stunning

Staycations in the UK are booming, and it’s no wonder as three hotels in the UK have been named among the best in the world – and they are easy to access for Brits looking for a relaxing break

Three UK hotels have been named in the Hotel Awards 2025, celebrating the best new and renovated places to stay across the world – and they might be right on your doorstep.

From a wellness haven to a foodie’s dream on an upscale farm and a cosy and romantic retreat, these three hotels all have unique offerings which has made them stand out as some of the best places in the world.

With UK staycations a popular way for people to take a break without the need to jet off abroad, these hidden gems nestled in the UK are perfect.

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Saltmoore Hotel, North Yorkshire

In the Wellness category, Saltmoore hotel located in the North Yorkshire Moors was awarded the runner up. Offering a true British take on wellness, the 72-room retreat is defintiely one to make you relax.

With serene landscape views, that also encouraging wild swims and bracing beach walks, guests can recharge in rooms that come in all different designs from snugs hid away in the eaves to four poster bed in the suites. Prices start from £280.

Fowlescombe Farm, Devon

In the food category, Fowlescombe Farm, in Devon, England took the top spot. It takes “all-inclusive” to the next level as every meal is taken care of, of course, along with a daily programme of activities.

Located on a regenerative farm, guests can get stuck in and learn exactly where their food comes from – and each stay is tailored to guests individual interests.

You could spend your morning gathering fresh eggs and then a yoga session in the greenhouse. Later on, there is the chance to forage along the hedgerows for cooking ingredients, knead dough with the chefs or feed the livestock with the farmer.

The menu is curated each day, based on what has been grown, harvested and pulled from the sea.

With just 10 suites, guests are all spread across restored stone barns and a Victorian farmhouse, each with views over orchards or grass meadows and showcasing local materials such as oak, wool and stone. Prices start from £415.

Swan Inn, West Sussex

Thirdly, for those looking for a bit more of a romantic escape, Swan Inn at Fittleworth came runner up in the romantic category. A 14th century West Sussex coaching inn, has been made into a luxurious country nestled amidst the picturesque hills of the South Downs.

With wonky wooden ceilings, wall panelling and freestanding bathtubs, it has a true authentic British feel to it all while cosy and relaxing. Prices start from £170.

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Frauds stars Jodie Whittaker and Suranne Jones as two confidence tricksters

A fresh ITV drama is scheduled to debut tonight (Sunday 5th October), which is certain to keep audiences on the edge of their seats.

Six-episode series Frauds focuses on two expert con artists named Sam and Bert, portrayed by Jodie Whittaker and Suranne Jones. Suranne also co-created the programme and worked as an executive producer.

The duo are brought back together following their separation during a gruelling ten-year prison term. Bert secures release on compassionate grounds due to a cancer diagnosis, yet she has no intention of taking it easy during her remaining weeks. Rather, she’s determined to execute one last job that will demonstrate her capabilities.

Bert and Sam quickly set out on the most daring of art robberies, assembling a crew of exceptionally talented misfits to assist them in plotting the crime.

“Whilst the team must overcome numerous challenges before they can pull off the heist, it’s the power struggle between Bert and Sam that threatens to derail their plans and destroy them both,” the synopsis concludes, reports the Liverpool Echo.

Alongside Suranne and Jodie, the programme also stars Talisa Garcia as Miss Take, Elizabeth Berrington as Jackie Diamond, and Karan Gill as Bilal Anwar.

The ensemble is rounded out by Thais Martin as Caitlin, Javier Taboada as Blas, Christian Cooke as Deegs, Lee Boardman as Craig, Kate Fleetwood as Celine, Nansi Nsue as Amaya, and Abdul Salis as Mateo.

Where was Frauds filmed?

Frauds was shot in Tenerife earlier this year, highlighting the island’s breathtaking remote terrain and glistening coastline.

Speaking at a recent press event, the show’s co-creator Anne-Marie O’Connor revealed: “The setting of Spain [felt] like a character. How arid it is, how unforgiving it is once you’re outside of the city. And as Brits, we all know Spain, we all know a version of Spain… Once you get outside of that world, you’re back in a very sort of arid landscape.”

Executive producer Katie Kelly chimed in: “We always knew that’s where it would be set, but shooting in Tenerife offered us everything we needed and more. In a small area you can have a sort of Costa del Sol beachside strip full of clubs (with everything from drag clubs to a magician’s show), and then suddenly you can find yourself in what looks like an old Spanish town or up in lush, verdant mountains.

“In developing the show we were also quite influenced by Westerns and in that part of the world you’ve also got these desert landscapes which are vast and feel epic and dry and bring a really interesting flavour and tone to the show.”

Sam’s secluded cottage was located in a quaint northern town named La Laguna.

“It was amazing, but it rained a lot. Didn’t matter – it was stunning. It is literally gonna be in my top five places in life, I loved it so much,” Jodie Whittaker shared.

“I’ve been to the south like as a kid on family holidays and never really realised how much we’re missing out by not heading up north. You know Santa Cruz is a brilliant little city too. That’s a great thing about this job – you get to live in these incredible places for a little window in your life.”

In the series, Bert decides that she wants to steal a famous painting from the Reina Sofía museum in Madrid, where filming actually took place.

“I remember Anne-Marie and I were just walking around the Reina Sofía in the middle of the night, and it was just closed for us,” lead director Giulia Gandini recalled.

She then joked: “And we were just wandering around thinking, ‘Yeah, we could really steal something right now. We could pull this off.'”

Anne-Marie added: “Also, as well, it’s that thing of like, you know, sometimes if you just ask you get. I mean, I wasn’t responsible for asking, but it was like, ‘They said yeah’. And I was like, ‘Alright then. You know we’re nicking a painting out of here, don’t you?'”

As well as making good use of Spain’s stunning landscapes, the team also cast several Spanish actors that “understood the acting and directing style” of the UK-created series.

Frauds will premiere on Sunday 5th October at 9pm on ITV1 and ITVX

AMAZON has blindsided shopper with a shock device sale, days before its Prime Big Deal Days sale is due to kick off.

One of the best deals is on a premium Fire tablet, which has been reduced to £69.99 in an epic 53% price cut.

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Amazon Fire HD 10 tablet, £69.99 (was £149.99)

The next big Amazon sale starts next week, running from Tuesday to Wednesday (October 7th-8th).

Tons of prices will be slashed during Amazon Prime Day but only, of course, if you’re a Prime member.

But Amazon has launched an early device sale across its range of smart items, including Echo speakers, Kindles, Ring doorbells, Blink cameras Fire TV streaming sticks, and Fire tablets.

And better yet, these are deals open to all shoppers, not just those with a Prime membership.

The Fire HD 10 tablet (the newest generation) usually costs £149.99, but has now been slashed to an impressive £69.99.

This 10-inch device is now the best-selling tablet on the Amazon website – little wonder, with that enormous price drop.

