summer

AUGUST flights don’t come cheap, but there are some serious savings to be found this summer as airlines slash prices to entice Brits who’ve been nervous about booking because of the Iran war.

Sun Travel has worked with Skyscanner to find some of the cheapest flights that are actually during the school holidays – with some as little as £23 each way.

Follow The Sun’s award-winning travel team on Instagram and Tiktok for top holiday tips and inspiration @thesuntravel.

Working with Skyscanner, Sun Travel has crunched the numbers and discovered where Brits can find the cheapest flights that are actually in the school summer holidays.

Some destinations have dropped prices significantly since last summer including favourites like Venice and Nice.

Starting with Venice, an economy return flight starts from £46pp in August this year – which is down by 14 per cent from August 2025.

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Famous for its waterways, the beautiful city is one of the most visited in Italy.

And if you travel out of the city, there are charming Italian seaside villages peppered along the Adriatic coast.

Don’t forget to stop by Burano an island in the Venetian Lagoon with pretty rainbow-coloured fisherman’s houses.

A little closer to home, return flights to the French city of Nice start from £48pp – which is a decrease of 19 per cent.

The city is perfect for Brits as it can be reached in as little as two hours and August has highs of 27C so it’s perfect for basking on its pretty beaches.

From Nice, it’s an easy train ride along the Cote D’Azur to some of France’s most beautiful seaside towns like Cannes, Villefranche Sur Mer and Antibes.

Return flights to the German city of Berlin start from £49pp this summer which is 10 per cent less than last year.

The city has plenty of history as well as vibrant murals and nightlife.

And while it isn’t very close to the seaside, Germany and neighbouring Switzerland which is easily reached by train, have stunning countryside and lakeside retreats that are the perfect temperature in mid-summer.

Although, just an hour’s drive from the city centre is Großer Wannsee – it’s a large lake and is actually considered one of ‘Europe’s largest inland lidos’.

It’s a popular summer swim spot and place for a summer daytrip.

When it comes to the flights with the biggest drop in prices return flights to Cape Town in South Africa are down 20 per cent with an average price from £689pp.

It’s not the warmest time of year to visit Cape Town, but in August visitors can enjoy whale-watching and views of Table Mountain.

It’s also one of the cheapest bucket list destinations, with everything from safari to vineyards and stunning seaside towns all easily reached from the South African capital.

Another destination that Skyscanner recommends as being cheap with affordable flights is Dortmund in Germany – with an average flight of £72.

The German city is famous for its football culture and highlights its huge Signal Iduna Park and the exhibits at the German Football Museum.

Thanks to its location, both Munster and Dusseldorf are around an hour in each direction by car for those who fancy other city daytrips.

Meanwhile, in the Calabria region in southern Italy, you’ll find the port city of Crotone – where return flights start as little as £62pp.

It once a Greek colony that was the home of Pythagoras.

Visitors should head to Crotone’s harbour which is central to the city and a lively spot for local seafood markets and restaurants.

The Old Town is the spot for nightlife too, with plenty of bars and a pint can be picked up for only €3 (£2.59).

It’s known for its floating fortress off Capo Rizzuto.

Prices correct at the time of publication

EUROPE’S biggest mini-golf course spans 107,000 square feet – and it’s based in the UK.

With summer just around the corner, finding the best locations for a day out is key.

And it turns out that Europe‘s largest mini-golf course is located in an English town and boasts an epic Australian theme.

Adlington Golf Centre in Macclesfield is home to the huge Australian Golf Adventure experience, complete with an 18-hole course, a giant waterfall and snake statues.

Located around a 45-minute drive from Manchester, it’s the perfect family day out, described as “a fun, themed competition which involves putting a golf ball around challenging themed holes”.

Players can grab their club and tee off to enjoy each hole’s individual Australian-based decor.

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From the Sydney Opera House to countless kangaroos, the course’s design means you don’t have to catch a long flight to get a taste of life Down Under.

The game is played on 1500 square metres of greens based on the impressive 10,000 square metre Cheshire site, while caves, bridges and a 7.5m waterwall add to the thrills.

While players can book before they arrive, spontaneous arrivals are welcome too, with individual tickets priced from £5.

Adult entry to the course will set you back £15 per person and a children’s tickets for 13 years and under is a tenner.

A family of two adults and two kids can go for £44, while spectators and kids aged four and under will cost just £5 each.

It’s even cheaper to book as a group of twelve or more, with adults down to £12, children to £8 and toddlers and spectators for £4.

The on-site café and coffee shops are open all day for refreshments after a long round of golf – serving snacks, hot drinks, hot food and pastries.

For those hoping to get stuck into something more grown-up, the centre also hosts two nine-hole golf courses, a foot golf course and a driving range for a good whack.

There’s good news if you’re riding the padel hype, too. Adlington Golf Centre will soon be home to four brand new, state-of-the-art padel courts, set to open this year.

WHO doesn’t love a trip to the British seaside on a sunny day? That is, as long as the water is clean.

With temperatures hitting highs of 30C this weekend, Brits will be flocking to the coastline to enjoy the weather at some of our best beaches – but before you dive in headfirst, make sure it’s safe for swimming.

Follow The Sun’s award-winning travel team on Instagram and Tiktok for top holiday tips and inspiration @thesuntravel.

While most beaches are absolutely fine to have a paddle – there are some that you absolutely do not want to swim in because of bad water quality and even sewage spills.

Swimming in polluted water or water of poor classification can leave people ill due to the likelihood of harmful bacteria, viruses, or pathogens like E. coli being present.

The most common illness associated with bathing in dirty water is gastroenteritis, which causes diarrhoea and vomiting.

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In most cases these symptoms are mild and resolve on their own – but some cases can be severe and result in hospitalisation.

Channel 4 even did a recent three-part series called Dirty Business based on the investigation into England’s systemic sewage pollution crisis.

The series exposes widespread, illegal raw sewage discharges into UK waterways and the failure of privatised water companies to properly manage environmental regulation.

So, before you go swimming this weekend, and later this summer – it’s important to do some checks first.

Live sewage spills

The best place to check if bathing water has been recently affected by sewage spills is with Surfers Against Sewage (SAS).

The marine conservation and campaigning charity is fighting to keep our favourite swim spots clean.

On their website, you can see which bathing water has been recently affected by sewage as it updates a map with live discharge information.

Louise Reddy, Senior Policy Officer at Surfers Against Sewage told Sun Travel: “If you’re heading to the beach or planning on taking a dip in a lake or river, check the Safer Seas and Rivers Service app.

“This is the UK’s only real-time water quality information service ensuring thousands of water users around the UK can check for pollution alerts, and make an informed choice about entering the water. You can download the app, or view pollution alerts on the web version.

“We shouldn’t need to check for sewage alerts before diving in, however the grim reality is that rain or shine, water companies are dumping sewage into our wild waters, whilst paying out profits to shareholders.

“That’s why we are demanding that the Government takes the bold action needed to restructure the water industry, removing the profit motive and changing the system so it operates for people and the planet.”

Water quality

Swimfo on the government website allows you to look up details of a designated bathing water by name or location and see the quality of its waters.

These are then classified and from best to worst these are “excellent”, “good”, “sufficient” or “poor”.

Where water quality is poor, the water it has a marker along with the words, “Bathing is not advised”.

Be aware, however, that this is based on testing from last year.

Water testing for 2026 will be undertaken 20 times between May 15 and September 30.

If you’re heading to beaches not in England, information about bathing water quality in other countries in the UK can be found here: Scotland (SEPA), Wales (NRW), or Northern Ireland (DAERA)

Blue Flag beaches

Across the country, the ‘Blue Flag’ is awarded to swimming spots that are clean, safe, and well-managed.

These were announced two days ago with a total of 61 sites including beaches, a marina and an inland water bathing area have been awarded the accolade.

If you’re heading to a Blue Flag spot this weekend like Whitley Bay, Southwold or Botany Bay, the flag should be flying.

It’s recognisable as a vibrant blue flag with a distinct white circle in the middle and what looks like a blue wave inside.

But there are some instances in which the flag is revoked – for example if water quality drops below the strict standard.

So if you don’t see it on your trip to the seaside, check online to find out why.

Other flags

When you get to the beach, check around for other flags which will advise on safety.

If you visit a lifeguarded beach, there will be flags on the beach to show you where it’s safe to swim.

If you’re planning to swim or bodyboard, stay between the red-and-yellow flags as that is where lifeguards are on duty.

A solid red flags means ‘Dangerous conditions: do not enter the water.’

And of course if the beach or bathing water isn’t lifeguarded make sure to take extra safety precautions.

Check for further safety tips on the RNLI website.

A VICTORIAN seaside spot has doubled in size thanks to a £185 million promenade makeover.

The beachfront has now reopened to visitors after six months of work.

Southsea beach in Portsmouth is undergoing a huge redevelopment as work continues to increase the beach’s size and improve the promenade flood defences.

The Southsea Coastal Scheme is a £185 million project that was introduced to help reduce the risk of flooding to thousands of homes and local businesses.

Its planned defences will stretch along a 2.7 mile section of the seafront and is the UK’s biggest local authority-led coastal defences project.

The beach widening work, which covered the stretch between the Pyramid Centre and the Coffee Cup café began in October last year and was completed by March 2026.

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Increasing the beach’s width was achieved using shingle dredged from a nearby strait close to the Isle of Wight, with one million tonnes of shingle deposited on the beach using a pipeline from the dredger.

Widening the beach improves the area’s flood defences as the larger beach can now absorb more wave energy and will better defend the coastline.

While this process was underway, access to the beach was limited for safety reasons and certain sections were closed to the public, reopening section-by-section as work was completed.

Speaking on the decision to expand the beach, Southsea Coastal Scheme project executive, Marc Bryan, said: “We’ve chosen to build a larger shingle beach in this area because they’re great at absorbing wave energy which in turn helps reduce erosion and protects homes and businesses from coastal flooding.

“The new beach will adapt to rising seas and our changing climate while still providing the required standard of protection.

“It will be easily maintained and can be topped up if needed in the future.”

Other work that forms part of the scheme has already been completed including the demolition and creation of a new seawall around Long Curtain Moat.

Two new bridges were also built nearby and the promenade was made higher and wider with additional seating.

Rocks were imported to create new sea defences around Southsea Castle and improvements have been made to part of the promenade between Pyramids and Speaker’s corner, including new terraces, seating and play areas.

