A BRIT R&B singer has quietly welcomed her second child with her music producer husband.
Cleo Sol, 38, surprised fans when she revealed she had given birth to another baby, after keeping her pregnancy a secret.
Singer Cleo Sol has revealed she has welcomed her second babyCredit: Instagram/gyallikecleeThe singer surprised fans with her baby announcement after keeping her pregnancy secretCredit: Instagram/gyallikeclee
The singer revealed that she and her record producer husband Inflo, real name Dean Josiah Cover, are now settling into life again as parents with a newborn.
Cleo, who shot to fame in the noughties, revealed her happy news on Instagram.
Sign up for the Showbiz newsletter
Thank you!
She posted a slew of photos which started with her pregnancy bump, and ended with her holding her newborn baby.
Cleo captioned the sweet snaps with: “Out of words right now, but grateful.”
The singer shared her baby news with a slew of pics from her pregnancy journeyCredit: Instagram/gyallikecleeCleo ended her carousel of pics with a sweet snap of her holding her newborn babyCredit: Instagram/gyallikeclee
The star’s fans rushed to share their joy at her happy news, with one writing: “Congratulations Angel!!”
Another said: “Happy for you sista!! Blessings to your beloved family!!”
A third commented: “Omg omg! Congratulations the family is growing!”
The singer and husband Inflo first became parents in 2021, when they welcomed their first baby.
Cleo shot to fame in the noughtiesCredit: GettyAfter ditching fame for a decade, the singer has returned to the music sceneCredit: Getty
Cleo shot into the spotlight in the noughties, and was known for hits like When I’m In Your Arms, Promises, Why Don’t You, and Life Will Be.
Before finding fame, the singer would upload her music to MySpace.
In 2008, Cleo got her big break when Tinie Tempah asked her to sing the chorus on his song Tears
Following this, she got a record deal and started making music of her own.
However, by 2013, Cleo decided she no longer wanted to be in the spotlight and retreated from fame.
“I wasn’t happy,” she admitted in an interview in 2019, when she returned to music.
“And I was attaching my happiness to my music, so I wanted to quit music completely.
“Which still makes me sad when I think about it.” For four years, she retired from music entirely.
“I wasn’t being true to myself, and I was listening to everyone else’s advice on my career other than myself.
“I had lost faith in myself. I didn’t know how to pick myself up again.”
However, after returning to the R&B scene seven years ago, Cleo continues to make music with her husband and also perform.
From the Murano glass lights casting a cosy glow in the lobby, to the fun herringbone carpets throughout, it’s almost tempting you to take pictures of it.
You may not even notice the image of Winston Churchill or the inspiring quotes subtly emblazoned on the wall in reception.
But take a closer look at and you’ll find little treasures hidden all over this 145-bedroom hotel.
Make sure to look down when heading to the lift, for some fun photo-taking opps…
The restaurant is a calm oasis away from the chaos of the cityCredit: Lost Property
What are the rooms like?
Ranging from Queen and King rooms to Junior Suites, the rooms are drenched in rich jewel tones of burgundy and navy.
The herringbone patterned carpets and red marble countertops were a masterclass in luxury, with gold fittings and mood lighting for when the sun goes down.
The marble bathroom was just as impressive, with fancy Urban Apothecary toiletries.
The rooms have it all – delightfully squishy beds, a stocked mini bar and some even come with a view of St Paul’s Cathedral.
Don’t want to be disturbed? Hang on your door the “Kindly Get Lost” sign for some peace and quiet.
Combining French and British classics, the watermelon vichyssoise was the perfect dish to cool me down in the heat.
The beef ribeye was cooked to perfection, while the zesty lemon posset cut through it perfectly.
Ask for the cocktail menu too, which leans into it’s theming of being lost – complete with am ’empty’ menu and a laser pen to help you find the cocktails.
For breakfast, head to the front of the hotel to Tattle Coffeehouse.
Drinks are made with Monmouth coffee, some of the best in London (and best chased by a freshly baked and flakey croissant…)
Gold fittings, rich red interiors – the bedrooms ooze sophisticationCredit: Lost Property
What else is there to do there?
For those that fancy a workout, there’s a very nice gym with Peloton bikes and treadmills.
They sit under large windows in the ceiling so you can soak up the natural light while you cycle.
The hotel is a short stroll from some top tourist attractions like the Tate Modern (15-minutes walk), the London Eye (30-minutes walk) and Somerset House (18-minutes walk).
Is the hotel family friendly?
There’s everything from kids menus at the restaurant to connecting family rooms and cribs on request – so definitely family friendly.
Is there access for guests with disabilities?
There is lift access to all floors as well as step-free access to the restaurant and accessible adapted rooms.
Looking for another place to stay? For more hotel inspiration click here.
Emmerdale’s Serena Sugden’s secret was exposed to her cousin Robert by his ex Kev Townsend on Monday’s episode of the ITV soap, and it might not end well for some characters
20:03, 13 Jul 2026Updated 20:04, 13 Jul 2026
Serena in Emmerdale seems to have finally been exposed(Image: Mark Bruce/ITV/PA Wire. )
Serena in Emmerdale seems to have finally been exposed, as her secret career was revealed.
Kev Townsend finally remembered where he knew Serena from, and he wasted no time in telling her cousin Robert Sugden. Kev shocked Robert as he outed Serena as a copper.
If he’s correct, this explains her shifty behaviour and her constant interrogations. But why is she asking questions about her killer cousin John Sugden and his victims?
Moira Dingle, Vanessa Woodfield and Aaron Dingle had all been suspicious of Serena as she quizzed them about John’s killer actions. While Robert wasn’t concerned, he was warned by Moira on Monday.
Moira told him how she’d been looking into Nate’s death at the hands of John, and she warned him not to tell Serena about how John died. It seems Moira could have been right to be so worried.
Kev then let himself into Robert’s house, leaving Robert stunned. But he was even more shocked when Kev dropped the bombshell that Serena “is police”, branding her a “copper”.
So is Serena a police officer, and is Kev right? He did say he never forgets a face and he’s rarely every wrong so it seems Serena has been sussed.
But what will Robert do with this information, and what is Serena up to? Of course Robert knows his sister Victoria Sugden, Serena’s other cousin, killed John in self-defence.
So Serena being a police officer could be bad news for them as they are covering up a crime. It comes as Aaron is set to make a discovery about his partner Robert’s cousin Serena, after he continues to be concerned about her presence.
When Robert is knocked unconscious by a runaway trailer on the farm, Serena helps him. But after she calls Aaron and tends to Robert’s injuries, Aaron shares his concern about Serena.
He questions the fact that Serena just happened to be at the right place at the right time. But spoilers could explain what really caused the incident with Robert, and it might have nothing to do with Serena.
A spoiler about a scene involving Mackenzie Boyd and Ross Barton, who are at the farm that same week, mentions a trailer. Is it just a coincidence, or is it linked?
So the spoiler reads: “A simmering tension from Mack towards Ross builds as they load bags from a trailer.” It’s at this point that the pair end up fighting, and Mack attacks Ross.
So what happens with the trailer? Is it the same trailer that ends up “running away’ and colliding with poor Robert on the farm?
Katie had a very cheeky answer when asked for her thoughts on disposable camerasCredit: InstagramThe former glamour model is promoting her new Sky documentary Nothing To HideCredit: Instagram
Former Gogglebox star Joe fired off a series of 90s trends to Katie and asked her if she would bring them back or ditch them.
When he suggested disposable cameras, the mum-of-five suggested she’d used them to snap naughty photos back in the day.
Sign up for the Showbiz newsletter
Thank you!
She said: “Nowadays, because you’ve got your phone, I think people take more explicit photos.
“With a disposable, you have to be careful and remember you have to take them somewhere like Boots.
She stood by her man when he recently spent time in Dubai’s Al Awir jail, where he was held over unpaid debts. Katie said on the Reign podcast this week: “There will be a documentary coming out about Lee, and he knows it.
“He’ll be appearing in it and yes, there is scandal around me — there always is. Not only now, there’s years of it.”
Christina Boyd on Coronation Street could face an uncertain future on the ITV soap, as her shocking secret has finally been exposed to several Weatherfield residents
Christina Boyd on Coronation Street could face an uncertain future(Image: ITV)
Christina in Coronation Street may need to watch out, after making an enemy of two characters.
Her secret was finally exposed during Friday’s episode, after weeks of shifty behaviour. There’s been mystery meet-ups, secret messages and cryptic phone calls.
George Shuttleworth feared his partner might be cheating on him, while his sister Glenda Shuttleworth told him that Christina was conning him and others. She’d found some credit card statements in Christina’s handbag.