Amazon’s line of Fire tablets are great, all-purpose devices for browsing and streaming – especially for shoppers who want to stay away from the big bucks of more powerful devices like Apple iPads and Samsung Tabs.

It also doubles up as an e-reader, though dedicated book-lovers should gravitate towards the retailer’s Kindle range.

These will all invariably go on sale next week when Prime Day begins (though a few select models are already discounted).

Read our Amazon Fire vs Kindle tablet explainer if you’re not sure which to buy.

The Fire HD 10 is perfect for watching, reading, and gaming, and it’s 25% faster than the old model.

Basically, its engine got a major upgrade – it now has a powerful processor and 3 GB of RAM, which helps everything run super-smoothly.

You get awesome HD entertainment on a big 10.1-inch screen that makes all your games and shows look great with brilliant colour.

(By the way, if you want something smaller and cheaper, the 8-inch Fire HD 8 is also on sale for just £49.99.)

The tablet has serious stamina: you can binge-watch for up to 13 hours without needing to plug into its charger.

The tablet is durable, too, with a strengthened screen that Amazon claims to to be 2.7 times tougher than the Samsung Galaxy Tab A8 (2022) in a drop test.

Need a good device to chat with friends and family? The 5MP front camera is way better for video calls than squinting at your small phone screen.

For storage, it comes with 32GB or 64GB of space, which is expandable by up to 1TB with a separate microSD card.

And this being an Amazon gadget, you can operate it via Alexa – it can help you out with streaming videos, relaying the latest news and controlling other smart devices in the same connected ecosystem.

Amazon Prime Day: early Fire Tablet Deals

• Amazon Fire HD 10 tablet (newest gen), £69.99 (was £149.99) – buy here
• Amazon Fire Max 11 tablet (newest gen), £129.99 (was £249.99) – buy here
• Amazon Fire HD 8 tablet (newest gen), £49.99 (was £99.99) – buy here
• Amazon Fire HD 8 Kids Pro tablet (newest gen), £79.99 (was £159.99) – buy here
• Amazon Fire HD 8 Kids tablet (newest gen), £69.99 (was £149.99) – buy here

The Fire HD 10 has already racked up over 2,700 five-star reviews on the Amazon website, with customers heaping praise on the device:

“The Amazon Fire HD 10 is a fantastic budget-friendly tablet,” writes one shopper.

“The 10.1-inch screen is bright and clear, perfect for watching videos, reading, or browsing.

“The battery easily lasts up to 13 hours – ideal for all-day use.”

Another delighted customer added: “Quality item… I can’t get over the size of the screen, it’s 10 inches but looks bigger.

“The tablet is lightning-fast, and it does everything that I expect from an Amazon Fire… Well worth the investment.”

A lot more deals are on the way when the Prime Big Deal Days sale starts next week, and it’s worth keeping in mind that these early device deals might become exclusively for Prime members.

So, while this current deal is marked on the Amazon site as ending on October 14th, it’s not impossible it will only be available for Amazon Prime members soon.

Anyone without a Prime account who’s interested shouldn’t hold off for too long on buying.

Amazon Fire HD 10 tablet, £69.99 (was £149.99)

Make sure you bookmark our best Amazon Prime Day deals page, where we’ll be listing all the top bargains when the two-day sale kicks off.

For our top pick of smart gadgets available to snap up right now, head to our Amazon device deals page.

Amazon Prime Day: the 10 best early deals

The Amazon Prime Big Deal Days sale doesn’t kick off until next week (7th-8th October), but there’s already some early deals to snap up.

*If you click on a link in this boxout we will earn affiliate revenue

1. Blink Smart Camera & Doorbell bundle, £31.49 (was £119.98) – buy here
2. Poounur Fitness Smartwatch, £23.99 (was £129.99) – buy here
3. Hangsun 12L/Day Dehumidifier, £88.38 (was £118.98) – buy here
4. LKOUY Portable Charger, £12.99 (was £59.99) – buy here
5. Slumberdown Feels Like Down King Size Duvet, £21.56 (was £31.19) – buy here
6. Remington Proluxe Ceramic Hair Straightener, £34.99 (was £109.99) – buy here
7. Swan Pump Espresso Digital Coffee Machine, £149.99 (was £299.99) – buy here
8. Amazon Fire HD 10 tablet, £69.99 (was £149.99) – buy here
9. LKE 268W UV Nail Lamp, £16.14 (was £28.99) – buy here
10. EverFoams Women’s Shearling Memory Foam Slippers, £15.97 (was £22.99) – buy here

When the sale lands, you’ll find more top bargains here:

Vienna, the capital of Austria, and Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia, are just 31 miles apart and both have a lot to offer tourists

Europe’s two nearest capital cities are both stunning and merely 31 miles apart.

Vienna, Austria’s capital, and Bratislava, Slovakia’s capital are practically neighbours. Must-see spots in the Austrian capital feature Schönbrunn Palace, the former summer retreat of the Hapsburg dynasty; the gothic St Stephen’s Cathedral – and the Hofburg, which served as the Hapsburg’s main imperial residence and now houses the Spanish Riding School.

Additional draws include the magnificent St Stephen’s Cathedral, the Sigmund Freud Museum and the Staatsoper opera and ballet venue. Vienna boasts its own gastronomic treasures such as scrumptious chocolate and mouth-watering Wiener Schnitzels to satisfy food lovers. It’s also regularly listed amongst Europe’s most liveable destinations.

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One study conducted by the Economist found that Vienna possessed “an unsurpassed combination of stability, good infrastructure, strong education, and healthcare services, and plenty of culture and entertainment”.

The metropolis is also considered amongst the world’s cleanest and most environmentally-friendly, featuring numerous public gardens situated along the River Danube’s shores.

Just over an hour’s journey downstream lies Bratislava, which rivals Prague or Budapest whilst offering fewer tourists and lower costs, reports the Express.

The destination showcases aspects of medieval, Rococo, Baroque and 20th-century modernism, typical of most former communist capitals. The Old Town is a picture-perfect spot, with its pastel-coloured buildings and cobbled streets lined with cafes and restaurants.

OPINION

This is where you’ll find the majority of the city’s historic architecture. Bratislava Castle, perched on an isolated hill of the Little Carpathians, is arguably the city’s most significant landmark. Its size and location have made it a dominant feature of the landscape since it was first built in the 9th century.

The Town Hall, constructed in the 14th century, is another notable building. Michael’s Gate, the only remaining gate from the medieval fortifications, is one of the city’s oldest structures.

A more unusual landmark is Bratislava’s UFO Tower, which sits on the riverbank offering panoramic views of the city. It also houses a restaurant at the top.

Other capital cities that are close to each other include Rome and Vatican City in Italy, Pyong in North Korea and Seoul in South Korea, and Buenos Aires in Argentina and Montevideo in Uruguay.

