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YOU won’t need to travel far if you want to head to one of the best destinations in Europe this summer, as it is right here in the UK.

Sissinghurst Castle Gardens near Cranbrook in Kent, have been named the third best place to visit in Europe this year.

According to Travel + Leisure, Jim Strong, a member of Travel + Leisure’s Travel Advisory Board and president of Strong Travel Services said: “Kent is known as the ‘Garden of England,’ and Sissinghurst Castle Gardens do not disappoint.

“The lawns and terraced colors of wildflowers of the area are a treat to the soul.

“A stroll around the grounds is tranquil in any weather, but spring and summer are the highlights.”

Originally starting out as a prison for around 3,000 captured French sailors in the 1700s, Sissinghurst Castle Gardens is a great spot for a family day out.

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When visiting today, you’ll mostly see what has been left by Vita Sackville-West – a poet and writer – and her diplomat husband, Harold Nicolson.

According to The National Trust, when Vita first saw the house she said: “I fell in love; love at first sight.

“I saw what might be made of it.

“It was Sleeping Beauty’s Castle.”

Together they transformed the castle in the 1930s adding the garden ‘rooms’ – different, walled areas of the garden – and planting colourful flowers.

One major feature of the destination is the 80-step Tower, which boasts panoramic views of the surrounding estate.

It used to be Vita’s Writing Room where she crafted her novels and poetry, as well as her weekly gardening column that featured in The Observer.

Her novels included All Passion Spent (1931) and Thirty Clocks Strike the Hour (1932).

If you are visiting for a day, you’ll be able to explore the garden ‘rooms’, including the Rose Garden and the White Garden.

There is then a ‘No Dig’ garden with vegetables, fruits and herbs as well.

Another part of the garden is called Delos – it is named after the Greek island and was inspired by the couples’ numerous visits there.

Delos also boasts a number of Greek artefacts including a number of Hellenistic altars that came from the island.

Inside the castle itself, drop by The Big Room (the library), where Vita and Harold used to host events and entertain guests.

If you fancy a little bit of retail therapy and have green fingers yourself, there is a Plant Shop that sells seasonal vegetables and plants that have been grown on site.

Alternatively, head to the main shop which sells a range of items including local products, homeware items and books, including works by Vita and Harold.

If there aren’t enough books in the shop for you though, there is a second-hand bookshop as well.

After all your exploring, grab a bite to eat and something to drink at The Old Dairy Cafe, where you can sit either inside or outside.

At The Granary restaurant, you can grab a bigger meal if you like as well as lunch boxes ideal for kids.

The destination is dog-friendly as well and has two walks you can head off on, which is a great way to see the estate.

For those who want an easier walk, there is a one-mile route but for those who want to enjoy a bit more time in nature there is a three-mile route as well.

Sissinghurst Castle Garden costs from £20 per adult and £10 per child to visit.

If you want to enjoy more time in the gardens, then you can opt to stay at the edge of the gardens in the Priest’s House.

The small brick house is thought to be part of the Elizabethan mansion that made up Sissinghurst Castle, but has been completely renovated inside to make it into a three-bedroom house with cosy fireplaces and wooden beams.

The cheapest Sun Travel could find is for three nights in January 2027, costing £779 (around £43.28 per person per night based on six people staying).

Alternatively, you could stay at Sissinghurst Castle Farmhouse which has nine bedrooms on a bed and breakfast basis.

Rooms cost from £235 per night.

Last year, The Telegraph also named the village of Sissinghurst – which is just down the road from the castle – one of the prettiest villages in Kent.

The Telegraph commented that the village boasts “whitewashed, old brick and clapboard houses with a post office, a pub, a church and a village chippy”.

While there isn’t much to do in the village, you could grab some lunch from The Village Chippy such as cod and chips for £9.60.

One recent visitor said: “Stopped by for their seafood platter and oh goodness was it delicious.

“Food quality is excellent and the batter was so good and the chips were delicious – everything was cooked fresh while we waited.

“Highly recommend anyone to go there fantastic food.”

You can also grab a pint from The Milk House, which was the former coaching inn.

Dogs are welcome and there is also a garden area and terrace.

For more villages to explore in the UK, here are the quaint British villages with toy-town cottages, car-free roads and cosy pubs – handpicked by our travel writers.

Plus, here are five pretty English villages that will make you feel like you’re in The Holiday with cosy pubs and cottages.

Fowey, Cornwall

“Fowey is frequently overlooked for the busier and more famous Padstow, but therein lies its charm.

“Crowd free, but with all the magic of a sleepy, typically Cornish town, – great cafes whipping up homebaked treats, locals sharing weekend gossip in the quirky bookstore and, most importantly, those glorious harbour views.

“Pick up a coffee and freshly prepped sarnie from Olive Branch Cafe – the oozing eggo mayo and crispy onion one is a crowd pleaser – then wander to Fowey Old Grammar School Garden for a picnic-style lunch among the flowers and overlooking the bobbing sailboats.

“For a sitdown meal that you’ll be dreaming of for years to come, North Street Kitchen at the opposite end of the town is where to head.” – Sophie Swietochowski, Assistant Travel Editor

Witney, Cotswolds

“The Cotswolds is always a busy place during bank holidays, but my hometown of Witney is one where you can avoid the crowds but enjoy the beautiful buildings its known for.

“There is the amazing Huffkins and Hunters Cake Company for a cuppa and a slice of cake, or hop in the queue at Sandwich de Witney for hugely overfilled baguettes.

“Kids will love Cogges Manor Farm where they can feed some of the animals, or you can practise your mug painting at The Pottery Place in town.

“Want to stay longer? I recommend the Blue Boar Inn as a cosy place to stay, or splash out on Estelle Manor just out of town – named one of the best hotels in the world.” – Kara Godfrey, Deputy Travel Editor

Chester, Cheshire

“This historic Cheshire town is perfect for a Bank Holiday trip – with an intoxicating mix of beautiful architecture, history and great food and drink.

“Head to The Rows for shopping that dates back 700 years with the medieval timbered, double level shopping galleries hosting a range of brands.

“Shopaholics can get their beauty fixes at the new Harrods H beauty hall that opened in the town last month – the first outpost of the posh brand outside of London.

“Or stroll along the two miles of city walls, the most complete Roman and medieval walls in Britain that offer a unique perspective of the town.

“A new Ivy Brasserie opens its doors this April and for street food from around the globe, head to the New Chester Market.” – Lisa Minot, Head of Travel

Weston-Super-Mare, North Somerset

“When you think of Weston-Super-Mare in Somerset you probably picture the Grand Pier, and that’s with good reason.

“The famous attraction is a great day out and doesn’t have to cost much either. You can swap a couple of quid for pennies and get competitive with your family on the slot machines.

“If you do want a bit more of an adrenaline rush though, the pier does have other attractions including a 300-metre indoor Glo Kart track, House of Horross and a freefall ride.

“After a fun day on the pier, make sure to walk along the two-mile beach and grab an ice cream.” – Cyann Fielding, Travel Reporter

Welwyn Garden City, Hertfordshire

“Sometimes I like a lazy day in my homecounty over a Bank Holiday weekend, and being in Hertfordshire, Welwyn Garden City is a lovely spot for a daytrip.

“While it might be lacking in the shop department, apart from its fab John Lewis store, it certainly is thriving when it comes to cafes and restaurants along Howardsgate like Megan’s to Welwyn Coffee Lab, Postino Lounge and the Two Willows.

“One of my favourite spots is slightly out of the town. Called Tewingbury Farm, it’s primarily a hotel and wedding venue, but visitors are welcome to pop in anytime.

“I particularly rate the oven-fired pizzas which you can tuck into at the Courtyard which has outdoor fires, and games like pool and table tennis.

“In classic Easter fashion, it’s lovely to then take a stroll around the ground and farm where you’ll spot plenty of cows and pigs.” – Alice Penwill, Travel Reporter

Sheringham, Norfolk

“This sprawling Victorian seaside town is a hit with families visiting the North Norfolk coast, and it’s clear to see why.

“Entire days can easily be spent on golden stretches of sand backed by beach huts, with bucket and spade in hand.

“But it’s worth pulling yourself away from the shores for a ride on the heritage steam railway, where the pretty Poppy Line runs from Sheringham to Holt.

