Here’s our pick of the top deals available in the flash sale.
Barcelona
Rooftop pools and great buffet breakfasts are found at this Spanish hotelCredit: On The Beach
The four star Attica 21 Barcelona Mar is an ideal spot to stay in the trendy Spanish city.
This hotel has a rooftop pool with sweeping city views, as well as comfy, modern rooms and a well-stocked buffet breakfast.
Here you’re also only a short walk from the beach, Platja de la Nova Mar Bella, which is one of the more peaceful stretches of sand in Barcelona.
The On the Beach flash sale offers breaks to Barcelona including flights for £325pp this August, including return flights from London Luton.
Bangkok
Bangkok is a great budget stay if you know where to lookCredit: On The Beach
Ever fancied going to Thailand but haven’t quite got the budget?
You can book a holiday to Bangkok, staying at the four star Century Park for a week for £1,055pp.
This also includes your return flights from London Heathrow, which is a huge bargain considering flights to Bangkok alone typically cost upwards of £600.
The stunning four star hotel has a relaxing rooftop pool, tropical gardens, two restaurants and two bars.
Rome
How about a stay right by the famous Trevi Fountain in Rome?Credit: On The Beach
Imagine sitting down with a drink soaking up the sun on the balcony of your hotel in Rome – that could be you this summer.
Hotel Mancino 12 offers traditional yet stylish rooms with balconies overlooking the historic city.
One of the best parts about this hotel is its location – you’re just a short walk from must-see spots like the Trevi Fountain and Roman Forum.
On the Beach offer a four night stay this August, with return flights from London Stansted, for £405pp.
Valencia
Valencia is another great city for a bargain this summerCredit: On The Beach
Slip away for some sun this July to sunny Valencia in Spain, with a stay at the Azz Valencia Congress Hotel & Spa.
This modern hotel has its own spa, where you can take a leisurely swim in the pool or book yourself in for a blissful massage or pampering facial.
Rooms are bright, fresh and modern, with crisp white linen and sleek wooden finishes.
Outside you’ll find a manicured lawn and crystal-clear pool begging for a dip.
Here you’re a 10-15 minute drive away from the city centre, where you’ll find world-class paella and a plethora of fascinating museums.
MADONNA is being lined up to make a superstar appearance at London Pride on Saturday.
She has long been a celebrated figure in the LGBTQ+ community, and kicked off Pride Month with a surprise showing in New York last month.
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Madonna is set for a superstar appearance at London PrideCredit: SplashFans don’t have long to wait until they can hear Madonna’s album Confessions IICredit: Instagram
London Pride, which is expecting 1.8million people, will take place at locations across the centre of the capital, with acts including Beth Ditto and MNEK booked to play the main stage in Trafalgar Square.
And my music moles have told me that is where they are expecting Madge to pop up.
My insider explained: “Madonna is a passionate advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and has been a very vocal campaigner for decades.
“Organisers are playing it by ear in case of any last-minute changes but as it stands, Madonna is primed to come out on the main stage.
“She isn’t going to be performing like she did in New York. It’s more her coming out, speaking to the crowd and then heading off.
“They’re expecting absolute pandemonium if they pull it off.
“But it would be incredible for everyone going to the Pride event in London.”
Madge has long been a celebrated figure in the LGBTQ+ communityCredit: GettyThe Queen of Pop has signed a huge new deal with TikTokCredit: instagram/madonna
Madge’s surprise 20-minute set in the Big Apple just weeks ago went down a storm with the crowds, who watched her sing Get Together live for the first time in two decades.
And fans don’t have long to wait until they can hear Confessions II, her latest album with producer Stuart Price.
Madonna has signed a huge new deal with TikTok, with the app streaming tracks from the record live tomorrow night from her VIP album launch party.
The hour-long broadcast will also see Madonna being interviewed about the making of the record, as well as playing a handful of her favourite songs from Confessions II.
It’s a big move for Madonna, after she revealed this week that she can’t stand social media, branding it “mesmerising and also soul-destroying”.
She told Vogue Italia: “Algorithms and artificial intelligence are the opposite of taking risks and to me that is the opposite of making art.”
Anything for us fans eh, Madge?
NICOLE’S PUSSYHAT DOLL
Nicole Scherzinger celebrates her 48th birthday on the beachCredit: Instagram/@nicolescherzinger
NICOLE SCHERZINGER is brimming with happiness in this sunhat as she celebrates her 48th birthday.
The Pussycat Dolls singer posed for a selfie at the beach on Monday.
Nicole is with her British fiancé Thom Evans in Hawaii, where she was born.
She said: “Last day at this age and she was feeling cute at sunset, back home at her fave beach.”
Nicole will begin rehearsals later this summer for the Pussycat Dolls reunion tour. UK arena shows start on September 29 in Birmingham.
BAD BUNNY COURTS OLD FLAME AT WIMBLEDON
Bad Bunny at Wimbledon with his ex, jewellery designer Gabriela BerlingeriCredit: Getty
BAD BUNNY has hopped back into his ex’s good books.
He has rekindled his romance with jewellery designer Gabriela Berlingeri, who was with him before fame arrived.
The Puerto Rican rapper played to more than 100,000 fans during two sell-out shows at London’s Tottenham Hotspur Stadium at the weekend.
There in support was Gabriela, who has quietly been accompanying him on tour.
They met in 2017 and dated until 2022. She even appeared as a bride in the video to his 2022 single Titi Me Pregunto.
But he later got together with Kendall Jenner and they dated for 18 months.
Bad Bunny has had quite the glow-up in the past few years and he’s become one of the most-streamed acts in the world.
I’m sure Gabriela will now be the envy of millions.
BRITISH girl group Flo have found a superfan in K-Pop sensation Taemin.
Jorja Douglas, Stella Quaresma and Renee Downer met Taemin backstage at BST Hyde Park where they played on Sunday, after he requested an audience with them.
Brit girl group FLO have found themselves a superfan in K-Pop star TaeminCredit: Supplied
A source said: “Taemin absolutely loves FLO and thinks they’re brilliant. They talked about working on a collaboration together, which made Taemin’s day.
“They were laughing and joking around for ages before the girls offered to teach him the dance routine to their song, Leak It.”
