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Fancy fleeing Budget chaos? Affordable holidays on offer right NOW from £22pppn where you can buy cheap booze & fags

BRITS will soon feel the squeeze after the announcement of the Budget.

Yesterday Rachel Reeves announced plans for multiple price hikes in the UK from a rise in tax on alcohol and cigarettes to the rising cost of Air Passenger Duty.

Sunny Beach in Bulgaria is a popular choice for sun, sea and cheap drinksCredit: Alamy Stock Photo
You can still get cheap cigarettes abroad with the cheapest pack of 20 being under £4Credit: Andrea Lardani

The Chancellor, on November 26, unveiled a raft of tax rises including that on booze.

It will see some fan-favourite tipples face a rise in price at the supermarket from a four pack of lager to gin and whiskey – and there are fears this will impact pubs too.

The cost of cigarettes has risen from the average price (for a 20 pack) around £16.78 up to £17.74.

And in 2027, the government will increase all rates of Air Passenger Duty (APD) in line with the rate of inflation – which will make going abroad more expensive.

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So if you quite rightly are looking for an affordable break where alcohol and a box of cigarettes is dirt cheap – not to mention getting out of the country, then here are some options for you.

Bulgaria

Under four hours from the UK is Bulgaria known for its sunny beach resorts with cheap booze and all-inclusive hotels

One unbeatable place for that is Sunny Beach on the Black Sea coast which is well-known for being cheap and cheerful.

On the Beach has offers for a 7-night stay from June 2, 2026, at Sunny Day Club for just £265pp including flights from Manchester on a bed and breakfast basis.

Eating out won’t break the bank if you head away from the main streets – a mid-range meal for two can cost as little as £10 each.

And if you’re a smoker, then Bulgaria is a great place to buy cigarettes – and again, the cheapest.

Bansko is where you’ll find the cheapest pint in Europe – it’s just 90pCredit: Alamy

The retail price for a pack of 20 cigarettes in Bulgaria according to Statista is €3.69 (£3.23).

If you’d prefer a break right now, then check out Bansko which is two hours from the capital of Sofia and is one of the cheapest places in Europe for a pint.

Experts at hoppa recently analysed dozens of European locations to find the most budget-friendly depending on factors like cost of a hotel and the cost of beer.

Here you can pick up a pint for as little as 90p – and a stay in a 3-star hotel which averages out at £57.

If you’re looking for a last-minute winter ski holiday, it’s also one of the most affordable options.

Bansko came third cheapest in the Post Office Travel Money Ski Report 2025.

Sun Travel found a five-night stay for two people from £209pp, which includes flights from London Stansted with LoveHolidays.

Starting on December 7, 2025, you can stay in the three-star Apart Hotel Dream at the foot of the Pirin Mountain, and it’s just 5 minutes from the cable lift.

There’s an indoor pool as well as a restaurant, coffee shop and a cosy lobby bar set by a log fire.

Poznan has cheap options for cigarettes and pints will be as little as £2.87

Poland

Second on the list for the cheapest place to buy cigarettes is Poland where a pack of 20 costs on average €4.88 (£4.28).

If you’re looking to get away just for the weekend, then head to Poznan in Poland.

The fifth largest city in Poland, is great for autumn and winter weekend breaks especially if you are on a budget

Beer is cheap, costing around £2.87 a pint for a local brew while coffee is less than £2.80.

Of course you can always make a week out of it – LoveHolidays has an offer for a seven-night stay at Campanile from December 5, 2025, from £199pp including flights from Bristol.

Over the week, that works out at just £28.43 per person per day.

Some holidays in Riga can be as cheap as £22.71pppn – including flightsCredit: Getty

Latvia

While it might not be a place that comes to your mind when scrolling through holidays, Latvia has some crackingly cheap deals.

If you fancy a break in the New Year, then you can go with LoveHolidays to Riga from London Stansted from £22.71pppn – including flights.

Stay in The Dodo in Riga for seven nights from December 6; it’s a budget-friendly hotel but still has free Wi-Fi, comfy beds, private bathrooms, TV, bars, and breakfast options.

Not to mention when you get there it won’t cost you much either – Riga was named Europe’s best value city for a short break by  Post Office Travel Money City Costs Barometer.

On average, a cup of coffee in Riga costs £2.80 and beer costs £3.50, although you can buy beer for as little as €1 (88p) from supermarkets.

Return airport or bus transfers were relatively cheap, costing £3.50 on average.

Marmaris in Turkey was declared the cheapest coastal resort for 2025Credit: Getty

Turkey

For the sun-seekers amongst you then of course, Turkey is an easy win.

From Antalya to Istanbul, there are plenty of options – Marmaris is ranked as the cheapest coastal resort, offering low prices for a basket of tourist goods

And if you want to plan a getaway this December, you can still enjoy highs of 17C.

With LastMinute.com, you can enjoy five-night stay at the Hotel Unver in Marmaris from £127pp including flights from London Stansted.

The hotel has a swimming pool, free Wi-Fi and is just a few streets away from the beach.

Mains at a restaurant in Marmaris cost around 400 Turkish Lira (TL) in
£7.12 – and a cup of Turkish coffee in Marmaris can cost anywhere from  Turkish Lira (12p).

And even if you fancy a hot summer in Turkey – you can still get great deals now like at the Belpoint Beach Hotel in Antalya.

With LoveHolidays there’s a deal for a 7-night all-inclusive break from £239pp including flights from London Stansted on June 11, 2026.

The three-star hotel has an outdoor swimming pool with an aquapark, restaurants and bars.

The Costa Del Sol is regarded as one of the cheapest places for a holiday in SpainCredit: Getty

Spain

You can always trust Spain to deliver and to make matters even better you can be there in two hours.

The average price of a pack of 20 cigarettes is €5.99 (£5.24), and as for alcohol a pint of domestic beer can be as little as €3 (£2.63).

Costa del Sol, region in the south of Spain, is regarded as one of the cheapest places for a holiday.

Another popular destination is the city of Malaga – with LoveHolidays you can book a stay at Easyhotel Malaga City Centre from £199pp.

If you want a break in January, it’s a great choice for sightseeing, and enjoying the cheap meals and drinks Spain has to offer.

You can fly there from London Luton on January 7, 2026 and stay for seven nights.

