This tunnel is famous for its beautiful lighting and top air quality.
13:13, 07 Jul 2026Updated 08:05, 12 Jul 2026
The blue-lit roundabout inside the 7.5 km Laerdal Tunnel(Image: Getty)
Norway has no shortage of beautiful roads. From snow capped mountains to glacial passes, a road trip through this gorgeous country means you will never be bored. It’s not just open road though – Norway is also home to one of the most beautiful tunnels in the world.
The Lærdal tunnel in West Norway is the longest road tunnel in the world, stretching 24.5 kilometres (15 miles) beneath a mountain range. It connects Aurland and Lærdal, in the heart of Sogn, and provides a ferry-free connection between Oslo and Bergen.
Construction of the tunnel began in 1995 and finished in 2000 and during construction an incredible 2,500,000 cubic meters of rock were extracted from the tunnel.
It cost a whopping £75million to construct. The tunnel is divided into four sections separated by three large caves.
The tunnel is known as one of the most beautiful in the world due to the way it has been designed to prevent driver fatigue and claustrophobia.
The main section of the tunnel is brightly lit with white lights, but each cave is lit with blue and yellow lighting around the edges to create the illusion of a sunrise.
These caves were lit with the idea of breaking up the monotony of the tunnel and allow drivers a short break.
The caves also work as turnaround points during the 20-minute journey.
There is also a rumble strip in each lane which stops drivers becoming inattentive and drifting.
At every kilometre, a sign lets you know how far you have travelled through the cave and how much further you have to go.
One of the other impressive things about the Lærdal Tunnel is that it is the first in the world to be equipped with an air treatment plant.
This plant can be found in a cavern 100 metres wide and it removes both dust and nitrogen dioxide from the tunnel air.
Emmerdale stars Matthew Wolfenden and Roxy Shahidi suffered big losses on BBC’s Celebrity Antiques Road Trip
22:28, 09 Jul 2026Updated 22:48, 09 Jul 2026
Emmerdale star’s shock after staggering loss on Antiques Road Trip ‘we were robbed’(Image: BBC)
An Emmerdale icon suffered a massive financial loss during an episode of Celebrity Antiques Road Trip, leaving their co-star thoroughly unimpressed.
In a repeated episode of the BBC programme, originally broadcast in 2024, Matthew Wolfenden and Roxy Shahidi searched the Yorkshire Dales for antique treasures with the assistance of experts Hettie Jago and Steven Moore, hoping to turn a profit.
After spending money on various items, the auction arrived – but things went disastrously wrong for both Matthew, who portrayed Davide Metcalfe on the soap, and Leyla Harding actress Roxy. Matthew’s vintage stereoscope was first, which he’d purchased for £20, but disappointingly fetched just £7.
Next came Roxy, hoping her Derbyshire pietra dura paperweight – bought for £15 – would command an impressive sum. “If this doesn’t make a profit we were robbed because that’s worth at least £100,” Roxy’s expert Steven declared.
Sadly it sold for merely £14. A devastated Stephen confessed: “I need therapy,” while Roxy watched in disbelief.
Matters deteriorated further for the soap pair when bidding commenced on Matthew’s Art Deco rouge pot, purchased for £90. The opening bid was £10, prompting Matthew to gasp “oh no,” before it eventually sold for a paltry £16, reports the Express.
Matthew’s astonished teammate Hettie was left open-mouthed, while a stunned Matthew exclaimed: “I’m gobsmacked!” Meanwhile, Roxy’s final item was a magic lantern, which they had splashed out a whopping £236 on. Sadly, it failed to generate the interest she had anticipated.
The lantern fetched a mere £30 at auction. Upon hearing the outcome, Matthew couldn’t resist a cheeky dig at his former soap co-star Roxy, chuckling away as Hettie told her: “I’m so sorry.”
When the auction wrapped up, the final tallies revealed who had come out on top financially. Roxy and Steven ended up making a loss of £284.38, meaning Matthew and Hettie were crowned the victors, having incurred a smaller loss of £225.46.
Afterwards, a triumphant Matthew teased Roxy: “Can you see the smile on my face?” Roxy replied: “Yeah I can see it.”
Matthew added: “Why’s that?” With gritted teeth Roxy said: “That’s because you won…” as Matthew erupted in celebration.
Looking to hire a car for your summer holiday? Which? has put together a ranking of some of the best and worst car hire firms, including those that have the most hidden fees and the ones likely to keep you waiting at the airport
Hiring a car gives you freedom on holiday(Image: Getty Images)
Hiring a car can be an excellent way to explore somewhere new, but a recent survey by Which? Has revealed that one in eight car hire customers end up paying more than they expected to get on the road.
The consumer magazine surveyed over 3,600 people who’d hired a car in the past two years, asking a range of questions about their experience with customer service, value for money, ease of car pick-up and drop-off, and clarity around the overall cost.
Shockingly, 13% of participants in the survey ended up paying more than the price that they were quoted, showing that extras aren’t always made clear when customers are booking. These included surcharges for drivers over 70 and extra insurance costs that weren’t in the headline price.
Third from the bottom of the rankings was car hire giant Avis, a fixture at airports and other transport hubs. It has over 50 branches across the UK and thousands more across the world. While Avis scored highly for accurate descriptions, quality vehicles, and quick returns, it only scored two stars out of five for collection speed, and the clarity of its costs and conditions. With an average rental price of £55, it’s also far from being the cheapest option. Avis declined to comment.
