National Security Adviser Wi Sung-lac, seen here at a press conference in Singapore on March 2, 2026, said Friday the passage of ships through the Strait of Hormuz still remains largely blocked. Photo by Yonhap
National Security Adviser Wi Sung-lac said Friday the passage of ships through the Strait of Hormuz still remains largely blocked despite a two-week ceasefire between the United States and Iran, pledging that South Korea would continue to seek alternative shipping lanes.
Speaking at a press briefing at Cheong Wa Dae, Wi stressed that the government will continue efforts to secure alternative supplies of crude oil and naphtha amid concerns over Iran’s continued restrictions on traffic through the vital waterway.
“Shipping through the Strait of Hormuz remains disrupted,” Wi said. “Uncertainty in the supply chains is likely to continue for the time being.”
Wi noted that the number of vessels crossing the strait has not increased significantly since the ceasefire was agreed to on Tuesday (U.S. time).
“If around 2,000 vessels trapped in the strait attempt to leave all at once, it can take time, and securing safe shipping routes may also pose a challenge,” he said.
The government will continue to communicate with relevant countries to ensure the safety of all vessels and crew members, including 26 Korean-flagged ships that remain stranded in the Strait of Hormuz.
Copyright (c) Yonhap News Agency prohibits its content from being redistributed or reprinted without consent, and forbids the content from being learned and used by artificial intelligence systems.
If you go with Option 1, you are taking the top four batters, in order, in the lineup of what was billed as the best team this country ever had to offer: the United States entry in the 2026 World Baseball Classic.
But, with the Dodgers off to another hot start, this would be an opportune moment for fans to take a step back from whatever concerns they might have about pitching depth and the injury list to appreciate the star-studded championship lineup of the home team.
Their opening day lineup started with Option 2. Betts is injured now, but the Dodgers just took a series from the defending American League champion Toronto Blue Jays without him. Twelve games into the season is a small sample, but no team has a better record than the Dodgers (9-3).
They lead the majors in batting average (.287), home runs (21) and OPS (.841). That OPS is the same as Tucker put up for the Chicago Cubs last season, which means their lineup essentially consists of nine guys putting up the OPS that earned Tucker a Dodgers contract for $60 million per year. (That won’t last, but the Dodgers did put up a .768 OPS over the full season last year, the best in the National League.)
Hall of Famer Pedro Martínez took to social media this week to call this “the best Dodgers team I’ve ever seen” and call the lineup “absolutely loaded.”
And, yes, the Dodgers lineup just might be better than the Team USA one.
“I’ll take our guys against anybody,” Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said. “How about that?”
The Dodgers’ lineup on opening day finished, in order, with Will Smith, Max Muncy, Teoscar Hernández, Andy Pages and Miguel Rojas. The Team USA lineup in the WBC championship game finished with Alex Bregman, Roman Anthony, Smith, Brice Turang and Byron Buxton.
“There were probably more accolades and all that on that USA team,” said Smith, the Dodgers’ catcher and the only man in both lineups. “It was more of an all-star team type of thing, the best guy at his position.”
In that Team USA lineup: five MVP awards and 28 All-Star appearances. In that Dodgers lineup: six MVP awards and 33 All-Star appearances.
Dino Ebel, the Dodgers’ third-base coach, throws batting practice as well. He coached for Team USA and threw batting practice there, too.
“I was like, ‘This lineup I’m throwing to is familiar to what I see every night for 162.’ Pretty cool,” he said. “You compare the Dodger lineup, all the way from 1 to 9, to Team USA, I thought we matched up pretty well.”
For the opinion of someone never employed by the Dodgers, I checked in with Blue Jays and Team USA infielder Ernie Clement.
“It’s tough to compare a WBC team with an actual MLB team,” Clement said. “The Dodgers have a really great lineup, obviously. I think they have learned how to win when they don’t have their best stuff. That’s what great teams do.
“Our lineup on Team USA was pretty stacked. It’s tough to do when you only play seven games. You don’t go through that whole grind of a season. The Dodgers have had the same guys on their team for quite some time, with some pieces added here and there. But, for the most part, they have those main guys that have been there and know each other really well.”
Those main guys are international stars now, Ohtani and the rest of his constellation. Everyone watches them. Everyone outside Los Angeles blames them — nothing personal, mind you, but as a symbol of the gaping financial disparity in baseball and a trigger for the almost certain lockout to follow the World Series.
Those four guys at the top of the Dodgers lineup — that Option 2 above — carry contracts worth a combined $1.5 billion. Would your team do that?
The thought that the Dodgers lineup matches up well against the Team USA lineup presents a marketing idea for Major League Baseball.
Of all the major sports, baseball boasts the one All-Star Game that has largely resisted gimmicks, but then again last year’s game ended with a home run derby. So why not lean into the Dodgers hate by turning this year’s All-Star Game into a Dodgers-against-the-world affair?
The game is in Philadelphia. Nowhere else do people boo like they do there.
And, if the Dodgers can match up with Team USA, they can take on the best lineup the other 29 major league teams have to offer.
Seriously, then, your 2026 All-Star Game: The Dodgers vs. Everybody Else.
Roberts laughed, but the twinkle in his eye was genuine.
THE crisis in Iran has had a knock-on effect around the world from the rising cost of fuel, an increase in energy bills, and where to go on your next holiday.
But when it comes to the price of summer breaks this year, the good news is that they’ve barely moved – and in some cases, the cost of holidays have even dropped by hundreds of pounds.
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Three destinations in Italy, including the Amalfi Coast, have seen price dropsCredit: Getty Holidays to the Dominican Republic have dropped by £130pp on averageCredit: Alamy
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On average holidays are up £23, but TravelSupermarket has also revealed that surprisingly, hundreds of popular destinations have actually seen prices fall.
TravelSupermarket has found that some holidays at certain destinations are actually cheaper than when the Iran conflict began.
Here are the top five destinations with the biggest price drops in the summer holidays based on a seven-night holiday between April and September, 2026.
At the very top with the biggest price drop is the Neapolitan Riviera in Italy.
Here, holidays are sitting at an average price of £905 per person, which has a price drop of £232.
It’s where you’ll find beautiful and colourful towns perched on clifftops – with spectacular views of Mount Vesuvius in some cases.
Specifically, it’s where you can explore the clifftops of Sorrento, the island of Capri and Ischia in the Bay of Naples.
Other places in Italy make it into the top five too – the Amalfi Coast and the Italian Lakes.
The Amalfi Coast is a popular destination with millions of tourists who flock there every summer for its great weather and tasty food.
Now, holidays on average there have dropped by £126 per person, with the average price of a break being £1,073.
At the Italian Lakes, which is where you’ll find the beautiful Lake Garda, Como, Maggiore and Orta – prices have dropped on average by £122pp.
Now, the average cost of a holiday here per person during the summer is £714.
For more on holidays, here are our favourite TUI breaks…
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Globales Montemar, Ibiza
This hotel sits on a quieter side of Ibiza, so you can soak up the island’s natural beauty away from the party crowds. This family-friendly option has a large pool that curves around the resort, surrounded by plenty of sunbeds, plus a kids zone. Here you’re just a 10-minute stroll from a horseshoe-shaped bay with clear waters.