In a twist though, they were not cards that belonged to her. Christina had taken out credit cards in the names of Mary Taylor and Christina’s ex-husband Lenny.
On Friday, George prepared to confront his partner, while he also followed her, after she claimed she had to pop out again. When George tracked her down he saw her with a man, and demanded answers.
Christina explained that the man was Lenny, her ex, and Lenny had found out that Christina had taken out a credit card in his name. Lenny found this out on the night that Theo Silverton died, and this is why Christina lied about her alibi, because she was meeting with Lenny.
It was Lenny she had been messaging too. That’s not all though, as Christina confessed she’d also got a credit card in Glenda’s name. George demanded answers and Christina finally confessed to the credit cards, before explaining she had a spending addiction.
George was unsympathetic at first, as Christina claimed it was “a disease”. As she detailed the addiction and the impact it had on her life, she revealed that Lenny had asked her to go a support group.
Christina confirmed she had attended the meetings before, as the addiction was something she had battled previously before managing to overcome it. Recent stress led to a relapse, she claimed, with her spending so much money, she felt she had no alternative but to get credit cards to continue her sprees.
Christina begged George not to leave her, and he attended the meeting with her where she explained her addiction further. George encouraged Christina to take ownership as he vowed to stand by her.
But other characters were not so forgiving. Glenda blurted out to Todd Grimshaw and Mary that Christina was a scammer, before she exposed what Christina had done. Christina then explained the full story, and opened up about her addiction.
As everyone listened, Glenda fumed at George for forgiving Christina, before making it clear she did not buy her story. She tried to get the others to agree, but Mary was trying to process it all.
Then, Mary told Christina that she would not take legal action against her, as Christina vowed to fix things. Mary did say Christina had broken her trust however, and that she did not accept her apology.
So with Mary and Glenda refusing to forgive her, and Glenda not saying she would not call the police, does this mean Christina could face legal action? Could it also force her to leave the cobbles for good after her betrayal, and will George really stand by her?
JOHN Bishop has revealed that he and wife Mel have secretly renewed their wedding vows after “tough times’ in his marriage.
The comedian, 59, admitted that his marriage had “failed” and “everything had gone s***” before he found a particular musician that helped him heal the problems in his relationship.
John Bishop and wife Melanie secretly renewed their wedding vowsCredit: GettyThe comedian revealed that he turned to a certain musician to help him through ‘low’ timesCredit: Getty
John, who has been married to Mel for 33 years, said he really connected to artist David Gray’s music during his lowest times.
Speaking on stage at Silver Clef on Thursday, John said: “Tonight I could never imagined that I’d get the opportunity to say thank you to this artist.
Sign up for the Showbiz newsletter
Thank you!
“My marriage had failed, everything had gone s*** and like most men I had no-one to talk to, and the magic of songs is that you listen to them and you hear what that artist is feeling and you hear what that artist thinks of the world.”
John said he was introduced to the singer’s 1998 album White Ladder, which is David’s fourth studio album.
John credits singer David Gray’s music for pulling him through some difficult timesCredit: SplashThe couple gave their marriage another go after they almost signed their divorce papersCredit: Getty – Contributor
The stand-up comic said that the Babylon singer became a “constant part of his life” and pulled him through some difficult times.
John continued: “Somebody gave me White Ladder and I listened to it and I realised sometimes there’s an artist that sings songs that tells you what you are thinking and feeling of the world, so when I was at my lowest I was introduced to David Gray and he’s been a constant part of my life ever since.
“I would say 90 per cent of the gigs that I do afterwards I get in the car, I put my headphones on and I listen to David Gray.”
John then dropped the news that he secretly renewed his wedding vows with Mel and even played one of the artist’s biggest tracks, Sail Away
“He [David] was there at the lowest point of my life but then when me and my wife reconciled and then went on to renew our wedding vows we played Sail Away as we walked down the aisle,” John added.
“He’s been there at the highest point of my life.”
John married Melanie in 1993 and they had three boys — Joe, now 29, Luke, 27 and Daniel, 25. But the stresses of life led the couple to split up for 18 months — and they almost signed their divorce papers in 2000.
While performing at an open night, John made a gag about missing his soon-to-be former wife so much that he kept her “severed head in the fridge”.
But unbeknown to the Liverpool-born comedian, she was right there in the audience.
The remarkable tale of John’s stand-up career and marriage inspired a movie directed byHollywoodstarBradley Cooper, which was released in January.
John said about his marriage: “There was no huge fight or a revelation about someone else. We just grew apart.
“Maybe it had something to do with having three kids so quickly.
“For six years there was always someone in the house in nappies. Our marriage just faded.”
Feeling “depressed”, he went to the Frog And Bucket Comedy Club in Manchester, which has helped launch the careers of acts including Peter Kay and Jack Whitehall.
He did not want to pay the £4 entrance fee, so put himself down on the list of comedians for the open mic night.
John recalled: “I clambered up on stage, picked up the microphone and thought, what on Earth am I doing here? I had no jokes, and absolutely no material. I just talked about life.”
The audience laughed as he riffed on his marriage woes, so John was invited back to perform again.
One of the routines would make the audience go, “Aww!” — when he spoke about splitting up from his wife. He would then tell them: “Don’t worry, we haven’t divorced — I’ve just killed her.
“But I knew I would miss her so I’ve kept her head in the fridge for three months.”
Melanie turned up with workmates for one of those gigs in 2000, and when John saw her afterwards he started to apologise for his jokes.
To his surprise, she said: “The man I saw on stage was the man I married. Where did he go?”
The couple went for marriage counselling at Relate and are still together today, 25 years later.
John said: “The pain we had in our relationship, it sounds cliched but it made us stronger.”
It then took John another six years to give up his job in pharmaceutical sales in order to become a comedian full-time at the age of 40.
The decision was the right one because he is now one of the nation’s most popular funnymen.
AFTER their star-studded wedding in New York last week, Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce’s secret honeymoon location has finally been revealed.
Fans have of course been desperate to know where the newlyweds will be taking their post-wedding vacation.
The location of Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift’s mini-moon has been revealedCredit: GettyThe smitten couple are hunkering down for a few days at the ultra-exclusive Yellowstone Club in MontanaCredit: Facebook/Yellowstone Club
The couple’s wedding was kept well under wraps and it seems the honeymoon has been no different.
In a bid to keep the location locked down, it’s been revealed that Taylor and Travis took different planes and airports to reach their destination.
Pop queen Taylor and NFL star Travis married in a lavish ceremony at Madison Square Garden last Friday July 3Credit: EPASinger Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce of the Kansas City Chiefs have been together for three yearsCredit: Getty
Taylor and Travis were spotted at the ultra-exclusive Yellowstone Club in Big Sky, Montana, in the days following their nuptials at Madison Square Garden, according to the Mail’s source.
The smitten couple have been seen in the resort before and it’s quickly become somewhat of a quiet and private place for them to spend time.
Over the July 4 weekend, Taylor’s jet was loaned to family friends, who were spotted at her bougie $30 million holiday home in Rhode Island.
Flight paths show her plane then return through Nashville before it finally landed at Bozeman International Airport in Montana – a stones throw away from the Yellowstone Club.
Most read in Entertainment
To be granted a membership at the club, guests must own property on the site and pay the initial eye-popping membership fee of approximately $500,000, plus the yearly cost of $78,000.
Yellowstone Club features jaw-dropping mountain views, multiple pools including an infinity, rustic yet modern interiors and 15,200 acres of land.
Travis and 14-time Grammy Award winner Taylor have been to the luxury hideaway multiple times over the past few years with no snaps of the pair inside the gates ever surfacing online.
Last July, there was chatter they spent Independence Day weekend at the retreat and it was later confirmed by Travis himself as he donned a Yellowstone Club t-shirt in an episode of his podcast.
The resort is so exclusive that no one can enter without an invite.
Bill Gates, Tom Brady and Mark Zuckerberg are known members of the club.
Travis and Taylor tied the knot in front of 1000 of their closest family and celebrity pals on Friday July 3.
WITH a wardrobe to envy Sex and the City’s Carrie Bradshaw, lifestyle influencer Amelia Liana appeared to be the ultimate single girl.
But her carefully curated “single girl” persona was shattered this week when she published her YouTube vlog on Sunday night, titled: “I GOT MARRIED!!!!”
Sign up for the Showbiz newsletter
Thank you!
