Northern Ireland

This picturesque island off of the coast of Northern Ireland stands out for its unique charm and natural beauty, as it sits completely isolated from the rest of the UK

Tucked away and untouched by mass tourism, this remote island provides the perfect retreat for anyone wanting to reconnect with nature and breathe in the crisp coastal air.

Rathlin Island boasts an incredible array of wildlife, making it an idyllic destination in Northern Ireland for birdwatching and walking, with a tranquillity that only a community of just 150 residents could provide. And yet, they share their home with tens of thousands of seabirds.

The Rathlin Seabird Centre provides a magnificent vantage point to watch the delightful antics of puffins, razorbills and kittiwakes in their natural surroundings. Additionally, seals are frequently spotted basking on the rocks, whilst Irish hares and mink can be seen wandering across the terrain.

One visitor shared their experience on TripAdvisor, saying: “The beautiful and peaceful place. Very little tourism, but it’s not needed; everything is basic, normal everyday life. It’s so simple just to walk the island.

“We have done this on several occasions and walk to each lighthouse. I recommend getting the bus to the bird sanctuary, as it’s quite a walk and very hilly. The scenery is like you will never have seen before.”, reports Belfast Live.

Thanks to the distinctive shape of this small island, it features three stunning lighthouses, each with its own character. Next to the seabird centre stands the West Lighthouse, renowned for being Ireland’s only upside-down lighthouse and an essential stop on any visit.

The East Lighthouse, Rathlin’s oldest, stands tall on the edge of a cave that is steeped in history. It’s said that this very cave was the refuge of Robert the Bruce in 1306 after his defeat in Scotland.

Legend tells us that while hiding away, he found inspiration from a spider to continue his fight for Scottish independence. This tale has forever linked him with the island, and many visitors come to pay their respects at the cave, gazing out towards Scotland from Rathlin.

One satisfied visitor said: “The scenery is mind-blowing, and taking the bus up to the lighthouse and bird sanctuary was fantastic. So much to see, and not just puffins. Lots of other nesting birds, plus the old upside-down lighthouse. Just very cool.”

Another tourist wrote: “A perfect day on an idyllic and unspoilt island. From start to finish… from the scenic crossing to the cold drink at McCuaig’s bar overlooking the swimmers and paddle boarders in Church Bay (at the end of a long walk on a sunny day), Rathlin has everything you could desire.”

However, the only way to reach Rathlin Island is by ferry from Ballycastle Harbour. You have two options: a passenger-only ferry that takes about 25-30 minutes, or a larger ferry that accommodates both people and cars, which takes up to 45 minutes.

GERRY Adams will be blocked from claiming taxpayer-funded compensation under changes to the law today.

The former Sinn Féin leader was on track to receive a government payout for his detention in the 1970s.

1

But a new Troubles Bill will now ban him and around 400 other largely republican former-detainees from receiving public cash.

It comes after an unexpected Supreme Court ruling in 2020 on historical detentions in Northern Ireland risked forcing ministers to splurge vast sums of money on individuals who claimed they were wrongfully detained during the Troubles.

The landmark case, brought by Adams, found his initial detention under an Interim Custody Order (ICO) was unlawful because a junior minister signed the order, not the Secretary of State.

This pivotal decision opened the floodgates for thousands of compensation claims for imprisonment and quashed convictions.
Later, Mr. Adams won a court battle in 2023 that ruled he was wrongly denied compensation after his convictions for trying to escape jail in the 1970s were quashed.

Today, Northern Ireland Secretary Hilary Benn will introduce new legislation to Parliament to clarify that the relevant law always permitted junior ministers to sign the ICOs and, therefore, ensure no compensation will be paid.

A government source told The Sun: “The last government completely failed to successfully address this issue.

“Today we are making it clear in the law that detentions were legitimate and lawful.

“A result of this will be that those previously eligible will not get a single penny of taxpayers’ hard-earned cash.”

THIS is the nerve-wracking moment a Ryanair plane is forced to abort landing in Storm Amy’s 90mph winds.

The dramatic footage shows the pilot unable to land the aircraft at Dublin Airport on Friday.

4

4

4

It comes as Storm Amy swept in on Friday with wind speeds of over 90mph, sparking widespread travel chaos for millions.

Video footage shows the Ryanair plane descending as it approaches the runway at Dublin Airport.

The aircraft can be seen buffeted by strong winds on its way down, knocking it of course as it nears the tarmac at speed.

Just moments before it is due to touch down, the pilot suddenly aborts the landing.

They then pull the plane back up as its forced to go around the airport before it attempts to make another landing.

A plane spotter posted the footage to social media on Friday, alongside the caption: “Ryanair plane has to do a go around because of the high winds.”

Hundreds of users flocked to the comments with some claiming they were on the flight itself.

“I was on that plane, was a very hairy land,” one posted.

Others claimed that it was the “worst flight of my life” and that this was one of two failed landing attempts before the plane diverted to Manchester.

“That plane was like being on the worst roller coaster ride ever, what you see in that video, doesn’t do justice to what went on onboard,” stated another.

According to them, other passengers were panicking and an “elderly gentleman had to be taken from Manchester Airport straight to the hospital”.

