Staycation tips and ideas

IF you’re planning a trip to the Cotswolds, one of the most popular areas is the ‘Golden Triangle’.

Not to be confused with the Indian Golden Triangle (covering New Delhi, Agra and Jaipur) the Golden Triangle of the Cotswolds covers three of the most popular towns.

In between these towns are the famous fancy attractions such as Soho Farmhouse and Daylesford organic farm shop.

The first town is Chipping Norton, which is where a number of famous celebs live.

Nicknamed the Chipping Norton set, this includes the Beckhams, Jeremy Clarkson and Kate Moss.

This is also where you will find Clarkson’s farm Diddly Squat although pop into The Chequers pub and you might pop into David Beckham.

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Otherwise the town has the Chipping Norton lido, with two heated outdoor pools, as well as the National Trust owned Chastleton house.

The second location in the Cotswolds Golden Triangle is Stow-on-the-Wold.

Not only is it said to be one of the UK’s prettiest towns but it also claims to have the most photographed door.

A door of St Edward’s Church is rumoured to have inspired Lord of The Rings author J.R.R Tolkien’s book Doors Of Durin.

Stow-on-the-Wold is also home to The Porch House, one of the oldest inns in the country.

Dating back to 947AD, it is now a five star hotel.

And finally, the third place that makes up the Golden Triangle is Burford.

The small town’s main shops are found on one long hill, and they’re mainly independent sellers.

Try the Burford Sweet Shop for some sweet treats or Huffkins for some afternoon tea.

Otherwise the other celeb-heavy spot is Burford Garden Centre, often said to be one of the fancies garden centres in the UK.

Beyonce and Jay Z were rumoured to have been spotted there before.

While not in the Golden Triangle, the nearby town of Witney is home to one of the world’s best hotels called Estelle Manor.

Here’s another place called the “capital of the Cotswolds”.

And we spoke to a Cotswolds expert to get her top tips on how to visit on a budget.

THE first ever Bluey rollercoaster in the world is coming to the UK this week.

The new ride will be part of CBeebies Land at Alton Towers.

Called “Bluey the Ride: Here Come the Grannies!”, the ride will let both adults and kids hop in a carriage behind Bluey and Bingo.

It’s based on the episode where they dress up a grannies Janet and Rita to cause trouble.

The ride is made for younger riders, specifically for preschoolers.

Meet and greets with all the characters is also possible at the park, which includes Chilli, Bandit, Bluey and Bingo.

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Future plans include more Bluey-themed hotel rooms too, with one already at the CBeebies Land Hotel.

Howard Ebison, Vice President of Alton Towers Resort said: “It’s exciting to be able to give eager fans and families an official first-look at our newest attraction Bluey the Ride: Here Come the Grannies! this spring at Alton Towers Resort. 

“This first glimpse of the ride shows what promises to be an exciting experience for the whole family – from little ones to grandparents – which bring the limitless energy of Bluey to life.” 

The new rollercoaster opens on March 28.

Sun writer, Hannah Ferrett, recently stayed in one of the Bluey rooms that are already open at Alton Towers.

She said: “The kids slept in Bluey and Bingo’s room, complete with bunk beds, the recognisable watermelon rug and the cartoon dogs’ pretty Himalayan rock salt night light — a nice touch for little ones.

“My partner Dan and I were in Bandit and Chilli’s room, which had a king size bed, TV and lots of pictures of Bluey and Bingo as puppies, much to the delight of our kids.”

“Even the bathroom had pictures of Bluey and her sister plastered across the walls.”

Also new at the park are the world-first Hey Duggee themed hotel rooms.

And here are some other new lands and rides coming to theme parks this year.

IF you fancy a quiet escape off the coast of the UK, then an island is about to become much easier to get to.

The L-shaped Rathlin Island is six miles off County Antrim in Northern Ireland and is home to just 140 residents.

It does get busier during tourist season with holidaymakers hopping over on the ferry – which will relaunch for spring.

And there’s even more on offer with new weekend sailings starting up.

Once on the island, the main port and beach is where you’ll arrive.

Called Church Bay, it’s a small harbour with a gravel shoreline where visitors can spot seals and also check out the island’s only pub.

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McCuaig’s Bar sits opposite the bay with an adjoining Ebb and Flow Cafe.

The walls of the bar are decorated with name places from ships that have been wrecked around Rathlin.

In total, there have been over 40 shipwrecks off the coast of Rathlin Island.

The island itself has three lighthouses which are needed because of Rathlin’s unique shape.

It’s on the western tip of Rathlin Island where you’ll find the ‘upside down’ lighthouse.

It was built into the cliff face back in 1912 and has been there to guide in boats and ships ever since.

While it’s not actually upside down, the lighthouse has its lantern room at the bottom of the tower rather than the top – which is traditional.

The reason is that when it guides ships in, the light isn’t obscured by fog that usually settles at the top of the cliff.

The island isn’t just popular for tourists seeking a quiet getaway as it’s also a nature reserve for seabirds.

So you’ll be able to spot razorbills, kittiwakes and puffins.

During the spring and summertime, some of the most popular activities include heading to Knockans viewpoint.

On a clear day, from here you can see across to Donegal.

Seals will be sunbathing at Church Bay and Mill Bay – which is on the east side of the island.

For those who don’t just want a day trip to the island, there is a hotel too.

The Manor House is an 18th century guesthouse with 12 rooms, a restaurant, bar and café.

It has a rich history as the house was built in 1756 for the Gage family, who bought the island 10 years earlier.

The last member of the Gage family to live at the Manor House was Brigadier Rex Gage who died in 1973.

Now, the hotel is owned by the National Trust – single rooms start from £80 and doubles from £140.

Come spring, there will be daily crossings from Ballycastle Harbour to Rathlin Island.

The ferries will run from April 3 to September 20, 2026 with an extra return journey every Saturday and Sunday morning.

The additional return crossings will leave Rathlin at 8.30am and Ballycastle at 9.30am.

It has two ferries, one that’s passenger-only and another that can take larger luggage cases and even pre-booked vehicles onto the island if you fancy driving around.

The quickest ferry takes just 25 minutes.

For more on Northern Ireland, this pretty city has unique black cab tours, and waterfall walks.

And this quirky UK city was named one of the top foodie destinations for 2025 with historic pub crawls and cheap hotels.

HAVE you ever wanted to live out your favourite movie? Well, there actually is an attraction in the UK that lets you do this.

Secret Cinema is known for hosting immersive movie experiences in the UK’s capital.

Previous venues have included Battersea Park, Alexandra Palace and London Fields with shows including Grease, Stranger Things, Casino Royale, Guardians of the Galaxy, Dirty Dancing and even Bridgerton.

And now, Secret Cinema plans to create a permanent venue in Greenwich.

The purpose-built venue in North Greenwich, if approved, would open by the end of the year.

And the venue would be close to other popular destinations in Greenwich such as The O2 and the Troubadour Theatre, due to open in late 2026.

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Merritt Baer, Artistic Director & Producer of Secret Cinema said: “Greenwich Peninsula is the perfect location for Secret Cinema’s long-term flagship home.

“We are committed to bringing world-class immersive experiences to London audiences and are thrilled to work with local businesses and partners to make this happen…

“We are looking forward to breaking ground on this venue and continuing to bring entertainment’s most loved stories to life.”

Secret Cinema hopes that Greenwich will become its permanent home “for up to 10 years”.

In addition to the potential permanent site, Secret Cinema has also announced that it is bringing back last year’s hit, Grease: The Immersive Movie Musical.

The experience will return to Battersea Park from July 22 to September 13.

Travel reporter Cyann Fielding visited last year’s Grease experience and said: “Secret Cinema’s Grease: The Immersive Movie Musical had immediately transported me out of London in 2025 and landed me in the world of Sandy and Danny in the 1950s.

“It felt like a time machine had dropped me into the world of Sandy and Danny, more than 65 years in the past.

“Guests can purchase carnival tokens, just like at a real fair, to enjoy the attractions at the experience.

“There was a Ferris wheel, flying chairs, hook-a-duck and even the iconic fun house from Sandy’s unforgettable transformation scene.

“Inside, the school’s gymnasium dominated the room, serving as the central stage for the night’s performance.

“Around the edges, themed bars and seating areas were scattered – each also playing a role in the experience.

“Rows of vintage cars had been converted into tables, the auto shop was slick with oil and the bleachers were ready for Patty Simcox to screech about school spirit.

“The experience kicks off with the film itself, but as key scenes played out, actors took to the stage to bring them to life, all before cutting back to the movie.

“My only criticism would be that at times it felt a little overwhelming to the senses – I found myself on occasions unsure where to look or what to listen to as the sound from the film, orchestra and actors sometimes battle against each other.

“Yet, the entire time my feet tapped and I couldn’t help but sing along.

“Both the dancing and singing throughout the experience was breathtakingly flawless.”

Unlike the usual West End shows in London, the Secret Cinema experience allows guests to stand and move around freely.

As you move around, so do the actors and they interact with you too, chatting while in full character.

Cyann added: “One student dropped by our table to rant about being ‘left out of Frenchy’s sleepover’ – dragging us directly into the drama.

“For the finale, the audience was led back outside to the carnival.

“Sandy’s final transformation scene with song ‘You’re the One That I Want’ really did bring the house down complete with leather trousers and Shake Shack.”

In other attraction news, a free London attraction has been named the UK’s most popular for first time, so our experts have shared all of their faves that also cost nothing.

Plus, a historic tourist attraction with 250k visitors a year could start charging an entry fee for first time.

THE EASTER school holidays are just around the corner and with the kids off school, you might want to head on a staycation to fill some of their time.

There are loads of seaside towns across the UK, but Sun Travel has picked out some of the cheapest spots across England – all of which are great for family breaks this Easter.

Blackpool, Lancashire

Blackpool is often thought to be one of the cheapest seaside destinations in the UK, with arcades and a long-stretching beach.

For a one-night break over the Easter holidays, you could stay at The Merlin Hotel for £56 a night for two adults and two children (or £14 per person).

The hotel is in the city centre and is an eight minute walk from Blackpool Central Beach.

You can also head to Blackpool Winter Gardens Theatre just 400 metres away and Coral Island, 500 metres away.

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Coral Island is free to visit, so you can spend as much or little as you like with pay-as-you-go arcade games costing as little as 2p.

Kids also eat free at Coral Island when with a full-paying adult.

Great Yarmouth, Norfolk

Great Yarmouth features a ‘golden mile’ beach and lots of cosy cafes and arcades to explore.

A one-night stay at The Dolphin Hotel over the Easter holidays will set back a family of four £86.

The hotel is just a three minute walk from Great Yarmouth Pier Beach as well.

When it comes to activities, you can head to Joyland – one of the oldest theme parks in the UK – and it is completely free to visit.

Rides are then priced separately so you can spend as little or as much as you like.

For example, the Super Snails ride costs £2.50 a turn.

Travel writer, Helen Wright, recently visited and for food suggests heading to Grelly’s, where you’ll be able to grab a hot sausage roll and chips for only £3.60.

Hartlepool, County Durham

Hartlepool is often considered one of the cheapest seaside destinations in the UK with traditional seaside attractions.

When it comes to finding somewhere to stay, you could head to Parkdean Resorts Crimdon Dene Holiday Park from April 10 to 13 for £228 for four people (or £19 per person per night).

The holiday park is just a short walk to Crimdon Dene Beach, which offers amazing views of the north east coastline.

There is also a restaurant and bar on site in case you want to grab a bite to eat.

If you head into Hartlepool town, the Museum has free entry as well.

Weston-Super-Mare, Somerset

Found in Somerset, Weston-Super-Mare was a popular 19th-century Victorian seaside resort and is still loved today for its long beach and Grand Pier.

Stay at the Savoy Hotel from £99 a night for four people over the Easter holidays.

Weston-Super-Mare Beach is then just a 17-minute walk away.