Amelia stunned fans when she revealed she had secretly married after months of presenting herself as single onlineCredit: instagram/@amelialianaJust weeks before announcing her wedding, Amelia was sharing advice about life as a single woman in her thirtiesCredit: supplied/youtube The YouTube star secretly married in May before finally breaking the news to her stunned followersCredit: instagram/@amelialianaThe influencer shared stunning snaps from her big day after tying the knot in one of London’s most exclusive venuesCredit: instagram/@amelialiana
After all, Amelia, 34, who shares every inch of her life online, was not wearing an engagement ring – let alone mentioning that she had a boyfriend.
Only two months ago she posted a video on her YouTube account titled: “Single in my 30s and life update.”
So for the two million followers she calls “family”, it came as a huge shock.
London-born Amelia Liana launched her YouTube in 2013 and has since grown on TikTok and Instagram – publishing her luxury lifestyle which includes running “boujie errands” such as picking up jewellery at Cartier.
Amelia initially kept her groom’s identity under wrapsCredit: instagram/@amelialianaAmelia built her career by sharing every detail of her life online – making her secret marriage all the more surprisingCredit: youtube/@amelialiana
In her reveal video on Sunday, Amelia did little to quell her followers’ thirst to know about her marriage—and, more to the point, her new man.
The description read: “Surprise! We skipped a chapter! I’ve been keeping a little secret and I couldn’t wait to tell you that I got married!”
Sat in her “shroom” [shoe room] in her multi-million London townhouse, Amelia said: “This is going to make me really emotional saying this because I feel like you guys are family – I couldn’t wait to tell you.”
She added: “I decided that the next relationship I shared online was going to be my husband. This is definitely the best relationship I have ever been in, in my life and that’s why I married him.
“Some people predicted that I was getting married or something was going on because there were a lot of men’s shoes around.”
Of keeping her marriage under wraps, she said: “I couldn’t cut so much footage because there was a lot of footage already being cut because I kept forgetting to take off my ring.
“I think a lot of people on TikTok spotted it because I forgot to cut out my ring in a video and it was up for like half an hour and then I deleted it and reposted it because that was not supposed to be how I wanted to tell you.”
However I can reveal that Amelia has tied the knot with a 41-year-old high-flying CEO named Michael.
Followers accused Amelia of living a ‘double life’ after revealing her secret marriageCredit: instagram/@amelialianaAmelia enjoyed her honeymoon with her new man to GreeceCredit: instagram/@amelialiana
The marriage took place on May 19 at Chelsea Old Town Hall on the King’s Road in the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea.
Her new husband who speaks English and German, and is the CEO of a multinational brand.
Amelia and her new man have also chosen not to follow each other on Instagram.
The couple are understood to have also had a ceremony at Spencer House in London’s St James’s with family and friends.
The Great Room, which overlooks Green Park, costs between £13,750 and £15,000 to hire.
She is also believed to have held her reception at London’s five-star hotel Claridge’s which can cost up to £30,000 with food and drinks included.
Amelia requested that her wedding planner organise an Alfonso mango stand at the reception.
She also had a traditional henna party which included fellow influencers Suzie Bonaldi and Audrey Peters – instead of having bridesmaids.
In true Amelia style, her bridal party – including sister Hannah and mum Carol – got ready in the £6,000-a-night room, The Dorchester Suite, at the five-star hotel overlooking Hyde Park.
Meanwhile I have heard that the couple honeymooned at the five-star Amanzoe resort in Greece.
A pool pavilion room at the resort costs around £3,542 per night and includes a 19ft private pool and views of the Aegean Sea.
The stay includes complimentary movements classes including Pilates and yoga as well as daily breakfast.
Of the wedding, a friend said: “It was a really fantastic day. Amelia couldn’t be happier. They had 200 of her closest friends and family there – and she, luckily, timed the weather well.
“It was just before the full heatwave – and was a glorious sunny day…without being too hot! She and her husband have known each other a long time – and got engaged last year.
“They actually had their formal marriage a few weeks before posting. Now, happily married, Amelia’s looking forward to getting back to work with a renewed sense of vigour – after being absolutely blown away by the reaction to her wedding videos.
“She never thought there would be so much traction from them – but those vids have already amassed more than 65 million views, which is incredible. That has been yet another boost for her – and has really rounded off a perfect few weeks.”
Amelia has so far shared 20 posts about her wedding with her 595,000 Instagram followers—with no groom in sight.
She has also set up an Instagram broadcast channel called “AL Club” to constantly keep her followers interested in the wedding.
Of what she looks for in a partner, she previously said: “I need a man that is secure. Not an insecure man – a secure man.
“If you are an insecure man – and I have had experience in this – you are going to resent me, resent my success.”
She added: “So I need a man that is secure.”
One fan said: “SINGLE IN MY 30S” two months ago. What was the point in all the long vents about how “behind in life you are” and repeating you’re single over and over…
In 2019 Amelia announced that she has split from her fiance known as “Robert” in an emotional Youtube video.
It came after Amelia documented her engagement party after announcing the proposal in December 2018.
She went on to date family friend Jak Serr – the son of BBC Apprentice star and entrepreneur Linda Plant.
The pair documented their relationship with TikTok videos but Amelia confirmed in 2024 that the pair had transitioned back to a friendship.
HARRY Styles is looking at New Orleans for his wedding to Zoe Kravitz, it can be revealed.
Pals close to the loved-up pair say they think the Southern US town could be a special spot to tie the knot and have researched venues.
Sign up for the Showbiz newsletter
Thank you!
Harry Styles is looking at New Orleans for his wedding to Zoe Kravitz, pictured pair in New York in MarchCredit: GettyThe loved-up couple have been dating since August last yearCredit: Getty
Zoe’s famous musician dad Lenny Kravitz has long-standing roots in the town after buying his first home in the Louisiana town, which has deep ties to the blues music scene.
Back at home, the One Direction star, 32, and US actress, 37, this weekend enjoyed London’s heatwave and were snapped cuddling on a picnic blanket on Hampstead Heath.
They confirmed their engagement to close family and friends in April.
A source said: “Harry and Zoe might have a string of celebrity friends and a Hollywood lifestyle but their wedding won’t be like that.
“Zoe’s family ties to New Orleans, plus the town’s musical history, is making it a front runner and they’ve told pals that they’re looking at options for holding their big day there.”
Rock icon Lenny bought his first home in New Orleans in 1994 – a Creole cottage on Dauphine Street in the French Quarter of New Orleans, a block away from the town’s famous Bourbon Street.
Whilst Zoe grew up in Los Angeles with her mother Lisa Bonet, in her teenage years she spent more time with Lenny at his Miami estate and New Orleans cottage.
A source said: ‘Harry and Zoe might have a string of celebrity friends and a Hollywood lifestyle but their wedding won’t be like that’Credit: GettyStunning actress Zoe recently starred as Catwoman in The BatmanCredit: Getty
Ex-One Direction singer Harry and Zoe, who played Catwoman in The Batman, have dated since August last year.
They went public with their relationship in Rome but have since kept matters private and not commented on their status.
Harry is said to have popped the question with a ring worth up to £500,000 and first sparked engagement rumours when he and Zoe flew to the Bahamas just after Christmas to stay in her dad’s home there.
A source said at the time: “If it wasn’t an engagement, then it was something that shows they are very much committed to each other.”
SHE’s a singer, songwriter and actress – but Charli XCX is yet to achieve her original life goal.
The Rock Music singer, whose new song Wink Wink is out now, said: “When I was younger, I thought it would be fun if my job was being a fairy or something.
Sign up for the Showbiz newsletter
Thank you!
Charli XCX is yet to achieve her original life goalCredit: GettyCharli said: ‘I think I’ve said this to Lorde before, I was so jealous when I heard Royals for the first time’Credit: Getty
“I had a pink princess dress, a puffed out sparkly kid’s dress that I just absolutely loved.
“It was probably some sort of Toys R Us situation, the peak of fashion, you know. And it came with these little lacy white gloves.
“I remember being really, really into that when I was younger and always wanting to wear it.”
That’s a far cry from the grungy aesthetic of her new album Music, Fashion, Film – which is out next month.
In an interview with Bella Freud on her Fashion Neurosis podcast, Charli also opened up about the envy she has for other artists including Lorde, who she collaborated with on the 2024 song Girl, So Confusing.
Quizzed on whether she gets attacks of “competitive jealousy,” she said: “Of course. I think I’ve said this to Lorde before, I was so jealous when I heard Royals for the first time.
“I was like, ‘I’m so jealous. I wish that I could have written that song.’
“I thought it was so spectacular…it really defined a time, that song.”
SIR ROD’S BACK AT FULL GAS
Sir Rod Stewart headlined the Rock In Rio festival in Portugal – just days after he was seen needing oxygen during a US gigCredit: EPA
For 100 minutes he barely paused for breath, belting out hit after hit while strutting across the stage – which marked his first Rock in Rio appearance in 18 years.