Second from the bottom was Dollar, owned by the same parent company as Hertz, which also scored well for having accurate vehicle descriptions, easy-to-find locations, and easy returns. However, it received two-star scores when it came to collection speed and three stars for overall value for money.
When approached for comment, a Hertz spokesperson said: “We welcome feedback and are committed to providing a clear and transparent booking experience for our customers. Key information – including rates, inclusions, rental requirements and additional driver policies – is displayed throughout the reservation process and is available for review before payment.
“All Hertz customers also have access to a no-fee additional driver option through our free Gold+ Rewards loyalty program, which allows members to add a spouse or domestic partner at no additional charge.”
Coming in last in Which?’s survey was Goldcar. 28% of renters told Which? they had received additional charges, some of which weren’t deducted until after they returned home. Nearly a fifth of respondents said they had to queue for 30 minutes or longer to collect their car, also giving them two stars for customer service. One survey respondent said: “The risk of post-contract extras outweighs the cheaper price. Avoid at all costs.”
A spokesperson for Goldcar said: “Goldcar Spain is, of course, disappointed that the alleged experiences have been identified by Which? Travel. With regard to insurance cover, the company offers premium cover to provide a seamless process should damage occur during a customer’s rental. A customer, of course, has the right to choose to buy their cover separately; however, if this is the case, they will be charged for any damages that occur during the rental and will then need to claim the costs back from the chosen provider.
“Whilst the company has not been given the opportunity to see the footage referred to by Which? Travel is committed to investigating any incidents where a customer believes they have received service that does not match expectations for a low-cost brand.
“The company introduced a Code of Ethics for counter sales and a Guide of Good Sales Practices in 2021, both of which are reviewed annually based on customer feedback about their sales experience. If an employee breaches the Code of Ethics, they are immediately warned and penalised economically and if breaches are repeated they can be subject to termination of their contract.”
At the top of the rankings was Autoreisen, a Canary Islands-based car hire company that received five stars across all categories, despite also being the cheapest on average at £16 a day. It was named as a Which? Recommended Provider alongside the UK’s Arnold Clark, and the worldwide brand Alamo.
Arnold Clark was also the only UK rental firm that was awarded five stars for clarity of costs. One satisfied customer said: “There was no time shilly-shallying and no problem hiring in my age group (82). I was in and out in no time and dropped off back at my home.”
Guy Hobbs, head of travel research for Which?, said: “Too often we hear from holidaymakers who have faced poor customer service and unexpected charges that turn a seemingly cheap rental into an expensive one.
“The good news is that some firms show it doesn’t have to be this way. To get the best experience this summer, travellers should choose a reputable provider. Our Which? Recommended Providers are all excellent options, and using a trusted broker such as Zest Car Rental can provide extra reassurance and support if any issues arise.”
Which?’s rankings for best and worst car hire firms for 2026
Autoreisen
Cicar
Arnold Clark
Alamon
TopCar
Centauro
Enterprise
Sixt
Drivalia
Europcar
Thrifty
Budget
Hertz
Avis
Dollar
Goldcar
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The summer holidays are almost upon us. And whether you’re planning to stay at home or travel further afield, family adventure expert Conor Carter shares his advice for stress-free fun
09:01, 02 Jul 2026Updated 09:02, 02 Jul 2026
Whether it’s a local trail, a coastal walk or a weekend somewhere new, a bit of preparation can turn an ordinary day into a proper adventure(Image: Shared Content Unit)
Adventure doesn’t have to mean climbing the highest mountain, buying all the gear or travelling for hours before the day has even begun. Often, the best summer adventures are the ones that feel simple enough to actually do. Conor Carter, known as ConorHikes on Instagram and a member of the Dacia Adventure Community, has amassed over 200k followers offering advice on the best places to go, and how to make the outdoors feel accessible. Whether it’s a local trail, a coastal walk or a weekend somewhere new, a bit of preparation can turn an ordinary day into a proper adventure. Here are his tips for getting started this summer.
Start with what’s nearby
You don’t need to go far to find a good route. Look for circular walks, country parks, canals, hills, forests or coastal paths within easy reach. Starting close to home keeps the pressure off, especially if you’re new to hiking or getting out there.
Pick the right route
Be realistic about distance, terrain and who’s coming with you. A shorter route with a great view, café stop or somewhere to paddle can be more enjoyable than pushing through a walk that’s too long.
Check the basics
Look at the weather, parking, facilities and how clearly marked the route is. Download a map or screenshot key details before setting off, especially where phone signal may disappear.
Pack properly
British summer can be unpredictable, so take water, snacks, sun cream, a waterproof layer, comfortable footwear and a fully-charged phone. A small first aid kit is worth carrying, too. Being prepared means you can relax and enjoy the day.
Leave room for spontaneity
Some of the best moments happen when you’re not rushing: an unexpected viewpoint, a quiet beach, a village pub, or a path that looks too good not to follow. Build in extra time so the day can unfold naturally.
Make space for the right kit
Walking boots, rucksacks, layers, food, camping gear or beach kit can quickly fill a car. A practical, spacious car such as the Dacia Bigster helps make it easier to bring what you need without overthinking the day.