If you don’t mind being a little out of Weston-Super-Mare, in the next town along – Brean – you could stay at Unity Beach holiday park for three nights from April 10 to 13 for £189 for a family of four (£15.75 per person per night).

Visiting the Grand Pier will set you back £2 per person and an unlimited all-day ride wristband costs £15 per toddler and £20 per child.

Attractions on the pier include a mirror maze, Helter Skelter and soft play.

There are a number of eating spots on the pier as well where you can grab fish and chips for £12, sausage and chips for £7.50 and a range of kids meals for £6.

Penzance, Cornwall

Despite many thinking Cornwall is one of the more expensive places to head on a staycation, if you are heading to the county then visit Penzance, which is one of the more affordable spots.

For example, you could head to Seaview Holiday Park, costing around £60 a night for a family of four over the Easter holidays.

The accommodation has a kitchenette as well, so you can cut even more costs by cooking for yourself.

And there’s also an outdoor swimming pool, indoor play area and games room.

The beach is then about a 25-minute walk away.

Whitley Bay, Tyne and Wear

According to Which?, Whitley Bay’s average room rates cost just £69 -which makes it the second cheapest UK seaside town after Southport (£66).

Over Easter though, prices are obviously a little more expensive – but there are still some affordable options.

For example, a one-night stay at The Windsor Hotel costs £77 for a family of four.

The hotel is on South Parade and within sight of the sea, with the beach just 270 metres away.

Alternatively, you could head to Hoseasons Whitley Bay holiday park for three nights between April 10 and 13 for £254 for up to six people.

That works out at just £14.12 per person, per night.

Bognor Regis, West Sussex

Bognor Regis on the south coast of England is known for its award-winning Butlin’s resort.

A three-night break at Butlin’s Bognor Regis from April 10 to 13 costs from £316 – that’s around £26.34 per person per night.

And for that price, you get all the entertainment, the indoor waterpark and fairground rides – but it doesn’t include food.

If you do want to include food, this would cost an extra £186.54 (around £15.55 per person per day) for the family food court dining plan which includes a buffet experience.

Ramsgate, Kent

Ramsgate is well known for having the UK’s only Royal Harbour, as well as sandy beaches and over 450 listed buildings.

And for Easter, there are still some affordable breaks.

You could head to Dog and Duck Holiday Park for three nights from April 10 to 13 for £234 for four people (or £19.50 per person per night).

You’d stay in a static caravan with an open plan lounge and kitchen area.

The holiday park has a pub onsite where you can grab a pizza for as little as £12, as well as an outdoor play area.

Ramsgate is also home the UK’s largest Wetherspoons as well, where you can grab a pint of Ruddles ale for just £1.99.

Or grab a pint of Worthington’s Creamflow ale for £1.99.

Paignton, Devon

When it comes to finding a place to stay in Paignton, you won’t be short for choice.

The bustling seaside town has a great mix of campsites, holiday parks, hotels and B&Bs.

For example you could stay at Devon Hills Holiday Park in a caravan with a hot tub for three nights from April 10-13 for £199 for four people (or £16.59 per person per night).

The holiday park features an 18metre pool, gym, sauna and steam room and play area.

And if you are wanting a bite to eat, there is an onsite cafe too where you can grab two pizzas, fries and garlic bread for £29.95.

The beach is a bit further away (three miles), but once there you’ll be in the bustling resort town of Paignton with red sand beaches and a pier full of different attractions including penny slot machines.

Clacton-on-Sea, Essex

Over in Essex, you could head to Clacton-on-Sea, which is full of souvenir shops and ice cream spots.

You could stay at Haven’s Orchards Holiday Village for £129 for three nights for a family of four – that’s just £10.75 per person, per night.

This is for a break between April 10 and 13, and includes access to the restaurants, takeaways and arcades but not to the swimming pools, activities and entertainment venues.

In Clacton-on-Sea, you can head to the pier which has a variety of amusement arcades and rides, such as a Helter Skelter costing just £1 a turn.

And if you are looking for a cheap spot for lunch Flags Cafe has a variety of dishes including curry, vegan options and cakes or a toastie and drink for a fiver.

For more budget stays here are the UK’s best 100 cheap stays – including our pick of the top hotels, holiday parks, B&Bs and pubs from just £22 a night.

And if you’re heading abroad – here are the most popular hotels in the loveholidays sale with rooftop pools and beautiful beaches… and holidays from £149.

A UK tourist attraction may start charging visitors an entry fee for the first time.

The historic site has cited increasing financial pressures as the reason behind the potential move.

Worcester Cathedral has launched a consultation period to explore whether its annual 250,000 visitors could help with running costs.

The 1,300-year-old building, which is the resting place of historic figures such as King John and Prince Arthur Tudor, is the most visited attraction in Worcestershire.

According to the Worcester Cathedral website, the site is currently free to visit but there is a suggested donation of £7 for adult entry to the site.

Guided tours are also available, priced at around £8 per person, offering visitors additional information on the site’s history and architecture, as well as access to the tower.

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Despite these revenue streams and the site’s popularity, the cathedral confirmed that its “current financial position is not sustainable over time”.

Total expenditure for the cathedral was recorded as £4.06million for the 2024-2025 financial year, while the site’s gross income came to £3.08million, leaving a funding gap of roughly £1million.

To tackle this, the cathedral is currently considering a mandatory entry charge, which it said would contribute to costs such as energy bills and maintenance, as well as staffing.

Speaking on the potential fee, Dean Stephen Edwards emphasised the cathedral would always remain a place of worship first and foremost, reports the BBC.

He assured local church-goers that access for prayer, services, and pastoral support would not be affected under any potential changes.

“Through this consultation we explore how we can invite appropriately those who visit primarily for heritage and tourism to contribute fairly towards the cost of maintaining the cathedral and its activities,” he said.

He went on to explain that Worcester Cathedral, like “many historic institutions”, is experiencing a rise in running and maintenance costs.

“While careful financial management and support from our endowment have enabled us to balance budgets in recent years, this has reduced our reserves and increased our reliance on investment income.”

The Dean added that diversifying income streams would help the cathedral to “remain resilient and financially sustainable”.

Worcester Cathedral is currently asking for the public’s views on the proposed entry fee via an online survey, which will remain open until Friday, April 10.

The survey stated that “no decisions have been taken” and did not include a potential price for the entry fee.

Other tourist attractions, including Rome’s Trevi Fountain, have recently brought in entry fees for the first time.

A HUGE new playground has just opened in the UK as part of a huge multi-million revamp.

Forget it’s football team and towering transmitting station – Crystal Palace Park in London has opened a new playground right by the famous dinosaur sculptures.

The park features “hands-on play” with a “world shaped by scales, skeletons and stories from deep time”.

‍There are a number of pathways to explore with dinosaur-details as well as a few different shaped slides on the embankment.

A huge dinosaur-like skeleton also offers kids the chance to climb and hide, with the curving tail forming a play trail.

In the sandpit, which is shaped like a dinosaur’s footprint, young children can also dig and discover fossils.

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There’s also jumping discs, a log scramble and swings.

And a lot of features in the park are accessible including a wheelchair accessible roundabout, accessible swing and tactile games.

For parents wanting to rest and watch whilst their children play, there is a picnic area too.

The Dinosaur Playground is close to the main park toilets, as well as the cafe.

The new playground replaces an old one that had become rundown over the years.

After enjoying the new play park, make sure to head on the dinosaur trail to see around 30 Grade-I listed statues scattered across the park.

These are the world’s first life-sized prehistoric animal sculptures which were all inspired by fossils found by Victorian palaeontologists over 170 years ago.

Many of the dinosaurs look rather different to how we imagine dinosaurs now and that is because the statues were created from the scientific information Victorians had at the time.

It is free to visit the park as well as the sculptures, which can be found across islands and lakes in the park.

And by this summer, there will be a new £17.75million Visitor Centre.

It will be a single-storey and will have an ‘Interpretation and Activity Room’ which will showcase the park’s history and future through a number of displays, objects and information panels.

The park’s Grand Centre Walk is also being restored to create more space for events, with the path becoming wider and a new entrance being built at Penge Gate.

In total, the park’s revamp is expected to cost around £52million.

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ONE of the UK’s biggest free museums has been named the most popular attraction in the UK.

The Natural History Museum in London has knocked off the British Museum from the top spot of most guests, with the Association of Leading Visitor Attractions (ALVA) revealing 7.1million people visited last year.

This marked the best year in terms of visitors for the free attraction, with a 13 per cent rise compared to the previous year.

The attraction happens to be one of Travel Reporter Alice Penwill’s favourite free attractions in London.

She said: “Having been to the Natural History Museum recently, I’m not surprised it’s the UK’s most popular tourist attraction.

“Other London attractions are impressive, but you won’t ever forget walking in to see the skeleton of an 82-foot Blue Whale in the entryway.

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“There’s something for everyone, whether you’re interested in fossils, reptiles and birds.

“My favourite part is The Vault where there are some of the most valuable treasures like diamonds, amethyst and gold crystals.

“There’s lots of green spaces outside too, and I saw lots of children enjoying the Evolution Garden with dinosaurs like a bronze Diplodocus that was installed a few years ago.”

Over the next couple of years, the Natural History Museum is also working on new openings.

A new Human Nature pop-up display will open in September 2026, inside a gallery that has been closed for 80 years.

Inside, visitors will be able to discover stories about human history and the natural world, with a number of specimens and historical objects on display that haven’t been seen before.

There will also be a prototype of one of the Crystal Palace dinosaurs, a monk seal called Jenny ‘the talking fish’ and a handaxe that was discovered alongside the remains of a woolly mammoth in 1859.

Later in 2027, there will be a new permanent gallery specifically for young children.

It will be designed for four to seven-year-olds with lots of hands-on interactive experiences about the natural world.

Doug Gurr, director of the Natural History Museum, said: “We are thrilled to be the UK’s most popular visitor attraction, smashing all previous records for the sector!”

London has a load of free attractions as well, including some right by the Natural History Museum.

One of Sun Travel’s Deputy Travel Editor Kara Godfrey’s favourite free attractions in the city is just down the road.

She said: “Having started my career in fashion, it’s no surprise that the museum I’ve been to the most in London is the V&A.

“The museum itself is fantastic – not only for being free to visit, but because it’s the largest museum on arts and design in the world.

“Also the second largest in the UK (behind the British Museum), my favourite area is the Asian corridor, with insanely detailed artwork and sculptures.

“There’s loads of free events coming right now, including one on Women Printmakers and one on iconic American Photographs.

“Make sure to save time for the cafe too. It’s also the oldest of its kind in the world and is a stunner.”

And Sun Travel’s Head of Travel (digital) Caroline McGuire also loves the Science Museum nearby.

She said: “The Science Museum in South Kensington is perfect for kids of all ages, I’ve been taking my child there since he was a one-year-old, as
the interactive ‘Garden’ in the basement is perfect for toddlers and
pre-schoolers.

“There are plenty of excellent free exhibitions around the museum – one
of our favourites being the Space section – but the most popular (and
deservedly so) is the paying Wonderlab, an interactive gallery featuring numerous experiments that will fascinate children aged 3-14.

“Tickets cost from £15 for this area.”

Alternatively, you could visit an exciting attraction on Tottenham Court Road.

Caroline shared: “Until I visited the Outernet, I thought it was all hype.

“Now, my son and I will make a 25-minute detour to spend even 20 minutes there, when we’re in central London.

“The huge multi-screened space on Tottenham Court Road screens
artist-made short films throughout the day, and you can walk in from
the street and spend as little or as much time there as you want.

“With screens covering the sides and ceiling, you really do feel like
you are inside the films.”

And there’s also the Southbank Centre.

Caroline added: “If I got a quid for every time I raved about the Southbank Centre, I could probably afford a slap-up meal at Pizza Express.

“As a mum of a primary school-aged kid who lives in London, we visit
the venue on London’s Southbank almost every school holiday.

“They have a range of free activities that change monthly.