LILY’S SITTING PRETTY
Lily Allen stuns in satin lingerie and tiny black shortsCredit: Henry RedcliffeLily clutches a bouquet of flowers as she brings her West End Girl tour to London’s O2 ArenaCredit: Henry Redcliffe
SULTRY Lily Allen actually has plenty to smile about despite her very public divorce from Stranger Things actor David Harbour.
The singer and actress wore satin lingerie and tiny black shorts when she brought her West End Girl tour to London’s O2 Arena at the weekend – and will return to the capital next week for a third gig at the venue.
Despite looking moody while sitting in a chair on stage, Lily found her smile again as she clutched a bouquet of flowers.
Lily has spent much of the year on the road and was back on stage in Dublin last night.
After a summer of festivals, she will fly to North America in September to play arenas there.
It’s clear Lily is chuffed with the show she has created, which sees her perform her West End Girl album in full.
She wrote on X: “Everyone on this tour is really working very hard to give people the best show we possibly can, and I’m extremely proud of it.”
SAM: I’M HOOKED ON FISH
Sam Smith says he is yearning to be a fishmongerCredit: Getty
SAM SMITH has revealed a yearning to be a fishmonger.
The Promises singer told the Dish from Waitrose podcast: “I’m still gutted I’m not a fishmonger. Honestly, I’m not just saying this.
“I was lucky as a kid. We used to go to Waitrose a lot – and the fish section, I just loved. I just like to handle fish. I don’t know, it felt very calming.”
Earlier this year I told that Sam had launched a TikTok account called Sam Served, which documents favourite meals.
And it’s all part of a ploy to get closer to the fish counter.
Sam said: “I was in San Francisco on tour and I was bored, so,I filmed myself eating and it’s just reignited the fishmonger in me.”
I’VE got a sneaky suspicion there may soon be a song featuring pop girls Zara Larsson and Jade Thirlwall.
The pair secretly had a studio session in Paris last week, after the Solidays Festival, where they were both set to perform, was cancelled due to bad weather. I have high hopes for whatever it is they come up with.
BOWIE TREASURE ON TOUR
David Bowie’s incredible archive of outfits, handwritten lyrics and photographs are going on tour for the first timeCredit: Unknown
DAVID BOWIE fans are in for a treat as the V&A Museum has announced today that his incredible archive of outfits, handwritten lyrics and photographs are going on tour for the first time.
David Bowie: On Tour opens at V&A Dundee in November, before heading to Blackpool, County Durham, Hull and Bristol, with more locations to follow.
The collection on Bowie features never-before-seen items including Polaroids for his make-up and costume fittings, a Ziggy Stardust-era acoustic guitar, unreleased projects, lyrics, performance notes and costumes from the singer’s final albums The Next Day and Blackstar.
WILL’S BRIEFS ENCOUNTER
Will Ferrell has been signed to model Skims men’s undiesCredit: Skims/Instagram
SEEING Will Ferrell playing golf in his underpants wasn’t on my wish list.
But Kim Kardashian signed the actor to model her Skims men’s undies – and it has certainly got us all talking.
Will appears in blue briefs for the new ad campaign, though he was in character as golfer Lonnie Hawkins from his new Netflixcomedy series, The Hawk, out July 16.
Kim said of Will: “His body says retired, his Skims say one more round. Built for men who still know they’ve got it.”
If you say so, Kim.
SHAGGY IS THE RIO DEAL
Shaggy performing at the Rock in Rio festival 2026Credit: SuppliedShaggy and showbiz reporter Freya FraserCredit: Supplied
THEY say never meet your heroes, but Shaggy has spent a lifetime doing exactly that.
He has no shortage of famous fans and everyone from Nelson Mandela to Michael Jackson has sung his praises.
In a chat with showbiz reporter Freya Fraser at Rock In Rio Lisboa festival in Portugal, he said of meeting the former South African president: “We were at an award show in South Africa and we’re at the same table.
“He just kind of says, ‘You’re doing really great stuff’.
“We had a great conversation. I’ve met a lot of other people. Michael Jackson was also a super-big Shaggy fan.
“That’s documented on YouTube, everybody sees that. I have actually performed twice for Pope Francis. Queen Elizabeth, we performed for her Jubilee. I met all my heroes, to be honest with you.”
Shaggy is not modest when it comes to his achievements, and he is pretty flashy with his lifestyle too, even if he reckons he isn’t.
He said: “I’m a very practical person, so I’m not buying cars I don’t drive because I’m always on tour. I never drive anywhere, somebody’s always driving me around.
“I’m not buying homes I don’t live in. I have two homes. I’m not buying five of them, you know, I’ll rent them when I need them.”
But he is humble when it comes to his career, which has seen 16 Top 40 hits including four No1s.
He said: “I’m not a genius, God gave me those. If I wrote them, I’d be writing one every week.”
CAUGHT LIVE
Central Cee @ Rock In Rio Lisboa
★★★★☆
Central Cee takes over the World Stage at Rock In Rio LisboaCredit: Supplied
CENTRAL CEE ticked Lisbon off his bucket list as he took over the World Stage at Rock In Rio Lisboa before headliner 21 Savage.
On what was the most rap-focused line-up in the festival’s 22-year history, the Londoner tore through a mammoth 21-track set, including Loading, Doja, and Band4Band.
Cench proved he is an international star as thousands of Portuguese fans rapped every word back to him.
The atmosphere could not have been more different from the night before, when Sir Rod Stewart, Cyndi Lauper and Joss Stone had fans swaying along to their anthems.
Staying true to his nonchalant persona, Central Cee – real name Oakley Neil Caesar-Su – asked: “We’re not in a rush, are we?”
And as he worked the crowd and whizzed through high-profile collaborations such as Did It First with Ice Spice and Dave’s Sprinter, I was getting treated like an A-lister.
Rock In Rio Lisboa pulled out all the stops for its guests, with one of the biggest hospitality areas I have ever seen.
The UK may have provided a lot of the talent on this occasion, but we could learn a thing or two from Portugal’s festival scene.
Weekly insights and analysis on the latest developments in military technology, strategy, and foreign policy.
