots of alleys to explore, and a long promenade with restaurants and bars littered along it.
In the town, look at the buildings too, as many are in a Venetian architectural style.
Surprisingly, Santorini ranked third most affordable, costing around £637 per person.
The stunning island is one of the most popular destinations in Europe attracting honeymooners and A-listers such as Angelina Jolie and Beyonce.
Lefkada followed in second place and surprisingly, Santorini in thirdCredit: GettySantorini is often thought to be a luxury destination with A-listers visiting, such as BeyonceCredit: Getty
And as a result, many think visiting the island comes with a premium price tag.
But a trip to the white-and-blue island doesn’t need to break the bank.
Hotels can cost from just £35 a night and the island has a good bus network, which costs less than £2 a ticket.
For less busy spots, check out Megalochori, Pygros or Emborio – they all feature cobbled roads, cosy tavernas and authentic Greek food.
Mykonos followed in fourth, costing around £670 per person.
Mykonos is often thought to be one of Greece‘s most glamorous and expensive places to visit.
Another glamourous destination – Mykonos – followed in fourthCredit: Getty
Both destinations are Dodecanese staples, with lots of sunny weather and stunning beaches.
Yet, if you head to Rhodes over Kos you could save a massive £254 per person – or £1,016 for a family of four.
The island is well-known for its 3,000-year-old history with the UNESCO-listed medieval Old Town as well as amazing beaches including Lindos Beach and Faliraki Beach.
Chris Webber, Head of Holidays and Deals at TravelSupermarket, said: “Greek islands are not all created equal when it comes to price — but the expensive ones might not be the islands you’d expect.
“Mykonos costs less to book than Crete. Rhodes is hundreds of pounds cheaper than Kos.
I SPEND a lot of my time looking at holiday prices – comparing deals, breaking down packages, and figuring out where the strange little pricing tricks are hiding.
There’s one trend I keep seeing again and again. In some family resorts, it can actually work out cheaper to stay as an adult and a child than as one adult on their own.
Holiday expert Rob Brooks has scoured the internet for holidays that are cheaper with childrenCredit: Robb Brooks
That’s not because flights suddenly get cheaper, but because the hotel part of the package drops in price.
It sounds odd, but when you look at how hotels price their rooms, it starts to make sense.
Why does this strange holiday pricing trick happen? The main reason is something called a single supplement.
Most hotel rooms are priced for two people sharing, so when just one person stays, hotels often increase the price to make up for the empty bed.
Solo travellers can end up paying a hidden surcharge, but when you add a child, the pricing works differently.
Family resorts – especially in places like Turkey, Spain and Greece – are built around rooms designed for two adults and a child, and children usually cost hotels less to accommodate.
They often sleep on sofa beds, eat smaller portions and have discounted all-inclusive rates.
Because of that, hotels often price children very cheaply – and sometimes the total hotel cost actually drops compared with a solo booking.
Hotels are usually happy with this because families tend to spend more around the resort, from drinks and snacks to activities and excursions.
So, filling a room with an adult and a child can be more valuable than one guest travelling alone, which occasionally leads to the strange situation where bringing a child makes the hotel portion of the holiday cheaper.
When I looked at the data, I found several resorts where this pricing quirk shows up.
I compared the price of a 7-night stay as a solo traveller versus the cost when bringing one child at a variety of holiday resorts.
Here are some of the best examples, and the biggest savings of up to £698.
Labranda Targa Club Aquapark, Marrakech
Average saving: £30
Just outside Marrakech, Labranda Targa Club Aquapark combines Moroccan sunshine with a proper family-friendly resort setup.
Kids get water slides and splash pools, while adults can explore the markets and gardens of the city nearby.
And the pricing still shows a small advantage, with adult and child bookings averaging £30 cheaper for a 7-night stay than solo travellers.
Labranda Targa Club Aquapark is a family-friendly option in sunny Marrakech, MoroccoCredit: On the Beach
BLUESEA Puerto Caleta, Fuerteventura
Average saving: £43
Located in Caleta de Fuste, Puerto Caleta is a relaxed apartment complex perfect for an adult and child beach holiday.
You’ve got sandy beaches, boat trips and plenty of restaurants right on your doorstep.
When I priced it up, holidays average a £43 saving for an adult and child per 7-night stay compared with travelling alone.
Sol Barbados, Majorca
Average saving: £45
Sol Barbados in Magaluf is one of the most family-friendly resorts in Majorca.
There’s a huge waterpark-style pool area, kids’ entertainment and easy access to the beach.
For an adult travelling with a child, it’s a simple sun-and-pool holiday – and the pricing shows an average saving of around £45 for a 7-night stay compared to booking solo.
