named

Fernandes rewarded for outstanding season with record assists in the league; Shaw builds on league win and Golden Boot.

Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes was crowned the Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) Player of the Year, while Manchester City’s Khadija Shaw scooped the Women’s award for the second time.

The award wins on Tuesday highlighted the individual brilliance of both players, with contrasting fortunes for their respective teams during the season.

Portuguese international Fernandes broke the Premier League assists record during an outstanding 2025–26 season, setting up 21 goals as he surpassed Thierry Henry and Kevin De Bruyne’s previous mark.

The 31-year-old also scored nine times as United overcame a poor start to finish third in the Premier League under Michael Carrick and earned a return to the Champions League.

Fernandes also won the Football Writers’ Association Footballer of the Year award in May.

“It is obviously a very proud moment. They are the ones you go on the pitch against, and it’s probably not easy to vote for someone you play against, so it is a very good moment,” said Fernandes.

Shaw was rewarded for scoring 21 goals on the way to a third straight Golden Boot and securing City’s first Women’s Super League title in a decade.

City also saw further success as Nico O’Reilly was named Men’s Young Player of the Year.

The 21-year-old scored twice in the League Cup final as City beat Arsenal and was part of the side that also won the FA Cup last season.

“I’m very proud of the season I had,” said the England international. “I won two trophies with my club and managed to play at the World Cup with my country. I’m over the moon with how it turned out.”

O’Reilly was joined by City teammates Erling Haaland, Rayan Cherki and Antoine Semenyo in the Team of the Year.

Champions Arsenal had five representatives in David Raya, Gabriel, William Saliba, Jurrien Timber and Declan Rice, with Fernandes and Brentford’s Igor Thiago completing the XI.

Former Arsenal and France captain Patrick Vieira has been appointed as the new head coach of the Senegal men’s national team.

The 50‑year‑old replaces Pape Thiaw, who was sacked in the wake of the country’s last‑32 exit at the 2026 Fifa World Cup.

Born in Senegal’s capital Dakar, Vieira will now manage the country of his birth, having moved to France aged eight before later winning over 100 caps for Les Bleus and lifting the World Cup in 1998 and the European Championship in 2000.

Senegal’s football federation (FSF) said the appointment reflects its “desire to strengthen its high-level technical staff” and is “perfectly aligned” with the nation’s sporting ambitions.

Details of Vieria’s contract and his starting date in the role are still being discussed.

His first matches in charge of the Teranga Lions are expected to come next month in qualifiers for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon).

Vieira joins the West Africans after he left his role as Genoa head coach by mutual consent last November, with the team bottom of Serie A.

He won eight and drew nine of his 26 games during the 2024-25 season to guide the Italian club to safety and a 13th-place finish.

However, he left the club after managing just two wins in 25-26, with both of those victories coming in the Coppa Italia.

During his playing career, midfielder Vieira won three Premier League titles and four FA Cups at Arsenal, as well as silverware with AC Milan, Inter Milan and Manchester City.

He retired in 2011 and became the manager of New York City in 2016 before returning to Europe with Nice and leading them to seventh in Ligue 1 in his first season.

Vieira was sacked in December 2020 and became Crystal Palace manager the following year, guiding the Eagles to 12th in the Premier League and the FA Cup semi-finals in 2021-22.

He was dismissed in March 2023 after a 12-game winless run, before joining RC Strasbourg as their first appointment following a takeover by BlueCo, the company which owns Chelsea. He left Strasbourg by mutual consent in July 2024.

His predecessor Thiaw was at the centre of controversy in January when he ushered his Senegal team off the field when Morocco were awarded a stoppage-time penalty in the 2025 Afcon final.

The players eventually returned after a delay of about 17 minutes before Brahim Diaz’s penalty was saved and Pape Gueye scored an extra-time winner.

However, Morocco were declared the winners of the tournament in March when the a Confederation of African Football appeals board overturned the result of the final following Senegal’s walk-off.

Senegal have lodged an appeal against that decision with the Court of Arbitration for Sport – with the case due to be heard on 8 October.

THE summer holidays are still in full flow and there’s still plenty of time to head down to the beach.

If you’re stuck on which ones to visit, Skyscanner has just announced the best ones in the UK, making it much easier to decide where you head next.

The top picks were announced on its The Paradise Guide and were chosen from data like the average air and sea temperature to sun lounger availability and reviews.

At number one spot is Sandbanks Beach along the Dorset coast.

The beach is always highly regarded and has even been dubbed “The jewel in the crown of the English Coastline” by some.

Skyscanner said it was “ideal for families, swimming and watersports” thanks to its long and gently sloping sands.

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It holds Blue Flag status and has done since the awards began in 1987.

The beach also has an average peak-season temperature of 20.8C and a Tripadvisor rating of 4.6.

For a bit of sightseeing afterwards, head to Panorama Road which is also called ‘Millionaires Row’.

It’s home to celebrities like Harry and Sandra Redknapp, Graeme Souness and Geoffrey Boycott.

Other famous Sandbanks residents include Celia Sawyer, J.R.R Tolkien, John Lennon and Liam Gallagher.

In second place is Kent’s Botany Bay.

Skyscanner described it as one of the UK‘s “most distinctive beaches” thanks to its “striking” white chalk cliffs.

Botany Bay sits between trendy seaside towns Margate and Broadstairs.

Even better news for anyone keen to visit Botany Bay is that it doesn’t get much rain compared to other spots in the country.

On average, Botany Bay gets 58 days of rainfall each year – to put that in perspective, the UK gets an average 164 days of rain a year.

It’s also one of the warmest beaches in winter thanks to where it sits on the Channel with average temperatures of 9.5C.

Not only that but it even saw bright blue bioluminescent waters back in 2023.

In third place was St Andrew West Sands in Scotland.

Found in Fife, the beach is a 15-minute walk away from the town centre with “rolling dunes”.

Skyscanner said: “Made famous by the opening scene of Chariots of Fire, it’s a favourite for long walks, beach games and taking in sea views.

“At low tide, the expansive shoreline offers plenty of space to explore, while the nearby West Sands boardwalk provides an easy way to enjoy the surrounding dunes and coastline.”

While the beach is a little chillier at 15.8C, it has an average Tripadvisor rating of 4.7.

Skyscanner has introduced its new ‘beach match’ tool so travellers can find the ‘beach destinations that match’ their travel style.

Just pick the month you’re planning to travel and then choose from four categories.

These are ‘quiet and relaxed’, ‘lively and social’, ‘family friendly’ and ‘adventurous’.

Then choose amenities, the airport you’re flying into, how far you plan on travelling from there and a budget before finding your beach ‘match’.

Here are Skyscanner’s best beaches…

The UK’s Best Beaches

1. Sandbanks Beach, Dorset, England
2. Botany Bay, Kent, England
3. St Andrews West Sands, St Andrews, Scotland

The World’s most talked-about beaches

1. Palm Beach, Oranjestad, Aruba
2. La Jolla Cove, California, USA
3. Siesta Key Beach, Florida, USA

The world’s most underrated beaches

1. Embleton Bay, Northumberland, England
2. Rendezvous Bay, Montserrat
3. Castlerock Beach, Derry-Londonderry, Northern Ireland

The area frequently pops up in rankings of the best places to live, but its beaches have a dirty secret, with an average bacteria score that’s over twice as high as the national average

A district that includes one of the UK’s best places to live, and home to an iconic seaside town, has been named as the local authority with the ‘dirtiest’ sea water in England in a recent ranking.