One of the U.S. Air Force’s B-2 bombers fired an AGM-158C Long Range Anti-Ship Missile (LRASM) during a recent live-fire sinking exercise (SINKEX) in the Western Pacific. The stealthy LRASM was not previously known to be in the B-2’s arsenal. Integration of the AGM-158C offers a huge boost in capability for the B-2, creating a penetrating fleet-killing platform that could be especially valuable in a future high-end fight in the Pacific against China.
“The Pacific Air Forces successfully conducted a live-fire Sinking Exercise using the B-2 Spirit north of the Mariana Islands. The B-2 deployed the Long Range Anti-Ship Missile, demonstrating enhanced ability to achieve strategic objectives within range of potential threats,” according to a press release today from Pacific Air Forces (PACAF). “With the deployment of the LRASM from the B-2 Spirit, the Pacific Air Forces takes a major step forward in countering maritime threats. This milestone showcased impressive high-end innovation reinforcing the US military’s commitment to safeguarding national interests and maintaining global security.”
Air Force personnel prepare to load an AGM-158C onto a waiting B-2 bomber. USAF
The release does not provide any further details about the SINKEX, but PACAF confirmed to TWZ directly that the B-2 fired the LRASM at the ex-USS Juneau, a decommissioned Austin class amphibious warfare ship, as part of Exercise Valiant Shield 2026. U.S. and allied forces taking part in the exercise pummeled the Juneau with various munitions this weekend, sending it to the bottom of the Pacific, roughly 200 nautical miles off the coast of Guam. An unnamed Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) submarine appears to have delivered the final blow with a heavyweight torpedo. The B-2’s involvement was not mentioned until today.
The ex-USS Juneau is hit by a torpedo from an unnamed Japanese submarine during the SINKEX during Exercise Valiant Shield on June 27, 2026. USN/Seaman Apprentice Anthony Vilardi
“Exercises like Valiant Shield allow U.S. Pacific Command the opportunity to integrate forces from all branches of service and with our allies to conduct precise, lethal, and overwhelming multi-domain effects that demonstrate the strength and versatility of the Joint Force and our commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific,” a PACAF spokesperson told TWZ.
A B-2 bomber takes off from Andersen Air Force Base on Guam on a sortie as part of Exercise Valiant Shield 2026. USAF
As noted, the B-2’s ability to fire LRASM at all does not appear to have been previously disclosed. When reached for comment, Air Force Global Strike Command (AFGSC) told TWZ that all details about the integration of the missile onto the B-2 were classified, as was whether or not the SINKEX represented any kind of first for the bomber.
A LRASM is seen under the wing of an F/A-18, with another missile in the foreground. USN
The Air Force previously highlighted other efforts to expand the B-2’s anti-ship capabilities in the form of Quicksink precision-guided anti-ship bombs, which leverage the Joint Direct Attack Munition (JDAM) guidance kit. You can read more about Quicksink here.
A B-2 bomber drops a Quicksink bomb during a test in cooperation with the Royal Norwegian Air Force in 2025. A Norwegian F-35A is seen flying alongside. Royal Norwegian Air Force
The AGM-158C is derived from the AGM-158 Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missile (JASSM) family of land-attack cruise missiles. The baseline AGM-158A JASSM and AGM-158B JASSM-Extended Range (JASSM-ER) are already known to be integrated onto the B-2. The B-2 is also known to be able to carry up to 16 AGM-158As, and is very likely capable of carrying the same number of JASSM-ERs and LRASMs, as all of these missiles have the same general form factor.
A B-2 drops a JASSM. USAF
In terms of its general mode of operation, LRASM uses GPS-assisted Inertial Navigation System (INS) guidance to navigate first to a designated target area. The missile is highly autonomous, thanks to a built-in route planning capability that is linked to an onboard electronic support measures (ESM) package. The missile has the ability to automatically change course in response to the sudden emergence of enemy defenses based on their radio-frequency emissions, as well as use those signals to better detect potential targets.
After arriving in the target area, the missile’s imaging infrared sensor in the nose takes over for the terminal phase of flight. Using a built-in threat target library database, the seeker searches for and categorizes targets autonomously. Information in that database also helps steer the missile to hit the target ship at its most vulnerable point. As a passive sensor, the infrared seeker does not send out radio-frequency signals that an enemy could detect. It is also immune to radio-frequency jamming.
Long Range Anti-Ship Missile (LRASM)
LRASM also has a datalink that allows it to get threat updates while in flight. It can also work cooperatively with other LRASMs during coordinated strikes. A C-3 variant is now in development that will feature a boost in maximum range, as well as “C++ software, [an] enhanced BLOS [beyond-line-of-sight] Weapons Data Link, [and] advanced survivability” capabilities, according to previously released Navy budget documents. The range of existing versions of the LRASM is not publicly disclosed, but is reported to be between 200 and 300 miles, in line with the AGM-158A JASSM. The C-3 version is expected to have the same reach as the JASSM-ER, which is reported to be around 600 miles.
“With the deployment of the LRASM from the B-2 Spirit, the Pacific Air Forces takes a major step forward in countering maritime threats,” according to today’s release from that command. “This milestone showcased impressive high-end innovation reinforcing the US military’s commitment to safeguarding national interests and maintaining global security.”
“The B-2’s impressive performance underscores the US military’s commitment to adaptability and flexibility in the face of emerging security challenges,” Air Force Gen. Kevin B. Schneider, head of PACAF, also said in a statement. “By prioritizing counter-maritime strike operations, we can maintain a decisive edge over adversaries, protect our national interests and ensure the free and open Pacific that underpin our global security.”
Another view of an LRASM being loaded onto a B-2 ahead of the Valiant Shield 2026 SINKEX. USAF
As we noted right up front in this story, pairing the highly survivable and hard-to-spot B-2 with LRASM presents a new penetrating anti-ship capability. Each one of the bombers could engage multiple ships simultaneously and use their other attributes to get within range of even the most high-value targets, such as the People’s Liberation Army Navy’s (PLAN) growing fleet of aircraft carriers and big deck amphibious assault ships. LRASM’s range means that the bombers only need to be in hundreds of miles of their targets. As mentioned, the missiles themselves offer a high degree of survivability, as well.