Currently, construction work is underway between South Parade Pier and Speaker’s Corner creating a new-look promenade and improving the defences.

Large precast concrete blocks have been installed onto 75 units on the sea frontage, cleverly disguised as tiered planters and seating.

The promenade level is also in the process of being raised using a mix of crushed stone and crushed concrete from the previous promenade.

When complete, the new promenade area will match the existing seafront paving.

Construction is expected to continue till May 2027, and while the work is underway, certain areas of the beachfront will be closed, however many local businesses will remain open.

The entire coastal defence scheme is expected to be completed by 2029.

The beach, made up of a mix of shingle and sand, has been a popular tourist destination since the 19th century and is located just a mile south of Portsmouth city centre.

Named after the nearby Southsea Castle, the beach first welcomed its South Parade Pier in 1879, originally the site of a passenger steamer service for travellers heading to the Isle of Wight.

The seafront has been described by visitors as “a little gem” on the South East coast, with a “wonderful” promenade full of shops and cafes.

ALL aboard for a summer of family fun at Drayton Manor Resort, where Sun readers can grab up to four tickets to the UK’s best-value theme park and zoo.

There are 10,000 FREE tickets up for grabs, plus another 90,000 tickets for just £20 — that is the lowest price you will anywhere, and that’s guaranteed!

With over 50 thrilling rides and attractions, plus a 15-acre zoo all in one destination. It is the perfect place for unforgettable family adventures and shared experiences. 

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

From adrenaline-filled rollercoasters to family rides designed for all ages, there’s excitement around every corner, including guests under 90cm tall.

Younger guests can explore the magical world of Thomas Land™, Europe’s only Thomas & Friends™ themed area, featuring 25 rides and attractions inspired by the beloved characters from the Island of Sodor.

Families can also explore Drayton Manor’s zoo, home to animals from around the world, where they can swap rollercoasters for unforgettable animal experiences without ever leaving the park, making it both fun and educational.

Whether you are planning a big family day out, celebrating a special occasion or simply looking for a memorable adventure, Drayton Manor Theme Park & Zoo offers epic family fun.

How to get four tickets to Drayton Manor Resort

To secure your seats, follow the steps below:

Step 1: Download the Sun Savers app or sign up at sunsavers.co.uk

Step 2: Go to the Offers section on the app or website and click Start Collecting on the Drayton Manor Resort page.

Step 3: Once you have FOUR out of 12 Sun Savers codes. We will print one daily from Saturday, May 23 to Wednesday, June 3.

Step 4: Once you have collected FOUR Sun Savers codes, enter them on Sun Savers to unclock booking from 11am Tuesday, May 26. Click the Redeem code button and get your unique code, then book tickets on the Drayton Manor website by midnight Tuesday, June 23.

Or join Sun Club at thesun.co.uk/club for just £1.99 a month. Head to the Drayton Manor Resort page on Sun Club hub. Click the Redeem code button and get your unique code, then book tickets on the Drayton Manor Resort website by midnight Tuesday, July 21.

Tickets are available from the start of June until the end of September, excluding August.

18+ UK only (exc. IoM & CI). Sun Savers multiple code collect 23/05/26-03/06/26 or subscription to Sun Club or Digital Newspaper required. Booking closes 23/06/26 (Sun Savers/Digital Newspaper) and 21/07/26 (Sun Club). Tickets available from 01/06/23 – 30/09/26 excluding August, 2026. Non-transferable & non-refundable. Subject to availability, daily allocation limits apply. Limit of 4 tickets per person (maximum 2 free tickets). New customer offer: £1.99 per month or £12 per year unless you cancel at least seven days before your next billing date. Full T&Cs apply, see sunsavers.co.uk or club.thesun.co.uk/sun-club.

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

FOR cheap all-inclusive holidays, one destination in Europe has just been revealed as most affordable spot for summer this year.

TravelSupermarket has found that one spot along the Bulgarian coastline that’s the ideal for spot families with pretty beaches and hotels with aqua parks.

Follow The Sun’s award-winning travel team on Instagram and Tiktok for top holiday tips and inspiration @thesuntravel.

Making a change for 2026, TravelSupermarket has totted up the prices and found that Bulgaria has knocked Tunisia off its perch for cheapest destinations this summer.

A week in the Bourgas Area averages out at just £553per person.

The Bourgas Area is along the Black Sea coast in southeastern Bulgaria – and a few places might be familiar to Brits.

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The major city of the region is Burgas, but most will recognise the name Sunny Beach.

It’s Bulgaria’s largest holiday resort with almost five miles of golden sandy coast and plenty of nightlife.

On TravelSupermarket, all-inclusive holidays to Sunny Beach in the week beginning June 15 cost as little as £249pp.

In July during the summer holidays, all-inclusive breaks increase to around £529pp.

One favourite spotted by Sun Travel is to the DIT Evrika Beach Club Hotel which is perfect for families with young children.

The hotel has multiple swimming pools and even an aqua park with flumes.

It has six bars, five restaurants and plenty of entertainment throughout the day and during the evening.

A seven-night all-inclusive break for a family of four departing on June 22 costs £562per person.

Other popular spots in the area include the historic town of Sozopol and Nessebar.

Nessebar is known for its history, seaside and charming cobblestone streets.

On the approach is The Windmill of Nessebar, which was built in the 19th century and is a symbol of the town’s rich maritime history.

Here, the average price of an ice cream is £1.20, a family meal is priced around £28, and a three course dinner for two costs just £22.

In a surprise change of events, Tunisia, which was last year’s number one cheapest destination has dropped out of the top 10 entirely.

Meanwhile Rhodes, Majorca and Dalaman are all cheaper than they were last summer, with savings of up to £91 per person.

The pretty island of Menorca takes second place at an average of £588 per person, with Turkey‘s Bodrum Area close behind in third at £591.

Turkey‘s Antalya Area follows in fourth at £604, and Greek favourite Rhodes rounds out the top five at £608 per person.

Chris Webber, Head of Holidays and Deals at TravelSupermarket, said: “Bulgaria taking the crown this year is a real moment. The Bourgas Area — home to Sunny Beach and Burgas — has long been one of the most affordable spots on the Black Sea, but seeing it leapfrog Tunisia to top the all-inclusive rankings shows just how much value it’s offering British holidaymakers right now.

“It’s also striking that Tunisia, which held the top two spots last summer, doesn’t make the top 10 this year — a reminder that the cheapest destinations can shift year on year.

“The good news for anyone heading back to old favourites is that Rhodes, Majorca and Dalaman are all still in the top ten, and are noticeably cheaper than they were last summer.”

TravelSupermarket analysed all-inclusive holidays between 1–20 April 2026 for trips departing May–September 2026, across all star ratings, durations and traveller groups.

YOU CAN swap the Aegean coast for a cheaper rival destination that hits 25C in June and is just three hours from the UK.

Come summer or winter, Bulgaria is a great European destination to visit, but one spot in particular boasts a Mediterranean feel for less – Obzor Beach.

Follow The Sun’s award-winning travel team on Instagram and Tiktok for top holiday tips and inspiration @thesuntravel.

Found in the Bourgas region of the country, Obzor Beach sprawls across nearly five miles and boasts a Blue Flag status, recognising the beach for its safe feel and picturesque vibe.

Just to add to the prettiness of the spot, the beach is also backed by mountains.

And the great news is that the sunny destination is cheaper than many popular Mediterranean spots and even, less crowded too.

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According to First Choice, an all inclusive stay costs just £459 per person at Obzor Beach, whereas along Turkey‘s Aegean Coast – including destinations like Bodrum – you’d be likely to spend around £400 more per person for a similar holiday in June.

Obzor used to be known as Heliopolis, meaning the City of Sun before later becoming the Roman settlement of Templum Iovis.

Some of the settlement can still be seen today, such as column fragments found in local parks.

And if you visit Obzor Beach, you shouldn’t be short for space to spread out as the beach is one of the longest in Bulgaria.

When heading to the beach, visitors can choose between free public spots where they can put up their own parasol or head to one of the sections managed by nearby hotels and beach bars where they can hire a sunbed.

One recent visitor said: “One of the most beautiful beaches in the whole of Bulgaria.

“Relatively clean and well maintained with a lot of activities to do.

“Waves are amazing and fun to fight.”

Make sure to visit Sloboda Square in the old town too, where you can enjoy an immersive dining experience at Hanove, complete with castle-like entrances and stone clad walls.

Alternatively, you could opt to visit The House Bar & Dinner, which is the top rated restaurant in the area on TripAdvisor, with traditional Bulgarian dishes including Bulgarian potatoes with cheese and bacon.

In the town visitors can find a museum as well, which recounts the history of Obzor and its inhabitants including an ancient village.

There’s also the beachfront promenade where visitors will find an abundance of bars, shops and restaurants to explore.

Want to be away from the main hustle and bustle? Then make sure to stay at the four-star Hotel Sol Luna Bay, with three pools, a waterpark and spa.

Sarah Jooste, Product Portfolio Executive at First Choice said: “Not many people think of Bulgaria for a relaxing beach break.

“Many have heard that Sunny Beach is a great option for nightlife, but for a chilled holiday people reach for the classics like Greece and Turkey.

“But Obzor beach averages about 25C in summer and from London the flight time is about three hours and 20 minutes – so not only is it cheaper than the EU classics, but it’s closer too.”

STILL looking for the dream holiday? This little-known website sells incredible breaks by TUI at lower prices.

From beautiful European islands to city adventures and even the Caribbean – make sure to check out this website first to save your pennies.

Follow The Sun’s award-winning travel team on Instagram and Tiktok for top holiday tips and inspiration @thesuntravel.

HolidayHypermarket has some huge discounts on breaks to destinations across the globe from Spain and Greece, all the way to Mexico and Thailand.

It might seem underhand but actually the website is owned by the TUI Group which is why it has access to deals with reduced rates and discounts.

If you’re looking for a break that’s great value, there are deals from as little as £175per person – or £43pppn.

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For this price, you can jet off to the beautiful Greek Island of Kefalonia at the Pericles Hotel for four-nights with bed and breakfast on June 21.

It includes return flights from Bournemouth Airport, baggage and transfers.

Guests can take a dip in the pool with a beautiful mountain backdrop and in the evening, hunker down in one of its cosy rooms.

Directly with TUI, it’s slightly more expensive at £180pp.

City breaks with HolidayHypermarket start from £145per person.

At this price, you can jet off to Krakow for a three-night stay at the Leone Aparthotel.