Or if you fancy somewhere coastal and some sun, you can stay at the cosy Marissal by Dorobe Hotels with LoveHolidays – a two-star boutique hotel with just 23 rooms – and it’s two minutes from the beach.

A seven-night stay from June 12, 2026 will set you back just £259pp including direct flights to Malaga from London Gatwick.

For more budget spots, check out these winter sun destinations from your nearest airport – with 7-night holidays to Turkey, Tunisia and Spain.

And hear from one man who travels to Spain every month – 12 stunning and cheap destinations Spaniards love that Brits have never heard of.

Here’s the destination where you don’t have to pay tax at duty free…

Gibraltar, the Mediterranean destination south of Spain, is the perfect place for Brits to stock up on alcohol, bag a cheap perfume and a designer handbag.

The duty free is especially low because of Gibraltar’s tax policies, specifically the absence of VAT and excise taxes.

Sun writer Adele Cooke is half Gibraltarian and reveals she often sees hordes of tourists descend on the airport to get their goods.

She told us: “Often you’ll see people on cruise ships all get off to stock up on the goods. My dad likes to stock up his alcohol trolley while we’re there too.”

When it comes to alcohol, Gibraltar has some great offers at duty-free – for example, you can pick up a litre of The Famous Grouse whisky for as little as £8.15.

A litre of Bacardi starts at £10.75 (£20 in the UK) and Captain Morgan rum at £11 (also £20 in the UK).

One litre of Jägermeister costs just £12.50 (£25 in the UK), the duty-free shop even sells one litre bottles of Glen’s Vodka for £3.40 (£17 in the UK).

With the price of alcohol set to rise – jet off to the likes of Spain for cheap pintsCredit: Sebastian Ramirez Morales

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The 16 new easyJet routes launching next year from Italian port towns to jet-lag free islands 

IF you’re searching for quick, easy and affordable flights for your holiday next year – then check out easyJet’s new routes.

The budget airline has added a whopping 16 new flights to its roster including beautiful islands as well as places within the British Isles – including one that’s been compared to the Caribbean.

easyJet is offering new flights from the UK with lots taking off in March next yearCredit: Alamy
Cape Verde is known for its beautiful beaches and they’re just 5 hours from the UKCredit: Alamy

Cape Verde

Cape Verde is made up of 10 islands and the best news for Brits is that these sunny spots are just five hours from the UK.

The islands are known for having great winter high temperatures with beautiful beaches and plenty to do – plus there’s only a one hour time difference.

easyJet launched their first-ever flights from the UK to Sal back in April, with routes from London Gatwick and Manchester.

Now, the budget airline has since confirmed that another flight route will be launching to Sal, from Bristol Airport.

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Flights will take off from 1 May 2026 and operate on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.

Bari, Italy

Another new route from easyJet will offer new routes from Bristol to Bari.

The port city on the Adriatic Sea coast of southern Italy – the Pugliese capital has even been nicknamed the ‘Jewel of the Adriatic‘.

You can delve into the city’s history in Bari Vecchia which is the historical centre where you’ll find a maze of narrow alleyways, open piazzas, and cobbled side streets.

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For sightseeing, you’ll find 40 churches in Bari – but one of the most popular is Basilica di San Nicola. It was originally constructed to hold the remains of Father Christmas, which were stolen from Turkey in the 11th century.

Flights start from April 18, 2026 twice-weekly on Tuesdays and Saturdays.

In Bari you’ll find pretty piazzas and 40 churches within the cityCredit: Alamy

Seville

If you fancy a trip to Spain’s fourth-largest city of Seville – easyJet has added more flights to its roster.

Anyone living in and around Bristol can rejoice as the new route will launch from the airport next spring.

Top sites include the Royal Alcázar of Seville, Seville Cathedral and Plaza de España which is a cobbled square with four bridges over its small river.

easyJet is launching a new route from Bristol to Seville from May 2, 2026 – it will operate twice-weekly on Tuesdays and Saturdays.

Inverness

It might be less exotic but easyJet is also starting a new route between Birmingham and the Highlands’ capital city of Inverness.

It’s surrounded by water as it’s the city where the River Ness meets the Moray Firth – and there are plenty of great sites like the cathedral and Old High Church.

There’s also the indoor Victorian Market where you can pick up food, clothes and crafts.

The new service starts on March 30, 2026, operating twice weekly on Mondays and Fridays.

New flights will go between Birmingham and Nice from May 2026Credit: Alamy

Nice

If the delightful Mediterranean coast calls to you then head to the French city of Nice.

Here you can stroll along vibrant the city’s cobbled streets, check out the art-deco architecture and ornate 19th-century properties that rival Paris.

Nice is also a great spot if you want to explore the likes of Monaco, Antibes and Cannes.

The main boulevard of Promenade des Anglais holds a classic French market on a Saturday where you can buy flowers, goats’ cheese, cured meats, cakes and grab a souvenir like lavender soap.

Flights from Birmingham start from May 1, 2026, which operates twice weekly on Mondays and Fridays.

Montpellier

Very near the Mediterranean coast of southern France is the city of Montpellier.

It’s filled with grand buildings that are a mix of medieval and modern architecture – in the summer it can reach highs of 28C.

While Montpellier isn’t directly on the coast, you don’t have to travel far to find pretty beaches like Carnon, La Grande Motte, GrandsTravers, and Palavas-les-Flots.

Not to mention that just outside of Montpellier, Domaine de Massereau was named the most eco-responsible campsite in Europe last year.

It has plenty to entertain the kids like the Aquatic area which heated swimming pool and one that’s for adults-only with whirlpools and water jets.

For little ones, there’s a spray park, waterslides and a paddling pool as well as two on-site kids’ clubs.

The airline is launching new flights to Montpellier from Manchester on 30 March 2026.

Preveza is the capital of the Epirus region in GreeceCredit: Alamy Stock Photo

Preveza

On the west side of Greece is the city of Preveza which is the capital of the Epirus region.

The region itself is known for its incredible mountain landscape, as well as pretty beaches.

It’s home to Vikos Gorge, one of the world’s deepest, and clean rivers where locals and tourists like to go kayaking, rafting, and canoeing.

In Preveza you can explore sites like the Nicopolis Museum and Pantocrator Castle or relax on the long, sandy Monolithi Beach.