Respect the outdoors
Take litter home, stick to marked paths where needed, close gates and give wildlife space. And while photos are brilliant for remembering a day out, try not to experience the whole thing through a screen. Take the picture, then put the phone away and enjoy where you are.
Narin Flanders hit le road with her family, stopping off at Disneyland and Eurocamp as part of a tour of the country that began with Brittany Ferries and ended with Le Shuttle
Writer Narin Flanders took her family on a road trip through France for half term instead of flying and was surprised by many of the perks(Image: Narin Flanders)
There are plenty of good reasons to swap flying for a driving holiday this summer: airline prices are creeping up, airport strikes are planned in several European hub cities and rumblings about jet fuel availability with the ongoing issues in the Strait of Hormuz.
However, why my family and I finally took the plunge, after months of reading about roadtrips online, was a reason much closer to home. As a family of four allergic to the concept of travelling light, the idea of being able to fill our Kia Sportage with everyone’s (admittedly often non-essential) essentials and travel to a few different places in one trip was a tempting prospect.
So we took the plunge and put together an itinerary, including a bit of something for everybody. We started by getting on a Brittany Ferry at Portsmouth, travelling five hours to Caen and then two hours cross-country to a Eurocamp in Domaine des Ormes, Brittany.
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We started with four days of Center Parcs style, living at a fraction of the price of a hotel. Swimming, ziplines, and playgrounds were aplenty (along with unlimited wifi – it wasn’t all Swallows and Amazons ). Then we meandered across to Le Mans as a treat for my husband and I, who are both major racing fans.
From the hallowed tarmac, we headed towards the capital to visit Disneyland Paris. After two full days at the European House of the Mouse, soaking up the new Adventure World Park as well as fulfilling all my son’s and my Marvel nerd dreams, we took Le Shuttle home.
While we were definitely nervous about driving abroad, what I realised quickly was that Gemini could answer lots of questions and even help plot the itinerary, right down to recommending great towns between our main destinations with things to do with the kids.
Planning ahead allowed us to get organised with essentials. In France, there’s a lot to consider to stay road legal. All cars driving in France need to have a safety kit in the boot in case of an emergency by law. They’re easily bought from Amazon for around £20, although make sure to buy extra high viz jackets if needed – everyone in the car needs their own.
Meanwhile, an Emovis tag is a £9 Bluetooth gadget that you can place on your dashboard and then just drive through tolls and be billed afterwards. It arrived in the UK in plenty of time for our trip, and we loved not having to faff with coins or payment cards at tolls along the way.
Cars driving in major cities that have been designated low-emission zones also need a Crit’Air sticker. These cost €4.71 (£4) including delivery and can be ordered from the French transport ministry – although beware the scam sites that come up on Google suggesting you order through them at a higher price. Cars without a Crit’Air can be fined €68, so if you think you’re going to stray into low-emission zones, it’s worth getting one for peace of mind.
While, of course, driving in France involves getting used to being on the wrong side of the road, once we were actually there, the experience was largely stress-free. I’d say French drivers are better at using motorways properly than we are – middle lane hogs didn’t seem to be much of a thing.
There are some differences, though. Notably, the responsibility for drivers to give way to cars joining the motorway, so remembering to move over took some getting used to. We were relieved to find Google Maps worked effectively everywhere we went, so it’s definitely worth paying for roaming data or picking up a temporary SIM from brands like Lebara or Smarty that include it free.
While a driving holiday was slightly out of our comfort zone, it turned into a fun family adventure we’d absolutely do again.
As well as the joys of the individual stops – and surprise diversions along the way, including discovering an unassuming restaurant with steak frites so epic it has become the stuff of family legend – we found, much to my surprise, that the time spent in the car watching the French landscape go by became part of the fun.
At home we’d be firmly in ‘are we there yet?’ territory, but a family Spotify playlist sharing our favourite songs and regular stops at French petrol stations for snacks made the drive as much a part of the adventure as everything else.
Book it
Narin stayed at the Domaine des Ormes Eurocamp. Currently, a four night stay for a two bedroom lodge through Eurocamp starting on Monday, July 20 is £975. For the October half term, Eurocamp is £289.64 for four nights.
The UK has an incredible range of places to camp, from national parks to unspoilt coastline, so where should you pitch your tent or drive your motorhome this summer? Research has shown the ultimate spot to enjoy the great outdoors
10:04, 19 Jun 2026Updated 10:04, 19 Jun 2026
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The county has several stunning camping locations(Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
A ‘Summer on a Shoestring Index’ has been created to show the best-value money places to camp in the upcoming months, and the winning destination has some of the country’s best beaches as well as inexpensive spots to pitch up.
Devon beat competition from Cornwall, the Scottish Highlands, and many other beautiful UK regions to be named the UK’s best-value destination for a campervan staycation this summer.
The index, put together by Camplify UK, took into account factors including the price per day for a caravan pitch, tourist board ratings, nearby activities, and the proximity of inexpensive places to eat. Devon also topped the list thanks to its number of National Trust Properties, Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and National Parks, all of which offer inexpensive days out for families.
Camping pitches in Devon can be found for as little as £14 a night, and according to Camplify 85% of campsites in the county offer stays for under £20 a night while still maintaining a rating of at least 8.5. For rural escapes, Dartmoor National Park is an incredible choice, offering untamed open moorland and deep river valleys where wild ponies roam.