This resort is set up like a small village, with low-rise buildings set among palm trees and six different swimming pools. Entertainment spans from DJ nights to bingo and live sports screenings, plus sports on offer include water polo, rifle shooting and shuffleboard.
This hotel sits on Majorca’s Cala Gran Beach, a beautiful cove just a short drive away from the coastal town centre, with its trinket shops and relaxed bars. The hotel itself has all the activities and entertainment you’d expect, including bingo and live music – as well as some unique extras like mini golf and archery. Week-long breaks start from £478pp.
The Riu Baobab is the only TUI hotel in the country, sat on the Pointe Sarane coastline. There are the four huge pools overlooking the beach, swim up pool bars and a copious amount of sunloungers to choose from. The sushi at the Asian Dorayaki and the pasta dishes at Veneto are the highlight meals of this standout hotel. Week-long breaks start from £883pp.
If you’re looking for a long-haul destination, check out the Dominican Republic.
TravelSupermarket worked out that the average holiday here is now £1,364pp – a drop of £130pp.
It has cracking weather, white sand beaches, beautiful resorts and lively towns like Punta Cana on the eastern side of the island.
The Dominican Republic is also the cheapest in the Caribbean – the average price of coffee is £1.53 and a meal at an inexpensive restaurant can start from £4.90, according to Wise.
In comparison, a meal in Barbados is around £14.50 and a coffee is around £3.32.
The Canary Island of La Palma is incredible affordable this summerCredit: Getty
Spain
If quick and easy holidays are more your bag for 2026, then check out La Palma.
It’s not the most well-known of the Canary Islands and is much quieter too.
It doesn’t have the enormous resorts, so if a calmer, nature-inspired holiday is on the cards, it’s a great option.
The main town is Santa Cruz La Palma which has bright coloured buildings, cobbled streets and wooden balconies that look over the black-sand beach.
Holidays here have dropped by £120 and can be on average as cheap as £474pp.
Chris Webber, Head of Holidays and Deals at TravelSupermarket, said: “Despite the current uncertainty, summer holiday prices haven’t moved dramatically — up by just £23 on average across all destinations.
“For holidaymakers sitting on the fence, that’s a signal worth paying attention to. Prices won’t stay like this indefinitely, and with so many destinations actually seeing prices fall — places like Majorca, Corfu and Turkey — now could be a smart time to book ahead of any increases.
“Holiday companies are keen to get bookings moving, and that’s likely filtering through into some very competitive pricing right now.”
These are the 20 holiday destinations that have fallen in price, according to TravelSupermarket…
Here are the 20 destinations that have fallen in price – and the average amount less per person…
A HISTORIC market in England is getting a massive revamp – and its in a town named one of the best places to live.
Founded back in 1170, Kingston’s Ancient Market is one of the oldest in London and even the entire UK.
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Kingston Ancient Market is set for a major revampCredit: ZAP ArchitectureUnder the new plans, there will be even more stalls that are like those in Borough Market in LondonCredit: AlamyThere will also be a roof terrace overlooking the historic squareCredit: Alamy
Today, it is home to about 30 local traders including fishmongers, a bakery and street food.
Plans have now been submitted to give the Kingston Market Square a major revamp turning the square into a ‘piazza’, with 45 new Borough Market-like stalls made from sustainable materials with solar panels on top.
The piazza would host pop-ups as well as farmers’ markets, weekend events and concerts too.
If the plans are approved, the Market House nearby would get a refurb as well with the ground floor turned into a restaurant and cafe and the first floor becoming an events space.
The statue of Queen Anne that currently sits in the square, will be relocated to the edge of the square too.
The planned revamp is also part of a bigger project to completely revive the area.
Since last year, Between the Bridges – the same operator as the Between the Bridges attraction on South Bank in London – has been operating the 800-year-old Kingston Ancient Market.
Throughout the year, the market usually hosts a number of different events including a Maker’s Market and Christmas market.
The market is open every day from 10am to 5pm.
One recent visitor said: “The market is charming, and offers some very nice gourmet foods, both to take home and dine out for lunch.
“Great atmosphere, particularly in the lead up to Christmas when it really comes alive with a kind of German Christmas market feel and the smell of mulled wine fills the air.”
If plans are approved, the ‘piazza’ will also host a number of pop-up eventsCredit: ZAP Architecture
Our favourite UK hotels
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Margate House, Kent
This stylish boutique hotel is in a seaside townhouse, a short walk from Margate’s coolest bars and restaurants. Decked out with plush velvet sofas, candles flickering and striking independent art, inside feels like a warm welcome home. Rooms are stunning, especially the ones that give you a glimpse of the sea.
The Alan looks extremely grand, being built into a beautiful Grade II listed building. Spread across six floors, with 137 rooms, each one looks like a fancy design magazine. From the concrete coffee tables to the pink plastered walls, the industrial-inspired designs perfectly replicate the history of the city.
This historic hotel has welcomed the likes of Charles Dickens and Lillie Langtry through its doors. Rooms have richly-patterned carpets with super soft bed linen and premium toiletries in the bathroom. Go for a superior room for extra goodies including bathrobes and snack boxes.
This Cambridge hotel is in the ideal spot, within walking distance to bars, shops and hotspots like the university colleges and Parker’s Piece. The inside couldn’t be prettier, with huge stained glass windows, grand chandeliers, and rooms with enormous clawfoot bath tubs.
“The historic square is also a delightful place surrounded by beautiful and historic buildings.”
Last year, Kingston was also named the second best place to live in the UK by The Times.
The Better Lives Index, which is produced by the International Longevity Centre (ILC) think tank, ranks the authorities across the UK based on nine categories.
Categories include life expectancy at birth, the child poverty rate, pollution, disposable income, housing costs, ‘avoidable’ mortality, life expectancy at 65, economic activity for over-16s and economic inactivity of 50 to 64-year-olds.
If visiting the market or Kingston, make sure to head to the edge of the market square where you will find All Saints Church, which dates back to 1120.
Last year, Kingston was named one of the best places to live by The TimesCredit: Alamy
Venture through the town too, where you can peruse a number of independent shops and grab a bite to eat at one of the restaurants right next to the river.
Tehran, Iran – The head of Iran’s top science and engineering university believes that the United States and Israel are targeting symbols of Iran’s progress as a nation, and not merely hitting the governing establishment.
The Sharif University of Technology in Tehran was bombed on Monday, destroying and damaging multiple buildings, including what was described by the authorities as an artificial intelligence centre housing critical databases. The university’s website and other online services went dark.
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“We believe the reason the enemy targeted these buildings and destroyed the entire infrastructure is that it did not want us to achieve AI technology,” university President Masoud Tajrishi said, adding that the higher education facility had been working on training AI models in Persian for two years and provided services to hundreds of companies.
“The enemy does not want us to succeed or have development and progress, but all our universities are united now by these attacks,” he said at the site of the bombing on Tuesday. Minutes later, another attack targeted the capital, with low-flying cruise missiles visible over downtown Tehran and air defence guns activated.
Tajrishi also said that no country had been prepared to provide Iran with the knowledge and know-how to work on AI technology due to US sanctions and competitive advantages, so all of the research was done domestically.