Storm Amy is expected to cause further travel disruption across the UK and Ireland on Saturday with flights, rail and ferry services cancelled.

Belfast International Airport said it was expecting delays on Saturday and advised passengers to check with their airlines.

Due to winds reaching up to 100mph in some areas, “risk to life” warnings have been issued too.

Irish Police confirmed on Friday that a man in his 40s had died following a “weather related incident”.

While over 234,000 homes were also left without power across Ireland with thousands in Scotland also facing continued power outages.

The Scottish island of Tiree has recorded the highest wind speeds at 96mph while a provisional October record for Northern Ireland was set with 92mph gusts in County Londonderry.

An amber wind warning has been issued for the north of Scotland until 9pm on Saturday with yellow warnings covering the whole of Scotland, the north of England and north Wales until the end of the day.

A yellow wind warning will run until 7pm for the rest of England and Wales.

Additionally, yellow warnings for rain are in place in north and west Scotland until midnight and in Northern Ireland until noon.

4

TENS of thousands are without power as Storm Amy’s 90mph gusts and torrential rain lash Britain leaving one dead.

The first named storm of the season has swept into the country with yellow weather warnings covering the whole of Britain on Saturday.

11

11

11

11

11

Irish Police confirmed on Friday that a man in his 40s had died following a “weather related incident”.

While 234,000 homes were also left without power across the island of Ireland as Storm Amy brings widespread disruption.

The highest wind speeds so far have been recorded in the Hebrides Islands, Scotland, at 96mph with 92mph gusts recorded in Co Londonderry in Northern Ireland, say the Met Office.

An amber wind warning has been issued for the north of Scotland until 9pm on Saturday with yellow warnings covering the whole of Scotland, the north of England and north Wales until the end of the day.

A yellow wind warning will run until 7pm for the rest of England and Wales.

Additionally, yellow warnings for rain are in place in north and west Scotland until midnight and in Northern Ireland until noon.

Travel chaos has also been sparked across the country with road closures and disruption to public transport.

Train operator, Avanti West Coast, warned of “short notice changes” on Saturday and “strongly recommended” customers making journeys north of Preston to check updates before travelling.

In Scotland, ScotRail suspended services on Friday night and anticipated the disruption would extend in Saturday and possibly Sunday.

Network Rail Scotland route director Ross Moran said more than 60 incidents of flooding, fallen trees and debris on the tracks were reported across the network in the first two hours of the storm.

“Storm Amy has hit parts of the country much harder and more quickly than expected,” he said.

National Rail is carrying out safety checks for obstructions on the line and damage to infrastructure, warning of possible disruptions throughout the UK on Saturday.

Elsewhere, CalMac Ferries also said it expect many services to be disrupted on Saturday into Sunday with many routes already cancelled.

11

11

11

The iconic Severn Bridge between Gloucestershire and Wales was also forced to close overnight due to strong winds.

While parts of the A19 Tees Viaduct, the A66 in Cumbria and the A628 near Manchester were all closed to high-sided vehicles.

Traffic Scotland has also reported a long list of road closures with Forth Road Bridge closed in both directions.

The Skye Bridge, Queensferry Crossing and Clackmannshire Bridge were also closed to high-sided vehicles.

They also reported a number of road closures due to falling debris and overnight flooding including the M9 eastbound near Stirling.

The Scottish Environment Protection Agency had 30 flood warnings in place on Saturday with the Environment Agency issuing six in the north of England one in north Wales from Natural Resources Wales.

Belfast International Airport said it was expecting delays on Saturday and advised passengers to check with their airlines.

All eight of London’s royal parks, including Hyde Park and Richmond Park, will also be closed on Saturday due to the strong winds.

In a statement on its website, the Royal Parks said: “Due to severe wind gusts caused by Storm Amy, all of the royal parks, plus Brompton Cemetery and Victoria Tower Gardens will be closed on Saturday October 4.

“This closure includes all park roads and cycleways, cafes and kiosks, parks sports venues, the Serpentine lido and boating lake, and the royal parks shop.”

“The safety of visitors and staff is our top priority,” the Royal Parks added.

“We’re sorry for any inconvenience that these closures may cause.”

It said opening times on Sunday will be delayed because of safety inspections.

The Met Office said wind and rain was expected to ease throughout the evening for much of the country, but severe gales are forecast to continue in north east Scotland with a yellow warning for wind in place from midnight until 9am on Sunday.

Sunday is expected to turn dry and less windy with sunny spells for most areas, but outbreaks of rain developing in the north west.

11

11

11

A U.K. judge has thrown out a terror charge against a member of the rap group Kneecap.

Kneecap’s Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh, a 27-year-old Belfast artist who performs under the stage name Mo Chara, had been charged with allegedly displaying a flag supporting terror group Hezbollah at a show in London last year. (Ó hAnnaidh denied the charges, and said the band doesn’t support Hezbollah.)

At this Friday‘s hearing — one to determine proper jurisdiction — chief magistrate Paul Goldspring said, “I find that these proceedings were not instituted in the correct form, lacking the necessary [attorney general or director of public prosecutions] consent within the six-month statutory time limit,” adding that “this court has no jurisdiction to try the charge.”

“These proceedings against the defendant were instituted unlawfully and are null,” Goldspring said, releasing Ó hAnnaidh to raucous cheers from Kneecap supporters — including the rapper’s parents — in the courtroom.

