smallest

WHO can say no to a Wetherspoons? And what if I told you the smallest one in the world is just as good as the rest, if not better.

Not only is it the smallest Spoons, but it is also in a rather bizarre location – a train station.

Of course, some UK airports have Wetherspoons, but I have never come across one in a train station before.

Sat at one end of Cannon Street Station in London, you will find the Sir John Hawkshaw, complete with just 42 tables.

Whilst that might sound a lot, compared to the usual London Spoons, this is considerably less.

And the obscurities about this spot just continue – if you need to use the toilet, well then you’ll need to head to the other end of the station and down a set of stairs.

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I tested out the journey myself, and it took me around one minute (no good if you’re desperate!).

For those who love to train spot, sit outside on the terrace, which is essentially like sitting on one of the platforms.

The boozer opened back in 2014 and is named after one of the co-designers of the original station building, which first opened in 1866.

Inside, it does have a more cosy feel than most Wetherspoons pubs I have visited.

With Halloween fast approaching, the interior was decked out with cobwebs and pumpkins.

But keen to experience the pub-slash-train-station experience, I opted for a table on the terrace to enjoy my nachos.

Despite its small size, the pub still features Spoons’ extensive menu and the service isn’t impacted either.

To learn more about the pub, look for a blue plaque on the veranda.

It states: “The station had eight platforms under a single span arch roof.

“Far below the station are the remains of a Roman palace, built in the first century.”

At another point, the ‘Steelyard’ was used by German and Flemish merchants.

However, in 1666, it was then destroyed during the Great Fire of London.

A quarter of a century later, and the Company of Plumbers built their Livery Hall on the site, which remained there until the 1860s.

I sat peacefully enjoying my chips, nachos, chicken strips and raspberry lemonade, coming to a grand total of £18.

Whilst eating I noticed how the pub also has a unique soundtrack – clinking glasses mixed with the clack-clack of trains running over metal rails.

In all, I found myself feeling like I was in a quiet bubble in the middle of the hustle and bustle of commuters and tourists.

It felt as if I was in an airport, enjoying a drink whilst people watching – but with no pressure that I was going to miss my flight.

For the tired and sore commuter, this spot is ideal for a post meeting drink, before hopping on a Southeastern train home.

And of course, in typical Spoons style, your pocket won’t be stretched either.

Whilst to most, this may feel like another typical Wetherspoons spot, it somehow manages to fit all the character you get with Spoons into a small venue.

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For Wetherspoons fans, there is also good news as a new location has opened inside an abandoned UK attraction.

Plus, take a look inside the best-loved Wetherspoons in the UK from converted theatres to underground bank vaults.

When it comes to short haul flights, the seat width is between 17 and 18 inches which may not sound like much – but that extra inch can make a lot of difference.

You’re all set for your dream holiday, breezed through security and about to board the aeroplane when you spot it: a tiny middle seat that’s going to be your home for the duration of your flight.

Thankfully, there’s now a method to determine which budget airline offers the widest seats, ensuring you don’t have to compromise on comfort.

Last year, Which? did the maths to identify which airlines offer the most spacious seats, helping you get the best value for your money.

For short haul flights, the seat width (the distance between each armrest) typically ranges from 17 to 18 inches, which might not seem like a significant difference, reports the Express.

However, that additional inch can make a world of difference when you’re crammed in like sardines.

According to the experts, the airlines offering the widest economy seats include Wizz Air, TAP Portugal, easyJet and Lufthansa, all boasting widths of 18 inches.

This leaves airlines like Aer Lingus, Loganair, Jet2 and Norwegian with the narrowest seat widths, which can all be as low as 17 inches. Below is a breakdown of airline seat width and legroom in inches.

If you’re looking to maximise space on your budget flight without shelling out extra cash, there are a few tricks you can employ.

One hack is to book a seat in the bulkhead – the seats located directly behind the partitions, curtains or screens that divide the plane. With no seats in front, you’ll have enough room to stretch your legs.

However, these can be a bit narrower if tray tables are stowed in the armrest.

If a bulkhead doesn’t take your fancy, opt for a seat towards the back of the plane where they taper. This could occasionally result in fewer seats in a row – but naturally, you might find yourself next to the loo queue which can be somewhat disruptive.

If you’re on a flight that’s already airborne and you spot extra vacant seats, you can always politely ask the cabin crew if it would be possible to switch.