It’s found near the historic Old Town Square and is the ideal base for exploring the Polish city.

Highlighted as one of their best and latest all-inclusive packages is a seven-night break to Hotel Meridian in Sunny Beach, Bulgaria.

The hotel has incredible views across the coastline as it’s one of the tallest buildings in the area and there’s a swim-up bar.

The outdoor pool has a section for children, and there’s a top-floor terrace to enjoy sunset during the evening before heading out to enjoy the Sunny Beach nightlife.

The deal on HolidayHypermarket is for two adults departing Newcastle Airport on June 11 for an all-inclusive break and is priced at £528pp.

In comparison, the same package holiday on TUI’s official website is £543.12pp.

If you’re looking to escape the UK in the next few days, then there is a tab for that with last-minute holidays from as little as £330pp – or £47.15pppn.

This is for a seven-night stay at the Sunrise Blue Magic Resort, also in Bulgaria.

It has two swimming pools, a buffet and lobby bar for the evenings with plenty of entertainment.

Directly with TUI, the exact same break comes in at £343.17pp.

Sun Travel spotted one of the most luxe places with a low price tag, which is Hotel Tour Khales in Tunisia, and can be booked from £558pp.

The hotel has a swimming pool and is just steps away from a private golden beach on the edge of Sousse.

There’s an infinity pool, enormous spa, fitness sessions and a tennis court.

Guests can laze about on cabanas by the poolside and enjoy evenings on balconies looking out either at the gardens or beach.

Departing on November 20, it’s for two adults across seven nights from Gatwick Airport.

Long-haul holidays include to far-flung destinations like Thailand, Mexico, Jamaica and the Dominican Republic.

Some of its lowest all-inclusive offers to Jamaica includes a break to the Samsara Cliff Resort.

The hotel is found in Negril at the top of its cliffs and has direct access to the seafront.

You can definitely make the most of the all-inclusive break at its restaurants that specialise in Jamaican food – and there are plenty of rum cocktails too.

As for entertainment, during the week, there’s a live reggae band, and in the evening head over to the sister hotel – Legenda Beach Resort – for more.

For two adults, a seven-night stay departing Manchester Airport on June 3 starts from £931pp.

Directly with TUI, this break costs a little more at £950pp.

HolidayHypermarket has offers on both Marella and TUI River Cruises too.

Prices correct at time of publication.

WITH the bank holiday weekend fast approaching and the weather looking warm, you might want to book a last-minute staycation…

Well, the good news is that whether you want to head north or south, seaside destinations across the country still have availability as temperatures are set to reach up to 28C.

Follow The Sun’s award-winning travel team on Instagram and Tiktok for top holiday tips and inspiration @thesuntravel.

Stowford Farm Meadows, Devon

Found in Combe Martin in Devon, you could book an electric grass pitch at Stowford Farm Meadows for four people between May 22 and 25 for just £104.

The nearest beach is a short 10 minute drive away and at the park you can enjoy a swimming pool and bar.

The holiday park also offers entertainment such as daytime kids shows and bingo in the evenings.

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Lower Hyde Holiday Park, Isle of Wight

Found on the Isle of Wight, you could book a safari tent for four people for £247, staying from Friday May 22 to Sunday May 24.

The Parkdean Resort is just a 15 minute walk downhill to Shanklin Beach and to get back to the resort, instead of walking you can hop on a shuttle.

Then also at the park, there is indoor and outdoor entertainment for guests including an arts and crafts den, new adventure golf and a swimming pool with a water slide.

Pevensey Bay, Sussex

Pevensey Bay Holiday Park near Eastbourne in East Sussex is located right on the beach and over the bank holiday weekend a family of four can stay for £483 between May 22 and May 25.

At the holiday park families can also enjoy a pool and golf.

And if you want to explore a little further, then you can head off on a walk on the Seven Sisters cliff top trail, which has panoramic views of the English Channel.

Waxham Sands Holiday Park, Norfolk

Found in Great Yarmouth, dog-friendly Waxham Sands Holiday Park has stays for this weekend between May 22 and 25 for just £390.15 for a family of four.

The holiday park has direct access to the beach, with it being just a two-minute walk away.

The holiday park has a woodland walk as well as a board game library, adventure golf and a playground, too.

Marine Holiday Park, Rhyl

Over in Rhyl, you could head to Marine Holiday Park for three nights between May 22 and 25 for a family of four, costing £432.

The holiday park boasts a bar, nightclub, kid’s club, children’s pool, outdoor play area and even a hot tub.

Plus, if that wasn’t enough Rhyl Beach is less than a 30-minute walk away.

St Margaret’s Bay Holiday Park, Kent

The Parkdean Resort of St Margaret’s Bay Holiday Park in Kent has stays this weekend for a family of four from £359.

The park is just one mile from the White Cliffs of Dover and is the beach is just a 20-minute walk away.

When it comes to things to do at the park, there is a large indoor pool, spa pool, sauna and even a solarium.

Naze Marine Holiday Park, Essex

Another Parkdean Resort close to the seaside is Naze Marine Holiday Park in Walton-on-the-Naze in Essex, where families of four can stay between May 22 and 25 for £373.

The holiday park is just a couple of minutese walk from the beach where there are a couple of cafes to grab a bite to eat and as for the park itself, guests will be able to enjoy an indoor pool, laser quest and evening entertainment.

Nearby in Walton, guests can also explore one of the longest piers in the country with arcades and bowling.

The Grand Scarborough

Up in the North, you could head to Scarborough and stay at The Grand Scarborough Hotel between May 22 and 25 for just £213.

The hotel is in a great location overlooking the Harbour and South Bay.

Inside, the hotel is themed around time including seasons, months, weeks and days – and even has 52 chimneys!

Cavendish Hotel, Eastbourne

Just the two of you? Head to the Cavendish Hotel in Eastbourne for £283, staying between May 22 and 25.

The hotel is located directly on the beach and features modern swish interiors throughout.

The hotel also has a restaurant and library.

Travelodge Morecambe, Lancashire

For just £271, you could stay at the seaside Travelodge Morecambe between May 22 and 25.

Not only is the hotel located right by the beach, but some rooms have recently been upgraded as well.

The Dolau Inn, New Quay in Wales

Just a two-minute walk from Dolau Beach, you could stay at The Dolau Inn between May 22 and 25 for £124.

All rooms feature a private shower and boast a cosy interior.

In the surrounding area, guests can explore the town as well as other nearby beaches.

Haven Riviere Sands, Cornwall

If you fancy heading to Cornwall, there is still some availability at Haven’s Riviere Sands in Cornwall for three nights between May 22 and 25 from £249 for a family of four.

The holiday park backs onto Towans Beach, which has previously been named the best beach in the UK.

At the park there is also an outdoor pool with a waterslide, indoor pool, entertainment for adults and kids and even a new Wetherspoons pub.

Perran Sands Holiday Park, Cornwall

Also in Cornwall, Perran Sands Holiday Park also has availability for this weekend with a stay between May 22 and 25 for four people costing from £259.

The park is right by Perranporth Beach, which is a top spot for surfing and heading for a scenic walk along the coastal path.

The holiday park also features an indoor pool and a number of spots to grab a bite to eat.

The Royal Boston Hotel by Compass Hospitality, Blackpool

If you are wanting to head to Blackpool, then you can opt to stay at The Royal Boston Hotel this weekend between May 22 and 25, costing from £206 for two people.

The hotel can be found directly on Blackpool’s seafront and is just a five-minute drive from the famous Blackpool Tower.

Each room is well-equipped too, with an en suite, TV, tea and coffee making facilities.

Hele Valley Holiday Park, Ilfracombe

Fancy glamping instead? The head to Hele Valley Holiday Park in Ilfracombe where glamping for two people between May 22 and 23 costs from £180.

Each glamping pod has a bench outside for enjoying meals as well as heating and lighting on the inside.

And the beach is just a five-minute walk away.

West Point Woods, Barrow in Furness

A glamping pod for up to three people at West Point Woods in Barrow in Furness costs from £375 for a stay between May 22 and 25.

This glamping spot is ideal for wildlife lovers as the site is surrounded by Walney Island Nature Reserve.

Guests can also easily reach Earnse Bay if they fancy a day at the beach.

Butlin’s Bognor Regis

If you want a family break with loads to do, then head to Butlin’s in Bognor Regis, with a stay between May 22 and 25 costing £433 for a family of four.

The resort sits right by the beach, which is expansive and a great swimming spot.

In the resort itself, you can expect tonnes of shows and activities, as well as arcades, crazy golf and a huge swimming complex.

West Bay Holiday Park, Dorset

You could stay in a two-bedroom safari tent sleeping up to six people at West Bay Holiday Park in Dorset between May 22 and 25 for £409.

From the holiday park, you can walk to the harbour and beach, which stretches for miles.

And then, as for things to do when onsite, the park has an indoor pool, bike hire and an adventure playground.

Mercure Paignton Hotel, Devon

Looking out onto a green and then the beach and sea, you could stay at the Mercure Paignton Hotel in Devon this weekend from £396 for two people.

From the hotel you can easily explore the town centre as well as the pier, which boasts games, crazy golf, arcades and fish and chips.

Travelodge Aberdeen Central, Scotland

Located near to Aberdeen train station and the ferry terminal, Travelodge Aberdeen Central has stays left for the weekend from just £102.

The Travelodge has everything you would expect including tea and coffee making facilities.

From the hotel, it takes under 30 minutes to walk to the beach where you will find Codona’s funfair.

IF you don’t fancy the faff of an airport this summer, why not pop over to one incredible coastline that’s mere hours away from the UK?

You can get to the beautiful French region of Normandy by ferry or the Channel Tunnel to explore its beaches and pretty fishing villages – so there’s no need to even set foot on a plane.

Follow The Sun’s award-winning travel team on Instagram and Tiktok for top holiday tips and inspiration @thesuntravel.

Airbnb has revealed the trending destinations this summer and for Brits, one spot that is increasing in popularity is Normandy.

It stated that not only is the French countryside in demand, but so are “rural coastal bookings”.

The Normandy region is generally much quieter than other tourist hubs in France like Paris, the Côte d’Azur, or the Dordogne.

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If you’re tempted to visit, here are some places to consider – one Sun Writer discovered “village life” in peaceful Pourville.

She stayed in a beachside boutique hotel called Vue Sur Mer where guests can expect a basket of warm pastries, jams, juice and strong coffee to start the day.