“There’s even an Easter Eggspress egg hunt taking place onboard, costing £26 per adult and £18.20 per child with unlimited rides all day.

“Plus theatre fans will love a visit to Sheringham Little Theatre, where family-friendly productions, quiz and bingo nights fill the historic theatre with a lively buzz.

“Stroll along to Stevenson’s Fish and Chips to grab a takeaway tea and catch the sunset, and you’ve done a visit to this seaside town right.” – Jenna Stevens, Travel Reporter

THE crowd gasps. Arched backwards in a dramatic display, a woman has just breathed fire across the audience.

She continues dancing, swinging flaming sticks against the inky night while a flatcap-wearing crowd looks on, transfixed.

I’ve arrived at Black Country Living Museum in Dudley, near Birmingham, which was crowned the best large visitor attraction in England last year.

There for a special Peaky Blinders night, I enter a replica village featuring streets any fan will recognise – as this is a filming location for the hit series.

The show’s creator, Steven Knight, has gone as far as describing the museum as “home”.

The event costs £21 and instructions are enticingly vague: “Arrive in 1920s attire and expect mayhem.”

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Judging by the fire dancers at the entrance, I’m in for one hell of a night.

Wobbling across the cobbles in heels, I’m wrapped warmly in a thick trenchcoat. If someone had told me I’d accidentally wandered back in time to the actual 1920s, I could have believed them.

Visitors drift between functional stores, from a post office to a barber shop, where one teen exchanged £15 for a Shelby-inspired undercut while their girlfriend laughed from the sidelines.

At the bottom, past a WWI memorial, sits a ruckus of flashing gold fairground rides.

It is so authentic, the only indication that I’m standing on a film set and not a real street corner is the vintage signage and outfits.

I’m jolted to attention by a 1920s car rumbling towards me, open-topped and overflowing with cackling passengers.

“I swear that was Ada,” someone remarks, in a nod to Arthur Shelby’s daughter in the show.

In dim lighting, strangers do have a habit of morphing into familiar faces.

Down a flight of steps sits Canal Street Bridge, a secret meeting place for Ada and Freddie. From there, I can see queues forming for the village pubs, as jaunty piano tunes drift from their doorways.

Having snagged a £4.50 bottle of Cobra, my attention is drawn towards two storefronts: a bakery and a traditional sweet shop. For £10, I secure a bag of lemon sherbets, lemon bonbons and cinder toffee.

Clutching my treats, I teeter down the steps of Canal Street Bridge to enter Charlie’s Yard. This sits on the banks of a canal, where Charlie Strong smuggles illicit goods for the Shelbys.

“Welcome to 1910,” a chainmaker yells, wielding a hammer over a glowing link.

This event is strictly 16+ , and judging by the three street brawls I’ve witnessed already, that’s probably for the best. All incidents involved actors and the colourful language sparked waves of giggles.

My final hurrah is horse racing at St James’ School.

Shuttled into wooden rows, the atmosphere is electric and, after picking their horses, everybody is on the edge of their seats.

Celebrating the flutter with a portion of fish and chips “to go”, it’s time for the steady walk to the exit. By 10.30pm, it feels like I’ve just scratched the surface.

Straddling 29 acres, the site has events exploding on a spitfire schedule. Catching it all seems impossible.

Ticket included, I’ve spent around £50, so this evening has been a steal.

Like Cillian Murphy, I’m leaving with a “great fondness” for the Black Country Living Museum.

The Shelby legacy is alive and well.

The Portuguese coach takes charge after the sacking of Otto Addo, and will lead the Black Stars at the FIFA World Cup.

Ghana ‌‌have appointed Carlos Queiroz as the head ⁠⁠coach of their men’s national team, less than two months before the World Cup.

The Portuguese will take the reins of Ghana’s tournament preparations immediately, the ⁠⁠country’s football association said on Monday.

“The Executive Council of the Ghana Football Association, working with all key stakeholders, has appointed Carlos Queiroz as head coach ⁠⁠of the senior national team, ⁠⁠the Black Stars,” the GFA said in a statement.

Queiroz, 73, left his role as Oman coach last month ⁠⁠after the side failed to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, but will make his fifth consecutive appearance as coach at the World Cup with the Black Stars.

Ghana were left without a coach 72 days before the World Cup kickoff, ‌after parting company with Otto Addo following friendly defeats by Austria and Germany in March.

Queiroz led Portugal to the round of 16 at the 2010 ⁠⁠World Cup and later coached Iran at the last three ⁠⁠editions of the tournament, ⁠⁠recording three wins in 13 matches.

Born in Mozambique, the former goalkeeper has also held coaching positions with Egypt, Japan, ‌‌Colombia, and South Africa, and previously led Portugal in the early 1990s.

“This is not just another job – it is a mission,” Queiroz said in a statement. “And I am ready to give everything of my experience and knowledge once again, in service of the game and the happiness of people.”

Queiroz was chosen from more than 600 local and foreign applications because of his extensive World Cup experience.

Ghana have been ‌‌drawn ‌‌in Group L alongside Croatia, England and Panama.

The Black Stars also have warmups against Mexico on May 22 and Wales on June 2.

IF you’re looking for a top notch, classic campsite with no-frills – The Spinney Wild Camping has just been named the best.

The campsite in East Yorkshire has scooped up a Gold Award with 10/10 reviews from families calling it a “wonderful hidden gem”.

Pitch Up, an online booking platform specialising in camping, glamping and caravan sites has found the best in the country.

Based solely on reviews and ratings, The Spinney Wild Camping has been named Pitch Up’s best campsite in Britain.

The site got 10/10 ratings from all 58 of its reviews and was described as being “no-frill and wild”.

It’s affordable too with prices starting from £12.50pppn.

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The spot in East Yorkshire is small with space for just 10 tents, and campers can pitch tents in either the woodland or the meadow.

It has plenty of open space for children and dogs to run about and play as well as hammocks to laze about in.

It is also completely off grid with no outdoor lighting, so visitors are advised to bring a torch for when it gets dark.

For when the weather doesn’t play ball, the campsite has a garden room with a sofa and games for entertainment.

There’s also a hot tub that guests can hire out and firepits for barbecuing.

It’s quite simple when it comes to facilities and has a compost toilet – but the site does have running water.

The campsite achieved a clean sweep of full marks for location, value for money, accommodation, facilities, customer service, child friendliness, cleanliness and WiFi.

One visitor called it a “wonderful hidden gem”, a second called it “idyllic”.

Another said: “As a single mum with two children I felt very safe here, the choice of where to pitch was just brilliant. We chose a hidden spot waking up with the beautiful oak trees.”

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Park Holidays UK Sand le Mere, Yorkshire

This holiday park in Yorkshire is a thriving family resort, just steps from Tunstall Beach. Entertainment is what this resort does best, with costume character performances, Link-up Bingo and cabaret shows. Accommodation ranges from fully-equipped Gold Caravans to Platinum Lodges with sun decks and luxury bedding.

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St Ives Bay Beach Resort, Cornwall

This beachfront resort in St Ives, Cornwall is a true beach bum’s paradise – whether you want to laze out on the sand, or take to the waves for some surfing. Activities include disc golf, a Nerf challenge and an outdoor cinema, as well as indoor activities for the colder months like karaoke, bingo and DJ sets.

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Billing Aquadrome Holiday Park, Northampton

This holiday park has loads of unique activities on offer, including TikTok dance classes, alpaca feeding, a pump track for BMX riding, and taking a ride on the resort’s very own miniature railway. Throw in bug hotel and den building, pond dipping, survival skills workshops and a lake for paddleboard and pedalo hire, and you’ve got yourself an action-packed park.

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Parkdean Resorts Camber Sands, Sussex
This beachfront resort is a classic family favourite. If you’re not up to swimming in the sea, there’s four fantastic pools here, as well as water flumes, underwater jets, inflatable jet skis and kayak races. Plus if you’ve got any little fans of Paw Patrol or Milkshake!, you’ll be glad to know there’s Milkshake! Mornings and Paw Patrol Mighty Missions to keep your tots entertained.

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The campsite is the perfect spot for anyone wanting to explore the city of York without forking out a lot on an expensive hotel.