“We’ve done free kids raves, free doodling workshops, free crafts sessions and free DIY sessions where my six-year-old was given a hammer and saw and encouraged to help build a Moomin House overlooking the River Thames.

“Oh, and the free Jeppe Hein: Appearing Rooms fountains are one of the
best places to take a kid for a splash around during a summer
heatwave.”

Or you could head to a number of galleries including the Tate Modern, Tate Britain or National Portrait Gallery.

Alice said: “When I head to London, I make a beeline for the galleries.

“Getting to see walls upon walls lined with famous artwork for absolutely nothing is something we take for granted – and there are plenty to see in the city.

“There’s the Tate Modern and Tate Britain, The National Portrait Gallery, the National Gallery where you can see one of my favourite portraits, The Ugly Duchess.

“Not to mention lots of these venues have pretty cafes and even bars if you fancy taking a weight off your feet after exploring.”

Here are some other spots to visit across London that are free to visit.

MinaLima

Elsewhere in London, you could head to one of Travel Reporter Cyann Fielding’s favourite spots – MinaLima.

Found in Soho, MinaLima is a shop and attraction that features the graphic designs from the Harry Potter films.

Named after Miraphora Mina and Eduardo Lima, who are responsible for most of the designs you see in the films including the Daily Prophet, the Advanced Potion Making textbook and Bertie Bott’s Every Flavour Beans, the destination features themed items for sale as well as prints of their designs.

Make sure to spend time exploring as there are also items from the films, and speak to the staff, who really know their stuff.

London parks

There are also a number of amazing outdoor places to visit in London including Kara’s favourite, the commons in south west London.

She said: “I spent the best part of a decade living in south London, with two years of that in and out of the Covid lockdowns.

“To stop myself from going insane, this meant lots of walking around my local parks.

“And from Balham you can easily walk three of the best in one day.

“I recommend starting at Clapham Common, one of the more open parks of the three with ponds and a Victorian bandstand that often has live concerts.

“Go down to Wandsworth Common, and you can walk along the train tracks or across the pond.

“Then nip through Balham (with a coffee at The Apple Blue Patisserie or Insta-famous Milk) and end in Tooting Bec Common, with a much more leafier and interesting park to explore.

“Need to cool down? Finish with a swim at Tooting Bec Lido as well, the biggest freshwater lido in the UK (£9.40 for adults or free for locals).”

Travel Reporter Jenna Steven’s favourite free spots also make good walks.

She said: “London has over 3,000 parks to explore, but St James’s Park is one of my favourites.

“This is mainly because I’m a big fan of the unique Duck Island, an aptly-named nature reserve on the east of St James’s Park Lake.

“The island has its own cottage, which is surrounded by vibrant greenery and blooming flowers in the springtime, looking like something out of a fairy-tale story book.

“Plus there’s scenic picnic spots by the bandstand, and several kiosks serving cold drinks and sandwiches to enjoy when the sun comes out – save those crusts for the birds!”

Or head to Lisa Minot’s favourite – Primrose Hill.

She said: “For fabulous FREE views across the whole of London, head to Primrose Hill in North London.

“First opened in 1842 as an open space for Londoners, it was originally part of Henry VIII’s hunting grounds.

“Today it offers fantastic panoramic views of the capital and is popular at sunrise and sunsets.

“It is one of six protected viewpoints in London, its highest point more than 63 metres above tree level.

“Trees are also kept low so as not to obscure the view.”

Covent Garden Piazza

If you fancy something a little more urban, venture to Covent Garden Piazza.

Jenna added: “There’s plenty of both branded and independent shops to browse, traditional cafes and bars, plus there’s always a pop-up giving away tasty treats of some kind.

“Head into the historic Market Building and Piazza for the best atmosphere in the area.

“Here you’ll hear live music rising from the lower level that makes your stroll through the building even more beautiful.”

Borough Market

Another favourite spot of Lisa’s is Borough Market.

She said: “From the viral strawberries in melted chocolate to endless street food options, traders have been operating from London’s Borough Market for more than 1,000 years.

“Today’s unique Victorian arcades, built in 1850, are home to stands offering premium quality speciality foods as well as plenty of grab-and-go options from oysters and paella to burgers and fish and chips.

“While you don’t have to pay to wander the busy pathways of Borough Market, the tempting foods on offer will mean you will not be able to resist parting with some of your cash!”

In other attraction news, there’s a new UK attraction which has been named among the best places to visit in the world – but it’s not for everyone.

Plus, one of Europe’s best beaches is in the UK – and its top attraction is returning this week.

ONE town in Wiltshire has been named one of the best places to live in the UK – and it was once very popular with royalty.

Malmesbury in Wiltshire sits just outside of the Cotswolds border with a pretty high street, stone cottages and it is home to what is considered England‘s oldest hotel.

The Times named Malmesbury one of the best places to live in the UK, and the best in the Southwest.

It said: “If the high street is a good indicator of the health of a town, then historic Malmesbury should be feeling decidedly chipper.“

Malmesbury is on the very edge of the Cotswolds, sometimes even known as the ‘southern gateway’ to the region.

It’s also nicknamed Queen of Hilltop Towns because it sits around 302 feet above sea level.

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It has 300 listed buildings with pretty stone cottages, like you find in the neighbouring Cotswolds, and lots sit alongside the River Avon.

The town is one of the oldest boroughs in England – it was given the status in around the year 880 AD by Alfred the Great.

Malmesbury was also a favourite location of the very first King of England, Athelstan.

When he ruled, he even made himself King of all England and named Malmesbury the nation’s very first capital in around 925 AD.

King Athelstan chose to be buried within the grounds of the historic Malmesbury Abbey which still stands today.

Now, Malmesbury is a classic English market town, but with the charm of the Cotswolds.

It has lots of independent shops on the high street, along with farmers’ markets.

The Flying Monk Café & Taproom is popular for everything from craft beer to a hearty breakfast.

In August, Malmesbury holds its own carnival and festival where there are lots of pop up stalls as well as parades and music.

Near the river is The Old Bell Hotel which is rumoured to be England’s oldest hotel.

The Grade I-listed spot has been welcoming guests since 1220, where it used to be lodgings for monks.

Now, it has 34 rooms that cater to everyone from single travellers to families, and a few suites too

One reported who spent a night at The Old Bell Hotel called it the “perfect spot for some post-party pampering this summer.”

They added: “Our room was a delight, dominated by a vast, comfy bed covered in a rainbow of soft throws and cushions, while a menagerie of monkeys and peacocks danced across the wallpaper.

“The helpful team at The Old Bell can arrange a guided tour of the King’s gardens in nearby Highgrove House, a visit to Westonbirt Arboretum or paddleboarding at Cotswold Water Park.

“However, it’s just as nice to potter around Malmesbury.”

If you want to explore out of the town, a 22-minute drive away from Malmesbury is Cotswold Country Park and the UK’s biggest inland beach.

Along with swimming, there’s an AquaVenture inflatable course and boat hire.

On land there is more to do with mini golf, playgrounds and lake walks.

It opens for the new season on March 27, 2026.

The town is also close to Castle Combe Race Circuit, Lake 32 Outdoor Centre and Brinkworth Golf Course.

For more on the Cotswolds, here’s how to visit on a budget and how to find the lesser-visited villages.

And Deputy Travel Editor Kara Godfrey reveals her favourite Cotswold town with old-school sweet shop and riverside games.

GET ready to rock ’n’ roll – there are more thrills and spills at our favourite theme parks.

The new season has launched and families are guaranteed exhilarating new rides, amazing attractions and sensational shows.

Disneyland Paris’s World Of Frozen is making headlines but other favourite kids’ TV characters are being celebrated with coasters, heart-stopping swing rides and even a new historical theme park.

Trisha Harbord picks top parks with something new for 2026, at home and abroad.

CHESSINGTON WORLD OF ADVENTURES

PAW Patrol is on a roll, with a new £15million PAW Patrol Land opening at Chessington this spring.

The immersive experience, based on the children’s TV series, will be the first to open in the UK.

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A replica of the show’s Lookout Tower will form part of Chase’s Mountain Mission coaster.

And families can join a rescue mission while flying high on Skye’s Helicopter Heroes.

Other rides include Zuma’s hovercraft, which will slide, drift and skid, and Marshall’s rolling and rocking fire truck.

There will be pup meet-and-greets and themed play areas, along with PAW Patrol rooms at the park’s hotel.

GO: New season started on Friday. Tickets from £37. B&B for a family of four from £155. See chessington.com.

PAULTONS PARK

A THRILLING rollercoaster and swing ride are the highlights of Paultons Park’s new £12million themed world.

Valgard: Realm Of The Vikings features Drakon, the park’s first inverted coaster, which has a vertical lift hill and two twists taking riders upside down.

It will intertwine with the coaster known as Cobra, reborn as Raven, which is an exciting bobsled adventure.

Nearby stands the massive Vild Swing — the first wild swing of its kind in the UK — which will swirl riders 40ft in the air.

Valgard, opening at the Hampshire park on May 16, will also have a Feasting Hall restaurant and Viking-inspired playground.

There will now be more than 80 rides and attractions in six themed worlds, including Peppa Pig World.

GO: New season starts Wednesday. Tickets from £46.75. Those under one metre go free. See paultonspark.co.uk.

ALTON TOWERS

IN another first, the UK’s most popular theme park launches Bluey The Ride: Here Come The Grannies! on Saturday.

Bluey and her sister Bingo, dressed as mischievous grannies Janet and Rita, take families on an adventure through the TV characters’ back yard.

Fans can also meet the lovable pup at showtime and the CBeebies Land Hotel has Bluey-themed rooms — as well as Hey Duggee themed ones, which are new for 2026.

The Staffordshire park celebrated Bluey’s arrival by creating a giant portrait on the lawn.

It’s made from 11,000 cans of beans because they feature in the TV Grannies episode.

Alton Towers Resort has more than 40 rides and attractions, including thrilling roller coasters and a waterpark.

GO: Now open, with After Dark extended openings today and on March 27 and 28. Tickets from £32. See altontowers.com.

FUTUROSCOPE

A MAJOR new immersive experience that this park based on the marvels of science and nature will allow visitors to walk among the flora and fauna of the world.

After investing nearly 300million euros in new attractions, Futuroscope has again used amazing technology to create The Greenhouse Of Worlds, a colourful visual experience.

You wander through a massive dome to discover a professor’s collection of plants from all around the globe, which you can touch and smell as they are projected around you.

Also new at the French park, just north of Poitiers, is T.Rex — where a laser projection of images takes you back 67million years to get close to the legendary monster.

The park has also partnered with EDF to open an energy theatre with workshops and activities next month.

GO: Tickets from around £40. B&B and two-day tickets for a family of four from £250. See futuroscope.com.

KYNREN

AWARD-WINNING live-action night experience Kynren is becoming the UK’s first historic show park.

There will be no roller coasters at Kynren — The Storied Lands.

Instead, it will offer immersive live performances and large-scale shows depicting historical periods and legends.

Set within County Durham’s Kynren Park, it combines storytelling with cinematic music and breathtaking stunts.

The first phase, opening on July 18, features five attractions, including The Lost Feather, with 250 birds filling the sky above you.

Medieval knights charge into combat on horseback, a vast lake is turned into a stage, Vikings clash while fires rage, and a maze is full of surprise characters.

The night show Kynren — An Epic Tale of England continues on Saturday nights from July 18 to September 12.

GO: Tickets on sale next month. Night show tickets are £30 for adults and £20 for children. See kynren.com.

WALT DISNEY WORLD

FROZEN characters Anna and Elsa aren’t just in Disneyland Paris ­— they have sailed back to sunny Orlando in Florida.

The Frozen Ever After boat ride, closed for super technology changes, has reopened at Epcot — with the famous sisters looking even more life-like as they appear to the soundtrack of the hit movie song, Let It Go.

Big Thunder Mountain Railroad has had a makeover and opens at Magic Kingdom this spring, along with Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin.