The Chinese People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) has demonstrated its ability to launch and recover aircraft from its first catapult-equipped aircraft carrier, the Fujian. Official imagery released by the PLAN today confirms that the new J-35 naval stealth fighters and KJ-600 airborne early warning and control aircraft are carrying out carrier trials, something that had not been seen until now. Meanwhile, we’ve also got a much better view of the J-15T single-seat carrier-based fighter launching and recovering aboard Fujian, having previously seen it in position for a catapult launch with its afterburners engaged. The sudden appearance of video of all three aircraft operating from the ship for the first time is something of a stunning revelation, one of many that has come this year from China’s air power portfolio.

The undated videos and photos showing flight operations aboard Fujian reveal examples of all three aircraft being prepared for catapult launch, taking off, and then making arrested recoveries. The aircraft are also shown in flight, including in formation with a J-15D series electronic warfare aircraft, and Fujian is shown from above, with the J-35, KJ-600, and J-15T arranged on its deck.

Fujian has been conducting sea trials since May 2024, and there have been growing signs that fixed-wing flight operations were underway. In August of this year, official imagery showed J-15s on the deck of the carrier and flying at low level above it. At that stage, however, there were no clear indications that the J-15 had actually taken off from and/or landed on Fujian.

An earlier video is shown below of J-15 activity aboard Fujian, but without presenting any carrier takeoffs or recoveries:

First-ever official footage of flight operations aboard China’s newest, soon-to-be commissioned aircraft carrier, CNS Fujian (18)

On the eve of the PLA’s 98th anniversary, PRC media released video showcasing another major milestone: integration tests between the electromagnetic… pic.twitter.com/wIrU4hxFi6

— Ian Ellis (@ianellisjones) July 31, 2025

While we don’t know how long these fixed-wing aircraft types have now been conducting flight operations aboard the carrier, revealing all three in action at once is something of a coup.

Of the three types, the J-15 family is a Chinese development of the Soviet-era Sukhoi Su-33 Flanker, with the T version being specifically developed for catapult launch. Earlier variants of the J-15, as well as the Su-33, were designed for use on short takeoff but assisted recovery (STOBAR) carriers with ‘ski jumps’ rather than catapults, like the PLAN’s first two flattops. The J-15T had previously been seen operating from these two earlier vessels, in which case it relies on the STOBAR mode. However, the addition of a catapult launch bar (and less visible additional structural modifications) means the T-model is very much optimized for Fujian, from which it will be able to launch at higher operating weights than in STOBAR mode.

The J-35 is the PLAN’s next-generation carrier fighter, a stealthy design that was intended to conduct catapult takeoff but assisted recovery (CATOBAR) operations from the outset. Developed from the land-based FC-31, there are also signs that the J-35, like the J-15T, might also eventually embark on the Liaoning and Shandong. Until now, however, it hadn’t been seen taking part in any kind of carrier operations, other than in the form of mock-ups.

As for the KJ-600, the size and performance of this aircraft mean that it’s only suitable for CATOBAR operations, restricting its use to Fujian and any follow-on carriers. At least three examples are seen on the deck of Fujian. This aircraft will fulfill the same role as the U.S. Navy’s E-2 Hawkeye, and, although not a direct copy, it is extremely similar both in size and overall design.

Also seen in the new imagery is the Z-9 helicopter, a license-produced variant of the Eurocopter (now Airbus Helicopters) AS365 Dauphin. Z-9s are also part of the air wings found on China’s STOBAR carriers, including for use as plane guards while fixed-wing aircraft are launching and recovering, and the type has been seen on the deck of Fujian, too, in the past.

Overall, testing Fujian’s abilities to launch and recover fixed-wing aircraft is a critical part of the path to operational service. However, it has added resonance since not only is the carrier fully homegrown, but so are the J-35 and KJ-600, the most important elements of its air wing, and they have not previously been to sea, at least in an operational capacity. The PLAN is therefore introducing to service a new carrier design and at least two new naval aircraft designs simultaneously, which is impressive by any measure.

Just as significant is the fact that Fujian is equipped with electromagnetically powered catapults, the testing of which first began in 2023 while the ship was still being fitted out.

In contrast to the U.S. Navy, which gathered decades of experience with steam-powered catapults, China opted for electromagnetic ones for its first CATOBAR carrier. It’s worth noting that the U.S. Navy’s USS Gerald R. Ford was the first carrier ever to get an aircraft into the air using what is also referred to as an electromagnetic aircraft launch system (EMALS). However, it has not launched an F-35C so far, making the J-35 the first stealth jet to achieve this feat. Based on earlier predictions, the F-35C may not do the same for some years.

As we have discussed in the past, electromagnetic catapults offer several advantages, not least the fact that they can be more finely tuned to very different aircraft types, including ones that are larger and slower (like the KJ-600), or which are smaller and lighter, such as smaller drones. EMALS are also less mechanically complex than their predecessors, providing lower reset times that can help boost sortie-generation rate. On the other hand, the technology behind the electromagnetic catapults on USS Gerald R. Ford proved to be hard to master, causing issues for years before the U.S. Navy said it was able to mitigate them.

While the latest imagery from Fujian’s trials focuses on traditionally crewed fixed-wing airpower, it’s very likely that this carrier, and other aviation-capable PLAN ships, will eventually operate advanced uncrewed platforms. In this case, the capabilities offered by EMALS are particularly relevant. The PLAN is known to be working on advanced uncrewed combat air vehicles (UCAVs) and other types of drones that can be launched from carriers and big-deck amphibious warfare ships. Fujian will surely be no exception in this regard.

Videos provide a comparison of a STOBAR J-15 carrier launch and a CATOBAR J-15T launch from Fujian:

Whatever trials and tribulations the PLAN might have faced with its new homegrown carrier, its advanced electromagnetic catapults, and its new-look air wing, the Fujian project is indicative of a broader modernization drive within the service.

As well as increasingly advanced and powerful surface combatants and submarines, China is understood to be already working on its next CATOBAR carrier. Generally referred to as the Type 004, this may also be nuclear-powered.

The expanding PLAN carrier force also reflects growing strategic ambitions for the PLAN, as it pivots toward being able to take part in higher-end regional missions, such as intervention against Taiwan, as well as longer-range blue water operations in the Pacific and beyond.

For China, therefore, Fujian is much more than just a point of national and naval pride. With the carrier now expected to enter operational service by the end of this year, we will surely learn more about this landmark design for the PLAN, and the various aircraft that will serve aboard it.

Contact the author: [email protected]

Australia’s Ash Gardner hits a 77-ball century as the defending champions secure an 89-run victory in their opening match of the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup against New Zealand.

MATCH REPORT: ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup – Australia v New Zealand

Available to UK users only.

LOOKING for some domestic help around the house this autumn?

Head straight to Amazon, where there’s a self-emptying robot vacuum on a massive, limited-time sale, slashed to under £200.