The former fishing village is backed by towering chalk cliffs and has a pebble-sand beach perfect for a picnic, or having a paddle.

Pourville’s scenery even made it into artwork thanks to Claude Monet who painted ‘Cliff Walk at Pourville’ in 1882.

When it comes to sightseeing, a must-see along the Normandy coastline is Mont-Saint-Michel.

For Disney fans, the tidal island is said to have inspired the backdrop for Tangled.

It has a huge abbey at the very top and is surrounded by museums, shops and restaurants.

The island is best explored by foot and when the tide comes in, it’s cut off from the mainland.

Further down the coast, Barfleur is often considered one of the prettiest villages in France.

It’s a traditional Norman fishing port with granite houses and little restaurants that sit around the harbour.

Any fans of seafood will love it as Barfleur is where you can try moules de Barfleur – these are wild mussels which are usually accompanied with crusty bread and a glass of wine.

Or, if you’re after glitz and glamour, then a trip to Deauville could be on the cards.

The seaside town is a classic Norman resort with a huge beach and it even pulls in celebrity visitors – the likes of Clint Eastwood and George Clooney have all been there.

On the beachfront is a huge casino with 300 slot machines as well as roulette and blackjack tables.

Inside is also a cinema, theatre and nightclub.

Its beach, Plage de Deauville, is around 1.2miles long and has around 450 multicoloured umbrellas on the sand.

While they might look like you’re classic beach parasol, you won’t find these anywhere else as they are actually made in Deauville workshops.

Other beaches along the Normandy coast that are considered some of the best include Ecalgrain Bay.

Another is Étretat Beach which has a striking resemblance to Dorset‘s Durdle Door with natural stone arches and deep blue sea on a bright day.

In the summertime, the Normandy coast is sunnier than the UK with an average of 23-24C – a pleasant temperature perfect for exploring.

The best part for British holidaymakers is that they can avoid stressful airport security and simply hop across via the ferry.

From the ports at Poole or Portsmouth, a trip to Cherbourg on the ferry takes between four to five and a half hours.

Routes from Portsmouth to Caen take on average six hours.

Another option is the LeShuttle from Folkestone to Calais, from there, drive south to the Normandy region which takes just under two hours.

TWO major English train stations are set to close as they undergo renovations.

The commuter hubs will be unavailable to the public for 22 days next month as part of the regeneration works.

Both Charing Cross Station and Waterloo East Station in London will not allow travel for a number of weeks over the summer.

The stations’ decades-old tracks and platforms will be given a revamp.

The closures will take place between Sunday, July 26, and Sunday, August 16, as well as on Sunday, May 31, and Sunday, June 7.

There will also be a full weekend closure from Saturday, August 22, to Sunday, August 23, – and again from Saturday, October 10, to Sunday, October 11.

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On these dates, no trains will stop at Charing Cross or Waterloo East, although the Southeastern services will continue throughout the closures.

Trains that usually terminate at Charing Cross will be diverted to London Victoria, London Blackfriars, London Cannon Street or London Bridge. Tickets will be accepted on these alternative routes.

Meanwhile the London Underground service from Charing Cross will run as normal.

The closures will allow a £20million engineering project to be completed, with almost two kilometres of 36-year-old track set to be replaced.

Sections of Charing Cross’s platforms will undergo repairs along with updates to the drainage systems on the tracks.

Structural repairs to the Waterloo East to London Waterloo pedestrian link bridge and the Hungerford Bridge are also required.

Scott Brightwell, train services director at Southeastern Railway, said: “The £20 million investment we are delivering will see 1990s track and platforms upgraded to make journeys safer and more reliable, and Victorian era structures strengthened to remain fit for the future.  

“By consolidating the work into 22‑day closure, supported by preparation and follow‑up weekends, we can complete the work more quickly and with less disruption overall than the alternative options of 60 weekend closures or four to five 9-day closures.”

Urging passengers to “plan ahead and check before they travel”, he added: “We have planned the closure for the summer, when passenger numbers are around 20 per cent lower and schools are closed, to help manage the impact on customers.”

ACROSS the UK this bank holiday weekend, temperatures are set to hit 28C and what better way to enjoy it than heading for a refreshing dip?

Well, the good news for Brits is that there are a ton of lidos reopening this weekend across the country.

Follow The Sun’s award-winning travel team on Instagram and Tiktok for top holiday tips and inspiration @thesuntravel.

Saturday May 23

Lots of lidos will be reopening on Saturday May 23, including some with upgrades.

In Devon, Teignmouth Lido will reopen after being saved from closure by the local community.

Travel Reporter Cyann Fielding who grew up in the area and visited the lido each summer, said: “Teignmouth Lido is more than just a gem on the South West coast; for me, it’s the backdrop of my childhood.

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“For over a decade, my school summer holidays were defined by afternoons spent there with my family.

“With ample patio and sun-drenched patches of grass surrounding the 25-metre crystal clear pool, it was the rare kind of place where parents could relax while kids felt a bit of freedom.”

Swim sessions cost from £8.40 per adult and £5.40 per child.

Also in Devon, Moretonhampstead Lido has recently been upgraded with a new pool lining.

Sessions at the 25-metre, 27C heated pool cost from £4 per child and £5.50 per adult.

In Cornwall, Mount Wise Lido is also reopening and is free to visit.

The lido claims to be “one of the best outdoor swimming complexes in the country” with a 25- metre main pool, fun pool with fountains, stepping stones and awhirlpoolo, and a separate paddling pool.

Riverside Park and Pools in Wallingford will open this weekend as well and is located directly next to a campsite, making it the ideal weekend escape.

Swim sessions cost £7 per person to swim and you can stay in the neighbouring campsite for £35 a night.

Other lidos reopening on Saturday include:

• Letchworth Lido, Hertfordshire
• Hitchin Lido, Hertfordshire
• Aldershot Lido, Hampshire
• Bathurst Pool, Gloucestershire
• Bourne Outdoor Swimming Pool, Lincolnshire
• Clyst Hydon Lido, Devon
• Eversholt Swimming Pool, Bedfordshire
• Finchley Outdoor Lido, London
• Greystoke Lido, Cumbria
• Hayle Lido, Cornwall
• Brightlingsea Lido, Essex
• Salcombe Lido, Devon
• Shap Lido, Cumbria
• Tinside Lido, Devon
• Woodstock Lido, Oxfordshire

Sunday May 24

Three lidos are set to reopen for the season on Sunday.

The first is Chagford Lido, near Dartmoor in Devon, which will celebrate with a barbeque from 2pm.

Having originally opened back in the 1930s, the lido can be found on the banks of the River Teign and is heated to 27C.

There is also a Tea Shed for refreshments and snacks as well as a toddler pool.

You don’t need to book to visit, and sessions cost from £6.50 for an adult swim or £3.50 per child.

Also opening on Sunday in Devon is Dartmouth Lido, which is heated to 28C and stretches 25 metres by 8.5 metres.

There is also a small shop onsite and two-hour sessions cost from £7 per adult and £5 per child.

Over in York, Helmsley Lido – Yorkshire‘s only open air pool – will also open on Sunday.

Sessions cost from £6.25 per adult and £3.95 per child.

What makes the perfect family holiday? Whether you travelled with toddlers, teenagers or as part of a multi-generational group, tell us about the choice of destination and fun activities that made your trip successful, or even special. Where did you go in the UK or Europe, what did you do and what made it work?

The best tip of the week, chosen by Tom Hall of Lonely Planet wins a £200 voucher to stay at a Coolstays property – the company has more than 3,000 worldwide. The best tips will appear in the Guardian Travel section and website.

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IT’S THAT time of year again when, as the weather warms up, the UK’s Blue Flag beaches have been announced.

In total 61 sites, including beaches, a marina and an inland water bathing area have been awarded the Blue Flag for 2026 across the UK.

The Blue Flag award recognises beaches that are clean, safe, and well managed, including whether they haves services like lifeguards, first aid, educational activities and so on.

Several Devon beaches have not been included on the list, after Torbay – where previously five Blue Flag beaches were located – decided to create their own awards system.

North East

Five beaches in the North East were awarded a Blue Flag status, including:

• Whitley Bay South
• Tynemouth Longsands South
• King Edwards Bay
• Blyth South Beach
• Roker Beach

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North West

In the North West one spot was given a Blue Flag status – Liverpool’s Albert and Salthouse docks, which is even the only Blue Flag marina in the UK.

Yorkshire and Humber

In Yorkshire and Humber, three Blue Flag beaches have been named, including one visited by Assistant Travel Editor Sophie Swietochowski:

She said: “If you’re after that typical northern charm, but in a seaside setting, look no further than Whitby.

“From the shoreline, you can admire the lighthouse in the distance, or grab a pew on one of the benches by the marina to watch the boats sailing in and out to sea.

“Don’t leave without swinging by Magpie Cafe for its famous fish and chips (with curry sauce, of course) – it’s widely known for being the best chippy in the area so get there bang on opening time to avoid the queues.”

The other two Blue Flag beaches in Yorkshire and Humber are:

East Midlands

Three beaches in the East Midlands were awarded the Blue Flag status and include:

• Central Beach, Mablethorpe
• Central Beach, Skegness
• Central Beach, Sutton on Sea

East of England

In the East Of England, a total of 15 beaches were awarded a Blue Flag status.

Having explored the area several times, Travel Reporter Alice Penwill said: “After visiting Cromer back in 2024 – my family and I have been back multiple times to enjoy its cute cafes and beautiful beach.

“When the sun is out, Cromer beach is a great place for laying about in the sun, or going for a dip in the sea.

“And for anyone bringing along a furry friend, dogs aren’t allowed on certain sections of the beach, specifically by the pier, but can frolic on the sand further up, just look for the signs.

“Make sure to step off the sand for a few minutes and head to Windows Ice Cream where you can get an enormous soft serve treat from £2.”

Another Blue Flag beach she has visited in the area is Frinton on Sea.

She said: “Not only is Frinton a very pretty spot on the coast, it’s one of the sunniest.

“Along the Essex coastline, Frinton-on-Sea is known for having no noisy arcades, like its more popular neighbour of Clacton.

“I love it for the fact that it has no frills, on the front is just a sweeping sandy beach, the sea and some pretty beach huts too.

“But if you want a bit more excitement, head back to Connaught Avenue for independent shops and boutiques.”

She also recommend visiting Southwold in East Suffolk, commenting on how it takes her back to her childhood family holidays where she’d spend hours running about on the sand and in and out of the sea.