Remember, if you don’t ask, you won’t get – and provided you’re polite, there’s a likelihood they will accommodate your request.

If you have additional requirements that would benefit from more room, such as being tall or pregnant, you’ve got a better chance of being relocated to a more spacious area.

St David’s is the UK’s smallest city, but don’t let that fool your

The UK’s tiniest city, nestled in the heart of Pembrokeshire on the Welsh coast, is actually a charming village brimming with history and natural beauty.

St David’s, a cathedral city named after Wales’s patron saint, Saint David, is where his final resting place is located. Its city status was traditionally granted due to its grand cathedral, believed to have been constructed between 1180 and 1182.

It remains a lesser-known coastal treasure amongst UK holidaymakers.

However, those willing to embark on a few hours’ drive through Wales’s rolling green hills to the edge of the west coast will be pleasantly surprised by what this small town has to offer. St Davids’ allure lies in its rich history, being home to one of Wales’ most iconic religious sites and a pilgrimage destination for centuries.

Tourists can freely explore the cathedral, and its grounds provide an idyllic setting for a leisurely stroll on a sunny day. Despite attracting numerous visitors throughout the year, the area maintains much of its understated charm, remaining surprisingly quiet and compact, reports the Express.

Beyond the historical landmarks of the cathedral and the original gothic ruins of Bishop’s Palace, St Davids boasts a plethora of scenic walks and swimming spots for nature enthusiasts. This quaint, cobbled town is not only home to a stunning stretch of beach but also offers cliff-side walks and hikes.

Whitesands Beach stands as the principal expanse of pristine white sand in the region, sweeping northward towards St Davids headland and serving as one of the nation’s renowned surfing destinations.

It’s ideal for days spent constructing sandcastles, basking in the sunshine, or taking a refreshing dip.

For those seeking more thrilling pursuits, windsurfing and kayaking prove particularly popular pastimes.

One delighted TripAdvisor reviewer said: “What an absolutely phenomenal beach. The beach itself is so clean; the water was crystal clear, and there was no seaweed. You can go out for quite a way, and it was just unbelievable.

“The family loved it and couldn’t believe how quiet it was, and even when it got a little busier later in the day, it was still so pleasant, and this is all before the walks. The mountain walks around the beach were quite simply breathtaking. Some lovely places tucked away; we even found a cove we had all to ourselves.”

For those wanting to venture even deeper into Pembrokeshire’s stunning landscape, there’s a concealed gem called Porthmelgan Beach, merely a 20-minute stroll from Whitesands Bay.

This rather more isolated location boasts equally brilliant white sands but tends to be considerably quieter, with no parking facilities, eateries or wave riders to be found. Another gem is the Blue Lagoon, a 20-minute drive from the city centre, boasting turquoise waters and rocky landscapes.

It’s the perfect spot for a peaceful swim, a relaxing kayak ride or even a daring cliff dive, all while enjoying stunning coastal views.

Venturing back into the city’s charming cobbled streets, you’ll find a handful of pubs that quickly fill up in the summer with patrons enjoying their post-walk pints. These establishments often feature live music in the evenings, creating a lively atmosphere, and serve traditional pub food.

However, it’s worth noting that without a reservation, you might struggle to secure a cosy spot.

As with any seaside town, St Davids boasts numerous ice cream parlours and a mix of independent shops and larger brands in the city centre. So when you’ve had your fill of coastal walks, a stroll through the city streets and a browse through the shops can provide a refreshing change of pace.

That title of UK’s smallest city goes to St Davids, which is tucked away in the picturesque landscape of Pembrokeshire, Wales. It is officially the smallest city in the United Kingdom, covering just 0.23 square miles

A city that’s smaller than most villages packs well above its weight class when it comes to visitor numbers.

There are a few places in the UK that have won their place in the hearts of pub quiz question setters due to their smallness. The country’s smallest county? Rutland. The country’s smallest town? Fordwich. The country’s smallest city?

That honour goes to St Davids, which is tucked away in the picturesque landscape of Pembrokeshire, Wales. It is officially the smallest city in the United Kingdom, covering just 0.23 square miles (0.6 km²) and with a population of just over 1,600 people. It comes after images show the cheapest seaside spot in England is full of abandoned £40k homes ‘nobody wants’.