The study carried out by online tour operator Exoticca.com looked at the Environment Agency’s publicly available bathing water statistics for all designated coastal swimming spots across England. The Environment Agency has an online tool where anyone can check the quality of beach and bathing water.

Water quality scores are based on two types of bacteria – Escherichia coli (E. coli) and intestinal enterococci – which can be an indicator of faecal contamination on beaches. Using this data, the study was able to rank local authorities across the country, and a surprising spot had the highest mean bacteria score.

The local authority with the highest mean bacteria score was Folkestone and Hythe, with a mean bacteria score of 3.273. Across all beaches in the study, the mean was 1.033, meaning bacteria levels on its beaches appeared to be three times higher than average.

Included in the study was Littlestone, which had a score of 8.213, making it the third dirtiest beach in England, while Dymchurch had a score of 4.173 and came in tenth, meaning both these beaches were rated poor by the Environment Agency.

However, the area did have two beaches where the waters were ranked as excellent; Hythe and Seabrook scored 0.627 and 0.504 respectively.

A Folkestone & Hythe District Council spokesperson said: “We continue to champion the district as an extraordinary place to visit – whether that be our stunning coastline, breathtaking countryside or world-class creative and cultural scene.

“This council believes there should be out-of-season testing (between October and April) to try to establish the reasoning behind the deterioration of bathing water classifications. We continue to make this case to the Environment Agency and Southern Water.”

Folkestone beach itself ranked at number 20 in the list of individual beaches with potentially contaminated sea water in England. That comes as a surprise, given the seaside town has seen a surge in popularity in recent years. In 2024, it was included in the Times’ 2024 Best Places to Live guide, ranking as the regional winner of the best place to live in the South East of England.

Despite its appearance on the list, Dymchurch was once named best beach in the south east in The Sunday Times best beaches guide back in 2022. In the same year, it was one of the Kent beaches to receive the Seaside Award from Keep Britain Tidy, which according to the BBC “is presented to the best beaches in England and is used to celebrate the quality and diversity of resorts”.

A spokesperson for Exoticca.com said: “It’s important to remember that a local authority’s overall average doesn’t always tell the whole story for a specific beach. Coastal water quality can change a surprising amount in just a few miles.”

They added: “In Folkestone and Hythe, the local authority with the dirtiest water on average. Here, Seabrook’s water is classed as excellent with a score of 0.504 and Littlestone, which is just nine miles away, has the third dirtiest water in the entire country with a score of 8.213. A local authority average gives a great idea of a region’s water cleanliness, but it’s always best to look at the specific numbers for the exact beach you plan to visit.”

Have a story you want to share? Email us at webtravel@reachplc.com

Wimbledon semi-finalist Arthur Fery has been included in Great Britain’s Davis Cup team to face Ecuador in September.

Former world number four Jack Draper is not included but a fifth player will be added closer to the time.

British number one Cameron Norrie, Henry Patten and Lloyd Glasspool make up the team to play at London’s Copper Box Arena.

“I am really proud to be able to represent GB again,” Fery said. “It is going to be a bit of a different scenario this time, at home, in the World Group and trying to qualify for the final eight.

“There might be some extra pressure, but I’m ready for it.”

Fery, 24, jumped to a career-high world ranking of 36 following his shock Wimbledon success, when he was a wildcard into his home Grand Slam.

Ranked 114th in the world before the start of the tournament, Fery went on to become the lowest-ranked player to make Wimbledon’s last four since Goran Ivanisevic in 2001.

This will be Fery’s first outing in England since Wimbledon.

Draper, 24, broke down in tears earlier this month midway through his first game since June following long-term injury difficulties.

A persistent arm injury has kept him sidelined and caused his world ranking to plummet from fourth to as low as 160th over a 12-month period.

The best-of-five tie takes place over two days on 19 and 20 September, with two singles matches on day one.

Day two features a doubles match followed by two singles encounters.

Fery was unable to celebrate his Davis Cup inclusion as he suffered a 7-5 7-6 (7-3) defeat on Monday to world number eight Alex de Minaur in the third round of the Cincinnati Masters.

Rain delayed the start of play, before later forcing the players off with fifth seed De Minaur leading 7-5 5-1.

Fery fought back after a 30-minute delay to take the second set to a tie-break, but his Australian opponent was able to wrestle back control and see out victory.

THE most beautiful beaches in the world have been revealed and good news – you can find a number of them in the UK.

Compiled by Big 7, the top 50 for 2026 are a mix of very well-known spots to some very hidden islands.

The study looks at a number of factors, such as cleanliness, social media mentions and expert knowledge.

You’ll have to hop on a long flight to find the no.1 beach, as that was given to Anse Source d’Argent in the Seychelles.

The website praised it for looking like “it should be on the front of a postcard,” with its calm waters and and shallow lagoons.

In second place was Entalula Beach in the Philippines – which you can only get to by boat – followed by Indonesia’s Pink Beach which yes, has pink sand thanks to the red coral mixed into it.

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When it comes to Europe, the highest ranked beach was Cala Macarella in Menorca, which came in eight place.

The Spanish island beach was praised for being the “quieter and smaller sibling of Majorca and Ibiza” as well as its soft sands and turquoise waters.

But if you don’t want to go too far, then the three in the UK are easy to get to.

Porthcurno Beach in Cornwall came in ninth place, and was the only English beach to make the list.

The website stated: “Porthcurno Beach is easily one of England’s most beautiful.

“With the clear waters and bright sands of Porthcurno Beach, it’s easy to imagine that you’re in the tropics.”

This was closely followed by Luskentyre Beach in Scotland, which just missed out on making the top 10 by being in 11th place.

Also compared to the Caribbean, they stated: “The white sands and turquoise waters make it hard to believe that you’re closer to Norway than Cornwall.”

And then in 31st place was the only Welsh beach to make the list, with Whitesands Beach making the cut.

It states: “Located on Wales’ spectacular Pembrokeshire coast, Whitesands Beach proves that you don’t need tropical weather to enjoy a stunning beach.

“Rolling surf foams onto the golden sands, while the rugged cliffs which provide the backdrop to the beach make Whitesands a favoured spot for families, hikers, and surfers alike.”

Other highly rated European beaches include Ksamil Beach in Albania (19th) which is often called the Maldives of Europe.

There is also Navagio Beach in Zante (21st), Haukland Beach in Norway (25th) and Palombaggia Beach in Corsica (28th).

Beaches in Madeira, Sardinia and Iceland also made the top 50.

World’s 50 Best Beaches

1. Anse Source d’Argent, Seychelles
2. Entalula Beach, Philippines
3. Pink Beach, Indonesia
4. Sandy Lane Beach, Barbados
5. Ee Motu Beach, Cook Islands
6. Whitehaven Beach, Australia
7. Matira Beach, French Polynesia
8. Cala Macarella, Menorca, Spain
9. Porthcurno Beach, UK
10. Mirissa Beach, Sri Lanka
11. Luskentyre Beach, UK
12. Starfish Beach, Vietnam
13. Tortuga Bay, Galápagos Islands
14. Keem Beach, Ireland
15. White Beach, Philippines
16. Unawatuna Beach, Sri Lanka
17. Eagle Beach, Aruba
18. Copacabana Beach, Brazil
19. Ksamil Beach, Albania
20. Boulders Beach, South Africa
21. Navagio Beach, Zakynthos, Greece
22. Dhigura Beach, Maldives
23. Radhanagar Beach, Havelock Island, India
24. Seven Mile Beach, Grand Cayman
25. Haukland Beach, Norway
26. Railay Beach, Thailand
27. Horseshoe Bay, Fiji
28. Palombaggia Beach, France
29. Reynisfjara Beach, Iceland
30. Santa Monica Beach, Cape Verde
31. Whitesands Beach, Wales
32. Chumbe Island, Tanzania
33. Champagne Beach, Vanuatu
34. Le Morne Beach, Mauritius
35. Waikiki Beach, Hawaii, USA
36. Plaua Kenepa Grandi, Curacao
37. Piha Beach, New Zealand
38. Playa Varadero, Cuba
39. Playa Blanca, Colombia
40. Bavaro Beach, Dominican Republic
41. Long Beach, Cambodia
42. Fteri Beach, Greece
43. La Jolla Cove, California, USA
44. Shoal Bay East, Anguilla
45. Playa Akumal, Mexico
46. Sugar Beach, St Lucia
47. La Pelosa Beach, Sardinia, Italy
48. Karon Beach, Thailand
49. Seixal Beach, Madeira
50. Manly Beach, Australia

Having led Europe to a comfortable win at Rome’s Marco Simone Golf Club in 2023, captain Donald stayed in post to guide them to a stunning victory on US soil at Bethpage Black, in New York, in 2025.

