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Lustleigh is a stunning village that you’ve likely never heard of – unless you live in South Devon, that is. The hidden gem is a perfect destination to visit this autumn

Lustleigh is a breathtaking village you’ve probably never come across – unless you happen to live in South Devon. This tucked-away treasure makes for an ideal autumn getaway, with its charming thatched cottages and meandering lanes creating the sensation of having travelled back through the centuries.

Nestled within Dartmoor National Park’s boundaries, Lustleigh radiates “timeless charm and natural beauty,” the Visit South Devon website states. It’s not difficult to understand why, given the village regularly features on countless lists celebrating Britain’s most picturesque settlements.

The surrounding area has been inhabited since prehistoric times, with historians and archaeologists unearthing stone hut circle remnants and evidence of Stone Age occupation.

Some historians suggest the settlement appeared under the name Suðeswyrðe in Alfred the Great’s will, where he bequeathed the town to his youngest son Æthelweard. It subsequently appeared in the Domesday Book as Sutreworde in 1086.

Nevertheless, others contend that Sutreworde wasn’t today’s Lustleigh, but rather existed at a neighbouring location. Regardless, the village’s heritage clearly extends far into the past, reports the Express.

During the 19th century, the neighbouring settlement of Wrayland merged with Lustleigh, and the magnificent Grade-II listed Wreyland Manor has stayed within the village’s boundaries ever since.

Those keen to explore Lustleigh’s heritage should head straight for the beautiful church of St. John the Baptist and the renowned Primrose Tea Rooms.

The tea rooms occupy one of the village’s historic thatched properties and have earned praise from TripAdvisor visitors.

One reviewer remarked: “Beautiful place to visit. Excellent food and service.

“Everything is to such a high standard and so delicious. I can’t wait to visit again. The afternoon tea is fantastic!”.

Another guest commented: “My first visit and I was very pleased with the outstanding service and the wonderful cream tea. The tea room was bright and airy with lovely decor.”

The establishment operates seasonally from spring through late autumn, so visitors are advised to confirm opening times before travelling.

Whilst the tearoom closes during winter months, the area remains an attractive destination year-round. Christmas visitors shouldn’t miss the beloved Boxing Day duck race at Lustleigh Park, which has become a cherished annual tradition.

Earlier in the calendar, the May Day festivities on the first Saturday in May offer another highlight. This time-honoured celebration features a village procession, traditional maypole dancing, and the ceremonial crowning of the May Queen.

A charming UK market town has become the backdrop for a new Christmas movie starring Kiefer Sutherland and Rebel Wilson, and it’s not the first time the town has been used for a festive film

If you’ve ever watched a Christmas film and fantasised about strolling through a charming, festive village with a steaming hot chocolate in hand like one of the characters, this could be your opportunity.

Earlier this year, locals in the stunning Yorkshire town of Knaresborough delighted in celebrity spotting as film crews invaded the area. Sky Original Christmas film Tinsel Town is scheduled to debut on November 28 and will feature Hollywood A-listers Kiefer Sutherland and Rebel Wilson, alongside an outstanding supporting ensemble including Derek Jacobi and Danny Dyer.

According to YorkshireLive, the production process meant residents could savour their seasonal decorations throughout the town for an extended period, with local shopkeeper Di Watson, from Knitting Pretty, commenting: “The town is buzzing with excitement. Knaresborough is a unique, beautiful, friendly town and we’re delighted to be part of this.”

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However, this isn’t the first occasion Knaresborough has been selected as the setting for a seasonal film. Television movie A Very British Christmas, which is available to hire on Amazon Prime, was also mainly filmed throughout the town.

Therefore, if you fancy having your own festive escapade, Knaresborough might be the ideal setting. An excellent starting point is the stone-paved Market Square, which is encircled by independent boutiques and welcoming pubs.

The regular market operates on Wednesdays, and on December 6 and 7, there will be a Christmas market featuring seasonal food vendors, handcrafted goods, and much more. Nearby, the Green Dragon Yard, a recent filming location, will be adorned with festive decorations.

This charming historic square boasts a vintage shop and an eccentric tearoom. The crew were also seen along Castlegate, a winding, narrow street brimming with independent shops, cafes, and other unique spots.

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As its name implies, Castlegate leads to the entrance of Knaresborough Castle, once the residence of medieval kings and a courthouse and prison. Although the castle now lies in ruins, a keep still stands, housing a courthouse museum filled with original furniture pieces.

It’s also one of the prime locations to view the town’s most iconic sight, Knaresborough Viaduct, where trains can be seen chugging to and from Harrogate. The viaduct was initially slated for completion in 1848, but it collapsed just before it was finished.

Historical records recount that the sound of falling masonry lasted nearly five minutes.

The viaduct’s collapse sparked local outrage, blamed on substandard materials and workmanship, coupled with two months of heavy rainfall causing the river to swell. Thousands of fish perished due to the high limestone content in the water.

However, the resilient town decided to rebuild the viaduct, and the existing structure has stood since 1851, constructed from robust stone sourced from a nearby quarry.

If you’re on the hunt for a snug spot for a pre-Christmas weekend getaway, look no further than Knaresborough Inn. Perched above the River Nidd and surrounded by landscaped gardens, this inn offers a slightly quirky yet warm atmosphere.

With tastefully decorated rooms and a dining room serving hearty British classics, rooms start from £95 per night for two in November.

Just a stone’s throw away from the train station is The Mitre, a pub renowned for its craft beers and cocktails, and an intriguing menu inspired by Asian street food. It boasts four rooms, including an apartment that can accommodate up to four guests.

A stay in a double room starts at £110 per night in November.

So, if you’re yearning for a retreat that’ll make you feel like you’ve stepped into a Christmas film, grab your cosiest scarf and make your way to Knaresborough this winter. Just a two-and-a-half-hour train ride from London, with a changeover in York, it promises to be the ideal festive setting.

However, we can’t promise you’ll fall head over heels for a charming local shop owner during your visit.

Got a travel story to share? Drop us an email at webtravel@reachplc. com.

It is easy to see why this beautiful beach town is being dubbed the “perfect alternative” to Brighton. It has the same vibrant vibe but is much more peaceful

When you conjure up images of a classic British seaside holiday, Brighton might be one of the first places that comes to mind. With its vibrant lanes, buzzing nightlife, and iconic bustling pier. However, it’s no wonder it draws in hordes of tourists – along with the steep prices that come with such a popular city getaway.

But there’s another beach that offers similar charm without the masses. Cromer, a Victorian jewel on the Norfolk coast, is quietly earning a reputation as the ideal, more peaceful alternative.

Like many British coastal towns, this resort saw its heyday just before World War I, but its allure waned as exotic foreign holidays became more popular.

Travel writer Liz Hollis describes Cromer as having a “vibrant Brighton feel” minus the crowds, noting that it’s “increasingly home to artists, galleries and independent shops” as it begins to draw a younger crowd.

While the seaside town is summer-ready with its multicoloured buildings overlooking sandy beaches, it’s just as enticing in the winter months, according to visitors.

One visitor noted that Cromer beach is “very pretty even in winter”, while another reminisced about their “enjoyable walk on a winter day”, reports the Express.

They said: “You can either walk along the beach with the cliffs above towards Sheringham or in the other direction. In the summer months, it can get too crowded for that relaxing stroll behind the cliffs.”

A second visitor described Cromer as “glorious” in January, reminiscing on “winter walks along the beach, with the waves crashing on the shore”.

The most celebrated draw in Cromer is without doubt its pier, which boasts the remarkable distinction of housing one of just five end-of-pier theatres across the UK and the sole venue to stage a complete season of variety performances.

Holidaymakers can also enjoy crabbing from the pier, a cherished seaside tradition, or explore the RNLI lifeboat station at its furthest point, paying tribute to the town’s distinguished maritime legacy and its most honoured lifeboatman, Henry Blogg. For those seeking to delve into this rich heritage, the Henry Blogg Museum proves essential viewing.

Away from the pier, Cromer provides an abundance of entertainment to bring in tourists. The resort represents a culinary haven, renowned for its succulent and delicate Cromer crab, harvested from nearby waters surrounding a chalk reef positioned just offshore.

Cromer’s period streets also house an impressive selection of independent retailers, coffee shops, and art spaces, offering an excellent chance for some relaxed shopping.

As travel bloggers at ‘Our World for You’ wrote in their guide to Norfolk, Cromer is a “gem of the Norfolk coast” and “so much more than just Cromer crabs.”

For a taste of heritage and breathtaking panoramas, ascend the 160-foot tower of the 14th-century church of St Peter and St Paul, Norfolk’s loftiest, which provides sweeping views across the resort and shoreline.

A brisk stroll along the Norfolk Coast Path, which meanders through Cromer, is an ideal way to soak up the area’s natural splendour in October or November, with the crisp air and dramatic skies.