If you fancy checking out some other places too then you can head to other destinations like Parga, Lefkada and Sivota easily from Preveza.

Flights to Preveza from Manchester start on June 24, 2026.

Lisbon

The capital of Portugal has always been a solid choice of holiday for Brits.

With a flight time under three hours and plenty to do from riding the iconic trams up the hilly roads, to hiking up to Castelo de São Jorge – Lisbon is a solid choice.

And there are plenty of viewing points to see the incredible views across the city like Miradouro de Santa Luzia.

There are two new routes to Lisbon, the first is from Manchester with flights departing from March 31, 2026.

The other route is from Glasgow which will provide direct links to Lisbon from March 29, 2026

Paphos in Cyprus is a great summer spot with blue watersCredit: Mlenny

Paphos

Last year, Paphos in Cyprus was been voted the most liveable small city in the world.

When one writer visited the seaside spot, she made sure to check out the delicious seafood, and headed out to sea on a boat trip to the Blue Lagoon.

She also said that “the Unesco World Heritage site of Kato Pafos really is a must-see. The park includes sites and monuments from the 4th century BC to the Middle Ages”.

Paphos is a great option for summer if what you like is the heat as it has highs of 30C in July and August.

Or even during the cooler months like November where you can still have average highs of 22C.

You’ll be able to fly from Manchester to Paphos from August 2, 2026.

The beaches in Jersey have been compared to those in the CaribbeanCredit: Alamy

Jersey

Another short journey that’s easy to make is to Jersey – the British Isle that gets summer weather before the mainland.

The Channel Island has even compared to the Caribbean and its one of the warmest places in spring.

It even has some of the country’s best beaches – and you can get there in under an hour.

easyJet will start its route from Southend Airport to Jersey from March 30, 2026.

Paris

Another new route is from Stansted to Paris – the capital of France is known for its great food and plenty of iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower.

It’s also home to the theme park, Disneyland Paris, which is set to open its new Frozen land on March 29, 2026.

There will be new rides, frosty mountain peaks and you can see it all from inside a miniature Arendelle.

Find out more from The Sun’s Assistant Travel Editor Sophie Swietochowski who got an exclusive peek at the new land.

Flights from London Stansted to Paris will start on March 5, 2026

Tenerife is a great option for all-round sunshine and buzzing nightlifeCredit: Freeartist

Tenerife

Tenerife is well known for its year-round sunshine, beautiful beaches, amazing stargazing opportunities, and lively nightlife.

For years its been a popular place for Brits to visit, particularly those looking for some winter sun.

It’s good news for those who are fans of the island as Ryanair recently announced it would be cutting flights due to rising tax.

Flights from Newcastle to Tenerife will start on August 1, 2026.

Pisa

The city of Pisa in the Tuscan region of Italy is of course best known for its Leaning Tower which is a must-see when visiting.

But there are lots of other positives too like exploring the beautiful cobbled streets and tasting fantastic food from pizza to cecina (a savory chickpea flour pancake) and Torta co’ Bischeri (a chocolate-filled pastry).

easyJet flights from Glasgow to Pisa start from August 1, 2026.

Holidays are back on the rise to Egypt and easyJet is offering new flights from GlasgowCredit: Alamy Stock Photo

Sharm El Sheikh

Trips to Egypt are back on the rise with the likes of TUI starting trips and holidays there – and now easyJet is offering flights too.

The holiday destination that was huge with Brits in the noughties has plenty of pretty beach resorts, high temperatures and year-round sunshine.

During the summer months, temperatures in Sharm el Sheikh sit between 35C – 38C.

Sharm el Sheikh is also a popular winter sun destination because its average temperature is 24C which is around 17C warmer than the UK for that time of year.

Routes between Glasgow to Sharm El Sheikh will start from August 1, 2026.

Malta

Malta, which is smaller than the Isle of Wight, can slip under the radar when it comes to holidays.

But with new flights from easyJet, it’s bound to get more popular.

When one Sun writer visited the country, she discovered plenty of things that Brits will love from its red telephone boxes to restaurants offering English breakfasts.

Locals drive on the left and speak English (along with Maltese).

New flights from Glasgow to Malta will start from August 4, 2026.

For more holiday destinations – here are five alternative European holiday destinations you can still fly to after Ryanair axed hundreds of flights.

Plus, one of the best budget getaways in Europe for winter has been revealed and pints are 90p.

easyJet is starting 16 new routes from March 2026Credit: Alamy Stock Photo

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Eurocamp is opening two huge new sites in Spain’s best beach spots next summer

The family-friendly holiday park operator will be offering accommodation at two new Spanish parks, which both feature direct beach access, pools, and plenty to keep the kids entertained

If you’re already dreaming of soaking up the sunshine in 2026 on a summer holiday, Eurocamp is adding two new parks in a sunny Spanish hotspot that are perfect for families.

Alannia Els Prats and Alannia Costa Dorada are both set on long stretches of sandy beach on the sunny Costa Dorada region of Spain, which roughly translates to ‘Golden Coast’. About 90 minutes south of Barcelona, these parks both have direct beach access and a whole host of activities to enjoy, so you can choose whether you want to fit in lots of fun adventures or simply relax on the beach.

Both parks are located conveniently close to Reus Airport, which is served by budget airlines including easyJet, Jet2, and Ryanair, with plenty of flights from across the UK in the summer months, so you can often pick up a cheap flight.

Alannia Els Prats offers a pool complex with a lagoon-style pool, waterslides and a splash zone for little ones. There’s also a free kids club for children aged 4-12, with plenty of activities to keep them entertained. Families can enjoy a game of padel, tennis, or mini-golf, while adults can relax in the spa with a jacuzzi, sauna, and steam room.

You’re also just a 15-minute drive from PortAventura World, Spain’s largest theme park, which includes Ferrariland, Caribe Aquatic Park and much more. Or from nearby Tarragona, you can take a train to Barcelona for a day trip, which takes about an hour and 15 minutes.

Prices for a week’s stay can be from £531 for a party of up to four guests in May half term, or from £1405.95 for the summer holidays.

Meanwhile Alannia Costa Dorada has three pools, including a jacuzzi and a splash zone for little kids. Its spa area includes a fitness centre and jacuzzi, and there’s a soft play area, badminton, mini golf and more. The park’s kids club is free for 5-12 year olds, and is a great way to keep them entertained while you relax.