The Chinese aircraft carrier Shandong, at left, and Liaoning, at right, sail together in the Pacific together with their escorts, as aircraft fly overhead. Chinese government
“LRASM plays a critical role in ensuring U.S. naval access to operate in both open-ocean and littoral environments due to its enhanced ability to discriminate between targets from long-range,” then-Lt. Col. Timothy Albrecht, said following B-1 training sorties over the Black Sea back in 2020. “With the increase of maritime threats and their improvement of anti-access/area-denial [A2/AD] environmental weapons, this stealthy anti-ship cruise missile provides reduced risk to strike assets by penetrating and defeating sophisticated enemy air-defense systems.”
A B-1 bomber drops an LRASM during a test. USAF
At that time, Albrecht was a member of the U.S. Air Forces in Europe’s (USAFE) 603rd Air Operations Center and the Bomber Task Force mission planner.
A pre-production B-21 Raider bomber seen from above during aerial refueling testing. USAF
What has been revealed already is that the Air Force now has a very capable, long-range, deep-penetrating delivery platform capable of delivering its most capable and hard-to-detect anti-ship missiles.
The Bear fans might be wondering who Tom Skilling is in real life as the Chicago meteorologist makes a surprise appearance in the final season
Meet The Bear Season 5’s surprise guest star Tom Skilling
The latest guest star is Chicago royalty with an unexpected family connection.
**Warning – this article contains minor spoilers for The Bear Season 5.**
UK fans of The Bear tuning in may well be seeking some background on the fifth season’s thrilling new guest star.
Jeremy Allen White, Ebon Moss-Bachrach and Ayo Edebiri headline the smash-hit FX and Disney+ series centred on a chaotic Chicago restaurant whose lofty ambitions are more than matched by the mayhem unfolding in its kitchen.
Season 5 picks up immediately after the moment Carmen ‘Carmy’ Berzatto (played by White) announced he was walking away from the restaurant business for good, breaking the news to Sydney (Edebiri), Richie (Moss-Bachrach) and his sister Natalie, known as ‘Sugar’ (Abby Elliott), reports Wales Online.
With their finances in dire straits, a fierce storm raging outside and a packed dining room to cater for, the Bear team face one final night to demonstrate they’ve got what it takes to land that much-coveted Michelin star.
Adding to the pressure, a local celebrity has secured a table for their most crucial evening yet, as meteorologist Tom Skilling has made a reservation. But just who is he?
Who is Tom Skilling?
Tom Skilling, 74, is a former weather presenter who served as WGN-TV Chicago’s chief meteorologist from 1978 until his retirement in 2024.
Though he was born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Skilling grew up in Westfield, New Jersey before his family relocated to the Chicago suburb of Aurora, Illinois, where he completed his secondary education. At just 14 years old, he started working for WKKD and WKKD-FM where he spotted that their weather reports were incorrect as they relied on forecasts for Chicago instead of Aurora.
He struck a deal with the station to deliver his own reports which, if accurate, would earn him his own weather programme.
They proved correct and he started presenting Aurora forecasts three times weekly. He subsequently secured a position at Aurora’s WLXT-TV aged only 18.
Skilling went on to work at WKOW-TV and WTSO radio while studying at the University of Wisconsin in Madison, before securing his first major television role in 1975 for WITI-TV in Milwaukee, where his forecasts were accompanied by a sock puppet named Albert the Alley Cat.
Following a return to Chicago, he became WGN-TV’s chief meteorologist in 1978, where he stayed until his retirement in 2024. He is believed to have become the highest-paid weather broadcaster in the United States and also maintained a popular column in the Chicago Tribute, Ask Tom, until 2022.
Skilling has never married and remarkably little is known about his private life. However, he is the brother of disgraced Enron CEO Jeffrey Skilling.
The energy giant, Enron Corporation, declared bankruptcy in 2001 after fraudulent practices were exposed. This resulted in the collapse of the company’s accounting firm, Arthur Andersen, which was amongst the five largest firms globally, and is regarded as one of the biggest bankruptcy reorganisations in American history.
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Disney+ has brought back its popular deal that lets new and returning customers join its Standard with Ads plan for £1.99 per month for four months.
This means members can stream hit shows like Andor, The Bear and Alien: Earth, plus countless titles from Star Wars and Marvel, for a fraction of the usual price.
Jeffrey Skilling, who served as CEO at the time, faced 35 criminal charges linked to the scandal, encompassing conspiracy, insider trading and securities fraud.
He received a $45 million (£34 million) fine and a 24-year prison sentence. Following numerous appeals, he ultimately served 12 years behind bars before being released in 2019.
The Bear Season 5 is available to stream on Disney+.
Becky Hill has hit back at a booing crowd during her surprise festival set as she addressed a viral videoCredit: InstagramThe pop star, 32, was savagely booed at the weekend after she vowed to play only new songs at her secret set at TRNSMTCredit: Unknown
Speaking about the viral video that showed the crowd, she has now said: “Getting booed is not nice.
“I haven’t found a single one of these easy, it’s really upsetting.
“Because I love this job and that’s not making me love it as much as I usually do.”
Speaking directly to the camera she added: “I wanted to bring a new and exclusive thirty minute set of brand new music to a festival crowd unannouced.
Becky said getting booed was not nice and that it was upsettingCredit: InstagramShe wanted to bring a new and exclusive thirty minute set of brand new music to a festival crowdCredit: Michael SchofieldHowever the crowd wanted to hear her hitsCredit: GettyBecky explained she was not a jukebox and needed to create new songsCredit: Getty
“I thought it would be a great opportunity to play the new music I’ve been working so hard on.
“And I personally love so much.”
She then thanked the team at the festival for giving her that stage and also the crowd of people who you stayed and danced with her right until the very end.
She added: “It was amazing to have such a captive audience who wanted to hear the new stuff too.
“I said on stage how difficult it is to transition into a new single, and new music and new albums.
“And all this conversation online is exactly what I meant.
“I’m not a jukebox, I’m an artist and the tickets at TRNSMT were not sold with my name as part of the line-up.
“And I wanted to do something new, artistically driven.”
Becky explained that she doesn’t normally get the opportunity to do that much in her career.
She added: “But trust me when my name is on the poster I will always sing the tunes that people know and love.”