The town also gets into the festive spirit with a traditional Christmas Fayre at the Parish Hall, offering local gifts and yuletide goodies.

For a truly spectacular festive experience, the renowned Cromer Pier Christmas Show runs from mid-November to late December, bringing West End-calibre variety entertainment to the coast and making it a perfect destination for a pre-Christmas or even post-Christmas getaway.

Visitors can revel in the show, which lasts roughly two and a half hours. This year, the event takes place from 15 November to 28 December.

Perhaps best-known for its association with Dracula and an annual goth festival, this cosy seaside town has been named the UK’s best value seaside town, and there’s plenty to do during the colder months

Winter can be an excellent time to explore the UK’s seaside towns. There’s nothing quite like windswept coastal walks, cosy pubs, and uncrowded destinations for the perfect cold weather weekend.

In a recent study by Which? one seaside town in Yorkshire was crowned the UK’s best value seaside break. Whitby, which sits on a long stretch of cliffs where the River Esk flows to the North Sea, scored five stars for food and accommodation in a survey of Which? readers, as well as four stars for tourist attractions and its seafront area.

Whitby has long been a popular destination for those with a fascination with the dark and macabre. Bram Stoker researched some of the novel Dracula while on holiday in Whitby. In the book it’s where the creature first arrives in England, climbing the steps to the graveyard of St Mary’s Church, which is next to the ruins of Whitby Abbey. Needless to say, this has become a popular tourist attraction for fans of gothic literature. Visitors can climb the 199 steps from the harbour, just as Dracula did in the novel, and enjoy views across Whitby and out to sea.

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The abbey, which dates back to the 7th century, was also home to one of the first English poets, Cædmon, and today it’s an English Heritage site. You can wander around the well-preserved ruins before visiting the museum, which has treasures such as medieval manuscripts and even a rare signed copy of Dracula.

One of the town’s biggest events is Whitby Goth Weekend, a twice-yearly event that tends to take place once in spring and once at Halloween. There’s a huge number of events going on, from live music to alternative markets, and you’ll spot hundreds of attendees decked out in gothic gear.

Explorer Captain James Cook also had a connection to Whitby, moving to the port town in the 18th-century and beginning his life as a merchant navy apprentice. At the Captain Cook Memorial Museum, you can learn about his life and his famous voyages to the South Pacific, and the exhibits are set in his former home, where he lived when not at sea.

Whitby Beach has a traditional seaside vibe, with colourful beach huts along the promenade, waterfront tearooms, and fish and chip shops. Along the River Esk you’ll find amusements, family-friendly attractions such as the Whitby Marine Discovery Centre, and shops selling souvenirs and sticks of rock. There are also several places offering a variety of boat trips, ranging from sunset cruises to whale-watching tours.

There’s a wide range of accommodation to choose from in and around Whitby, depending on whether you want a rural retreat or want to stay close to the sea. The White House Inn sits on the edge of North Yorkshire Moors National Park, while also offering sea views across the coast. This cosy inn features a pub with a changing seasonal menu and 11 rooms, with a standard room stay in November costing from £90 per night.

In the harbour area, The Marine Hotel is an excellent choice if you want to enjoy the town’s seaside charms. It features a seafood restaurant serving up Whitby lobster, crab, and other freshly caught delicacies, as well as seven cosy rooms with rates starting from £165 per night in November. You can even pick a room with a balcony to enjoy the fresh sea air and spectacular views.

And for the perfect way to round off a day at the seaside, grab fish and chips at The Fisherman’s Wife on the beachfront. You can either dine in, with the restaurant offering sea views, or brave the cold and enjoy chips from the takeaway while sitting on the beach.

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HALLOWEEN season is in full swing with partygoers across the country dressing up in their scariest get-ups this weekend to enjoy the most terrifying time of the year.

However, it’s also an opportunity for people to wear their sexiest, raciest outfits as they brave the Autumn chill in next-to-nothing ensembles.

Celebrities are no different as many famous faces have donned risqué costumes over the years.

Let’s take a look at the sexiest Halloween outfits ever from Maura Higgins as Julia Roberts’ iconic film character in Pretty Woman to Ashley Roberts as Madonna…

Maura Higgins as Pretty Woman

Back in 2021, Maura channelled her sexiest Julia Roberts look from Pretty Woman.

Fans of the hit film will remember the character of Vivian Ward donning the iconic sexy white and blue dress with knee-high leather boots.

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Maura wore a pretty identical dress as she showed off her tanned legs and midriff, with plenty of underboob showing.

The Love Island finalist donned a platinum blonde wig with a black hat as she went full glam with a sexy red lip.

Ashley Roberts as Madonna

The Pussycat Doll channelled another legend in the form of Madonna this week, namely from her Express Yourself performance as part of her Blond Ambition world tour in 1990.

Ashley looked as sexy as ever as she recreated Madonna’s iconic pink cone bra leotard look, which was originally designed by Jean Paul Gaultier.

She teamed it with a pair of black loose-fit trousers and the singer’s iconic high-pony with a braid wrap-around.

Ashley went for a bold make-up look with a red lip and dark eyelashes as she showed off her sexiest Halloween look yet.

Megan Barton Hanson as Disco Demon

Who would have thought anybody could make a ‘Disco Demon’ look good? Well Megan can!

She’s no stranger to showing off her stunning body in daring outfits but in 2020, she threw it all out of the water with her most risqué look ever.

Megan posed totally nude apart from a pair of towering heels and silver body paint in saucy snaps as a ‘Disco Demon’.

Her eye-popping display featured glitter and mirror shards over her chest which enhanced her cleavage.

Her boobs and stomach were painted in splashes of silver and sequins, with matching devil horns perched on her head.

Maya Jama as Jessica Rabbit

Maya donned her sultriest look in 2020 when she dressed as Jessica Rabbit for the Celebrity Juice Halloween Special.

The ITV star wore the legendary red sequined gown which perfectly synched her waist in all of the right places as her cleavage threatened to spill out.

The presenter showed off her pins with a very high leg split as she posed seductively in snaps on Instagram.

She brought her outfit together with some suede purple gloves as she paid homage to the iconic cartoon character with a red wig and face paint.

Georgia Steel as Catwoman

In 2024, Georgia embraced a Catwoman-inspired look which left us all in shock, donning a tight latex cat suit.

She showed off her toned legs and cleavage in the racy suit which she paired with matching black latex gloves and a sexy face mask.

Georgia posed in sultry snaps as she looked out into the distance in her naughty costume.

Myleene Klass as Wonder Woman

Last Halloween, Myleene made sure all eyes were on her as she posed in a very sexy Wonder Woman look.

She stunned in the barely-there costume as she showed off her toned legs in the stunning fit.

The Loose Women star wandered through the woods in a video clip as she got into character of the female superhero.

Tallia Storm as Cowgirl

Singer Tallia proved how much of a Beyonce fan she was when she dressed as a sexy cowgirl for the Kiss Haunted House Party last year.

She wore a blue sexy latex bra with white knickers and cut-out latex pants held up with a blue belt.

She accessorised with a red collar and cuffs, a white cowgirl hat and a pair of red boots.

Tallia brought her look together with a Renaissance sash as she posed seductively for the camera.

Alex Scott as Grace Jones

Strictly Come Dancing star Alex channelled icon Grace Jones from the 1986 film Vamp.

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Much like the legendary look, the host covered her breasts in a spiraled metal bra, with body paint all over her naked body.

She looked unrecognisable in a red bob wing, with her face painted white with heavy make-up.

A picturesque market town has become one of the most desirable places to live in England, but locals say it’s a victim of its own success.

Winding cobbled lanes snake past vibrant shop fronts, ancient stone homes perch on steep slopes, and the River Calder sparkles beneath graceful canal arches.

Hebden Bridge, tucked away in the Calder Valley’s embrace between Halifax and Todmorden, resembles a town lifted directly from a picture-perfect greeting card.

This former industrial mill settlement has transformed into one of northern England’s most coveted residential destinations, consistently featuring on rankings of Britain’s most scenic, tight-knit communities.

However, conversations with locals reveal a different narrative: one of fondness mixed with weariness. Despite its undeniable charm, Hebden Bridge’s appeal creates significant challenges, reports the Express.

Residents complain of excessive visitor numbers, insufficient car parking facilities, and a growing concern that the equilibrium between locals and day-trippers is tilting dangerously.

Even during a mundane Thursday afternoon, well beyond the peak summer influx, finding a parking spot proves elusive.

Motorists patrol the town centre, scanning adjacent roads desperately for an available bay. As one local quipped: “You can spend longer finding somewhere to park than enjoying your coffee.”

Ben Oliver, 39, who relocated from Sunderland in March 2020, shared similar sentiments.

“It’s a beautiful place with a strong community, and you can see the moors from here,” he said. “But town parking can get difficult, and because of the tourists it attracts, prices go up.