Prices for a week’s stay start from £416.36 per party of up to six guests in May half term, or from £1261.12 for the summer holidays.

As with most Eurocamp resorts, you’ll find restaurants and bars at both camps, with family-friendly dining options. Alannia Els Prats has a snack bar with sea views, so you can enjoy a beer as you watch the sun go down.

But the fun doesn’t stop at night, both parks also offer evening entertainment suitable for all ages. This can include live music, themed shows, and of course, the ever-popular minidiscos where kids can make new friends.

Accommodation is in two or three bedroom holiday homes, meaning you aren’t stuck sharing a hotel room with the kids. Depending on the accommodation you choose, there are often facilities such as air conditioning, private decking areas, and BBQs, so you can make it a home away from home. Many camps also offer free hire on baby essentials such as cots, high chairs, and bed rails, making it easier to pack light.

You can find out more on eurocamp.co.uk.

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5 of the best Spanish foodie destinations with direct UK flights and cheap holiday packages

SPAIN’S Costas have long been British holidaymakers’ top choice for a summer getaway.

But that’s by no means all this captivating country has to boast about.

A chef goes large and makes a huge paellaCredit: Getty

Its rich culinary scene comes alive in winter, with the northern regions revelling in truffle season while the Asturias readies its cider houses for an influx of visitors.

Anna Viladot, of Vueling, says: “Social media has influenced how people choose where to travel. For many, the food comes first and the destination follows.”

Whether it’s hearty stews in Santiago de Compostela or seafood in Seville that takes your fancy, Sophie Swietochowski has a winter escape guaranteed to tickle your tastebuds.

STEWS IN SEVILLE

TRADITIONALLY a peasant dish, Andalusian stews are some of the heartiest out there, served with hunks of meat and beans that have spent hours bubbling away in spices. Seville is a great city to sample it in and the traditional, family-run restaurants do it best.

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Book a well-located base, like the 4* Porcel Torneo – which puts you within easy reach of all the best spots – and go for a basic, room-only package so you can sample grub from all the best places.

A week room-only at the 4* Porcel Torneo is from £379pp, flying from Gatwick January 17Credit: Unknown

The modern, practical hotel is just a short walk from the Guadalquivir river and a 15-minute drive from the Royal Alcazar, a former royal palace that’s a must-see.

For a true flavour of the city, book on to a 2.5-hour Flavours of Andalusia food tour, which costs just £31 with tastings (for details see getyourguide.co.uk)

GO: A week room-only at the 4H Porcel Torneo is from £379pp, flying from Gatwick January 17.

See easyjet.com/en/holidays.

Flights-only, Gatwick to Seville, are from €38.99 one way at vueling.com.

BODEGAS IN BARCELONA

IN summer, Barcelona has a glorious sandy beach flanked by laid-back bars, but in winter when the crowds disperse, you can enjoy the city’s magic in relative solitude, sipping wine in charming bodegas.

Bodega J Cala, in the Sant Marti district to the east of the centre, is one of the best.

The Moxy is a rather swish hotel with a rooftop pool, hip atmosphere and neon signs decorating the rooms and the lobbyCredit: marriott.com

The vermouth really packs a punch and you can chase it down with tapas. Make sure to try the anchovies.

Calcots are another famous food in Barcelona and the Catalonia region in general. The long onions, which are sweet in flavour, are generally griddled on an open fire.

Roll yourself back to The Moxy, a rather swish hotel with a rooftop pool, hip atmosphere and neon signs decorating the rooms and the lobby.

GO: Four nights’ room-only at Moxy Barcelona, right, is from £328pp, flying from Birmingham on February 22.

See jet2citybreaks.com.

Flights-only, Gatwick to Barcelona, from €35.22 one way at vueling.com.

APPLES IN ASTURIAS

FANCY a cider? The mountainous region of Asturias will have you guzzling it back like juice.

The apples are harvested in autumn and the cider houses open for winter, serving small glasses that are meant to be knocked back in one hit.

The Silken Monumental Naranco is an excellent place to base yourselfCredit: hoteles-silken.com

Holidaymakers can follow the official cider trail, which visits some famous houses to explain how the apple-flavoured booze is produced to create one of three kinds: Natural, newly-pressed or sparkling.

Oviedo, a city that sits between the Cantabrian Mountains and the Bay of Biscay, is one of the more popular areas to stay in thanks to its many hotels.

The Silken Monumental Naranco is an excellent place to base yourself, and has a restaurant serving hearty local dishes (perfect for after a day of cider-drinking).

GO: Seven nights’ room-only is from £265pp including flights from Stansted on January 26.

Book at onthebeach.co.uk. Flights-only, Gatwick to Asturias, from €30.99 one way at vueling.com.

MACKEREL & MORE IN MALAGA

IF you like a side of architecture and culture with your dinner, look no further than Malaga.

The southern coastal resort is loved for its vibrant beaches where travellers can soak up 30C sunshine during the ­summer.

Casual del Mar Málaga is modest, but cosy and well-located and just a short walk from the portCredit: casualhoteles.com

The winters are just as decent, rarely ­dropping below 17C during the day.

Mackerel, especially horse mackerel (jurel), is a popular and affordable fish here, prepared in various ways such as fried or grilled.

Grilled ­sardines are popular, too, traditionally skewered into a sardine kebab, scattered with salt and then scorched on wooden embers that gives them a deep smokey ­flavour.

El Espigón de Pepe, set back from the beach front, is an excellent place to try them.

Stay at the modest, but cosy and well-located, Casual del Mar Málaga, right, a 3H hotel a short walk from the port.

GO: Seven nights’ room only costs from £349pp including flights from Luton on February 4.

See loveholidays.com.

Flights-only, Gatwick to Malaga, from €30.23 one way at vueling.com.

ARROZ IN ALICANTE

THE southern region of Alicante has so much more to it than action-packed beaches.

If you’re a fan of classic Spanish rice dishes (arroz) then the ones here, piled high with seafood and charred at the edges, won’t disappoint.

The modern Hotel Bonalba Alicante is a sprawling resort geared up for laid-back wintersCredit: Sercotel

Book a stay in the modern Hotel Bonalba Alicante, a sprawling resort geared up for laid-back winters thanks to the wellness centre with a whirlpool, Turkish bath and sauna.