At Adare Manor, he could become the first captain to win three in a row and will be only the fourth captain to lead at three straight Ryder Cups after Ben Hogan, Sam Snead and Bernard Gallacher.

He says Harrington will form a key part of his backroom staff in his quest to make history.

“I’ve been around Padraig in many Ryder Cup team rooms, as a player, as a vice captain to his captaincy, and he’s been a vice captain before as well,” Donald said. “So he brings a wealth of experience.

“I do love the fact that there’s a connection. He understands the Irish crowds and all that goes with having a Ryder Cup in Ireland. I think it’s going to be very special for him.

“He’s loved in Ireland with what he’s achieved in the game, and that will only bring more energy to our team.”

It will be the first time the competition has been held in Ireland since 2006, when Harrington was in the European team that won 18½-9½ at the K Club, County Kildare.

“You wouldn’t want to miss out with it being in Ireland, so I’m very pleased,” Harrington added. “I think it will be a spectacular occasion and one of the great sporting events to be played in the country. The whole of Ireland will be behind it, watching it, enjoying it and living it.

“The fans are going to be fantastic, and I think the atmosphere will be second to none.”

In total, Harrington played in 25 matches across six Ryder Cups, winning 10½ points for Team Europe, while he also boasts 44 tournament victories across a glittering career.

He still plays on the DP World Tour and in major championships, most recently at The Open.

Since turning 50 in 2021, he has starred on the Champions Tour, including winning a record-equalling three US Senior Open titles.

Ross Douthat, a longtime conservative voice on the New York Times op-ed page, has been hired as full-time correspondent on “60 Minutes.”

Douthat is the first full-time correspondent named to the venerable CBS News magazine program since it underwent a massive shake-up last spring.

His hiring was announced Tuesday.

CBS News executives are trying to fill several correspondent roles after veterans Scott Pelley, Sharyn Alfonsi, Cecilia Vega and executive producer Tanya Simon were fired by CBS News editor in chief Bari Weiss.

Anderson Cooper turned down a new deal to continue as a contributing correspondent.

Douthat, 46, is not frequently seen on television.

He hosted a video podcast, “Interesting Times,” for the New York Times opinion section which explored religion and politics.

On “60 Minutes,” he will become the most prominent conservative voice on a broadcast news network.

Douthat has been with the Times opinion page since 2009, when he replaced conservative columnist Bill Kristol.

The Times section is where Weiss first made her name as anti-woke contrarian before she launched the like-minded digital news site the Free Press, which was acquired last year by CBS News parent Paramount.

Weiss was hired as editor in chief of CBS News in October with a mandate from Paramount Chief Executive David Ellison to pull the network more to the political center. The hiring of Douthat addresses that desire.

Nick Bilton, whom Weiss hired as executive producer of “60 Minutes,” also named three contributors to the program.

• Author and filmmaker Sebastian Junger, 64, who wrote “The Perfect Storm” and covered the Afghanistan war for ABC News. He is a Peabody Award winner.
• Gianna Toboni, 39, a former correspondent for Vice News who most recently was a reporter for CNN. She will also be a CBS News national correspondent.
• Trevor Phillips, 72, a British journalist who joined CBS News earler this year as a senior global affairs correspondent. He also worked in British politics.

Several internal names are still being considered for full-time and contributor roles on the program. They include “CBS Sunday Morning” veteran Seth Doane, national correspondent Matt Guttman and foreign correspondent Holly Phillips. “CBS Evening News” anchor Tony Doukopil is also expected be a contributor.

Veteran correspondents Lesley Stahl, Bill Whitaker, Norah O’Donnell and Jon Wertheim are also returning to the program, which begins its 58th season on Sept. 13.

The internal discord at “60 Minutes” followed a highly successful season where its ratings increased by 9% according to Nielsen.

But there was turmoil throughout the season as Weiss fired Alfonsi and Vega — both of whom complained that the executive pushed them to add right-wing talking points to their stories.

In response to the firings, Pelley accused Weiss of “murdering” the program and claimed she was putting “her thumb on the scale” for more favorable coverage of President Trump’s administration.

Pelley was shown the door with cause after confronting management over the firings at a June 1 meeting.

Ex-superstar player succeeds Didier Deschamps as France manager after the national team’s bitter semifinal exit in the United States.

Former France midfielder Zinedine Zidane will take over as national team head coach, the French Football Federation posted on X on Tuesday.

The appointment of the former Real Madrid manager comes two weeks after Didier Deschamps’ tenure as coach ended following France’s fourth-place finish at the World Cup. His final match in charge was the 6-4 defeat by England.

Zidane, 54, is expected to begin his reign with an away UEFA Nations League game against Turkiye before France host Italy at the Stade de France on October 2.

Deschamps, who left after 14 years at the helm, oversaw 185 matches and 120 victories, guiding France to the 2018 World Cup title, the 2020-21 Nations League trophy and the Euro 2016 and 2022 World Cup finals.

Both share a long association, having been teammates in the 1998 World Cup-winning side at  home in France.

Zidane played a pivotal role in that triumph and won the Ballon d’Or that year.

The town beat well-known destinations like Bamburgh, Brighton, St Ives and Whitstable to be crowned the winner

A coastal town with a population of 60,000 has dethroned other popular destinations as the most charming the UK has to offer.

Bamburgh and Seahouses have seen their days of glory and renown, but now it’s time to give some love to another spot in the North East, which was recently named the most charming seaside destination by Lonely Planet magazine, just nine miles from Newcastle.

Tynemouth is an easy and accessible weekend day-trip destination, recognised for its sandy beaches, scenic walks, lively independent-shop scene, food, and attractions.

For the ultimate day out in Tynemouth, go on a Saturday or Sunday and pay a visit to Tynemouth Market, held inside the old Victorian metro station beneath a striking glass roof. There, stalls sell everything from vintage clothing to antiques.

From there, it’s a short walk to the main attraction – Tynemouth Priory and Castle, a headland ruin dating back to the 7th century that towers over the North Sea.

The place is Tynemouth’s most famous postcard, giving visitors a great view of the sea.

After looking around and learning some of the town’s history, it’s time to head downstairs to King Edward’s Bay, a sheltered cove where you’ll find some of the best seafood in the area, and get to lounge around if you manage to find a spot – it tends to get pretty busy during the summer months.

But for a proper swim, the place locals recommend is Longsands Beach, a mile-long stretch that regularly pulls top marks from visitors.