“I feel really grateful to have those records in my catalogue,” she explained.
The singer concluded that in order to have a long career she needed to have new music and thanked those that stayed to listen to her.
The pop star has no shortage of hits to choose from, with 19 top 40 singles, six top 10s and a number one to her name.
A survey of 2,000 UK adults has named the best staycation destinations for 2026, with Cornwall’s St Ives retaining the top spot and Northumberland’s Bamburgh making a surprise new entry into the rankings
This Northumberland coastal village made a surprise entry(Image: Getty Images)
Britain’s top staycation destinations for 2026 have been unveiled, with Cornwall’s St Ives claiming the number one spot yet again and the Northumberland village of Bamburgh securing second place as a fresh addition to the rankings.
The yearly staycation report, drawn from a survey of 2,000 adults, showed that Bourton-on-the-Water and Salcombe have grown in popularity, while other coastal hotspots also experienced shifts in the standings. Brighton overtook Lyme Regis, climbing to sixth place, ahead of the Dorset town, which has moved from fifth last year to seventh.
The study, commissioned by Sykes Holiday Cottages, discovered that 38% intend to take their main holiday within the UK this year, climbing to 53% amongst Gen Z. This is up from 34% of adults who said the same last year, while Gen Z’s appetite for UK holidays has increased from 45% in 2025.
James Shaw, chief commercial officer at the holiday brand which launched the annual Staycation Index Report, said: “The continued popularity of UK breaks demonstrates that staycations remain a key part of how Brits holiday.
“More people are choosing to stay at home and prioritising value, flexibility and reassurance when planning time away, particularly amid ongoing uncertainty around overseas travel.
“What’s especially notable this year is the growing influence of younger travellers, Gen Z is increasingly embracing UK holidays, with more people opting for experience-led trips that combine scenery, food, culture and the chance to explore multiple destinations in one break.
“From seaside towns and national parks to countryside retreats, the UK continues to offer an enormous variety of holiday experiences, and that’s reflected in the strength and diversity of destinations featured in this year’s rankings.”
The study revealed that 64% are planning to — or have considered — a multi-destination road trip, stopping off at an average of three locations. Coastal spots are the most sought after, followed by rural areas and national parks.
Tourist attractions (48%) were also a deciding factor when choosing where to visit, alongside locations with fond memories (38%) and positive reviews and ratings (35%).
Of those hoping for a break in the UK, 48% said it’s simply the time they have to switch off and relax.
The study, conducted via OnePoll, found 14% have been swayed by a film or TV show, with Peaky Blinders proving the most influential following its film release this year (11%), set in Birmingham.
Similarly, Northern Ireland, home of the Game of Thrones prequel, House of the Dragon; and Northumberland, which was a location for Jurassic World, were also popular choices.
James Shaw, added: “For many people, holidays remain one of the most important opportunities in the year to properly switch off and spend quality time together, even as budgets remain under pressure.
“What this research highlights is that UK travel continues to appeal because it offers both convenience and variety – whether that’s a coastal escape, a countryside road trip or revisiting places that hold personal memories.
“We’re also seeing more travellers embrace flexible, multi-stop breaks, with people increasingly keen to experience more of what the UK has to offer in a single trip.”
TOP 50 UK STAYCATIONS
St Ives (Cornwall)
Bamburgh (Northumberland Coast)
Ambleside (Lake District)
Grasmere (Lake District)
Robin Hood’s Bay (North Yorkshire Coast)
Brighton (East Sussex)
Lyme Regis (Dorset – Jurassic Coast)
Bakewell (Peak District)
Salcombe (Devon)
Bourton-on-the-Water (Cotswolds)
Alnwick (Northumberland)
Lerwick (Shetland)
Tenby (Pembrokeshire)
Conwy (North Wales)
Fort William (Gateway to Ben Nevis & the Highlands)
Japan reported a trade surplus of JPY 301.9 billion in April 2026, compared to a deficit of JPY 149.5 billion in April 2025, significantly exceeding expectations for a JPY 29.7 billion deficit.
This surplus is the largest since November, with exports
MICHELLE Heaton has opened up about her surprise feud with a rival noughties pop star.
The Liberty X singer held back tears as she discussed the band’s battle with Hear’Say – the winners of ITV‘s Popstars.
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Liberty X stars Kevin Simm, Kelli Young, Michelle Heaton, Jessica Taylor and Anthony LundonCredit: GettyHear’Say won ITV reality show PopstarsCredit: Getty
Shortly after finishing as runner-ups on the 2001 reality series, Michelle and her bandmates Tony Lundon,Kevin Simm,Jessica TaylorandKelli Young, were were formed into a new group.
However, despite being friends during filming, Michelle says: “There was a war from the get-go
“We were constantly pitted against each other in a world we were trying to navigate.”
It saw the breakdown of Michelle’s close friendship with Suzanne Shaw.
Opening up to Paul Brunson on his podcast We Need To Talk, Michelle said: “It was evident they wanted us to fail. Not just Hear’Say as a team, but the people around them.
“And so that would have then stirred up the pot with the Hear’Say members in order to add fuel to the fire when they did interviews about how they were bigger and better and we were not so… and that we were running on their coattails.
“It felt really harsh. We didn’t know how to navigate it. It felt like it wasn’t the five people that we met in the audition process.
“And alongside all of this, all I kind of wanted to do was reach out to Suzanne because that’s like one of the people that I got really close to.. and be like, ‘how is it? What’s it like?’
“I really wanted to share that with her. And at no point did I see what we were doing as hanging on their coattails.”
Thankfully, years on from the height of their fame, the pair reconnected.
Proving their bond back in 2016, Michelle wrote in her OK! Magazine column: “Massive congrats to my friend Suzanne who announced her pregnancy in what has to be the sweetest way possible.
“The video she made made me cry and her son Corey’s response was priceless. I loved the video and I love Suzanne. I’m so happy for her little family.”
Michelle opened up about her fallout with the rival bandCredit: GettySuzanne Shaw was close to Michelle while filming PopstarsCredit: GettyKelli Young, Michelle Heaton and Jessica Taylor have performed for the past nine years togetherCredit: Getty – Contributor
Pedro Pascal took his “Star Wars” character to the streets on Saturday, going undercover as the Mandalorian to surprise Disneyland guests aboard the Millennium Falcon: Smuggler’s Run attraction.