She added: “Its pier is 623 feet long and is dotted with shops, cafes and everyone has to head into the arcade.

“As much as I love the beach, you can’t miss a stroll into town either for its great shops and the Adnams brewery.

“At the other end of town by the harbour is my favourite chippy, the Sole Bay Fish Company.”

Other Blue Flag beaches in the East of England include:

• Albion Walton On The Naze
• Brightlingsea
• Dovercourt Bay
• East Runton
• Felixstowe
• Mundesley
• Sea Palling
• Sheringham
• Shoebury Common
• Thorpe Bay Beach
• Three Shells Beach
• West Runton

South East

A total of 11 beaches were awarded the Blue Flag in the South East this year.

Deputy Travel Editor Kara Godfrey said: “Kent is hardly short of beautiful beaches – and Botany Bay is one of my favourites.

“It can get busy, but being between Margate and Ramsgate means you can easily get to it by a short walk.

“Yet Ramsgate is a great beach to visit as a family due to its size, so you will never be fighting for space.

“It’s also helped by being right in from of the UK’s biggest Wetherspoons (complete with a rooftop beer garden…).”

Other Blue Flag beaches in the South East include:

• Hove Lawns
• Joss Bay
• Marina Beach Hastings
• Minnis Bay
• Rottingdean
• Saltdean
• Sheerness
• Tankerton
• West Wittering Beach

South West

Across the South West, a staggering 24 beaches have been awarded the Blue Flag.

Born in the South West, Travel Reporter Cyann Fielding said: “The South West is bursting with beautiful beaches so it is no surprise that many have been awarded a Blue Flag.

“In Dartmouth in Devon, Blackpool Sands has been awarded a Blue Flag for the third year in a row.

“The privately-owned shingle beach stretches across two-thirds of a mile and is often quite wide, making it a great day out even when busy.

“From the beach you can head kayaking or paddleboarding too.”

Also in Devon, one of Cyann’s more local beaches was awarded a Blue Flag for its 27th year.

She said: “Dawlish Warren is the ultimate beach for families.

“Found on Devon’s south coast, the beach is backed by rolling dunes and fascinating wildlife habitats.

“The 1.5-mile stretch is a safer, more sheltered spot for families, compared to a lot of other beaches in the are, a and you’ll even find -go karts, golf and arcades to have fun in too.”

Sophie added: “Stretching for around three kilometres, you’ll never struggle to find a sunbathing patch at Westward Ho!.

“The main beach starts at the busy end of town, where you’ll have no trouble finding a bucket and spade, before blending into the much quieter Northam Burrows Beach, backed by a national park and an excellent links golf course.

“Keep wandering towards the northern tip to find Pebbleridge Kitchen, a tiny cafe that sells fresh crab sandwiches.”

Sophie has also been to Porthminster in St Ives, Cornwall.

She said: “On a sunny day, the white sands and gloriously blue seas of Porthminster could be mistaken for the shores of a Caribbean island.

“It’s not the largest of beaches, but it’s at the quieter end of town, away from the main hustle and bustle of St Ives.

“Pedn Olva, an excellent pub with rooms, is just a short walk away.

“Try the local ales and “crabby fries”, smothered in white and brown meat and drenched in a thermidor sauce.”

She added: “I visited Widemouth Bay with my family and the dogs several years back, on a sunny April afternoon, and we had the entire sands to ourselves.

“The sunset was absolutely spectacular – take advantage of the tall grassy dunes behind the beach for the best viewpoint.

“There are some lovely walks along here, too.”

And another Blue Flag spot is one of her all-time favourite beaches in Cornwall.

She said: “Polzeath is a glorious stretch of golden sands backed by fuss-free restaurants serving hearty toasties and proper Mr Whippy ice cream.

“Make sure to swing by Surfside Polzeath, a rum bar that spills out onto the beach and serves some punchy cocktails – it stays open until 11pm, with people dancing on the sands once the sun sets.”

Other Blue Flag Beaches in the South West include:

• Canford Cliffs
• Croyde Bay
• Exmouth Beach
• Sidmouth Town
• Carbis Bay
• Challaborough Bay
• Crooklets
• Durley Chine
• Fisherman’s Walk
• Gyllyngvase
• Highcliffe
• Porthmeor
• Porthtowan
• Sandbanks
• Shore Road
• Summerleaze
• Swanage Central Beach
• Trevone Bay

TAKING the family for a summer staycation this year doesn’t have to break the bank.

We all know the famous UK hotspots where you can barely see the sand for the crowds and prices have hiked to eye-watering levels.

But there’s plenty of quieter UK towns and villages to discover that are also more affordable.

Our Sun Travel team have picked their favourite, lesser-known staycation spots – with just as many things to see and do, beautiful views, and far less tourists.

From Game of Thrones-themed castle hotels in Northern Ireland, to Cornwall holidays without the crowds – here’s our top picks for a summer 2026 staycation.

Stamford, Lincolnshire

Head of Travel, Lisa Minot

The Cotswolds may attract millions each year keen to explore the pretty villages of honey-coloured stone, but Stamford in the Lincolnshire Wolds is a great alternative that won’t have the same tourist queues.

The town is built from mellow limestone too, with narrow alleyways, hidden courtyards and beautifully-preserved buildings.

Shopaholics will love the independent boutiques and antique shops as well as the weekly Friday market.

It’s also close to Burghley House, a grand Elizabethan estate on the edge of the town with a massive park that’s famous for hosting the annual horse trials. Stay at the Candlesticks Hotel & Restaurant with rooms from £97 a night in May.

Holme, North Norfolk

Travel Reporter, Jenna Stevens

My home county of Norfolk is becoming an increasingly popular pick for a UK holiday. Crowded beaches, cars clogging up the country roads, sometimes it can be hard to enjoy a stay along the coast – especially in peak summer.

But as a local, I know of all the quiet spots that tourists skip over – the kind where you’re more likely to come across the odd dog-walker than get caught up in heaving crowds.

Holme-next-the-Sea is a village on the North Norfolk coast, often overlooked for larger resorts like Hunstanton or Cromer.

Not only is Holme less busy, but its beach is, in my opinion, one of the most beautiful in Norfolk. Here you’ll find gentle waves lapping over flat golden sands, plus beautiful pine forests and rolling dunes as your backdrop.

Walk far enough east along the shores and you’ll reach Holme Bird Observatory – where there’s a large glossy pond, a cafe and gift shop to enjoy.

For a hot drink and a bite to eat, you can’t beat The White Horse at Holme. This traditional pub has a sun trap of a beer garden with a cosy fire pit, plus its own rustic bakery with delicious pastries, sandwiches and coffee – give their famous pain au chocolat a go.

It’s fair to say this pub and its charming bakery have put Holme on the map. However, people travel miles just to grab a pastry and a coffee here, only to drive over to neighbouring towns for the day – and they’re missing out on one of the most picturesque villages in Norfolk.

Norfolk Hideaways offer seaside cottage breaks in Holme-next-the-Sea from £41pp/pn.

Herm Island, the Channel Islands

Head of Travel: Digital, Caroline McGuire

Herm isn’t STRICTLY in the UK as it’s actually a Channel Island in the Bailiwick of Guernsey, but it’s a British Isle, so I’m going to bend the rules slightly and get it on this list. 

Because it really is utterly magical and a total ‘hidden gem‘. 

The tiny island, which takes about 20 minutes to walk across, can be reached via a 15-minute boat ride from Guernsey. 

Cars are banned and groceries must be ordered several days in advance, which really adds to the feeling of adventure. 

Winding paths lead to stunning white sand beaches including Shell Beach, which wouldn’t look out of place in the Caribbean.

While incredibly remote at the top of the tiny island, it features an excellent beach bar serving Aperol Spritzes and jugs of rum punch. 

Dolphins are regularly spotted in the turquoise waters and have been known to swim in among the bathers on a summer’s day, while seals lounge on the rocks offshore.

There is a surprising range of places to dine out on the island, given only 85 people live there. It has two pubs and a restaurant in the only hotel, so you can dine on everything from smash burgers to fish and chips, oysters to gnocchi and fillet steak.

In terms of places to stay, there’s three options – the White House hotel, some self-catered apartments or in fully-equipped tents that sleep up to eight people.

Everything gets booked up in peak season, but in the shoulder seasons there is usually plenty of space and when we visited in early May, we had blue skies every day.

This month, there is availability for self-catered apartments from £34pp a night and tents available from £31.80pp a night. 

I can’t recommend the place enough, several years after our trip and we still talk about the magic of Herm. There’s no place quite like it. 

Crackington Haven, Cornwall

Deputy Travel Editor, Kara Godfrey

Trying to find a quiet spot in Cornwall during the summer might seem like an impossible task.

But the tiny village of Crackington Haven is where you’ll join the locals with far fewer crowds.

Its nearest train station is nearly an hour away (Bodmin Parkway) which keeps lots of the tourists from visiting.

The tiny beach cove is loved by surfers, although the rolling green hills above are also worth a hike.

When you need to warm up there is a tiny cafe serving hot drinks and snacks, although for a heartier meal at the Coombe Barton Inn pub.

Most of the fish options are caught locally although there are other dishes like curries and burgers to choose from.

Don’t expect to find any hotels here, with the majority of stays being holiday home rentals.

Instead head back to the pub, which has six rooms starting from £100 a night.

Minster Lovell, Cotswolds

Deputy Travel Editor, Kara Godfrey

If you want an afternoon where you feel like you’ve stepped into the Famous Five, then you need to head to the Minster Lovell ruins in the Cotswolds.

Just outside the town of Witney, the historic ruins of Minster Lovell Hall are perfect to run around in.

They date back to 1430 and was built by one of the richest men in England at the time.

Now, it is popular with local teens wanting to get away from the town, and is great for a picnic spot too.

It is even right on the River Windrush, if you fancy a dip to cool down in.

There’s a few holiday rentals to stay at but you just down the road is Minster Mill, a five star hotel with spas, live bands and supper clubs. Rooms start from £140 a night.

Sandgate, Kent

Deputy Travel Editor, Kara Godfrey

The village of Sandgate is overlooked by its busier neighbours of Folkestone and Hythe, but is just as worthy of a seaside day trip.

Its promenade is much quieter than other beaches, having just a few cafes along the front.

I recommend getting a coffee at Orchard Lane Coffee House, followed by a piece of cake at Mr Whippet’s.