Devon destinations include the beach towns of Woolacombe and Croyde, and National Trust sites such as Baggy Point and Lydford Gorge make for inexpensive days out. There’s also the North Devon National Landscape to explore, an area of outstanding natural beauty that includes rocky coves, waterfalls, and soft sand dunes.
A recent ranking of the Best Beaches in Europe for 2026 included three in Devon. These included Woolacombe Beach at number 8, which beat beaches in the Canaries and Portugal to get a top ten ranking. Trebarwith Beach came in at number 17, while Bigbury Beach in South Devon ranked at 23.
Coming second on Camplify’s list was neighbouring county Cornwall, which also has lots of free and inexpensive days out for families. Like Devon, its also known for its spectacular beaches, with some compared to the Caribbean. Kynance Cove on the Lizard Peninsula, as its turquoise waters and white sands could easily be found on a far-flung island.
For outdoorsy breaks, Cornwall is famous for surfing, especially towns such as Newquay whose beaches are considered some of the best in the UK in which to catch a wave.
Rounding off the top three was the Scottish Highlands, the perfect spot for camping among wild scenery, and waking up to views of mountains and glacial valleys. You’ll find plenty of well-equipped campsites in the region, although unlike England, wild camping is legal in Scotland if you’re in a small tent and ensure you leave no trace when you pack up the next day.
Those camping in motorhomes or bringing caravans still need to ensure they book a pitch at a campsite or other designated area. Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) offer a stay the night scheme, where self-contained campers can park cheaply overnight in their car parks, with spaces on a first come, first served basis..
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Car hire is at its peak over summer, with people using them to travel around the UK and beyond. And getting it right is easy with a bit of knowhow, says travel expert Jamie Holt
Car hire is a task completed by Brits in their hundreds of thousands every summer(Image: Getty)
Hiring a car is not particularly sexy nor glamorous – but it’s a task completed by Brits in their hundreds of thousands every summer. “We’re seeing families prioritise flexibility and convenience more than ever, whether that’s for a summer holiday abroad or a UK staycation,” says Jamie Holt, SIXT’s Head of Operations and Resident Travel Expert. “Whether it’s a week in Cornwall, a weekend in the Lake District, or driving straight from the airport to a resort abroad, people want the journey itself to feel easy and enjoyable.” Here he shares his top tips for getting it right.
Don’t leave it too late
Jamie says: “Summer is always busy, and family-friendly vehicles – SUVs, estates and 7-seaters- get booked up first, particularly during school holidays. Booking early gives you more choice, better value and the right vehicle for your trip. It’s also worth being realistic about space: once you add luggage, pushchairs and everything else, a slightly larger car makes the whole journey more comfortable.”
Embrace flexibility
Jamie says: “My biggest tip is to embrace the flexibility a car gives you – stop at a beach on the way down, visit smaller villages that are harder to reach by train, and avoid the pressure of fixed schedules. Make sure you plan for busy roads during peak weekends: setting off slightly earlier or later than the main rush makes a real difference. Keeping snacks, entertainment and chargers easily accessible helps too. We’re seeing more families turn short UK breaks into proper road trip experiences.”
Understand local rules when abroad
Jamie says: “Book in advance, especially in popular destinations where availability drops quickly in summer. Make sure you understand the local driving rules before you travel – speed limits, road signs and right-of-way rules can vary significantly. Check what’s included in your rental: unlimited kilometres, protection options and 24/7 breakdown assistance make a big difference abroad. And always take five minutes to familiarise yourself with the vehicle, the navigation system and local road apps before you set off.”
Book the right car for you
Jamie says: “Comfort and practicality should come first. People focus on price, but choosing the right vehicle completely changes the experience. At SIXT, we specialise in premium vehicles, so customers can expect a comfortable drive from the moment they collect the car. For summer, whether you’re heading on a UK road trip or hiring abroad, SUVs and larger family vehicles are popular because they offer the room and comfort that longer journeys demand. Think beyond getting from A to B; the journey should feel like part of the holiday.”
Take five minutes before setting off
Jamie says: “It makes a real difference, especially when driving somewhere unfamiliar or abroad. Before anything else, do a full walk-around of the car and take photos and videos – it only takes a moment and gives you peace of mind for the journey ahead. Check the navigation system, phone connectivity, charging points and child seat fittings before leaving the branch. Test how luggage fits in the boot rather than assuming it will all squeeze in later. Travel days can already feel hectic during summer, so a little preparation upfront helps everything run more smoothly.”
Plan, plan, plan
Jamie says: “Extra planning goes a long way during peak season. Whether you’re collecting from an airport, heading off on a staycation or navigating busy roads, giving yourself extra time helps. Keep an eye on live traffic updates and avoid the busiest routes where you can. If you’re travelling with children, build regular breaks into the journey. Hiring a car through SIXT already takes a lot off your plate – with flexible booking, 24/7 support and out-of-hours returns, families can focus on enjoying the trip.”
Hire straight from the airport
Jamie says: “Hiring straight from the airport removes unnecessary stress. After a flight, the last thing you want is to navigate train connections or wait for taxis with lots of luggage. Having a car ready means you continue your journey comfortably and on your own schedule – especially useful in destinations abroad where public transport is limited. We also see strong demand for same-day and short-notice bookings during summer, so flexibility is built in for when plans change.”