“Weekends are the worst. Sometimes you just give up trying to park and walk in from the edge of town.

“It’s great that people visit because it brings life and money in, but it also means locals get squeezed a bit.

“You notice it most when you’re trying to rent or buy. Prices shoot up because everyone wants a piece of it.

“In summer the streets are packed, and you end up avoiding the centre altogether until things quieten down.”

Yet despite these difficulties, it’s simple to understand why countless visitors are enchanted by this location.

Unique independent shops line Market Street, whilst artisan bakeries fill the streets with the aroma of cinnamon, and the surrounding wooded hills transform into brilliant gold during autumn.

Hebden Bridge boasts a remarkable legacy of determination and transformation, evolving from its Victorian textile roots to becoming a sanctuary for creatives, musicians and eco-campaigners.

Shop worker Jess Wild, who relocated here two years ago, explained it’s precisely that artistic, neighbourhood atmosphere that attracted her: “It’s an aesthetically beautiful place, and the shops have a strong sense of community.

“Everyone knows each other, and there’s real warmth here. But there’s not too much diversity in the type of shops, as there are too many eating places catering to tourists. Still, it’s a lovely place to live.”

This delicate equilibrium between appeal and tourism is frequently raised by residents. The proliferation of cafés and eateries has maintained the town’s energy, though some believe this progress has its drawbacks.

“You used to see more quirky little stores,” Jess added. “Now it’s coffee shops and brunch spots. It’s what visitors want, but it changes the feel of the place.

“You can’t blame people for wanting to come, but it changes the atmosphere. When you’ve got crowds lining the canal and queues outside every café, it stops feeling like a small town and more like a weekend attraction. It’s lovely, but it can be a bit much.”

For Paul Anyon, 57, who operates Paul’s Fresh Fish from his market truck every Thursday, transformation has been ongoing: “I’ve been coming here for 24 years, took over from my father who did the same before me,” he said, skillfully wrapping up a piece of haddock for a punter.

“It’s a busy stall in a quiet town, at least it used to be. Over the years, I’ve noticed a lot of southerners moving in. Prices have gone up, but people are paying more to buy from local businesses, and that’s great to see.”

Standing close by, loyal customer John Smith, 65, waits calmly with his glass Tupperware container in hand.

“Paul always tells me what’s good this week,” he said. “You just couldn’t get fish like this from a supermarket.”

His remark captures what makes Hebden Bridge distinctive: a community economy that continues to flourish on individual relationships and confidence. Not everyone here calls it home.

Numerous people, like Michelle and Tim Holroyd, travel in from surrounding areas to experience what Hebden Bridge provides.

“We come about once a month from Halifax,” said Michelle. “We always go to the Old Gate pub; the food’s fantastic. There are great charity shops and antique shops, too.”

Her other half, Tim, chimed in: “We’re both ex-Scouts, so we love walking in the countryside around here. When there are big events on, we take the train instead of driving – it’s easier.”

It’s the surrounding landscape that lends Hebden Bridge its enchanting charm. The moors rise abruptly from the valley, blanketed in heather and intersected by stone paths. It’s no surprise that writer Ted Hughes, who was born nearby, found a wealth of inspiration in these hills.

The town is also celebrated for its alternative spirit, a robust LGBTQ+ community, thriving arts scene, and a reputation as one of the UK’s most forward-thinking small towns.

For 72-year-old David Moody, it’s this blend of natural beauty and neighbourly connection that makes Hebden Bridge unbeatable, even if it sometimes feels too popular for its own good.

“It’s a walker’s paradise,” he said, leaning against a table as he chatted with passers-by about kindness and community.

“The countryside’s beautiful, but there are too many tourists, especially in summer. It gets too busy, and parking is hard to find anywhere.

“Still, I love it here. I’d only ever move south if I won the lottery, and that’d just be for the weather.”

And despite the frustrations, that seems to be the prevailing sentiment, a kind of affectionate exasperation.

Hebden Bridge may have its shortcomings, but its community spirit, natural splendour, and sense of belonging keep residents firmly planted here. Even on a crisp afternoon, the market bustles with animated conversation, cafés are alive with chatter, and the canal towpath is peppered with ramblers and cyclists.

At Little H Café, where sunshine poured through the windows on a surprisingly luminous October day, barista Ellie Sim beamed as she passed over a toasted panini.

“People always think the north is dreary, but it’s been gorgeous all day. Everyone’s in a good mood when the sun comes out,” she said.

Hebden Bridge stands as a tribute to small-town Britain, where stunning countryside meets a fiercely independent character. Even the grumbles about parking, tourists, or an abundance of cafés serve as evidence that people are deeply passionate about the place they call home.

Both countries’ negotiating teams will start ‘immediately’ to address US tariffs and sanctions, says Brazil’s President Lula.

United States President Donald Trump and Brazil’s President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva have held what Brazil described as a constructive meeting on the sidelines of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit in Kuala Lumpur, raising hope for improved relations after stinging US tariffs.

Lula said the Sunday meeting with Trump – who is an ally of his political rival, embattled former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro – was “great” and added that their countries’ negotiating teams would get to work “immediately” to tackle tariffs and other issues.

“We agreed that our teams will meet immediately to advance the search for solutions to the tariffs and sanctions against Brazilian authorities,” Lula said in a message on X following the meeting.

Trump had linked the July tariff move – which brought duties on most Brazilian goods entering the US to 50 percent from 10 percent – to what he called a “witch hunt” against Bolsonaro, far-right leader who has been sentenced to 27 years in prison for attempting a coup after losing the 2022 presidential election.

Bolsonaro’s supporters rioted in the political centre of the country’s capital, evoking a riot by Trump’s supporters in Washington, DC on January 6, two years earlier.

The US government has also sanctioned numerous Brazilian officials, including Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes, who oversaw the trial that led to Bolsonaro’s conviction.

Ahead of the meeting on Sunday, though, Trump said he could reach some agreements with Lula and expected the two countries to enjoy strong ties despite his concerns about Bolsonaro’s fate.

“I think we should be able to make some pretty good deals for both countries,” Trump said.

Lula previously described the US tariff hike as a “mistake”, citing a $410bn US trade surplus with Brazil over 15 years.

‘Conclude negotiations in weeks’

Brazilian Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira said that negotiations would start immediately and that Brazil had requested a pause in tariffs while talks proceed, though it was unclear whether the US had agreed.

“We hope to conclude bilateral negotiations that address each of the sectors of the current American [tariffs on] Brazil in the near future, in a few weeks,” Vieira said.

He added that Lula also offered to help mediate between the US and Venezuela, where Washington has deployed its largest warship and threatened ground strikes targeting alleged drug cartels, operations Caracas has denounced as “fabricated” pretexts for war.

Bolsonaro was not mentioned during the Trump-Lula meeting, said Marcio Rosa, the executive secretary for Brazil’s Foreign Ministry.

Higher US tariffs on Brazilian goods have begun reshaping the global beef trade, pushing up prices in the US and encouraging triangulation via third countries such as Mexico, while Brazilian exports to China continue to boom.

IN mid-Norfolk is a market town which has classic car shows, a weird hotel and it’s even close to the coast.

Twelve miles away from Norwich and 16 miles from Mundesley Beach is the town of Reepham – and it’s perfect for a staycation.

The town is known for its 18th century houses with plenty of pubs, independent shops and restaurants.

One of the most well-known spots is The Dial House which is an early 17th century red brick house and former brewery.

Now it’s a hotel with themed rooms from places around the world like Africa and Paris, and some of the rooms have freestanding baths at the end of the bed.

In 2021, The Dial House was named as being one of the ‘UK’s best quirky hotels’ by The Independent.

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The building is also home to a wine bar and pizzeria where visitors can grab a hot honey pepperoni or enjoy a fennel sausage pizza.

It doesn’t stop there, other businesses include a bakery, hair salon, massage parlours and beauty room.

As for other popular eateries in Reepham, one is The Kings Arms, a family-run coaching inn.

It was picked as the Travelers’ Choice 2025 award, and has been acknowledged by CAMRA’s Good Beer Guide. 

It serves up meals like homemade lasagne, game pie, fish and chips, steak and Sunday roasts at the end of the week.

All roasts are served with roast potatoes, fresh vegetables, honey
roasted parsnips and carrots, cauliflower cheese, Yorkshire
pudding and gluten free gravy.

The town has three churches and there’s a local legend that three sisters built them – which is why you’ll see them illustrated on the town’s sign.

There are plenty of antiques shops too like Butler and Castell, and Rococo Loco.

Earlier this year, Reepham held its annual Classic Car Festival, and it was one of its biggest events to date.

100 vintage cars were parked up in the town throughout the day and there were lots more visitors taking a look around.

Last year, Muddy Stilettos put Reepham in the top 300 best places to live in the UK.