The US and Israel have not provided an official reason for targeting Iran’s main higher education hubs or cultural heritage sites, which are considered civilian infrastructure. No casualties were reported inside Sharif since all school and university classes are being taken online, but more than 2,000 people have been killed during the war.
The strike on the top university, which was founded six decades ago, came after a string of similar air raids targeting research centres inside other prominent facilities, including the century-old Pasteur Institute, a photonics lab at Shahid Beheshti University and a satellite development lab at the Science and Technology University.
More than 30 universities have been affected by US and Israeli attacks since the start of the war on February 28, Iran’s minister of science, research and technology, Hossein Simaei Saraf, told Al Jazeera last week.
The attacks prompted the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) to declare US and Israeli-affiliated universities “legitimate targets”.
Mohammad Hossein Omid, president of Tehran University, wrote a letter on behalf of 15 top university heads last week, urging the IRGC to refrain from attacking other universities in order to show that Tehran is committed to safeguarding higher education facilities anywhere as “human and global heritage” entities.
However, he has since shifted his position and demanded retaliatory attacks in kind after a huge backlash from local hardline media.
The US and Israel have continued to attack across Iran, targeting the country’s infrastructure, hours ahead of US President Donald Trump’s deadline for Iran to capitulate to his demands. The Israeli military has already on Tuesday hit Iran’s railway network, but Trump has threatened to bomb critical civilian infrastructure, such as the country’s main power plants and bridges, which would constitute a violation of international law.
Trump said “a whole civilisation will die tonight” in Iran, with the comment coming days after the country’s steel factories and petrochemical manufacturers were extensively targeted in another move that will affect all of Iran’s population of more than 90 million. He boasted that it would take 20 years for Iran to rebuild if Washington were to withdraw today, but it could take 100 years to rebuild if the war continues.
A sign in front of Tehran’s damaged Sharif University says ‘Trump’s help has arrived’ [Maziar Motamedi/Al Jazeera]
Hitting Iran or the Islamic Republic?
Inside the Sharif University on Tuesday, a mathematics professor held an online class inside the remains of a bombed building as a show of defiance and continuity.
Placards placed nearby by the authorities read, “Trump’s help has arrived.”
This was in reference to repeated claims by the US president and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that they wish to “help” the Iranian people overthrow the Islamic Republic, which came to power after a 1979 revolution but has faced nationwide protests in recent years.
But the increasing systematic targeting of civilian infrastructure has caused deep concerns among many Iranians, especially since the country was already dealing with a host of issues before the war, including economic woes and an energy crisis.
“It was a strange feeling waking up in the morning and seeing your university attacked, not to mention the terror of feeling you might not have electricity to check anything tomorrow,” said a Shahid Beheshti student, who asked to remain anonymous.
“If you can justify attacks on power plants, steel, petrochemicals, bridges, universities and science institutes, you can justify anything,” he told Al Jazeera.
The civilian infrastructure attacks have also prompted local media to lash out against foreign-based Iranians, some of whom have supported US and Israeli attacks in the hope that they would lead to the toppling of the governing establishment of military, political, and theocratic leaders.
The Fars news agency, affiliated with the IRGC, claimed on Tuesday that the attack on Sharif University could not have been possible without “betrayal” from dissidents abroad. It accused Ali Sharifi Zarchi, a top former professor-turned-dissident at Sharif, of leaking the coordinates of the bombed centre, without providing evidence.
Sharifi Zarchi pointed out in a tweet in response that the centre was marked on Google Maps, and said that while he unequivocally condemns the targeting of universities and other civilian sites, “the aim of any attacks should be the overthrow of the Islamic Republic regime, which has held the Iranian people hostage through repression, mass killings, and internet shutdowns.”
The professor circulated a letter published in a number of nongovernment student groups on Tuesday, which also condemned the US and Israeli attacks but said that the establishment was responsible for pursuing policies that put it on a collision course with the two countries and their allies.
“Our people want to work, to study, to breathe, to have access to the internet, and to build their own future,” the students wrote. “Minds that leave do not return. A girl who is detained no longer studies. A child whose school is bombed does not grow up. The cost of these losses will be paid by all of our futures – including those who benefit from this divide today.”
TAMWORTH may not be top of many tourists’ to-do lists, but it boasts the best boozer, a kids-go-free castle and even a chance to ski on real snow, all within staggering distance of each other.
I’m lucky that this Midlands marvel is only half an hour from me, so I headed over to check out all the things that make the town a perfect day trip destination this year.
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Travel writer Catherine Lofthouse Tamwork, which features Britain’s best boozer, a kids-go-free castle and even a chance to ski on real snow, all within staggering distance of each otherCredit: Catherine LofthousePoppies and thistles on the River Anker riverbank in Tamworth, StaffordshireCredit: Getty
It’s been ages since I last visited Tamworth Castle, a landmark feature in the centre of town, still standing tall on its original motte.
It’s just announced that it’s the latest visitor attraction to join the Blue Peter scheme, which means that kids who’ve earned a badge from the beloved TV show can get in free.
We were absolutely amazed by all the different eras of history showcased at the castle, a fascinating snapshot of its own journey through time.
What I really loved though was the recreated Saxon mead hall with fount-of-knowledge volunteer guide Ralph on hand to bring history to life and chat to us about the Staffordshire Hoard, a huge stash of Saxon riches discovered by a metal detectorist on a farmer’s field in 2009.
The hoard was split between three Midlands museums and Tamworth makes the most of the sparkling specimens it received in its Battle and Tribute exhibition.
We love a castle and have visited many of the biggest and best, like Warwick and Windsor, but Tamworth gives them a run for their money in terms of immersive experiences for children and offering up history in easy-to-understand bite-size chunks.
One thing that Tamworth really has going for it is the greenery of the Castle Grounds right in its centre.
This open-to-all public space has a fab castle-themed playground, a skate park, tennis courts and a cafe.
It is bordered by indoor attractions like Namco Funscape, which includes bowling, softplay and adventure golf, and the SnowDome, where visitors can ski, skate, climb and swim.
My boys love taking to the slopes and a firm family favourite here is the snow fun park, where you can play in the white stuff all year round.
The pool offers flumes and floats sessions for families.
A summer view of Tamworth castle and gardensCredit: AlamyThe Tamworth Tap in Staffordshire, run by George Greenaway, which was voted one of the best pubs in BritainCredit: Paul Tonge
If you have a Blue Light Card, you can often get money off and it’s always worth checking out the deals section of the SnowDome website, as you can bag a bargain at quieter times of the year.
We rounded up our visit with a trip to the Tamworth Tap, which has just been named pub of the year by the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) for the third time.
It’s the first pub to win this award three times, so it was no surprise to find it already bustling with barely a table to spare within half an hour of its opening on a Friday afternoon.
You won’t be able to bring the kids in here, as it’s over-18s only, but if you’re visiting with older kids who are happy to enjoy the skate park, which is only a two-minute walk away, you can sneak in for a cheeky pint and a portion of £4 frickles – pickles fried in breadcrumbs.
If you’re here in the warmer months, the pub’s beer garden certainly has one of the best views in the town, overlooked by its castle neighbour.