Sir Rod also used his set to make a political point, shouting “F**k Putin,” as he dedicated Rhythm Of My Heart to the people of Ukraine and their president Volodymyr Zelenskyy, much to the appreciation of the crowd.
Rod also had the Portuguese fans eating out of the palm of his hand as he asked: “Are Portugal going to win the World Cup?
“Fingers crossed, guys, fingers crossed.”
Sadly they’ve got a far better chance than his beloved Scotland, who are already heading home.
MILLIE BOBBY BROWN admits married life didn’t get off to the best start – she was stung by a bee as her husband said his vows.
Sam Thompson finally found a reason to smile again with new girlfriend Talitha Balinska after his devastating split from ex Zara McDermott.
But while the pair are certainly loved up, some members of his inner circle have told The Sun they are questioning whether Talitha may turn out to be Zara 2.0.
Sam Thompson and Talitha Balinska have been dating since October 2025Credit: InstagramSam and Zara McDermott split just before Christmas in 2024, reportedly because he wasn’t prioritising their relationshipCredit: Instagram
According to a source close to Sam, they believe his new model and DJ squeeze appears to be following too closely in his ex’s footsteps – and could secretly harbour desires to have a career as big as the former Love Island and Strictly Come Dancing beauty.
A member of Sam’s posse tells us: “Talitha seems like a nice girl but a few eyebrows have been raised by some of Sam’s pals about how easily she has slotted into his showbiz world and how comfortable she seems in the spotlight.
“They have questioned whether she is enjoying the profile boost that comes with dating a guy like Sam, because she wasn’t as well known before dating him.
They added: “These days she always seems to be invited brand trips or flogging online ads in a way she wasn’t before, so it feels like being with Sam has opened some major doors for her. You can’t necessarily blame her for taking advantage of that, but it has raised some eyebrows.”
Zara (right) and Sam’s sister Louise Thompson (middle right) were very close when she was dating the TV starCredit: GettyTalitha now appears to be close with Louise – exactly like Zara wasCredit: Instagram
After the ties with ex Zara severed, Sam had quite the “glow-up” and he soon captured the attention of model and DJ Talitha.
Former Made In Chelsea star Sam told how Talitha was “the one” earlier this year, but not everyone in his life is convinced.
“It feels like he has rushed head over heels into the next full-on relationship, but that’s Sam, he’s like a puppydog in love.
“Talitha could turn out to be the love of his life, but we’re his friends and we’re protective. We don’t want to see him get hurt.”
Sam first met gorgeous Talitha in 2024 on a photoshoot for Sam’s sunglasses brand Dinelli Eyewear but they didn’t begin to date until a few months after his split from Zara.
Once the couple were spotted together in October last year and Sam began mentioning her online, Talitha’s influencer career really took off.
The 24-year-old’s following grew by 900 per cent on Instagram and she started cashing in on more advertisement deals.
Not only that, Talitha has been making the most of her newfound fame, jetting off on brand trips, scooping freebies and enjoying lavish dinners.
She was spotted a few weeks ago partying on a yacht in Marbella, Spain, after being whisked away by The Couture Club.
The model has taken the place of the Love Island legend in a string of Sam’s social media ads – something he once enjoyed doing with Zara.
Stunning Talitha has been spotted on a string of brand trips over the last few monthsCredit: InstagramSam and Talitha cosy up on a night outCredit: InstagramSam and his best pal Pete WicksCredit: Getty
Our source adds: “Sam and Zara would often beg their family and friends to get involved with the funny twists they would put on their content – it looks as though history is repeating itself.
” A few of us have pointed out that Talitha often appears on social media “playing the eye-rolling” girlfriend, something Zara had perfected, or the one who laughs at all his jokes.
The source said: “A few who knew Zara really well have commented that Talitha seems to basically be copying her – the way she acts on social media is very similar, playing the foil to him is the same schtick Zara used to do in his Instagram and TikTok videos.”
Sam’s posse have noticed that Talitha has also become tight with Sam’s sister Louise, who absolutely adores her.
Zara was incredibly close to Louise and the pair were often spotted together.
“Talitha seems like she’s really close with his sister Louise, just like Zara was, but they have hardly known each other for a fraction of the time,” says our insider.
“It all feels a bit too much too fast, like she is already a member of the family.
“Some of us have joked that she’ll be landing her own BBC Three documentary series next, or trying to get cast on a reality show.”
Talitha’s influence has already begun to make its mark on Sam’s home, too.
This Morning‘s Sam revealed on his podcast, Staying Relevant, that he was getting his garden redone with a huge water feature, top-notch barbecue and bougie seating area.
But when he was quizzed on the new expense by his best pal Pete Wicks, Sam admitted he was forking out because Talitha wanted him too.
The 33-year-old claimed he’d rather have spent the cash on a lavish break away but his girlfriend felt a remodelled garden would be the perfect place for them to spend time.
Documentary maker Zara, 29, previously staked her claim on the home as the exes carved their names into the kitchen wood. Sam later admitted this wasn’t his choice either.
The podcast host got the room redecorated for the second time in just a few years to wipe any trace of Zara, who has since moved on with former One Direction star Louis Tomlinson.
Talitha, who now appears to have properly moved in to Sam’s home, took to Instagram recently to admit that she was forcing him to move his clothes so she could have more wardrobe space.
Despite what some of Sam’s posse think, others say Talitha “picked Sam up at a time when he was really heartbroken,” and “put a smile back on his face again.”
According to a source close to Talitha , the couple are really happy and they don’t understand why some people are trying to “tear her down.”
Her pal continues: “Talitha is actually quite introverted and not in this for the fame.
“She already had an influencer profile before getting together with Sam, so anything she gets offered now comes from her already being in this world.
“Maybe some brands have reached out to her since she has been with Sam, but it’s not Talitha actively seeking these things out.
“She is with Sam for the right reasons, she’s a genuine girl and it’s disappointed for anyone to suggest she wants to copy Zara.
“She’s aware of Sam’s exes, but everyone has an ex and she is an ex for a reason. Talitha certainly doesn’t want to be the next Zara, because why would he even want to be with a clone of his former flame?
“It’s just silly – a case of someone trying to pit women against women. Sam and Talitha are happy, so anyone who thinks otherwise is not a real friend of either of them.”
The Sun has reached out to reps for Sam and Talitha for comment.
HARRY Style’s ex girlfriend Nadine Leopold has just revealed that she’s pregnant with her first child.
The stunning Victoria’s Secret model, 32, took to Instagram to announce the amazing news with a series of black and white photos.
Sign up for the Showbiz newsletter
Thank you!
Harry Styles’ ex Nadine Leopold has revealed that she’s pregnantCredit: InstagramNadine and the singer dated between 2014 and 2015Credit: Getty
In the post Nadine compiled four snaps together showing her blossoming belly from different angles.
She cradles her bump and holds up a pregnancy test next to it in one picture, meanwhile others show her with her hands on her lower back to really flaunt the change in her figure.
Penned alongside the photos, Nadine said in the post’s caption: “The best is yet to come…” followed by emojis of a baby’s bottle and a white heart.
Fans of the star flooded the comment’s section with congratulatory messages.
TELLY favourites Stacey Solomon and Joe Swash are set to upgrade their Pickle Cottage home for a sprawling mansion set in 30 acres.
The couple have set their sights on an impressive eight-bedroom Victorian mansion, which is said to be central to DIY influencer Stacey’s next renovation project.
Stacey and Joe are set to upgrade Pickle Cottage for a sprawling eight-bedroom mansionCredit: BBCThe Essex property costs almost double the £1.3million price of their current home Pickle CottageCredit: Instagram
A source said the pair “fell in love” with the Essex property after viewing it as a potential new home for their family of eight.
Stacey, 36, will have her work cut out transforming the already-impressive gaff, which costs almost double the £1.3million price of their current home and is more than 7,500 sq ft — complete with a pool and a lake.
Our source said the couple would be sad to leave Pickle Cottage, but are grateful to have the chance to make “new memories” with their brood.
They said: “They viewed the house and fell in love with it. It’s got extra space for the kids.
“Pickle Cottage only has five bedrooms. They have six children and then they need a room for themselves. It gives Stacey a chance to do more of her amazing DIY work as well.
“She has a great eye for interiors. This house needs a bit of love and work to make it the absolute dream home where they can make new memories.”
The family’s current Tudor-style Pickle Cottage, also in Essex, is the setting for their reality TV show, which launched to 4.2million viewers in April last year, with a second series last September.