It said: “Centred around a pretty market square dotted with 18th century properties to lust after, Reepham has good schools, numerous independent shops and all your daily needs taken care of.

“It’s countryside living in a fantastic, vibrant town that’s ideal for families. Plus, it’s only half an hour to the coast and, in the other direction, the fine city of Norwich.”

One of the beaches closest to Reepham is Mundesley Beach which has a long, sandy shoreline and calm sea make this one of the best spots in Norfolk for swimming.

It’s also known as being one of the cleanest beaches in the UK and has Blue Flag status.

Norfolk was declared the cheapest place for a UK staycation in September, and this one is my favourite.

“I love Cromer, the seaside town that sits on the north coast of Norfolk in between East Runton and Overstrand.

“It’s known for its golden sandy beach, a town full of pubs and souvenir shops, a Victorian Pier and of course, Cromer crab.

“While seaside towns can be more expensive than towns inland, there are places in Cromer that are a little cheaper, you just have to know where to look.

“For example, rather than heading to a fancy ice cream parlour along the front, dart into the roads behind the beach and you’ll find Windows Ice Cream.

“Another cheap spot is the Kings Head, which is in the town, but still has a sunny beer garden. And my favourite fish and chips spot is on the corner of Garden Street called Mary Janes.”

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THERE is a charming, small Italian city that hosts a quiet Christmas market for less than the cost of visiting one in the UK.

The tiny city of Arezzo located in the Tuscan hills of Italy features the country’s largest Christmas market that is themed like an Alpine village.

Each winter, according to Visit Tuscany, Arezzo becomes a “Christmas City” in the medieval centre, Piazza Grande, with stalls selling handmade gifts.

In fact, the gifts come from all over, with exhibitors travelling from the Tyrol, Germany and Austria to the market to sell wood carvings, ceramics, and hand-painted Christmas decorations.

You can expect over 640,000 LED lights, a Ferris wheel that offers amazing panoramic views and Santa’s house too.

For something to drink, opt for a steaming mug of glühwein – a traditional German hot mulled wine with cinnamon, cloves, star anise and citrus fruits.

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A mug usually costs around €4 to €5 (£3.47 to £4.34).

You can step it up a notch too by having a Feuerzangenbowle – the fiery version where a sugarloaf soaked in rum is set on fire and drips into the mulled wine.

In the Prato – a large green space that dominates the city – there are more wooden huts selling local street food, such as sausages for around €5 to €8 (£4.34 to £6.95).

Families can have some fun skating at the ice rink as well.

For the duration of the Christmas market, there will also be a number of events and shows.

For example, for €10 (£8.68) per person, you could see Brick House Art – a three-floor exhibition of different Lego artworks.

The market will run between November 16 and January 6, every Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

And for this year, visitors can travel on a limited-edition Christmas train to Arezzo, from Rome.

Called The Assisi Espresso, each carriage on the train will be decked out with festive decorations and passengers will each be given a gift.

Other stops along the route include Terni, Spoleto, Foligno, Spello, Assisi, and Perugia.

The train will operate every Sunday from November 30 to January 11, departing Rome at 8:30am and arriving in Arezzo at 12:10pm.

The train will then leave Arezzo at 5:30pm and arrive back in Rome at 10:42pm.

Passengers can book either first class or second class, and there is a dining carriage onboard too – expect mulled wine, roast chestnuts and traditional treats.

Return tickets on the train cost just €62 (around £54).

And with cheap flights to Rome, you can head to Arezzo’s Christmas market for cheaper than a UK staycation.

Prices for a full stay and the Christmas train cost from just £250, which is 44 per cent less than heading to Edinburgh around the same period, according to First Choice.

But travellers don’t need to stay in Arezzo – they could opt to stay in Rome instead.

Kevin Nelson, managing director at First Choice said: “Rome might not be the first place you think of for a Christmas break, but that’s exactly what makes it such a smart choice.

“Pairing the city’s festive charm with a proper Alpine-style market in Arezzo gives you two authentic experiences for the price of one – it’s the ultimate festive hack.”

First Choice’s Rome package starts from just £184 per person for three nights this December, and this includes return flights to the city and a central hotel, such as Rome Garden.

Add in the cost of the train to Arezzo and back, the holiday costs just £238 per person.

And if you were planning the trip on your own, return flights from Birmingham, Manchester and London all cost around £27 in December.

A hotel in the centre of Rome then costs as little as £38 per night, so if you stayed for two nights, you’d spend around £238.

Both of these options would cost less than heading to the Birmingham‘s Frankfurt Christmas Market for a weekend, where a return train ticket costs about £35 from London and a hotel will set you back around £100 a night.

And that’s before battling the prices of the market – a pint cost £7 last year and a bratwurst around £10.

Before you know it, you’ve spent over £250.

Unless you’re staying in a hostel, a mid-range weekend away for two, anywhere in the UK usually costs £350 to £500.

So why not head to the charming Italian city instead?

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In other Christmas market news, is this England’s most beautiful Christmas market? The 100-stall festive event in the middle of a palace courtyard.

Plus, the cheapest Christmas market in the UK with quaint stalls, bargain food and hardly any crowds.

The UK’s best food and drink can be found in a market town that’s been dubbed the ‘loveliest town in England’ – and it’s not where you’d expect but has grown in popularity over the years

Long hailed by poet John Betjeman as “the loveliest town in England,” Ludlow is also globally recognised for its food and drink scene.

With over 500 listed buildings and a skyline dominated by a Norman castle, Ludlow combines ancient charm with modern appeal, cobbled streets lead to delis, bakeries, cosy pubs and renowned restaurants.

Often referred to as the ‘food and drink capital of the Marches’, Ludlow’s hospitality industry thrives due to its diverse local produce. In 2024, a Which? Travel survey of more than 9,000 people asked participants to rate the food and drink in their favourite inland towns and villages.

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Ludlow triumphed as the nation’s top-rated food and drink destination. It was the only inland town to secure a full five stars for food, reports the Express.

As Which? Travel put it: “Instead of a handful of high-end eateries, there’s a culture of local produce as well as numerous pubs and cafes, served by people who care about the food.”

This ethos is reflected on the plate, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients and menus that change with the seasons. TripAdvisor currently ranks Old Downton Lodge as Ludlow’s best restaurant.

Riverside favourite CSONS is another beloved spot for relaxed, quality dining, along with Kin Kitchen and The French Pantry for cafe and bistro-style dining.

Pub lovers are spoilt for choice with establishments including The Queens and The Boot Inn, both receiving rave reviews on TripAdvisor.

Experts from Ludlow Distillery note that the town’s culinary scene thrives thanks to a strong network of food and drink producers, ranging from specialist cheesemakers and bakers to craft brewers and distillers.

They said: “The strength of this offering is best seen (and tasted) by a visit to the Local to Ludlow Market in the Castle Square (where growers and makers based within 30 miles of the town sell a range of high-quality and carefully selected produce), and the award-winning Broad Bean fine food delicatessen on Broad Street.”

The town embraces ‘Slow Food’, a global, grassroots movement with thousands of members worldwide that links gastronomic pleasure with community commitment. Over recent years, the initiative in Ludlow has grown substantially.

Slow Food Ludlow Marches offers year-round events, including visits, talks, demonstrations, meals and Taste Workshops at Ludlow Food Festival in September.

Ludlow Food Festival remains one of the town’s biggest annual events, regularly drawing around 15,000 visitors to Ludlow Castle over three days.

While it has finished for 2025, locals and tourists can look forward to the Winter Festival at Ludlow Castle. Scheduled to take place from 28th to 30th November 2025, the event will showcase local entertainment, mulled wine, and popular favourites from the Ludlow Food Festival.

To make the most of your visit, plan it for the second or fourth Thursday of the month when the Ludlow Local Produce Market is held, featuring food and drink produced within a 30-mile radius.

The stalls emphasise sustainability and seasonality, turning an ordinary shopping trip into a delightful afternoon outing. Beyond Shropshire, Wells was named as the runner-up for inland dining by Which? Travel.

Other places that received accolades include Lavenham in Suffolk, Llangollen in Denbighshire, Stamford in Lincolnshire, and Cartmel in Cumbria. Each offers a unique flavour of a gastronomic getaway.

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JUST 16 miles from the bustling city of Lisbon is a hidden gem town with stunning architecture and a royal past.

Cascais sits on the Portuguese Riviera and is known for its scenic beaches.

The town started out as a fishing village before becoming a popular retreat for the Portuguese royal family.

For example, in the 1870s, King Luis I of Portugal had a summer home in Cascais and as a result, the destination was viewed by others as a glamorous place to go.

Many wealthy families then started to visit, resulting in a number of grand mansions being built.

Later, during the Second World War, the town became a safe haven for exiled European royalty.

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And a number of spies also resided in the region – which ultimately inspired Ian Fleming’s first James Bond novel, Casino Royale, set in Estoril nearby.