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It feels more like a charming village than a bustling city. Yet, because of its historic cathedral, St Davids has held city status since the 12th century. Mickledore, a travel company specializing in self-guided walking tours, notes that “St Davids is one of those places that surprises first-time visitors. Many expect a city to mean rows of shops and busy streets, yet here, the atmosphere is peaceful, the pace is slow, and the main tourist area can be fully explored in around half a day. It’s the kind of place where you can explore every corner without feeling rushed.”

The definition of a “city” in the UK is not always based on population size. Instead, it often depends on historical or ceremonial importance. St Davids was granted its city status because of its cathedral, which has been a major site of pilgrimage for centuries.

Pilgrims travelled here from across Europe during the Middle Ages to pay homage to St David, the patron saint of Wales. The site became so important that two pilgrimages to St Davids were once said to equal one to Rome, and three equalled a pilgrimage to Jerusalem. Not a bad trade off if you don’t fancy leaving the country or making the 3,000 mile walk to the Middle Easte holy city.

Although St Davids briefly lost its official recognition as a city in 1886, Queen Elizabeth II formally restored its city status in 1995, ensuring its place on the map as the UK’s smallest city.

One of the delights of St Davids is its walkability. The core area — including the cathedral, Bishop’s Palace, shops, and cafés — can be explored at a relaxed pace in roughly half a day. The compact scale makes it an ideal destination for travellers who want a leisurely visit without the stress of navigating a sprawling urban space.

Instead of traffic and high-rises, visitors find narrow streets, independent shops, small galleries, and cafés where local produce takes centre stage. The city’s scale allows tourists to take their time, wander slowly, and really absorb the atmosphere.

For those who want more, the Pembrokeshire Coast Path, part of the 186-mile-long trail that skirts the county, is just minutes away. Walkers are rewarded with dramatic sea cliffs, golden beaches, and opportunities for wildlife spotting, from grey seals basking on the rocks to rare seabirds nesting in the cliffs. Note: While the main city area can be explored in half a day, venturing along the coastal paths can take several hours or a full day, depending on the chosen route.

At the heart of St Davids is its cathedral, founded in the 12th century and still a place of worship today. Built in a hollow to protect it from Viking raiders, it remains far larger and more imposing than most visitors expect for such a tiny city. The cathedral houses centuries-old treasures, carved oak stalls, and an organ that fills the space with music during regular concerts.

Nearby, the Bishop’s Palace — now a dramatic ruin — tells the story of the city’s medieval importance. Its crumbling arches and towers give a glimpse into the grandeur of St Davids when it was at the centre of Welsh religious life.

Unlike larger cities where historic buildings are often hidden between modern developments, St Davids preserves a sense of history in almost every street. Stone cottages, medieval ruins, and chapels stand alongside art galleries and modern craft shops, creating a seamless blend of past and present.

Though remote, St Davids is accessible via Haverfordwest (about 16 miles away), which has rail links to Swansea, Cardiff, and beyond. Buses connect Haverfordwest with St Davids, making it reachable even for those without a car. Tourism is a vital part of the local economy, with thousands of visitors each year drawn by the city’s cathedral, coast, and charm.

For travellers seeking something unique, St Davids offers the novelty of being in a city that doesn’t feel like one. There are no skyscrapers, no traffic jams, and no endless suburbs — just a cathedral, a few streets, and a stunning coastal backdrop.

This makes it especially popular with those looking for a short but memorable trip. Families, walkers, and history enthusiasts all find something to enjoy, whether it’s wandering the cathedral grounds, sampling Welsh cakes in a café, or setting off on a clifftop walk.

Tom Pike, 28, from Hackney, London had been on holiday in Menorca with a friend earlier this month when he came across an extremely small armrest on his Jet2 flight home

A holidaymaker was left in stitches on board a Jet2 flight back to the UK from Spain after he was given “the world’s smallest armrest”.

Tom Pike could not believe what he was seeing when he took his seat on the Menorca to London Stansted Airport flight on Sunday, August 10. The 28-year-old, who was perched next to the window, buckled his seatbelt and went to get comfy but immediately noticed the size of the armrest on his right hand side.

The passenger was left puzzled at the size of the armrest, with Tom reacting by simply bursting into laughter. Along with his friend Isabella Michel, the pair concluded that they had never seen one “this small” before.