The decision came as relief for Northern Ireland’s First Minister Michelle O’Neill, who posted on social media: “These charges were part of a calculated attempt to silence those who stand up and speak out against the Israeli genocide in Gaza. Kneecap have used their platform on stages across the world to expose this genocide, and it is the responsibility of all of us to continue speaking out and standing against injustice in Palestine.”

Kneecap had recently canceled a U.S. tour, citing the court hearing as an obstacle to performing in the U.S.

Addressing the public outside the courtroom, Ó hAnnaidh said, “This entire process was never about me, never about any threat to the public, never about terrorism. A word used by your government to discredit people you oppress. It was always about Gaza. About what happens if you dare to speak up.”

Relating his Palestinian activism to Ireland’s own history of colonization, he added, “As people from Ireland, we know oppression, colonialism, famine and genocide. We have suffered and still suffer under your empire. Your attempts to silence us have failed, because we’re right and you’re wrong.”

MILLIONS of phones will sound a siren next week in one of the largest public safety exercises.

The national emergency alert test will take place at around 3pm on ­Sunday, September 7.

1

Pat McFadden, Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, said: “It will be one of the UK’s largest public safety exercises in history.”

“It is a vital tool for keeping the nation safe when lives are on the line – and every minute matters.”

Phones will vibrate and emit a siren-like tone for ten seconds, with a test message appearing on screens to make clear the alert is only a drill.

Only 4G and 5G-enabled phones and tablets will receive the alert.

The Government has used the system to issue real warnings five times, including in January during Storm Eowyn to warn people in Scotland and Northern Ireland about severe weather.

Approximately 3.5 million people across Wales and south-west England received an alert during Storm Darragh last December.

A 500kg unexploded Second World War bomb found in a Plymouth back garden triggered a warning to some 50,000 phones in February last year.

Messages can be targeted to relatively small areas to pinpoint those at risk.

Some 15,000 phones were alerted during flooding in Cumbria in May 2024, and 10,000 received a warning during flooding in Leicestershire in January this year.

The system is designed for use during the most likely emergencies to affect the UK and warnings would also be transmitted on television, radio and locally by knocking on doors.

Plans for Nigel

IN typically ferocious style, Nigel Farage yesterday laid down the gauntlet to Labour on immigration.

How the Government responds may well end up deciding whether it wins a second term.

1

Farage speaks ordinary Brits’ language and understands their “total despair”.

His cure for the crisis was plenty of harsh medicine:

1. Deportation flights starting immediately and ultimately booting out up to 600,000 illegals.

2. Bringing back Rwanda-style deals with third countries — the only proper deterrent to the small boats we ever had, and foolishly scrapped by Labour.

3. Ripping up European human rights laws and quitting the ECHR, which will also go down well with voters.

Labour will never do it and the Tories have dithered. But can Farage actually deliver it?

How will he achieve returns deals with rogue and failed states such as Iran and Afghanistan?

Many Brits will be wary of his idea of giving taxpayers’ cash to the vile Taliban regime.

The Tories tried for years to bring in a British Bill of Rights and failed.

Where does Northern Ireland and the complicated rules around the Good Friday Agreement fit in?

If he wants to be Prime Minister, Farage will have to provide some serious answers.

In dole-drums

A STAGGERING 6.5million people are now jobless and on benefits.

That’s up 500,000 in just a year since Labour took office.

Numbers of working-age adults on welfare payments have now risen by 79 per cent since 2018.

Unemployment — made worse by the “Jobs Tax Budget” is now on course to be its highest since the Covid pandemic.

Soaring welfare payments are not only totally unaffordable and a drag on growth, it is also morally wrong to demand working people bail out those who cannot or will not work.

Having ditched its modest welfare reforms — and with the Government now paying a “moron premium” on the UK’s debt mountain — what is the plan?

Unsafeguard

VICTIMS of domestic abuse are regularly failed by the system.

More than 100 women a year in England and Wales alone are murdered by current or former partners.

Many were let down by the DASH questionnaire used by police, social services and healthcare workers as an initial assessment of danger.

Minister Jess Phillips says it doesn’t work and is working out how to replace it.

That cannot come soon enough for those suffering now.

But it’s tragically too late for those who have already lost their lives needlessly.

A bathing ban has been slapped on one of Northern Ireland’s most popular beaches just before the bank holiday weekend – after blue-green algae was detected over 100 times across the region this year

Beachgoers have been warned not to swim at one of Northern Ireland’s most popular seaside spots after “potentially toxic” blue-green algae was found in the water.

The bathing ban was put in place at Benone Beach in Co Londonderry by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (Daera) ahead of the bank holiday weekend. The north coast beach, with its seven-mile stretch of golden sand and stunning views of Benevenagh mountain and Donegal, is popular with tourists.

Daera said in a statement: “Blue-green algae was observed on part of Benone Beach on Thursday through the Daera monitoring programme for bathing waters.

READ MORE: ‘Gorgeous UK seaside town is better than than all the others – I visit every week’READ MORE: Lake District holidaymakers warned of harmful bacteria in pollution ‘hotspots’

“Analysis has confirmed high levels of blue-green algae and the department has issued the bathing water operator, Causeway Coast and Glens Borough council, an ‘Advice against Bathing’ notification.”