Today, the rich and famous still enjoy the town with Cristiano Ronaldo’s new £22million house – which is rumoured to be Portugal’s most expensive residence – located in Quinta da Marinha, in Cascais.

For those heading to the town there is plenty to do.

Rather uniquely, Cascais has a ‘Museum Quarter’ where visitors can explore the Condes de Castro Guimaraes Museum inside the Palace of the Counts of Castro Guimaraes.

The mock-Gothic building features the oldest museum in the town.

Alternatively, travellers can head to the Sea Museum that includes exhibits on underwater archeology and the original fishing community that lived in the town.

Then in the historic centre, there are a number of charming cobbled streets with traditional mosaic pavements, pretty squares and quaint shops.

Of course, the town has sprawling beaches too.

One spot is Praia da Conceicao – a golden sand beach near the centre of the town where you can head to Estoril along a coastal path.

The path stretches over 1.5 miles long and offers beautiful sea views from several beaches.

One recent visitor said: “This is a beautiful beach in the Cascais area near the train station.

“I’d say it’s a small beach with calm, clean, but cool waters.

“The beach also has good facilities: restrooms, showers, a beach bar, a restaurant, and umbrella rentals.

“I loved the caves and rocks, and Rua Frederico Arouca near the beach is lined with bars, restaurants, and souvenir shops.”

If you enjoy surfing, you should head to Praia do Guincho, which boasts large, crashing waves.

There is also the Santa Marta Lighthouse to explore, which has a blue and white exterior and also has a museum about the country’s lighthouses.

If you fancy a longer hike, with forests and sights of historic palaces, head to the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park.

Depending on what time of the year you visit, the town also hosts a number of events such as jazz festivals, sailing championships and a classic car exhibition.

When it comes to the food scene, there is a lot of choice as well.

Linking back to its fishing village past, the destination has lots of top seafood spots with fresh dishes such as lobster stew and grilled fish.

One well-rated spot is Residente, which features a cream and green interior, with a tiled bar and lots of plants hanging from the ceiling.

You could opt for traditional Portuguese octopus rice with garlic and coriander for €22 (£19.13) or traditional cod fish with egg, onion and potato for €18 (£15.65).

For something sweeter, make sure to head to Santini – a historic ice cream shop that has been a part of Cascais for over 50 years.

The town also has a lot of hotels to choose from depending on your budget.

You could stay at the Grande Real Villa Itália Hotel & Spa, which used to be the home of exiled Italian kings.

The hotel faces the ocean and has a swimming pool, spa, gym and is close to a number of golf courses.

It costs from £179.05 a night, for two adults.

Or you could head to Legacy Hotel Cascais, Curio Collection By Hilton from £137 per night.

The hotel is just a five-minute walk to the town centre and a 10-minute walk to the beach.

In addition to modern rooms and a breakfast buffet, the hotel also has a rooftop pool, indoor swimming pool, spa and wellness centre, sauna, sun terrace and sprawling garden.

The best way to get to the town is by flying to Lisbon, which costs from £41 if flying from Manchester, from £42 if flying from London and from £57 if flying from Birmingham.

Once in Lisbon, hop on the train to Cascais, which takes around 40 minutes and costs from as little as €2.30 (£2) per way.

Make sure to grab a seat on the left side of the train, as the entire journey runs along the coastline to Cascais, so you will be able to see lots of pretty towns, beaches and monuments.

Cascais is then also the last stop on the journey so you don’t need to worry about missing your stop.

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If you are looking for other places to travel to in Portugal, here are Portugal’s lesser-visited areas including Algarve-alternative beaches where you can stay from £19 a night.

Plus, Portugal’s sunshine coast has sand, sea and sensible prices for all budgets.

The lovely market town is well worth a visit – especially in the autumn.

Nestled along the gentle bends of the River Tees, Yarm is a market town overflowing with rich history and natural splendour.

Renowned for its idyllic setting, Yarm, situated in Tee’s Valley, is frequently hailed as one of the most beautiful towns in the area.

Another well-loved North Yorkshire town is York, which bears such a resemblance to Yarm that it has been dubbed a ‘mini York’.

However, this town, located just seven miles from Middlesbrough, is said to be more affordable than the bustling city of York.

Yarm’s historic past is mirrored in the town’s architecture, including the 15th-century Yarm Bridge, one of the oldest surviving bridges in England, reports the Express.

Its delightful high street is also adorned with a diverse array of independent boutiques, snug cafés, and welcoming restaurants, providing both locals and visitors with a warm, genuine experience in a truly unforgettable setting.

Yarm, also referred to as Yarm-on-Tees, is a favourite destination for tourists, especially during the summer months, when visitors can appreciate the town’s picturesque riverside location and historic allure.

But autumn is also an excellent time for a getaway to this quaint historic town.

Tees Valley’s parks and gardens radiate in stunning red and orange hues during the autumn months – a spectacle not to be missed.

One visitor wrote on Tripadvisor: “Beautiful village with lots of parking on wide main street but it’s very busy and can be difficult to find a parking place. We stopped at a pub on the riverside before crossing the bridge for lunch, which was very nice.

“Yarm has lots of independent shops with crafts and unusual things to buy and is worth a visit just for that. We enjoyed the shops so much we didn’t have time to go to the riverside, plus it was very hot. Plenty of eateries catering to every taste. We are definitely going back this time to the riverside.”

Another shared: “Called here Sunday afternoon and was fairly busy but just managed to get parked near [the] front but quite a few cars looking to get parked a big issue here.

“Once parked, some nice shops and eateries pubs charity shops etc some normal chains and some boutique posh shops for the footballers wags. Spent a hour or two here on a dry sunny day and had a nice stroll and a drink in Cafe Nero. Would visit again on another day but will get there early to park.”

RYANAIR has launched its winter 2025 schedule for a popular Spanish destination – and it means more flights from the UK.

The budget airline has announced its winter schedule for Alicante, with 79 routes in total including 10 new destinations.

Alicante is known for having pretty beaches with clear waters and a famous nightlife scene.

And new flights to Alicante will include from Cardiff in Wales as well as Aberdeen in Scotland.

Three flights a week will operate from each airport to Alicante.

And extra flights will be added from Edinburgh to Scotland, a route already in place.

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As a result of the additions, Ryanair‘s winter capacity in Alicante will rise by 12 per cent.

However, the additions come as Ryanair has scrapped around two million seats to Spain in the past months.

Last month, the airline said that they would be cancelling all of their flights to Tenerife North, Vigo and Santiago.

Ryanair currently has two aircraft based at Santiago de Compostela and when Sun Travel looked at Ryanair’s booking platform, it found that the last flight to the destination before operations cease, departs on March 27, 2026.

For Tenerife North, no flights appear on the booking platform and all Ryanair flights to Vigo will stop in January 2026.

Both of the airline’s bases at Valladolid and Jerez will remain closed as well.

Just last week O’Leary also confirmed that a further 1.2million seats would be axed to Spain next summer, yet the airports that will be impacted have not been revealed yet.

The flurry of cancellations come as the airline disagrees with current airport tariffs in Spain.

AENA, which owns and operates 46 airports across Spain, recently announced that airport charges would increase by 6.5 per cent at the start of 2026, marking the highest rise in a decade.

The charges are for airlines’ use of airports and services at them, such as using terminals, runways, security and baggage handling.

Last week, O’Leary said: “AENA and its major shareholder, the Spanish Govt, continue to harm regional traffic growth, tourism and jobs in Spain through high airport fees and unjustified price increases.

“AENA should be lowering airport fees at underused Regional airports, but instead they plan to increase them by seven per cent, the highest fee increase for over a decade.

“The Spanish Govt has failed to stimulate Regional tourism and jobs, as it continues to protect the Aena Monopoly’s high fee operations.

“We regret that these fee increases make Regional Spanish airports uncompetitive, and this is why Ryanair is switching 1.2m more seats away from Regional airports in Spain in S2026, to some of Spain’s bigger airports, but mainly to lower-cost competitor airports in Italy, Morocco, Croatia, Sweden, and Hungary.”

It is believed that AENA is implementing the increased tariffs to fund investments in its airports.

This includes Malaga Airport, which is set to undergo a £1.3billion multi-year expansion project which will include making the terminals larger and security more efficient.

Barcelona Airport is also due to get a major upgrade.

If plans are approved, AENA will invest £2.8billion into expanding the airport, with the operator hoping to reach a runway capacity of 90 flights per hour.

Both projects form part of the DORA III plan – a £11.3billion investment plan for the next five years.

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The small seaside development in Carmarthenshire is known as ‘Sunset Village’ and offers stunning and tranquil views that residents say are like a year-round holiday

In a charming seaside town, there’s a row of houses that leave locals gasping ‘wow’ every morning.

Living here feels like a permanent holiday, regardless of the British weather. Who needs a coastal getaway when you can see the sea as soon as you open your curtains? Welcome to Pentre Nicklaus Village on the fringes of Llanelli in south-west Wales.