A video posted on Disney’s social media showed the actor in full costume, then lifting his helmet to reveal himself.
“Now you all have to die because you’ve seen my face,” he joked to the stunned parkgoers.
After the surprise, Pascal posed for pictures with the dozen or so fans.
Pascal was later joined by co-star Sigourney Weaver, director Jon Favreau and LucasFilm President Dave Filoni at Galaxy’s Edge, the 14-acre “Star Wars”-themed section of the park modeled after an outpost on the fictional planet of Batuu.
The appearance was part of the press tour for “The Mandalorian and Grogu,” a spinoff of the Disney+ series “The Mandalorian.” The film, which releases on May 22, is the first “Star Wars” movie to hit theaters since 2019.
A TikTok star has shared her experience of auditioning for Britain’s Got Talent as a child
BGT has been a hit with fans for almost two decades (Image: ITV)
A former Britain’s Got Talent hopeful has revealed the surprising reality she encountered behind the scenes.
The ITV talent show has captivated audiences since launching nearly 20 years ago. Throughout its run, countless aspiring performers have tried their luck, including TikTok personality Emily Jade.
The food and lifestyle content creator took her shot at stardom aged just eight, though her dreams were dashed when she realised she wouldn’t be performing before Simon and the celebrity judging panel.
In a candid TikTok video, Emily recalled: “When I was eight, I randomly decided one day that I was an amazing singer and I was gonna be a pop star. So I decided to audition for Britain’s Got Talent. This was actually really unexpected for me because I was a really shy child, I never put my hand up at school – I was really shy.”
Detailing how she secured her audition slot, she added: “My mum was obviously like, ‘yeah Emily, go for it’, like, encouraging me, because this was out of my character. So, I applied for Britain’s Got Talent online, and then they actually accepted me. I got a letter saying, ‘You’re going to be on Britain’s Got Talent’.”
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Emily continued: “I remember the months leading up to this audition, I was singing in front of all my family members, in front of everyone in my class. This was out of character. Everyone was probably laughing at me because I was horrendously bad at singing.
“And the song I decided to sing was ‘This is Me’ from Camp Rock. So, the day finally comes, and we travel to London, and I remember waiting for hours, and then I was going into these, like, private rooms and, like, practising singing.”
Yet, mere moments before stepping up for her audition, she was crushed to learn the famous panel wouldn’t be watching her performance.
She explained: “Finally, my time comes, and they call me into this room, and I was expecting, guys, this is where you’re gonna be disappointed. I was expecting Simon Cowell- all the judges, I was expecting that.
“I got there, and there were just four random people sitting on a judge’s desk. I don’t remember who they were, I have no idea. I remember they were also filming me; they had a camera as well, and my dad was allowed to come into the room with me when I auditioned.
“And then I just stood there with no music and sang, This is me from Camp Rock. When I auditioned and left that room 100%, they definitely laughed at me. They looked at each other, and they probably went ‘bless her. What is she doing here?'”
Sadly, Emily’s performance didn’t win over the show’s producers, and she missed out on progressing to the televised stages.
“My audition was over, and I think I was only in there for like a minute. Long story short, I waited two months and got a letter saying I didn’t get through to the next round, of course, because I was so bad.”
She added: I’m sorry if you’re expecting some amazing story, and I got through, like, 10 rounds. I didn’t even make it through the 1st round. So the singing career stopped there, and I never sang again.”
Britain’s Got Talent airs Saturdays at 7pm on ITV and ITVX.
Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is in Beijing, seeking support on a deal with the US, while US President Trump will be in China next week, and Iran will be on the agenda.
Why is everyone turning to China? What role is Beijing playing in the US-Israel led war on Iran?
WHEN her 13-year marriage to Patrick Kielty shockingly ended last year, Cat Deeley was left feeling anxious as she navigated a brand new chapter.
But 12 months on, the This Morning star, 49, has undergone a transformation and has a new lease of confidence, The Sun can reveal.
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As it nears a year since Cat Deeley’s split from husband Patrick Kielty, the TV star has done a complete 180 as she embraces single life with a glowing new outlookCredit: Instagram/@catdeeleyShe and Patrick, who share two sons, announced their separation after 13 years of marriageCredit: Getty
And after going through a tough time with the split, Cat now has a new glow, which hasn’t gone unnoticedCredit: Shutterstock EditorialThe star has been letting her hair down with trips to visit old pals and nights outCredit: instagramWhilst her co-host Ben Shephard has also served as a supportive shoulder to lean onFriends have also revealed that glamorous Cat is open to dating again as she puts herself back out thereCredit: Instagram/@catdeeley
But now, a close friend has revealed to The Sun that Cat is living her new single life to the fullest.
She is not only open to dating again and looking more glamorous than ever, but is making a U-turn when it comes to her famously private home life.
They revealed: “I don’t think I’ve ever seen her like this before. There’s just a lightness to her now.
“She’s saying yes to things she might have dismissed in the past, especially with work but also in her real life off screen.
“She’s been really open, she’s not afraid to be emotional or be herself on TV – she’s just enjoying her life much more.
“She’s even letting people see more of her home life inside her house – she’s filmed a few big brand projects at home, which is quite a big step for her as she and Patrick were extremely private but I guess she is just more relaxed with herself, she’s not overthinking anything and just saying yes to everything that fills her cup.”
Whilst it’s been a long time since Cat was on the dating scene, the pal revealed that the TV star isn’t against getting back out there.
“She is open to dating again, definitely, but it has to feel right. She wouldn’t go on apps because that’s just not her style, well maybe Raya one day, she’s not totally closed off.
“She likes the idea of what’s out there, a bit of flirting, a bit of fun, without any pressure.”
Cat has even shared some content from her home, something she was fiercely private about whilst with PatrickAnd aside from looking ultra-glamorous, the star is said to be feeling ‘genuinely happy’ with her new chapterCredit: Getty
Describing the time with friends as “exactly what she needed”, our source says Cat’s nearest and dearest are helping her live to the fullest.