Look beyond the headline price
Jamie says: “Features like unlimited kilometres, vehicle protection and 24/7 breakdown assistance make a huge difference, particularly for families driving long distances or abroad. Adding an extra driver for longer trips is also worth considering – sharing the driving makes the experience more relaxed, especially with children. And for UK staycations, you can often book and collect from city centres and local branches, not just airports.”
Think about the journey as part of the holiday…
…”not just the transport,” says Jamie. “The smoother the travel day, the better the trip starts for everyone. Booking early not only gives you the widest choice of vehicle categories – it’s also where you’ll find the best rates, with SIXT’s prepay option offering great value and transparent pricing with no hidden fees. At SIXT, we’re making it easier than ever to hit the road – browse the premium fleet at sixt.co.uk or download the SIXT app to book from our nationwide network including city centres such as London, Manchester, and airports including Heathrow, Gatwick, Edinburgh and many more. SIXT gives people the freedom to travel on their own schedule, make spontaneous stops, and avoid the stress of crowded stations or peak-time public transport.”
A survey of 2,000 UK adults has named the best staycation destinations for 2026, with Cornwall’s St Ives retaining the top spot and Northumberland’s Bamburgh making a surprise new entry into the rankings
This Northumberland coastal village made a surprise entry(Image: Getty Images)
Britain’s top staycation destinations for 2026 have been unveiled, with Cornwall’s St Ives claiming the number one spot yet again and the Northumberland village of Bamburgh securing second place as a fresh addition to the rankings.
The yearly staycation report, drawn from a survey of 2,000 adults, showed that Bourton-on-the-Water and Salcombe have grown in popularity, while other coastal hotspots also experienced shifts in the standings. Brighton overtook Lyme Regis, climbing to sixth place, ahead of the Dorset town, which has moved from fifth last year to seventh.
The study, commissioned by Sykes Holiday Cottages, discovered that 38% intend to take their main holiday within the UK this year, climbing to 53% amongst Gen Z. This is up from 34% of adults who said the same last year, while Gen Z’s appetite for UK holidays has increased from 45% in 2025.
James Shaw, chief commercial officer at the holiday brand which launched the annual Staycation Index Report, said: “The continued popularity of UK breaks demonstrates that staycations remain a key part of how Brits holiday.
“More people are choosing to stay at home and prioritising value, flexibility and reassurance when planning time away, particularly amid ongoing uncertainty around overseas travel.
“What’s especially notable this year is the growing influence of younger travellers, Gen Z is increasingly embracing UK holidays, with more people opting for experience-led trips that combine scenery, food, culture and the chance to explore multiple destinations in one break.
“From seaside towns and national parks to countryside retreats, the UK continues to offer an enormous variety of holiday experiences, and that’s reflected in the strength and diversity of destinations featured in this year’s rankings.”
The study revealed that 64% are planning to — or have considered — a multi-destination road trip, stopping off at an average of three locations. Coastal spots are the most sought after, followed by rural areas and national parks.
Tourist attractions (48%) were also a deciding factor when choosing where to visit, alongside locations with fond memories (38%) and positive reviews and ratings (35%).
Of those hoping for a break in the UK, 48% said it’s simply the time they have to switch off and relax.
The study, conducted via OnePoll, found 14% have been swayed by a film or TV show, with Peaky Blinders proving the most influential following its film release this year (11%), set in Birmingham.
Similarly, Northern Ireland, home of the Game of Thrones prequel, House of the Dragon; and Northumberland, which was a location for Jurassic World, were also popular choices.
James Shaw, added: “For many people, holidays remain one of the most important opportunities in the year to properly switch off and spend quality time together, even as budgets remain under pressure.
“What this research highlights is that UK travel continues to appeal because it offers both convenience and variety – whether that’s a coastal escape, a countryside road trip or revisiting places that hold personal memories.
“We’re also seeing more travellers embrace flexible, multi-stop breaks, with people increasingly keen to experience more of what the UK has to offer in a single trip.”
TOP 50 UK STAYCATIONS
St Ives (Cornwall)
Bamburgh (Northumberland Coast)
Ambleside (Lake District)
Grasmere (Lake District)
Robin Hood’s Bay (North Yorkshire Coast)
Brighton (East Sussex)
Lyme Regis (Dorset – Jurassic Coast)
Bakewell (Peak District)
Salcombe (Devon)
Bourton-on-the-Water (Cotswolds)
Alnwick (Northumberland)
Lerwick (Shetland)
Tenby (Pembrokeshire)
Conwy (North Wales)
Fort William (Gateway to Ben Nevis & the Highlands)
New research shows where and when will be most dangerous for motorists this Bank Holiday weekend
12:59, 19 May 2026Updated 13:00, 19 May 2026
Millions of Brits will take to the roads this Bank Holiday weekend
Most motorists reckon the roads are at their most treacherous during rush hour, when traffic is bumper-to-bumper and congestion is at its peak. But with millions of Britons set to hit the road this Bank Holiday weekend, fresh research suggests the greatest danger may lurk when the roads seem at their emptiest.
Fresh analysis by Confused.com appears to reveal the single most hazardous hour to drive in the UK, with motorists being urged to steer clear of this time slot where possible over the bank holiday weekend. Drawing on Department for Transport (DfT) traffic flow and collision data, Confused.com has developed an interactive Safety Index to work out the probability of being caught up in an accident relative to the volume of vehicles on the road.