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Vexilar Self-Emptying Robot Vacuum
Cleaner, £199.98 (was £329.99)

Robot vacuums come in a wide variety of budgets and capabilities, from basic models that just sweep to high-end devices that map your entire home and even mop.

But you don’t always have to splash the cash for great features, as Amazon often drops the price on some leading cleaning devices.

Right now, you can snap up the Vexilar Self-Emptying Robot Vacuum Cleaner for an absolutely steal.

It was priced at £329.99, but is currently reduced to just £199.98 – that’s a discount of almost 40%.

We in the Sun Shopping team haven’t tested out this particular models ourselves – for some tested recommendations, you’ll need to head to our best robot vacuum cleaners page.

But this device has proved incredibly popular with shoppers, currently ranking as the third-best selling robot vacuum on the Amazon site.

The Vexilar packs two pieces of impressive tech for a price that’s now firmly in budget territory.

Firstly, it’s unusual to get a robot vacuum for less than £200 that comes with a self-emptying bin – that’s usually the domain of premium devices.

(I recently reviewed a flagship robot vac that self-empties, but it costs a whopping £1,119 – read my Eureka J15 Max Ultra review if you’re curious.)

The Vexilar’s base station contains a 2L dust bag, which is advertised to last for 60 days before you need to empty it.

That’s a massive plus for busy households.

Secondly, there’s the laser-mapping, which is something you’ll not often see with cheaper devices.

Basically, its Advanced LDS Laser Navigation will precisely map your home in 360 degrees, allowing it to plan the most efficient cleaning route.

It even lets you set virtual ‘no-go’ zones and customise suction or water levels for specific rooms via the app.

When it comes to power, the vacuum boasts a 6000Pa suction, and the manufacturer says it’s effective at tackling pet hair and debris on everything from hardwood floors to low-pile carpets.

The device also has a long 180-minute runtime on a single charge in quiet mode, before returning to its base station to re-charge.

You can control it via the companion app, or connect it to your smart home using Alexa, Google Home, or Siri – that’s seriously hands-off cleaning.

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Vexilar Self-Emptying Robot Vacuum
Cleaner, £199.98 (was £329.99)

Over 800 people have left five-star reviews on the Amazon page for this device.

“Worth it – powerful, reliable, and hassle-free,” says one happy customer.

“[I’m] really happy with this robot vacuum. Easy to set up, cleans well, and the auto-empty base is a big time saver.

It navigates around furniture without any issues and picks up dust and pet hair easily… Makes life a lot easier. Definitely recommend.”

Another shopper writes: “I’ve been using this for a few days now but oh boy! I’m honestly impressed!

“The battery lasts long enough to finish the whole house, and if it runs low it goes back, recharges and picks up where it left off.

“I also like that I can control it with the app or just ask Alexa to start cleaning,” said another.

“Worth every penny, don’t hesitate!” wrote a third shopper, while other buyers described it

“Complete game-changer,” commented a fourth.

“Life-changing,” was the verdict of a fifth reviewer.

This huge saving on the Vexilar Self-Emptying Robot Vacuum Cleaner is marked as a limited-time deal, so you shouldn’t wait too long if you want to bag this bargain.

Keep in mind that Amazon Prime Day is happening next week (October 7th-8th), and it’s not impossible that this device could drop even lower in price.

However, any potential further discount will likely be a deal only available to Amazon Prime members.

Shoppers getting winter-ready shouldn’t miss a superb deal on a heated throw, which has been reduced by 54% on Amazon.

Summer has ended, and the sweater weather is taking over – in search of finding the best autumn walk in the UK, The Flash and Three Shires in the Peak District ranked third in the list.

There’s nothing quite like a crisp autumn stroll, with the vibrant hues of the trees and the crunch of leaves underfoot.

We’re spoilt for choice in the UK with an array of stunning autumn walks right across the country. However, new research suggests that the Peak District might just be the ultimate destination for leaf-peeping this season.

Parkdean Resorts conducted a study to identify the UK’s best autumn walks, using data from TikTok, and three of the top ten spots were located in the Peak District. The trend for #Autumnwalks is currently sweeping TikTok, with over 10,600 videos showcasing various picturesque locations shared on the platform.

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The Flash and Three Shires in the Peak District clinched the third spot on the list, racking up 340,100 views. This 6km walk, named after the meeting point of Derbyshire, Cheshire and Staffordshire counties, offers breathtaking views of autumn foliage.

Coming in fourth place is the Butterley Reservoir, tucked away in the Wessenden Valley in West Yorkshire. Situated at the northern edge of the national park, this scenic walk has amassed over 236,000 views on TikTok. Rounding out the top ten is Bottoms reservoir, located just outside of Hadfield, which has garnered 82,500 TikTok views.

Wales claimed the top two spots for autumn walks: Hafren Forest in Powys and Aberglaslyn Pass in Snowdonia, reports the Manchester Evening News. The former boasts a variety of routes featuring waterfalls and riverside views, including an accessible boardwalk route.

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Aberglaslyn Pass, on the other hand, guides you through a stunning gorge, alongside the tranquil Glaslyn river and through the picturesque village of Beddgelert.

The route also takes in the serene waters of Llyn Dinas and the historic copper mine workings of Sygun and Cwm Bychan.

The UK’s top 10 autumn strolls

• Hafren Forest, Powys, Mid Wales
• Aberglaslyn Pass, Snowdonia, North Wales
• Flash and Three Shires Head, Peak District, Staffordshire
• Butterley Reservoir, Peak District, West Yorkshire
• Hermitage Bridge, Perthshire, Scotland
• Conic Hill, Stirling, Scotland
• Blea Tarn, Lake District, Cumbria
• Lochgoilhead, Argyll and Bute, West Scotland
• Glencoe Lochan, Glencoe, Scottish Highlands
• Bottoms Reservoir, Peak District, Derbyshire

The mesmerising finish with a 16-pass move that criss-crossed the pitch, and had Harry Robertson beat a number of tackles along the way, sets up a semi-final trip to Hull KR on Saturday, 4 October.

As Super League’s two most successful clubs, sharing 17 Grand Final wins between them, the showdown at Headingley between the fourth and fifth placed teams promised to enthral.

Both sides made a number of changes for the knockout tie, with Saints’ backs reshuffled after winger Kyle Feldt was injured in last week’s win against Castleford, while Leeds could again call on the prolific Ryan Hall and Man of Steel nominee Jake Connor.

Scrum-half Connor played a part in Leeds’ opening try, with the ball quickly shifted through the hands of Lachie Miller and Ash Handley before finding Hankinson to dive over.

The try from Hankinson, after he spilled a high ball at the other end to invite pressure on Leeds, summed up the chaotic nature of the opening exchanges.

A combination of luck and quick thinking had Saints pull level, after Curtis Sironen managed to take a high kick before then offloading for Morgan Knowles, who spilled the ball.

The forward, however, thrust a boot out to turn what seemed destined to be a knock-on into a sublime grubber kick for Lomax to finish.