The department noted that no other north coast beaches are affected. Daera added that it “will continue to monitor these beaches for blue-green algae and provide advice to bathing water operators when required”.

The council confirmed a red-level warning had now been put in place. A spokesperson for Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council said: “A temporary Advice Against Bathing Notice has been issued for Benone Strand from Friday 22nd August 2025.

“This is an escalation from the amber to red level in accordance with the Inter-Agency Blue Green Algae Protocol. Daera will continue to monitor Benone Strand and advise of any changes.”

Blue-green algae has been detected more than 100 times across Northern Ireland since the start of the year, Deara previously said. Large algal blooms have also covered Lough Neagh for the third summer in a row, raising concerns for pets, livestock and wildlife.

Technically known as cyanobacteria, blue-green algae are microscopic organisms naturally found in lakes and streams. They can multiply rapidly in warm, shallow, nutrient-rich waters, with some strains producing toxins.

These toxins are particularly dangerous for pets, livestock and wildlife. Humans exposed to high levels can suffer health effects such as diarrhoea, vomiting, throat irritation and breathing difficulties.

Nitrogen and phosphorus from agricultural fertiliser run-off and wastewater treatment are key contributors to the algae. The spread of invasive zebra mussels is also thought to play a role, as they clear the water, allowing more sunlight to fuel algal growth.

Rising water temperatures – linked to climate change – are another factor.

The Stormont Executive launched an action plan last year to tackle the environmental crisis at Lough Neagh. Earlier this week, Environment Minister Andrew Muir called for more support from colleagues to address both the blue-green algae problem and the broader environmental issues at the lough.

CAT Deeley has taken off her wedding ring as she was seen for the first time since her split with Patrick Kielty, and trip with a male friend. 

Cat and Patrick – who share sons Milo, seven, and James, five – announced that they were separating last month. 

6

6

6

6

Now photos show This Morning host Cat, 48, without her ring on her wedding finger. 

The TV presenter has instead swapped it onto her right hand, in a nod to this new chapter of her life. 

Cat was spotted without the bling on her left hand while stepping out to run errands in a very chic outfit. 

She had a crisp white shirt on and denim jeans, and wore her hair down in loose waves. 

The mum-of-two clutched onto her purse while out and about near the former couple’s marital home. 

Cat looked sunkissed following her recent trip to Spain with a hairdresser pal. 

The star was seen out for dinner with a male friend in Sitges, Spain on August 2 – just days after she and Patrick, 54, split. 

Onlookers told the Daily Mail how the presenter looked “crestfallen” during the “difficult time”. 

The snaps obtained by the publication show Cat without her wedding ring as she and hairdresser pal Ben Skervin tucked into dinner at restaurant Chiringuito de Garraf.

Ben is a celebrity hairstylist and has worked with the likes of the Spice Girls, Mariah Carey and Madonna. 

A fellow diner said: “Cat looked a bit down and a touch crestfallen, not her usual spritely self, which is understandable given her marriage split.

“Her accent was recognisable to a number of Brits at the restaurant, which is popular with celebrities, and she had interacted with a few British kids also dining there

“She clearly needed to be around her nearest and dearest during such a difficult time.”

Cat was a no-show at the funeral of Patrick’s mother in March, his family “knew the marriage was over”. 

One said: “Whatever rockiness was going on in the marriage, something as momentous as his mother’s funeral, you would make up even temporarily and just put your ‘best face’ on as we say in Northern Ireland.

“Cat obviously knew how close Patrick was to Mary and she should have come to be by his side, a hand on his shoulder as he buried his mother. 

“The fact that she stayed in London and presented This Morning on the day, it’s not been forgotten.

At the time of Mary’s funeral, Cat insisted she’d stayed in London to be with their sons Milo, seven, and James, five.A spokesman for Cat told the Mail: “Cat remained at home to be there for her two young children before and after school on this very sad day.”

6

6

Galway, located on the west coast of Ireland, is a vibrant and culturally rich city that offers a unique blend of old-world charm and contemporary energy. But is it better than Dublin?

A charming Irish city boasting a distinctive mix of historic appeal and modern vitality has been praised as “better” to Dublin. Galway, commonly known as the “City of Tribes,” is a dynamic and culturally abundant city situated on Ireland’s western coastline.

The destination is renowned for its creative soul, energetic ambience and closeness to some of Ireland’s most breathtaking natural scenery. Travel blogger The Tales of Tiny Boots penned about Galway: “When I think of Dublin city, I think of people rushing around, walking as fast as they can through the streets, glued to their phones and getting to their next destination.

“The atmosphere is cold. Now to jump to Galway. How do you even compare it? As well as cultural capital, the city is bathed in bohemian vibes that every visitor falls in love with.” In other news, an abandoned UK Butlin’s site is now seaside town’s ‘hell hole’ hotel.

READ MORE: Tourists book ‘hotel’ for Italian holiday but arrive to something totally differentREAD MORE: Prettiest country people say is better than Spain, Greece and Portugal — with less crowds

They added: “It feels like Galway is one long 24/7 festival. There is music always drifting through the streets, there are crowds of people milling around and if there is sun, you will find every patch of grass occupied by groups of people drinking, laughing and having the craic.