But if you’re not the sitting-down-and relaxing-by-the-sea kind, you’ll find some more active fun in Hadrian’s Cycleway – a 174-mile coast-to-coast route that begins right here in Tynemouth.

Nearby, the Lord Collingwood Monument offers one of the best free viewpoints in town, described by a visitor on TripAdvisor as having privileged views of “the docks at North Shields, the priory, and the castle.”

Families and people of all ages can also enjoy Tynemouth Park, home to an unexpectedly popular attraction. One online reviewer said they’d “had an enjoyable time playing the 18-hole dinosaur-themed crazy golf courses”.

Then, in July, Tynemouth gets ready for its big event. Every year, almost 100,000 visitors come to town for the Mouth of Tyne Festival, a free event that culminates in an open-air concert staged right at the Priory ruins.

Over the years, iconic headliners have included Sam Fender, Bryan Ferry, Elbow, and Paloma Faith.

You can reach Tynemouth from London in 3 hours and 20 minutes by train, or 5 to 6 hours by car. From Manchester, the journey takes under three hours by either mode. From Edinburgh, it’s about two hours by train or car.

AS EUROPEAN city breaks go, Vienna might not get much of a look-in between the likes of Venice and Valencia.

But the picturesque capital of Austria, which has centuries of history and is reachable in two hours, is having a moment.

Not only did Vienna host this year’s Eurovision Song Contest, it’s also been named the city with the best quality of life for three years running, with an abundance of cultural experiences and top cuisine.

WHY SHOULD I GO?

It is impossible not to be mesmerised by the sights, most notably St Stephen’s Cathedral.

The striking structure, which dates back to the 12th century, is in the city centre — a Unesco World Cultural Heritage site in itself — and climbing the South Tower’s 343 steps offers breathtaking views.

Vienna has much more than just museums and concerts, though.

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It is also home to the world’s oldest operating zoo, founded in 1752, where you’ll find 500 different species, including penguins and koalas.

THESE STREETS ARE MADE FOR WALKING?

The centre — where impressive sights include Heldenplatz — can be reached in around 20 minutes from Vienna Airport by train.

Top tip: take the standard local trains — costing €5.40 (£4.68) — rather than the more expensive CAT train (€14.90, or £12.92) which takes around the same length of time.

In general, the city is very walkable, with lots of flat terrain and pedestrianised areas.

For anything further afield, you can hop on the metro (single ticket €2.40, or £2.07), which even runs through the night on weekends.

If you want to see the sights at a gentle clip-clop, flag down one of the many Viennese horse-drawn ­carriages, known as Fiakers, with a 20-minute journey costing around €60 (£51.78).

ANYTHING FOR THE BUCKET LIST?

Browse the luxury brands of the Kohlmarkt shopping street until you get to the grand Michaelerplatz.

It is right beside here that you can visit the Spanish Riding School in the Hofburg to watch performances by their incredibly talented Lipizzaner breed of horses.

A short stroll away is the MuseumsQuartier, considered to be one of the largest arts and cultural complexes in the world — with the Leopold Museum (tickets €19, or £16.40) considered a highlight.

If you are in the mood for masterpieces, The Belvedere, the city’s Baroque palace complex, is home to Klimt’s iconic The Kiss painting (entry €23, or £19.85).

WHERE SHOULD I EAT?

A trip to Vienna isn’t complete without a wiener schnitzel — the breaded, pan-fried veal cutlet native to the city.

Order it alongside the locals at 160-year-old tavern Gmoakeller.

Further must-haves from the country’s cuisine are its desserts, and the most famous, the sachertorte chocolate cake and the apfelstrudel, can both be enjoyed at Cafe Demel.

A hearty breakfast can be enjoyed at Oefferl, which has a number of branches around the city and bakes fresh pretzels daily.

If you fancy a lighter bite, Bastis Sandwich Bar serves great subs and chicken wings and is close to the impressive Wien Museum of Vienna (free entry).

I FANCY A DRINK…

The coffee house culture in Vienna is so strong that it has been listed an “intangible cultural heritage” by Unesco — and there are numerous cosy spots around the city.

An espresso topped with whipped cream is a traditional caffeine fix here, but you’ll find plenty of other options on the menu at the historic Cafe Hawelka, which has been open since 1945 and was frequented by Andy Warhol.

For an afternoon beer or a glass of wine — including affordable Austrian options that are €5.30 (£4.57) a glass — you can’t go wrong with the terrace of Zum Schwarzen Kameel, especially if the weather is good.

For an evening cocktail, Chez Bernard’s rooftop has outstanding views.

WHERE SHOULD I STAY?

The Hoxton Vienna is within walking distance of the city’s main sights — particularly Belvedere and the scenic Stadtpark.

The hotel used to be the Austrian Chamber of Commerce, and its stylish but warm interiors still have mid-century modern design details throughout.

Guests also have exclusive use of the rooftop pool, which is the largest in the city.

There are also plenty of dining options on site, including the Bouvier restaurant with French ­elements on the menu, a Cuban- inspired rooftop bar called Cayo Coco and Salon Paradise, a speakeasy-style bar in the basement.

Research highlights the vast difference between the same holiday items – from a cup of coffee to a meal out – between summer destinations popular with UK families

Families after a bargain break this summer should head to the Algarve, research found.

Portugal’s ever popular hotspot emerged as cheapest once holidaymakers get to their destination.

The research by Post Office Travel Money looked at 10 things tourist typically shell out on, including a three course family meal, lunch for two, through to suncream, a cup of coffee, and insect repellent. The results revealed a near £130 difference between the cheapest and the most expensive amount 22 destinations included, which could really stack up for a typical family over the course of a week or longer.

The Algarve came out top, with the 10 items costing £139.65, and 2.7% less than a year ago.

Next cheapest was Sunny Beach, Bulgaria, where the same came to £142.16, with the Canary Islands, Menorca and Spain’s Costa Brava making up the remainder of the top five where travellers’ money will go the furthest.

At the other of the scale, the most expensive among the 22 destinations included was Sorrento in Italy, with the 10 purchases costing £268. Families should expect to shell out a whopping £150 for a meal, compared with £88 on the Algarve.

The Post Office Travel Money Family Holiday Report was published in the week that many schools in England break up for the summer holiday

Echoing past years, prices varied by as much as 92% across the 22 destinations surveyed. There are also big differences between resorts in the same country.

In Greece, for example, the barometer totals ranged from £181 in Kos to £222 in Crete.

And while a cup of coffee in Sorrento can typically set tourists back £4.37, four hours across the country in Puglia it is £1.14, according to the report.

Laura Plunkett, head of Post Office Travel Money, which accounts for one-in-four UK currency

transactions, said: “We found big variations in costs between the European resorts surveyed, which means it is more important than ever to do some research before heading off on your holiday to inform how much holiday cash you’ll need for meals, drinks and other tourist staples. For those families who haven’t already booked and are looking for a late deal, the low resort prices in Portugal and Spain make these countries great value for money, while Bulgaria’s Black Sea resorts are strong contenders too.”

1. Algarve, Portugal £139.65

2. Sunny Beach, Bulgaria £142.16

3. Canary Islands £147.42

4. Menorca £151.28

5. Costa Brava, Spain £155.02

6. Canary Islands £158.31

7. Marmaris, Turkey £158.33

8. Costa del Sol, Spain £163.17

9. Costa Blanca £173.41

10. Paphos, Cyprus £177.18

11. Sliema, Malta £181.21

12. Kos, Greece £181.38

13. Rhodes, Greece £186.10

14. Porec, Croatia £199.68

15. Puglia, Italy £203.05

16. Corfu, Greece £204.34

17. Zadar, Croatia £211.90

18. Ibiza £211.90

19. Majorca £219.65

20. Crete, Greece £211.57

21. Funchal, Madeira £260

22. Sorrento, Italy £268.23

NESTLED in the Scottish Highlands is one of the quirkiest holiday homes in the country.