McDonnell went on to restore Leeds’ advantage as he bobbed and weaved his way through three attempted tackles to touch down on the half-hour mark.

Lees’ departure at half-time left Saints short on the bench on a physically taxing night in West Yorkshire as Leeds piled forward in search of more tries after the break.

Leeds went on to waste a succession of chances to add to their lead, with a captain’s challenge from Saints also seeing a Handley try scrubbed off.

At the other end it took a try-saving shove from Connor to keep Bennison from crossing over on the hour mark.

But the winger would go on to pull a try back to give Saints hope with four minutes left after Connor had put the hosts eight points up with his penalty.

A Leeds penalty conceded for offside allowed Saints one last chance to salvage a memorable result, which Wright did for the club that gave his season renewed purpose after leaving financially-troubled side Salford on loan in August.

It may not have the heat of Italy, but this tiny village sitting on the British coast is built to almost exactly reflect it – and it even has the same climate

Now that autumn has arrived and the season of chilly weather, gusts and downpours is upon us, many will fantasise about a getaway to an exotic location.

A Greek isle, the Spanish coastline or perhaps the Italian Riviera.

Whilst those yearning for a trip to the latter may find it’s not as challenging as they might imagine, with one tiny village nestled on the British shoreline designed to almost perfectly mirror it, albeit without the Aperol spritz and the pasta.

If you’ve been contemplating a UK break that feels far more exotic than it truly is, you’re in good company, but North Wales might just have the answer, at a fraction of the cost.

Its striking coastline, verdant hills, and a culture as vibrant as its surroundings, have emerged as a favourite for those seeking both adventure and relaxation – and its terrain isn’t a world away from the Cinque Terre – even if the climate may not always cooperate, reports the Express.

Nestled on the estuary of the River Dwyryd lies the charming Welsh treasure of Portmeirion. The brainchild of Sir Clough Williams-Ellis, constructed between 1925 and 1975 in the manner of an Italian village, its dwellings are adorned with vibrant hues, concealed passageways and flourishing gardens.

Given such a distinctive setting, it’s hardly surprising that the village captured the imagination of the film and television world.

Portmeirion boasts the remarkable distinction of being the actual “Village” in the iconic 1960s television series The Prisoner, featuring Patrick McGoohan. The programme chronicles the former spy imprisoned in the enigmatic village as he battles to keep his secrets safe.

Following a jaunt to the village, an enthusiast took to TripAdvisor to leave a glowing five-star review, saying: “Being a fan of the TV programme ‘The Prisoner’, I had always wanted to visit ‘the village’ and it didn’t disappoint! We had a stroll along the seaside walkway & came back through the woods. The village shop is dedicated to the TV programme & the prices inside were very reasonable – my wife & I loved it.”

Portmeirion isn’t just for fans of ‘The Prisoner’; its charm is universal, offering a myriad of unique experiences at every turn that make it an ideal spot for those who relish the sensation of being somewhere truly special.

And it’s not only enthusiasts of the show singing Portmeirion’s praises; Which? consumer experts have crowned the village as the top seaside spot in Wales.

Their endorsement reads: “The best seaside destination in Wales, Portmeirion in Gwynedd, is also one of the UK’s most unusual holiday villages.”

They praised the village, awarding top marks for both tourist attractions and the seafront, noting: “Visitors loved the architecture and its setting above a wide, sandy estuary – giving it five out of five stars for tourist attractions and for its seafront.”

Echoing this sentiment, another visitor shared their experience online: “What an amazing place! Fabulous, friendly staff, especially Dafyyd at the gate. Such a happy soul.

“We visited on a gorgeous, sunny day and had a lovely time wandering around looking at the beautiful buildings, soaking in the amazing views and eating our picnic.”

AN ICONIC Norwegian-style house featured in a TV show watched by millions – but do you recognise it?

Nestled in the picture postcard landscape of the Wye Valley in Hertfordshire, the wooden home appeared in a hit Netflix series.

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The Edwardian building features in Netflix’s high school comedy drama, Sex Education, which first aired in 2019.

It features prominently throughout the series and fans may have recognised it as the home of high schooler Otis Milburn and his mum Jean, played by Gillian Anderson.

The Scandinavian inspired property has room for 10 people and is located near the Forest of Dean with cycle trails and a river nearby for canoeing and fishing.

Fans will recognise certain rooms in the house from many of the scenes between Otis and Jean.

Built in 1912, it was initially used as a fishing lodge and also featured in Extraordinary Escapes on Channel 4.

With five bedrooms over three floors, the property has breathtaking panoramic views of the valley.

And the main bedroom can be found at the top of the house, spanning the entire floor.

As you approach the Norwegian-inspired home, you are immediately struck by it’s distinctive exterior.

It’s comprised of red wooden slats and white detailing amidst the expansive greenery on the slopes overlooking the River Wye.

It has a winding drive lined with trees leading up to a garage.

Viewers had the chance to own it in 2023 where it hit the market for an eye-watering £1.5 million.

It was renovated in 2002 that saw the conservatory dining room extended and a bespoke painted wood kitchen installed alongside a contemporary bathroom and shower rooms.

It was done in such a way that it blends effortlessly into the rest of the house.

Move outside and you’ll notice it’s beautiful gardens where there are steps that lead straight down to the river.

It also has a decked balcony where a Swedish hot back and stone pizza oven can be used as you take in the spectacular views.

The property’s 4.5 acres of land includes two greenhouses, a stone and tile outbuilding and an orchard.

It’s currently a private residence but fans used to be able to rent the whole house for £75 per person a night – but you can still admire its beauty from afar.

Other properties

There’s also this very famous house from an iconic 90s kids TV show that’s just hit the market for £1.1 million.

The property is located next to an breathtaking ocean view and was regularly featured in the Australian comedy drama.

And this breathtaking beachfront house featured in a beloved BBC drama

The stunning waterfront property on the Scottish west coast has picture postcard views of Loch Long and the Firth of Clyde.

Millions of Brits also grew up watching this iconic house on another beloved kids TV show.

If you need a clue, the character of Miss Hoolie lived in the property in the BBC series.

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Full men’s rankings

Here are the rankings of the top 30 men’s players in the world…

30. Michael Olise

29. Florian Wirtz

28. Virgil van Dijk

27. Declan Rice

26. Erling Haaland

25. Denzel Dumfries

24. Fabian Ruiz

23. Jude Bellingham

22. Alexis Mac Allister

21. Serhou Guirassy

20. Lautaro Martinez

19. Joao Neves, Paris Saint-Germain

18. Scott McTominay, Napoli

17. Robert Lewndowski, Barcelona

16. Vinicius Jr, Real Madrid

15. Viktor Gyokeres, Arsenal

14. Desire Doue, Paris Saint-Germain

13. Harry Kane, Bayern Munich

12. Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Paris Saint-Germain

11. Pedri, Barcelona

10. Nuno Mendes, Paris Saint-Germain

9. Gianluigi Donnarumma,  Paris Saint-Germain

8. Cole Palmer, Chelsea

7. Kylian Mbappe, Real Madrid

6. Achraf Hakimi, Paris Saint-Germain

5. Raphinha, Barcelona

4. Mohamed Salah, Liverpool

3. Vitinha, Paris Saint-Germain

2. Lamine Yamal, Barcelona

1. Ousmane Dembele, Paris Saint-Germain

PHILADELPHIA — For awhile there, it was beginning to look a lot like 2021.