In the summer, Hollywood Studios launches two new live shows, where you will be able to dance along with Mickey and Minnie, while Animal Kingdom welcomes two new creatures to play with — Bluey and Bingo.

GO: Seven nights’ room-only at the Disney All-Star Movies Resort, including seven-day park tickets and flights from Heathrow to Tampa on September 2, costs from £1,250 per person. Check out virginatlantic.com.

BLACKPOOL PLEASURE BEACH

THE buzzing resort has a giant new ride costing nearly £9million.

Aviktas, a 138ft gyro swing — the UK’s tallest — opens at the town’s Pleasure Beach this summer as the attraction celebrates its 130th birthday.

The ride can seat 40 people at a time on a spinning circle at the end of a pendulum, which then swings to arc 120 degrees over Blackpool’s seafront.

It’s not for the faint-hearted, but there should be some great views from up there.

Aviktas joins other thrill rides including ten roller coasters, such as the Big One, which drops 235ft, and ICON, where you can feel the G-force of an F1 driver.

There’s also Nickelodeon rides for younger children, featuring favourite characters, plus water rides and shows.

GO: The Pleasure Beach is now open, tickets from £30. See blackpoolpleasurebeach.com.

LEGOLAND FLORIDA

NEW space adventure Lego Galaxy has blasted off, featuring the indoor Galacticoaster, with speeds of up to 40mph, and spectacular lighting and sound effects.

Rookie cadets are briefed by a moving, talking Lego engineer before designing their own digital spacecrafts, linked to the ride-by wristbands.

With up to 625 ride combinations, the coaster navigates twists, turns and dynamic launches.

Throughout Lego Galaxy — also open in Legoland California — there’s brick-building opportunities and galactic-themed food.

The park in Winter Haven has more than 60 rides, shows and attractions.

GO: Seven nights’ B&B at the Legoland Florida Hotel, including flights from Gatwick and two-day park tickets, is from £1,065 per person. See travelplanners.co.uk.

LIGHTWATER VALLEY

YOU’LL get an idea about this new ride from its name, Spinning Racer.

The roller coaster opens at the park, near Ripon in North Yorkshire, for the start of the new season on March 28.

Climb aboard and speed up to 45mph on the colourful track as the carriages whirl, twist and turn.

Lightwater, in 175 acres of countryside, prides itself on being a family-friendly park and has more than 35 rides and attractions including a swinging pirate ship, beautifully decorated chair swings, waterslides and an express train.

Easter events, including meet-and-greets with Ebor the resident dragon, are also planned, from the opening day.

GO: Tickets from £22, children under 90cm free. Special offer for opening weekend from £17. See lightwatervalley.co.uk.

THORPE PARK

THE legendary home of big-thrill rides, Thorpe Park is unveiling its very first recharge zone, The Launch Pad.

The dedicated space, in the heart of the Surrey theme park, is designed for guests to relax, refuel and rest before their next adrenalin hit.

Set on the site’s former Amity Beach, the new zone will be a vibrant space where you can take a breath before diving back into the action.

And there’s plenty of that, with the Big Six coasters to experience — led by Hyperia, the UK’s tallest, fastest, most weightless coaster.

Standing 236ft tall, it can reach up to 81mph.

Add to that Stealth, The Swarm, SAW — The Ride, Nemesis Inferno and Colossus, and you’ve got a thrilling half dozen.

GO: The season starts on March 27. Tickets from £32pp, see thorpepark.com.

THE world’s first ever immersive theme park land dedicated to Minecraft is set to open in the UK.

Chessington World of Adventures Resort confirmed that the new attraction will be the biggest themed land at the park.

The £50million land will have the first ever Minecraft coaster.

It will also have “interactive adventures [and] epic block built playscapes” along with themed food and drink stores and a gift shop.

The park is working with video game developer Mojang Studios as well as Minecraft creators to bring the experience to life.

Angela Jobson, SVP of Global Brand, Merlin Entertainments said: “We are meticulously creating an authentic world that the global community of Minecraft fans will want to immerse themselves in and experience the game in a whole new way.”

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This was backed by Torfi Frans Ólafsson, Senior Creative Director of Entertainment at Minecraft, who said: “We’re thrilled to have partnered with Merlin Entertainments to realise a place where you can literally be in the Minecraft Overworld and have an adventure of your own with your family and friends.”

It is set to open in 2027, although little else is known about the new land at this point.

The idea of a Minecraft ride at the Merlin parks in the UK was first announced back in 2024.

It simply said at the time the land would have “digitally enabled real-life experiences and the creation of touchpoints that will allow guests to unlock exclusive in-game content to continue their gaming journey.”

Minecraft was first released in 2011 and now has over 141 million users.

And the popularity of the world-building game has since resulted in other live-action attractions.

Last year, Minecraft Experience: Villager Rescue experience opened in London as an immersive attraction.

If you can’t wait until 2027, Chessington has another exciting new themed opening this year.

The UK’s first dedicated Paw Patrol-themed land, costing £15million, will have four new rides when it opens.

Characters from the kids TV show including Rubble, Skye, Rocky, Everest and Marshall will be around for meet and greets as well.

And back in 2023 Chessington revealed plans to open its first ever waterpark, although nothing has been announced since.

IT’S Monday morning, pouring with rain and I’m lugging a wooden sledge up to the top of a steep hill.

This is where I will meet the delivery driver who’s dropping off my shopping for the week.

Welcome to the life of a Clovellian — the name given to the residents of Clovelly in Devon, one of the country’s prettiest villages.

Once owned by the Queen of England, Clovelly dates back to the Domesday Book and is famed for its cobbled streets and the fact it doesn’t have any vehicular access.

For the 250 residents who live here, life is full of minor inconveniences but the trade-off is living somewhere quiet and safe with the community spirit of a bygone age — plus incredible views of the Atlantic.

You can’t just pack up and move here, though.

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Residents have to be approved by John Rous, the current owner and a direct descendant of Christine Hamlyn who inherited the estate in 1884.

The cottages in Clovelly are let to long-term residents only, so there aren’t any Airbnbs or second homes.

When we saw a house advertised on RightMove, we expressed our interest and met with the Estate Manager, who showed us around and explained the complexities of living there.

Then it was time for an audience with Mr Rous to see whether we would fit in and if we understood the ethos of Clovelly.

We succeeded, and were soon immersed in village life.

The harbour, at the bottom of the village, is generally where visitors gravitate and it’s a wonderful place for wild swimming as well as a hotspot for marine life.

I regularly see dolphins from my kitchen window and have to stop and pinch myself.

There are two pubs here, The New Inn and The Red Lion, and both are hubs for tourists and villagers alike.

I’ve even taken on one of the shops in the visitor centre’s car park where I’ll be teaching yoga, Pilates and providing a treatment space for massage and other therapies.

Because of the village’s layout, emergency services can’t access it, so if someone needs medical assistance they are either carried or walked to an ambulance.

In the event of a fire, crews need to come on foot or rely on specialist equipment to navigate their way from the top of the village.

It’s the reason why there isn’t any gas in the village. Instead, many of the cottages are heated by Aga Rayburn range cookers, which also heat up the water.

Most days, we forage on the beach for wood for our log burners, which has saved us a fortune.

So it goes without saying that you have to be physically strong to live in Clovelly — pulling your sledge up and down the hill is tough going — and especially on moving-in day.

Until 1983, donkeys were used to haul heavy loads up the cobbled streets but, although you will often see them being walked around the village, their days of service are now over.

Luckily, online supermarket deliveries are a thing of modern convenience and Amy’s Pantry — a converted van full of groceries, fruit, vegetables, meat and dairy products — arrives each Wednesday.

Since moving to Clovelly, I am fitter than I’ve ever been and average 15,000 steps a day, although it is strange living somewhere where we are the subject of so much attention.

Our home is one of the most photographed cottages in the village, and in the busy summer months we are greeted by crowds of gawping tourists taking photos every time we open our front door.

When our son Zak recently visited from university, he couldn’t get over the fact we were a tourist attraction.

Generally, people are lovely and intrigued about what it’s like to live there.

However, we have had to buy a private sign for our gate because tourists kept coming into our garden.

There are regular festivals throughout the year, including the Seaweed Festival, Lifeboat Day and the Lobster & Crab Festival.

The Christmas light switch-on is a big event, too, with as many as 5,000 visitors coming to the village to enjoy the fireworks.

It’s the most incredible place and, despite the inconveniences, I couldn’t imagine living anywhere else now.

IF you’re dreaming of white sands and turquoise tides but don’t want to overspend, it’s time to break out of your comfort zone.

While the likes of stunning Mykonos and Ibiza may have you hiding from your bank account, there are a handful of affordable luxury gems that are waiting just a short flight away. Here, the Sun’s travel team reveals the bargain buys – including resorts that offer a five-star feel without the excessive price tag.

We’ve found lesser-known options that are often quieter than their overcrowded neighbours.

From volcanic Greek islands with moon-like landscapes, to unspoiled Adriatic villages where a beer costs less than £2, these are the best-kept secrets of the Mediterranean and beyond.

Whether you want to trek across Tunisian beaches on a camel or sip cocktails at an Albanian beach club, these are the top under-the-radar resorts for 2026 – where you can bag an escape for as little as £75pp.

Milos, Greece

If you love the look of the Greek Islands but want to dodge the eye-watering prices of Mykonos or Santorini, Milos is the island for you.

This volcanic gem sits in the Aegean Sea and offers some of the most surreal landscapes in Europe, all whilst maintaining that laid-back Greek holiday atmosphere.

Flights to Milos (via a quick connection in Athens) take around 4 hours in total.

Return flights start at £119. You can book the whole flight – with connections included – on Skyscanner to save you the hassle of planning.

Or you can also hop on a ferry over from mainland Greece, with flights from London to Athens starting at just £26.37 each way with budget airline Ryanair.

Visit the island during the peak summer months of July and August, and you’ll find temperatures sitting at a glorious 30C.

Although Milos is a lesser-visited island, it’s famed for its coastline – specifically Sarakiniko Beach.

Here, bone-white volcanic rock looks more like the surface of the moon than a typical beach, making it one of the island’s most Instagrammable spots.

For something more secluded, head to the fishing village of Firopotamos, where tiny syrmata (brightly-coloured boat garages) sit on the water’s edge.

You can spend your days swimming in sapphire-blue rock pools or snorkelling the sea caves of Kleftiko, an old pirate hideout only accessible by boat.

Plus, going out to eat in Milos is a dream for those on a budget compared to those visiting its more famous neighbours.

You can pick up massive, authentic gyros from a local taverna for as little as €5 (£4.30), or sit back with a cold local beer for around €3.50 (£3.02).

While Milos feels exclusive and high-end, it remains surprisingly affordable – so you can experience that Mamma Mia lifestyle without the celebrity price tag.

Lastminute.com offers a 4-night stay in the beautiful, bright white Tsakanos Home, including breakfast (and return flights from London Stansted) from £303pp.

Ischia, Italy

Want Positano without the price tag? Consider visiting Ischia, known as the Green Island of Italy.

Spend days strolling past pastel-coloured traditional houses and through blooming botanical gardens, or hop on boat trips to explore hidden coves.

Temperatures average 26C in July and August, and sit comfortably in the early 20’s during the shoulder seasons.

The easiest way to get to Ischia is to fly to Naples (starting at £14.99 each way with Ryanair) and then hop on the ultra-fast hydrofoil ferry.

Once you arrive, there’s endless amounts of unique history to explore and coastline to wander.

This volcanic island even has its own hot springs that bubble up at the island’s longest and most popular beach, Maronti Beach.

And if that’s not unique enough, there’s plenty more interesting beaches to choose from.

Cartaromana Beach has its own real-life Atlantis in the form of a sunken city called Aenaria made up of Roman ruins.

And for a historical afternoon out, head to the medieval Aragonese Castle to see the old prisons and stone bridges that overlook a vast blue bay.

It’s famously hard to find a bad meal in Italy, and the island of Ischia is no exception.