It’s home to one of the best golf courses in the region, where holes boast epic views.

The resort has some excellent restaurants, whose menus are littered with classic local dishes.

But if you fancy venturing out for the evening, Taberna del Mar, 15 minutes away by cab, dishes up some of the best home-cooked rice dishes in the area.

GO: Seven nights’ room-only at the 4H Hotel Bonalba Alicante, right, is from £259pp including flights from Manchester on January 30.

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Flights-only, Gatwick to Alicante, from €30.99 one way at vueling.com.

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The UK coastline home to a beach with 38 Blue Flag awards… and celebrity homes worth £15million

IF you fancy some celeb spotting in the UK, there is one peninsula you need to head to.

Sandbanks in Dorset is known for being home to lots of celebrities and having very impressive beachside homes especially along Panorama Road.

The peninsula has celebrity homes and a Blue Flag beachCredit: Alamy
Panorama Road is nicknamed ‘Millionaires Row’Credit: Alamy

The average price of a property on Sandbanks is just under £1million – the most expensive home is around £15 million.

Luckily, you don’t have to live in Sandbanks to visit as the nearest neighbourhood is in Poole, Dorset.

Sandbanks Beach is highly regarded having been dubbed by some as “Britain’s Best Beach” and “The jewel in the crown of the English Coastline”.

Sandbanks has won the Blue Flag award 38 times, which is every year since the scheme began in 1987.

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Not only that, but according to Tripadvisor, Sandbanks was the ‘world’s most sustainable beach’ for 2024.

The beaches were measured by a sustainable data partner along with Tripadvisor traveller reviews – winners stand out for their commitments to sustainability including transport options, waste disposal and water quality.

The area is home to former England manager Harry Redknapp and his wife, Sandra.

You might have seen their home on TV when the pair made an appearance on Celebrity Gogglebox.

Most read in Best of British

Their son, Jamie Redknapp even named his clothing brand ‘Sandbanks’ after the area.

Other famous residents who have lived, or live, in Sandbanks include Celia Sawyer, J.R.R Tolkien, John Lennon and Liam Gallagher.

Celebrities like Harry Redknapp and his wife Sandra live in SandbanksCredit: Alamy
Harry Redknapp and wife Sandra live in SandbanksCredit: Dave Benett/Getty Images for Sky

Chef Rick Stein is the name behind one of Sandbanks’ most famous restaurants on the Peninsula – Rick Stein, Sandbanks Restaurant and Bar.

The restaurant has celebrated 50 years and here you can enjoy fresh fish dishes from caviar to tuna sashimi, lobster thermidor and crab linguine.

Along the coast from Rick Stein is Lazy Jacks Restaurant and Bar which is known as being a relaxed eatery with waterside views.

Here you can enjoy sea bass, ribeye steaks, fish and chips, pizzas with various toppings, burgers along with Sunday roast choices.

Another popular spot is CAFF, which is a café along the front which serves homemade cakes, huge milkshakes, Full English breakfasts and hot dogs.

For staying in Sandbanks, there are various options from Haven Hotel, to Sandbanks Hotel, to holiday rental apartments.

To get to Sandbanks, you can walk across from the mainland.

The nearest coastal towns are Poole, which is 17 minutes away, or a 15-minute drive from Bournemouth.

From the neighbourhood, visitors can hop aboard the Sandbanks Ferry goes between Sandbanks and Shell Bay beach on Studland.

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For more in Dorset, check out the English village that is Britain’s prettiest with quiet beaches and huge castles.

Plus, how to enjoy a south coast staycation in Poole without having to hit the beach.

Sandbanks in Dorset is known for its beautiful beach and millionaire housesCredit: Thomas Faull



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Turkish resort nicknamed ‘paradise on Earth’ is getting more flights from the UK and it’s still 23C

An image collage containing 2 images, Image 1 shows Antalya beach with mountains, turquoise sea, and sparse green trees, Image 2 shows Corendon Airlines Airbus A320 aircraft approaching for landing in Leipzig, Germany

WE might be heading into winter, but looking ahead to a summer getaway for 2026 doesn’t hurt.

One airline in particular is doing exactly that and has announced that it plans to add more flights from the UK to one very popular Turkish resort.

Antalya is known for its pretty beaches and year-round warm weatherCredit: Alamy
Corendon Airlines is upping its flights to Antalya for next summerCredit: Alamy

Corendon Airlines has announced that it plans to extend lots of its summer services next year.

One of these routes from the UK heads to the Turkish resort of Antalya which is known for its family-friendly hotels and waterparks.

During the next summer season there will be daily flights to Antalya from Stansted Airport.

Matthew Carpenter, Corendon Airlines UK Country Manager said: “For 2026 we’re doubling down on the routes that have performed well for us – for example, we’ve had two flights a week to Antalya from Stansted and this will be increasing to five flights a week in the shoulder seasons and daily flights in peak season.”

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There will also be multiple weekly flights from Gatwick, Birmingham, Glasgow, Manchester and Newcastle.

Antalya sits on the Mediterranean coast of Turkey and has been nicknamed as ‘paradise on Earth‘ thanks to its beautiful beaches, mountain scenery and great weather.

In the summer months, Antalya has average highs of 33C – and it still has daily highs of 23C in November this week.

Thanks to this, Antalya is incredibly popular with Brits, around 1.5 million British tourists visited Antalya between January and October 2024.

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To make it even better, the average flight time from the UK is around four and a half hours.

There are plenty of great beaches around the coast like Lara Beach, known for its fine sand and luxury resorts.

The Turkish resort is known for having plenty of family-friendly hotelsCredit: Alamy

Other popular beaches include Konyaaltı Beach, which has a long pebble and sand coastline.

Patara Beach is one of Turkey‘s longest beaches, and there’s also Kaputaş Beach which is small cove between the towns of Kaş and Kalkan.

Being such a family-friendly destination, there are plenty of huge hotels with on-site waterparks, kids clubs, activities, and beach access.

One writer visited the Regnum Carya Golf and Spa which has a full-size football pitch, a golf course, seven pools and a waterpark.

Stacey Solomon even stayed at the new sister hotel called Regnum The Crown this summer which has a Blue Flag beach and unique ice fountain.

This summer, another writer took a visit to the Titanic Deluxe Lara in Antalya, the hotel’s design was inspired by the fateful Titanic ship.