That was the year the Rams went all-in, started fast, endured through a midseason losing streak and then went on to win the Super Bowl.

There is still a long way to go before Super Bowl LX will be played at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara.

But despite what coach Sean McVay and his players insisted after their collapse on Sunday against the defending Super Bowl-champion Philadelphia Eagles, it was no confidence builder.

Not in the short term anyway.

The Rams blew a 19-point third quarter lead, were set up to possibly win with a last-second field goal and then had that kick blocked and returned for a touchdown in a 33-26 defeat at Lincoln Financial Field.

“We had the game within our control kind of the whole time,” kicker Joshua Karty said, “and we come out of here with a loss, so [it] kind of sucks.”

When it comes to the Eagles, the Rams are accustomed to disappointment.

The Eagles (3-0) beat the Rams last season at SoFi Stadium. They beat them here in the snow in the NFC divisional round. And now they produced an epic comeback to send the Rams back to Los Angeles with another bitter loss.

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Gary Klein breaks down what went wrong for the Rams in their 33-26 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday.

It was a stunning defeat for a Rams team that an hour earlier appeared easily on its way to improving to 3-0 for the first time since their championship season.

The Rams had defeated the Houston Texans and the Tennessee Titans, but the matchup against the Eagles, quarterback Jalen Hurts and running back Saquon Barkley represented the first real test for a team McVay has described as the deepest in his eight-plus seasons.

The Rams again came close. And again they failed.

“These are the chances to be able to lean in and see what you’re really about,” McVay, who is now 1-6 against the Eagles, said of his team’s way forward.

Unlike last January, the temperature on Sunday was not frigid. It was sunny and warm, much like how the Rams must have felt early in the third quarter after they went ahead 26-7 on Matthew Stafford’s short touchdown pass to running back Kyren Williams.

It was a seemingly comfortable lead, even for a Rams team that had settled for multiple field goals instead of touchdowns because of poor execution inside the 20-yard line.

The Rams even had their nemesis Barkley — he of four long touchdown runs against them last season — under control.

“We were riding high — everything was feeling good,” receiver Davante Adams said, “and then to come out on the wrong side of this, obviously it’s not the way we drew it up.”

Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford throws against the Eagles in the second half Sunday.

(Matt Slocum / Associated Press)

No one could have predicted the Rams would have two kicks blocked in the final minutes.

“It’s the NFL,” safety Kam Curl said, “It’s crazy.”

McVay appeared to keep calm, but like Rams fans watching their team barrel toward another loss to the Eagles, he had to be going a little nuts as his offense stalled while Hurts was passing for three touchdowns and running for another.

The Rams built a 19-7 halftime lead on Stafford’s long touchdown pass to Adams and four field goals by Karty.

They seized momentum on the first series of the second half when edge rusher Jared Verse sacked Hurts and forced a fumble that was recovered by linebacker Nate Landman.

The turnover set up Stafford’s scoring pass to Williams.

“Feeling like we had our foot on the gas,” receiver Puka Nacua said.

The Rams were in complete control.

Until they weren’t.

Hurts tossed two touchdown passes that trimmed the Rams’ lead to five points.

The Rams got the ball early in the fourth quarter, and with just less than nine minutes left, Karty came on for a 36-yard field-goal attempt. But Eagles lineman Jalen Carter blocked the kick.

Hurts’ short touchdown pass to DeVonta Smith put the Eagles ahead, 27-26.

And then Stafford, the master of last-minute drives, drove the Rams to the Eagles’ 26.

It was eerily familiar to last January, when Stafford had the Rams driving toward a potential game-winning touchdown.

This time, all they needed was a field goal.

“I was thankful for another opportunity to kind of help my team make things right and come off the field with a victory,” Karty said.

But Jordan Davis leaped high to block the kick, and then scooped the ball and ran to the end zone as delirious Eagles fans roared.

“Had our chances really in all phases probably to win that one and didn’t get it done,” said Stafford, who passed for two touchdowns, with an interception. “It’s frustrating.”

McVay and his players repeatedly cautioned that it was only Week 3.

And they are correct.

Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver A.J. Brown catches a pass in front of Rams cornerback Cobie Durant during the second half Sunday.

(Chris Szagola / Associated Press)

No need to panic or overthink the defeat. Not with the surprisingly unbeaten Indianapolis Colts coming to SoFi Stadium next Sunday.

But at some point — likely the NFC playoffs — the Rams must figure out how to beat the Eagles.

“I hate the Eagles,” Williams said, “but they taught us something … or are putting us through something that we needed to get put through.

“I’m glad that it’s happening this early in the season because it’s only going to make us [better] for later.”

Time will tell.

Match of the Day’s Theo Walcott looks at Gabriel Martinelli’s attitude coming off the bench to score a late equaliser for Arsenal in their 1-1 draw against Man City in the Premier League.

WATCH MORE: Martinelli snatches late draw for Arsenal against Man City

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The Hafren Forest in Mid Wales has been named as the UK’s most popular autumn walk. t’s a stunning forest with a rich history and a variety of walking trails

As you step onto the woodland path, the first thing you’ll notice is the fresh air tinged with the earthy aroma of damp pine and moss, a sensory nod to nature in its wildest form.

Welcome to the lesser-known Hafren Forest in Mid Wales, home to tumbling waters, marked trails and the birthplace of a formidable river. The forest’s name, Hafren, derives from the Welsh term for the River Severn (Afon Hafren), which embarks on its impressive journey to the sea from this very spot.

This meticulously managed woodland boasts a rich history and numerous trails to discover. According to TikTok data, it has just been crowned the most popular autumn walk in the UK, showcasing its beauty best during the autumn and winter months. Other walking spots across the Peak District, Scotland, and the Lake District have also secured spots in the top 10.

READ MORE: Brits ditch Spain for other holiday destinations after locals dub tourists ‘cancerous’READ MORE: Top town centres for shopping revealed – see how your high street ranked

To encourage folks to soak up the great outdoors and enjoy quality time together without breaking the bank, caravan holiday providers Parkdean Resorts have revealed the UK’s favourite autumn walks and are offering a 20% discount on four-night staycations this autumn.

Overseen by Natural Resources Wales, the forest strikes a balance between commercial forestry, conservation, and public enjoyment, making it an essential habitat for wildlife and a sanctuary for outdoor enthusiasts and walkers, reports Wales Online.