Eagle Brae is a Scottish hidden gem made up of beautiful log cabins that sit on a remote hillside.

It’s consistently rated as ‘the most unique luxury log cabin resort in Scotland‘ and made an appearance on Tripadvisor’s 2026 Best of the Best Awards this year.

It is part of the worldwide one of a kind category – and came in third on the list overall.

To make the cut, the hotel or holiday home has to be in the top one per cent of over eight million listings on Tripadvisor – so it’s a very impressive feat.

On Tripadvisor, Eagle Brae has 696 five-star reviews – one guest called it the “best place in Scotland” with others calling their stay “magical”, “faultless” and “heaven on Earth”.

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The unique stay was described by Tripadvisor as “Hobbit-level cottagecore” thanks to its Middle-earth look.

Eagle Brae is made up of ten wooden log cabins with open-air decks and grass on the roof.

Inside all the cabins it’s very cosy with log burners, comfy sofas, plaid patterned curtains and cushions, with deer antlers hanging on the walls.

The larger cabins can sleep up to six people to suit family stays, smaller ones sleep up to two people – and dogs are welcome too.

The log cabins are self-catered, so each is kitted out with a fully-equipped kitchen.

There’s even a concierge service for anyone who wants a fully stocked pantry before arrival.

Eagle Brae is near Glen Affric National Nature Reserve and the River Farrar so there’s plenty of opportunity to do outdoor activities.

They offer guided canoe trips, black grouse safaris, pony trekking, mountain biking, clay pigeon shooting and even pony trekking.

At Eagle Brae and while exploring the area, you’re likely to spot wildlife like red deer and squirrels, pine martens and perhaps even a golden eagle.

Back at the log cabins, on a clear night, it’s possible to see the Northern Lights.

Rates for larger cabins like Aquila that sleeps six offer short breaks from £1,064.

Rates for Parus, which sleeps two, has short breaks from £833.

Here are the top 10 ‘one of a kind’ hotels in the WORLD…

According to Tripadvisor these are the most unique stays…

1. Crane Hotel Faralda, Amsterdam
2. Valley Views Camping, New Zealand
3. Eagle Brae, Scotland
4. Taj Lake Palace, India
5. Shinta Mani Wild, Cambodia
6. Treehouse Lodge, Peru
7. La Tour D’eole, Morocco
8. Nayara Bocas Del Toro, Panama
9. Fingal Hotel, Edinburgh
10. Skylodge Adventure Suites, Peru

If you’re looking for a staycation this summer, this beautiful UK city should be top of your list, with its picture-postcard scenes and status as the world’s happiest for 2026

The happiest city in the world has been named for 2026, and it’s right here in the UK.

There’s a lot that can define what makes a great city, from its green space, shops, sights and culture, but knowing that residents are happy is perhaps one of the most telling. After all, if they’re content residing there, we’re bound to enjoy a weekend or a day trip to the city that even the locals praise.

Luckily for us, the happiest city in the world is right on our doorstep, as Bath topped the list in Time Out’s annual ranking. In a survey of more than 24,000 locals, respondents were asked to rate various aspects of their city, including its culture, green spaces, neighbourhoods, food offerings, art and nightlife, community spirit, and overall happiness.

Thanks to glowing reviews from locals, Bath was named the world’s happiest city for 2026 by Time Out. A staggering 93% of residents in the beautiful city, nestled in the valley of the River Avon in Somerset, agreed that their city made them happy, while 92% also said that they feel happiest in Bath than anywhere else.

The research also found that 90% of locals had positive experiences with their neighbours, while 91% found joy in everyday life, thanks to the city’s offerings. Community is a major factor in Bath, with 83% saying it’s easy to find in the city, while 76% agreed that their sense of happiness has recently increased, with green space and nature also topping the rankings.

Bath is one of the most popular cities in the UK, drawing in around six million visitors every year, so it’s hardly surprising to hear that it’s been widely recognised. However, there’s so much more to the city, and it’s absolutely brimming with life, whether you’re a local or a tourist.

As a UNESCO World Heritage site, the renowned spa town is celebrated for its preserved Roman Baths, grand honey-hued Georgian architecture and natural thermal springs. Adding to its picture-postcard scene are the cobblestone lanes, pristine gardens and parks, the historic Pulteney Bridge, and sweeping townhouses, all set within the rolling hills of Somerset.

I’ve spent countless days wandering around the city that easily makes you feel as though you’ve stepped onto a film set, and rightly so, as it’s notoriously been used as the stunning backdrop for the hugely popular Netflix drama Bridgerton. The Royal Crescent and the Holburne Museum were featured in the series, while Bath has also appeared in movies such as Les Misérables, Wonka and The Duchess.

Against its serene backdrop, the city’s food scene is nothing short of exceptional, and over the years, I’ve tasted some of the best food in the world. One of my go-to spots is the Mexican restaurant Dos Dedos, tucked down Bartlett Street, serving up tacos alongside a spicy margarita in its vibrant, funky setting that comes alive by night.

Another favourite of mine is the Japanese restaurant Robun, which offers traditional sharing plates and bento boxes. It has been featured in the Michelin Guide alongside 11 other restaurants in Bath, including Olive Tree, Upstairs at Landrace, Emberwood and Beckford Canteen.

For an authentic Italian, I recommend a visit to Portofino, which is one of the many independent restaurants in Bath. For that desirable lunch stop, Cortado Café is another favourite among mine, serving up a selection of mouthwatering empanadas and artisan coffee that you won’t be able to find anywhere else.

But no visit to Bath for me is complete without a stop at Good Day Cafe for one of their incredible brookies – a cookie and brownie all rolled into one. For that extra sweet treat on a summer’s day, there’s Brickell’s Ice Cream, and for a refreshing beer, Kingsmead Street Bottle can’t be missed.

Aside from going on a food crawl around the city with flavours from around the world, there’s plenty to do and a plethora of attractions. Some of the city’s most famous include tours around the ancient Roman Baths, or a relaxing afternoon spent at Thermae Bath Spa, where you can soak in the rooftop pool with panoramic city views.

There are boat trips available to meander down the river, and the tranquil Royal Victoria Park to soak up the city’s ambience before a walk past the towering Bath Abbey, in the heart of the city and, by Christmas, the backdrop to the famed market. But I find that the best way to explore Bath is just by following my feet and seeing what I stumble upon, after all, that’s what locals would do.

Do you have a travel story to share? Email webtravel@reachplc.com

If you’re looking for a crowd-free holiday, this island is the perfect option.

As the summer holidays approach, the excitement of planning a getaway often comes with the puzzle of picking the perfect spot. Luckily, being in Britain puts the diverse beauty of Europe just a stone’s throw away.

Navigating the sheer volume of stunning destinations on our doorstep can be quite the task. For those who crave peace and quiet, the secret is finding those hidden gems tucked away from the main tourist paths that still promise a sun-soaked, relaxing experience. To help you out, the travel pros at Solmar Villas analysed over 160 locations to pinpoint the absolute best spots for a crowd-free break.

Whilst most of the destinations are overseas, there is one place right here in the UK that made the list.

The Isle of Harris in Scotland came in at sixth place on the list of the quietest places to enjoy a summer holiday. Harris is the southern island of Harris and Lewis which are in Scotland’s Outer Hebrides.