April is a great time to visit the town, with a dragon egg hunt around the castle over the school holidays and then a free medieval festival to mark St George’s Day in the park on April 18, with jousting, archery, games and fairground rides.
Just outside Tamworth, there’s plenty of family-friendly visitor attractions a short drive away where you can easily while away a day if you’re making a weekend of it.
As well as visiting the animals, Twycross also has the Gruffalo Discovery Land, which is great for little ones, while both Drayton Manor and Statfold are perfect for train fans and anyone who loves fairground and theme park rides.
Drayton, which hosts Thomas Land, has just celebrated its 75th anniversary by installing a lake lights show, while Statfold recently opened the National Fairground Museum, so visitors can now enjoy vintage fairground rides as well as steam and diesel trains.
With a hoard of hidden gems of its own, this Staffordshire treasure has a wealth of wonders just waiting to be discovered.
Catherine’s son at Tamworth SnowDome, where visitors can ski, skate, climb and swimCredit: Catherine LofthouseEThe G Force Rollercoaster within Drayton Manor Theme Park near TamworthCredit: Alamy
Hull — once crowned Britain’s biggest dump in the book Crap Towns — is suddenly being talked about as one of the world’s hottest holiday spots.
National Geographic has stuck the northern port city on its list of top 20 global places to visit in 2026, right up there with Manila, Beijing and even Route 66.
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Inside Hull – the ‘crap UK town’ that’s tipped to be as one of the world’s hottest holiday spotsCredit: Visit Hull and East Yorkshire / Jack Gray PhotographyPrincess Quay and Ferens Art Gallery in the city of HullCredit: Getty
So, on a soggy halfterm, I grabbed my eleven-year-old son and headed north for 48 hours to see whether Hull’s new swagger stacks up — or whether the UK’s former “snoring capital” is still a total snooze.
It might look out on a limb on the map, but Hull’s a breeze to reach — direct trains from London take just two and a half hours. And once you’re there, it’s all ridiculously walkable, with every major sight just a short stroll away.
We checked into the Hideout Hotel, a slick set of self-catered apartments in the city centre, then dashed across the road to the mighty Hull Minster.
The 13th century church — and the cobbled Old Town around it — somehow survived the Blitz while 95 per cent of Hull’s homes were flattened.
Locals say Luftwaffe pilots used the Minster’s spire as a handy marker as they crossed the North Sea – so didn’t destroy it.
Hull’s Old Town is a proper gem: narrow lanes and alleyways filled with cosy pubs like WM Hawkes, The Lion & Key and The Sailmakers Arms, and The George Hotel — the city’s oldest boozer — which proudly shows off England’s smallest window. Well worth looking into.
While grownups can tackle the famous Ale Trail, we went for the family-friendly Fish Trail — a quirky hunt for 41 bits of fish art hidden around the city. It’s free, fun and worth doing… just for the halibut.
For the real thing, we headed to “The Deep”.
Hull’s futuristic aquarium sits on the estuary and houses more than 5,000 sea creatures, underwater tunnels, a glass lift shooting up through a giant ocean tank, rays, turtles, jellyfish and sawfish that look like hedge trimmers with fins — plus a colony of adorable Gentoo penguins.
It’s immersive, educational and perfect for a rainy day.
A five-minute wander takes you to the Fruit Market, once a derelict warehouse district and now a buzzing hub of indie shops, bars and cool cafés.
We tucked into topnotch tapas at Ambiente — prawns and anchovies included, despite having just admired their cousins at The Deep — washed down with a crisp, bone-dry sherry.
The Fruit Market, once a derelict warehouse district and now a buzzing hub of indie shops, bars and cool cafés.Credit: Visit Hull and East Yorkshire / Jack Gray PhotographyThe Hideout Hotel, a slick set of self-catered apartments in the city centreCredit: Visit Hull and East Yorkshire / Jack Gray Photography
Next morning we returned for a hearty breakfast at Thieving Harry’s, a hipster hangout with great coffee, brunch and the odd DJ night.
Then it was on to the Museum Quarter — three brilliant, totally free museums in one neat cluster.
The Streetlife Museum dives into Hull’s transport past with vintage trams, retro arcades and a wartime high street.
Both are cracking fun.
Then came Wilberforce House, birthplace of Hull’s most famous son, William Wilberforce — the MP who led the charge to abolish slavery.
The museum tackles the transatlantic slave trade, the fight to end it and its legacy today.
It’s incredibly powerful, thoughtful and handled with real care — not just suitable for kids, but essential.
Culture continued at the Ferens Art Gallery, one of Britain’s top regional galleries, before some light relief at Dinsdales Joke Shop — a gloriously chaotic treasure trove of whoopee cushions, itching powder and fake poo.
It’s been going since the 1930s, making it the oldest joke shop in the country.
“People in Hull are a unique bunch,” owner Angela Dinsdale told us.
“There’s loads of culture and history — it’s quirky, friendly and there’s plenty for tourists to do.”
And there’s more coming.
A £70m Maritime Project is about to drop anchor: the docks have been revamped, the Maritime Museum reopens later this year, and both the Arctic Corsair trawler — “Hull’s Cutty Sark” — and the Spurn Lightship have been restored to their former glory.
And Hull’s star power doesn’t stop at penguins, ports and pubs.
The city can now brag about producing one of Britain’s hottest acting talents — Robert Aramayo, who is Hull born-and-bred and enrolled at Hull’s Truck Youth Theatre at the age of 11.
The local lad stunned Hollywood this year by beating Leonardo DiCaprio, Timothée Chalamet and Michael B. Jordan to scoop Best Actor at this year’s BAFTAs.
Nearly a decade after being crowned UK City of Culture, there’s never been a better time to go to Hull and back.
Dinsdales Joke Shop — a gloriously chaotic treasure trove of whoopee cushions, itching powder and fake pooCredit: Visit Hull and East Yorkshire / Jack Gray PhotographyThe Ferens Art Gallery, one of Britain’s top regional galleriesCredit: Visit Hull and East Yorkshire / Jack Gray Photography
Tehran says it will respond ‘in kind’ to any attacks on its infrastructure, warns Trump threats an ‘incitement to war crimes’.
At least 34 people have been killed, including six children, as the United States and Israel carried out massive attacks across Iran, targeting a top university as well as residential areas, after US President Donald Trump set a Tuesday deadline for Tehran to fully reopen the Strait of Hormuz or face strikes on its power plants and bridges.
The Fars news agency reported on Monday that an air attack killed 23 people, including four girls and two boys aged below 10 years, in Tehran province’s Baharestan County.
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At least five people were killed in an attack on a residential building in the city of Qom, according to the political and security deputy of the governor, Morteza Heydari. Six others were killed in Bandar-e Lengeh, in southern Iran, authorities said.
At least a dozen cities were hit across Iran, including Bandar Abbas, Ahvaz, Mahshahr, Shiraz, Isfahan and Karaj.
US-Israeli strikes also hit Sharif University in Tehran, one of Iran’s leading scientific universities, often compared with the US’s Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). Al Jazeera’s Tohid Asadi, reporting from Tehran, said the facility was severely hit, with extensive damage reported in the compound’s mosque and laboratories.