You’ll have to gaze at Sandgate Castle from the outside as it is closed to the public.

There’s vintage shops and clothes stores all run by local sellers, as well as the fantastic wine bar John Dory’s who often have themed dining pop ups.

The best spot to stay is The Famous Ship Inn with rooms from £110 and a delicious menu of pub classics including pies and stews.

Makes sure to visit on Thursdays for a great pub quiz too.

Mousehole, Cornwall

Assistant Travel Editor, Sophie Swietochowski

Out of towners visiting Cornwall tend to flock to the coastal regions of Padstow and St Ives.

Beautiful as they are, the crowds can be heaving in summer time – and if you haven’t secured a restaurant reservation well in advance then you’re pretty much stuffed.

That’s why I love the charming village of Mousehole. Although it’s very small, so can feel busy in peak summer times, it’s got nothing of a touristy feel to it.

If you’re driving, just ensure you pick a holiday home a little out of the main hub as cars can easily get stuck in the narrow lanes. Everything is wonderfully walkable, though. 

Make sure to swing by the Rock Pool Cafe which occupies a prime spot on the cliff edge so you can tuck into seafood sarnies while soaking up views of the waves.

They serve an excellent hot choccie, too – essentially warm milk with a plate of white, milk or dark chocolate shards that you swirl in yourself.

The cobbled streets are lovely to potter along, with higgledy-piggledy houses converted into quirky art shops and boutiques. 

Explore the craggy cave at the southern end of the village or stroll along its little beach which is littered with tattered boats still used by local fishermen.

Booking.com has cottages in Mousehole available from £80 per night,

Tenby, Wales

Head of Travel, Lisa Minot

Tenby has been dubbed the St Ives of Wales – as it is similar to its Cornish cousin with both sitting on small, rocky peninsulas set around a central harbour.

While thousands flock to St Ives each summer, Tenby offers a quieter alternative that still has gorgeous beaches within walking distance of the town centre.

And Tenby’s brightly coloured, pastel houses overlooking the water are also a double for the Cornish resort and it has a very similar thriving art scene with lots of galleries to explore.

To really escape the crowds, head to Caldey Island, a 20-minute boat ride away that is owned by Cistercian monks featuring a medieval Abbey.

Then head to Priory Beach or the clifftop paths toward the lighthouse for a peaceful but picturesque stroll.

Keep your eyes peeled on the boat journey to and from the island as it is known for its puffins between April and July.

Stay at Cottage Court Hotel for a budget-friendly option with rooms often under £60 near North Beach.

St Pauls Walden, Hertfordshire

Assistant Travel Editor, Sophie Swietochowski

Having spent my entire life in and around Hertfordshire, I can vouch for its beauty – miles of rolling hills, sparse farmyards with grazing wildlife and quaint tea rooms whose window displays feature stacks of homebaked brownies and cakes.

There are some villages and gems within the county that remain so off-grid, I’ve only just discovered them myself.

One of those is St Pauls Walden, a tiny North Hertfordshire village that encompasses the best of the British countryside. 

It’s home to some gorgeous rural walks through thick forests where you’re unlikely to spot another soul – that includes a loop past St Pauls Walden Bury, whose immaculate 18th century gardens are pristine.

The glorious stately home was actually the birthplace of the late Queen Mother, who spent many of her childhood days frollicking around in the lakes and under the pergolas.

The home and gardens are open to the public on certain days and cost £8 to visit.

Swing by The Strathmore Arms, a proper countryside pub that serves fuss-free grub, cooked well.

Then check into the nearby Tewinbury Farm Hotel to fully immerse yourself in Hertfordshire’s nature, with rooms from £159 per night.

The rural retreat hosts regular supper parties at the on site allotment during summer, whipping up feats with ingredients sourced from the grounds, plus there’s cooking classes and cinema nights.

Grantchester, Cambridgeshire

Travel Reporter, Alice Penwill

When visiting Cambridgeshire, most will flock to the city of Cambridge, and why wouldn’t they? It has beautiful colleges, winding shopping streets and is renowned for its punting.

But just down the road is the village of Grantchester which is usually left off the county’s must-visit tick list.

Any fans of the TV show by the same name should definitely pay it a visit as it has all the recognisable haunts there from the wisteria-clad vicarage to the church and The Green Man Pub.

My favourite place in the village though, is the Orchard Garden which is literally set in an apple orchard.

There’s plenty of picnic tables, fold out chairs to relax in, not to mention it’s famous for its historic guests like the poet Rupert Brooke and novelist Virginia Woolf.

But what I was most interested in was the baked treats – like the homemade scone with jam and clotted cream which you can enjoy for £5.40.

Afterwards, take a stroll through Grantchester Meadows either along the river, or the pathway which will lead you into the city.

If you want to stay nearby, head to the Travelodge in Cambridge which has rooms from £37 per night. From there, it’s a 15-minute drive, or an hour’s stroll away.

Ballygally, Northern Ireland

Travel Reporter, Jenna Stevens

Those visiting Northern Ireland often flock to Belfast or The Giant’s Causeway – but there are plenty of beautiful villages along the Antrim coast that are well worth a visit.

Ballygally is a top pick for fans of quaint, pretty villages, sea swimming – and the series Game of Thrones.

This quiet village has a crescent-shaped beach backed by quaint cottages and rolling green farmland, where you’ll spot sheep peacefully grazing.

Here, you’re only minutes from Carnfunnock Country Park, which has a hedge maze and adventure playground for kids.

Drive 35 minutes further out to Glenariff Forest Park for mystical waterfall walks and dramatic forests with towering evergreen trees and plenty of wildlife.

In the centre of the village you’ll find Ballygally Castle Hotel, Ireland’s only 17th-century castle with rooms you can still stay in.

The hotel offer a Game of Thrones-themed afternoon tea for £36pp, with treats like Jon Snow cakes and a Dothraki Trifle with Mini Dragon’s Egg.

Plus the carved wooden door to their castle-themed restaurant was used in the series, too.

In fact, it’s one of nine which you can tick off on your travels around Northern Ireland with a dedicated Journey of Doors trail passport, which you can grab from reception.

Ballygally Castle Hotel has rooms from £120 per night.

Paultons Park, Hampshire

Head of Travel: Digital, Caroline McGuire

Yes, Paultons theme park in the New Forest gets more than a million visitors a year, so it can’t really be classed as a ‘best-kept secret.’ 

But I am always stunned to learn how few people know it exists. Or who think that it’s only Peppa Pig World, when that land is only a fraction of what is on offer. 

I’ve been taking my son since he was 2, when we were all about Peppa Pig World, and the number of rides for kids under the age of 10 is such a gamechanger. 

He is in year 2 now, so has grown out of Peppa and moved on to the entry-level coasters, of which they have several.

It has long been the park of choice for younger families, but in the last few years they have been investing heavily in attractions for older children, including Valgard, a viking-themed land opening this weekend, that features two rollercoasters and a swing ride.

But it’s not just the rides. 

They have short queues, incredible customer service, spotless bathrooms, and lovely attention to detail. For instance, they have those small rides you see outside supermarkets that cost a quid – and they’re free to use at Paultons.

Also, they don’t charge for parking, unlike several other big theme parks.
It’s little things like that which make all the difference between a good theme park and a great one. 

Advance day tickets from £46.75 per person with children under 1m getting free entry.

For accommodation, try the Green Hill Farm Holiday Village in Landford just 10 minutes drive away.

The new system in in place for anyone going to countries like France, Portugal, Spain or Italy

Nearly three out of five UK holidaymakers travelling to Europe this year expect delays thanks to a new rule.

There is widespread concern over the EU’s entry-exit system (EES), a new survey suggests. Almost half of respondents to the poll commissioned by travel company Booking.com said they fear missing flights because of the border checks.

EES involves people from third-party countries such as the UK having their fingerprints registered and photograph taken to enter the Schengen Area, which consists of 29 European countries, mainly in the EU. For most UK travellers, the process is done at foreign airports.

Representative body Airports Council International recently reported that EES was causing delays of up to three hours, with airports in Spain, Portugal, France and Italy among the worst affected. More than 100 easyJet passengers missed a flight from Milan Linate to Manchester last month because of delays at passport desks caused by the ramp up of EES.

The survey indicated that 56% of UK travellers plan to arrive at airports earlier than usual in an attempt to avoid disruption, with 12% intending to arrive at least four hours before departure. More than half of respondents who have travelled to the EU since the introduction of EES said they experienced delays during their journey, while 43% said they were not delayed.

Booking.com advised families travelling to Europe during the May half-term break to ensure their passports are eligible for their dates, and keep items such as a portable phone charger and any medication in hand luggage. Ryan Pearson, regional manager for the UK and Ireland at Booking.com, said: “May half-term is a key moment in the travel calendar, and we know many people are feeling anxious about how the new entry-exit system could impact their trip.

“We want to help travellers feel informed and prepared before they leave, whether that’s checking travel documents in advance or packing the right essentials in hand luggage in case of longer queues. Changes to the way we travel can understandably feel daunting, but we’re already seeing that many journeys are running smoothly. The key is preparation.”

Advantage Travel Partnership, a network of independent travel agents, reported earlier this month that demand for holidays in Greece has surged since the country revealed on April 17 it will not impose EES requirements on UK travellers this summer. The south-eastern European country’s market share of UK holiday bookings rose from 7.7% in mid-April to 9.98% by the end of the month, Advantage Travel Partnership said.

EES was first introduced in October last year, with its roll out ramped up on April 10. EU rules currently allow the checks to be temporarily halted to avoid queues at peak periods.

The Booking.com survey of 2,000 UK adults was conducted by research company Opinium between May 8-12.

REMOTE, rugged, and refreshingly underrated, Montenegro doesn’t scream and shout for your attention.

Everyone goes wild for Croatia’s polished reputation when planning their summer travels, but that comes with a conveyor belt of tourists pottering through various old towns and restaurants lining the Adriatic Sea.

An understated alternative, Montenegro is every bit as beautiful, but far less busy.

Explore further and you’ll find an abundance of great food and adventure without needing to reserve any sun loungers or doing serious damage to your bank balance.

Little but lovely, this country in the Balkans is one of Europe’s most unsung, and you should go before others catch on.

On the way through various towns, you won’t find any attempts to cater for mass tourism, a testament to their “Polako, Polako” approach to life, which translates as “slowly, slowly”.

WAIL OF A TIME

I drove Irish Route 66 with deserted golden beaches and pirate-like islands

TEMPTED?