In the car, it is just a half-an-hour drive from Spinney Wild Camping to York which is home to higgledy-piggledy streets and plenty of family attractions.

It was even called the “best UK city for families” by travel guide creator Peter Naldrett, who visited all 76 cities in the UK.

Talking to Sun Travel, he said: “There’s enough in York to keep both junior and secondary school children entertained, from the Viking Museum to York Chocolate Story and Harry Potter-style streets and a cold war bunker.

“The Viking Museum has interactive activities for children, the Castle Museum has recreated Victorian Streets and there’s also the Shambles, the inspiration behind JK Rowling‘s Diagon Alley.”

Other nearby attractions to the campsite are in the village of Allerthorpe where visitors can go on a relaxing stroll, or try out watersports at Lakeland Park.

Lakeland Park has three lakes for kayaking, paddleboarding, open water swimming, and even jumping about on the inflatable Aqua Park.

For more on campsites, here are affordable ones with some of the UK’s best views – and pitches from just £11.

And check out this treehouse campsite with rooms you get to by zipline – and breakfast is delivered by rope pulley.

A EUROPEAN theme park less than two hours from the UK has been named the best in the world.

Liseberg in Gothenburg, Sweden is home to Europe‘s longest dive coaster and highest free-fall ride – and will soon be getting a new waterpark.

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Named the top theme park by Blooloop, Liseberg has over 40 rides and attractions which include the new £87million Oceana waterpark.

Following a fire in 2024, plans for the waterpark were revised and now the attraction is expected to open either this year or next year.

The Oceana waterpark will feature 6,000-square-metre of indoor pools and 4,000-square-metres of outdoor water attractions.

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There will be 19 water slides, a 244-metre “dynamic river” and water go-karts.

There will also be an indoor and outdoor bathing area.

The new attraction will be able to host up to 1,750 guests at any one time, across both the indoor and outdoor areas.

A café, a shop and a restaurant will be on-site as well.

Last year, the theme park revealed a new family attraction called Stormvåg (Storm Wave) which will open this summer.

The new Stormvåg (Storm Wave) ride will be a family swing ride, with a boatyard theme.

Liseberg can be found on a forested hillside and has a number of different areas including Rabbit Land which is dedicated to the park’s green rabbit mascots and features gentle rides for little kids.

The park has a number of different areas including Luna Park which is a retro space themed area and another area is themed around Nordic mythology.

Thrill rides include a wooden rollercoaster called Balder and a launch rollercoaster called Helix.

Unlike other theme parks in Europe, visitors have to navigate around the theme park using escalators due to its hillside location.

Tickets to the park cost £29.30 per person, and that includes unlimited goes on the rides.

For those wanting to extend their time at the park, there is a hotel as well – The Grand Curiosa Hotel.

The hotel can be found at the park’s entrance and boasts 457 rooms.

Inside, there is an 18th century whimsical and ‘curiosity’ theme with a slide in the lobby and even a carousel in the restaurant.

Each floor has its own theme ranging from the ocean to mythical creatures and is meant to reflect the curiosity of explorers from the 18th century.

There is also a cinema room in the hotel, as well as playrooms.

Rooms at the hotel cost from £107.97 per night.

The easiest way to get to Liseberg is by flying to Gothenburg, which takes just under two hours and costs as little as £13 per way for a one-way flight in April from either London or Edinburgh.

Then from the airport it is about 20 minutes on public transport to the park, or if you are travelling to the park from central Gothenburg it takes only 10 minutes via public transport.

You can even stay at The Grand Curiosa Hotel without going to the theme park, so it makes the ideal base for exploring the city of Gothenburg as well.

In other attraction news, the UK’s best theme park’s £12million Viking-themed land to open next month.

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The Cotswolds are home to picture-postcard towns and villages bursting with character, yet there’s one that stands out from them all with its famous street and prestigious title

A beautiful Cotswolds village has earned worldwide attention, thanks to its fairytale charm and famous cottages.

With honey-hued architecture, sweeping countryside hills and storybook villages, the Cotswolds undeniably boast some of the most breathtaking scenery in the nation. So much so that many of its settlements have been graced with their very own prestigious accolades, thanks to their quintessentially English charm.

There’s the Gloucestershire village of Bourton-on-the-Water with its low, stone bridges that has been dubbed the ‘Venice of the Cotswolds’, the pretty Worcestershire village of Broadway, known as the ‘Jewel of the Cotswolds’, and the historic West Oxfordshire town of Burford, notably referred to as the ‘Gateway to the Cotswolds’. Yet among these gems is a village that has frequently been hailed as the most beautiful not only in the Cotswolds but in the world.

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Nestled in Gloucestershire and in the heart of the Cotswolds, is the picturesque village of Bibury. It’s characterised by its ancient honey-coloured stone architecture, winding River Coln and the Rack Isle water meadow, and is conveniently positioned just a short drive from the ‘Capital of the Cotswolds’, Cirencester.

Bibury has garnered worldwide attention, being named the most beautiful village in the world by Forbes in September last year, and previously called one of the world’s most picturesque villages. English textile designer and poet, William Morris, also described Bibury as ‘the most beautiful village in England’.

While it’s one of the smaller places to visit in the Cotswolds, it attracts thousands of visitors each year and is home to Arlington Row, one of the most photographed streets. The quaint line of Arlington Row cottages was built in the 14th century as a monastic wool store and converted into weavers’ cottages during the 17th century.

Today, they are home to private residences, but Arlington Row remains Bibury’s most popular attraction and the most photographed place across the Cotswolds. Yet, some houses here have been known to bear a polite sign that reads, ‘No photos please’, as the area tends to get overrun with tourists.

But that doesn’t detract from its undeniable beauty, with the scenic River Coln flowing nearby, alongside pristine green spaces, streams and charming establishments. Over the bridge and directly opposite Arlington Row, is Eleven Bibury, offering a chic café, gallery shop and terraced garden.

Another tourist attraction in the village is Bibury Trout Farm, where visitors can take in the scenic setting before enjoying fishing, crazy golf or a refreshment from the café, or a sweet treat from Kelly’s Ice cream. There’s also The Twig café in the same area, the perfect coffee and cake stop, before wandering around the paths and walking routes that surround Bibury.

For accommodation in Bibury, there’s the holiday rental, Sackville House, The Bothy and Sundial Cottage, or the four-star, The Swan Hotel. While there’s not much to do in the village, its picture-perfect setting, tranquil river walks, and serene green space against its stone cottages are enough to warrant a visit.

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

Even if you don’t want to commit to island-life fulltime, it’s perfect for a weekend away

Picture your dream place to live. You may have conjured up images of an island with sandy beaches, clear waters and palm trees swaying in the breeze. If so, there is a slice of this island life closer to home than you might think (minus the palm trees).

Anglesey is the seventh largest island in the British Isles, covering an area of around 275 square miles. It’s known for its amazing beaches, which range from picturesque coves to vast sandy stretches. The island and many of its locations are frequently at the top of best-of travel lists and guides. Earlier this year, Time Out named Anglesey one of the best places to visit in the UK in 2026 and last year it was named the UK’s ‘best island’ by The Telegraph. Most recently, it was named one of the best places to live in the UK in 2026 by The Sunday Times, which described it as “a landscape of rolling greenery set against the cinematic, jagged backdrop of Snowdonia and the Llyn Peninsula”.

It goes on to mention that the town of Menai Bridge is home to the island’s best shops and restaurants with views that are a “delight”, while Beaumaris is the island’s “artistic anchor”. And it adds: “Aberffraw, Benllech and Trearddur Bay are lively seaside villages, and there’s wildness and warm community spirit to be found in more remote corners of the island.”

The Sunday Times guide is designed to showcase places to live and highlights the average house price on the island is £270,500 but for those who just fancy a taste of island life, then a holiday in Anglesey — or even a day or weekend trip — does the job. And the aforementioned Menai Bridge is a great place to stay if you fancy the hustle and bustle of town life.

In fact, this year the Menai Suspension Bridge celebrates its 200th anniversary so there’s no better time to visit. Designed by Thomas Telford, the bridge reaches 1,265ft long with a central span of 579ft and is an impressive sight to behold.