Originally established as a timber production forest, Hafren Forest has evolved into a beloved and accessible spot for walkers. Its blend of natural splendour, historical features, and well-kept trails draw visitors throughout the year.

The trails are clearly marked and welcoming, meandering through clusters of pines and firs, their natural symmetry creating overhead archways that frame the path ahead.

The winding river is the star attraction here. The Afon Hafren, more commonly known as the River Severn, commences its journey on the slopes of Pumlumon, with its concealed source lying just beyond the forest’s edge.

Initially, it’s merely a tranquil stream threading its way through the trees with quiet resolve. However, it soon gains momentum, cascading over rocky ledges and morphing into thunderous waterfalls that carve their way through the landscape with unyielding vigour.

“Autumn is my favourite time to visit this serene forest, when the foliage changes colour and the air becomes crisper,” says writer Portia Jones.

There’s an abundance of trails to amble along here, all clearly marked from beginning to end. Starting at the Rhyd-y-benwch car park, the paths guide you through towering trees, past gushing waterfalls, and even to the hidden source of the River Severn.

She adds: “My favourite trail is the 13 km-long Source of the Severn Trail, which leads to the source of the River Severn through a varied landscape.”

It’s quite astounding to consider that the mighty River Severn, stretching over 220 miles, originates here in Hafren Forest. The river’s modest beginnings on the slopes of Pumlumon rapidly gather pace as the water etches its path through the forest, creating a series of vibrant cascades and waterfalls.

As you traverse the trails, the river’s sound evolves, becoming more powerful and persistent. Each stride brings you nearer to the water’s rhythm, escalating like an overture before unveiling its concealed source beyond the forest’s boundary.

READ MORE: Jet2 adds new Christmas market destination – full list

Reaching the source is no ordinary stroll. A steep ascent leads you onto the moorland, where a simple, carved wooden post signifies the start of the UK’s longest river.

Hafren Forest also serves as the launch point for two epic long-distance walks. The Wye Valley Walk traces the River Wye for 136 miles, whilst the Severn Way follows the Severn’s route to Bristol. For a shorter and more manageable walk, the 2.3 km Severn-Break-its-Neck Trail provides a picturesque romp through woodland.

This trail lives up to its dramatic name. Starting at the car park, you’ll follow a gently meandering path along the river until it expands into a meadow, where a boardwalk brings you closer to the sound of rushing water.

After a brief climb, the Severn-Break-Its-Neck waterfall comes into sight. Cycling enthusiasts can take advantage of the Sustrans National Cycle Network, a scenic route that meanders through the forest and beyond, offering a quicker way to soak up the region’s stunning landscapes.

Consider booking a stay at Cedar Cottage in Llanidloes for a snug autumn getaway. This charming semi-detached barn conversion, once an old grinding mill, is perfectly suited for a small family or a group of mates.

The cottage boasts a host of amenities including double and twin rooms, a fully equipped kitchen, a cosy sitting room with an electric stove, and a shared garden at the back complete with patio furniture. You can secure your booking here.

READ MORE: The buzzing UK market town with independent shops and quaint cobbled streets

The UK’s top 10 autumn walks

1. Hafren Forest, Powys, Mid Wales

2. Aberglaslyn Pass, North Wales

3. Flash and Three Shires Head, Peak District, Staffordshire

4. Butterley Reservoir, Peak District, West Yorkshire

5. Hermitage Bridge, Perthshire, Scotland

6. Conic Hill, Stirling, Scotland

7. Blea Tarn, Lake District, Cumbria

8. Lochgoilhead, Argyll and Bute, West Scotland

9. Glencoe Lochan, Glencoe, Scottish Highlands

10. Bottoms Reservoir, Peak District, Derbyshire

Impressive imagery showing military aircraft punching out flares is, by now, fairly familiar, but no less worth looking at. Much rarer, however, is to see a civilian airliner design doing the same thing. In this case, the Boeing 737 jetliner is in Polish Air Force service, but the captures are certainly highly unusual and bring attention to a lesser-known aspect of this aircraft, and other governmental and privately owned jets that are similarly outfitted with self-protection systems.

The photos in this story were shared with TWZ by Bartek Bera, whose work we have profiled before. Bartek photographed the 737 on August 28, when it was on its way to the rehearsal for the Radom Air Show, in east-central Poland. The aircraft is a 737-800 Boeing Business Jet 2 (BBJ2), with the tactical number 0112 and the name Ignacy Jan Paderewski, which was delivered to the Polish Air Force in 2021.

After joining a formation with the photo ship, the 737 began pumping out infrared decoys, part of its relatively extensive self-protection suite. It’s worth noting that flares are by no means an uncommon feature of Polish military air displays. In the past, we have looked at the use of photo-flash flares by the now-retired Polish Air Force Su-22 Fitter swing-wing ground-attack aircraft, and C-130 transports have also previously lit up Radom with pyrotechnic displays.

A Polish Air Force Su-22 Fitter drops photo-flash flares during the Radom Airshow in 2023:

While we asked the Polish Air Force for more details about the decoys, they were not willing to provide any information. However, based on open sources, the Polish Air Force 737s were outfitted with countermeasures dispensers prior to delivery.

As we’ve explored in the past, infrared countermeasures encompass a range of different flares with varying degrees of capability and complexity that cover different spectral regimes. At their most simple, these kinds of flares provide a heat source, which can be enough to defeat the infrared seeker head of a simpler missile. To defeat a more advanced threat, a countermeasure needs to be more closely paired to the host aircraft’s signature.

The self-protection equipment of at least one of the Polish Air Force 737s also includes a directed infrared countermeasures (DIRCM) system, in a canoe-shaped DIRCM fairing below the rear fuselage, while other examples of the aircraft display the mounting area for the same canoe. Reportedly, the DIRCM is the Israeli-made Elbit Systems J-MUSIC. This provides an additional degree of protection, using a turreted laser to blind and confuse the seeker on infrared-homing missiles.

Self-protection is enabled by the 737’s missile approach warning system (MAWS), sensors for which can be seen located around the fuselage in the photos here. The system senses the signature of the incoming missile and can facilitate automatic, semi-automatic, or a manual responsive course of action on how to defend against it, be it by flares or the DIRCM laser system, if equipped.

Overall, Polish Air Force 737s are notably well-equipped. These aircraft are also provided with a secure datalink, SATCOM, and UHF/VHF/HF radios for communications. Military-standard avionics include a TACAN navigation system, Mod 5 identification friend or foe (IFF), and GPS receivers with selective availability anti-spoofing modules (SAASM). The flight deck is fitted with head-up displays (HUD) and an enhanced flight vision system (EFVS), which provides the pilots with an improved view outside the cockpit. The 737s are equipped with specialized medical equipment for medical evacuation missions.

As for the Polish Air Force’s 737s, three of which are operated, their story is part of the service’s efforts to replace its fleet of Soviet-era aircraft with new Western equipment.