Our insider revealed the sprawling mansion could be a dream home to make new memoriesCredit: GettyOur source said the couple would be sad to leave Pickle CottageCredit: Getty
The BBC has commissioned a third series of the show, despite scrutiny after The Sun’s revelation that the couple’s lavish 2022 wedding was never made legal.
Following the news, Stacey took to social media to tell her six million followers the pair had always been clear it was a “religious ceremony and blessing” in their garden.
She added that the couple plan to get “legally married at a later point”.
Stacey and Joe, 44, have three kids together — Rex, seven, Rose, four, and three-year-old Belle — while Stacey also has teenage sons Zachary, 18, and Leighton, 14, and Joe has son Harry, 19.
Pickle Cottage only has five bedrooms and the couple have six childrenCredit: StaceySolomon – Instagram
In March, after being pictured multiple times with and without her wedding ring, Stacey addressed speculation about “issues going on” in her marriage on ITV’s This Morning.
She told presenter Ben Shephard: “There’s a new rumour each week. Have I not been wearing my ring? I probably took it off to go to the toilet or something.”
Stacey and ex-EastEnders star Joe have built lucrative careers on their family image after first meeting on ITV’s I’m a Celebrity show in 2010.
A LESSER-VISITED airport is about to get a massive upgrade – its biggest in its 96-year history.
Hollywood in Los Angeles, USA, is known for being one of the most famous tourist spots in the world.
Sign up for the Travel newsletter
Thank you!
Hollywood Burbank Airport is opening a new £1billion terminalCredit: CorganThe airport is near one of the most famous tourist destinations in the world – HollywoodCredit: elevatebur.com
And most people will get there via LAX Airport – but don’t realise there is also Hollywood Burbank Airport.
The airport is not only closer to Hollywood, but also closer to Universal Studios Hollywood and Warner Bros. Studio Tour.
This October the airport will be opening its £1billion new terminal – called The Icon – which will replace the former historic terminal which opened back in 1930.
The new terminal will be bigger than the former one and have floor-to-ceiling glass windows, filling the terminal with natural light.
The airport is also close to Universal Studios Hollywood as well as Warner Bros. Studio ToursCredit: CorganThe airport will be themed like ‘old Hollywood’Credit: elevatebur.com
To get to the 14 gates, passengers will head through an eight-lane TSA security area with modern screening technology.
There will be a central food court with restaurants and shops for travellers, with plenty of seating outside each gate.
The airport is often used by celebs due to being close to Hollywood.
Recent celeb sightings include actress Jennifer Garner and actor Neal McDonough.
The airport itself has even appeared on the big screen as a filming location, including in Ocean’s Eleven and The Office.
Visitors will be able to head to a sleek bar with views of the parked planesCredit: Corgan.comThe new terminal will open in OctoberCredit: Corgan
POP superstars Madonna and Kylie Minogue get into the groove as they film a comedy bar sketch for Madge’s special with Graham Norton.
Madonna, 67, invited Kylie, 58, to take part in the top-secret filming last month, having admired her career for over a decade, the Sun can reveal.
Sign up for the Showbiz newsletter
Thank you!
Madonna and Kylie Minogue filmed a comedy bar sketch for Madge’s special with Graham NortonCredit: Ricardo GomesThe Sun understands the pair have discussed hitting the studio together in the future
A source said: “Madonna and Kylie have long been fans of each other, so when Kylie got the call to make a cameo in the BBC special, it was a no-brainer. Rather than a performance, Kylie actually appears in the show in a light-hearted skit.
“She plays a barmaid, though, awkwardly, Madonna doesn’t like the drink Kylie gives her. It’s all very light-hearted.”
The Sun understands the pair have discussed hitting the studio together in the future.
The TV special, Madonna & Graham, airs tonight at 10.40pm on BBC One.
It was filmed in Camden at Koko, where Madonna performed for the first time in the UK for just 200 people in 1983 when it was called the Camden Palace.
Graham said: “As a lifelong fan it is always a thrill to interview Madonna. But to meet her on the dance floor where she first performed in London over 40 years ago felt incredibly special.”
Kylie made a surprise guest appearance at Madonna’s The Celebration Tour in LA in 2024.
They performed Gloria Gaynor’s 1978 hit I Will Survive in a nod to Kylie’s 2005 breast cancer battle.
The TV special, Madonna & Graham airs tonight at 10.40pm on BBC OneCredit: PA
A Wizz Air flight attendant explained why cabin crew greet passengers and revealed that they use ‘secret codes’ when everyone is boarding
12:12, 24 Jun 2026Updated 12:25, 24 Jun 2026
Cabin crew use a ‘secret code’ when greeting passengers (stock photo)(Image: Getty)
A cabin crew instructor has revealed that flight attendants often use a ‘secret code’ when greeting passengers. As most travellers know, it’s common to be greeted by cabin crew when boarding a flight. Whether you’re excited for your holiday or a nervous flyer, it’s reassuring to be met by a friendly face and know there’s help available as you find your seat and get ready for takeoff.
While crew members enjoy welcoming passengers on board as part of their service, there’s another important reason passengers are greeted at the door, and it might surprise some. Gabriel Randone, a Wizz Air Cabin Crew Instructor, told the Mirror that flight attendants are trained to greet passengers as part of their safety measures.
He explained that cabin crew complete a “mental scan of passengers” to ensure that everybody is fit to fly. What’s more, he says cabin crew are taught a secret acronym that they check during the process.
While Gabriel couldn’t reveal all of the details, as the acronym is not shared with passengers, he did explain what cabin crew would be looking for. For instance, cabin crew will check whether anyone appears aggressive or intoxicated. They’ll also keep an eye out for any medical conditions that could prevent someone from flying. “The goal is safety,” Gabriel said.
Any passengers seated near the emergency exit rows will also spot cabin crew hanging around in the area for similar reasons, Gabriel said. The instructor explained that the crew are trained to assess passengers, as some “categories of passengers” can’t be seated next to the emergency exit.
While many passengers might try to book the emergency exit rows, as they are classified as extra-legroom seats, Wizz Air’s website makes it clear that they are not suitable for all passengers.
The airline’s website states: “For safety purposes, regulations prohibit passengers under 16 years old, overweight passengers, individuals with special needs, expectant mothers, and those travelling with infants (under two years old) from occupying Extra Legroom or Front Row seats.”
Passengers seated in these rows must be able to open the exits in case of an emergency, and they receive a briefing that makes this clear. This protocol is so important that if nobody books the seat, the cabin crew will find a volunteer to move there.
“Sometimes, because the flights might not be fully booked, there would be no one close to the emergency exits”, Gabriel explained. “So what we need to do is to select someone who we call an ABP, an able-bodied person, and select them and to move them close to the emergency exits so that they can help out in case of an emergency”.
In the event of an emergency, the passenger would need to detach the safety cover from the door and pull a lever to open it. As Gabriel explained, every second counts in an emergency. “In an emergency, our priority is to get you out as quickly as possible,” he said. “We only have 90 seconds to evacuate a full cabin with 239 passengers.”
You can find out more about Wizz Air’s routes on wizzair.com.
PEOPLE are only just realising that there is a secret cabinet in plane toilets.
The cupboards hold essential products to help passengers in need.
Sign up for the Travel newsletter
Thank you!
Period products are kept in a secret cabinet in plane toiletsCredit: GettyTatti Sorokina shared her experience with the secret plane cupboard on InstagramCredit: instagram @tatti.sorokina
Sanitary products are hidden behind airplane mirrors for flyers that have been caught short by an unexpected period.
Mum-of-two Tatti Sorokina took to Instagram to share her positive experience of the plane cupboard.
She filmed herself opening the mirror in the airplane toilet to reveal a cabinet of sanitary towels.
Some commenters were quick to qualify the video, with one writing: “Usually, passengers should not open this in the bathroom,
HARRY Styles has some tricky steps to negotiate in his £30million mansion project — restoring a rotten staircase.
The former One Direction singer is paying experts to return the 300-year-old feature to its former glory as he turns three properties into one huge home.
Harry Styles has some tricky steps to negotiate in his £30million mansion project — restoring a rotten staircaseCredit: ErotemeThe former 1D singer is dating US actress Zoe KravitzCredit: Getty
The staircase revamp could delay the renovation project, which is slated for completion by October 2027.
A source said: “Harry doesn’t do anything by halves.
“This is a very ambitious project so there are bound to be stumbling blocks.
“The staircase is the latest snag but it’s a lovely period feature and he’s going to get the very best craftsmen to make it as good as new.
“It will take a while because it has to be taken apart piece by piece, restored and then put back in place, so it could well affect the deadline.”
In planning documents, Harry’s team say the condition of the 1734 staircase has deteriorated and it had some “poor-quality repairs” over the years.