In Beaumaris you’ll find pastel-coloured buildings and the impressive Beaumaris Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built by Edward I with his architect James of St George, it followed on from the castles of Conwy, Caernarfon and Harlech. The fortress was huge with near-perfect symmetry but a lack of money and trouble in Scotland meant the castle was abandoned. But its magnificent walls still stand.

Anglesey’s beaches are a must for any visitor. In fact, given the coastline stretches for 125 miles, it’s pretty hard to avoid them. Close to the village of Aberffraw in the south west, you’ll find Traeth Mawr, a vast sandy beach backed by powdery dunes with gorgeous views over the mainland.

The beach connects to the Anglesey Coastal Path, a long distance coastal path which, as you’ve guessed, follows much of the island’s coastline. It takes around 12 days to complete, but obviously you can select shorter sections to do.

Of course, The Sunday Times does shine a light on one of Anglesey’s most scenic locations: Newborough Beach and the tidal Llanddwyn Island with its rolling sand dunes and rock outcrops. This “stunning spot” is a place steeped in legend and home to the remains of St Dwynwen’s Church, named after the Welsh patron saint of lovers, who fled to the island after she was forbidden to marry the man she loved.

Newborough Forest is a spectacular site in itself with towering corian pines growing beside the sand dunes of Newborough Warren. It’s also the perfect spot to see red squirrels, after they were introduced in 2004.

The island town is known for its vibrant town centre, long history and stunning waterside setting nestled between the two sides of a glistening freshwater lake

“It’s a heavenly place to live,” says Barry Flanagan as we bob along on the sparkling water.

Barry is a water taxi tour guide in Enskillen, where he spends his days enthusing about the town. He combines his unique talent for talking, honed during ten years on local radio, with boating skills learned on the waterways of his hometown.

“Enniskillen is Ireland’s only island town. It is completely surrounded by water. We’re so lucky we live here,” he adds in a borderlands brogue.

If you’re from the centre of Ireland, then you’ll have heard of the town of 14,000. Enniskillen is known for its vibrant town centre, long history and stunning waterside setting nestled between Upper and Lower Lough Erne in County Fermanagh.

Yet despite all these winning features, Enniskillen is little enough known that it was recently voted Ireland’s most underrated town.

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

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And, as I discovered, underrated it certainly is.

The first place to start when discovering its delights is on the water. Lough Erne is the third largest freshwater lake in the UK and stretches across the south-western border. There is a brightness and cleanliness about the place. Flooded drumlin landscape stretches away from the loch past reedswamps, islets, and devilish-looking cormorants drying their wings in the sunshine.

With the water taxis chugging by, it’s easy to mistake its waterways for rural Netherlands or the Croatian delta of Vid. At least, in the brief moments when sleet showers are replaced by sunshine.

It’s also got a lot of history.

A short boat ride out of town takes you to Devenish Island. “There are 254 islands on Lough Erne, and Devenish Island is the jewel. It is a 6th-century monastic sight,” Barry explains.

Henry VIII’s dissolution of the monasteries cleared Devenish of its once bustling 1,000-person population, but the remains of the buildings have stayed, including a perfectly preserved tower.

Rising up on a nearby hill is the imposing Enneskillen Royal Grammar School, where Oscar Wilde and Samuel Beckett were pupils at a similar time as two truanting young lads who managed to blow up the nearby 1613 Portora Castle using explosive skills honed in the chemistry lab.

Made of sturdier stuff is the 600-year-old Enskillen Castle. Guarding one of the few passes into Ulster, it has remained strategically important since the charmingly named Hugh the Hospitable swung open its drawbridge.

The British took it over in the 17th century, turning it into a plantation stronghold for English and Scottish settler ‘undertakers’ tasked with controlling confiscated Gaelic land.

Despite such dicey moves, it remains remarkably intact today and serves as an enjoyable low-key museum.

“Fermanagh is a small county, but it packs a huge punch,” Barry enthuses as our tour comes to a close with a quick sail past Erne Water Taxi’s newest vessel, a completely solar-powered party boat.

“Would you believe in Fermanagh we have 14 plantation castles, three National Trust properties, a geopark that runs across the border, the Stairway to Heaven, and the Marble Arch Caves. It’s a heavenly place to live and we’re so lucky we live here.”

Any local who has spent an evening in Blakes of the Hollow will certainly agree. The Victorian pub is one of the most famous in Ireland and was packed to the rafters when I visited. The vibe inside is excellent and oiled by £5 pints of Guinness and live music on the weekends.

Wander several flights down from the pub, and you’ll get to 28 at the Hollow, an award-winning restaurant run by husband and wife team, Glen Wheeler and Zara McHugh. The food and service is as exceptional as I had expected, given no fewer than three people at my hotel had suggested I check it out.

The hotel in question is the Lough Erne Resort, a curious place that’s part 5* hotel, part timeshare estate made up of crenelated mansions that run along the lakefront. OAP bellboys greet you at the door as you walk into the grand foyer, where wood fires crackle in the grates. The rooms are enormous and comfortable, designed as they are for golfers to relax after a hard day’s thwacking on the 36-hole course.

Once you’re up and at them the next day, a coffee and a croissant at FOLK will fuel you up enough for a proper rummage at Lougherne Vintage.

Sitting in the quaint Butter Market part of town, the shop is packed full of goodies plundered by Katie Murphy and her husband from bootfairs across Europe. Unlike most vintage shop proprietors, Katie does not get her goods from eBay and Vintage, instead putting in the hard yards early on Sunday mornings. The result is a shop brimming with genuine treasures, including a Vivienne Westwood dress for a very reasonable price.

Like Enniskillen as a whole, drop by and you’re sure to unearth a hidden gem or two.

Book it

Rooms at Lough Erne Resort cost from £131.

Inneskillen is a two-hour bus ride from Belfast, costing £36.

A low-key and cosy eatery in a market town has been crowned Best Pasta Restaurant at the Italian Awards 2026, putting the Derbyshire hidden gem on the culinary map

Italian cuisine is always a firm favourite when it comes to dining out but what you might not realise is that some of the finest examples can be found right on your doorstep.

In what has essentially become the Oscars of the Italian hospitality world, the Italian Awards 2026 took place recently, celebrating the very best pizza, pasta, restaurants and cafés across the UK.

And in a fiercely competitive category, the winner of Best Pasta Restaurant turned out to be a hidden gem nestled in New Mills, High Peak, Derbyshire.

A Tavola Gastronomia Siciliana, the authentic Italian eatery, claimed the coveted prize – and will no doubt see a wave of curious food lovers descend upon them as a result.

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Led by award-winning chef Alessio Muccio, the restaurant takes great pride in producing fresh pasta, gelato and pastries on the premises, using traditional Sicilian ingredients.

Their website states: “Our restaurant is small and cosy and adorned with Sicilian artefacts; it’s a little slice of Sicily here in the High Peak.”

One delighted customer left a glowing review on TripAdvisor, saying: “A Tavola is a colourful, warm, and welcoming trattoria located in the dark, cold, wintery heart of the Peak District.

“Highly recommended for those longing for those rich Sicilian flavours but far from the light and abundance of the Bel Paese. Sicilian sweet and sour flavours are present in many dishes, from pistachio and fennel to sardines with pine nuts and raisins.”

Another reviewer said: “What a wonderful restaurant! A lucky find as we were looking for somewhere to eat before going to hear some live music nearby. Very friendly staff, delicious food and a convivial ambience.

“I only wish it were not over 100 miles from my home. I highly recommend a visit, especially if you are missing being in Italy! You will be transported!”

The Derbyshire eatery bills itself as a ‘labour of love’ from the chef, who has crafted a menu designed to accommodate all dietary needs. What’s more, his specials change with the seasons to guarantee fresh and seasonal ingredients year-round.

These touches haven’t gone unnoticed by diners, with one writing: “Absolutely fantastic food and service. From start to finish totally delicious. Thanks so much. Can’t wait to go back. 5 stars!”

It’s an unexpected location to discover authentic, mouthwatering Italian pasta, nestled in a market town, but it’s definitely worth stopping by while exploring the Peak District.

The restaurant sits on Albion Road, New Mills, High Peak, roughly eight miles south-east of Stockport and just 13 miles from Manchester.

While it might seem somewhat off the beaten track, it wasn’t quite concealed enough to escape the notice of the Italian Awards, which bestowed upon it the recognition its patrons believe it richly deserves.