“The Sharif area has witnessed other attacks, including one on a gas facility,” Asadi said, adding that other civil facilities, including roads, power plants and bridges were also targeted across Iran.
“Iran’s Ministry of Science and Technology told us that at least 30 universities have been hit” since the beginning of the war on February 28, he said.
Iran vows retaliatory attacks
The attacks follow Trump’s expletive-laden threat on Truth Social, demanding that Iran reopen the Strait of Hormuz or face “hell”. Iran has warned of retaliatory attacks, saying it will respond “in kind” to any attacks on its infrastructure, with senior officials condemning the president’s remarks as an “incitement to war crimes”. The strait, through which some 20 percent of global oil and gas passes, has been under effective blockade by Iran in response to the war.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei said Iranians were unfazed by Trump’s threats and that they would not be forced into any unfavourable deal. He said Trump’s statements were “an indication of a criminal mindset” and amounted to an “incitement to war crimes and crimes against humanity”.
Baghaei also warned that Iran would respond to any attacks on its infrastructure by launching similar attacks in the region.
Ali Akbar Velayati, an adviser to Iran’s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei, said a single misstep by either country could severely disrupt global energy flows and international trade.
Velayati added that while the US has learned certain lessons from Iran’s history, it “has yet to understand the geography of power”.
Meanwhile, Israel also faced several missile attacks, with alarms going off in parts of the country. According to the official Israeli radio station, four volleys of Iranian missiles were launched in the early morning hours on Tuesday.
Rescue workers pulled two bodies from the rubble of a building struck in Haifa, while two residents remained missing.
Ambulance and civil defence services reported several injuries, some serious, in more than 20 locations, including Tel Aviv, Petah Tikva and Ramat Gan.
The Ynet News outlet said a 34-year-old woman was “seriously injured” by interceptor missiles in Petah Tikva.
The Channel 2 broadcaster published images of smoke rising over Gush Dan and Bnei Brak, as well as a video of minor damage to a building in Tel Aviv.
The box office hit a power-up this weekend, as “The Super Mario Galaxy Movie” continued a healthy streak for family films in theaters.
The animated sequel from Universal Pictures, Nintendo and Illumination raced to $190 million in the U.S. and Canada in its five-day holiday weekend debut, placing it solidly in first place, according to studio estimates and Comscore data. That total was in line with expectations of a $186-million domestic opening.
Globally, the film earned $372.5 million, the largest opening so far in 2026.
The first film based on the video game franchise, “The Super Mario Bros. Movie,” made $146.4 million in its 2023 debut.
“The Super Mario Galaxy Movie,” which had a production budget of $110 million, continues the story of iconic Nintendo characters Mario, Luigi and Princess Peach as they journey to rescue Princess Rosalina.
Amazon MGM’s “Project Hail Mary” came in second at the box office with a domestic total of $30.7 million – pushing its total to $217 million. A24’s “The Drama ($14.4 million), Disney’s “Hoppers” ($5.8 million) and Universal’s “Reminders of Him ($2.2 million) rounded out the top five.
The success of “Mario” this weekend is another example of the power of family films at the box office.
Animated movies like Sony Pictures Animation’s “Goat” and Walt Disney Co. and Pixar’s “Hoppers” have performed well in theaters this year, along with the strong holdover performance of Disney’s 2025 hit “Zootopia 2,” which has now made more than $1.87 billion worldwide.
That’s all contributed to a stronger first quarter in the theatrical business, as this year’s revenue was up more than 20% compared with the same period in 2025. March was especially strong, with the massive haul from “Project Hail Mary.”
Mariners left-hander Gabe Speier (0-2) walked Zach Neto intentionally to open the bottom of the 11th, and both runners advanced on Oswald Peraza’s sacrifice bunt.
Schanuel, who grounded into a double play with runners on first and third to end the eighth, lofted a fly ball to left fielder Randy Arozarena, whose throw home was off line.
Shaun Anderson (1-0) struck out Cal Raleigh with the bases loaded to end the top of the 11th. Anderson gave up a run in two innings.
Mike Trout, who doubled and scored in the third, exited in the eighth after being hit on the left hand by Casey Legumina’s 94-mph fastball. X-rays were negative, and Trout is listed as day-to-day.
The teams exchanged runs in the 10th, Seattle scoring on Randy Arozarena’s single and the Angels (5-5) on Logan O’Hoppe’s sacrifice fly.
The Angels were one out away from victory in the top of the ninth when Raleigh blooped a two-out double and Julio Rodríguez poked Sam Bachman’s 91-mph slider to left for a single and a 6-6 tie. Mariners closer Andres Munoz threw a 1-2-3 bottom of the ninth.
Cole Young hit a three-run homer to give the Mariners (4-6) a 5-4 lead in the fifth, but Jo Adell and Frazier drove in runs with singles in the home half.
Seattle’s Leo Rivas hit a two-run single in the second.
Jorge Soler hit RBI singles in the first and third before the Angels took a 4-2 lead in the fourth when Josh Lowe scored on Rivas’ fielding error at third and Schanuel hit a two-out RBI single.
Up next for Angels: José Soriano (2-0, 0.00 ERA) will oppose Atlanta’s Chris Sale (2-0, 0.75 ERA) at home Monday to kick off a three-game set.
SCREEN star Sydney Sweeney is backed for the next 007 film — not as a Bond girl, but a girl Bond.
Hollywood director Paul Feig believes she would be perfect as the British spy.
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Film star Sydney Sweeney has been backed for the next 007 filmCredit: GettyA Hollywood director believes Sydney would be perfect for the role of BondCredit: Getty
Asked about a glamour role for her in the next movie, he insisted: “I’d rather Sydney be the next Bond.
“There have been some cool Bond girls, but come on, let her be the super-spy, she’s great.”
Paul, who was behind the camera for Sydney’s latest hit The Housemaid, added: “She’s one of the hardest-working people I know, so professional, so smart, so savvy. I think she’d be a good spy.”
American Sydney, 28 — who posted a selfie in an ivory dress on Instagram at the weekend — last year told of her interest in Bond after the franchise was bought by Amazon MGM.
Dune’s Denis Villeneuve will direct the next 007 film, written by Peaky Blinders’ creator Steven Knight.
Daniel Craig as James Bond in 2008’s Quantum Of Solace with Olga KurylenkoCredit: Kobal Collection – ShutterstockSydney with Hollywood director Paul FeigCredit: GettySydney posted this snap of her in an ivory dress on InstaCredit: Instagram/Sydney Sweeney
Remember when our president attacked a female journalist for asking uncomfortable questions with a casual, sincere, “Quiet, piggy”?
That was five months ago, a lifetime in the chaos of the Trump administration, but it was a telling moment about how not just our president but those crafting his policy view women and their place in society. Hint: It’s not at the top.
While I have not a bit of pity or dismay that Pam Bondi and Kristi Noem — the former U.S. attorney general and the former secretary of Homeland Security, respectively — were given the ax by President Trump in recent days, it shouldn’t be lost that this is another “quiet, piggy” week in an administration that is increasingly openly hostile to women in power.
When democracies decay, and especially when movements like Christian nationalism rise, an erosion of women’s equality almost always comes first. Bondi and Noem are part of a U.S. erosion that should alarm us all, whatever your gender identity.