He has appointed heritage carpentry experts to assess the best way to restore the feature.
Loved-up Harry and Zoe strolling in New York togetherCredit: GettyHarry is merging Georgian and 18th-century properties in Hampstead, North LondonCredit: Getty
TWO years after hanging up his football boots to pursue a career in modelling, a major curve ball has seen Romeo Beckham land his first acting role.
The 23-year-old will make his big-screen debut this November in movie Forty Love, which centres on a same-sex romance involving two rising tennis stars.
Romeo Beckham will be making his big-screen debut after hanging up his football bootsCredit: Instagram/@romeobeckhamRomeo in film Forty Love which centres on a same-sex romanceCredit: Studio Canal
Insiders say Romeo — the middle son of David and Victoria Beckham — honed his skills during secret acting lessons last year.
A source revealed: “Romeo has long been in demand for film and TV roles, but he made sure to do the work before putting his name to anything.
“Forty Love’s script and the team behind it resonated with Romeo, plus he has first-hand experience of being a professional sportsperson and knew he could bring that knowledge and experience to the role.
“It’s a French film and is currently only slated for release over there, although there will be plans for a wider rollout.
“Romeo had a handful of lessons with acting specialists early last year before they started filming. He has put his heart and soul into this role.”
Forty Love is described as a “sensual, romantic and deeply moving fable and coming-of-age story.”
Most of the movie will be in French, but Romeo plays an English-speaking character, using his native language in his scenes.
It is a far cry from the football pitch or runways across the globe where he has modelled for Saint Laurent, Balenciaga and Burberry.
His fans have applauded his new career, with many comparing Forty Love to HBO Max series Heated Rivalry, in which two professional male ice-hockey players have a secret romance.
But Romeo himself is aware of being branded a nepo baby as he expands his showbiz CV, just like his ex-footballer dad David and former Spice Girl mum Victoria did before him.
And he is not the first famous youngster to move into acting. Maya Hawke — daughter of Hollywood actors Ethan Hawke and Uma Thurman — is now a screen star following her breakout role in Netflix’s Stranger Things.
Romeo turned down a new contract with Brentwood FC’s B-team in 2024Credit: GettyRomeo with girlfriend Kim TurnballCredit: Getty
A source said: “Romeo knows there will be a lot of eyes on him, but his work will speak for itself.
“This film will show people what Romeo can do. He is an impressive actor and this is a great starting point for him.
“He is still working as a model and he has just launched his clothing range Intra, which is a project he has been working hard on in the background.
“Romeo is a grafter.”
Forty Love will be the directorial debut for fashion photographer Pierre-Ange Carlotti, who has cast French actor Paul Kircher alongside Romeo.
Paul plays the leading role of Sacha Gallo, a tennis superstar who is vying to win a major trophy in Paris under the guid- ance of his coach and father.
Romeo will play his rival — and his love interest. The film’s synopsis says of Sacha: “For the first time, he faces an opponent of an entirely different nature — love.
“A force as exhilarating as it is destabilising — and far more dangerous than anything he has encountered on the court.”
News of Romeo’s acting debut had been kept a closely guarded secretCredit: Instagram/@romeobeckhamRomeo and the family donning his new sportswear line, Intra, to mark the launchCredit: Instagram
Renowned French actress Catherine Deneuve has also been cast in the film, which will be released on November 25. Those close to Romeo say he is being quietly championed behind the scenes by David and Victoria, who are “beyond proud” of his new venture.
A source added: “David and Victoria have always supported all of their children. And seeing Romeo taking on his first big film is a huge moment for them. They couldn’t be more proud of him and what he has achieved.”
News of Romeo’s acting debut had been kept a closely guarded secret.
Work poured in for the youngster, who made his modelling debut for Burberry in 2012, aged ten.
In the months after his decision to step away from football, he walked on runways for Balenciaga, Burberry and Versace, before he was put forward for the role in Forty Love. Production started on the film last summer and wrapped late last year.
“Romeo didn’t want any fanfare around his new role, so he kept it very quiet,” an insider explained. “He wanted to get his head down and get his teeth into the character and focus on that as best he could.
“Romeo is used to playing a character on the catwalk — it’s why modelling is such a stepping stone for acting jobs because you are playing a role.
David Beckham had a cameo in Guy Ritchie’s King Arthur: Legend Of The SwordCredit: AlamyVictoria, here in 1997 film Spice World, was the first Beckham to hit the big screenCredit: Alamy
“His acting lessons made sure he felt confident and then he got to work.
“By all accounts, he loved the experience and it’s likely there will be more roles to come after Forty Love comes out.” Romeo will be following in his mum’s footsteps with his jump to the big screen.
Fashion designer Victoria was the first in the family to hit the big time in the Spice Girls film, Spice World, in 1997.
To date, it is the highest-grossing film of all time by a musical group, and in the US it broke the record for the highest-ever weekend debut for a Super Bowl weekend, with box office sales of more than £8million. Twenty years later, David followed suit with a small speaking role in Guy Ritchie’s King Arthur: Legend Of The Sword.
He said of breaking into films: “I am very aware that many sportsmen and other celebrities have turned their hand to acting and failed. I know it is a tough profession, where you need a huge amount of skill and discipline. I wouldn’t want to push myself forward too soon, without learning more about it and doing a lot more practice. But what I have done so far, I have loved.
“I can deal with most things. I am a well-known person, so I have gotten used to criticism. It was nerve-racking delivering the lines, but it actually went really well.
“The thing about sport is that it gets the heart beating faster.
“You focus the mind in order to deliver. Acting has a similar feel.”
Brooklyn, the eldest of the Beckham clan, demanded in January that his family only contact him through lawyersCredit: Getty
Romeo’s sister-in-law, Nicola Peltz, who is married to his estranged brother Brooklyn, works as an actress, too. But she has failed to make her mark on the industry.
Her directorial debut Lola, which she also starred in, came out to much fanfare two years ago. But it was savaged by critics and took just £480 at the box office.
Nicola was blasted for creating a film inspired by “poverty porn”, which a commentator said was “filled to the brim with underbaked, oftentimes harmful tropes”.
Undeterred by the failure, Nicola has spent the past few months filming Prima, which is a debut from famed photographers The Morelli Brothers.
The indie film will see Nicola playing a ballerina who is raised and coached by her grandmother, played by Faye Dunaway. Prima is expected to be released later this year, although no official date has been confirmed. Romeo, alongside the wider Beckham family, has had no meaningful contact with Brooklyn since he cut himself off last year.
Insiders joked Romeo was rivalling Nicola by entering the acting sphere, but conceded: “It’s hardly a competition.
“Romeo is carving out his own lane, just as he has done his entire career.”
Brooklyn, the eldest of the Beckham clan, demanded in January that his family only contact him through lawyers.
He later issued a blistering statement insisting he no longer wanted to be a part of the family.
His decision to cut himself off was hugely painful for the Beckhams, including his younger brother Cruz, 21, and his little sister Harper, 14, who was seen delivering a letter to the home he shares with Nicola in Los Angeles earlier this month.
A source said: “Brooklyn has made his position clear and the family have respected that.
“It’s painful for everyone involved.”
Romeo will be supported by family at the release of Forty Love, with promotional screenings being drawn up beforehand.
A source said: “David and Victoria are both so incredibly proud of Romeo.
“They know how hardworking he is and have supported him throughout this project.
“Romeo knows what he wants in life and will work hard to get it.”
LOOKING forward to a seaside staycation with the family this summer?
It can be hard to know where to book your next UK seaside holiday. With many Brits picking the same overcrowded spots, you can soon feel like you’re fighting for every square inch of sand on the beach.
You can stay in Wells-next-the-Sea in North Norfolk from £30 per nightCredit: AlamyOur Cornwall local recommends a trip to Boscastle, where you can walk to Willapark LookoutCredit: Getty
Luckily, there are plenty of off-the-radar stunning seaside towns and villages where you can enjoy a summer holiday without the crowds.
We’ve gathered travel insiders from Cornwall, Devon, Norfolk and Kent to share their favourite lesser-known holiday spots – with cheap pints, quiet beaches and stays from £30 a night.
Norfolk
Travel Reporter, Jenna Stevens
Jenna Stevens recommends visiting Wells-next-the-Sea for a traditional seaside breakCredit: Jenna Stevens
I grew up on the North West Norfolk coast, going quay jumping and crabbing after school with my friends.
Over the years, I’ve seen tourists flock to the same overcrowded spots time and again, while some of the prettiest towns and villages stay pretty much deserted.