“Life is a lot slower in Galway. People walk slower, they are not rushing and focused on where they need to get, they just enjoy walking around the city. The relaxed vibes emanate from the cobbled streets of the Latin quarter. It is such a happy atmosphere in the streets coupled with amazing performers enticing walkers by to stop and enjoy the entertainment.”

Galway, a city renowned for its vibrant arts scene, is a cultural powerhouse. The city plays host to a plethora of festivals throughout the year, including the Galway International Arts Festival, Galway Film Fleadh, and the Galway Races, reports the Express.

Traditional Irish music is a staple in Galway’s numerous pubs, offering live performances in an authentic setting. In 2020, the city was crowned the European Capital of Culture, underscoring its reputation as a hub for creativity and cultural expression.

The city centre is marked by its narrow, winding streets that hark back to medieval times. Eyre Square, the Spanish Arch, and the Claddagh area are just a handful of the historic sites that lend the city its unique character.

READ MORE: You can visit gorgeous ‘real-life Disneyland’ that inspired the legendary films

Another draw for tourists is the city’s diverse and thriving food culture, with a strong focus on local produce and seafood. The city boasts several award-winning restaurants, as well as a variety of cafes and food markets.

Galway’s nightlife is legendary, offering a wide array of pubs featuring everything from traditional Irish music sessions to contemporary live bands. The Latin Quarter, in particular, is a favourite spot for both locals and tourists looking for a lively night out.

One traveller wrote on TripAdvisor forum: “Galway Bay is the site of a historic city in the West of Ireland. These days, the cobbled narrow back streets are homes for artisans. Among the artisans are those who knit the ganseys. ‘Ganseys’ are derived from ‘Guernsey,’ which are worn by fishermen.

“The ganseys are uniquely knit to a family pattern, which helps identify those fishermen who work at sea. The Claddagh is a historic fishing village that is known for its location and beauty. Galway is a wonderful place to wander around in search of artisan products.”

A second user said: “Sat here while visiting with my daughter in Galway and ate our donuts and bagels from the market that day. The market is a must-do as the food is incredible as well as the arts and crafts you can see and buy.”

Those close to Patrick Kielty have shared their concern following his split with This Morning presenter Cat Deeley, whom the comedian married in Rome in September 2012

Patrick Kielty will be “in a very dark place” if Cat Deeley returns to the US with their children, insiders say.

The couple announced this week they have separated following a 13-year marriage, a bombshell which has reportedly led to huge concern for both parties. Residents in Dundrum, County Down – Patrick’s hometown – shared their worry for the 54-year-old star, who married Cat in Rome in September 2012.

Some who know Patrick, who has two children with Cat, fear the presenter would be devastated if his ex goes back to the US, where the couple used to live. One insider said: “Everyone is worried about Paddy. The fear is that Cat will go back to America with the little ones. That will leave him in a very dark place.” This comes as it has emerged other showbiz couple Helen Skelton and Gethin Jones split after he joined a notorious dating app on a lads’ holiday.

READ MORE: Cat Deeley’s response to ‘bent’ marriage before Patrick Kielty wedding ring confessionREAD MORE: Katie Price’s son Harvey breaks down in tears as he makes big change

Cat began presenting ITV’s This Morning last year alongside Ben Shephard, following the departures of Phillip Schofield and Holly Willoughby. However, since she and Patrick confirmed their split, it emerged 48-year-old Cat found the return to the UK difficult.

And so concern has grown Cat, who started her career hosting SMTV Live on Saturday mornings, could quite her ITV job and pack her bags for the US once more. Television insiders told Mail Online: “Cat’s time on This Morning has not been a failure, but it has hardly been a roaring success.

“It is a job which puts her under so much scrutiny, day-in and day-out, and unlike most British presenters she has plenty more lucrative options to choose from in the States… There is concern that all of this family drama could lead her to walk away.”

Cat and Patrick, a comedian and TV host, had lived in Los Angeles for more than 14 years, where Cat presented the reality TV show, So You Think You Can Dance. They returned and Cat swiftly started on This Morning, which is understood to be one of several ITV daytime shows subject to budget cuts. The broadcaster recently announced plans for a shake-up, which includes cutting Lorraine by 30 minutes and dropping it altogether during school holidays from January. It is believed This Morning is set to move from its base in White City, west London, to a smaller, cheaper studio in the centre of the capital.

And Cat, originally from West Bromwich, West Midlands, has also been open about her struggles to adapt to the 5am starts for the four days a week she presents This Morning, and has revealed that it led her and Patrick to sleep in separate beds most nights.

Designed to look like a Cornish village, this quaint seaside resort boasts rows of whitewashed cottages and a 3.4-mile beach – but is actually 581 miles from the UK’s tourist-riddled south coast

A quaint seaside resort ‘steeped in character’ looks like something straight out of a story book, but has incredibly managed to dodge the tourist limelight. Built in 1912, and designed to look exactly like a charming Cornish village, this tiny parish features rows of whitewashed cottages and a 3.4-mile stretch of sugar-like sands – all of which is surrounded by seemingly endless countryside.