Corendon Airlines is also expanding routs from the UK to CreteCredit: Alamy

And another destination that airline hopes to expand to is Heraklion, the capital of Crete.

Corendon will increase its Heraklion capacity by 20 per cent as the popularity of the city grows for Brits.

The island is known for its beautiful beaches, as well as nightlife, historical sites like the Palace of Knossos.

If you fancy booking, Corendon Airlines has also extended its reservation system to be able to make bookings 700 days ahead of the trip.

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Turkey’s ‘best kept secret’ is a quiet seaside village that’s right by Antalya…

Just 90 minutes away from Antalya is the seaside village of Cirali.

It’s found on a quiet sea valley, surrounded by mountains, crystal-clear waters and sandy beaches.

The village was called “one of Turkey‘s best-kept secrets” in an article in the Sunday Telegraph.

Despite not being far from Kemer and Antalya, only a few Brits seem to holiday in Cirali.

Because of its protected status as a nesting site for loggerhead turtles, the seaside village doesn’t have huge all-inclusive resorts or large hotel chains.

The beach, which is a mixture of shingle and sand, is its main attraction. While metal cages mark the turtle nests, there is still plenty of space for holidaymakers.

Other facilities at the beach include several restaurants that serve a range of grilled fish and rustic stews.

Away from the beach, other activities include yoga classes, cycling routes and walking routes.

Here’s more on where Brits should visit in Turkey from a Turkish flight attendant.

Plus, check out the luxurious new 5* all-suite hotel is jewel of Turkey’s Turquoise coast, with stunning sky pool, 22 restaurants & 30 bars.

Corendon Airlines will add new flights to Antalya for next summerCredit: Alamy

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TUI Black Friday sale and 2026 offers for winter sun and summer holidays

Aerial view of a beach in Mexico, with many boats on the water and people on the sand, surrounded by lush green hills.

WANT to snap up a holiday next year for less? TUI Black Friday sale has something for every budget.

Whether you’re looking to book some New Year winter sun or next summer’s break, there are great deals to be had.

Las Teresitas beach is walking distance from Santa Cruz, capital of Tenerife

With TUI, you can bag Black Friday discount codes for offers that cover departure dates from January 1, 2026 to October 31, 2027.

Simply bookmark the Black Friday sales page at tui.co.uk, browse the discount codes, apply them to the trip of your choice and save big.

The world is your oyster – but where to go?

Long haul or short?

It’s not too late to treat yourself to a winter holiday in the New Year – TUI’s Black Friday discount vouchers can be used for last-minute trips.

Tempted by the thought of some some sunshine? While we shiver at home, Florida is enjoying average temperatures of 25C – so hit the beach, tour Miami or visit Orlando’s theme parks.

Or soak up the sun in Mexico, explore Mayan ruins, laze on powder-sand beaches and stay in an incredible seafront hotel.

The Canaries are always a hit, winter or summer, with Tenerife and Gran Canaria ever-reliable choices.

Agaete – in the north of Gran Canaria – has some great beaches and natural pools, plus a quaint old town with a walled botanical garden.

Corfu is in the Ionian Sea, known for its turquoise waters

Greece is the word

How about one of the Greek islands? Corfu is a lush picture of cypress trees, olive groves and sun-bleached towns.

Make sure to fit in a trip to Paradise Beach, reachable only by boat.

Elsewhere, Rhodes has a breathtaking mix of dazzling beaches and ancient ruins.

Take the ferry to tiny island of Symi, which has a beautiful harbour and a striking 15th-century monastery on the waterfront.

Spain’s Balearics always deliver. Cala Galdana – a small, colourful resort set in a lovely cove in southern Menorca – has lots to keep the family entertained.

And of course Ibiza’s party scene, bohemian vibes and gorgeous sand are rightly legendary.

The Caribbean shores of Riviera Maya on Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula

How to shop the deals

Book your next break now with the TUI Black Friday discount code BLKFRI, available to use when you open a myTUI account online.

With a myTUI account you can save up to £300* per booking on a package – including thousands of family-friendly getaways – from January 2026 to October 2027.

Once you’re set up, having your details stored online allows you to book that break swiftly before the deal is snapped up and disappears.

And if you already have dates and destinations in mind, that helps to narrow your search for the best deals.

Sign up for weekly emails and you’ll receive discounts direct to your inbox.

When you shop the TUI Black Friday sale, you’ll find unbeatable bargains… so what are you waiting for?


Find a Black Friday deal at
tui.co.uk

*Save £300 per booking when you spend £3,500 with code BLKFRI; save £300per booking including children aged 2 and over on TUI package holidays. Offer excludes city destinations operated on third-party flights. Discount is valid on holidays departing between January 1, 2026 and October 31, 2027. Minimum spend is £3,500. Room upgrades and flight extras on TUI flying will count towards your minimum spend. However, other extras such as insurance andTUI Care Foundation donations do not count towards your minimum spend.Saving is based on a minimum of 2 adults sharing. Offer is valid until midnight on December 2, 2025 when logged into a myTUI account. Offer does not apply to accommodation only, flight only, cruise and ski bookings. Offer is valid for new bookings only when logged into a myTUI account and can only be redeemed once. Enter code BLKFRI in upper case when on the holiday payment page of the TUI website. See tui.co.uk or the relevant brochure for booking terms and conditions. Offer is subject to availability and may be amended or withdrawn at any time without notice. This promotional code is non-transferable and not valid in conjunction with any other discount code.

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Ryanair to axe even MORE flights to Europe next summer

RYANAIR is set to scrap even more flights across Europe next year.

It comes just months after they confirmed that two million seats would be scrapped across Spain.

A Boeing 737-800 Ryanair aircraft at Frankfurt-Hahn Airport.
Ryanair is axing more flights to FranceCredit: Alamy

Earlier this year, the budget airline said they would be cancelling all flights to three French airports –  Bergerac, Brive, and Strasbourg.

However, more are set to be axed, they have confirmed, affecting passengers in summer 2026.

Chief Commercial Officer Jason McGuinness told local media: “We will be leaving several regional airports in France this summer. 

“When you increase taxes by 180 per cent, it makes these airports unviable for us.”

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The new taxes will see an extra €4.77 per flight ticket when it comes to short haul flights.