Rhydian Jones, Confused.com car insurance expert, explains why the emptiest roads can often prove the most perilous, identifies the riskiest and safest times to drive in the UK, and offers guidance on how motorists can use Confused.com’s new Safety Index tool to plan safer journeys during the bank holiday exodus.
Whether you’re heading off for a long weekend away, popping to see relatives or making your way home after a day out, understanding when collision risk peaks could help you sidestep the most dangerous times to be behind the wheel.
Why Quiet Roads Can Be More Dangerous
It appears to defy logic. Fewer vehicles should surely mean fewer crashes. But experts suggest that emptier roads often encourage more reckless driving behaviour. Almost 1 in 3 motorists (29%) acknowledge they break speed limits at least from time to time, while more than 1 in 4 (27%) admit they’re more inclined to speed when traffic is lighter. Factor in poor visibility, driver fatigue and the heightened chance of encountering drink-drivers, and the hazard increases dramatically.
“Road safety relies on more than just how many cars are on the road. It depends on how conditions evolve through the day, and our analysis makes that pattern unmistakably clear. The late afternoon sees the highest number of collisions because the roads are busy. But when we look at the risk per vehicle, it’s the late-night and early-morning hours that are proportionately the most dangerous. That’s when visibility drops, fatigue sets in and roads are quiet enough that drivers may take more risks.
We know journeys become longer, traffic becomes heavier, and weather conditions get tougher. Our research shows many drivers already feel nervous, especially at night or in unfamiliar areas, and nearly a third admit to speeding when the roads look quiet. Our interactive ‘Safety Index’ tool can help drivers make informed decisions about when they travel, reducing risk and helping them stay safer behind the wheel.” Rhydian Jones, Confused.com car insurance expert.
The analysis found that the hours with the highest collision risk relative to traffic volume are:
Sunday: 3am to 4am
Saturday: 2am to 3am
Friday: 11pm to midnight
Monday: 1am to 2am
Tuesday to Thursday: midnight to 1am
These findings suggest that the greatest danger is not necessarily when roads are busiest, but when drivers are most tired and conditions are less forgiving.
The Safest Times to Drive
By contrast, the safest times to drive are generally in the early morning. Weekdays between 5am and 7am were found to carry the lowest risk, with Wednesday 5am to 6am ranking as the safest hour of the entire week.
On weekends, the safest time shifts slightly later, with 9am to 10am emerging as the lowest-risk period. Experts believe these times are safer because traffic tends to be more predictable and speeds are generally lower.
Over Half of Drivers Have Witnessed or Experienced a Crash
The study also found that road accidents are a common experience for UK motorists.
60% of drivers have either been involved in or witnessed a road accident.
33% say the incident happened in the afternoon.
39% say they have become more cautious and aware of other drivers afterwards.
19% say they felt more nervous behind the wheel.
The emotional impact of accidents can have a lasting effect on confidence and driving behaviour.
The Driving Situations That Make People Most Nervous
The research revealed that many drivers feel uneasy in certain conditions:
26% feel most nervous on inner-city roads.
32% worry about encountering drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs at night or on weekends.
More than 1 in 3 (37%) actively avoid driving at night.
50% avoid driving in poor weather.
41% leave earlier to avoid feeling rushed.
The UK Areas with the Most Collisions
When looking at total collisions rather than risk per vehicle, the busiest crash period is 5pm to 6pm, coinciding with school pick-ups and the evening commute.
During this hour, the councils with the highest number of reported collisions were:
Kent – 265
Surrey – 215
Essex – 205
Nationally, there were 100,927 injury collisions recorded by police and logged by the Department for Transport over the last year.
Why This Hour Is So Dangerous
Several factors combine to make this the most hazardous hour of the week:
Drivers may be returning home after late nights out.
Fatigue is at its peak.
Reduced traffic can encourage speeding.
Visibility is poor.
There is a greater risk of drink-driving.
The result is a period where even a small mistake can have serious consequences.
In a bid to help motorists gain a clearer picture of road risks, Confused.com has unveiled an interactive Safety Index tool that highlights the safest and most dangerous times to drive on each day of the week.
By cross-referencing traffic volumes with collision statistics, the tool enables drivers to pinpoint lower-risk windows and make better-informed choices about when to set off.
For anyone considering a bank holiday road trip or a late-night drive home, the message couldn’t be more straightforward: quiet roads don’t necessarily mean safer roads.
From castles and coastlines to moorland views, we drove the Northumberland 250 in an electric car to see how easy it was to manage the rural route
Octavia Lillywhite Acting beauty and wellness editor
07:30, 10 May 2026
Possibly the most beautiful road trip in the country, with amazing views all along the route(Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
‘We’re driving the Northumberland 250,’ I told my husband. He looked at me cautiously.
‘It’s the most spectacular route in England, past more than 20 castles, up the Northumberland coast and over the Lindisfarne causeway – which you can only drive at low tide. Then it nips over to Scotland, to a town where Mary Queen of Scots stayed, and back down through England’s biggest forest and the UK Dark Sky Reserve, and along Hadrian’s Wall.’
‘That does actually sound brilliant,’ he said.
‘We’re doing it in an electric car so we can see how easy it is.’
‘Oh no,’ he said.
With petrol prices rocketing, a road trip feels like a luxury too far at the moment, and I liked the environmental appeal of not bringing our exhaust fumes all the way north with us. But we don’t actually have an electric car so – confident that we would find enough charging points – we borrowed one.