While Cromer and Great Yarmouth make for great cheap and cheerful holidays, there are much prettier and less crowded options further west along the coast.
Wells-next-the-Sea is the picture-perfect seaside town. Walking down the high street, Staithe Street, feels like stepping back in time.
You’ll wander past an old-fashioned butcher’s, bakery and greengrocers on your downhill stroll towards the sea – plus plenty of trinket shops selling seashell earrings or buckets and spades.
The high street leads to the picturesque quay, where the Victorian Granary gantry jets out over the water, and you can watch fishermen haul in fresh catches throughout the day.
Here you’ll find the old-fashioned Pop Inn Amusements, a sweet shop selling giant lollies and classic sticks of rock, plus my favourite surfer dude-feel coffee shop, Wills of Wells.
Not to mention the fact that there’s a massive, golden, award-winning beach lined with colourful beach huts backed by a sprawling pine forest.
There’s a large beachside cafe too, plus you can stay by the sea at the Pinewoods Holiday Park, with camping and touring pitches from £30 per night.
While Wells is absolutely worth visiting, tourists have certainly caught on to its charm.
Further into West Norfolk, there are small towns and villages that offer true peace and quiet – where your only neighbours are grazing sheep.
Some of these best-kept secrets are Fring, Shernborne, Wolferton and Anmer.
They’re the kind of remote, rural villages perfect for a countryside walk where you won’t pass anyone but horse riders out on a hack.
You can bake your own bread at Bircham Windmill – and even camp on-siteCredit: Campsites..co.ukHand-feed the deer at Snettisham Park in West NorfolkCredit: Jenna stevens
Stay at nearby Bircham Windmill, where there are camping pitches for £36 a night.
In fact, this site makes for a fantastic family day out, where you can bake your own bread from scratch for £3.95 and climb up to the top of the mill for stunning views of the surrounding villages and fields.
Although it’s quiet, there’s plenty more to do nearby. Bottle feed lambs and hand feed deer at Snettisham Park, tour the royal grounds of Sandringham Estate, or sit down for a pint of local ale in the gloriously British pub The Rose and Crown.
Devon
Travel Reporter, Cyann Fielding
Travel Reporter Cyann Fielding recommends a stay at the new Hotel Indigo by IHG in TorquayCredit: Cyann Fielding
Devon or Cornwall? I’m here to tell you don’t need to look further than Devon – with fewer crowds, heaps of beaches and the quaintest of villages, nothing quite beats it.
As a born and bred Devonian, one spot I will always shout about is the English Riviera.
Formed of Torquay, Paignton and Brixham, the coastal towns boast an unusual micro-climate for the UK that has allowed palm trees to thrive.
Named after the French Riviera, you can expect a similar vibe but for a fraction of the price.
Stay at the newly opened £20 million seafront Hotel Indigo by IHG in Torquay from £74 per night (and there are dog-friendly rooms) – you can’t get closer to the sea with only a road separating you from the beach.
From the hotel, stroll down to Abbey Sands Beach, where you will find red-pink sand backed by a green area and the famous Torre Abbey, which you can visit for £11pp.
On the other side of Abbey Sands, walk around the harbour, which is currently under development to make it into a swish seaside hub of restaurants and cafes.
Drop by Pier Point for some fish and chips on the way – which are often voted best in the country.
The English Riviera in Devon comprises of Paignton, Brixham and TorquayCredit: Cyann FieldingVisit the beach at Woolacombe in North Devon for picturesque coastal viewsCredit: Getty
For more traditional and quieter seaside towns, head to Dawlish or Teignmouth, where you will find seaside arcades and cheap cafes selling freshly made Devonshire delicacies such as pasties and cream teas.
It’s not all about the seaside in Devon, though – Dartmoor National Park sprawls over 368-square-miles with over 160 rocky tors, ideal for lengthy country walks with dramatic views.
One of the most accessible spots is Haytor, where you can head up to the tor from a car park – and don’t worry, it isn’t too steep a climb – and then nearby check out Haytor Quarry, which appears frozen in time with disused machinery still present.
Keep an eye out for wild ponies too, of which there are about 1,500.
For a historic spot – head to Exeter – a university city with a sandstone cathedral and bustling high street.
The city even has links to Harry Potter as J.K. Rowling once studied there, and it is thought that she based Diagon Alley on Gandy Street in the city centre.
For another unique spot, pop to Totnes – a town that has often been noted for its hippie lifestyle, free of big brands and chains.
Drop by on a Friday or Saturday to catch the antiques and food market, for bargain finds and huge Lebanese wraps setting you back a tenner (but big enough for two!).
In the North of the county, head to Woolacombe for the perfect holiday park break.
You could head to Golden Coast Holiday Park, for example, which costs from £219 for a seven-night break for a family of four – so just £7.83 per person per night.
The beach stretches over three miles, and there is an abundance of holiday parks around the town, many of which have evening entertainment, hot tubs on chalet decks and indoor and outdoor pools.
Kent
Deputy Travel Editor, Kara Godfrey
Deputy Travel Editor Kara Godfrey recommends a trip to trendy Folkestone in KentCredit: Kara Godfrey
Kent has seen a huge resurgence in recent years, aided by the pandemic, which saw thousands of people leave the Big Smoke for sunnier and sandier climes.
As one of the many who did so, I’ve since lived in both Folkestone and Margate, which are both on the rise as trendy destinations.
(I have a soft spot for both Whitstable and Deal as well, although both are much more established seaside towns).
When it comes to Margate, there are two new boutique hotels, Fort Road Hotel and No.42 Guesthouse, which have opened in recent years, the latter of which has a fantastic rooftop bar in the summer.
I love heading to the George & Heart pub just outside of the Old Town, or Rose In June for a cosy pub pint.
If you want a bit of weird and wonderful, make sure to hit up the Shell Grotto – whose origin remains a mystery – or the Crab Museum, free to visit and the largest crab museum in Europe.
Both the Turner Museum and Dreamland are free too, so you can easily visit on a budget.
Folkestone is only a 52-minute train ride away from LondonCredit: GettyDeputy Travel Editor Kara Godfrey has lived across Kent in towns like Margate and BroadstairsCredit: Kara Godfrey – Commissioned by The Sun
The tidal lido is worth the trek, and you’ll be joined more by locals than tourists, but hop in before warming up with a coffee and sauna session.
It’s 52 minutes by train from London; you’ll never have to fight for space on the massive beach; it has the UK’s biggest beach sauna; it has so much art, including a Banksy – the hooks are endless.
Live music takes place at the Harbour Arms most weekends, and I highly recommend the Sunset Sessions at The Tasting Rooms for three courses and live jazz for £35.
Chase it with some oysters and a glass of champagne in The Lighthouse Champagne Bar – and you can even see France on a clear day.
Perhaps controversial, but even the touristy Good Yard food market is well worth a visit. No tourist traps here!
Katy Bright recommends visiting Strawberry Fields Lifton, particularly for their Tulip FestCredit: katy bright
Growing up in Cornwall, I’ve always had plenty of pretty places to explore. If I had to plan the perfect day in my home county, here are some places I would not miss.
Start the day off right with one of the best breakfasts around. Bude cafe The Coffee Pot offers £5 breakfasts with bacon, eggs, sausages and a hash brown, which cannot be faulted.
I may be biased, but I think Boscastle truly is one of the most beautiful places in the UK.
It’s a peaceful seaside sanctuary with a fascinating witchy history and beautiful walks, such as the one to Willapark Lookout.
Plus, it offers some of the best pub grub around – you’ve got to try the Cobweb Inn’s steak and ale pie (£13.95). Wash it down with a traditional Cornish ale.
Many tourists, of course, flock here, so it is important to learn to avoid the tourist traps.
Newquay, one of the most popular holiday destinations in Cornwall, is just way too busy during school breaks.
If you’d like to visit, I would definitely recommend going outside of the school summer holidays, when it is quieter, and the queues are much less manic.
If you are a coffee or matcha fanatic, Blend makes some of the best drinks I’ve ever tasted. Their banana bread iced matcha is a personal favourite of mine.
Katy recommends trips to Boscastle, Bude, Trebarwith Strand and Whitsand BayCredit: katy brightGrab an iced banana bread matcha from Blend in NewquayCredit: katy bright
Something we all look for in a holiday to Cornwall is the best spots with a pint and a view – and my top pick for this is Trebarwith Strand’s, Port William.
A pub perched over the sea, it even offers cosy rooms for guests to stay in.
If you visit between mid-April and early May, you’ll be in my home county for one of my favourite events of the year.
Although it sits right on the border of Cornwall and Devon (so some may be a bit offended by me putting it in this list!) Strawberry Field Lifton’s ‘Tulip Fest’ makes for a very wholesome day out.