Despite being the third biggest island on the British Isles, Harris and Lewis has a population of just 20,500 people. Known for its white-sand beaches, dramatic landscapes and low population density, it remains one of the UK’s quietest summer staycation escapes.

One of the most famous sights on the island is Luskentyre Beach which is frequently mentioned on lists of the most beautiful beaches in the world.

This long stretch of bright white sand looks as if it’s been plucked straight from the Caribbean — although the water is likely a little bit colder.

Luskentyre Beach sits on the north coast of South Harris and is protected by the island of Taransay, which you can see across the water.

Taking a wander down the white sand you can spot dolphins, seals, otters, eagles and sometimes even whales. The Isle of Harris is a gorgeous spot for a relaxed summer holiday without having to bother about airport security or expensive international flights.

To get to the island, ferries go daily from the Scottish mainland and you can take a car with you too so you can better explore what the island has to offer.

Sharon Bradbury, a travel expert at Solmar Villas , said: “Many families don’t have the option of travelling outside the school holidays, so choosing the right destination becomes even more important.

“What stands out from this research is that some of the world’s most enjoyable summer destinations don’t necessarily attract the biggest crowds. For families looking to make the most of their summer break, it can be worth looking beyond the usual hotspots.

“A quieter destination often means a more relaxed experience from the moment you arrive.”

The 20 quietest places to visit on school holidays

1. Alonissos, Greece
2. El Hierro, Spain
3. Skopelos, Greece
4. Mustique, St. Vincent and Grenadines
5. La Gomera, Spain
6. Paxos, Greece
7. Åland Islands, Finland
8. Isle of Harris, United Kingdom
9. Costa Verde, Spain
10. Koh Yao Noi, Thailand
11. Mani Peninsula, Greece
12. La Palma, Spain
13. Skeleton Coast, Namibia
14. Fernando de Noronha, Brazil
15. Cantabria, Spain
16. Esposende, Portugal
17. Koh Mak, Thailand
18. Con Dao Islands, Vietnam
19. Aitutaki, Cook Islands
20. Little Corn Island, Nicaragua

SEASIDE towns – the UK sure does have a fair few, but with so many stunning spots, it is easy for others to be forgotten about or even bashed.

This is the case for Bognor Regis this week, as it has been named the WORST seaside town in the UK.

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In research carried out by Which?, towns were voted on by more than 5,300 people focusing on a range of criteria including the quality of the beaches, scenery, food and drink, accommodation, tourist attractions, shopping and value for money.

Bognor Regis scored just 41 per cent overall, achieving one star in all categories, bar one.

Having visited just last week, and on a number of occasions before, I think (or rather, I know) they’ve got it wrong.

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Bognor Regis is actually the sunniest spot in the UK – and what is not to love about that?

Tie this in with its long-stretching beach with miles of sea views and it’s hard not to love.

The main beach (known as East Beach) is unbeatable. While it is a pebble beach, there is plenty of space to put up a deck chair and enjoy the waves crashing on the stones.

Though, if you do want to go on a walk but avoid the pebbles, running along the beach is a nice flat esplanade.

Sat at the edge of the beach you will also find a number of things to do.

For example, you can head to the pier which is full of arcade machines and instead of your usual keyring prizes, you can bag a Jellycat (I tried and failed to get the seagull).

Also along the beach you will find Luna Hut Sauna Bognor Regis where you can head straight from the sea to the sauna and then sit looking out at the ocean.

You can choose between a half-an-hour session and an hour-and-a-half session, costing from £8 per person.

You can also pick up an ice cream for a couple of quid, or fish and chips for under a tenner – prices that are getting harder to find these days.

Alternatively, you can head to West Beach, which is west of the town centre and is normally less crowded.

For something free to do, visit the Bognor Regis Museum which has lots of exhibits on local history, fossils, vintage cameras and even an extensive radio collection.

And would it even be a proper trip to Bognor Regis if you didn’t go to Butlin’s?

Butlin’s Bognor Regis is home to a wealth of things to do – with the most recent experience being a claw machine which claimed the Guinness World Record title for the biggest in the world.

For little ones, there are soft play areas, fairground rides and a tonne of shows.

Bigger kids can also enjoy PlayXperience, can only be found at Butlin’s Bognor Regis and boasts escape rooms, crazy golf, VR games and more.

On my last visit, I spent hours jumping between the different experiences, getting competitive at interactive darts and losing the crazy golf game along the way.

Another great attraction at the resort is the Splash Waterworld, which has a splash area with tipping buckets for little ones and slides for older kids.

What makes this all even better is that you don’t have to stay to enjoy all of this – you could just book a day ticket.

These tickets will be 15 per cent cheaper from July 17 until September 1 as well, thanks to the Government’s Great British Summer Savings scheme.

As for the town centre, which admittedly it is a little run down in places and with a horde of chain stores, there are still some gems including places for a good bite to eat and others for a cheap pint.

For example, you could go to The Hatter’s Inn, a Wetherspoons pub with pints of Worthington’s creamflow for just £1.99.

And for a bite to eat, check out Bonito Lounge which serves a range of feel-good, comfort dishes including fish and chips with a drink for £12.09 and bottomless coffee refills for £1.89.

The building is covered in plants and it has some lovely outdoor seating to ensure you’re making the most of being in the sunniest spot in the UK.

It doesn’t take long to reach the seaside destination from London either – it takes under two hours on the train, direct.

And if you do happen to be coming by train, make sure to head into the station’s bookshop for a tonne of cheap, second hand books.

So ignore the ‘stats’ that say its the worst town – it has all the charm of seaside towns gone by, with cheap prices, great pubs, and fantastic holiday parks to boot.

What’s not to love?

The nation has an excellent publicly funded healthcare system

The world’s most liveable city for 2026 has been revealed in The Economist Intelligence Unit’s latest Global Liveability Index. The research examined education, stability, healthcare, infrastructure, and culture across 173 cities around the globe.

Copenhagen, the Danish capital, claimed the top spot as this year’s most liveable city, retaining the title for the second consecutive year. The European city was awarded “perfect” scores across the stability, infrastructure and education categories.

The Economist Intelligence Unit said: “In our 2026 survey, Copenhagen ( Denmark ) retained pole position for the second year running, scoring a perfect 100 out of 100 in three categories and above 95 in the other two, with Vienna ( Austria ) and Melbourne ( Australia ) close behind.”

Copenhagen has also been ranked among the world’s most walkable cities in 2026, according to a recent study by Time Out magazine.

The Danish capital is “compact and mostly flat” with “clearly marked pedestrian zones and elevated pavements”. Copenhagen is also home to Europe’s first and longest pedestrian-only street, Strøget.

Healthcare in Copenhagen is widely regarded as “excellent”. The nation boasts an exceptional publicly funded healthcare system offering free medical treatment, superb infrastructure and highly qualified doctors.

Most liveable cities in the world

1. Copenhagen, Denmark
2. Vienna, Austria
3. Melbourne, Australia
4. Sydney, Australia
5. Zurich, Switzerland
6. Geneva, Switzerland
7. Osaka, Japan
8. Adelaide, Australia
9. Vancouver, Canada
10. Tokyo, Japan

Which? has released the results of its best and worst seaside towns and villages in the UK survey, with Bamburgh, Bognor Regis, Tynemouth, St Andrews and Clacton on Sea all making notable entries

The greatest and most miserable seaside towns and villages on our fair island have been named.

Once again, coastal big hitters Cornwall and Devon have found themselves some way off the top of the list, while a pretty northern village has made it to the number spot for a sixth year in a row.