Our Škoda Enyaq was a nippy SUV, that made short work of brine-soaked causeways, forest track off-roading and 20% hills, even with junctions at the top (oh, hill starts with an electric engine – where have you been all my life?). It promised as much as 300 miles on a full charge but, bearing in mind that most road trips end up at at least double the loop mileage, we plotted two charging points every day, and kept our fingers crossed that they would a) be working, and b) not have petrol cars parked in them.
Electric car charging on a UK road trip: what to expect
Charging electric cars is still a bit of a lottery – slightly different at every machine. You never rock up at a petrol station forecourt and wonder, ‘how does this pump work, then?’ – but you do with chargers. Most have an app you have to download to use them, so there are moments standing in the rain trying to get signal. A saving grace is other electric car users who are amazingly helpful. Less helpful are petrol drivers who park on the charging spaces.
Charging anxiety got me once, as I poured over the map on our way to Jedburgh, where only one charger showed as working, and nothing else was reachable, but it turned out fine – it was a fast charger so we only had to wait 15 minutes for the previous car to top up before we could.
The Northumberland 250 route: castles, coast and countryside
Northumberland has so many castles. One could get castle-fatigue if they weren’t so incredibly impressive. Bamburgh makes a play for Most Spectacular Castle Anywhere. Alnwick is where Harry Potter learns to fly his Nimbus 2000. Lindisfarne is so remote it becomes an island twice a day. Most deserve at least half a day to do them (and their entrance fee) justice, so my advice is pick one or two and see the rest in passing.
Dunstanburgh was my favourite – a mighty, atmospheric ruin we saw on a sunset walk from the fishing village of Craster. It felt like going back in time – there wasn’t another soul about. But I also loved smaller, free-to-visit places like Edlingham and Twizzel. In Alnwick we skipped the castle in favour of super-sized cherry scones at the Strawberry Lounge café and at Bamburgh we marvelled at the fortress from the beach, but visited The Potted Lobster for lunch instead (one of my best decisions: the Smoked Haddock Chowder).
Holy Island (Lindisfarne) took a little planning around tide times and we arrived in a rainstorm (a rare letdown in a sunny trip). Too wet to even leave the car, we returned the next day to see it in sunshine – the causeway was worth driving four times.
Leaving the coast at Berwick-upon-Tweed I worried the best was behind us, but the drive only got more beautiful. We skipped back and forth over the Scottish border, and headed through Kielder Forest along the 12-mile off-road track, Forest Drive, then down to the wide horizons of the North Pennines.
Where to stay on the Northumberland 250: hotels, lodges and pubs
Picking our pitstops was one of the highlights of the trip. I favoured places with EV charging, but in the end, we only plugged-in for one overnight, fast-charging instead in towns where we lunched. There is a charger on Holy Island, for instance, and one at Kielder Castle – remoteness is no obstacle. I loved the pace this brought to the trip, forcing stops in places we’d normally have driven straight through. It meant we discovered little gems, like Fountain Cottage Café in Bellingham.
We stayed in the lakeside lodge at Blossom Plantation (no EV charging), and drank cava in the hot tub under the stars. The Most Northerly Hotel in England, Marshall Meadows just beyond Berwick, is a ritzy venue and country house hotel. The Pheasant Inn at Kielder Water is everything you could want from a cosy fireside pub, family run with home cooking by Robin, favouring local ingredients – some from their own garden.
I finished the trip with three revelatory resolutions. One, that Northumberland was an epic holiday destination, offering far more than you can pack into five days. Two, that driving the route in an electric car is not only possible, but adds something unexpected – a more thoughtful way to travel. And three, that my next car will be electric.
The Northumberland 250 Itinerary: 5-day trip breakdown
Day 1
Newcastle to Dunstanburgh, via Alnwick, Warksworth and Craster
Highlights and stops: Edlingham Castle (free), Alnwick town for cream tea at The Strawberry Louge, Warkworth Castle, Alnmouth village and beach, Caster village and walk to Dunstanburgh Castle.
Dunstanburgh to Berwick-up-Tweed, via Bamburgh and Lindisfarne
Highlights and stops: Holy Island causeway / Lindisfarne (first thing, due to tide times), Bamburgh Castle, beach and lighthouse, lunch at The Potted Lobster. Berwick-up-Tweed for fish and chips.
Overnight: Marshall Meadows Manor House Hotel, Scottish Border
Day 3
Berwick to Kielder Water, via Twizel, Jedburgh and the Kielder Forest Drive (with a quick return visit to Lindisfarne first thing)
Highlights and stops: Norham Castle, Kirk O’Steil church, Twizel Caslte and river walk to Twizel Viaduct, Jedburgh town, Hindhope Linn waterfall, Kielder Forest Drive
Kath Cross, 49, and her partner Stu Hall, 47, sold most of their possessions and set off on a van life adventure across Europe and beyond after Kath’s daughters moved out of the family home
A couple of drove around the world have named their favourite place(Image: Kath Cross)
A couple who flogged all their belongings to explore the globe in a van have disclosed their top destination from their remarkable journey.
Kath Cross, 49, and her partner Stu Hall, 47, chose to embark on worldwide travels after Kath’s daughters from an earlier relationship, Stephanie, 30, and Jessica, 22, had flown the nest. Following their departure, Kath came to the realisation that she could work from wherever she fancied and opted to sell much of what she owned.