Whilst her close relationship with co-host Ben has also provided a helping hand, with the broadcaster’s ‘solid’ friendship providing laughs and a shoulder to cry on.
“You can see the difference in her too, she simply looks incredible. Not just glamorous, but genuinely happy,” said the insider.
They added: “It’s that kind of confidence you can’t fake, and people around her have really noticed it. She’s glowing, and I think a lot of that comes from feeling more in control of her own life again.
“It really does feel like a whole new chapter for Cat. She’s happier, more relaxed, and completely herself again and I think that’s why everything seems to be falling into place for her on and off screen.”
FORMER X Factor winner Matt Cardle is set to come face to face with Simon Cowell on live TV again – 16 years after winning the ITV talent show.
I can reveal that Matt is being lined up to perform at one of the Britain’s Got Talent live finals in the coming weeks.
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Former X Factor winner Matt Cardle is set for a live TV reunion with Simon Cowell as he lines up for a performance on Britain’s Got Talent 16 years after his The X Factor winCredit: ITVMatt will take to the stage as part of a special performance of West End hit Kinky Boots, with Simon being a huge fan of musicalsCredit: Getty
Rather than performing new solo music, Matt will take to the stage as part of a special performance of West End hit Kinky Boots.
Bizarre’s Jack hung out on the set of her music video earlier this year, so we can’t wait to see that one live.
Zara‘s feeling f-Lush
Zara Larsson soaks up some rays ahead of headlining Radio 1’s Big Weekend in Sunderland next monthCredit: Main Rose/Charlotte RutherfordThis Friday she will release the deluxe version of her fifth album, Midnight Sun: Girls Trip, packed with collaborations, including Tyla and ShakiraCredit: Main Rose/Charlotte Rutherford
Zara Larsson has me counting down the days to my summer holiday after hopping on this float to promote her Main Rose swimwear brand.
She was living her own Lush Life as she soaked up some rays ahead of headlining Radio 1’s Big Weekend in Sunderlandnext month.
This Friday she will release the deluxe version of her fifth album, Midnight Sun: Girls Trip, packed with collaborations, including Tyla and Shakira.
And it’s testament to Zara trusting herself.
On writing and recording the track, which came out last year, she said: “I stopped focusing so much on what I thought other people would want from me or what I thought radio would want, and just started focusing on what I wanted to do.
“Ironically that’s when people start caring.”
Liam family praise for Louis’s heartfelt concert
Some of Liam’s relatives, including his sister Nicola, were in a VIP box to see Louis perform at Birmingham’s Utilita Arena last weekendCredit: Getty
“It was extremely emotional, but really beautiful, and it meant a lot to be there.
“Your staging and your songs are beautiful. A truly special night.”
Louis has previously spoken warmly about Liam.
He said: “I could talk all day about how amazing he was.
“We all looked up to him, he was vastly experienced before any of us had done anything.
“If he could just for five minutes live in my head or your head and see how we perceive him, he would be so shocked.
“He was pure.”
Madonna and Sabrina Carpenter’s Coachella collab Bring Your Love drops this Friday as the superstars release the official audioCredit: Instagram
The wait for Madonna and Sabrina Carpenter’s collaboration is almost over, as it’s being released this Friday.
The superstars recently performed Bring Your Love at Coachella and now they are putting out the official audio.
The pair made the announcement yesterday when they shared a new photo of themselves with the caption: “We’ve got something to say about it,” which is a reference to Madonna’s 1989 song Express Yourself.
It will be the first official single from the Queen of Pop’s forthcoming album Confessions On A Dancefloor: Part II, after she released a teaser track, I Feel So Free, earlier this month.
Humanize 102 words
Pink girl’s a leg-end
Pink with daughter WillowCredit: Getty
Pink has sold out stadiums and had No1s across the globe, but as far as daughter Willow is concerned she’s top of the charts as an embarrassing mum.
At the opening night of The Lost Boys musical in New York they posed for photots on the red carpet.
But while standing in front of the snappers, Pink gestured at the slit in Willow’s skirt and said, “Show off your legs,” to which the youngster snapped: “No!”
Alan’s tequila stunrise
Alan Carr has been revealing secrets on his Life’s A Beach podcastCredit: Getty
Alan Carr once fell in the Serpentine in London’s Hyde Park after drinking “hallucinogenic tequila” on his Chatty Man TV show.
The comedian said he was still feeling the effects the next day as he walked his dogs and suffered a mishap.
He explained he’d had a tequila the night before but was given a hallucinogenic one by mistake.
He added: “I couldn’t sober up and I fell in the Serpentine, p***ed.
“My old dog Bev, bless her, she dropped the ball in the Serpentine and I went forward to pick it up. And I think all the tequila rushed to the front of my head and I just fell in.”
Speaking on his Life’s A Beach podcast, he added: “In films, the dogs are meant to jump in and save you, but they were just wagging their tails, like, ‘What’s this p***head done again?’
“So I was just soaking wet and I had to walk . . . You know, when people are pulling their kids away, ‘Come away from the strange man,’ and all that.”
Capital’s Summertime Ball is returning to London, taking over Wembley Stadium to entertain 80,000 fans on June 6.
The line-up will be revealed by Jordan North, Chris Stark and Sian Welby on Capital Breakfast this morning and tomorrow, before tickets go on sale through the Global Player app at 9am on Thursday.
Gracie has secret follow-up
Gracie Abrams’ new record is rumoured to be all about falling for Normal People actor Paul MescalCredit: Getty
Gracie Abrams is back, two years after her album The Secret Of Us topped the charts.
The American singer released a teaser on Instagram yesterday, and it appears to be a snippet from the lead single for her upcoming third album.
The record is rumoured to be all about falling for Normal People actor Paul Mescal, although it doesn’t sound like it’s been smooth sailing.
They were reported to have briefly split in early 2025, and the song will do little to shut down that speculation.
Gracie sings: “I used to see clearly but it’s bloodshot. And I want you so badly but I closed off.
“I used to think we’d get married. But I guess not.”
Last summer we revealed Paul was at Gracie’s Glastonbury set, singing along to every word.
In February, they made their red-carpet debut at the Baftas in London.
And last month I told how Gracie had moved from LA into Paul’s London home, while he films the upcoming Beatles biopics.