BLUESEA Puerto Caleta in Fuerteventura is just steps away from a golden sand beachCredit: Alamy
At Staycity Aparthotels near Disneyland Paris, you’re just minutes from the Disney parks, which makes it ideal for an adult taking a child on their first big theme park trip.
And the pricing structure means the average holiday can come out around £60 cheaper for a 7-night stay when you book as an adult and child instead of travelling alone.
The Staycity Aparthotels are just minutes’ walk from Disneyland ParisCredit: Alamy
Oludeniz Beach Resort by Z Hotels, Dalaman
Average saving: £81
Oludeniz Beach Resort sits right by one of Turkey’s most famous beaches – the stunning Blue Lagoon at Ölüdeniz.
It’s an easygoing, all-inclusive resort where an adult and child can spend the day swimming, exploring the beach or watching the paragliders drift down from the mountains.
And package bookings for this hotel show an average saving of £81 for a 7-night stay when adding a child versus travelling solo.
There is an average saving of £81 when you bring a child to Oludeniz Beach ResortCredit: On the Beach
Gran Castillo Tagoro, Lanzarote
Average saving: £212
This five-star resort in Lanzarote is practically designed for family holidays.
Gran Castillo Tagoro has dedicated kids zones, family pools and incredible views over the volcanic coastline near Playa Blanca.
For an adult and child travelling together, it’s the perfect mix of relaxation and activities.
Bookings here show an average saving of around £212 when bringing a child for a 7-night stay compared with a solo holiday.
You can save up to £212 on a stay at the five-star Gran Castillo Tagoro in LanzaroteCredit: On the Beach
It’s close to the beaches of Salou and just minutes from PortAventura theme park, which makes it perfect for a trip packed with rides, waterparks and ice cream stops.
Thanks to family-friendly pricing, the average holiday price drops by about £251 per 7-night stay when a child is added to the booking.
Golden Port Salou is just a short walk away from the Spanish theme park PortAventuraCredit: On the Beach
Rixos Radamis Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt
Average saving: £279
If you’re looking for something more luxury, Rixos Radamis in Sharm El Sheikh is one of the most impressive resorts in Egypt.
Huge pools, beach access on the Red Sea, kids clubs and endless all-inclusive food options make it a dream for families.
And the pricing structure here means an adult travelling with a child can save around £279 for a 7-night break on average compared with booking the same trip alone.
Auramar Beach Resort, Algarve
Average saving: £349
Over in Portugal, Auramar Beach Resort sits right above the cliffs near Albufeira with incredible sea views.
It’s a laid-back all-inclusive hotel where an adult and child can spend the day between the beach, the pools and the buffet before watching the sunset over the Atlantic.
Because it’s built for families, adding a child actually brings the average holiday price down by around £349 for a 7-night break compared with travelling solo.
The Auramar Beach Resort in Albufeira has stunning views over sapphire seasCredit: On the Beach
Eftalia Blue, Antalya
Average saving: £698
One of the biggest differences I found was at Eftalia Blue on Turkey’s Mediterranean coast.
This is a classic big Turkish all-inclusive resort with huge pools, slides, and easy access to the famous Eftalia Island beach complex.
For an adult and child travelling together, it’s ideal – kids get waterparks and entertainment all day while parents can relax by the pool or head down to the beach.
And the pricing quirk here is huge, with holidays averaging almost £700 cheaper for an adult and child for a 7-night stay compared to travelling alone.
Here’s my key takeaways for travellers.
Holidays can become nearly £700 cheaper at Eftalia Blue if you bring a child rather than go soloCredit: Eftalia Hotels
I should make it clear: holidays aren’t always cheaper with kids.
Flights are still one of your biggest spends, and plenty of hotels price things normally.
But when you start digging through package holiday deals, you occasionally find this strange pricing quirk.
Because of single supplements and heavily discounted child rates, this is one of those travel industry secrets you only really notice when you spend your days digging through holiday data.
BRITISH holidaymakers have been caught up in the Iran crisis, with thousands stranded abroad and even more fearing for their upcoming trips.
But if you haven’t booked your holiday yet, should you be doing it now to avoid any price hikes?
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Your holiday to Spain and Greece is likely to cost more this summerCredit: AlamyAirlines are already hiking flight fare prices, and this is likely to continueCredit: Alamy
In response, airlines such as Qantas, Scandinavia’s SAS and Air New Zealand have all raised flight prices already.
Some airlines such as Ryanair, easyJet, British Airways and Virgin Atlantic, are less affected as they have secured some of their fuel at fixed prices for a set amount of time – called hedging.
Ryanair boss Michael O’Leary said the rise in jet fuel “won’t affect our costs and it won’t affect our low fares,” something easyJet also echoed.
But flights elsewhere are likely to go up in the next year or so, as the conflict continues.
Most airlines in America do not protect themselves against jet fuel price increases, meaning Brits are likely to see more expensive transatlantic fares.