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In hilarious footage captured on board the flight, which was due to last two and a half hours, Tom attempted to use the “1.5-inch” armrest. The holidaymaker, who paid £200 for the flight, flipped the armrest down – but it made little to no difference.

Tom’s arm engulfs the armrest with it essentially only big enough for his elbow. “Nothing beats a Jet2 holiday,” Isabella can be heard saying in the footage, in reference to the company’s well-known slogan.

Fortunately for the pair they had a whole row of three seats to themselves on the flight back home. This allowed Tom to move into the middle seat and make use of the extra space.

“I have never had one this small before,” Tom, a financial services worker from Hackney, north London, told Luxury Travel Daily. “It was maybe 1.5 inches long.

“We immediately burst into laughter. I didn’t make a complaint on the flight; luckily, I was able to move to the middle seat. I can think of a lot that beats a Jet2 holiday.”

Jet2 has been in the headlines quite a bit in recent months, largely due to the virality of its ads. To the soundtrack of Jess Glynne’s hit song Hold My Hand, potential customers are told “nothing beats a Jet2 holiday” and that phrase has gained lots of momentum this summer.

So much so that the sound has featured as part of a number of spoof remakes, including one posted by the White House promoting deportation. The video shows people being handcuffed and escorted on to a plane, alongside the caption: “When ICE books you a one-way Jet2 holiday to deportation. Nothing beats it!”

Jet2 responded by saying it does not endose the video, while Glynne said the social media post made her feel “sick”. A spokesperson for Jet2. said: “Our branding has become something of a viral phenomenon this summer and we are pleased to see how many people have used it in good humour.

“This has put a smile on many people’s faces, just like our holidays do. We are of course aware of a post from the White House social media account. This is not endorsed by us in any way, and we are very disappointed to see our brand being used to promote government policy such as this.”

Nueva Tabarca is the smallest inhabited island in Spain and sits off the coast of Alicante. It has become increasingly popular with locals, who descend on the tiny strip of land in huge numbers

Each day, thousands of tourists descend on a tiny Spanish island that is creaking under the strain.

Despite sitting just a few km off the coast of Alicante, and technically being part of the Spanish resort which has long been beloved by British holidaymakers, few non-locals make it to the island of Nueva Tabarca.

At 1,800m long and 400m wide, and home to 68 permanent residents, Tabarca is the smallest inhabited island in Spain. It also one with a colourful history, as the location where St. Paul (possibly) disembarked and as a long-time refuge for pirates.

In recent years, more and more people have been hopping on Ferry Azul boats that sail there from the mainland, enjoying the shoals of little fish that cluster around its glass sides on the way over.

When they get there, they are typically confronted with the same realisation. “It’s a lot smaller than I thought. When they said it was a small island…it’s like, tiny,” said Sante, who recently visited Tabarca with his wife.

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This is a particularly problem as up to 5,000 people descend on Tabarca each day during the high season, swelling the full-time population by 30 times. From 10am to 9pm, the one main street on the island becomes packed with visitors, who leave as quickly as they arrive in the evening.

According to Carmen Martí, president of the neighborhood association, “the problem isn’t tourists.” She recently told El Pais that the much bigger issue is infrastructure.

“There are no public restrooms, no shaded areas, tourist attractions, such as the church or the vaults of the wall, are closed, the tower is in ruins,” she lamented.

Medical assistance on the island is very slim, which is a problem given the lack of lifeguards on the beach for much of the year, and the scorching temperatures. With a surface area barely 15 meters above sea level and no trees other than a few palm trees, there is no shelter from the sun on the island.

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Carmen says locals have pushed the authorities to help them improve the island, but haven’t received much assistance. “We’ve presented plans for a rest area to the town hall so that young people don’t have to eat and rest sitting on the town’s sidewalks, but they’ve ignored it,” she said.

The issues stem, in part, from the fact that Tabarca falls between two administrations, with several administrative roles on the island lying unfilled for years. That, coupled with its offshore remoteness, means it does not always get the attention locals believe it deserves.

They say that municipal infrastructure, offices, warehouses, and even the museum, which is barely 20 years old, are in terrible condition. Roofs are corroded by salt, premises are propped up, and the museum is closed as a precaution.

Yet despite all of these issues, and the presence of angry seagulls that have a habit of attacking beachgoers, people continue to come. They do so because of the beautiful beaches and the clear waters, which are protected by Spain’s first marine reserve, declared in 1986.