Using the proceeds from flogging items on Facebook Marketplace, she and Stu purchased a van, a 7.5m Mercedes Sprinter, and set off to see the world after vacating their rented property in Cardiff, Wales.
Since departing, they’ve weathered the highs and lows of perpetual life on the move, while also lending a hand to others during their travels.
Chatting to WalesOnline, Kath and Stu, who crossed paths through a walking club, revealed which country had impressed them most during their adventure, reports the Express.
The duo have journeyed through destinations including Spain, Germany, the Netherlands, Denmark, Italy, North Macedonia, Kosovo, and Montenegro, amongst other European nations.
They selected Morocco as their standout location, saying: “In Morocco we went to the edge of the Sahara. We were sitting looking over the edge on the sand dunes drinking coffee from a mug from home – it was huge.
“Then we had snow in the Atlas mountains in January 2024 when we rescued Mohammed, ‘MouMou’, who was stuck 3,000m up in the snow in his car. We took him out with our snow chains and lent our snow chains to him. MouMou is in his late 20s and a really nice guy.
“We were just heading over the Atlas mountains when we saw him. People were just driving past him worrying he was a bandit when he just couldn’t drive on.”
However, Kath and Stu aren’t the only ones to have embraced van life, with the likes of Suzy Greenwood ditching her London job to live on the road after falling head over heels for the lifestyle.
Suzy, 39, had spent 15 years forging a career in PR before deciding to make the leap once the Covid-19 lockdowns had lifted. Confronted with her flat in Shepherd’s Bush, London, she told the Independent she realised she was “no longer doing the things I loved” in London.
After offloading her two-bedroom flat, she purchased a converted Volkswagen Caddy van and embarked on a fresh chapter. She revealed that despite the van’s compact size, it carries several distinct advantages, not least the financial savings.
She explained: “The van itself is tiny, which is great because I can park up anywhere. It looks like a workman’s van, so I can sleep in a lay-by, or at beautiful spots overlooking the sea.
“Where I once spent maybe £200 on a fancy dinner, I can now spend £10 on a whole weekend and be having the time of my life. The life I live now really doesn’t cost very much at all.”
An estimated five million people travel from the UK to Italy on holiday each year – and chef Vincenzo Prosperi has named the one authentic city that should be on every traveller’s radar
15:01, 29 Apr 2026Updated 15:01, 29 Apr 2026
A chef says Bari is an ‘authentic’ Italian destination(Image: Getty)
An Italian chef has highlighted an “authentic” city worth visiting – and it’s not Milan, Venice or Florence. The recommendation comes as roughly five million Britons jet off to Italy for holidays each year.
While countless holidaymakers head for coastal spots like Puglia or Rimini, the nation is equally renowned for its stunning city escapes. According to chef Vincenzo Prosperi, known as Vincenzo Plates online, there’s one particular city that offers a genuine taste of Italy.
Vincenzo champions Bari on the Adriatic Sea as an “old town where the nonnas make pasta on the sea”. In a YouTube video, he said: “A really wonderful city.
“It has really improved in the last 10 years. It is one of the best places to see in the south of Italy. This is authentic, this is great.”
Boasting just over 315,000 residents, Bari ranks amongst the most significant cities in southern Italy. It serves as both a breathtaking Mediterranean port and a thriving university hub, reports the Express.
Bari divides into separate districts. The old town, known as Bari Vecchia, comprises a maze of ancient streets housing the historic Basilica of Saint Nicholas, which originates from the 11th century.
The delightful Piazza del Ferrarese gazes out over the Augusto Imperatore waterfront while its palm-lined avenues provide the ideal fusion of historic town and contemporary seafront. Its name derives from a Ferrara merchant who resided there during the 1600s and maintained his warehouses on the square.
Remnants of a Roman road stretching back to the 2nd century lie cordoned off on the piazza. Nowadays tourists can savour a peaceful moment while observing the vibrant boats gently rocking in the harbour.
Meanwhile, the Murak Quarter, constructed under Joachim Murat, serves as the pulsating centre of contemporary Bari. It’s renowned for its orderly grid pattern of streets, thriving retail area, and lively café scene.
Its energetic character stands in stark contrast to the ancient old town. Travel authority Mark Wolters advises that anyone visiting Bari must head to Strada Arco Bass where residents prepare orecchiette pasta right on the street.
In a YouTube video, he said: “When you come here, you’re going to see there’s a street where all these grandmas, all these ladies, are making orecchiette, they’re making a special kind of pasta from here.”
He added: “We bought two bags for like five euros and it was so worth it. We got to see the lady and she was making them and they had them out there, it was a really cool thing.”
Mark also urges travellers to Bari to try the focaccia barese – a bread crafted from mashed potato and semolina flour. He said: “Focaccia is like a really fluffy, almost like a pizza-bread dough bread, and in it they put tomatoes and olives and it is fantastic, it’s a really special one from here.”
The expert advises that anyone keen on embarking on a road trip around the wider Puglia region should pick up a hire car at Bari airport before exploring the surrounding area. He explains that you “don’t want to drive” in the city itself, particularly around the old town.
Flights from the UK to Bari start at around £70 on Skyscanner. During the summer months, temperatures can soar to as high as 30C, with May typically seeing highs of around 23C.