A portion of arancini can cost you as little as €3 (£2.59), and you can find local beers from €4 (£3.45).

Plus there are plenty of affordable package holiday options available to this underrated island.

First Choice offers a 7-night stay with breakfast at the Costa Citara Hotel, including return flights from Birmingham, from £483pp.

Ksamil, Albania

Albania is the recent breakout star of budget holiday destinations, but many Brits still haven’t caught on to this unspoiled coastal village.

Ksamil is a resort in southern Albania that offers a real slice of Mediterranean paradise set on the idyllic Ionian Sea.

Just three hours’ flight from the UK, Ksamil sees 300 days of sunshine per year, and temperatures peak at a scorching 34C in the summer months.

With its near-luminous blue waters and rocky coves covered in lush greenery, Ksamil could easily be mistaken for a luxurious Greek island resort.

One of the resort’s best beaches is Plazhi Ksamil, a popular choice for its picturesque wooden jetty where boats wait to taxi you off to the remote Ksamil islands.

But if you truly want somewhere remote and undisturbed, take the coastal walk down to Pulebardha Beach.

If you don’t mind pebbles instead of sand, this is one of the most beautiful beaches in the area.

In Ksamil, sitting down to a cocktail at a beachside bar can feel like experiencing a high-end Mykonos resort for a fraction of the price.

Cocktails here can cost you as little as 350 LEK (around £3.16), and beers as little as 180 LEK (£1.62).

Poda Beach Bar has a posh beach club feel, with day beds, a wooden sea swing, as well as live music and DJs taking over a stretch of white sand.

The village’s top eateries include grill houses such as Restaurant Grill & Pizza Palma, as well as top seafood spot The Mussel House.

The latter offers some of the freshest local shellfish in the area, with thousands of raving 5-star reviews online.

One of the restaurant’s most popular dishes, sautéed mussels, will cost you just 550 LEK (£4.96).

And as for accommodation, you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to affordable options.

You can book a three-night self-catering stay in a sea view villa, including return flights from London Luton, for as little as £75pp on Lastminute.com.

Ulcinj, Montenegro

Think the Med is getting too expensive? Montenegro is here to prove you wrong.

Montenegro’s dramatic coastline blends impressive mountains with warm turquoise waters, plus your pick of near-endless sandy coves to explore.

And whilst the crowds head to the busy Bay of Kotor, savvy travellers are heading south to Ulcinj.

Ulcinj is an ultra-affordable Mediterranean destination, and it doesn’t compromise on the beautiful nature, either.

Flights to Podgorica, the nearest airport, average just 2 hours and 50 minutes from London – and can cost as little as £18 each way with Wizz Air.

Ulcinj is also one of the country’s oldest residential areas, so there are plenty of historical sites to visit, such as the ancient Ulcinj Castle and the charming narrow streets of the Old Town.

The best time to visit Ulcinj is between May and September, with July being the hottest month with temperatures reaching 31C.

And if you’re simply looking to laze on a lounger and soak up the sunshine, head to Long Beach.

As the name suggests, this shoreline stretches for miles – eight miles, to be exact.

This beach has soft sands and shallow, sapphire waters, perfect for paddling with children if taking a family holiday.

Alternatively, Small Beach is tucked in a crescent-shaped cove, overlooked by the impressive Ulcinj Castle.

And other than sightseeing and sunbathing, Ulcinj has plenty of other unique things to do.

Head to the Ulcinj Salina, a giant nature park, to spot wild flamingos for free, or visit Lake Skadar (the largest in the Balkans) to rent a kayak.

Local staple foods include priganice, which are doughnut-like fritters eaten at breakfast, and baklava, a sweet pastry often enjoyed with coffee.

These delights cost as little as €1-2 from markets and cafes. Plus, when they’re paired with a cappuccino, which averages a cost of just €1.97 in Montenegro, how can you say no?

And when it comes to booking your trip, holiday packages to Ulcinj are very affordable.

Loveholidays offer a 7-night stay with breakfast at the swanky Hotel Continental Ulcinj (which includes return flights from London Stansted) from just £299 per person.

Djerba Island, Tunisia

Sun-drenched Djerba is a palm tree-lined island off the coast of Tunisia, where Mediterranean and North African influences meet to make postcard-perfect seaside villages.

Flights from London to Djerba average three and a half hours, ideal for those who want that far-flung holiday feel without the long flight.

Visit the island in its warmest months, July and August, and you can enjoy temperatures that reach up to 33C.

Here you can stroll through whitewashed fishing villages, colourful markets and neighbourhoods decorated with mosaics and street art.

Or simply laze under straw umbrellas on the shores of Sidi Mahrez beach, taking the occasional dip in its turquoise waters.

And if you want to enjoy Djerba’s beautiful beaches by trekking across their white sands via camel, you can do that here.

For a more lively day out, head to Houmt Souk (known as the market neighbourhood) for colourful souks backed by an impressive fortress.

Or head to the north-eastern coast of the island to try out water sports like parasailing and kite-surfing.

Local food is both affordable and delicious, and you can grab local delicacies like couscous from markets for around 10.20 DT (£2.60) per meal.

Plus, the average beer in Tunisia will cost you only 5 DT (£1.28) and a cappuccino will set you back just 2.63 DT (67p).

Tunisia is renowned for its affordable all-inclusive hotels, and the resorts on Djerba Island are no exception.

TUI offer week-long, all-inclusive stays at the four-star Palm Beach Djerba (including return flights from London Luton) from just £395pp.

Aljezur, Portugal

For a taste of the “wild side” of the Algarve that remains distant from the major tourist spots, look no further than Aljezur.

Tucked away in the Costa Vicentina Natural Park on Portugal’s rugged west coast, this market town is worlds away from the high-rise resorts of the south.

Flights to Faro from the UK take around 2 hours and 50 minutes, and can cost as little as £14.99 each way with Ryanair.

From there, it’s a scenic 75-minute drive into a landscape of jagged cliffs and desert-like sands.

Summer temperatures here peak at 28C in July, whilst the south coast can feel sweltering, Aljezur enjoys a cooling Atlantic breeze.

Aljezur is the capital of Portugal’s surf scene, centred around the stunning Arrifana Beach, a crescent of soft sands sheltered by dramatic black cliffs.

Another beautiful beach option is Monte Clérigo, which has a coastal village vibe with colourful houses perched right above the shore.

Amoreira Beach, on the other hand, features a unique river mouth that’s calm and ideal for paddling with kids.

Despite its trendy surfing reputation, Aljezur is surprisingly wallet-friendly.

You can grab a hearty Prato do Dia (plate of the day) featuring fresh grilled seafood for around €10 (£8.62) at a traditional tasca.

A local beer will cost you about €2.50 (£2.16), and a coffee from a local cafe can be found for just €1.20 (£1.03).

Between the castle ruins, dramatic cliffs and endless amount of hidden beaches, Aljezur offers a taste of Portugal‘s beautifully rugged coastline for a fraction of what you’d pay elsewhere in the Algarve.

Expedia offer a 7-night stay including breakfast at the aptly-named Utopia from just £403pp.

IF you fancy a stay in the Cotswolds, then there are few places as quaint as the Woodstock.

Here is everything you need to know about staying at The Feathers hotel.

Where is The Feathers hotel?

The stunning boutique hotel situated in the heart of the Oxfordshire village with more than a hint of Cotswolds charm.

Woodstock is also near Blenheim Palace, although its nearest train station is Hanborough Station which is around an hour to London.

What is the hotel like?

The hotel says it has both “modern comfort and historic charm” with a cozy lounge area by the bar.

Last year it underwent a huge six month refurbishment which saw an upgraded bar and terrace area.

Read more on hotel reviews

INN AND OUT

The Holiday Inn, Cambridge hotel review

SUPER SM-ART

Artist Residence, Bristol hotel review

What are the rooms like?

The 18 rooms and five suites combine original features with extravagant modern touches to make for a luxurious stay.

Our dog-friendly Cotswold Room had exposed wooden beams complemented by sleek interior design, including air con and a massive TV.

The bed was enormous and beyond comfortable, while the marble-effect bathroom had a belter of a shower.

There was also a doggy welcome pack, which included treats, toys and a plush sleeping pad.

It was the most wonderful stay in an idyllic village setting. Relaxing, even with our nutter of a cockapoo.

Rooms start at £250 including breakfast. Dogs charged at £30 per stay. See feathers.co.uk.

What is there to eat and drink there?

If the sun’s out, head to the hotel’s cute courtyard at The Aviary and get that Aperol spritz ordered.

For dinner, move inside to The Nest for fine dining with a flourish. Every item was off the scale but the star of the show was the lamb main.

For the lamb dish alone I would walk from my home in South West London.

Make sure to return for lunch as they serve a beautiful afternoon tea.

What else is there to do?

Woodstock is perfect for a genteel traipse, and a visit to nearby Blenheim Palace is a no-brainer.

The signs boast this is “Britain’s Greatest Palace” – and the beauty of the undulating grounds coupled with the striking palace itself definitely put it in there with a good shout.

Is it family friendly?

Two of the suites have sofa beds at an additional cost, for families staying with kids.

Cots can also be rented for £10 a night.

Is the hotel accessible?

The hotel has an accessible room on the ground floor.

ONE of the most beautiful beaches in Europe is actually in Britain – and the sandy shores are bringing back a beloved attraction this week.

The observation wheel in Weymouth is returning and will welcome beachgoers from tomorrow for the new season.

Visit Weymouth announced that Weymouth’s Observation Wheel will be opening tomorrow.

In a social media post, it said: “After a successful debut year in 2025, Weymouth’s Observation Wheel will be open again this Saturday 21st and Sunday 22nd March at 11am.

“It looks like we are in for a sunny weekend, so get ready for some amazing views! The attraction will then be open every day from Friday 27th March.

“From 10.30am on Saturday 28th March, the other beach rides will be open daily – just in time for the Easter holidays.”

GO SEA IT

£9.50 holiday spot with shipwrecks, seals offshore & horseshoe-shaped waterfalls

SIGHT SEA

£9.50 holidaymakers’ favourite Skegness activities… away from the beach

Other rides opening next weekend include the helter skelter, pirate ship, pirate coaster and paratrooper.

It won’t be the last time you see the big wheel either as the family who own it have a five-year contract in place, according to the Dorset Echo.

This means it will be there and open for business until 2029.

The attraction is fairly new to the seaside town having only opened in April last year.

It stands at 85ft tall and can take up to 108 passengers at a time.

Anyone wanting to see the Jurassic Coastline should take a ride as it offers great views across the beach and further on.

Last year, prices for the Weymouth Wheel started from £5 for children under 10 as well as OAPs.

For adults, a single ticket is £6, while families of four (two children and two adults) could get onto the attraction for £20.

Weymouth Beach is a favourite for Brits, especially during the summer months.

It’s also considered one of the most beautiful in Europe.

Last year, Tripadvisor ranked the best beaches – and Weymouth Beach came in 20th place, when it came to the list of the best beaches in Europe.

It was praised for its ‘shallow, safe waters’ that are perfect for swimmers.

Other factors that went in its favour included its family-friendly activities like donkey rides and pedalo hire.

It was the fourth year in a row that Weymouth appeared on the list.

The Times even named Weymouth the UK’s best beach back in 2023 with its litter-free beach, and plentiful amount of fish and chip shops.

Brits have a similar opinion too, one beach-goer wrote on Tripadvisor: “It’s the best beach in the South if not the UK”.

Another went one further, saying: “Best beach in the world.. Love it here.”

For more on beaches, here are Sun Travel’s 26 must-visit UK beaches for 2026 – including tropical-feel spots and family-friendly finds.

And here are five UK beaches that feel more like abroad with white sand beaches and chic hotels.

CAMPING in the great outdoors is not everyone’s cup of tea – but what if you could have a glass of cider instead?

This campsite in Dorset is set within the grounds of an apple orchard used to make award-winning cider.