At the other end of the scale, a southern town known for its Butlin’s and for being one of the sunniest destinations in the UK has been condemned as the worst of the worst.

Which? surveyed over 5,300 people about their experiences of UK seaside destinations in the last year, asking their views on a range of criteria including the quality of the beaches, scenery, food and drink, accommodation, tourist attractions, shopping and value for money.

Bamburgh in Northumberland took the top spot in Which?’s survey for the sixth year running. With an overall destination score of 84 per cent, Bamburgh was given five stars for its beach, seafront and scenery. Visitors praised the “lovely beach overlooking Bamburgh Castle” and the “spectacular coastal scenery.”

Do you agree with the rankings? Email webtravel@reachplc.com or let us know in the comments below

It’s easy to see why Bamburgh is so loved. Situated not far from the mysterious Holy Island, it’s got a village feel, replete with chippies and well-manicured lawns. At the same time, it sits in the shadows of one of the most magnificent and intact castles in the country.

The North East cleaned up at the top of the charts, with Tynemouth, Tyne and Wear coming second and scoring an impressive 82 per cent. Tynemouth scored five stars for its seafront/pier and food and drink, with one visitor praising its “wonderful fish and chips.” Another visitor praised the “magnificent” golden sand beaches.

While it may not be blessed with the same intensity of sunshine and lack of rain as other parts of the UK, Scotland also did well, claiming places in the top ten. St Andrews came third with a score of 81 percent and scored five stars for its beach, tourist attractions, scenery, and seafront/pier.

Crail, in Fife, scored the number five spot, thanks to its whitewashed walls, cobbled streets, and charming fishing harbor.

The highest scorer down south was the Essex seaside town of Frinton-on-Sea, which charmed visitors with its lovely seafront and the general peaceful vibe of the place. One visitor called it the “perfect place for those who just want a day at the seaside with no frills and no noise.”

On the other end of the spectrum, Bognor Regis was named as the UK’s worst. It’s the second year in a row that the West Sussex settlement has come in last. The Mirror’s money editor Levi Winchester grew up in the town and has seen it slowly fall apart over the years.

“I remember many happy summers playing down the beach in Bognor Regis. At low tide, you could see sand for miles, as the smell of fish and chips wafted through the air,” Levi recalled when asked for her thoughts on a town that once served as a home to George V for three months.

“The town was always buzzing with families enjoying their trip to Butlin’s—and while the seaside resort still attracts large crowds every year, the town itself has lost its heart. The promenade lacks love and is in need of a serious revamp.

“Even under the lights of the pier, it still just feels grey and miserable. Like many other UK high streets, the main town centre is empty now with hardly any shops left. I barely recognised it when I last visited.”

Having been thrust into the spotlight this week thanks to its somewhat absent MP Nigel Farage, Clacton-on-Sea found itself with a low score this year. It was judged to be the eighth worst. Despite low scores, including one star for peace and quiet and scenery, the classic seaside resort has the largest pier in Europe, and visitors praised its “excellent amusement facilities.”

In the survey, many popular seaside towns had middling scores. Despite their reputation as trendy destinations, Margate (53%) and Newquay (55%) received just one star for peace and quiet and two stars for value for money.

Visitors commented that Margate’s town centre was ‘run down’, but many praised its independent shops and famous Turner Gallery, while even Madonna has declared herself a fan of the seaside town. One visitor said: “Margate is quirky and not overly commercialised. It’s got some great events and places to eat and shop. It’s still a bit rough around the edges but it knows it.” Margate’s event space, Dreamland, is especially busy with summer events which may put people off going for a quiet break.

Popular surfing spot Newquay scored 55 per cent, receiving just one star for peace and quiet. The beach town is popular for stag and hen parties and young surfers. One visitor said it was “great for youngsters and surfers but not so good for older visitors”. Another said: “Newquay is a brash and overly busy seaside town. There are better beaches and towns nearby which are quieter.” Despite this, visitors praised the “wonderful beaches” in Newquay and they received four stars for this category.

Made famous by the TV sitcom Gavin & Stacey, Barry Island received a destination score of 54 per cent. One visitor said: “Unless you are a big Gavin and Stacey fan I’d give it a miss.” Visitors described the seafront as “a bit tacky”; however, the beach scored three stars, and one visitor said it is an “old-fashioned and lively seaside town, great beaches and interesting walks.”

TOP 30 SEASIDE TOWNS & VILLAGES

1. Bamburgh — 84%
2. Tynemouth — 82%
3. St Andrews — 81%
4. Aldeburgh — 80%
5. Crail — 80%
6. Frinton-on-Sea — 80%
7. Portmeirion — 80%
8. St Davids — 79%
9. Bude — 78%
10. Southwold — 78%
11. North Berwick — 77%
12. Plockton — 77%
13. St Ives — 77%
14. Swanage — 77%
15. Lyme Regis — 76%
16. Lytham St Annes — 76%
17. Portstewart — 76%
18. Conwy — 75%
19. Dornoch — 75%
20. Filey — 75%
21. Lynmouth — 75%
22. Sidmouth — 75%
23. St Mawes — 75%
24. Tenby — 75%
25. Tobermory — 75%
26. Wells-next-the-Sea — 75%
27. Whitley Bay — 75%
28. Broadstairs — 74%
29. Falmouth — 74%
30. Llandudno — 74%

BOTTOM 30 SEASIDE TOWNS & VILLAGES

1. Ilfracombe — 57%
2. Minehead — 57%
3. Bridlington — 56%
4. Cleethorpes — 56%
5. Fishguard — 56%
6. Seaton — 56%
7. Torquay — 56%
8. Abersoch — 55%
9. Colwyn Bay — 55%
10. Morecambe — 55%
11. Newquay — 55%
12. Barry Island — 54%
13. Skegness — 54%
14. Mablethorpe — 53%
15. Margate — 53%
16. Paignton — 53%
17. Southport — 53%
18. Herne Bay — 52%
19. Littlehampton — 51%
20. New Brighton — 51%
21. Weston-super-Mare — 50%
22. Burnham-on-Sea — 48%
23. Clacton-on-Sea — 48%
24. Southend-on-Sea — 47%
25. Bangor — 46%
26. Blackpool — 46%
27. Fleetwood — 46%
28. Great Yarmouth — 46%
29. Lowestoft — 46%
30. Bognor Regis — 41%

Results are based on an online survey conducted in January-February 2026 of 5,320 Which? Connect panel members who spoke about 11,999 experiences of visiting a UK seaside town for leisure purposes in the previous 12 months.

Travel experts at Time Out have ranked the best seaside towns to visit in the UK in 2026, and a town in Wales has taken the top spot

Wales is fast becoming one of the most sought-after staycation destinations for Brits this summer, with its long-overlooked coastal treasures finally getting the recognition they deserve.

As holidaymakers hunt for wallet-friendly breaks, the newly opened King Charles III Coastal Path has thrown open the entire UK shoreline to those keen to explore it on foot. With it comes a wave of enthusiastic walkers on the lookout for their next adventure, and it appears this Pembrokeshire town could be just the ticket.

Travel experts at Time Out have ranked what they believe, after scouring the length and breadth of the country, to be the finest UK seaside towns to visit in 2026. Topping the list is an underrated Welsh treasure, Saundersfoot in Pembrokeshire.

Pipping some of Britain’s most beloved coastal hotspots to the post — including Brighton, St Ives, and Folkestone — this charming seaside retreat is well and truly having its moment in the sun.