Picture a field full of half a million multicoloured tulip bulbs. There is something about walking around a field of endless tulips that just feels so whimsical.
An underrated place to stay is Whitsand Bay Fort holiday park. It’s very highly rated in online reviews, and it’s no surprise to me as a local – this is one of the best places to stay around.
Open all year, it offers both rooms and tent pitches with amazing views of Whitsand Bay. Pitches start at £15 a night, making it a super affordable and proper Cornish alternative to other popular places to stay.
DISNEYLAND is a place where everyone can enjoy a bit of magic, but hidden behind its world famous rides and queues of exhausted families is a top secret club that most guests have no idea exists.
Club 33 originally opened in Disneyland California, although can also be found in Disney World, Tokyo Disneyland and Shanghai Disneyland now too.
Sign up for the Travel newsletter
Thank you!
The secret club is hidden away behind rides at DisneylandCredit: AlamyClub 33 in invite-only and membership can cost thousandsCredit: .Former Playmate Holly Madison recently shared a peak inside the clubCredit: InstagramShe enjoyed an Alice in Wonderland themed afternoon teaCredit: Instagram
But don’t get too excited – the club is incredibly exclusive and the only way to join is if you receive an invite.
It’s even suggested that there is a waiting list of up to 10 years, which was reportedly closed in 2007 after it became so long, before reopening in 2012.
Found on 33 Orleans Street, the speakeasy style club can be found behind a blue door with a discreet 33 address plate at the entrance, for those in the know.
Walt Disney died a year before the club was finishedCredit: Getty – ContributorInside there’s a swanky restaurant and bar with champagne and caviarCredit: .Katy Perry was spotted inside the very exclusive barCredit: XRebel Wilson has also been spotted at the private members clubCredit: Instagram
The members-only club was founded by Walt Disney, who based the club on his travel adventures with his wife Lillian, although he died a year before the club opened in 1967.
Inside is just as lush as you’d expect, with wood-panelled private dining lounges, swanky baroque wallpaper and various Victorian curios that Walt personally collected from antique shops.
In fact, the restaurant is one of the only places visitors can bag some booze in the park.
And for film fanatics, props from classics like Mary Poppins are inside, including original drawings on the wall.
But all of this will cost you.
Initiation fees are believed to range between $25,000 (£19,200) and $50,000 (£38,000).
How many Disney locations are there around the world?
DISNEY parks are located in several countries around the world. Here’s the list of countries with Disney parks:
United States
Disneyland Resort (Anaheim, California)
Walt Disney World Resort (Orlando, Florida)
France
Disneyland Paris (Marne-la-Vallée, near Paris)
Japan
Tokyo Disney Resort (Urayasu, near Tokyo)
China
Shanghai Disney Resort (Shanghai)
Hong Kong Disneyland Resort (Hong Kong)
Then there is the annual fee, which can be as much as $30,000 (£23,000).
The membership, however, gets you some extra perks such as day passes for guests, private VIP tours, exclusive merchandise and free hotel room upgrades.
You also can’t go to more than one of the Club 33s around the world, as each membership is exclusive to each club.
There is one place in the club you can visit without your own membership, although you do need to know someone who does have one to take you.
The Salon Nouveau Lounge is known for it’s posh caviar appetizers as well as burgers and champagne, so if you know someone lucky enough to have access the club 33, you could try it out.
Meanwhile, for members only, there is Le Grande Salon which has set menu costing upwards of £100, but can reportedly include options such as scallops and steak tartare.
And for those wanting to spend the night, there’s the Disneyland Dream Suite, which sits above the next-door Pirates of the Caribbean ride.
Walt had his own apartment on Main Street in the park, but it was decided there needed to be a bigger spot to host Disney’s VIP guests, away from the hustle and bustle of the crowds.
The club is one of the only places guests can buy alcohol in the parkCredit: .The interior of the club is full of film and ride memorabiliaCredit: .
The more specific details of the elusive club are scarce, mostly because members are told not to ever share the club’s secrets.
Florida-based Disney travel experts Simon and Susan Veness previously told the Telegraph: “The level of secrecy around Club 33 is quite startling, but it has been there since the club’s earliest days, and it continues to be a Disney parks anomaly today.
“For somewhere that is never slow to promote its rides and attractions, this ultra-expensive ‘insiders’ club’ is distinctly incongruous and out of step with the general pixie dust nature of the theme parks.”
However, some guests have shared a sneak peak inside the club.
This week former Playboy star Holly Madison took to Instagram to post some snaps from the balcony of the club.
“Club 33 Alice in Wonderland tea was divine,” she captioned the alluring snaps which showed her sat a linen-covered table with Mad Hatter plates, Alice in Wonderland-themed snacks and over huge floral displays.
Bragging about having club 33 membership comes with it’s risks though as one couple even ended up taking Disney to court after losing their membership.
The couple, from the US, said they had paid as much as $124,000 (£94,000) a year to visit the theme parks, sometimes visiting as much as 80 times a year.
Celebs like Tom Hanks and Rebel Wilson are reportedly membersCredit: .Holly posed inside the club’s sun-soaked courtyardCredit: Instagram
However, they were taken off the membership list after the park claimed they had both behaved badly, being both intoxicated and swearing – something they both refute.
Back in 2015 Joseph Cosgrove allegedly lost his membership when he allowed a friend to auction off his passes.
According to Disneyland spokeswoman Suzi Brown, Joseph had “repeatedly transferred and sold their membership privileges,” which meant the park was “left with no other choice in order to preserve the integrity of membership.”
Celebrities aren’t immune to having their membership revoked either; a Pitch Perfect actress claimed she was suspended from the club for taking a secret picture in the club’s bathroom, she revealed on The Daily Show in 2023.
But all the mystery around the club has only made it more intriguing for Disney fans over the years, with thousands of social media posts on the topic of the secret spot popping up every week.
MOLLIE’S is the brand that’s making budget travel chic.
There’s only one problem with its new Manchester site… it’s so fun that you won’t want to leave. So here’s everything you need to know about staying there.
Sign up for the Travel newsletter
Thank you!
There are several room styles including bunks and doublesCredit: Unknown
Where is Mollie’s Manchester?
Unlike its two sister hotels in Oxfordshire and Bristol – both of which sit roadside and a short drive from the main hub of the city – the Manchester joint is slap bang in the city centre, close to the upmarket Deansgate area.
It’s a 15 or so minute walk from Manchester Piccadilly train station.
What’s it like?
This is the first hotel in the budget-luxe chain not to operate as a motel and has a slightly more sophisticated feel to it.
You’ll likely spot locals popping in for coffee on their way to the shops, or mooching about in the very stylish lobby-cum-cafe where the atmosphere is reminiscent of a cool, unstuffy members club.
All have the exact same Scandi-esque look no matter which county you’re staying in – think light wooden panels and eccentric lamps.
The Manchester hotel features a couple of roomier options like the Studio, which comes with a lounge and freestanding tub, and several giant suites that boast a proper kitchen and living room plus an in-room Peloton bike.
Other options include doubles, twins and four-person bunk rooms.
Mollie’s diner serves American grub including fricklesCredit: Supplied
What is there to eat and drink?
The American-style motel theme runs strong in the kitchen, with a knock-out menu of burgers, hot dogs and milkshakes at the onsite diner.
Dishes are filling so make sure to come hungry.
I tried the frickles – fried pickles – which came with a zingy dipping sauce and reminded me of the ones I ate in America’s Deep South.
Brekkie is a similar affair: pancakes stacked high and dripping in maple syrup and fry-ups that are piled with some of the best hash browns I’ve ever eaten – fluffy inside, wonderfully crispy on the outside.
What else is there to do?
The hotel has a cool, unstuffy members club feel to itCredit: Supplied
Don’t forget to book yourself into the downstairs cocktail bar where the atmosphere is sexy and sultry.
Studio IV rather accurately describes itself as a “lively living room” – plush velvet sofas are framed around a stage where DJs and jazz musicians perform.
It’s got somewhat of a secret speakeasy vibe to it, with dark corners to cosy up in and space for people to boogie.
The cocktails are very fun and staff are extremely attentive.
How much is Mollie’s Manchester?
Rooms cost from £90 per night.
Rooms are well decorated in a Scandi styleCredit: Supplied
Is it family friendly?
Yes, very much so.
There are plenty of adjoining rooms with twin and double options, as well as bunk rooms that are great for families with more than two kids.
There’s a children’s menu at the diner and games in the lobby that kids will love
Is there access for guests with disabilities?
Yes there are accessible rooms and toilets in the public areas, as well as lifts to all floors.