First, the obvious. Good riddance. Noem seemed to relish cruelty, and treated her job like a costume party, constantly mugging for cameras with guns and faux toughness as if the dismantling of lives and imprisoning even children was a game. Never mind the grift.
Bondi, meanwhile, always seemed like the football team’s third-favorite cheerleader, desperately vying for the attention of the jock-gods around her, even if it meant groveling for approval, even if it meant selling out all women with her ultimate censoring of the Epstein files.
But while Bondi and Noem were obviously incompetent, incompetence has never been a fire-able offense for Trump. Just ask Pete Hegseth, whose Thor fantasies are currently playing out in an all-to-real war. Or Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who has dismantled American science while glorifying beef tallow and workouts in jeans. Don’t even get me started on Kash Patel.
It’s no accident that women at the top of Trump’s administration are being purged. They were useful in the first days of the regime, while power was still being consolidated and shimmers of diversity were helpful. But as the sexist and racist nature of the MAGA machine has gained mainstream acquiescence if not acceptance, the need to keep up the appearance of diversity is less and less.
Take, for example, the far-right attacks on Supreme Court Justice Amy Coney Barrett after her pointed and skeptical questions recently on Trump’s attempt to end birthright citizenship.
This is the same Texas gentleman who went viral recently for proclaiming, “Women, shut up! Of course. It is literally an offense to God” for women to have influence in the governing of society.
He’s also part of a group of far-right religious leaders — including a pastor associated with Hegseth — who support ending women’s right to vote and replacing it with a single “household” vote cast by, you guessed it, men.
Bondi and Noem may be the most high-profile examples of how this misogyny is playing out in MAGA reality, but they aren’t the only women forced out of power by Trump and his cronies this year. It’s a push that is far more systematic and insidious than we are giving them credit for. Hegseth has all but wiped women out of the top ranks of the military — just recently personally knocking two women off a promotions list.
RFK Jr. and others, meanwhile, are busy pushing women out of science. The Washington Post pointed out that last year at this time, the feds purged women and people of color from the boards that review the science and research happening at the National Institutes of Health— 38 out of 43 experts that were fired were women and minorities.
A report out last month also found that all those attacks on universities last year, with the cutting of grants even in areas such as cancer research — disproportionately affected female scientists. Many of these female scientists, especially younger ones, will never recover from those quashed research projects and lost jobs in a field that demands results and published work, meaning we are looking at a generational loss of female scientific talent.
And let’s not forget Renee Nicole Good, shot by an ICE officer in Minneapolis who, with as much casualness as Trump’s “quiet, piggy,” said “f—ing b—” after shooting her and walking away.
Bondi and Noem aren’t just unqualified villains shown the door. They are villainesses.
The Trump administration knows the difference, and so should we.
JONATHAN ROSS has gone up in my estimations after his recent good deed.
I can reveal that the veteran TV presenter splashed out £25,000 on a car for a contestant who took part in his latest Channel 4 gameshow.
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Jonathan Ross splashed out £25,000 on a car for a contestant who took part in his latest Channel 4 gameshowCredit: Channel 4
Handcuffed: Last Pair Standing saw two people from different walks of life chained together 24/7 for the chance to win £100,000.
But when North London barmaid Tilly Martin lost out on a share of the mega prize money, Wossy took pity on her.
The kind-hearted dad-of-three, who is worth £30million, bought Tilly – who spends her spare time feeding the homeless – a Ford Puma once filming for the show wrapped.
A source said: “Tilly still lives with her mum and was really living hand-to-mouth.
“Jonathan felt bad for Tilly after she lost out, so he quietly paid for a new car out of his own money to help get her on her feet. It was a little out of the ordinary but Jonathan just wanted to help and could see that a vehicle would make her life a little easier.
“He didn’t want anyone to know about his kind gesture, he just wanted to help – especially as she gave so much time to homeless people in the capital.”
In the show, Tilly was handcuffed to eccentric millionaire classic car businessman Anthony Saxon Kearsley.
She said on the show: “If I won a share of £100,000, to me, that’s lottery money.
“I think Britain is divided. You’re either really, really rich or you’re on your a**hole
“I work three jobs. I think when people first meet me, they think, ‘Oh, she’s a bit much’. I swear quite a bit. It just happens.”
The Angels celebrated their 2026 home opener on Friday, and the fans booed the ceremonial first pitch.
Magic Johnson, the Dodgers’ co-owner and the foremost winner in Los Angeles sports history, threw out the ceremonial first pitch before the Dodgers’ opener. Jeff Kent, just elected to the Hall of Fame, did the honors for the San Francisco Giants.
In Anaheim, John Carpino tossed the first pitch, even with popular alumni such as Torii Hunter and Tim Salmon in the house. Carpino is the Angels’ president, retiring Monday after 16 years in that role and 23 years in all as a loyal executive under Angels owner Arte Moreno.
Moreno thought it would be lovely for Carpino to throw out the first pitch and, under different circumstances, it would have been.
So Carpino, as a proxy for Moreno, was booed loudly. Then a few modest choruses of “sell the team” broke out.
Behind the Angels’ dugout, Dave and Chris Bloye of Upland wore red T-shirts. His shirt listed five priorities, in order: Affordability, good experience, safety, peanuts, fan surveys. Her shirt listed five priorities too, starting with “sell the team.” The Bloyes said they have had season tickets for more than 20 years.
“We’ve never had a survey,” Chris Bloye said.
Moreno is competitive, a hardcore fan who regularly attends even spring training games. Perhaps he did not mean his words to come out the way they did.
Moreno declined an interview request from The Times at the owners’ meetings in February. A team spokesman said last week that Moreno would pass on an opportunity to clarify his remarks about fan priorities.
But, if those were indeed the priorities, they would have been reflected by the fans that showed up more than six hours before game time for the free fan festival the Angels throw before the home opener every year.
Surely, the man in the jersey that read “FAN SINCE 81” and the Angels tattoo on his left leg would be here win or lose.
Angels fans stand in front of the stadium before the team’s home opener against the Seattle Mariners on Friday night.
(Ronald Martinez / Getty Images)
Yes, Jose Bocanegra of Chino said, he would be. But for Moreno to say winning was not a top fan priority?
“That’s crazy,” Bocanegra said. “If you’re not in it to win it, then what are we doing?”
How about the fan in the Nolan Ryan jersey? He held his 7-year-old daughter atop his shoulders. She wore a Mike Trout jersey, smiled broadly, and clutched a cup of ice cream.
His name was Nate Ryan, from Hemet. He and his daughter attend Dodgers and Angels games, but they particularly like visits to Angel Stadium. His daughter loves the rally monkey and the free games in the Pac-Man arcade, and he appreciates Moreno’s focus on affordability.
“The Angels are more economical,” Ryan said. “We have a good time.”
Jarod Venegas of Corona dressed in a white wrap, wearing a red cap topped by a gold halo. He was about to spend nine innings as — you guessed it — an angel in the outfield.
“I believe we have a team that can be the best,” he said.
What exactly do you mean by best?
“I mean World Series champions,” he said.
Venegas had something to say about fan priorities.