However, long haul flights will increase by €120 (£105). 

Which airports in France will be affected is yet to be confirmed.

Back in August, Ryanair said confirmed that two million seats across Spain would be being scrapped.

This affects all flights to and from Tenerife North, Vigo, Santiago Valladolid and Jerez.

Ryanair boss Michael O’Leary said at the time: “If the costs in regional Spain are too high, I will fly elsewhere.

“We are better off flying at the same cost to places such as Palma [on the island of Mallorca] than flying to Jerez.”

The airport worst affected is Vigo, as the cancellations mean there are no longer any direct UK flights.

Another 1.2million seats are set to be cancelled across Spain next summer.

Lots of airports across Germany are also seeing a reduction in flights.

Memmingen Airport is losing 27 flights a week this winter, while Berlin will lose 76 in January alone.

Cologne is losing 44 in January as well.

Ryanair’s CEO Eddie Wilson said back in August: “Germany’s air travel market is broken and needs an urgent fix.

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“As a result of these high Govt taxes/fees (the highest in Europe), and Lufthansa’s high-fare monopoly, German citizens/visitors now pay the highest air fares in Europe.”

Dortmund, Dresden, and Leipzig airports are to stay closed over winter.

Passengers boarding a Ryanair plane at Manchester Airport.
Ryanair has already axed flights across Spain and GermanyCredit: Alamy

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English seaside theme park to ‘return to former glory’ with plans for big new rides next summer

A MUCH-LOVED family attraction is set to reopen with a major revamp thanks to new owners.

Pleasurewood Hills in Lowestoft, Suffolk, has new owners that are promising to return the theme park to its “former glory”, as well as add new rides.

Pleasurewood Hills near Lowestoft will undergo a revamp before reopening next yearCredit: Alamy

The attraction’s new owners, Premier Attractions, plan to invest in at least three rides when the park reopens next spring, according to Great Yarmouth Mercury.

Run by three brothers, Freddy, Spencer and Davis Stokes, Premier Attractions is hoping to restore some of the rides, such as Cannonball Express – a figure of eight-style rollercoaster that was built back in 1983.

Freddy Stokes Jnr, 42, the eldest of the three brothers said: “We promise there will be more rides next year – three big rides, possibly four.

“Some people love the Cannonball, others hate it.

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“It’s an iconic ride at the park, but I need to get it to where I’m happy to operate it.”

He added that the ride needs more trains and to move from its current location to “stand proud” in the centre of the park.

He added: “It definitely has life left in it, but it’s how and what we do with it.”

Other changes at the park will also be seen in the car park, which currently charges visitors a fee of £3 a day.

Premier Attractions has inherited the contract from Pleasurewood Hills’ previous owners and it is owned by the park but operated by a third party.

Freddy added: “We’re not going to fix everything overnight, but we promise we will improve the park.

“But without people coming back, it’s all for nothing, so we need their support.”

Pleasurewood Hills expects to reopen on March 28, 2026.

And it will be the first theme park owned by Premier Attractions after purchasing the attraction from French operator Looping Group last month.

The company usually operates rides at events and fairs across the UK and has been based in Manchester since 2011.

Currently, nine of the company’s rides are at Kuwait’s Winter Wonderland and another seven are on the way to Hong Kong’s AIA Carnival, where they will be based for 66 days before heading back to the UK.

A company called Premier Attractions will take over the theme park and plans to add three or four rides to the parkCredit: Alamy

Premier Attractions has also operated rides at some of the UK’s biggest events and fairs, such as Winter Wonderland, Edinburgh‘s Hogmanay Festival, Leeds and Download music festivals, Hull Fair and the Hoppings in Newcastle.

At Pleasurewood Hills, there are currently over 35 rides, shows and attractions for all ages including the region’s largest rollercoaster, a large drop tower and a log flume.

Day entry would cost from £27 per person, but it is not clear whether this price will be the same when the attraction reopens.

The theme park then closed for the season on November 2.

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In other attraction news, the UK’s best value theme park to open all major rides this winter for the first time.

Plus, the ‘world-first’ £5billion theme park set to open – after plans for UK version were axed.

Entry to the theme park used to cost from £27 per person, but it is unclear if this price will remain in placeCredit: Alamy

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I’m a travel writer – here’s why I always book my summer holidays in November

While the New Year is a peak time for booking summer holidays, especially for families looking to jet away outside of term time, here’s why I tend to be an early bird booker in November

The promise of a summer holiday is often the thing that gets you through the post-Christmas slump. And holiday companies certainly know this. While you’re finishing your turkey sandwich and fighting festive hangovers, there are two adverts you’ll see a lot of; sofa sales and holidays.

As a travel journalist, I take a lot of last-minute breaks, but as a busy mum when it comes to booking my own holidays, I like to be organised. This means that before I’ve put the tree up I’ve often got my summer holiday booked, and November can be an excellent time to start browsing travel sites.

Here are some of the reasons why I’m already thinking about my summer holidays this month and will likely be booking in the next couple of weeks.

1. Yes, there are some great deals

While travel companies do offer sales in January and February, November is a quiet month for bookings for travel companies, which means there are often flash sales and deals going on that aren’t as heavily promoted, but can still save you a lot of money.

Of course, the big one in November is Black Friday. At the time of writing, many of the major operators were still keeping their deals under wraps, although Jet2 currently have 20% off flights and £100 per person off all holidays.

Black Friday is officially on November 28, but in my experience, most travel companies will launch their offerings before then. If there’s a particular tour operator, airline, or cruise provider you’re interested in, sign up for their newsletter now. Some of them will give early access to deals, and you can always unsubscribe later.

2. Availability is better

Most airlines and accommodation providers will have released their 2026 summer availability by now for early bird bookers. If you’re looking for a very specific destination or holiday type, for example a certain cabin type on a cruise or a sea view apartment in your favourite resort, then you’ve got a better chance of nabbing it now before the New Year rush.

As someone who once endured an overnight ferry to France in a reclining seat because I booked too late and there were no cabins left, I always try to get bookings locked in as soon as I know the dates I want. Car hire is another one that tends to be better booked in advance, especially if you’re visiting a small Spanish or Greek island, as they’ll often have limited vehicles available.