Although it’s just a stone’s throw from the town centre, the peaceful views and tranquillity make it feel miles away. Two decades have passed since the first of approximately 170 homes were built here, offering vistas found in few other parts of the UK.

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The properties in this development were designed in a ‘New England style’, giving you the feeling of being in a Welsh mini-version of The Hamptons – an area in Long Island, New York, known for its grand homes with spacious terraces and balconies overlooking breathtaking sea views, reports the Express.

In fact, it bears a striking resemblance to Seahaven, the fictional small, privately-owned beachside town from the Truman Show, made famous by Jim Carrey in the 1998 hit comedy drama. From your balcony, on a clear day, you can enjoy stunning views of Gower on one side and Tenby on the other.

“I’m always in awe – in the summer in particular it’s just breathtaking,” said Janice Gallacher, a local resident who enjoys a stunning view of the Millennium Coastal Path, a picturesque trail along the Loughor Estuary that leads into the bounteous Carmarthen Bay.

“But whatever the season, it’s beautiful. Every day is different, every day you get to see the sunset. Even when the tide is rough it’s brilliant to watch.”

In 2004, Janice relocated to Pentre Nicklaus alongside her husband Stuart, a Llanelli icon celebrated for his rugby accomplishments in both union and league, before assuming senior positions as chief executive of Llanelli RFC and the Scarlets.

Stuart died in 2014, but Janice has remained deeply devoted to the area they selected together. Now a great-grandmother, the location continues to provide plenty for her to enjoy.

Showcasing her spacious open-plan upper-floor home, Janice enthuses about the local wildlife and the sweeping coastal views on her doorstep.

She also highlights the proximity to Llanelli’s town centre, saying: “I can walk to the nursery in 10 minutes, we’ve got the golf club around the corner – it’s a wonderful place to live. I can see the coast for miles around. We knew when we bought the place almost 20 years ago that it was a home for life.”

Carwyn and Susan Richards, who reside next door to Janice, are equally fortunate with their seaside outlook and recall how the view of the property convinced them to relocate immediately. The pair hail from Llanelli and returned here in 2014 following a period in neighbouring Gower.

“We had to travel into and through Swansea to get anywhere, but here we’re close to shops, we’re close to family and we’re close to the M4, it’s perfect. Summer time is the best time to live here but it’s beautiful all year round,” they gushed.

A photograph captured by Carwyn, which adorns their wall, perfectly captures the stunning panorama from their home. “We’ve moved around a lot over the years with my job,” Carwyn recalled.

“We had a lovely place to live in Gower, right by the beach. When we decided to come back to this area, we looked at several places. But as soon as we stepped through the door here, it was June and straight away we saw that view. That was it. We knew within 30 seconds that this was where we wanted to be.

“We’re not moving again!” Susan declared emphatically. “This is home.” Further along Pentre Nicklaus, Garry is busy with his refurbishment.

Unlike most properties of comparable design that boast a wall separating the kitchen and lounge on the second floor, Garry has opted to knock it down, forming a vast open-plan area that makes the most of the spectacular seaside vistas through the enormous glass windows.

Garry and his family were attracted to their property in Pentre Nicklaus six years ago, chiefly for its breathtaking outlook: “We wanted this place because of the view. We originally came here because it’s near the sea and the coastal path and I love cycling – all that is literally right in front of us, so it was a lifestyle choice.”

Situated in Llanelli, a town with a proud rugby tradition, Garry’s home boasts a remarkable sporting connection, having previously belonged to Gareth Jenkins, the former player and head coach of the Wales national team – a detail Garry enthusiastically mentions from his balcony.

“We wanted this place because of the view. We originally came here because it’s near the sea and the coastal path and I love cycling – all that is literally right in front of us, so it was a lifestyle choice.”

“Some people might look at the land down there (between his home and the estuary) and think it’s just wasteland but we don’t see it like that. We have wild foxes here, we have birds of prey – for us it’s a nature reserve on our doorstep.

“The best part about the view is that it changes every hour. It’s expensive to buy a property here but it’s free for everyone to enjoy the path and the surroundings. We used to commute a lot, which is bad for the environment and it’s bad for our health. Thankfully I’m able to work from home. People might think you take it for granted after a while but you don’t. It’s just stunning.”

Living in Pentre Nicklaus delivers the perfect balance. Whilst the town centre’s energy and activity lies just a brief stroll away, your property serves as a peaceful sanctuary.

Peering through your generous lounge window during the evening hours, you’re surrounded by wildlife and the ocean, creating the sensation of being countless miles from civilisation.

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Geneva is one of the most expensive cities in Europe, but it’s also one of the most walkable – and the city centre is just a six minute journey from the airport

Geneva is a stunning destination, not just for its breathtaking landscapes and cultural treasures but also for its pedestrian-friendly layout.

Despite being one of the priciest places to visit in Europe, footloose tourists are spoilt for choice in this Swiss city. The city centre is a mere six-minute journey from the airport, making it an ideal spot for those on brief trips who don’t fancy a lengthy transfer.

According to geneva.info, Geneva airport is situated four kilometres from the city. A train ride between the Geneva Airport and the central railway station in the city (Gare Cornavin) takes six minutes, while a bus journey lasts about 20 minutes.

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Visitors can utilise public transport around the city without shelling out a single penny and can freely hop on and off its comprehensive transport network. Anyone lodging in approved accommodation, be that a hotel, youth hostel, or campsite, is entitled to the city’s Transport Card for free travel throughout their stay, reports the Express.

Walkable city

The city centre of Geneva is relatively compact, meaning most of its top attractions are located within a short distance of each other. Whether you’re staying near the lake or in the Old Town, many of the city’s highlights are reachable on foot.

You can stroll from the famous Jet d’Eau, the large fountain, to the charming Parc des Bastions, a renowned park, without needing to catch a bus or tram. Geneva’s streets, particularly around the Old Town, are pedestrian-friendly with wide pavements, abundant green spaces and clearly marked crossings.

One of Europe’s largest lakes, Lake Geneva, is a major attraction in the city. The lakefront paths are perfect for leisurely strolls or brisk walks, offering stunning views of the water, distant Alps and the iconic Jet d’Eau fountain.

The city boasts numerous parks that offer tranquil walking routes. Parc La Grange and Parc des Eaux-Vives, both situated along the lake, are perfect for an afternoon amble. Another favourite is Jardin Anglais, conveniently located near the city centre and offering picturesque lakeside vistas.

For those seeking more adventurous treks, Geneva’s position at the foot of the Alps provides easy access to hiking trails just outside the city.

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Public transport

While Geneva is easily navigable on foot, its public transport system offers a welcome respite for weary feet. The city has trams, buses, and even water taxis (known as Mouettes) that can swiftly transport you to any part of the city.

Moreover, if you’re staying at a hotel in Geneva, you’ll typically receive a Geneva Transport Card for complimentary public transport during your stay. In line with its commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly practices, Geneva encourages walking and aims to reduce car traffic. Several areas in the city have limited or no car access.

Senegal is a vibrant West African country that’s just a six-hour plane trip from the UK – and it boasts some pretty incredible beaches as well as 32C heat in November

Just a six-hour flight from the UK, the lively African nation of Senegal boasts pristine golden beaches that stretch along most of its coastline.

This haven for beach lovers offers endless expanses, with each beach offering something unique for every type of traveller. Whether you’re looking to unwind and relax, get involved in watersports or dive into the party scene, there’s a beach in Senegal just for you.

The West African country has become a hotspot for the international surf scene. Home to a world-renowned wave, it’s not uncommon to spot pro surfers on Senegal’s shores. But don’t worry if you’re new to the sport – there are plenty of calmer beaches with surf schools catering to all abilities.

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In the heart of Dakar, Senegal’s vibrant capital, keen surfers often flock to the bustling Virage beach. After a day riding the waves, visitors can kick back and enjoy the stunning views at one of the many beach bars or restaurants lining the coast, reports the Express.

But it’s not just about the beaches – this diverse country is also home to an array of incredible wildlife. Birdwatchers will be in their element, with the chance to spot some of Africa’s rarest species.

And with a range of habitats to explore – from mangroves and freshwater pools to savannah lands and forests – nature lovers won’t be short of places to explore.

Senegal, known for its stunning beaches, is also a hub for trendsetting art, culture and fashion. It hosts the renowned Dak’Art exhibition every two years, attracting art enthusiasts from around the world to celebrate African artwork.

While many African countries boast of their cuisine, Senegal’s rich culinary dishes are a standout. The national dish, Thieboudienne (pronounced ceebu jen), is a tantalising rice and fish meal. It features stewed broken jasmine rice and vegetables paired with marinated fish, which can be any type available.