“Winning is our No. 2 priority,” he said. “No. 1 is getting a new owner.”
Johnny Estrada of Corona wore a T-shirt with eight lines on the back. All eight lines read the same: “Sell the team.”
He said he loves the team, supports the players, and does not believe Moreno chose his words poorly.
“I don’t necessarily feel it came out wrong,” Estrada said. “I feel he hasn’t cared for a while.”
Anaheim Mayor Ashleigh Aitken, who remains irked by Moreno branding the team with a Los Angeles name, has been a season-ticket holder far longer than she has been mayor. She’ll give Moreno a pass on his comments.
“I think it was a misstep,” Aitken said. “I’m willing to give him the benefit of the doubt. He knows that winning, for a true fan, is one of the most important things. Winning is a priority for our players. Winning is a priority to the loyal fan base.”
Even more so, perhaps, to the casual fans, the ones that determine whether the Angels sell three million tickets in any given year.
The Angels sold 2.6 million tickets last year, a testament to the strength of the market amid a second consecutive last-place finish.
The “Big A” sign outside Angel Stadium on Friday during the team’s home opener.
(Ronald Martinez / Getty Images)
However, attendance has fallen 20% over the past 20 years, a span that includes one postseason series victory and the current streaks of 10 seasons with losing records and 11 seasons without a playoff appearance.
Friday’s home opener was sold out. However, as of Friday afternoon, resale markets listed tickets for as little as $7 for Saturday’s game and $4 for Sunday’s game.
This is a great fan base, to me much more frustrated than angry, waiting to erupt in joy. The fan festival was dominated by fans wearing “sell” jerseys but a variety of Trout jerseys — home white, road gray, alternate red, City Connect, All-Star, World Baseball Classic, even one from the Salt Lake Bees.
Trout’s loyalty has been reciprocated by the fans. Moreno could feel that love too, with a renewed commitment to the excellence the Angels he displayed in his first decade as owner.
In Anaheim, the thunder sticks were glorious. Moreno does not want to sell at the moment, so best to demonstrate a dedication to returning October to the Angels’ schedule, lest their fans take home their giveaway calendars from the home opener and start the countdown to “wait ‘til next year.”
Journalist and Editor Samantha Bartlett happened to stumble upon an iconic 1999 episode of Top of the Pops recently, and one thing left her floored after watching it
Samantha Bartlett Assistant Editor, Social News
06:02, 03 Apr 2026
I watched Top of The Pops episode from 1999 and 1 thing struck me
The weekly broadcast of Top of the Pops (TOTP) officially ended on 30 July 2006. The iconic British music show concluded its 42-year run with a special final edition, titled “The Final Countdown,” which featured a mix of archival performances and a final chart rundown.
However, despite not being around for a decade, repeats of the show are still shown on BBC Four on Friday nights. I was one of the people tuning in last Friday and happened to stumble upon an iconic 1999 episode of Top of the Pops presented by Gail Porter. Being a 90s baby, I love a bit of cheesy pop, but as they went through the chart countdown I was struck by how many absolute tunes and iconic bands were in there.
At number 12 was Backstreet Boys with ‘I Want It That Way’, followed by the very silly but iconic ‘Doodah!’ From Cartoons at 11.
Number 10 was The Chemical Brothers’ ‘Hey Boy, Hey Girl’, while number 9 was also boyband favourite – N-Sync’s ‘Tearin’ Up My Heart’.
At number 8 was Shanks + Bigfoot ‘Sweet Like Chocolate’, while at 7 was Baz Luhrmann’s ‘Everybody’s Free (To Wear Sunscreen)’.
Number 6 was another iconic tune, with Shania Twain’s ‘That Don’t Impress Me Much’, while the fifth position was taken by Adam Rickitt’s ‘I Breathe Again’.
Madonna’s ‘Beautiful Stranger’ was then at number 4, while Britney Spears took the third spot with ‘Sometimes’.
Just missing out on the top spot at number 2 was S Club 7s ‘Bring It All Back’, meanwhile at number 1 was one other than Vengaboys ‘Boom, Boom, Boom, Boom!!’, that no doubt all you fellow 90s babies jumped around to in your bedroom.
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I actually couldn’t believe how many iconic acts and tunes were just in those 12 slots. I mean, I know some of them are cheesy, however, many of those songs were massive UK hits where literally everyone, including your gran, would know all the words.
I was so struck by the clip I decided to share it to my TikTok,
I just find it quite sad that shows like Top Of The Pops were huge back then and listening to the chart with part of your weekly routine.
I remember I used to go round my nan’s with my dad and sister on a Sunday so me and my sister would always run out to the car and listen to the radio to find out what was number one. Now I don’t think anyone really cares apart from maybe the artist themselves and their record label.
It just feels like a lot of fun has gone out of today’s music and charts and there doesn’t seem many good pop bands around for kids, apart from all the K-Pop stuff that is big at the moment.
The only pop bands that seem to do well these days are those 90s ones that come back for a revival, such as Blue or Take That.
I’m not sure if it’s all to do with money and that labels just aren’t putting the money behind bands and acts anymore or what but I certainly miss the glory days and am glad I have all the memories from my favourite 90s acts.
WASHINGTON — Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has asked the Army’s top uniformed officer, Gen. Randy George, to step down, the Pentagon said Thursday, as the United States wages a war against Iran.
A Pentagon official, who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss the sensitive matter, confirmed that George has been asked to take early retirement from the post of Army chief of staff, which he has held since August 2023.
The ouster of George is just the latest of more than a dozen firings of top generals and admirals by Hegseth since he first took office last year.
CBS News was first to report the ouster.
George is a graduate of West Point Military Academy and an infantry officer who served in the first Gulf War as well as Iraq and Afghanistan. He also served as Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin’s top military aide from 2021 to 2022, during the Biden administration, before taking on top leadership roles in the Army.
George survived the initial round of firings last February, which saw the removal of top military leaders, including Adm. Lisa Franchetti, the Navy’s top uniformed officer, and Gen. Jim Silfe, the No. 2 leader at the Air Force, by Hegseth. President Donald Trump also fired Gen. Charles “C.Q.” Brown, then the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, at the same time.
Since then, more than a dozen other top military generals and admirals have either retired early or been removed from their posts.
Among these departures was George’s deputy, the Vice Chief of Staff of the Army, Gen. James Mingus, who was in the post for less than two years when Trump suddenly nominated Lt. Gen. Christopher LaNeve for the position. LaNeve was then serving as Hegseth’s top military aide, having been plucked for that post from commanding the Eighth Army in South Korea after less than a year in the job.
THE Easter holidays are finally here, and for many, it offers a welcome break for children and parents alike.
Whether you’re travelling abroad with the kids, planning a low-key escape, or squeezing in a quick day trip, it’s one of the best opportunities to reset.
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The good news is that many destinations are still sitting just outside peak-season prices, so it’s possible to find great value for money if you plan smart (but you can still find some gems if you leave it to the last-minute).
In our checklist guide, we’ve outlined some of the top deals to consider for the Easter school holiday adventures.
If you’re looking for a fun activity that the entire family can get involved in, Woofstock is the perfect solution.
Visit the award-winning dog and family-friendly festival set in the stunning grounds of Powderham Castle near Exeter.