But this coastal gem is almost 600 miles from England’s insufferably busy south coast, and is actually situated on the idyllic Antrim Coast in Northern Ireland. Nestled at the mouth of the River Dun, and part of an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, lies the criminally underrated village of Cushendun.

READ MORE: Incredible 27-mile train journey filled with beach views named UK’s most scenic

Here, you won’t find your typical rows of flashing arcades, swathes of fish and chip shops, or dominating Costa Coffee shops. Instead, you’ll be greeted by an often-empty beach, breathtakingly beautiful scenery, and a fascinating history.

With 30 miles of lush landscape at your doorstep, Cushendun is the perfect place for those wanting to escape the bustling city and get back into nature. Check out the Glens Great Grassland Trail, which winds through stunning meadowland, beaches, and through the heart of the village.

For history lovers, checking out the sandstone church, which has been around since 1840, is a must. Today, it operates as a community-run arts and heritage centre which puts on a variety of performances and events throughout the year. Outside in the churchyard, you’ll be able to see Ronald John McNeill’s grave. This man, otherwise known as Baron Cushendun, actually built the village for his wife, Maud.

Cushendun is also one of the best places in Northern Ireland to spot rare red squirrels – making it a haven for nature lovers. “While we can’t guarantee a sighting, you’re most likely to encounter them early in the morning or late afternoon, in the forest beside Glenmona House, where the Glens Red Squirrel Group has built an activity playground,” explains the National Trust.

And lastly, if you’re a fan of Game of Thrones, you need to head to the beach and find the Red Caves – which were used as a film location for the cult-series. On TripAdvisor, Cushendun’s beach has received a plethora of raving reviews – with many highlighting the lack of crowds compared to some of the nearby coastal towns.

“I accidentally visited this beach when I took the scenic route on [my travels],” one person wrote. “It’s a hidden gem: a small and really beautiful beach.”

Another agreed, commenting: “Gorgeous little beach with a car park and toilets nearby. Cushendun isn’t as ‘touristy’ as some of the bigger towns and has a lovely atmosphere,” while a third added: “Fabulous little beach that’s never too busy with nice, calm waters. My family loves it and the corner cafe is a beautiful little place with lovely, friendly staff.”

If you’re tempted to spend a weekend in Cushendun, you’ll first need to get to Belfast. Luckily, a slew of major UK airports offer direct flights – which take on average just 45 minutes – to the city, including Edinburgh, Glasgow, Liverpool, Manchester, Nottingham, and London Stansted. If you’re flexible with dates, you can grab return fares for as little as £28 in August.

Once you’ve touched down in Northern Ireland, you’ll need to drive almost 40 miles over to Cushendun, which takes around one hour. If you’re taking public transport, this route takes an extra one hour and 27 minutes.

Staying in Cushendun itself will be pretty challenging, due to its small size and lack of tourism. However, you can stay nearby in areas like Knocknacarry, without breaking the bank. For example, a weekend’s stay (Friday, August 8-10) at Mullarts Church will set you back £280. This is based on two people sharing a one-bedroom apartment.

*Prices based on Skyscanner and Booking.com listings at the time of writing.

What’s your favourite UK seaside resort? Let us know in the comments section below

This stunning two-mile golden beach is a haven for water-sports enthusiasts and nature lovers alike – and has just topped the league tables for the best UK beach in 2025

With two miles of soft golden sand, cobalt waters, and rugged green cliffs – this slice of coastal paradise seems worlds away from the dreary UK.

Sandwiched between the acclaimed Giant’s Causeway and the Binevenagh Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Portstewart Strand could easily compete with the postcard-worthy beaches of the Mediterranean. Located in County Londonderry, Northern Ireland, the Blue Flag beach, which is owned and managed by the National Trust, is the perfect place to soak up the rays with a good book – or chat the evening away with a lazy picnic.

The beach also draws in a more active crowd, and is an ideal spot to surf, kayak, and paddleboard (if you’re brave enough to submerge into the freezing cold waters). “SUB6 are based at the beautiful Portstewart Strand and are the only Accredited ASI (Academy of Surfing Instructors) Surf & Stand-Up Paddle School in Northern Ireland with an Instructor training centre,” National Trust states.

Travellers can also explore the 6,000-year-old dunes, some of which soar 30m high, or trek over to the Bann Estuary, which is a wildlife sanctuary for waterfowl and wading birds. Portstewart Strand is also the starting point for the 33-mile-long Causeway Coast Way to Ballycastle – making it a popular destination for hikers.

With all of this in mind, it’s no real surprise that Portstewart Strand was crowned the winner of the UK’s 50 best beaches for 2025 by The Times. “You can spot the first-timers as they drive down past the golf club and onto Portstewart Strand,” the publication wrote. “They pause. They look at all the locals’ cars parked on the sand, with picnic tables set up in their lee, and slowly their confusion turns to delight. Yes, you can drive onto the beach, and will you look at the size of it?”

There are also disabled toilets, adult-sized changing bench facilities, and a beach equipment loan – making it one of the country’s most accessible beaches. In 2023, Portstewart Strand also welcomed its unique Sauna and Sea experience onto the sands – allowing Brits to sweat out their sins while watching the sun rise on those chilly mornings.

Experiences can be booked for 30, 60, or 90-minute periods, with prices starting at £80. You can book your slot here.