Awards Director Warren Paul, discussing the launch of the Italian Awards for 2026, expressed his delight in celebrating the efforts of “passionate people”. He added: “That’s why we do what we do.

“It’s to make sure the hard-working inspirational people and businesses get the recognition they deserve.

“Everyone jumps to criticise and leave a negative review or complaint over the tiniest thing, but very few rush to praise good service, food and experiences. That’s where we come in. So congratulations to our winners.”

Highly Recommended restaurants in the same category included:

• Italian Touch By Ivano Pizzeria & Ristorante (Bedford)
• Mele e Pere (London)
• Primavista (Bury St Edmunds)
• Shambles Restaurant & Winebar (Teddington)
• The Kettlebridge Inn, Bar & Italian Restaurant (Cupar)
• A Tavola Gastronomia Siciliana (New Mills)

This European city has been crowned the world’s best destination for food lovers

One European city has been crowned the ultimate travel destination for food lovers. A new study by Titan Travel examined cooking class availability, ratings, pricing, and worldwide search demand, concluding that the Italian city of Florence reigns supreme for gastronomically-inspired getaways.

Florence wasn’t the only Italian gem to feature on the list either, with Italy dominating all three top spots: Palermo claiming second place and Bologna taking third. Rome then tied for fourth alongside Portuguese capital Lisbon, with Venice, Brussels and Barcelona all sharing fifth place.

Researchers discovered that Florence boasts a staggering 213,300 culinary experiences, encompassing 231 cooking classes, 74.5% of which hold a four-star rating or above.

And depending on when you book, Skyscanner has flights to Florence starting from just £31.

Weighing in on the growing trend of food tourism, and how it has become an increasingly significant factor for holidaymakers when planning their trips, Cassie Stickland, Product Manager at Titan Travel, said: “Today, travellers want to do more than just see the sights.

“They want to really experience a destination. Food is such a fantastic way to do that, because it connects you directly to local life and tradition. Taking a cooking class abroad allows you to do something, learn something, and return with a valuable skill.

“When planning your 2026 travels, look for tours that include a hands-on cooking experience. The best ones start with a market visit to get ingredients and end with you sitting down to enjoy what you’ve created.

“The most rewarding experiences tend to come from local chefs and family-run kitchens, where you’ll not only learn recipes but hear the stories behind them.”

World’s best cities for food

1. Florence, Italy

2. Palermo, Italy

3. Bologna, Italy

4. Lisbon, Portugal and Rome, Italy

5. Brussels, Belgium, Barcelona, Spain, and Venice, Italy

6. Osaka, Japan

7. Hue, Vietnam

One city has been crowned Europe’s chocolate capital in a new study analysing chocolate culture across the continent

When you think of chocolate, your mind might wander to the Belgian capital of Brussels, or perhaps the Swiss Alps, yet neither has claimed the top spot on Europe’s list of “chocolate capitals”. Instead, that coveted title belongs to the Italian city of Turin.

Ahead of the bustling summer tourist season, Avis examined European cities for their chocolate culture, taking into account the number of chocolatiers and shops listed on Yelp, chocolate-related attractions such as museums and factory tours, and consumer ratings.

Their research placed Turin firmly at the top, closely followed by Perugia, also in Italy, with Austria’s Salzburg taking third place.

Two British cities also featured on the list, with one securing fourth place and London coming in eighth.

Turin boasts 233 chocolatiers and five chocolate attractions; regarded as Europe’s historic chocolate capital since 1585, the city is the birthplace of gianduja and bicerin – iconic hazelnut-chocolate specialities.

There’s also the Pfatisch Chocolate Museum and factory tours from renowned brands such as Caffarel.

The city’s annual CioccolaTò festival further solidifies its standing as a must-visit destination for immersive chocolate experiences.

Taking to TripAdvisor, one recent visitor to the Pfatisch Chocolate Museum wrote: “Beautiful audio guided tour, interactive for families. The children had a great time with the interactive games.

“Very cosy and realistic environment recreated for the tour. Exhaustive on the subject. It involved all the senses.

“Small taste of the three chocolates (dark, milk, white) and finally the king Gianduiotto.”

Meanwhile, another visitor who enjoyed a trip to the Pfatish Museum remarked: “This place looks it belongs on a movie set. Everything looks so good and so perfect. Even if you don’t buy anything here, it is well worth a visit.”

Top 10 unexpected “chocolate capitals” of Europe

1. Turin, Italy
2. Perugia, Italy
3. Salzburg, Austria
4. York, UK
5. Antwerp, Belgium
6. Strasbourg, France
7. Krakow, Poland
8. London, UK
9. Amsterdam, Netherlands
10. Prague, Czechia

A QUAINT English village that feels “like stepping into a postcard” has been named among the most beautiful in the world.

With no new houses since the 1600s, Castle Combe at the southern edge of the Cotswolds is already one of the most stunning in the UK.

And now the southwest Wiltshire village has been named by Conde Nast Traveller as one of the most beautiful small towns in the world, and out of 53 destinations on the list, was the only UK spot to feature.

Conde Nast Traveller stated: “[T]he town is a well-preserved stretch of Cotswold stone cottages and old pubs and churches.”

The village has even played a star role as a set in some films, including Stardust, Steven Spielberg‘s War Horse and the original Dr Doolittle film.

One of the best ways to experience the village is to set off on a walk.

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Key points to stop by include Water Lane, where you can see a good example of the local architecture using Cotswolds stone.

One recent visitor even said it was “like stepping into a postcard”.

In the centre of the town, drop by The Market Cross – a four-column stone structure that used to act as the focal point for the village’s weekly wool markets.

Perhaps the most popular spot in town with tourists is the historic stone bridge that crosses the River Bybrook.

The bridge is Grade II listed and can be found in the lower village.

If you fancy something sweet but don’t want to sit inside, then visit Ellen’s Cottage where you will find a small cake stand in front of a charming brown cottage door.

Visitors can help themselves to cake from the stand and pop payment through the letterbox.

There’s usually a bucket full of cold drinks as well, though if you want a hot drink you can knock the door and ask for one, with a cappuccino costing £2 and a latte costing £2.50.

If you want somewhere where you can sit inside and drink your coffee, then head to The Old Stables Coffee Shop which serves a variety of cakes for £4 a slice.

If you are more in the mood for an alcoholic beverage with a side of pub grub, then you can head to The White Hart or The Castle Inn – both of which are just a few steps from the Market Cross.

You can also stay at The Castle Inn if you want to spend a night in the idyllic village.

Rooms cost from £145 a night and you can expect period features in each room, such as original beams.

For another option of where to stay, Conde Nast Traveller recommends booking into The Manor House.

Dating back to the 14th century, The Manor House boasts quiet gardens, a Michelin restaurant and an 18-hole golf course.

Rooms in The Manor House feature dark, wood panelling and ornate wallpaper and a one-night stay in April costs from £276.

There are a number of things you can do in the surrounding area as well.

For example, you could use the village as a base for a Cotswolds walk, through Bybrook Valley and the North Wiltshire hills.

Just four minutes down the road, you will find Castle Combe Racing Circuit where you can watch karting races for as little as £10 per person.

Like adrenaline? Well, the race circuit also offers a number of experiences where you can drive a car of your choice from movie cars, classics and supercars from £84.

The market town of Chippenham is a 14-minute drive away as well, where you can browse independent shops, have a walk through Monkton Park next to the River Avon and learn about the town’s history at Chippenham Museum.

To include a city in your trip, you could head to Bath, just half-an-hour away.

The UNESCO World Heritage city is famous for its Roman baths and honey-coloured architecture, using the same stone found in Castle Combe.

Chippenham is just over an hour on the train from London, with a single ticket usually costing £25 per person.

To then get to Castle Combe, you can either jump in a taxi for 20 minutes or hop on one of the regular local Faresaver buses that take about 24 minutes to reach the village and cost a maximum of £3 per way.

For more inspiration on pretty spots to visit in the UK, here are five English villages that will make you feel like you’re in The Holiday with cosy pubs and cottages.

Or if you want to keep exploring the Cotswolds, there is a tiny village with a popular garden centre and ‘dinosaur’ tree that welcomed a very famous A-lister this week.