Previously, the Polish Air Force VIP fleet included a pair of Tupolev Tu-154M Careless trijets for transporting heads of state, as well as more than a dozen Yakovlev Yak-40 Codling regional jets for short-haul VIP work.

The retirement of both those Soviet-made types was expedited following the loss of a Tu-154M during a landing accident in 2010. This disaster, the causes of which remain controversial, resulted in the deaths of all 96 persons on board, including Polish President Lech Kaczynski. The remaining Tu-154M was retired in 2011, and the last Yak-40 was withdrawn in 2012.

The long-term successors for these aircraft are the Gulfstream G550 and the 737. Both types serve with the 1st Air Base Air Transport Squadron at in Warsaw. Ordered in 2017, the three Boeings comprise a single 737-800 built but never delivered to a Chinese regional airline, and a pair of new 737-800 BBJ2s, including the example seen here. The 737s are mainly used for transporting heads of state and high-ranking officials, hence their robust self-protection capabilities and overall high standard of equipment.

For their VIP role, the Polish Air Force 737s were outfitted with a special cabin, provided by Sabena Technics in Toulouse, France. This includes a cabin with seats for four passengers, two seats in a separate VIP compartment, 12 seats in business class, and 48 seats in economy class. There is also a rest compartment for the flight crew. 

Bartek’s dramatic imagery underscores the fact that VIP transports are also sprouting increasingly robust self-protection systems, including the kinds of flare dispensers that otherwise remain much better associated with frontline combat aircraft and tactical transport types.

You can check out more of Bartek’s photography here.

Contact the author: [email protected]

A recent study analysing passenger review data has named the best train journey in all of Europe, offering travellers unparalleled views of the Scottish Highlands

A scenic train trip across Scotland has been named the best in Europe according to a new study. The journey offers impeccable views of some of the country’s most iconic vistas and natural landmarks.

Conducted by FruityKing, a recent study analysed the rating data of thousands of passenger reviews to determine which European train lines offer the most scenic routes for travellers. The analysis revealed that the Kyle Line had the highest average passenger rating, scoring 4.72 out of a possible 5.

The Kyle Line runs from Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh. Inverness makes for the starting point of multiple great day trips, including a full-day trip through the Isle of Skye, which you can find via TripAdvisor.

The Kyle Line costs £32 to ride and accompanying children can travel for a mere £1 return each, with up to four children allowed per adult. The line crosses some of the most awe-inspiring and remote landscapes in the Scottish Highlands.

Passengers can comfortably enjoy panoramic views of misty mountains including Ben Wyvis in Easter Ross, the Torridon Peaks in the Northwestern Highlands, and the famous Loch Luichart Estate.

Travellers interested in exploring more under-the-radar destinations along the line can also consider a stop in Duirinish. Trainline has highlighted the town as one of the most underrated, isolated destinations on the UK rail network.

A spokesperson for the ticketing app told the Mirror: “The penultimate stop on the Kyle line, the UK’s most remote yet underrated railway, and with only 17 passengers booked via Trainline in the last year, Duirinish is frequently overlooked.

“This quaint township provides insight into crofting, a practice unique to the Highlands, with the opportunity to spot Highland cows thanks to a nearby dedicated tour.” While you’re there, you can get off at the market town of Dingwall for the Far North Line for more distinctive mountain range views and the Torridon Peaks.

The journey from Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh takes roughly 2 hours and 40 minutes, so you can return back to Inverness on the same day.

The passenger review study listed the Isle of Man Steam Railway as the second best train journey in Europe, earning an impressive average rating score of 4.71 out of 5 based on 1,327 reviews.

Ffestiniog and Welsh Highland Railways and West Somerset Railway were also highlighted as top train lines in the study.

As well, Switzerland’s Bernina Express made the list with an average passenger rating of 4.67. The renowned route traverses the Swiss Alps through staggering and stunning mountain passes.

SINGER Dua Lipa looks all strung out in a black dress — but manages to hold it all together.

The 30-year-old showed off her fringe benefits in the stunning gown, which she wore to the Harper’s Bazaar Icons dinner in New York City.

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The Levitating singer is in the United States for her Radical Optimism world tour but took a break to party with stars including Benny Blanco and Sadie Sink.

Earlier, she posted pictures on Instagram of herself doing yoga in her hotel room.

We recently revealed how Dua and her fiance Callum Turner are on the look out for a place in the sun – after spending last month soaking up the rays on Ibiza.

The couple, who got engaged last Christmas, have called on a property expert to tap up a series of very posh holiday homes in Andalusia in southern Spain.

A source said: “Dua and Callum are looking for a sunny bolthole to enjoy with their families.

“Their preference has been pretty clear: nice weather and properties that have space.

“They have a man scouting for homes in Portugal and Andalusia, which have amazing weather all-year round.

“The house has to be able to comfortably fit Dua and Callum, as well as their family and friends.

“They also want peace and tranquility, that has been made very clear.

“Dua and Callum have a healthy budget too. They’ve been sent details on properties priced between £3million and £9million and are weighing them up.

La Gomera is one of the smallest island in the Canaries and offers a cheaper and more relaxing option, the weather reaching 26C in October is perfect for an autumn getaway

The Canary Islands are a top pick for Brits seeking sun-soaked holidays abroad.

In 2023, the Canaries welcomed a record-breaking 16 million visitors, with 14.1 million from overseas, including a whopping 5.7 million Brits, marking a 13 percent surge from the previous year.

While Tenerife and Lanzarote are popular choices, La Gomera, the third smallest island in the archipelago, is being touted as an excellent alternative. Offering a more affordable and tranquil experience, La Gomera boasts fantastic weather, reaching highs of 26C in October.

READ MORE: Pretty UK village with ‘miles of golden sand’ is a must-visit this autumnREAD MORE: UK households urged to make one bedroom change in autumn to slash heating bills

Famed for its black sandy beaches and balmy climate, it’s a paradise waiting to be discovered, reports the Express. San Sebastian, one of Spain’s most underappreciated towns, calls La Gomera home.

Travel website Cosa Crusies describes San Sebastian de la Gomera as a place where “time seems to have stopped a hundred years ago”. Perched on volcanic rock, the town has ties to the renowned explorer Christopher Columbus and features several monuments dedicated to him.

Among these is Columbus’ House, known for its “amorous” rendezvous. Adding to the town’s allure is the quaint stone watchtower, Torre del Conde.

The Church of the Assumption, with its stone archways, bell tower and artwork, is another must-visit spot. In a blog post titled “Go here, not there”, traveller Loria Zaino declared that La Gomera outshines Tenerife.

Loria expressed: “Paradise offering incredible hikes and gorgeous scenery. The island is ideal for anyone looking to trade the busy city for lush greenery.” La Gomera could be perfect for the next trip to escape the cold, rainy autumn season here in the UK.

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