Back for 2026, the much-loved event promises a bumper turnout, easy access and plenty of free parking.
Visitors can expect live music, fun dog shows open to all breeds, and impressive displays, including agility and obedience stations to keep your pooch entertained.
There’ll also be plenty of dog-friendly stalls to browse, alongside reasonably priced food and drink.
Even better, one lucky winner can bag a VIP glamping package to enjoy the festival with their four-legged best friend. Enter the competition here.
Leeds Castle
Visit the Leeds Castle website to book your Spring getaway
Make this Easter extra special with a spring escape to the stunning Leeds Castle, which is nestled in the Kent countryside.
It offers the perfect mix of history, nature and family-friendly fun.
Choose from cosy B&B rooms in the Stable Courtyard or opt for the playful Knights’ Retreat lodges, ideal for families looking to add a little adventure to their stay.
Guests also enjoy access to the castle and its beautiful grounds, where there’s plenty to explore, from colourful spring gardens to three adventure playgrounds and impressive Birds of Prey displays.
From 3–19 April, families can take part in the Enchanted Easter Trail, a magical outdoor experience filled with interactive challenges, riddles and live entertainment.
After a day of exploring, guests can unwind in comfortable accommodations and soak up the unique atmosphere.
Slap Adventures
Visit the website
For those who believe driving should be more than just getting from A to B, Slap Adventures offers a next-level experience.
Designed exclusively for sports, performance and supercar owners, these curated driving tours transform every journey into something unforgettable.
Covering some of the most thrilling routes across the UK and Europe, each trip is carefully planned to combine exhilarating roads with stunning scenery, from winding mountain passes to scenic coastal stretches.
Every detail is taken care of, from premium accommodation to well-chosen stops along the way, allowing you to relax and fully enjoy the experience.
It’s a seamless, stress-free way to explore new destinations behind the wheel.
Cofton Holiday Park
Plan your stay
Set in a scenic valley near Dawlish Warren beach, Cofton Holidays is a five-star, family-run holiday park in South Devon offering a premium staycation experience for families, couples, and dog owners alike.
With a range of accommodation, including luxury lodges with hot tubs to touring and camping pitches, it caters to every kind of getaway.
Guests can enjoy standout facilities such as indoor and outdoor pools (open May to September), a leisure complex and on-site dining, making it easy to relax and unwind without leaving the park.
Cofton has earned multiple awards, including Holiday Park of the Year at the Dog-Friendly Awards for two consecutive years.
What sets it apart is its all-in-one approach.
From woodland walks to the beach and peaceful fishing lakes to a high ropes course, it offers something for everyone.
Port Aventura World
Book your visit
Located on Spain’s Costa Daurada, just an hour from Barcelona, PortAventura World is one of Europe’s most convenient and exciting short-haul family getaways, with direct flights from major UK airports.
With over 100 million visits in its 30-year history, the resort has become a go-to destination for families seeking sunshine, thrills and all-in-one entertainment.
It offers a wide choice of accommodation, including five themed four-star hotels and a five-star option within the resort, plus four additional hotels nearby (Ponient Hotels by PortAventura World).
At its heart are three standout parks: PortAventura Park, Ferrari Land, the only Ferrari-branded theme park in Europe, and Caribe Aquatic Park, one of southern Europe’s largest water parks.
For 2026, new attractions, including Coral Bay: The Lost Legend and Makamanu Jungle, promise even more family-friendly adventures, perfect for all ages. Enter the competition here.
Lenor
Shop the range
If you have a holiday planned, there’s nothing worse than arriving at your destination and finding your neatly packed clothes creased.
While many travellers rely on quick fixes like steam from the shower or flattening clothes under a mattress, there’s a far simpler solution: Lenor Crease Releaser.
This travel-friendly spray smooths wrinkles in seconds. Simply hang your clothes, spritz lightly, and smooth by hand for a fresh, ready-to-wear finish.
Now available in a handy 100ml size alongside the standard 500ml bottle, it’s ideal for holidays and weekends away.
Plus, Lenor’s Steamer and Ironing Waters make tackling laundry easier too, helping reduce creases while adding a long-lasting fragrance and preventing limescale build-up in your iron.
Crealy Theme Park & Resort
Explore short breaks at Crealy
Crealy Theme Park & Resort is one of Devon’s top family staycation spots, combining accommodation, entertainment and theme park thrills all in one place.
Families can choose from a wide range of stays, from luxury lodges with hot tubs and themed glamping to caravans and fully serviced camping pitches.
Voted Best Theme Park for Families at the 2025 UK Theme Park Awards, Crealy is home to over 60 rides and attractions, live shows, seasonal events and even animals, making it a hit with all ages.
Guests staying on short breaks can also enjoy evening entertainment during school holidays and selected weekends, with theme park entry included or discounted.
For 2026, the park is turning up the excitement with two major new rides, one of which is Pirates’ Plummet (the South West’s tallest), plus a packed events calendar that starts from Easter.
Visit Isle of Wight
Book now
If you’re craving a getaway that feels a world away without the long journey, the Isle of Wight delivers exactly that.
Just a short crossing over the Solent, you’re greeted by golden beaches, fresh sea air and an instant sense of escape – perfect for sunnier days.
From scenic coastal walks and dramatic cliff-top views to peaceful cycling routes through rolling countryside, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Whether you’re after adventure or a slower pace, it’s easy to switch off and soak it all in.
Food is another huge highlight too, with fresh seafood, artisan produce and locally crafted drinks adding to the experience.
Families will find plenty to keep everyone entertained, from unique attractions to unforgettable coastal views, which can be enjoyed from cosy cottages and boutique stays to laid-back campsites by the sea. Enter the competition here.
Bluebell Railway
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Climb aboard for a magical adventure at the Bluebell Railway, where every journey feels like stepping into a storybook.
Just a short trip from London or Brighton, this isn’t your average train ride.
Guests can hop onto a real vintage steam train and chug through the beautiful Sussex countryside, with smoke puffing and whistles blowing as they go.
With an all-day ticket, little explorers can jump on and off at different stations, each one like travelling through time, from the 1880s to the 1950s.
There’s plenty to discover along the way too.
Kids can get hands-on in the SteamWorks! exhibition, explore giant locomotives, or stop off for a bite to eat before the next adventure begins.
During Easter and school holidays, the fun goes even further, with children travelling for just £1 and surprise entertainment like dinosaurs, unicorns, a mobile zoo and favourite characters popping up along the route.
It’s a day full of imagination, adventure and unforgettable moments for the whole family.
Temblant Living
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Step into a real-life winter wonderland at Mont-Tremblant.
Here, snowy rooftops, twinkling lights and a cosy village feel like something straight out of a festive storybook that the whole family will love.
Days can be spent completely how you want them, whether that’s zooming down snowy slopes, building snowmen, or warming up with hot chocolate by the fire.
With Tremblant Living, the whole trip is made easy.
Their ski-in, ski-out stays mean you can step straight onto the slopes, while everything else, from lift passes to equipment and special experiences, is taken care of.
Mont-Tremblant is packed with everything you need for a fun snowy getaway with family and friends, creating cosy moments that kids (and grown-ups) will never forget.
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