Wells might be England’s smallest city, but it’s bursting with charm and history. From its stunning cathedral to the medieval Bishop’s Palace, there’s plenty to explore

Don’t let its size fool you – England’s smallest city, Wells, may be compact but it’s brimming with history and allure. The city’s quaint architecture and winding cobbled streets are the epitome of a storybook setting. The quirky name of this hidden gem is derived from the springs found in the Bishop’s Palace grounds.

Nestled within a stone’s throw of Bristol, Bath and Cardiff, Wells is an often-missed treasure by holidaymakers, yet those who venture to this petite cathedral city on the River Brue in Somerset are never left underwhelmed. Wells Cathedral stands as a beacon of historical splendour and architectural genius, making it an essential stop for any visitor to the city.

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As one of the UK’s most magnificent Gothic cathedrals, it boasts stunning design and medieval artistry. Its construction spanned from 1175 to 1490, earning it accolades as “the most poetic of the English Cathedrals.”

Not only famous for its striking West Front, but Wells Cathedral also features distinctive elements that distinguish it from other cathedrals across England, such as the mesmerising ‘scissor arches’ that prop up the central tower.

These were ingeniously installed in 1338 when the addition of a hefty spire threatened to bring down the entire structure, reports the Express. The Cathedral is home to one of the largest collections of historic stained glass in the country.

The Jesse Window at Wells Cathedral, considered by experts as one of the most magnificent examples of 14th century stained glass in Europe, narrowly avoided destruction during the English Civil War.

Additionally, the Cathedral proudly showcases the renowned Wells Clock, believed to be the second oldest clock mechanism in Great Britain. It also houses the intriguing octagonal Chapter House and one of only four chained libraries in the UK.

Other must-visit attractions in this beautiful city include The Bishop’s Palace and Gardens in Wells, which has been the residence of the Bishops of Bath and Wells for over 800 years. This breathtaking medieval palace is now open for public enjoyment.

It offers a fantastic family day out in Somerset with a full calendar of events throughout the year, complimentary guided walks, outdoor music and theatre, garden workshops and more.

Plus, a slice of cake with afternoon tea at the ever-popular Bishop’s Table café is always a treat! Since the 1800s, the palace’s moat has been home to mute swans, with the tradition of swans on the moat thought to date back to the 1850s.

Legend has it that a Bishop’s daughter may have initially taught the swans to ring a bell at the Gatehouse when they were hungry. Today, two swan bells are installed, with ropes for the swans to pull to signal for food.

There are 14 acres of stunning RHS Partner gardens to discover, including the beautiful well pools from which the city derives its name, the medieval Palace building equipped with multimedia audio visual guides, Dragon’s Lair play area, guided tours, children’s trails and workshops, and a café boasting the best views in Wells.

Adjacent to the Cathedral is Vicars’ Close, believed to be the only complete medieval street remaining in England. This significant landmark was designed to provide communal accommodation for the Vicars Choral, who performed daily worship within the Cathedral.

This centuries-old tradition continues today and is a unique and much valued part of life at Wells Cathedral. The houses of the close, all Grade I listed, were constructed in the 14th century under the direction of Bishop Ralph of Shrewsbury, and the iconic chimneys were added in the 15th century.

Originally, 42 houses were built (one per vicar), but some were combined following the Reformation when vicars were permitted to marry.

Today, the Close comprises 27 residences, a chapel, library, treasury and muniment room. There is also a dining hall connected to the Cathedral by a covered walkway, the Chain Gate Bridge.

The current occupants still include all twelve men of the Vicars Choral, plus the organists and virgers. Vicars Choral have remained at the heart of life at Wells Cathedral since the 1100s and are now recognised as a world-class choir.

For food lovers, Wells boasts a historic market in Wells Market Place. This lively square, surrounded by stunning historical architecture, offers a perfect snapshot into the everyday life of Wells that has remained virtually unchanged for centuries.

Today, a bustling market is held twice a week – on Wednesdays and Saturdays – featuring local produce and goods. The square also hosts a larger street food festival annually, with the next Wells Food Festival scheduled for Sunday, 12 October 2025.

Additionally, a funfair is held twice a year, adding to the vibrant atmosphere of the market. Wells also has an abundance of independent bookshops and boutiques, as well as antique and vintage shops, ensuring hours of browsing pleasure.