Finland has been crowned the world’s happiest country for the ninth consecutive year in the World Happiness Report 2026, and it’s just three hours from the UK with direct flights from £17

The world’s happiest nation has been unveiled, and it’s just three hours from the UK with £17 flights available.

For the ninth year running, Finland, with its varied terrain and exceptional quality of life, has been crowned the happiest country of 2026. The Scandinavian nation claimed top spot in the World Happiness Report 2026, released by the Wellbeing Research Centre at the University of Oxford.

The findings emerged after a survey of approximately 100,000 individuals across 140 nations, with Finland singled out for freedom to make life choices, social support, and life expectancy. Additional factors thought to contribute to Finland’s satisfying way of life include its minimal crime levels, unpolluted environment, and work-life equilibrium, alongside its stunning natural splendour.

The Nordic nation boasts thousands of unspoilt lakes with sparkling waters and captivating woodlands that blanket over 70 per cent of the territory. The varied scenery is genuinely spectacular and undeniably elevates the standard of living for Finnish residents, providing abundant prospects for outdoor pursuits and wellness.

It’s not exclusively those residing in the nation who can discover its marvels. Finland has emerged as a sought-after holiday spot for visitors eager to observe the shimmering northern lights, trek through its remarkable landscape, or sample its extraordinary saunas, with over 3 million scattered throughout the country.

Whilst many associate Finland with its enchanting Lapland winter wonderland, particularly beloved during the festive season, the country is undoubtedly a year-round destination spanning its four distinct regions. From lakeside retreats to woodland escapes and seaside breaks.

Finland’s capital, Helsinki, makes for a perfect starting point for a pedestrian-friendly city break, boasting cutting-edge art galleries, legendary saunas, thriving eateries and stunning Nordic architecture. The city’s peninsula position, encircled by islands, provides convenient access to some of the nation’s finest natural attractions, from woodlands to islands and shorelines.

Direct flights to Helsinki in April start from £17 one-way, according to Skyscanner. Although you’ll need to layer up with temperatures hovering around 8C during spring, the city’s stunning scenery makes it well worth the journey, with countless walking routes through its peaceful, postcard-perfect landscapes.

Additionally, with an exceptionally strong sauna culture, you’re never far from a warming dip after a day’s exploration. Among Helsinki’s most sought-after destinations is Löyly, a striking waterfront sauna and dining venue, housed in a modern Nordic building with seaside panoramas.

Further notable Finnish destinations include Rovaniemi, celebrated as the Lapland gem, and Tampere, offering another stylish urban getaway. There’s also Kuopio for those seeking to retreat to the peaceful lakes, and Turku, famed for its historic castle and waterside dining establishments.

Beyond Finland, other Scandinavian nations, including Iceland, Denmark, Sweden, and Norway, also featured amongst the globe’s happiest countries. Meanwhile, Costa Rica, boasting its tropical climate, rainforests and beaches, secured fourth position, with European destinations commanding the list.

Top 10 happiest countries in the world 2026

1. Finland
2. Iceland
3. Denmark
4. Costa Rica
5. Sweden
6. Norway
7. Netherlands
8. Israel
9. Luxembourg
10. Switzerland

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

This beautiful seaside town has been named among the best places to relocate to in America

A recent study conducted by The Law Offices of James Scott Farrin examined working and living standards throughout the United States to identify the most desirable location to move to in America. The investigation took into account elements including annual earnings, insurance provision, living expenses, safety rankings, housing affordability, and general standard of living.

New Jersey was identified as one of the finest states to relocate to in 2026, for both living and employment purposes. Expatriates in New Jersey can anticipate generous wages, a secure setting, and pleasant weather conditions.

Among the premier retirement destinations in New Jersey is Cape May, a stunning coastal resort that “feels frozen in time”.

Cape May is a pedestrian-friendly historic town, and ranks amongst the most established seaside resorts, boasting 19th-century Victorian properties, delightful shops and excellent restaurants.

The area experiences a humid subtropical climate characterised by sweltering, muggy summers. According to Great Family Vacations, Cape May ranks as one of the top places to retire in the United States.

The picturesque town provides pensioners with a tranquil seaside way of life, picturesque shores, and a lively and hospitable community. The travel specialists stated: “Cape May, on the southernmost tip of New Jersey, is much more than another seaside retreat.”

American pensioner Michael Potts remarked: “Cape May is a nice Victorian town. It has terrific restaurants, great beaches and is laid-back. It has exactly what we were looking for.” Another pensioner remarked: “There’s endless walking in town and a path along the beach. The beaches are clean; the architecture is beautiful.”

British expats flocked to Tripadvisor to voice their opinions, with one noting that the American town feels like travelling back in time as it boasts “the largest concentration of Victorian houses in the US”.

Another resident said it brought back memories of Brighton. “The shops are especially similar. The beach in Brighton was all stones, which made it quite hard to walk. The pier in Brighton reminded me of some of the boardwalks in Wildwood or Ocean City, NJ.”

A BEAUTIFUL resort on a lesser-visited Spanish island has been named the best in the country.

The luxury hotel, Paradisus Melia, which sits on the southern coast of Fuerteventura, has just named the ‘Best Resort in Spain for 2026′.

The luxury resort was awarded the title last week by Forbes just a few months after rebranding and reopening in October 2025.

While it’s on the luxe side of a holiday you can book it with the likes of Jet2, TUI and On the Beach from £136 per person per night.

In the summer months, Fuerteventura has average highs of 26C and at the Paradisus Melia, you can cool off in one of its four swimming pools.

Three are freshwater, one saltwater and there’s a children’s section with a slide too.

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There’s also a chance to upgrade to the ‘Reserve Pool‘ which is adult-only.

It comes with other perks too like use of the pretty cabanas, access to the exclusive lounge and concierge service along with premium drinks.

All the pools are surrounded by sunloungers, straw woven umbrellas and palm trees.

When it comes to eating and drinking, which you can take advantage of with an all-inclusive package, the hotel has multiple bars and restaurants.

Grab a drink at the cocktail bar, lounge bar or snack bar.

And for food, you can take your pick from one of the eight restaurants.

These include one which is buffet-style, two that are adults-only, and all have dishes that are traditionally Spanish, local, Italian and international.

When it comes to activities, guests can take advantage of the air-conditioned gym.

Or have a go at aqua aerobics, Pilates, table tennis and yoga.

There’s entertainment too and during the evening there’s live music and professional shows.

Throughout the year there are family-based activities too like arts and crafts.

Here’s another hotel in Fuerteventura – and it’s set out like a small village…

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Hotel Club Jandia Princess, Fuerteventura
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.

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When it comes to rooms, each has been newly made over and kept in a minimalist style with relaxing neutral colours and balconies for enjoying the evening sun.

The only board package guests can book is ‘All Inclusive Plus’ which includes buffet-style breakfast and dinner as well as lunch, snacks and drinks.

One holidaymaker said: “We had such a fabulous holiday at this resort. It has definitely raised our bar for all-inclusive holidays.”

With Jet2, two adults can head to Paradisus Melia on May 13, 2026 for a seven-night all inclusive break with transfers and return flights to London Gatwick from £953 per person.

The hotel is fairly isolated, but is minutes from incredible island beaches.

It has beautiful views across Plaża Sotavento and it takes just a minute to get onto the golden sands.

Sotavento Beach was voted one of the best beaches according to Tripadvisor a few years ago.

Also nearby is Playa de Sotavento de Jandía which one visitor said is
“undoubtedly one of the most beautiful beaches on the island.”

For those who want to head further afield, the nearest town is Costa Calma – you’ll need to take a transfer or taxi here which will take around six-minutes.

While it’s not as vibrant as other Spanish towns, it does have shopping centres, restaurants and beach bars.

For more beach holidays, this tiny Spanish island is yet to have mass tourism with incredibly quiet beaches.

And one man who has visited 100 countries confesses why he always go back to these Spanish islands that love Brits & have the best food & beaches.

THE must-visit destinations across the UK have been revealed and North Yorkshire has made the list.

With sweeping beaches, beautiful towns and movie backdrops – it’s no wonder Condé Nast Traveller as one of the ‘Best Places to Go in the UK in 2026’ – and here are some of our favourite spots to go in the county.