3. It’s easier to budget

As a parent whose family holiday dates are restricted to half terms and those dreaded six weeks of summer, I’m well aware how expensive it can be to even get a few nights in a caravan during peak times. That’s why I like to take advantage of interest-free options for spreading the cost, so I can budget monthly and get the holiday paid off before I go.

TUI, for example, offer zero deposit options, with the cost of the holiday paid in instalments via direct debit. The last payment is made eight weeks before your holiday, so if you book earlier, you can spread it in smaller instalments which I find much less painful than paying in one go.

Some UK holiday providers offer the same such Haven offer low deposits of £30 and a variety of payment options to help you budget.

Always make sure you can afford the monthly payments, as missing one could mean your holiday ends up getting cancelled with any payments lost. Read any terms and conditions carefully. Make sure there’s no interest being added and avoid options like credit cards and pay later providers who can add massive fees.

4. You can lock down popular annual leave dates

If you’ve ever worked in a team with other parents, you’ll know there can be a battle to get weeks off at certain times of year. Even if you aren’t booking your holiday yet, it’s worth getting those annual leave requests in. Of course, never book a holiday before you’ve had your annual leave approved.

5. Enjoy the holiday excitement for longer

Christmas can be a stressful time, so it’s nice to have something to look forward to. I appreciate it’s not the same for everyone, but I really love the countdown to my big holiday. It gives me plenty of time to look for local attractions I want to visit, and even start shopping for holiday clothes.

Admittedly, early booking isn’t for everyone, some people love to be spontaneous. But if you’re already dreaming of jetting off in summer it may be a good time to see what the tour operators have to offer.

Have a story you want to share? Email us at [email protected].

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20,000 Brits abandoned Spanish hotspot this summer as boss admits ‘it’s worrying’

Ibiza’s tourism minister has admitted that 20,000 fewer Brits visited the Balearic island during the high season this year compared to 2020, as protests against overtourism raged across Spain

Tens of thousands of Brits stayed away from Ibiza this summer, the island’s tourism minister has admitted.

Last summer, protests aimed at overtourism raged across key Spanish holiday destinations as locals declared that they’d had enough. They did so during a record-breaking year, with 94 million holidaymakers heading to Spain in 2024. According to the Spanish Ministry of Tourism, international travellers spent an estimated €126.3 billion in the country in 2024, a 16.1% increase on the year before.

As welcome as the cash likely is, the pressure such high volumes of visitors are having on housing, public infrastructure, and the way of life in Spain is simply not worth it for many. And last year, huge numbers decided to take to the streets to make their voices heard.

At the World Travel Market (WTM) in London this week, Ibiza’s Minister of Tourism, Jaume Bauza, addressed the potential impact of the protests on visitor numbers, and said that 20,000 fewer Brits had decided to visit the Balearic island during the high season this year compared to 2020.

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However, the island’s tourism chiefs are hopeful they’ve just moved their breaks to October and November, when temperatures are less sizzling and the chances of protest disruption are lower. Flight capacity to the Balearics is up 8% this November compared to 2024, in anticipation of more shoulder-season travellers.

When asked if people were not travelling because they were worried about getting swept up in overtourism protests, Mr Bauza said through a translator: “The truth is, any decrease in the attendance from our main markets, such as the British market, is a reason to worry. However, this has been compensated for by the increase from the French, Swiss, and Italian markets. The increase is comparable to last season. Any decrease from our biggest markets is something we need to pay attention to. With regards to protests, we respect them, but they do not worry us.”

Ibiza has signalled a shift towards higher-end, higher-spending tourism over the past year. At the WTM, Mr. Bauza detailed plans to crack down on illegal holiday lets and to monitor the tourism industry’s impact on the island’s natural environment.

“I want the British who visit our islands who are, and will always be, warmly welcome, to be aware of and familiar with this transformation process, because I want them to be aware and participate in the changes we are undertaking,” the tourism boss said.

“Because it’s not about growing for growth’s sake, but of taking care of what we already have, of ensuring each visitor experiences the very best of our islands and that our residents feel the same pride.”

Pedro Homar, managing director of the Palma Tourism Board, said visitor numbers to the Majorcan capital remained strong this summer. He told the Mirror: “British tourism is the number one nationality for us in the city of Palma, it has been like that for the last five years and we want to continue like this. We really want to make sure that Palma gets more UK tourists, and they’re more than welcome.”

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Hollywood A lister confirmed for Download Festival alongside three HUGE US bands as headliners

DOWNLOAD festival has landed a Hollywood A-lister to perform at the rock and metal event next summer.

The 2026 line-up was announced this evening and features the surprising actor, as well as three American bands topping the bill.

Keanu Reeves smiling, wearing a dark suit jacket and black t-shirt, with long dark hair and a gray beard, attending the Culinary Stage at BottleRock Napa Valley Music Festival.
Keanu Reeves will play Download festival next summer as bassist for band DogstarCredit: Getty
Axl Rose, Slash, and Duff McKagan perform onstage during the Power Trip music festival.
Guns N’ Roses will also hit the stage on the SaturdayCredit: Getty

Download will return to Leicestershire’s Donington Park from June 10 to 14, with The Matrix and John Wick star Keanu Reeves set to play.

The band Dogstar, for which he plays bass, are among a series of acts which have been officially unveiled.

Limp Bizkit will headline the Friday night, followed by Guns N’ Roses on the Saturday.

Linkin Park will close the festival on the Sunday night, marking their first performance at the festival since frontwoman Emily Armstrong was brought in.

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They previously headlined four times between 2004 and 2014 with their original line-up.

And it comes after Linkin Park played a sold out concert at Wembley Stadium in June.

Tickets are already on sale for the 23rd annual festival, which will also feature performances from Pendulum, Trivium, The All-American Rejects, Mastodon and Bush.

Other acts on the line-up include Feeder, Ash, Tom Morello, The Pretty Reckless and Those Damn Crows.

Limp Bizkit’s booking comes just a fortnight after it was revealed that bassist and founding member Sam Rivers had died aged 48.

They paid tribute to him last month when they described him as not “just our bass player” but “the soul in the sound.”

The band said: “From the first note we ever played together, Sam brought a light and a rhythm that could never be replaced.

“His talent was effortless, his presence unforgettable, his heart enormous.”

The full rundown of artists was revealed at a launch event at the Barbican in central London, where guests were entertained by fortune tellers and a string quartet.

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