To get to Portstewart Strand, you’ll first need to fly into Belfast. You can get here directly from most UK airports, including Glasgow, Nottingham, Manchester, Newcastle, and London Stansted. If you’re flexible with dates, you can grab return fares in August for as little as £29.

After touching down in Northern Ireland, you’ll need to travel some 60 miles north to get to Portstewart. This takes around one hour and 14 minutes in the car, while public transport will double the journey time – but is still feasible.

There is a range of accommodation types in Portstewart, from cosy inns to modern apartments. For example, a weekend’s stay (Friday, August 8-10) at Port 56, a recently renovated guest house just 16 minutes away from the beach, will set you back £225. This is based on two adults sharing a Budget Double Room.

For those wanting a more luxurious stay, check out Me & Mrs Jones. This stylish property boasts chic rooms, a family-friendly restaurant and a sun terrace. Staying in a Luxe Room on the exact same dates costs £538, and includes an ‘exceptional’ breakfast.

*Prices based on Skyscanner and Booking.com listings at the time of writing.

Do you have a story to share? Email us at [email protected] for a chance to be featured

PILTON, England — Irish-language rap group Kneecap gave an impassioned performance for tens of thousands of fans on Saturday at the Glastonbury Festival despite criticism by British politicians and a terrorism charge against one of the trio.

Liam Og O hAnnaidh, who performs under the stage name Mo Chara, has been charged under the Terrorism Act with supporting a proscribed organization for allegedly waving a Hezbollah flag at a concert in London in November. The rapper, who was charged under the anglicized version of his name, Liam O’Hanna, is on unconditional bail before a further court hearing in August.

“Glastonbury, I’m a free man!” O hAnnaidh shouted as Kneecap took the stage at Glastonbury’s West Holts field, which holds about 30,000 people. Dozens of Palestinian flags flew in the capacity crowd as the show opened with an audio montage of news clips referring to the band’s critics and legal woes.

Between high-energy numbers that had fans forming a large mosh pit, the band members led the audience in chants of “Free Palestine” and “Free Mo Chara.” They also aimed an expletive-laden chant at U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who has said he didn’t think it was “appropriate” for Kneecap to play Glastonbury.

The trio thanked festival organizers Michael and Emily Eavis for resisting pressure to cancel Kneecap’s gig and gave a shout-out to Palestine Action, a protest group that the British government plans to ban under terrorism laws after its members vandalized planes on a Royal Air Force base.

The Belfast trio is known for anarchic energy, satirical lyrics and use of symbolism associated with the Irish republican movement, which seeks to unite Northern Ireland, which is part of the U.K., with the Republic of Ireland.

More than 3,600 people were killed during three decades of violence in Northern Ireland involving Irish republican militants, pro-British Loyalist militias and the U.K. security forces. Kneecap takes its name from a brutal punishment — shooting in the leg — that was dealt out by paramilitary groups to informers and drug dealers.

The group has faced criticism for lyrics laden with expletives and drug references, and for political statements, especially since videos emerged allegedly showing the band shouting, “up Hamas, up Hezbollah,” and calling on people to kill lawmakers.

Members of the group say they don’t support Hezbollah or Hamas, nor condone violence, and O hAnnaidh says he picked up a flag that was thrown onto the stage without knowing what it represented. Kneecap has accused critics of trying to silence the band because of its support for the Palestinian cause throughout the war in the Gaza Strip.

A performance at the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival in April — where the band accused Israel, with U.S. support, of committing genocide against the Palestinians — sparked calls for the group members’ U.S. visas to be revoked.

Several Kneecap gigs have since been canceled as a result of the controversy.

The BBC, which airs many hours of Glastonbury performances, didn’t show Kneecap’s set live, but said it would “look to make an on-demand version of Kneecap’s performance available on our digital platforms” afterward.

About 200,000 ticket holders have gathered at Worthy Farm in southwest England for Britain’s most prestigious summer music festival, which features almost 4,000 performers on 120 stages. Headline acts performing over three days ending Sunday include Neil Young, Charli XCX, Rod Stewart, Busta Rhymes, Olivia Rodrigo and Doechii.

Glastonbury highlights Friday included a performance from U.K. rockers the 1975, an unannounced set by New Zealand singer Lorde, a raucous reception for Alanis Morissette and an emotional return for Scottish singer Lewis Capaldi, two years after he took a break from touring to adjust to the effect of the neurological condition Tourette syndrome.

Dixon writes for the Associated Press.

NEW Laws and new tech – meaning the Club World Cup will look unlike any football tournament we’ve seen before.

Fifa has decided to bring in all the Law tweaks agreed at the International FA Board meeting in Belfast in February for their new flagship.

6

6

That means the “five second countdown”, with referees raising their hand to tell goalkeepers to release the ball or see a corner awarded to the opposing team.

The latest live trials, in South America’s Copa Libertadores and Copa Sudamericana, saw just TWO incidents where the glovemen exceeded the maximum eight seconds with the ball “under control”.

Fifa will also enforce the “captain’s only” rule for talking to referees, with yellow cards for any players who offend.

The so-called “Arteta rule”, meaning no further punishment other than an indirect free-kick if coaches or substitutes accidentally touch the ball before it goes out of play, will also be invoked for the first time.