Knaresborough

Along the River Nidd is this beautiful town which is often described as being ‘postcard perfect’, or looking like a ‘fairytale’.

It’s a few miles away from Harrogate and is known for having a huge viaduct as well as pretty riverside restaurants and cafes.

Sun Writer Katrina Turrill grew up in Knaresborough, and here’s what she suggests visitors do during their visit like popping into its many pubs.

“There are a lot of pubs in Knaresborough – so many, I always lose count. I found 15 online, but I’m sure there’s more.  There are traditional pubs with rich history, such as Blind Jack’s in the market square. 

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“One of my favourite pubs is Carriages, with its cosy atmosphere and tasty food.  The outdoor area is great in summer, with views of pretty Knaresborough train station.”

Some of her other favourite things to do is heading up to Knaresborough Castle which is where you’ll get the best view of the viaduct.

Get onto the river itself in a row boat and get a bite to eat from Marigolds and an ice cream.

One popular attraction is Mother Shipton’s Cave which is named after the Yorkshire prophetess.

Whitby

The charming seaside town of Whitby has red-roofed houses, winding streets as well as huge cliffs.

Of course the nearby Gothic Whitby Abbey was Bram Stoker’s inspiration for his book, Dracula.

If you want to feel like you’re in the novel, walk up the 199 steps from the Old Town to St Mary’s Church and the Abbey ruins.

Travel Reporter Jenna Stevens who visited Whitby said: “In my trip to the North Yorkshire town, I ticked off all the staple activities. A Mr Whippy enjoyed by the harbour, spare change spent in Funland’s Amusements, and fish and chips for tea.

“Plus my stroll along the sands, backed by spectacular moss-green cliffs, was an ideal way to soak up those breath-taking views of the rugged Yorkshire coast.

One of the things that makes Whitby stand out amongst other seaside spots is its connection to a famous explorer, Captain Cook and the ‘House on the Harbour’ museum is a must-visit.”

Another must-visit in Whitby is Trenchers – which is the best fish and chip shop in the UK.

Trenchers of Whitby secured the Restaurant of the Year title at the National Fish and Chips Awards 2026 – which is considered the ‘Oscars‘ of the fish and chip industry.

A takeaway cod and chips will set you back £13.50.

Robin Hood’s Bay

This tiny fishing village sits on a clifftop overlooking the bay and it’s considered one of the most beautiful seaside spots in the country.

It has winding roads, hilly streets and pokey little shops selling the likes of books and souvenirs.

Assistant Travel Editor Sophie Swietochowski described the village as “something from a fiction tale or a North Yorkshire postcard.”

She continued: “In summer, you’ll find dogs sprinting along the sands, while owners tuck into fresh crab sandwiches from the beachside hut and little ones fish for treasures in the rock pools.

“I prefer the village in winter, though, when visitors can stroll the rows of higgledy-piggledy boutiques and cafes dishing up wedges of homemade cakes piled high with buttercream.

“What’s more, there’s a restriction on visitor vehicles and cars are even banned from the harbour area, making it a great place for a car-free

Scarborough

Scarborough, which is known as England‘s first seaside resort, is split into two bays – the South and North Bay.

Each is worth exploring with the South Bay having most of the shops, restaurants and amusement arcades.

Meanwhile, the North Bay is much quieter and is a great place to simply enjoy the beach or go for a surf.

Senior Feature Writer for Fab Daily, Alex Lloyd went on a family staycation to Scarborough in summer last year.

She described it as the “perfect family day out” where you spend “hardly any money.”

You can rent out a beach chalet from £50 a day and have a go on the cliff-railway for £2.50.

If you’re lucky enough, and bring a pair of binoculars you might spot bottlenose dolphins, porpoises and minke whales.

There is plenty of entertainment too and Alex explored the South Cliff Gardens, a hillside adventure playground and the arcades at Olympia Leisure.

Yorkshire Dales National Park

The Dales are known for glorious views and dramatic scenery and it is seeing a boom in popularity thanks to its appearance in Wuthering Heights.

The new film starring Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi certainly had Brits talking when it came to cinemas last month.

Travel Writer Tracey Davies explored the gothic region and said: “Heathcliff is not the only mysterious, brooding beast in Yorkshire. The scenery provides just as much drama as the Wuthering Heights character.”

She added: “Largely shot on location in the Yorkshire Dales National Park — amid the landcapes of Swaledale and Arkengarthdale valleys and the peaceful village of Low Row — the movie shines a well-deserved spotlight on this glorious corner of England.

“With its scarred limestone hills, scattered with rocks, and rolling green pastures, criss-crossed with drystone walls and peppered with honeyed-stone villages, this region is the picture of a period drama.”

For more on Yorkshire – here’s a ‘world famous ice cream and a hidden beach that’s paradise‘.

And here’s one quaint English village that everyone should visit – says one man who walked 10,000 miles through British countryside.

“Playing for Wales is the highest honour you can get when you are a player and it’s the same when you are a coach,” said Beck.

“To be asked by Sean to join the set-up for the Women’s 2026 Six Nations is a real privilege and I am excited by the challenge of coaching at Test match level.

“Having worked with a host of the players in the Celtic Challenge, I know the talent we have in Wales and the challenge for the players is to believe they can compete at this level.”

Wales kick off their Six Nations campaign at home to Scotland at Principality Stadium on Saturday, 11 April.

ONE of the UK’s biggest free museums has been named the most popular attraction in the UK.

The Natural History Museum in London has knocked off the British Museum from the top spot of most guests, with the Association of Leading Visitor Attractions (ALVA) revealing 7.1million people visited last year.

This marked the best year in terms of visitors for the free attraction, with a 13 per cent rise compared to the previous year.

The attraction happens to be one of Travel Reporter Alice Penwill’s favourite free attractions in London.

She said: “Having been to the Natural History Museum recently, I’m not surprised it’s the UK’s most popular tourist attraction.

“Other London attractions are impressive, but you won’t ever forget walking in to see the skeleton of an 82-foot Blue Whale in the entryway.

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“There’s something for everyone, whether you’re interested in fossils, reptiles and birds.

“My favourite part is The Vault where there are some of the most valuable treasures like diamonds, amethyst and gold crystals.

“There’s lots of green spaces outside too, and I saw lots of children enjoying the Evolution Garden with dinosaurs like a bronze Diplodocus that was installed a few years ago.”

Over the next couple of years, the Natural History Museum is also working on new openings.

A new Human Nature pop-up display will open in September 2026, inside a gallery that has been closed for 80 years.

Inside, visitors will be able to discover stories about human history and the natural world, with a number of specimens and historical objects on display that haven’t been seen before.

There will also be a prototype of one of the Crystal Palace dinosaurs, a monk seal called Jenny ‘the talking fish’ and a handaxe that was discovered alongside the remains of a woolly mammoth in 1859.

Later in 2027, there will be a new permanent gallery specifically for young children.

It will be designed for four to seven-year-olds with lots of hands-on interactive experiences about the natural world.

Doug Gurr, director of the Natural History Museum, said: “We are thrilled to be the UK’s most popular visitor attraction, smashing all previous records for the sector!”

London has a load of free attractions as well, including some right by the Natural History Museum.

One of Sun Travel’s Deputy Travel Editor Kara Godfrey’s favourite free attractions in the city is just down the road.

She said: “Having started my career in fashion, it’s no surprise that the museum I’ve been to the most in London is the V&A.

“The museum itself is fantastic – not only for being free to visit, but because it’s the largest museum on arts and design in the world.

“Also the second largest in the UK (behind the British Museum), my favourite area is the Asian corridor, with insanely detailed artwork and sculptures.

“There’s loads of free events coming right now, including one on Women Printmakers and one on iconic American Photographs.

“Make sure to save time for the cafe too. It’s also the oldest of its kind in the world and is a stunner.”

And Sun Travel’s Head of Travel (digital) Caroline McGuire also loves the Science Museum nearby.

She said: “The Science Museum in South Kensington is perfect for kids of all ages, I’ve been taking my child there since he was a one-year-old, as
the interactive ‘Garden’ in the basement is perfect for toddlers and
pre-schoolers.

“There are plenty of excellent free exhibitions around the museum – one
of our favourites being the Space section – but the most popular (and
deservedly so) is the paying Wonderlab, an interactive gallery featuring numerous experiments that will fascinate children aged 3-14.