Nestled between the popular towns of Tenby and Amroth, Saundersfoot is loved for its sweeping beach and bustling harbour. Many visitors choose to tackle part of the Pembrokeshire Coast Path, which winds through these spots, and a straightforward 3.3-mile route with breathtaking views will bring you directly from Tenby.

Beach and harbour

As with any seaside town worth its salt, it’s the spectacular beaches that first lure people in — and everything else on offer that keeps them coming back. Saundersfoot is no different, boasting a standout stretch of shoreline that draws visitors from far and wide.

Saundersfoot Beach is the main expanse of sand, providing a level surface for families to relax and watersports enthusiasts to enjoy. TimeOut described it as “one of the most gorgeous beaches of any British seaside resort”, and its prime position near the town centre makes it even more appealing.

Its blue flag accreditation ensures a safe seaside experience for those bringing young children, and many visitors can be spotted walking their dogs along the water’s edge.

Describing Saundersfoot beach, one TripAdvisor user noted: “Lovely beach to walk on, very clean and close to the town with shops and cafes literally just a street over. It’s also very close to the harbour, so it’s nice to see the boats.”

Adding to the area’s charm is its historic harbour, originally constructed in 1829 to enable coal exports from local mines. It has since evolved into an ideal fusion of heritage and modernity with excellent amenities and activities, serving as the town’s focal point.

One review said: “On the way from Swansea to Tenby we made a short stopover at Saundersfoot Harbour. The small port is quite beautiful and worth seeing.”

Part of the harbour area features an array of eateries and drinking establishments where visitors can sit back and admire views of the peaceful coastline. Here, you can begin your morning at The Breakfast Clwb or enjoy lunch at Catch Beach Club, treat yourself to ice cream at Odley’s Gelato and sample traditional pasties at Pembrokeshire Pasty and Pie Co. From the harbour, visitors can book a variety of boat trips to explore the surrounding area, as well as hire equipment to go crabbing along the waterfront.

For those who prefer to stay put in Saundersfoot, the Welcome Centre and Coal Museum offer a fascinating insight into the town’s origins.

Free to visit, the centre shines a light on the lives of local mining families, the hardships they endured and the gruelling conditions that shaped miners’ working days. Along the way, you’ll uncover the pivotal role the harbour once played in the area’s rich coal mining history.

The East Sussex walk has been ranked among the world’s most beautiful hiking trails according to a new eye-tracking study – but be warned, it’s a strenuous 12-mile route that’ll take up to seven hours to complete

New research has revealed one of the world’s most breathtaking hikes can be found right here on our doorstep in the UK, rewarding walkers with unrivalled coastal views.

An eye-tracking study has identified the most stunning hiking trails across the globe, with running shoe retailer SportsShoes.com employing cutting-edge technology to monitor the eye movements of participants as they were shown some of the most iconic routes from around the world.

The findings assigned each location an ‘eye-catching’ score, establishing which trails were the most visually striking. As a result, the UK’s very own Seven Sisters Cliff Walk, nestled along the English coastline in East Sussex, made it into the top rankings.

It will come as little surprise to those who live nearby or have tackled the trail that it would be regarded as a top 10 hike, with its tranquil sands and azure waters framed by the most stunningly white cliff tops imaginable.

The Seven Sisters are so magnificent they have featured in some of Britain’s most beloved blockbuster films, including Atonement and Harry Potter. The iconic cliffs form a demanding route that can take anywhere between four to seven hours to complete, yet tourists appear to agree it is worth every single step.

The hike

Most walkers opt to begin the challenging trek in Seaford and finish in Eastbourne, allowing them to soak up the celebrated views of the Seven Sisters as they reach the summit. Across the 12-mile route, hikers can expect to conquer seven hills, some considerably steeper than others.

The ideal vantage point for capturing all seven cliffs in a single shot is at Hope Gap, though for the finest views from the clifftop, you’ll want to hold on until you reach the iconic Belle Tout and Beachy Head lighthouses.

Fortunately for walkers, there’s a charming little pit stop along the way where you can take a breather and enjoy a range of food and drinks at the Bearling Gap Cafe. Here you’ll also find a handy centre complete with toilet facilities, so you needn’t worry about being caught short during the journey.

Having tackled the walk themselves, one visitor wrote on Tripadvisor : “The cliffs are breathtaking from a distance, and the view from the edge, facing the open sea, is unforgettable. Heading down to the pebble beach gives you a completely different, striking perspective.”

According to the full findings, topping the list as the ultimate hike boasting the most jaw-dropping scenery is France’s Calanques de Marseille. Tucked within the Calanques National Park, nestled between Marseille and Cassis, the route is truly spectacular, featuring a stunning backdrop of white limestone cliffs plunging into turquoise coves, with a variety of trails to suit different timeframes and fitness levels.

The Top 10 list includes:

1. Calanques de Marseille, Marseille, France
2. Plitvice Lakes Trail, Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia
3. Lauterbrunnen Valley, Bernese Oberland, Switzerland
4. Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, Cusco, Peru
5. Bastei Rock Formation, Saxon Switzerland National Park, Germany
6. The Narrows, Zion National Park, USA
7. Étretat Cliff Walk, Étretat, France
8. The Loop, Kalbarri, Australia
9. Seven Sisters Cliffs Walk, East Sussex, England
10. Causeway Coast Way, County Antrim, Northern Ireland

One UK city narrowly missed out on the top ranking.

Summer is here, and whilst many people flock to the beach for their holidays there’s just as much joy in a city break. City breaks are buzzing with excitement, and there’s so much to explore – especially if the city is walkable. According to Time Out’s 2026 global survey, Seoul in South Korea has topped the list as the world’s most walkable city.

Despite it being a huge city, Seoul has excellent infrastructure for pedestrians with almost 3,000 kilometres of pavements, wide pedestrian walkways and efficient crosswalk systems. According to Time Out’s survey, 93% of Seoul residents rated its walkability as “good” or “amazing” – the highest in the survey.

The city has some truly amazing walking paths, including the Cheonggyecheon Stream. This is a 10 km restored urban stream lined with a well-maintained walking path that links multiple metro stations and major attractions, making it the perfect place to wander and explore the city.

One visitor described the walk as an “oasis in the city” on Tripadvisor.

They wrote: “You can walk along its banks, which are below the main street, watch the ducks in the water and relax. When you get tired, you can also eat at the cafes.”

Another person said: “A stroll along the stream starting at Gwanghwamun where the stream emerges is a must do activity in Seoul.

“It is particularly vibrant in the early evening when locals take their evening exercise or simply sit alongside the steam, perhaps reading a book or talking with friends accompanied by the sound of moving water. Located below street level, sounds of the city become quickly muted.”

There’s also Seoullo 7017, a 1,074-metre elevated park converted from a former highway, that you can wander above the city. The walkway is best at night when the city lights are on, according to visitors.

One person wrote on Tripadvisor: “A pleasant walk over the hustle of the city. Markets are sometimes held at the weekend. It has a nice view of Seoul station, especially if you want to watch the sunset over the city.

“It’s also nicely lit after dark. Usually, a few people walking about and taking photos, but it never feels too busy.“

Although Seoul took the top spot, another UK city was a very close second on the ranking.

The Scottish capital of Edinburgh was ranked as the second-most walkable city in the world, with the almost same percentage of people rating the city’s walkability as “good” or excellent.

Edinburgh lost the top spot by only 0.08 percentile points.

Despite its hills and cobbled, winding streets, a lot of tourists visit Edinburgh specifically for its walks. Famous walks like Arthur’s Seat or Carlton Hill are popular choices, but the city is equally as enjoyable to walk through and dip into the many pubs and cafes on every corner.