According to research from Skift this could cost US airlines as much as $24billion in extra fuel costs – working out to 11 per cent increases on flights.
Not only that, but the closure of the Strait of Hormuz – one of the world’s most important shipping routes – is also having a knock-on affect and could lead to shortages.
James Noel-Beswick, head of commodities at market intelligence firm Sparta Commodities, told the BBC that it was very likely” that prices will increase this summer.
He added: “I think we’re weeks away from maybe flight cancellations or delays due to lack of jet fuel, rather than months.”
So, what can Brit holidaymakers do?
Qantas has already said they are raising pricesCredit: EPA
If you were planning on booking a package holiday, many tour operators allow you to lock in a cheap price, and simply pay a deposit, with the full balance coming later.
Jet2 allows you to book a holiday with a £60pp deposit while TUI has a number of £0 deposit schemes.
Loveholidays has deposits from £19pp, as well as a “Best Price Promise” that refunds the difference if your holiday is cheaper within seven days of booking, plus an extra £5 per person.
Destinations like Spain – already one of the most popular holiday destinations for Brits – are likely to see even more demand this year along with Greece due to being seen as ‘safer’ holiday destinations.
This means you might see a jump in price more than usual as well.
Dubai is still on the “only essential travel” list so holidays to the UAE city are currently suspended, along with Jordan also on the travel ban list.
Even destinations like Egypt and Turkey are being affected, with a number of Sun readers concerned about holidays to both.
The Sun’s Head of Travel on which holiday destinations to go to instead this year
The Sun’s Head of Travel Lisa Minot, explains: “There’s no doubt the current crisis in the Middle East is going to have a seismic impact on our holiday habits.
“Reports of travellers stranded in the UAE and across the globe will certainly prompt those looking to travel long haul to look at alternative ways to fly – with direct flights to places like Thailand, the Maldives and Japan sure to be very popular.
“Closer to home, the situation will sadly likely impact destinations like Turkey, Egypt, Cyprus and possibly even Greece.
“And with soaring fuel costs, tour operators will be looking to price alternative destinations competitively.
“But there are other options – our traditional resorts in places like Spain and Portugal are good, safe bets.
“Comparison giant TravelSupermarket has crunched the numbers for this summer and declared Spain’s Costa Calida one of the best-value destinations for this summer.
“Dubbed the ‘warm coast’, this region stretching along the south eastern region of Murcia is one of Spain’s most underrated coastlines with 150miles of beaches, crystal clear waters and the unique Mar Menor lagoon, Europe’s largest saltwater lake.
“Also worth exploring arethe likes of Montenegro, Albania and even North Macedonia for cheaper hotel and restaurant costs as well as traditional favourite Bulgaria.
Long haul holiday destinations are likely to see a spike in prices too, as Brits try to avoid booking connecting flights that go via Dubai, Doha and Abu Dhabi.
Some popular countries include Thailand, Vietnam, the Maldives and Bali, all of which usually fly via the Middle East.
There are alternative stopover destinations, usually via Turkey, Singapore or Hong Kong – but the soaring demand is likely to see these cost more this year too.
And with longer flight times? More jet fuel, so even more costs being passed on.
DEALS IN GREECE & SPAIN
Keen to book your next holiday ASAP? There are some great packages available to snap up right now.
*If you click on a link we will earn affiliate revenue.
Greece
Little Prince Apartments, Corfu
TUI offer a 7-night self-catering stay from 31 May including return flights from London Gatwick from £246.14pp.
Palm Beach Hotel, Kos
Jet2 Holidays offer a 7-night half board stay from 21 July including return flights from Glasgow from £561pp.
Sylvia, Crete
TUI offer a 7-night stay with breakfast from 30 July including return flights from Cardiff from £772.80pp. This offer includes one free child’s place.
Dedalos Beach Hotel, Crete
Booking.com offer a 5-night half-board stay from 1 June from £394pp, flights not included.
Trianta Hotel Apartments, Rhodes
TUI offer a 7-night self-catering stay from 2 August including return flights from Glasgow from £638pp. This offer includes one free child’s place.
Spain
Inter2, Salou
Jet2 Holidays offer a 5-night all-inclusive stay from 29 May including return flights from London Gatwick from £491pp.
Medplaya Hotel Monterrey, Girona
Booking.com offer a 5-night all-inclusive stay from 8 June from £157.50pp, flights not included.
Tabaiba, Costa Teguise, Lanzarote
TUI offer a 7-night self-catering stay from 13 July including return flights from London Gatwick from £447.12pp.
El Churra, Murcia
Jet2 Holidays offer a 5-night stay with breakfast from 24 May including return flights from Edinburgh from £548pp.
Poseidon La Manga Hotel & Spa, Murcia
Booking.com offer a 5-night half-board stay from 8 June from £231pp, flights not included.