“Tickets cost from £15 for this area.”

Alternatively, you could visit an exciting attraction on Tottenham Court Road.

Caroline shared: “Until I visited the Outernet, I thought it was all hype.

“Now, my son and I will make a 25-minute detour to spend even 20 minutes there, when we’re in central London.

“The huge multi-screened space on Tottenham Court Road screens
artist-made short films throughout the day, and you can walk in from
the street and spend as little or as much time there as you want.

“With screens covering the sides and ceiling, you really do feel like
you are inside the films.”

And there’s also the Southbank Centre.

Caroline added: “If I got a quid for every time I raved about the Southbank Centre, I could probably afford a slap-up meal at Pizza Express.

“As a mum of a primary school-aged kid who lives in London, we visit
the venue on London’s Southbank almost every school holiday.

“They have a range of free activities that change monthly.

“We’ve done free kids raves, free doodling workshops, free crafts sessions and free DIY sessions where my six-year-old was given a hammer and saw and encouraged to help build a Moomin House overlooking the River Thames.

“Oh, and the free Jeppe Hein: Appearing Rooms fountains are one of the
best places to take a kid for a splash around during a summer
heatwave.”

Or you could head to a number of galleries including the Tate Modern, Tate Britain or National Portrait Gallery.

Alice said: “When I head to London, I make a beeline for the galleries.

“Getting to see walls upon walls lined with famous artwork for absolutely nothing is something we take for granted – and there are plenty to see in the city.

“There’s the Tate Modern and Tate Britain, The National Portrait Gallery, the National Gallery where you can see one of my favourite portraits, The Ugly Duchess.

“Not to mention lots of these venues have pretty cafes and even bars if you fancy taking a weight off your feet after exploring.”

Here are some other spots to visit across London that are free to visit.

MinaLima

Elsewhere in London, you could head to one of Travel Reporter Cyann Fielding’s favourite spots – MinaLima.

Found in Soho, MinaLima is a shop and attraction that features the graphic designs from the Harry Potter films.

Named after Miraphora Mina and Eduardo Lima, who are responsible for most of the designs you see in the films including the Daily Prophet, the Advanced Potion Making textbook and Bertie Bott’s Every Flavour Beans, the destination features themed items for sale as well as prints of their designs.

Make sure to spend time exploring as there are also items from the films, and speak to the staff, who really know their stuff.

London parks

There are also a number of amazing outdoor places to visit in London including Kara’s favourite, the commons in south west London.

She said: “I spent the best part of a decade living in south London, with two years of that in and out of the Covid lockdowns.

“To stop myself from going insane, this meant lots of walking around my local parks.

“And from Balham you can easily walk three of the best in one day.

“I recommend starting at Clapham Common, one of the more open parks of the three with ponds and a Victorian bandstand that often has live concerts.

“Go down to Wandsworth Common, and you can walk along the train tracks or across the pond.

“Then nip through Balham (with a coffee at The Apple Blue Patisserie or Insta-famous Milk) and end in Tooting Bec Common, with a much more leafier and interesting park to explore.

“Need to cool down? Finish with a swim at Tooting Bec Lido as well, the biggest freshwater lido in the UK (£9.40 for adults or free for locals).”

Travel Reporter Jenna Steven’s favourite free spots also make good walks.

She said: “London has over 3,000 parks to explore, but St James’s Park is one of my favourites.

“This is mainly because I’m a big fan of the unique Duck Island, an aptly-named nature reserve on the east of St James’s Park Lake.

“The island has its own cottage, which is surrounded by vibrant greenery and blooming flowers in the springtime, looking like something out of a fairy-tale story book.

“Plus there’s scenic picnic spots by the bandstand, and several kiosks serving cold drinks and sandwiches to enjoy when the sun comes out – save those crusts for the birds!”

Or head to Lisa Minot’s favourite – Primrose Hill.

She said: “For fabulous FREE views across the whole of London, head to Primrose Hill in North London.

“First opened in 1842 as an open space for Londoners, it was originally part of Henry VIII’s hunting grounds.

“Today it offers fantastic panoramic views of the capital and is popular at sunrise and sunsets.

“It is one of six protected viewpoints in London, its highest point more than 63 metres above tree level.

“Trees are also kept low so as not to obscure the view.”

Covent Garden Piazza

If you fancy something a little more urban, venture to Covent Garden Piazza.

Jenna added: “There’s plenty of both branded and independent shops to browse, traditional cafes and bars, plus there’s always a pop-up giving away tasty treats of some kind.

“Head into the historic Market Building and Piazza for the best atmosphere in the area.

“Here you’ll hear live music rising from the lower level that makes your stroll through the building even more beautiful.”

Borough Market

Another favourite spot of Lisa’s is Borough Market.

She said: “From the viral strawberries in melted chocolate to endless street food options, traders have been operating from London’s Borough Market for more than 1,000 years.

“Today’s unique Victorian arcades, built in 1850, are home to stands offering premium quality speciality foods as well as plenty of grab-and-go options from oysters and paella to burgers and fish and chips.

“While you don’t have to pay to wander the busy pathways of Borough Market, the tempting foods on offer will mean you will not be able to resist parting with some of your cash!”

In other attraction news, there’s a new UK attraction which has been named among the best places to visit in the world – but it’s not for everyone.

Plus, one of Europe’s best beaches is in the UK – and its top attraction is returning this week.

ONE town in Wiltshire has been named one of the best places to live in the UK – and it was once very popular with royalty.

Malmesbury in Wiltshire sits just outside of the Cotswolds border with a pretty high street, stone cottages and it is home to what is considered England‘s oldest hotel.

The Times named Malmesbury one of the best places to live in the UK, and the best in the Southwest.

It said: “If the high street is a good indicator of the health of a town, then historic Malmesbury should be feeling decidedly chipper.“

Malmesbury is on the very edge of the Cotswolds, sometimes even known as the ‘southern gateway’ to the region.

It’s also nicknamed Queen of Hilltop Towns because it sits around 302 feet above sea level.

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It has 300 listed buildings with pretty stone cottages, like you find in the neighbouring Cotswolds, and lots sit alongside the River Avon.

The town is one of the oldest boroughs in England – it was given the status in around the year 880 AD by Alfred the Great.

Malmesbury was also a favourite location of the very first King of England, Athelstan.

When he ruled, he even made himself King of all England and named Malmesbury the nation’s very first capital in around 925 AD.

King Athelstan chose to be buried within the grounds of the historic Malmesbury Abbey which still stands today.

Now, Malmesbury is a classic English market town, but with the charm of the Cotswolds.

It has lots of independent shops on the high street, along with farmers’ markets.

The Flying Monk Café & Taproom is popular for everything from craft beer to a hearty breakfast.

In August, Malmesbury holds its own carnival and festival where there are lots of pop up stalls as well as parades and music.

Near the river is The Old Bell Hotel which is rumoured to be England’s oldest hotel.

The Grade I-listed spot has been welcoming guests since 1220, where it used to be lodgings for monks.

Now, it has 34 rooms that cater to everyone from single travellers to families, and a few suites too

One reported who spent a night at The Old Bell Hotel called it the “perfect spot for some post-party pampering this summer.”

They added: “Our room was a delight, dominated by a vast, comfy bed covered in a rainbow of soft throws and cushions, while a menagerie of monkeys and peacocks danced across the wallpaper.

“The helpful team at The Old Bell can arrange a guided tour of the King’s gardens in nearby Highgrove House, a visit to Westonbirt Arboretum or paddleboarding at Cotswold Water Park.

“However, it’s just as nice to potter around Malmesbury.”

If you want to explore out of the town, a 22-minute drive away from Malmesbury is Cotswold Country Park and the UK’s biggest inland beach.

Along with swimming, there’s an AquaVenture inflatable course and boat hire.

On land there is more to do with mini golf, playgrounds and lake walks.

It opens for the new season on March 27, 2026.

The town is also close to Castle Combe Race Circuit, Lake 32 Outdoor Centre and Brinkworth Golf Course.

For more on the Cotswolds, here’s how to visit on a budget and how to find the lesser-visited villages.

And Deputy Travel Editor Kara Godfrey reveals her favourite Cotswold town with old-school sweet shop and riverside games.