Tiny ‘Bali of Europe’ town with stunning beaches, €3 cocktails and £20 flights

Nothing reflects that more than McDonald’s attempt to crack the market in the country.

The fast-food giants opened a restaurant that was so unsuccessful they quickly closed it — the people here prefer to eat locally.

Surprisingly, while the culture and people are beautiful, warm and welcoming, they’re far from the standout feature of this stunning country.

Variety is perhaps the word that describes it better than any other.

In a matter of hours, you can go from ski slopes to beach sun lounger — and that’s without considering its stunning lakes.

Montenegro is not somewhere you go to sit still for a week, although you could. It’s somewhere you must explore.

For me, the best way to ease into the “Polako Polako” way of life was on a boat trip through Lake Skadar.

Getting there is an experience in itself. Winding along one-track roads, we arrive in the village of Rijeka Crnojevica.

Clambering aboard a local’s traditional wooden boat, we glide silently along narrow channels lined with towering reeds.

As we emerge into the open water, the lake reveals its true scale, a shimmering body of water framed by the dramatic, jagged peaks of the Albanian Alps on one side and the rolling green hills of Montenegro on the other.

Keeping our eyes peeled — it’s a sanctuary for more than 280 species of birds — we attempt to spot the rare Dalmatian pelican, known to perch on the ruins of the 19th-century Lesendro Fortress.

The rare bird evades us, although we do spot a lone heron and plenty of other birds chirp overhead.

Looking at the almost turquoise waters, you see colours you would expect in the Maldives or Australia — not somewhere less than a three-hour Jet2 flight from Stansted.

The lake tour is around two and a half hours.

For couples, it’s an easy win: Relaxed, scenic, and just enough activity to feel like you’ve done something with your day.

After the cruise, a simple lunch of freshly prepared local fish rounds things off, and every bite tastes as fresh as the water we’ve been floating through.

That sense of authenticity carries through to the food more broadly, and nowhere is that clearer than at one of the country’s traditional olive farms.

Moric Olive Farm on the Lustica Peninsula is a perfect example and the journey there takes us past wild pomegranate trees, dry stone walls and into the silver-green olive groves.

We are welcomed by Ilija Moric, whose family has tended the trees for eight generations.

His passion is obvious as he takes us through the farm’s history, showing us the contrast between the ancient stone mill where donkeys once turned the heavy wheels to the shiny, modern organic production they use today.

If Lake Skadar is about slowing down, Montenegro’s vast black mountains are where the country comes to life.

Paved roads give way to rugged tracks, and the scenery becomes more dramatic with every turn, revealing sweeping viewpoints, scattered churches perched in improbable locations, and a sense of isolation that feels both exciting and grounding.

Exploring this landscape on foot, stopping to take in the silence or to light a candle and say a prayer in a small, weathered church, adds a layer of depth to the experience.

Rarely does a destination manage to balance contrast so well, moving seamlessly between rustic and refined, active and relaxed, without ever feeling disjointed, and it’s that consistency of variety that makes Montenegro so worth visiting.

Our base was the 4H Hyatt Regency Kotor Bay Resort, set right on the edge of the bay.

There’s an underground tunnel connecting the hotel with its private shingle beach, and the hotel itself features two pools including a vast, heated infinity pool overlooking the bay.

There’s three restaurants on site but it is just a 15-minute drive to the medieval maze of Kotor’s Old Town.

For couples searching for a summer escape that delivers on scenery, activity and atmosphere without the crowds or price tag of more established hotspots, Montenegro makes a strong case as the quieter, more affordable alternative to Croatia.

Summer holidays this year are set to look a bit unusual for Brits, with travellers looking to find ‘certainty’ and ‘safety’ before they book a trip amid ongoing global turmoil

Holidaymakers are facing some big changes this summer, with more and more Brits hesitant to book their getaways amid ongoing uncertainty.

New temporary rules have been brought in that allow airlines to merge or cancel flights in the face of potential fuel shortages over the next few months. The guidance means that an airlines which run multiple flights to the same destination in one day could merge these flights to save on fuel.

This would act as a kind of contingency in the face of the ongoing ripple effects from the Iran-US war, and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz – a narrow waterway through which one fifth of the world’s oil passes. These new proposals would ensure that airlines won’t be penalised for merging routes, to try and keep the number of cancellations to a minimum – and they will retain any landing or takeoff slots.

READ MORE: Families must ‘pay for plane seats’ or face being split as fuel crisis threatens holidays

But this is not the only recent signal that changes are en route in the travel industry. A major lawsuit issued successfully by a holidaymaker over a lack of sun loungers at his resort might on the surface not appear to be a landmark moment, but experts tell the Mirror that it indicates a crucial change in attitude from travellers, who are determined to ensure “certainty” when booking a trip, and demand value for money amid the backdrop of international tensions, reactive financial markets, and the cost of living continuing to bite.

The Mirror takes a look at all the ways in which Brit’s approach to holidays looks to be changing this summer, from new-found hesitancy to visit the US, all the way to a surge in staycations, amid fears of fuel uncertainty.

No more ‘dawn dash’ for sun loungers

A landmark lawsuit brought by a German holidaymaker against his tour operator after he and his family were unable to secure sun loungers during their trip to the Greek island of Kos marks a major change on the horizon. The man travelled to the Greek island with his wife and two kids, paying €7,186 (£6,211) for a package holiday – but other guests at the resort relentlessly ‘reserved’ sun loungers using towels, meaning he and his family were unable to find a space.

David Eggert, 48, from Dusseldorf, said “it was a big hotel, very fancy, with about 400 loungers. And all 400 loungers had towels on them. The people were not actually using the loungers, and the guests went into town or went back to bed and slept.”

He said he believes it is a “very, very important ruling” that the judges in Hanover found in his favour, saying that though the tour operator did not run the hotel itself, they had a duty to make sure there is a “reasonable” number of sun loungers in proportion to guests. “When the holiday season starts in June and July and people face the same problem, they will say: ‘Look, somebody sued a tour operator over this. I’ll do the same’,” he claimed, “If thousands of holidaymakers start suing travel companies, the costs will run into the millions”.

Hotels throughout Europe are reportedly cracking down on the practice of visitors claiming sunbeds with towels or other personal belongings. One holiday camp operator in France is said to have introduced an alarm system where a horn is used on two occasions throughout the day. Anyone who isn’t using their claimed lounger at that time loses it – with their items popped to lost property.

“The recent sun lounger lawsuit may sound minor, but it actually reflects a major change in traveler expectations,” travel expert Declan Somers, CEO of Mobal, tells us. “People now expect the operational reality of a holiday to match the experience being marketed online. After years of cancellations, delays, and travel instability, tolerance for avoidable friction has dropped sharply.”

He adds that the “travel companies that will win big in 2026 are those that focus on reducing uncertainty, managing expectations honestly, and making the travel experience feel controlled, from booking to return.”

Fellow travel expert, Alexandra Dubakova, CMO of Free Tour, echoes these sentiments. “The recent legal victory for the traveler who sued sun loungers is a turning point. It is something that some tourists considered funny and a slightly annoying part of the holiday experience. People had somehow accepted it as a cultural quirk of resort life, and the court ruling changed that. It categorized a lack of facilities as a contractual defect.

“The ruling sets a precedent for tour operators as they can no longer sell a vibe or sunny dream. They need to sell specific and functional inventory. If you advertise a 500-room resort with only 50 loungers, you are now legally liable for a ‘diminished experience’. As a result, we expect hotels to implement strict booking systems to avoid legal issues.”

Merged flights chaos

Dubakova explains that the new rules proposed to limit flight cancellations through mergers might be a necessary evil for airlines to save fuel, but it comes with some downsides for tourists.

“The decision by the government to allow airlines to merge flights and cancel them is, as they say, a double-edged sword. From the airline’s point of view, it is a necessary measure to save costs. Flying near-empty planes just to keep airport slots is a financial disaster and a waste, given the current fuel shortage.

“Unfortunately, for travellers, this means inconsistency. Air travel is about to become more like bus travel. You might book a 10:00 AM flight and get merged into a 2:00 PM one. On the brighter side, it will prevent the last-minute chaos since airlines consolidate two weeks out.”

Before the conflict, Europe as a whole had about 37 days’ supply of available. Now, this is likely to have dropped to 30 days, with the International Energy Agency (IEA) warning that 23 days is the critical point at which some airports would run out of fuel.

As airlines merge flights to conserve fuel, families who booked together may find themselves rebooked onto replacement aircraft where they are scattered across the cabin. Notably, there is no UK law that requires children to be seated with their parents on a plane. Airlines can legally separate even those under five from their parents, although this would be against Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) guidelines.

The CAA says: ‘Young children and infants who are accompanied by adults should ideally be seated in the same seat row as the adult. Where this is not possible, children should be separated by no more than one seat row from accompanying adults. This is because the speed of an emergency evacuation may be affected by adults trying to reach their children.” “

If airlines start consolidating flights, a family of four ‘may be rebooked onto the same replacement flight but not necessarily seated together,” Somers warned.

Brits swerving the US to avoid ‘friction’

Long a popular destination for British holidaymakers, data from the World Travel and Tourism Council suggests that tourists from the UK are avoid booking a holiday to the US amid political tensions – with the country the only one predicted to “see a decline in international visitor spending last year.”

Somers explains: “I’m seeing a noticeable shift in how people view long-haul travel to destinations like the U.S. The hesitation is less about one specific political issue and more about accumulated friction. Think of tougher border perceptions, social tension, unpredictable airport experiences, and the feeling that international travel currently requires more emotional energy than before. Travellers today want journeys that feel smooth and manageable, not just exciting.”

“Yes, tourists are avoiding the US,” Dubakova adds, “which was among the top three vacation spots for Brits. The political atmosphere is negatively impacting the experience of tourists, making them feel unsafe. We are getting twice as many inquiries about Japan and Scandinavia because their political situation is more stable. Unfortunately, it seems the US is losing its automatic status as a preferred summer holiday destination for Brits.”

Rise in ‘staycations’

Brits are choosing to book holidays within the UK because they fundamentally want to feel secure in their investment, Somers explains. “What I’m seeing this summer is not people abandoning travel; it’s travellers becoming far more focused on certainty and operational reliability. Rising fuel concerns and the possibility of airlines merging or cutting flights are pushing many Brits toward UK holidays, not because they suddenly prefer domestic travel, but because it feels logistically safer. Travellers are no longer choosing purely on destination appeal; they are increasingly evaluating how vulnerable a trip is to disruption, rerouting, or cancellation.”