Called Dorset Nectar Orchard Campsite, the site has room for just 14 tent pitches, so each is spaced out and fairly private.

There won’t be any children running about either as guests staying here have to be over 20-years-old.

For cider fans, this campsite is the dream stay as it’s set within an orchard with over 3,000 apple trees that forms part of the cider farm.

The main building at the campsite is a taproom where campers are welcome to buy and try 13 types of award-winning cider on offer.

GO SEA IT

£9.50 holiday spot with shipwrecks, seals offshore & horseshoe-shaped waterfalls

SIGHT SEA

£9.50 holidaymakers’ favourite Skegness activities… away from the beach

It also sells apple juice, craft beers and apple cider vinegar.

You can sip away on a tasty cider at one of the picnic benches while enjoying the spring sunshine.

There’s also the chance to barbecue or cook up a storm by your tent at one of the raised firepits.

Campers can join a tour of the cider farm on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays too.

Along with the taproom and tours, the campsite has a hot food spot called Oliver’s Kitchen which opens on Saturdays offering hot food like cider sausage baps.

On Saturdays, there’s also live music in the Cider Garden.

For nature lovers, head out on one of the footpaths through fields and down to the River Brit.

For those who want to take home a souvenir, there’s a cider shop which sells biscuits, chutneys, jams, sausages, craft ales, local wines and of course, apple-related products from the orchard.

When it comes to pitches, it has to be a tent which sleeps up to a maximum of six people.

Prices start from £34 for a one night stay for two adults – or £17 per night.

When it comes to reviews, lots have praised the campsite particularly for its cider experience.

One wrote: “We loved the quirkiness of camping between the orchard rows. The trees give your pitch separation and privacy and it’s so peaceful!

“Added bonus having a taproom just up from the pitches with a wonderful beer garden with lots of space in the sunshine.”

Another said they loved the “relaxing live music and fab homemade Burgers on the Saturday as well as sampling their delicious ciders.”

Dorset West Bay beach which sits on the Jurassic coast is just a 15-minute drive away.

The beach might be recognisable to TV fans as it’s where the ITV drama Broadchurch, starring David Tennant and Olivia Colman, was filmed.

It’s known for its sweeping golden sands with enormous cliffs in the background.

The campsite reopens on March 27 with the bar open between April 1 and August 15, 2026.

Here are the UK pubs that have their own campsites with cheap pitches.

And here are more campsites that are affordable with some of the country’s best views.

THE Sun’s travel team are sharing the holiday destinations they’ll be heading to this summer to help you find the best deals to get away for less.

To do this, we have rounded up our absolute favourite spots for summer 2026, including family-friendly holiday parks, sunny Spanish resorts and the very best in cruises.

Whether you’re hunting for a cheap UK break or a dreamy island retreat, we’ve got your travel inspiration for 2026 sorted.

From Skegness to Seoul, here’s where the Sun Travel team recommend – and are actually heading to – as the weather hots up.

Caroline McGuire, Head of Travel – Digital

UK holiday – Butlin’s, Skegness

I am ashamed to say that in my nine years as a travel editor at The Sun, I’ve not yet made it to Butlin’s.

Well, not after this summer. I’m heading to their Skegness resort with a school mum and our kids, in the seaside holiday park’s 90th birthday year.

I’m not sure who is more excited – the adults or the kids.

My parents were camping-in-France-type people, so I never did any of the UK holiday parks growing up.

But now I have a kid of my own, the idea of free fairground rides, water slides and TV-quality evening entertainment is deeply appealing.  

I’m particularly looking forward to the Masked Singer Live, and my son is very excited about the Maximum Pro Wrestling.

Plus, we’ve got the all-inclusive drinks package, which means we can sip on a cold wine and natter while the children tire themselves out with all the activities.

Given we’ve got the dining package too, it’ll be interesting to see quite how much we can see, do and eat in a 3-night break, without spending any extra money.

They’ve got 3-night breaks in May half term from £188 and the school summer holidays from £207.

Medium haul break – Bodrum, Turkey

I’ve managed to visit a new part of Turkey each year since Covid ended, ranging from Istanbul and Izmir to the Turquoise Coast, and this year I’m ticking Bodrum off the list.

Turkey is one of my favourite countries to visit with my seven-year-old.

For a start, the food is so kid-friendly that eating out is a dream. Halloumi, olives, flatbreads, hummus, baklava… what’s not to love?

Plus, they’ve really nailed the all-inclusive hotel experience.

This year, we’re staying at the Titanic Luxury Collection Bodrum – a five-star property on the Pina Peninsula with 11 restaurants and its own white-sand beach.

Week-long, all-inclusive stays at this five-star resort start from £910pp with On the Beach.

Short haul break – Eurocamp: Les Prairies De La Mer Resort, France

Kate Moss, Elton John, Beyonce and Leonardo DiCaprio all love St Tropez, and it’s about to become even better-known soon, as the next White Lotus TV show is being filmed there.

But just 15 minutes down the road is Les Prairies De La Mer Resort  – one of Eurocamp’s top holiday parks that they rate as five stars. 

But when we fancy a bit of the A-List lifestyle, it’s super easy and cheap to get to either St Tropez or St Maxime

Forget Club 55 and superyachts, here it’s all about the park’s own beachfront cafe, mini golf and the two pools.

Oh, and an early morning walk to the on-site supermarket for freshly baked croissants. 

But when we fancy a bit of the A-List lifestyle, it’s super easy and cheap to get to either St Tropez or St Maxime.

They’ve got 7-night breaks in May half term from £1,707 and school summer holidays from £2,349.

Alice Penwill, Travel Reporter

British seaside – Suffolk, UK

As much as I love going abroad, sometimes you can’t beat a British summer.

I’ll be visiting Suffolk later this year to explore its seaside towns and hopefully enjoy some sunshine along the way too.

I’ll head to Aldeburgh first to see its colourful homes and stretching shingle beach.

I’ll try a Noon Tart too – it’s a local delicacy, essentially it’s a savoury pastry made from smoked haddock, smoked cheddar cheese, cream, eggs, and mustard in a flaky pastry.

Half an hour away from Aldeburgh is Framlingham Castle, which was Ed Sheeran’s inspiration for his song ‘Castle on the Hill’.

Neighbouring seaside towns include Thopeness and I might even stop by my favourite place along the Suffolk coast, Southwold.

I’ve been going to Southwold for years, playing games at the arcades, crabbing off the pier and popping into its independent shops along the high street.

I’ll be staying at The Brudenell Hotel, which sits on the seafront of Aldeburgh, and offers rooms from £137 per night.

Short haul sunshine – Menorca, Spain

Lots of Brits head to the Spanish islands during the summer – and I hope to be one of them, although I’m going to one that has fewer crowds.

The island of Menorca, next to the well-known Majorca, welcomes much fewer tourists each year, making it an ideal place to relax – it’s even been called “Ibiza’s chilled-out sister”.

It’s easy to navigate too, as it’s much smaller, so it has short airport transfers, and is generally cheaper.

I’ve got my eye on Cala Macarella, a beach on the south of the island with white cliffs and turquoise waters.

Another spot that I’ve been told about is Cova d’en Xoroi, which is a bar that’s built into caves on the cliffs.

During the day, it’s a chilled bar, and in the evening, it holds sunset sessions with live music.

To make it easier, the likes of TUI and Jet2 organise package holidays.

You can book a 7-night room-only break at Menorca’s Colina Village from £262.26pp with TUI.

English adventure – Jurassic Coast, UK

In my 28 years of living in the UK, I’ve never taken a stroll along the Jurassic Coast, which is why I intend to head there this summer for a weekend away (at least).

Chesil Beach near Weymouth is the longest in the UK, stretching for 18 miles from West Bay to the Isle of Portland.

And I hope to walk the beach and stop by The Cove House Inn on the north of the Isle of Portland, which was named as one of the best beachside boozers last year by Big 7 Travel.

Lots of visitors compliment the views from the pub, which sits on the promenade, and some have even spotted dolphins and whales in the water there too.

Of course, the famous Durdle Door is another stop high up on my list, as is Kimmeridge Bay.

Premier Inn’s Weymouth hotel offers spacious, comfy rooms from just £57 per night.

Lisa Minot – Head of Travel

Short haul success – Malaga, Spain

I’m heading to the southern Spanish gem of Malaga in early June for a long weekend.

The city ticks all the boxes when it comes to an easy-to-reach, reliably sunny destination that can combine a quick cultural hit with fabulous food and a captivating coastline. 

And travelling in early June, hopefully, will mean fewer crowds while still benefiting from warm sunshine.

I’ll be ticking off big hitters like the Picasso Museum and the 11th-century Alcazaba palace, but also on the agenda will be some serious relaxation.

I’m staying 20 minutes from the city centre at the Higueron Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton, set between the Mediterranean and the Mijas mountains.

Its rooftop pool and terraces will be perfect for sunbathing and cocktail sipping, and there’s a spa and superb sports facilities for some proper me-time too.

The glamorous hotel offers breaks from £184 per night, but its budget-friendly little sister, the Hilton Garden Inn Malaga, also makes for a fantastic stay from £95 per night.

French fancy – Bormes Les Mimosas, Cote d’Azur

It will come as no surprise to those who know me that, yet again, my priority this summer will be spending time with family and friends at my own caravan in the South of France. 

I’ve visited Camp du Domaine in Bormes les Mimosas almost every year for the last 50 years, and this summer will be no different.

The site tumbles down pine-clad hills to its own gorgeous sandy beach, and days will be spent relaxing on those soft sands, swimming in the warm waters and cooking up a storm with the purchases bought in local markets, from fresh fish to ripe Provencale tomatoes and of course, the odd rose!

Set between Toulon and St Tropez, it’s a great site for those who have their own van or camper, but there are bungalows for rent too.

Another good bet nearby is the Eurocamp sites in Grimaldi and Frejus.

A basic pitch at Camp du Domaine starts from £28.50 per night, with options for one-bedroom bungalows starting from £60 per night. See campdudomaine.com.

Long haul leave – Seoul, South Korea

I’m making my first trip to the current global capital of cool, Seoul, as Virgin Atlantic launch new direct services.

With all things K-culture from the massive success of K-pop to the likes of Squid Game and BTS, the city promises an irresistible blend of ancient palaces, surprising green spaces and intoxicating 24/7 high-tech culture.

Of course, top of the list will be visiting Olive Young, Korea’s biggest beauty store for skincare essentials.

But I’ll also find time to wander and window-shop in the wealthy neighbourhood of Gangnam, famously mocked in original K-pop star PSY’s signature tune.

And then there’s the exciting food scene – from spicy street food to Korean barbecue, I can’t wait to indulge!

Virgin Atlantic flights to Seoul start from £757 return.

Once you’re in Seoul, there are plenty of budget-friendly accommodation options.

A night at the glitzy Moxy Seoul Insadong starts from £100 per room, whilst backpackers love the H HOSTEL Itaewon (from £23) with its social rooftop bar.

Jenna Stevens – Travel Reporter

British break – Cley next the Sea, Norfolk

I’m lucky enough to say that heading back home for me is like going on holiday.

North Norfolk is brimming with picturesque seaside towns and quaint fishing villages, so many that I’m yet to set foot in them all, despite growing up there.

This summer I’ll be heading east along the coastline to Cley next the Sea, a charming coastal village known for its seal trips, pretty marshland and its Grade II-listed windmill facing the sea.

Overnight stays are best taken in cosy pubs with rooms, which are abundant in the area

I’m looking forward to getting stuck into harvesting fresh samphire from the shores, then washing off my wellies and heading out to local restaurants to sample the seafood.

Cley is also home to quaint pottery shops and art galleries with work from local artists. Plus, the coastal walking routes are perfect for twitchers who want to spot species like marsh harriers and bitterns.

Overnight stays are best taken in cosy pubs with rooms, which are abundant in the area.

This makes evenings effortlessly easy, as you only have to head upstairs to retire after spending the night sipping Norfolk ales and chatting with locals.