For those with a penchant for trying new foods, this dish can be perfectly complemented with Bissap, Senegal’s national drink. This highly nutritious tea is made from hibiscus flowers, sweetened with sugar and flavoured with mint.

However, first-time travellers to Senegal are warned by the UK Government about potential dangers, such as pickpocketing, particularly in Dakar.

Holidaymakers are advised against walking alone in the evening and after dark, especially women. They’re also cautioned not to wear conspicuous jewellery and to keep handbags or satchels on the side furthest from the street.

The Government further advises travellers to pre-arrange taxis to avoid bogus drivers and ensure they show ID. For those who fancy a self-drive holiday, UK driving licences are valid for up to six months in Senegal. However, due to the stark difference in driving standards, Brits are advised against driving after dark if possible.

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I’m sitting on the ground with seven others, huddled around a mass of lumpy, grey matter that quickly turns to powder under the pounding of hammers. Beside us are a small dipping pool, some mulberry trees and a whitewashed house crawling with purple bougainvillaea, from which two dogs drift in and out to inspect our work.

“This is pretty therapeutic, isn’t it?” someone says above the clattering of tools, as flower-dappled light dances on a canopy that’s shielding us from the hot Andalucían sun.

We’re on a four-day wild clay ceramics retreat at Las Mecias, a regenerative farm in Spain’s Alpujarras, an idyllic valley just over an hour and a half south-east of Granada in the Sierra Nevada mountains. The course is a collaboration between Las Mecias’s Dutch owners, Laura and Nina, and Spaniards Milena and Julia from Tierra de Arcillas, a local ceramics studio. They connected through Instagram and things evolved from there.

The aim is to teach guests how to find, forage, process and fire ceramics from locally sourced wild clay in a more sustainable approach to pottery. They run a handful of workshops in spring and autumn when temperatures are more bearable.

I found Las Mecias while looking for pottery retreats in Spain, already hooked after one wheel-throwing workshop months earlier. That class came towards the end of a debilitating bout of depression and anxiety that had left me unable to work or function properly for months. At the wheel, I felt the dark cloud lift temporarily and anxious ruminations evaporated like water on a hot stove.

This time I’d be hand-building pottery for the first time. Las Mecias is located in exactly the kind of place those tired of the city long to escape to. Set off a dusty track, a few minutes from the picturesque mountainside pueblo (village) of Cástaras, the 2-hectare (5-acre) off-grid organic farm and retreat space is a natural haven dotted with olive and fruit trees, wildflowers and vegetable gardens.

The accommodation comprises a tiny home (a dinky caravan with a sundeck), a good-sized Mongolian-style yurt, and a minimalist Mediterranean two-bedroom casita (small house) with a kitchen, living room and terrace. All have spellbinding views over the low Sierra de la Contraviesa, which is speckled with vines and cortijos (farmhouses).

Our group includes a model from Taiwan, a Spanish project manager, a French yoga teacher, a Polish AI expert and a clarinettist from High Wycombe. My girlfriend and I are staying off-site at El Huerto de Lobras – a collection of bucolic apartments run by an endearing abuela (grandmother) named Ana.

The first day begins with introductions followed by a lesson on clay theory and a foraging mission led by Milena and Julia. The warm, spirited couple, who met in Barcelona and now live together in Almería, run Tierras de Arcillas in the foothills of the Alpujarras Almeriense.

Sick of being stuck behind a screen, Julia, a graphic designer, took a ceramics course in Barcelona where she became fascinated with the origins of clay. Lighting designer Milena was converted later when trawling the hills of Almería, charmed by the earth’s colours and textures.

Armed with pick-spades, we all set off to roam the marbled hills, searching for good clay. “See those cracks? That’s a good sign,” Julia says, leading us to a jagged, light-grey shard of mountain. We test the quality by removing stones, adding a drop of water, making a ball, then a tiny sausage, then a ring. The ring is the goal as it means the clay is 70% pure. After a positive test, we hack away frantically in clouds of dust, filling buckets like middle-class miners.

Back at the farm, Laura and Nina prepare dinner. Between them, the couple have worked in kitchens across the UK, Australia, Denmark and the Netherlands, so meals at Las Mecias are exceptional. For breakfast, there’s freshly made sourdough loaves, homemade quince, strawberry and plum jams and plates of watermelon, mango and loquat. Lunches feature Ottolenghi-worthy salads, while dinners span Indonesian, Mediterranean and Middle-Eastern cuisine – served with their own olive oil and natural wine.

Between meals, we wander the grounds, flop in deck chairs and hammocks staring out to snow-capped peaks, and work on our pieces. One of the group – me – makes an ugly olive dish, which looks like a flower that’s been stamped on. Others craft impressive vases, plates, cups, trays and bird feeders.

The workshop is well structured and flows naturally. Each part feels like a therapeutic technique. Foraging becomes my grounding ritual. Processing clay by removing impurities echoes filtering out negative beliefs. Deep discussions replace the rawness of therapy. And nutritious meals, quality sleep and abundant nature restore the soul.

Over the days, my mind quietens. It’s not a resounding silence. I’m not cured from the mental health issues that have plagued me for two decades, but I feel calmer. I’m attuned to the hum of bees and the crunch of stones underfoot. Inconveniences morph into joyful moments: getting stuck behind a farmer herding goats on a winding mountain road, having no phone signal anywhere, and being woken by the local church choir.

The four-day workshop culminates in a final ritual, where we fire up the handbuilt kiln and load it with our pieces. Between shifts gathering sticks and stoking the fire, we take turns dipping in the pool.

After sunset, Laura makes a pizza while Nina glides around with homemade wine and jugs of shrub – a refreshing drink made from fruit and vinegar.

Perching on hay bales, swigging wine and sharing stories, we cheer as the kiln’s temperature hits its century milestones, before reaching a high of 917F (492C). Sealing the oven, Milena and Julia chant a symbolic blessing, “protectora, ponle lo que falta y quitale lo que le sobra”, roughly translated to, “protector, provide us with what we lack and remove what isn’t needed”, before we retire to bed.

The next morning, we gather around the kiln and remove bricks, one by one. There’s no telling what’s survived: the fire decides. Perhaps a final reminder that acceptance and letting go is part of the process. Cheers erupt and compliments are exchanged as the first pieces emerge intact.

As we say our goodbyes, one member of the group leaves us with a final moment of reflection. “Honestly, I didn’t really care what mine turned out like. It didn’t matter if it cracked or exploded. I just enjoyed the process and would’ve accepted whatever happened.”

The retreat was provided by Las Mecias and Tierra de Arcillas, which offer three-night, four-day introduction to wild clay workshops, including accommodation, three dinners, three breakfasts and two lunches, and over 15 hours of theory and practical instruction. Prices from €580, based on a shared stay in a yurt with an outside bathroom. The next workshop is 16-19 October; 2026 dates to be announced late in October

Chester’s city walls are the oldest, longest, and most complete city walls in Britain – and they are completely free to walk around

There’s only one English city that can boast the most complete city walls in the country, where visitors can stroll their entire length – two miles of history and ancient charm just a stone’s throw away.

These are considered the oldest, longest, and most complete city walls in Britain. The initial parts of the walls were erected by the Romans, and later they were expanded and developed during the Saxon (10th century) and Norman (12th century) eras.

However, from the 18th century onwards, the walls were no longer required for defence and were transformed into a popular public walkway and tourist hotspot. You can traverse the full length of the Roman Wall, which is open all year round and free to access.

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The route includes four main gateways: Northgate, Eastgate, Watergate and Bridgegate and with a few well-deserved rest stops along the way, it can be completed in a couple of hours.

Best of all, it’s completely free to access the walls’ walkway at any time. However, there is a small fee if you wish to join an organised tour, which departs from the Town Hall Visitor Information Centre and lasts approximately 90 minutes.

Of course, we’re talking about Chester City Walls, which encircle a small rectangular area in the very heart of this stunning historic city. The Grade I listed walls are the best preserved city walls in Britain and encompass the site of the medieval city, reports the Express.

A footpath runs atop the walls, with only a small 100-metre section incomplete. As you stroll along, you’ll have the opportunity to take in Chester’s many attractions, including the castle, cathedral, and racecourse.

The city is dotted with historic sites and eateries where you can extend your day out. The trail follows the paved path on top of the walls. Historically, many significant towns and cities were fortified by walls, but today, only Chester boasts a complete circuit around the city. Throughout the Middle Ages, Chester was one of the most fortified and strategically crucial cities in the county.

Over time, these walls have been continuously modified, repaired and occasionally attacked. One reason they still stand today is that from the 18th century onwards, they were no longer required for defence and were transformed into a fashionable walkway and public amenity.

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Some of the historic sites visible from the walls include the Cathedral, the King Charles Tower, the Roman Amphitheatre, the Eastgate Clock, the River Dee and the city’s unique Rows. The 12th-century Agricola Tower served as the first stone gateway to Chester Castle, which was established by William the Conqueror in 1070. The South-west part of the city also deserves a mention.