Her last album was all about heartbreak, but I’m expecting some sunnier moments this time around.
ED Sheeran is in the middle of a short break from his Loop World Tour, but he’s certainly not resting on his laurels.
I can reveal he is about to drop a new single that’s been more than a decade in the making, after he teamed up with Dutch dance great Martin Garrix to make Repeat It.
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Ed Sheeran is set to drop long-awaited single Repeat It with legendary DJ Martin Garrix during a break from his Loop World TourCredit: GettyEd and Martin, pictured, first teamed up in 2014, with their long-delayed track Repeat It finally set for release next monthCredit: Getty
Ed and Martin first hit the studio together in 2014 – with the British megastar confirming he was taking a step into dance music.
Martin then premiered the song live at Miami’s Ultra Music Festival the following summer.
Insiders said the track would finally be officially released next month, adding: “Repeat It has taken 12 years to officially see the light of day but finally Ed and Martin’s collaboration is coming out.
“The song has been reworked slightly from the version played at Ultra back in 2015 to make it more radio friendly.
“Lyrically, it’s a classic Ed love song set to a dance beat.”
Ed first teased making the song more than a decade ago and said on Instagram: “Finished up my very first EDM song with Martin Garrix, brilliant experience, looking forward to you all hearing it.”
Now the wait is almost over.
My music moles shared lyrics to the track with me, and Ed has stayed true to form, with the lyrics steeped in romance.
Ed sings: “Stay for a night, call it what you want.
“And I’ll compromise. To have you in my arms.”
He adds: “Don’t fight the feeling. Rewind, repeat it.
“If the world ends tonight. You’ll be in my arms.
“We will be frozen in time, underneath the stars.”
Ed isn’t scheduled to play any shows in the UK this year, although there is no doubt in my mind his Loop Tour will reach the UK come 2027.
His last album Play went straight to the No1 spot when he released it in September, and I bet Repeat It will also fly up the charts.
It’s a nailed-on summer banger.
Ed’s last album Play went straight to the No1 spot when he released it in SeptemberCredit: Getty
In December Amanda revealed that she had lost over 28lbs with the assistance of Ozympic.
Posting on social media to celebrate the achievement, Amanda penned to her followers that she was “down 152lbs” to date.
Amanda first announced that she was going to begin her Ozympic journey last June when the craze of weight loss injections swept the entertainment industry by storm.
At the time she described feeling “so excited” to shed some pounds and that she’ll “look better in paparazzi pictures”.
Amanda had previously opened up about battling depression and cited it as one of the reasons behind her weight gain.
She was a child star on Nickelodeon back in the 2000sCredit: Shutterstock Editorial
It led to her becoming increasingly insecure, hoping to someday return to her teenage weight of 110lbs.
As she grew up, Amanda underwent some different procedures to alter her appearance.
Last August Amanda confirmed that she had gotten excess skin surgically removed from her eyelids.
She described the procedure, known as a blepharoplasty as “one of the best things [she] could have ever done for [her] self-confidence.”
Amanda has also had various tattoos done over the years, including a Roman numeral on her finger and a heart on her face.
Some of the popular TV shows that she featured in include All That and The Amanda Show.
She won several Kids’ Choice Awards for both programmes, and later went on to star in sit coms and teen comedy films including What I Like About You, Hairspray, and Living Proof.
After the end of her conservatorship, Amanda pivoted to try out other creative pursuits including releasing music.
She released her first singles, Diamonds and Fairfax, back in 2022.
She’s ditched her signature blonde hair for a bold new lookCredit: TikTok / @amanda.bynes1986
Madonna joined Sabrina Carpenter on the Coachella stage in a surprise appearanceCredit: SuppliedThe hand-holding duo were a hit with the Californian crowdsCredit: YouTube/Coachella
Two decades after her own epic headlining slot at the Californian festival, the queen of pop turned heads in a flesh-flashing frilly outfit.
Wearing a purple corset with matching lilac gloves, purple stockings and knee-high stiletto boots, the comeback queen accessorised with tinted shades and her long blonde hair down in waves.
She joined a lingerie-clad Sabrina, 26, who wowed in a white lace sparkly bodice and heels during her headline set at Coachella.
The duo delighted the crowds with classic hits including Vogue, Like A Prayer and I Feel So Free from Madonna’s new album.
Sabrina had been mid-performance when an instrumental tease of Madonna‘s 1990 hit song Vogue weaved in.
Madonna told the cheering audience: “Wow, thank you.
“Sabrina, thank you so much for inviting me on your show.”
Holding hands, she replied: “No thanks needed, Madonna.”
“Well, I have a few things I want to get off my chest. So, 20 years ago today I performed at Coachella,” admitted the Ray of Light singer.
“I was in the dance tent and it was the first time I performed Confessions On The Dance Floor part one in America.
“It’s a full circle moment, you know? Very meaningful for me.”
She urged: “Let’s try to be together. Let’s try to avoid disagreements.
“And to that point, the great thing about music is that it brings people together.
“It’s the one place that people have to put their differences aside, put their s**t down and just everybody have a good time together, right?
“So I am thrilled to be a part of that healing experience…”
The Vogue singer confirmed this week that she will release her first record in seven years this July — a sequel to her 2005 smash Confessions On A Dance Floor.
The original, inspired by disco and Eighties electropop, shifted more than 10million copies.
It featured No1 singles Hung Up and Sorry, and ushered in a new era of dance music.
In 2024, Sabrina paid tribute to Madge by attending the MTV VMAs in a vintage strapless gown previously worn to the Oscars by her musical hero in 1991.
Sabrina said of Madonna last year: “She’s so lovely and exactly how you expect her to be — just, like, so magnetic.”
The Please Please Please singer has thrilled fans sharing a photo dump containing some sizzling snapsof her festival stint – including a mini dress, knee-high boots and beret combo.
The pair dueted on hits including Vogue and Like A PrayerCredit: SuppliedThe crowds watched in awe as the superstars performed togetherCredit: YouTube/CoachellaIt marked 20 years after Madonna’s headline set at CoachellaCredit: YouTube/CoachellaSabrina shared pictures of her Coachella experience in a range of cute outfitsCredit: Instagram