Although if you want something truly special, you can choose to stay inside Cley Windmill itself.

Inside the mill, there’s a unique circular sitting room, decorated with antique furniture and an open fire, plus a dining room dating back to 1713.

Pair this with upper-floor bedrooms looking over the marshes, and you’ve got yourself a truly unforgettable staycation.

B&B stays at Cley Windmill start from £184 per night.

Or if you prefer a more rustic stay, you can go lakeside glamping close to Cley Marshes Visitor Centre from just £40 per night.

Euro city-break – Barcelona, Spain

Despite being one of Spain’s number one fans, I’ve somehow never made it to buzzy Barcelona.

I’m looking forward to heading there this summer to soak up the coastal city’s high-energy feel, whether its by boat trip, bicycle or bar-hopping.

This year marks Gaudi’s centenary: the anniversary of 100 years since the death of the famous architect.

To celebrate, the streets of Barcelona will be alive with various street celebrations, concerts and exhibitions taking place throughout the year.

Plus, the construction on the Sagrada Familia is set to wrap up in 2026, and with the completion of a spire back in February, the church building officially became the tallest in the world.

To add to the celebrations, Barcelona has been named the World Capital of Architecture this year.

Not only is there the impressive Sagrada Familia to admire, but I’m looking forward to ticking off Casa Milà and Casa Batlló, too.

Throw in some Spanish wine tasting and plans to eat my body weight in jamon and patatas bravas, and it’s fair to say I’m excited to finally experience Barcelona this summer.

City breaks to Barcelona are a very affordable option if you’re looking for a weekend away in Europe. TUI offer a 2-night stay in June at Hotel Acta Voraport hotel from just £266pp, and that’s with return flights included!

Southern Europe scorcher – Quinta do Lago, The Algarve, Portugal

The Algarve has long been a popular destination for Brits seeking sunshine, and I’m excited to head to the sporty resort of Quinta do Lago to catch some rays myself.

If you’re a fan of golfing with gorgeous coastal views, it doesn’t get much better than Quinta do Lago.

The North, South and Laranjal golf courses are renowned for their manicured, championship-grade greens.

In fact, the South golf course at Quinta do Lago has hosted the Portuguese Open no fewer than eight times.

Plus, the sporty adults’ playground offers more than just golf, too.

Whether you’re into pilates, padel or Portuguese cuisine, there’s something for everyone.

I’m very much looking forward to rewarding myself for the workouts with a frozen cocktail and lazing out on the golden sands of Quinta do Lago beach.

A top hotel on the resort that balances stylishness and affordability is The Magnolia Hotel, which offers rooms from £138 per night.

Jenna Stevens, Travel Reporter

Cyann Fielding, Travel Reporter

Train trip – Disneyland Paris

A theme park is a great option for a weekend away, and that is exactly what I am planning with Disneyland Paris.

By the end of March, Disneyland Paris will have opened its newest land: World of Frozen.

Now, I may be 25, but nothing excites me more than seeing Olaf come to life, waddling around and making his cute chuckles.

The new land is meant to look just like the Arendelle Kingdom as well, so I am excited to feel as if I am stepping into the movie itself.

One of Disneyland Paris’ biggest appeals is its proximity to the UK and the ease of travel there.

I will take the Eurostar from London St Pancras, which alleviates the stress often felt when travelling through an airport.

By making this trip a weekend break, I don’t have to take any annual leave, so it is a win-win.

You can book a 3-night stay at the Staycity Aparthotels Marne La Vallee from just £229pp on Loveholidays – it’s only seven minutes from the attraction, and it has its own outdoor pool to cool off in, too.

Atlantic adventure – The Bay Area, California, USA

I’m no newbie when it comes to California, having visited San Francisco twice, Yosemite and Los Angeles.

But I stand by the fact that the American state is one of the most exciting and diverse places to explore.

This summer, I will focus on the Bay Area, which comprises regions bordering San Francisco Bay, San Pablo Bay and Suisun Bay.

The different regions include Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, Napa, San Mateo, Santa Clara, Solano, Sonoma, and San Francisco.

For this trip, I will focus on Marin — home to one of America’s 10 National Seashores — and Santa Clara, where you will find Silicon Valley and San Jose.

When people think of California, they often imagine LA and San Francisco, perhaps with chic surfer dudes.

However, this trip will focus on exploring the hidden parts of the Bay Area, including the location where George Lucas created Star Wars and Indiana Jones.

You can bag return flights to San Francisco from just £444 on Skyscanner, the cheapest deals are often found flying with SWISS airline.

Scottish summer – Glasgow, Scotland

Over the past few years, I have visited several destinations in Scotland and have to admit, they are to date some of the best places I have travelled to across the entire globe.

Scotland’s landscape is like nowhere else, and its cities are full of fascinating history and architecture.

That’s why this summer I will be heading to Glasgow. I haven’t visited before, so I am super excited to see how it compares to Edinburgh.

Glasgow Cathedral and Botanic Gardens are definitely at the top of my list of places to check out.

What is even better about this trip is that train operator Lumo has just launched a route from London to Glasgow – so no extra luggage costs for me!

Glasgow is full of affordable accommodation options, such as the ever-reliable easyHotel Glasgow City Centre from just £43 per night.

Kara Godfrey, Deputy Travel Editor

Medium haul trip – Marrakech, Morocco

Despite being known for its affordable flights, easyJet has recently launched its new Luxury Collection holiday offerings.

So I’ll be trying it out for myself on a trip to Morocco, spending a few days in Marrakech. 

I haven’t been to the city since 2018, and even then, it was on a budget, so I am excited to see the fancier side of it with a stay at the famous La Mamounia.

However, that won’t stop me from trying to hunt out a bargain in the souks, in the form of pretty kitchen bowls and candle holders.

And with 3 hr 40-minute flights and 25C weather in April? Sign me up!

You can fly to Marrakech from London from just £19.99 each way with easyJet.

Long haul adventure – East coast of Thailand

Twenty-one-year-old Kara’s biggest adventure was travelling to Asia, her first stop being a month exploring the popular Thai islands.

I’m as surprised as you are that, 12 years later, I have yet to return to the beautiful country.

So this summer, I have made it my mission to explore the parts that I forgot about as a budget traveller.

This time, I will be heading to the east coast, forgoing Bangkok and Chiang Mai for the nightlife of Pattaya.

Not only that, but my trip will also take me to Koh Chang, right by the Cambodia border.

Said to be less crowded and like going back to Thailand decades ago – I’ll be gorging on £1 Pad Thai and cheap Singha beers.

There’s plenty of luxurious hotels for affordable prices in Thailand, especially in Pattaya. Easy Planet Pattaya offers rooms from just £15 per night!

Eurotrip – Bilbao, Spain

My love of a Spanish city was only further proven last year, after falling for both Seville and Madrid after spending a long weekend in each.

So this year I’m taking myself to Bilbao for a long weekend.

It is one of the closest Spanish cities to the UK – flights are just 1hr45 – and TUI has recently launched new city break packages too.

Great tapas will be on the menu, with some of the finest in Spain, as well as soaking up some culture at the famous Guggenheim Museum.

You can visit Bilbao with TUI for a 3-night city break staying at the Occidental Bilbao from just £280pp, including return flights.

Kara Godfrey, Deputy Travel Editor

Sophie Swietochowski, Assistant Travel Editor

Holiday at sea – Oceania Allura Cruise

I experienced Oceania’s glamorous Allura when she first debuted in the Med last year.

I loved her sleek cocktail bars and quality restaurants so much that I’m considering returning for a voyage in the coming months – only this time it’ll be for longer.

This summer, the 1,200-passenger vessel will be cruising between the Greek isles, sun-drenched shores of Croatia and bustling port cities in Turkey.

And with the temperatures likely to sizzle in the low 30s, there’ll be plenty of opportunity to take advantage of its sun decks.

Either flopped on one of the huge daybeds with an icy margarita, by the main pool or – my personal favourite spot – in the mellow spa at the back of the ship where you can watch the engines carve a foamy path in the sea.

In the evening, I’ll be making a beeline for Jacques, Oceania’s famous French restaurant that dishes up classics of beef tartare and wobbly cheese souffles.

I’ll be washing it down with a good bottle of red, obviously – just as the French would – before following it up with a dirty martini in Martinis.

I’ll take mine with Grey Goose, please.

A Greek island tour on Oceania’s Allura starts from £1,979 per guest for a 7-day voyage.

The most affordable Oceania cruise currently is a 7-day voyage from Rome to Barcelona, from £942 per guest.

American adventure – New York, USA

I could never tire of New York City. The Big Apple is a destination that will welcome you with open arms, whatever the weather – and one that feels endlessly full of possibilities.

I’ve returned almost every year for the past five years, and each time, I’ve experienced something new.

Things move at a fast pace, and museums, restaurants and attractions are opening on a weekly basis, making this city a revolving door of fun.

Sadly, many experiences here will burn a hole in your wallet, but there are ways of cutting back on spending.

Oyster happy hours are top on my list for summer, where participating restaurants serve up the fishy, and normally rather pricey, snack for around $1 a pop.

I’ll be scouring discount site Today Tix (todaytix.com) for bargain, last-minute tickets to Broadway shows.

And as for exploring? Some of the best activities in NYC are free.

Who can resist a stroll around Central Park? This lush, green space is so vast that it took me an hour to find my way out and back onto the urban streets on my first visit.

There are also free museum days, while trips to famous department stores like Macy’s needn’t cost you a penny.

That is, unless you fall in love with a stylish handbag or pair of shoes…

On the Beach offer week-long trips to New York, including return flights and a stay at a hotel in in Times Square, from £1,085pp.

British break – Salcombe, Devon, UK

I’m already counting down the days until I return to the South West coast of England.

Cornwall is my usual haunt, and I know its windswept coastlines, sandy bays and rugged walking trails like the back of my hand.

So, I’m mixing things up a little this summer and moving a fraction to the east, where a gorgeous holiday home in Devon’s Salcombe is awaiting my arrival.

The scenery will be familiar, but – note to self – it’s cream first, then jam, on this side of the border.

On top of jaw-dropping views, Salcombe promises scenic adventures on the water.

The destination is a renowned sailing hotspot, hosting various dinghy races throughout the summer.

Boats can be hired for private excursions with or without a skipper, depending on your experience and knowledge.

The harbour town is also home to a rather charming gin distillery, which hosts tours and tasting sessions from £50pp.

Don’t fancy gin? There’s rum, too.

You can book a stay at The Sloop Inn, a charming 14th-century seaside pub with rooms, from just £88 per night.

LOOKING for a day out in the capital for less? Thanks to Sun Superdays, we are offering Sun readers up to £10 off tickets to London’s most iconic attractions.

Take your pick from four top attractions, including the London Eye, Madame Tussauds London, SEA LIFE London and The London Dungeon.

Join Sun Club for just £1.99 a month — don’t miss out.

If you fancy a spot of sightseeing, step inside the greatest view aboard the iconic London Eye. 

Enjoy unparalleled 360-degree views of the city as you rotate through the breathtaking skyline above South Bank.

See all your favourite landmarks from every elevated angle during a relaxing 30-minute rotation, spotting the Houses of Parliament, Buckingham Palace, and even Windsor Castle on a clear day.

For those who would rather rub shoulders with stars, step through the world-famous doors of Madame Tussauds London and immerse yourself into the world of superstars as you attend the ultimate fame experience. 

Get closer than ever to A-listers like John Boyega and Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson, perform with Drake and Dua Lipa, or attend a private audience with Their Majesties King Charles III and Queen Camilla.

Alternatively, you can dive into an underwater adventure at SEA LIFE London. Come face to fin with your favourite creatures including sting rays, jelly fish, sharks, turtles and more. 

Journey through incredible themed zones such as Coral Kingdom and Open Oceans. Soak up fun facts about marine life and learn about conservation and SEA LIFE’S mission to protect the ocean and its creatures.