All restoration work on the walls requires approval from Historic England. In 2020, a portion of Chester’s City Walls crumbled near the renowned Eastgate Clock, with repair efforts currently ongoing. Several tragic incidents have occurred with people plummeting from the walls, so exercise caution!

Over 400 years ago, in 1615, William Webb described it as “a very delectable walk, feeding the eye, with the sweet gardens and fine buildings of the city.” Much more recently, one local resident described the route they like to take when walking the walls. Speaking on TripAdvisor they said: “I always start at the East Gate because it’s the first part of the wall I get to when I walk from the railway station.”

They added: “I then go around the walls clockwise. After about 150 metres, you can then come down off the walls and see the amphitheatre and Roman Gardens. Then further around is the river; but I don’t usually get past Bridgegate because I come off the wall there and go in to the Bear & Billet pub!”

Fifty years ago, I headed north for the first time. I’d dropped out of my university literature course – with the arrogance of youth, I thought I could read books anywhere. After a chance meeting in a Putney pub, I got a job as assistant cook in the Bird Observatory in Fair Isle. At that point, I didn’t even know where Fair Isle was. I came from Devon and hadn’t made it farther north than Durham. Scotland was unknown territory.

Of course, Fair Isle is part of the Shetland group and lies halfway between Shetland mainland and Orkney. That summer, I fell in love with the Northern Isles, with the romance of the isolation, the bleak beauty and the stories. Over the summer, I worked in the observatory with Alison, an Orcadian lass, who was there for her college holidays. “When you’ve finished your contract,” she said with the easy hospitality of islanders everywhere, “why don’t you come and stay? It’s kind of on your way home.”

It kind of was, and so I did. Alison lived with her parents in a solid house on the outskirts of Kirkwall. After my nine-month stay on Fair Isle – three miles long and a mile and a half wide, a scattering of crofts, 50 people and a lot of sheep and seabirds – Kirkwall felt like civilisation. There was a beautiful cathedral, a street of shops and bars, schools and a hospital. What struck me most, though, were the views. Much of Orkney mainland is low and green, and there are lochs so big that a stranger might think they were looking at the sea. So, there are long vistas from land to water and then land again. And more water. All under a huge sky.

At that time, Alison was more into partying than history, so I didn’t do a lot of sightseeing. We went to a dance at the Harray community hall, and I drank too much. There was little communication with the locals there. I’d become used to a Shetland voice, but an Orkney accent is quite different, lilting, musical, almost Welsh. I missed much of what was said to me.

Later, I got the plane to London, on my way home. If Kirkwall had seemed big, London with its towering buildings was overwhelming, and I scuttled west on the train to be on the coast again.

Over the years, I’ve come to know Orkney better. My husband and I went to Alison’s wedding in the cathedral. She was magnificent in a grand white dress, and she sailed up the aisle to Chariots of Fire. That evening there was another party, only a little more sedate than the Harray dance. Drink was passed round in the traditional Orkney way, in a wooden bowl, known as the cog, created for the purpose. I’m not sure what was in it, but it was warm, and it packed a punch.

At other times, we stayed with friends who lived in a converted chapel, looking down to the Stones of Stenness. Just as there’s always a view of water in Orkney, there’s always a reminder of its neolithic past, and I would come to explore the islands’ history more deeply when I was researching my latest novel, The Killing Stones.

Over time, we explored some of the smaller islands: Hoy with its dramatic cliffs, the tiny island of Papa Westray, home to the Knap of Howar, the oldest domestic stone dwelling in Northern Europe, and North Ronaldsay, where we stayed in the Bird Observatory’s accommodation, a reminder of the work that first took me north. North Ronaldsay is surrounded by a stone dyke, not to keep animals in, but to keep them out on the shore. The island sheep have adapted to living on seaweed, and perhaps because of that the meat is delicious.

For years though, Shetland was the focus of my trips north. One of my best friends lives there, and I was still writing the Jimmy Perez books, adapted for television as Shetland. In 2018, I decided to finish the series with the novel Wild Fire. I didn’t think I could find anything fresh to say about a community of only 23,000 people. I’d already killed too many of them.

The book ends with Perez and his partner moving south to Orkney. Perhaps I was influenced by a real police inspector, who covered both sets of islands and made the move. Certainly, I had no intention of writing about Perez again.

More recently, I felt a longing to go north again in my fiction, a kind of homesickness for the islands, for the dark winters and the bright, light summers. For the dramatic contrast between long, clear horizons and secrets hidden in small communities. I remembered that first image of Orkney, the stretches of land and water, and I realised it was time to go back. After all, to explore Perez’s new life, I’d have to stay there. It’s small details that bring a book to life, and Google research can’t help with that.

I stayed with my friend Stewart in his rather grand house on Orkney mainland. He became my driver, fixer and human research. I’d met him first when he worked for Orkney libraries. We’d had book-related adventures together – flying into North Ronaldsay in the eight-seater plane to celebrate the anniversary of a scheme that brought book boxes to islanders, and a crazy attempt to set a record by doing 24 events on 24 of the Northern Isles in 24 hours. We met the challenge, but only with the support of library staff in Orkney and Shetland, and the help of other writers.

My research visit took place in December 2023. It was clear, still and very cold. The frost didn’t melt all day. Stewart took me to the island of Westray, where he grew up and his family still farms. We stayed in the Pierowall Hotel, which features in the novel, and explored the site of the abandoned Noltland dig near Grobust Bay. I talked to his parents and to volunteers in the Heritage Centre. The book wouldn’t have been written without their help.

Back on Orkney mainland, we explored Kirkwall and Stromness and drove south across the Churchill Barriers, the causeways built between islands after a German U-boat entered Scapa Flow in 1939 and sank HMS Royal Oak. I was met everywhere with kindness and the most useful information. The pattern of the book was starting to take shape.

I ended my stay with an almost mystical experience. Maeshowe is a neolithic burial chamber. Entry is through a low, narrow tunnel positioned so that at the winter solstice, as the sun sets behind the hills of Hoy, the light floods in. There aren’t many entirely cloudless winter dusks in Orkney, but we were lucky enough to experience the magic. In the chamber, first a trickle of apparently liquid gold ran across the floor, then it grew wider and wider until it flooded the entire space with light. As the sun set, all was dark again.

I believe that setting is more than a pretty backdrop to the action. It informs character and moves the action of the plot. The Killing Stones couldn’t have been set anywhere other than Orkney, and I couldn’t have written it without spending time there with Orcadians.

The Killing Stones by Ann Cleeves is published by Pan Macmillan at £22. To support the Guardian, order your copy at guardianbookshop.com. Delivery charges may apply

The spa town beat the likes of Stratford-upon-Avon and Anglesey to the top spot of best staycations in the UK, and it’s not hard to see why.

If you’re keen to get away this autumn but don’t want to venture too far, there are so many beautiful spots in the UK to choose from – with one in particular being very worth a visit.

Harrogate, a picturesque town in North Yorkshire, was crowned the best staycation spot in the UK. Just a two-hour drive from Greater Manchester, Harrogate beat out competition from Stratford-upon-Avon and Anglesey to claim the top spot.

Staycations have surged in popularity as Brits discover the wealth of beauty spots on their doorstep. With this in mind, AA experts analysed the top staycation destinations that are perfect for a road trip.

They considered factors such as accommodation options, local happiness ratings, availability of car parking spaces, petrol stations, and EV chargers to compile the “ultimate top 10 locations for the perfect staycation”.

The spa town of Harrogate came out on top, boasting the highest ‘happiness rating’, 7.8 out of 10, and the most activities (62), reports the Express.

The town is famed for its stunning architecture, the renowned Betty’s Cafe and Tea Rooms, RHS Harlow Carr gardens and much more. Surrounded by breathtaking countryside, there’s plenty to explore nearby, including the Brimham Rocks beauty spot. This year, it was also named as the third poshest town in the UK by The Telegraph.

Harrogate gained popularity in the 19th century as a health resort thanks to its mineral-rich spring waters.

Today, Harrogate seamlessly blends historic charm with modern touches, making it a favourite destination for visitors and residents alike.

Valley Gardens is a must-see in the town, boasting a beautiful park filled with a variety of flowers, walking paths, and remnants of the town’s renowned spa waters.

Another highlight is the Royal Pump Room Museum, which provides a glimpse into Harrogate’s spa history, showcasing the town’s evolution as a health resort.

Not to be overlooked, Stratford-upon-Avon came in second place with a happiness rating of 7.6, over 6,000 parking spaces, and more than 60 attractions.

Famed as Shakespeare’s birthplace, it offers pretty walks and historical sites such as the Royal Shakespeare Theatre.

Cornwall’s Newquay clinched third place, offering 326 AA-approved accommodations, over 3,500 parking spots, and a happiness rating of 7.5.