As will a new penalty rule, where “double touches” – players unintentionally hitting the ball against their own foot or leg – will bring a retake if the spot kick is converted, rather than being disallowed.

But just as eye-opening will be the technology applied for the first time in competitive play, as Fifa pushes new barriers.

The biggest will be using the latest, AI-aided semi-automated offside technology, where a signal will automatically go to the assist referee when a player breaking the defensive line and more than just four INCHES offside plays the ball.

Rugby fans have become used to “ref cams”, attached to the official’s chest and giving an intimate view of scrums.

6

6

BEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UK

But Ifab approved football to go down the same path, with the cameras at eye level, attached to the referee’s VAR communication device.

While “live” shots will not be broadcast during play, they will be available to give fans, both at home and in stadiums, the chance to see goals and other incidents from the ref’s perspective.

Conversations between refs and VARs can still only be broadcast after a match has finished but supporters inside the grounds will be able to view the images for pitchside monitor reviews at the same time as the officials themselves.

And there will be no excuses for messed-up substitutions, with coaching teams handed a tablet to input player changes directly, rather than having to hand written notes to the fourth official.

6

6

A ONCE loved family destination has fallen into ruin with mice running around and mould growing on slides.

A TikToker revealed the eerie insides of the now abandoned waterpark in a haunting video.

3

3

Footage shows the park in Northern Ireland fallen into ruin with mice seen running around where children and families once played.

The water slides that the attraction was once known for are now falling apart and covered in mould.

Left to rot when it was closed down in February 2020 the park has remained untouched since.

Haunting footage shows the once bright and vibrant attraction completely abandoned, dark and damp.

The facilities have all been left frozen in time with abandoned building explorers the only recent visitors.

It seems almost as if people left in a hurry with the park being nearly exactly as it was when it was open.

Social media users were left feeling nostalgic by the footage with many recalling fond memories of Waterworld.

The park has never been put on the market after it was suddenly closed more than five years ago.

TikToker Jaimie, who explores abandoned buildings for fun and shares footage with his followers, recently visited the park.

He has also explored several other abandoned sites across Ireland and has built a following from the videos of his explorations.

Unsettling footage of Waterworld shows a mouse darting across the bottom of an empty pool.

Video also shows clips of the sauna which looks eerily identical to how it did when the site was open.

Waterworld was also home to a bowling alley which was also left abandoned and frozen in time.

The lanes are left dim and unlit, abandoned exactly as they were five years ago.

Bowling balls still sit ready to be rolled having been left in the facility when it was emptied.

The entire facility was left dark with only the torches of the TikToker and his pal to light it.

The local council has been urged to focus on the sale of the abandoned site.

Social media users noted that the centre still looks to be in a semi decent condition.

Local councillors keep an eye on the abandoned leisure centre, asking for updates on the facility.

Jamie’s video received over 180,000 views on TikTok.

Most were left asking if the waterpark would ever open again with the eerie footage sparking a wave of nostalgia.

3

RAIN is set to fall in just hours in parts of the UK, marking the end of the remarkably dry start to spring, the Met Office has forecast.

Some areas could even see thunder as the skies open up amid the driest start to the season in nearly six decades.

2

2

The Environment Agency has also warned there could be a risk of a drought this summer without sustained rainfall, with millions of households told they may face water restrictions in the coming months.

As of Friday, just 80.6mm of rain has been recorded for the UK this spring – that’s almost 20mm less than the record low of 100.7mm, set in 1852 for the full season.

However, this could change imminently, as the Met Office has warned of showers landing in the north of the UK throughout Monday.

Met Office meteorologist Kathryn Chalk explained showers hit across southern Scotland and northern England overnight on Sunday, with some reaching as far south as Wales.

Heading into Monday morning, there are expected to be “much-welcome” showers across the central belt of Scotland, northern England, and Northern Ireland.

Cities such as Edinburgh and Glasgow in Scotland could be washed out by the rainfall, as could Manchester in the north of England.

Met Office meteorologist Dan Stroud added that Monday would see sunny spells in the west develop widely with a “few scattered showers developing across the north during the course of Monday afternoon”.

He added: “One or two of those could be heavy, potentially thundery, but most places are going to be warm and dry.”

However, from Tuesday onwards there could be “an increasing chance of showers across southern areas of the country,” Dan said.

“Then beyond that, Thursday and Friday are likely to become dry, fine and sunny again, with good deals of sunshine for much of the country.”

Conditions in the UK this spring had been “remarkably dry up until now”, Dan explained.

However, as we approach the final week of May, which is also when schools break for half-term, the weather is “looking increasingly changeable, with areas of cloud and rain arriving from the west”.

The Met Office explained the prolonged warm and very dry spell, which has seen Brits enjoy temperatures as high as 29C, was primarily caused by high pressure.

However, by Tuesday, changing conditions could see “occasional heavy and potentially thundery showers developing across parts of Wales and the Midlands, with one or two of those breaching into London“.

Discussing Wednesday’s forecast, Dan said: “It will be a bit of a chilly start across England and Wales with plenty of sunshine to kick the day off.

“But showers will develop across England and Wales, with some of those showers potentially heavy and thundery and breaching into the London area.”