Dubakova agrees, explaining that it’s a way of maintaining certainty and ‘control’. “With the current fear of fuel shortages, Brits have opted for staycations and holidays in the UK based on predictability. People are conducting a risk assessment before planning their holiday. If they book a vacation in the UK, there will be fewer factors that they cannot control. They won’t be worried about being stranded by a sudden surge in airfare- fuel surcharges, or a fuel-related flight cancellation.”

THE sun is making more of an appearance and the temperature is warming up, so there couldn’t be a more perfect time than now to book a camping holiday.

And what better place to go to than a campsite that is right by the UK’s best beach?

Follow The Sun’s award-winning travel team on Instagram and Tiktok for top holiday tips and inspiration @thesuntravel. 

Henry’s Campsite is family-run and can be found at the most southerly point of Cornwall and some visitors have even said it feels like being in the ‘Caribbean‘.

On the site, there are a variety of different pitches including ones with a sea view.

Each has an electrical hookup, with some also surrounded by exotic plants.

GO SEA IT

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

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As for facilities, the campsite has four showers, seven toilets, hot water, washing up facilities, a large washing machine and the showers cost 40p for three minutes.

For some quick essentials, there’s an onsite shop too that sells BBQ charcoal and even local cider.

Each pitch also comes with bricks, in case you want to create a firepit during the warm summer evenings.

To book, keen campers will need to email Henry’s Campsite directly with as many details as possible to secure a spot.

For those who would opt for glamping over camping, there’s the option to book the Bell Tent which comes with either a double bed and single beds, a lamp, rug, and a trunk.

The seaside campsite and its location is such a hit with travellers that it’s even been said to look like it belongs elsewhere.

One visitor wrote on Tripadvisor: “A campsite with a real difference – designed with thought, flair, and so many little touches that make you smile.

“We stayed on the 16th and 17th of September when the wind was howling and the rain pouring down, yet the ambience around the site (especially the main facilities) transported us to the Caribbean!”

Another called it an “outstanding site… such a gem I don’t want to share it!”

Adding to its beauty is the fact that it’s under half an hour away from Kynance Cove.

The beach was recently named the 26th best beach in Europe, according to Europe’s Best Beaches 2026 awards – and was the only one in England to make the list.

The beach is known for its soft white sand and bright blue waters – and it’s also one of the warmest stretches of coastline in the UK.

Aside from beaches, guests nearby can visit Lizard Village – it’s a great spot to grab a bite to eat whether that be the seaside staple fish and chips, to Cornish pasties or a cream tea.

The fishing village of Cadgwith Cove known for its pretty thatched cottages and shingle beach is just three miles away.

The warning comes as millions of Brits prepare for peak holiday season

British families arranging summer holidays are being advised to double-check this before travelling or face last-minute disruptions that could jeopardise their plans.

HM Passport Office has issued a new alert to households submitting passport applications together, warning that a straightforward error when posting documents could delay the procedure. In guidance published online, the body stated families and couples should submit all supporting paperwork in one envelope when making multiple applications. Authorities emphasised this is especially vital where identical documentation – such as birth or marriage certificates – is required for more than one person.

The department said: “Linking the right documents for multiple applications can help avoid delays.”

Straightforward measure that could prevent weeks of waiting

According to the official guidance, applicants should place all paperwork in a sturdy envelope and clearly mark each application reference number on the front, above the address.

Families are also informed they can post their documents to any of the addresses supplied, even if individual applicants received different submission instructions.

However, there is one critical condition: if anyone in the group requires their identity verified, documents must not be dispatched until this stage is completed. Applicants will receive an email confirming when the Passport Office is prepared to accept paperwork.

Why this is important right now

The alert comes as millions of Britons gear up for the peak holiday season, when demand for passports typically rockets.

Official government guidance states that standard UK passport applications usually take up to three weeks, though this can take longer if documents are missing or incorrectly submitted.

The UK Government advises travellers to apply well in advance of any planned trips and to check passport validity rules for their destination, particularly for travel to the EU, where stricter expiry and issue-date requirements apply post-Brexit.

The risk of expensive travel chaos

Failing to follow the correct procedure could mean applications are separated or delayed while officials attempt to match documents to the right person.

This, in turn, risks passports failing to arrive on time, potentially resulting in missed flights, cancelled holidays and hefty rebooking charges.

With overseas travel continuing to bounce back strongly, officials are urging families not to leave anything to chance.

The Passport Office said planning ahead and following the correct steps allows travellers to “plan ahead with confidence” – and avoid unnecessary stress just weeks before departure. Further details can be found here.

MAY half-term is almost here and if you’re looking for a fun way to fill the days, there are a wide range of new theme park rides open across the UK.

Whether your little one is a thrill seeker or a Paw Patrol fan, you won’t be stuck for something to entertain them.

A number of new rides and attractions will be open across the UK’s biggest theme parks during the school break, including nine new additions.

Some of these exciting worlds and rollercoasters are already open to customers.

And there are even themed rooms available at some of these sites for the full experience.

So get planning now for a thrilling and memorable half term break.

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Alton Towers

The world’s first Bluey rollercoaster, Bluey the Ride: Here Come The Grannies!, opened at Alton Towers’ CBeebies Land at the end of March.

This kid-friendly coaster features Bluey and Bingo dressed as Janet and Rita, a fun call-back to fan-favourite episode, and you can even book a Bluey-themed room at the park’s hotel this half term.

Blackpool Pleasure Beach

Blackpool Pleasure Beach will open its £8.72 million gyro swing ride Aviktas this Thursday (May 21).

Measuring a whopping 138 feet, the ride will be the tallest of its kind in the UK.

Chessington World of Adventures Resort

Chessington recently opened its highly-anticipated PAW Patrol land, which features four exciting new rides, and also has themed rooms available nearby.

Chase’s Mountain Mission is a rollercoaster suitable for young kids, while Skye’s Helicopter Heroes takes kids on a high-flying mission, and Marshall’s Firetruck Rescue lets kids take a ride on a shiny red truck, and Zuma’s Hovercraft Adventure offers the UK’s first “drifter” ride.

Crealy

Crealy in Devon recently opened an 80-foot drop tower called Pirates’ Plummet last month.

Previously located in Paultons Park under the name Magma, it has been rebuilt at Crealy, where the inverting air race ride Rotor is also set to open.

Paultons Park

And Paultons Park is not at a loss for attractions, with the new themed land Valgard: Realm of the Vikings officially opening its gates today (Saturday, May 16).

The exciting new land will feature new rides, Drakon, the park’s first inverting rollercoaster with a dramatic vertical lift and Vild Swing, which will swing riders 39 feet into the air.

WANDERING through the garden of Wastwater Cottage, the only sounds I hear are birdsong, the occasional bleat from a Herdwick lamb and the brook at the end of the garden.

The 15th-century four-bedroom farmhouse is the perfect pick for an off-grid break in the British countryside.

My partner Owain and I had initially come to the Lake District with the ambitious plan of tackling some of the biggest mountains in the national park.

But upon arriving in the Cumbrian village of Boot, we were immediately sidetracked.

On our doorstep were two fantastic pubs — The Boot and Brook House — as well as a gift shop and the oldest working water mill in the UK.

Our accommodation was via Bridge End Farm Cottages, which has several luxury self-catering homes in the Eskdale Valley — one of the UK’s best Dark Sky spots.

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Our cottage featured rear doors on to a garden, which meant twinkling stars could be easily admired at night.

And each morning we would tuck into breakfast croissants outside as we watched birds of prey hunting on the mountain in front of us.

Inside were stacks of boardgames, as well as Sky TV and a grand piano.

But the highlight of the property was undoubtedly its location.

From our doorstep, we could embark on dozens of walks over the Western Fells.

These include one from spectacular Wastwater lake, the deepest in England, to Stanley Ghyll waterfall — or another up England’s highest mountain, Scafell Pike.

We started our weekend by following the brook down to the River Esk, walking through luscious green forests that are home to native red squirrels.

Children will be sure to love the stepping stones across to the opposite bank.

Of a warm summer’s day, there are also dozens of natural swimming pools to cool off in after a day exploring.

If you head in the opposite direction from the cottage, you can take a footpath up to the ancient White Moss stone circle and enjoy spectacular views of Scafell Pike — without the challenging four-hour hike up to its summit.

En route, we passed hundreds of the Herdwick sheep that live on the mountains year-round.

It turns out this hardy breed was saved from decline by Peter Rabbit author Beatrix Potter, who bred her own flocks in the area.

From here we made a descent into Eskdale, which is a slightly larger village about three miles from Boot.

The village is home to a fantastic — and unexpected — Japanese garden, adorned with maple trees and exotic plants.

An ornate footbridge over a pond is the centrepiece, and despite being on the steep side, the walk around takes only 15 minutes.

With slightly sore legs, we decided to take the vintage steam train from Eskdale back to Boot and our holiday home.

The Eskdale-to-Ravenglass railway was built in 1873 to transport iron ore mined in the valley to the coastline, but nowadays the trains run daily as an attraction, with afternoon tea available to pre-book.

In a charming tradition, passengers must flag down the driver to board, which really adds to the fun.

If you do want to travel somewhere that’s not reachable on foot, car is by far the easiest method of transport. We used Turo (think Airbnb for cars) to rent a vehicle at a much lower cost than a mainstream service.

Driving around, you’ll likely see some pretty cool spots.

Our route took us via the UK’s steepest road, Hardknott Pass — and about halfway up we came across a fabulous 2nd-century Roman fort.

It was well worth getting out to explore, as its walls are the best preserved of any ancient fort in Britain — and free to admire.

For nature lovers, the wonderful Lake District Wildlife Park, just over an hour away from the cottage by car, is home to more than 100 species of birds and mammals, both native and exotic.

Grizedale Forest is definitely one for the kids, featuring a Gruffalo orienteering trail, plus a Go Ape high-ropes centre and the Grizedale Observatory.

There are also boat trips across Windermere, which run every day from Ambleside.

The latter is close to the Beatrix Potter Museum and boasts dozens of boutique shops and cafes.

One of the beauties of staying in the Eskdale Valley is you can tick off all these main attractions but still stay away from the crowds.

As one local whispered to us about the valley’s beauty and tranquillity: “Don’t tell anyone about it.”

I hope she’ll forgive me before I return.