Or if you are feeling brave, the London Dungeon offers a uniquely thrilling journey into the city’s darkest history. 

Bringing together an amazing cast of theatrical actors, special effects, stages, scenes and thrilling rides. 

Each showcasing hysterically horrible history across a series of immersive shows, including the Torturer, sinister witch trials and many other spine-chilling shows. 

HOW TO BOOK YOUR TICKETS

There are two ways to unlock the savings and book your tickets:

Sun Club:

Join Sun Club for £1.99 per month or £12 for the year to claim this offer and many more.

Go to the Offers Hub and find the Sun Superdays page.

Follow the steps on this page to book your tickets from 11am on Monday, March 23.

Sun Savers:

1. Download the Sun Savers app or sign up at sunsavers.co.uk. Go to the Offers and click “Click Collecting” on the Sun Superdays page.
2. Pick up The Sun and collect TWO Sun Savers codes. We will print one code daily in the paper between Saturday, March 21 – Friday, March 27.
3. Go to the Offers section and find the Sun Superdays page and follow the steps on this page to book your tickets from 11am on Monday, March 23.

Join Sun Club for just £1.99 a month — don’t miss out.

18+ UK only (exc. IoM & CI). Sun Savers multiple code collect 21/03/26-27/03/26 or subscription to Sun Club or Digital Newspaper required.  Book by 22/04/26. Offer valid for ‘up to £10 off’ tickets at selected London Merlin UK attractions. Pricing varies, £10 off adult tickets and £7-£4 off child tickets. Exclusions may apply. Subject to availability. Non-transferable & non-refundable. Online access required. New customer offer: £1.99 per month or £12 per year unless you cancel at least seven days before your next billing date. Full T&Cs apply, see sunsavers.co.uk or club.thesun.co.uk/sun-club.

©The London Eye 2026 all rights reserved. Conceived and designed by Marks Barfield Architects. Any images shown of Madame Tussauds depicts wax figures created and owned by Madame Tussauds.

THE UK is heating up today, with highs of 20C making it hotter than places in Athens and Ibiza.

So if you fancy a last minute trip to the beach, we’ve rounded up 11 of the best which you can get to by train from a UK city in less than 60 minutes.

Weston-super-Mare – 19 minutes from Bristol

One of the closest beaches to Bristol, Weston-super-Mare can often get a bad rap as a seaside town.

But the huge new £20million Weston Placemaking Strategy will regenerate the town as part of a 10-year plan, which includes a new waterpark and reopened pier.

We spoke to a couple who have been going there for 55 years – here’s what they love about it.

Great Yarmouth – 25 minutes from Norwich

Great Yarmouth is also getting a huge revamp, with a £40million upgrade including North Quay and the Victorian Winter Gardens.

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A traditional beach, it is even home to Great Yarmouth Pleasure Beach, which was named one of the UK’s best theme parks.

Here are some of Sun Readers top tips on what to do in Great Yarmouth.

Southend-on-Sea – 53 minutes from London

Nicknamed the British Miami, Essex’s Southend-on-Sea is one of the coolest seasides on the list.

You might spot a celeb at the Roslin Beach Hotel which has welcomed everyone from Gary Barlow and Tyson Fury to Denise van Outen and TOWIE stars.

We’ve rounded up some other things to do there, including the free-to-visit theme park.

Exmouth – 20 minutes from Exeter

Devon‘s oldest seaside resort, Exmouth has it all from playgrounds and chippies to cheap Haven holiday parks.

It’s also on the new 2,700 coastal path which is the longest of its kind in the world – if you fancy a bit of a hike.

The Sun’s travel reporter Cyann Fielding explains why she loved visiting the beach as a child.

Cromer – 45 minutes from Norwich

Did you know that Britain has its own Great Barrier Reef – and it is less than an hour by train from Norwich?

Cromer is not only one of the warmest beaches in the UK (outside of summer) but it is also famous for its delicious Cromer crab.

Sun travel reporter Alice Penwill explains why she loves going to Cromer.

Brighton – 58 minutes from London

One of the UK’s most popular beaches, Brighton just squeezes under the one-hour-train mark.

A recent study even found that it has the most pubs per person so you can grab a pint to take to the beach.

Our Assistant Travel Editor Sophie Swietochowski reveals how to do a weekend in the famous seaside town from the best shops to beautiful hotels.

Hunstanton – 50 minutes from Cambridge

Named one of the best seaside spots in the UK by Time Out, Hunstanton is your traditional seaside resort.

It lays claim to having the best sunset views, being the only spot on the East coast that faces West.

Sun travel reporter Jenna Stevens explains why you should visit other parts of the nearby county too.

North Berwick – 30 minutes from Edinburgh

North Berwick has two main sandy beaches, Milsey Bay and West Beach, so really its two trips in one.

According to the Scottish Tourist Board, it is still a “hidden gem” and “largely unspoilt”.

We’ve rounded up some other things to know about the tiny resort.

Folkestone – 55 minutes from London

The Kent town of Folkestone is getting a lot of hype at the moment – from the new ‘UK’s biggest beach sauna’ to the reopening on the seaside funicular this summer after years of closure.

Less than an hour from London, it was even named one of the best places to live in the UK.

Deputy Travel Editor Kara Godfrey has revealed everything to look forward to in the town this year.

Crosby Beach – 25 minutes from Liverpool

One of the best places to spot the Northern Lights is, unusually, Crosby Beach near Liverpool.

It’s other claim to fame is being home to an Antony Gormley “Another Place” art installation, of which there are 100 cast-iron figures across the coastline.

Here are some other things to do in the nearby area.

Barry Island – 33 minutes from Cardiff

If you’re a Gavin and Stacy fan, you’ll know Barry Island and its just half an hour by train from the nearest city of Cardiff.

It has everything from Barry Island Pleasure Park, as well as a huge stretch of beach with all you need from chippies to arcades.

We spoke to the locals who gave us their top tips on what to visit in Barry Island.

TOY stores can often be a place of pure happiness for children – and one of the most famous stores in the UK is making even more reasons to visit.

Hamleys in London is the world’s oldest toy shop, with its first site opening back in 1760 under the name Noah’s Ark.

Originally in High Holburn, the much-loved toy store is now on Regent Street, where it has stood since 1881.

Across seven floors there are thousands of toys to explore and each year the store welcomes around five million visitors.

And now there is even more of a reason to go as the giant toy store is launching lots of new events – and most of them are free.

Keane Herman, Business Head Hamleys UK, said: “As the finest and oldest toy shop in the world, Hamleys has been creating magical moments for
children and families for more than 266 years.

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“By keeping our eye on what’s current, trending and relevant, we continue to elevate the experiences we create in store.

“There is always something happening at our Regent Street flagship.

“From live toy demonstrations and interactive play experiences to dance parties and puppet shows, it is this sense of energy and theatre that makes Hamleys so special.

“We pay close attention to what resonates with children and parents, and to the trends shaping the world of play, so that we can continually offer fresh and memorable experiences.”

Last year, the store launched the Hamleys Bus and Lights Your at Christmas which proved to be such a success that the store is bringing it back for Easter this year.

And the store has already hosted a number of brand pop-ups including one with dessert brand Vnilla, who are well-known for creating banana pudding just like the famous Magnolia Bakery’s in New York.

Herman added: “These events and experiences are a natural extension of our daily in-store theatre, giving children the chance to be even more hands-on and to immerse themselves in the magic of play.

“Our heritage is incredibly important to us, but what keeps Hamleys thriving is our commitment to continually evolving.

“Families come to Hamleys not just to shop, but to make memories together, and that sense of wonder is something we are proud to deliver for every new generation.”

Coming up, there are lots of daily events at Hamleys to enjoy.

For example, every day at 10am (or 12pm on Sundays) when the store opens, there is an opening ceremony with Hamley Bear, who you can also meet at 1pm and 2:30pm each day.

At the weekends, the Hamleys Beary Grand Parade takes place at 4pm each day with dancing and singing.

This is followed by Mr Monkey’s Puppet Show at 4:30pm, where Mr Monkey is searching for his next big adventure.

And then at 5:30pm there is the Hamleys Dance Medley, where magical moments from the toy store’s history are brought back to life, including a princess’s first ball and a pirate’s first adventure.

Between March 28 and April 12 (the Easter school holidays), there are loads of events on as well.

For example, you could watch Chef Choco’s Chocolatiers Puppet Show, where you can learn about the secrets of sweet making and even become a sweet maker yourself.

The show will be on every day throughout the period, at 4:30pm.

On March 28, catch Midnight in the Toyshop come to life at Hamleys, with Ballerina and Rebel Racer giving a live performance.

Performances will be at 11am, 12pm, 1pm, 2pm, 3pm and 4pm.

If your kids love slime, then make sure to head to the Hamleys Regent Street Basement from March 24 to April 12 for a Gootopia Experience Zone, where kids can create their own slime and take home a ‘gooey masterpiece’.

The experience will cost £15.99 per person.

Every day at 4pm between March 28 and April 12 there will also be a Hamleys Rainbow Ribbons Parade across every floor of the store.

Also, over the Easter school holidays there will be Hamleys Storytime, with tales of Peter Rabbit and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory every day at 12pm, 1pm, 2pm and 3pm.

Towards the end of the Easter holidays on April 6, families can meet the Playmobil Pirates at 12pm, 1pm, 2pm, 3pm and 4pm.

And last but not least, each day at 1pm and 2:30pm there will be a Hamley and Hattie Easter meet and greet.

Officially launching on March 17, there will also be a new Pokémon destination on the Regent Street store’s fourth floor.

The new Pokémon area will feature interactive experiences such as character appearances, and on March 21, a launch event will be held with Pokémon-themed candy floss and activities for visitors.

Later in early April, a Tubbz zone will open inside the Regent Street store in the basement.

In the zone, visitors will be able to grab iconic pop culture characters that have been transformed into cosplaying ducks.

For more things to do with kids, these are London’s best free indoor attractions for families – perfect for rainy days.

Plus, the best UK family days out from £10 to completely free in the Easter holidays.

A HUGE new £1.1million attraction is set to transform one of the world’s trendiest neighbourhoods – which is in the UK.

Margate’s Cliftonville was named the coolest street in the UK by Time Out last year.

And an abandoned area on the seafront is set to be transformed into a free-to-use skatepark,

Set to cost around £1.1million, it is being designed by Betongpark Limited who are behind a number of skateparks in the UK, including the converted Victorian bathhouse Manor Place.

Opening on Ethelbert Crescent, it will be free for all skill levels, with plans for workshops and events as well.

Along with the skating area, there will be new seating areas, a kiosk with toilets.

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It had hoped to open by this summer, although this hasn’t been confirmed.

Daryl Nobbs, Director of Betongpark, said: “As a team of lifelong skaters, we’re pleased to be building the new park on the site of the former DIY skatepark, working closely alongside a strong local scene.

“Once built, the new concrete skatepark will be one of the UK’s best, set in a beautiful location overlooking the waterfront.

“The concept design includes a range of street and transition-focused elements across a vast site, to provide something for everyone.”

The project is part of the £22.2million Margate Town Deal.

Other plans include improving Walpole Bay, home to one of the UK’s biggest tidal pools.

A new cafe, shower and toilet block and community spaces are part of the improvement plans.

Both Theatre Royal Margate and the Winter Gardens also hope to reopen.

I lived in Cliftonville for a few years after leaving London, and saw how quickly it was changing for the better.

New locally run restaurants and bars were opening, including wine bar Sete as well as the new pub The Local Light.

Margate House is one of the coolest new hotels with its new Willy’s restaurant serving ‘comfort food dishes’.

It still has a way to go – there are ongoing problems with fly tipping in the area and some of the high street still has shops that have been boarded up for years.

But the community is what makes it, from the weekend farmers markets to the huge number of pop up events.

In the mean time, here is everything new coming to Folkestone this year as part of a £20million expansion.

And we’ve rounded up our favourite places in Kent.