Travel advice

CORNWALL is known for its breathtakingly beautiful beaches – and for good reason.

With over 300 beaches to choose from, there’s a stretch of sand to suit everyone, from vast, wide open beaches to hidden coves accessible only at low tide.

As a rule of thumb, Cornwall’s north coast is wild and rugged, and generally best for surfing, where beaches are backed by windswept cliffs or sand dunes and exposed to the Atlantic swell.

By comparison, the south coast of Cornwall tends to be more sheltered, boasting some of the most picturesque fishing harbours, green landscapes and stunning estuaries.

You’ll also find mainland England’s most southerly and westerly points (Lizard Point and Land’s End), with their legendary shipwrecks. 

But which beach should you visit first on your £9.50 Holiday? Here’s our handy guide – with tips from Cornwall experts, local holiday park and Sun readers to help you whittle the choice down… 

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Best for scenery 

Whichever beach you pick in Cornwall, the vistas will blow you away.

Perhaps the most stunning visually is Kynance Cove, with its white sands and mesmerising rock stacks.

Its islands and caves are only accessible at low tide (tip: check tide times before you visit) and it’s best to visit early in the day to avoid the crowds.

Carol Harris, 72, from Clacton-on-Sea, Essex, stayed at Parkdean Resorts Lizard Point on a 9.50 Holiday and she said: “Kynance Cove is less than a 15-minute drive away, and it’s just stunning – the scenery is incredible.

“It also has a National Trust car park so is free for members to park, and staff are helpful at pointing out the easier and harder routes to walk as you arrive.”

Best for surfing 

Cornwall expert and Sun travel writer Ellie Ross recommends Newquay for surfing. She said “The town is regarded as the UK’s surf capital, and you’ve got 12 beaches to choose from, so there are lots of options for all abilities.

“For instance, beginners can catch small waves in the sheltered Towan Beach (beside the harbour) while intermediate and advanced surfers can find consistent swell at Fistral Beach.

“There are loads of surf schools to choose from – I’d recommend trying Newquay Activity Centre or Fistral Beach Surf School.”

Best beaches to escape the crowds

Anne Walton, 71, from Newport, stayed at Hendra Holiday Park in Newquay.

She said: “Cornwall’s beaches are second to none – they’re one of the reasons that I prefer to go to Cornwall rather than abroad.

“The beaches around St Ives and Carbis Bay have the best sand – it’s so soft.

“Then I like the waves at Fistral Beach. But it can get busy so I prefer the neighbouring Little Fistral Beach.

“It’s much smaller and only accessible at low tide, but not as many people know about it so you can get the beach to yourself. It’s a more secret beach.” 

“Another tip is knowing where to park in Newquay. We avoid the main Fistral Beach car park, and instead park at Towan Headland Car Park, which not as many people know about and only costs around £1.50 per hour.

“From here, you can walk to Rick Stein’s fish and chip shop and everything else on Fistral Beach in five minutes.

You’re also right next to the steps that lead down to the lesser-known Little Fistral Beach.”

The Sun’s Head Of Travel (Digital), Caroline McGuire said: “I stay in St Mawes every summer and one of my favourite beach days is when we take the tiny 12-seater Place Ferry across to Place Landing, on St Anthony Head.

“From there, a lovely 25-minute walk through the countryside, along car-less lanes takes you out to Great Molunan beach and Little Molunan beach, beautiful sheltered cove with crystal clear waters that are never busy.

Best beach with a pub

For a beach with beer, Ellie Ross recommends Perranporth Beach – a vast sandy beach that’s fantastic for everything from surfing and sea swimming to dog walking (tip: dogs must be on leads in July and August).

She said: “The Watering Holebeach bar sits right on the sand and it’s the perfect place for a pint as the sun sets.

“As well as serving great food with a sea view, the pub is also a local favourite and hosts live music events all year round.”  

Best for families

Ellie recommends Watergate Bay, on the edge of Newquay, for families, saying: “There’s a ramp all the way down to the sand – perfect for prams – and at low tide it’s rockpooling heaven for children.

“Crantock, just a ten-minute drive from Newquay is also a good choice for families – it’s backed by sand dunes, with a river for shallow paddling.

“Crantock also has a coffee truck, Cargo Coffee, right on the beach selling everything from local pastries to handmade ice creams.”

(Tip: the coffee truck is weather dependent so check their Instagram page; Crantock National Trust car park gets busy in summer, so arrive early to avoid long queues!)

Best for dogs

Not all of Cornwall’s beaches allow dogs all year round – many have a summer ban, so check ahead if you’re travelling with a four-legged friend.

Watergate Bay, Fistral Beach and Crantock Beach are among the beaches with no summer restrictions, so are great choices for canine lovers.

A BUDGET train operator is launching more cheap tickets between some major UK cities.

The Lumo train service between London King’s Cross and Edinburgh is being extended to Glasgow Queen Street.

The train will still run via Edinburgh, as well as Falkirk High, on the East Coast Main Line.

Passengers will be able to use two northbound services each weekday and one southbound service.

There will then be one service in each direction at the weekend.

As a result of the announcement, it is thought more people will head to the Commonwealth Games too, which will take place in Glasgow in July next year.

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Tickets for the route with the low-cost operator will cost from £33.10 between London and Glasgow.

If travelling between Newcastle and Glasgow, tickets will be as little as £10.90.

Stuart Jones, managing director of First Rail Open Access, said: “This is a landmark moment which will boost connectivity between Scotland and England, offering a sustainable travel option whilst also boosting economic growth.

Paul Tetlaw, Director of Policy at Transform Scotland, said: “We welcome the new Lumo services from Glasgow and Falkirk via the East Coast Main Line.

“There is a significant market of people who currently drive or fly to the North East of England and London who now have the opportunity to switch to the train.

“The new services soon to be launched from Stirling will help to build on that modal shift to rail.”

Lumo is also launching a new route which will connect Stirling with London Euston, in May 2026.

It comes as FirstGroup, which owns Lumo, revealed in November that it has submitted applications to launch new direct routes between Cardiff and York, as well as Rochdale and London Euston.

The Cardiff to York route would also include stops in Birmingham, Derby and Sheffield.

This service would run six times a day throughout the week.

And the stops on the Rochdale to London Euston route would include Manchester Victoria, Eccles, Newton-le-Willows and Warrington Bank Quay.

This route would feature three return services on weekdays and Sundays, and four services each Saturday.

The company is aiming for the route to operate by December 2028.

Lumo trains are electric and on board feature no first-class seating option, fitting in with their budget offering.

Seats do have tray tables though and USB sockets, as well as free Wi-Fi.

For more train news, here is the way that passengers can travel on UK trains without buying tickets.

Plus, this is where you can find the most beautiful train journey – it takes 10 minutes and costs £3.

A POPULAR Spanish beach city is set to get new flights from the UK.

Valencia is known for its vibrant culture and being the birthplace of paella, and soon the city will get new Wizz Air flights from London Gatwick Airport.

The new flights will be daily and launch on March 29, next year.

Return flights will cost from £40 per person.

Wizz Air also recently announced that there will be a route between London Luton Airport and Valencia, starting in March next year as well.

This route will operate five times a week.

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It takes just under three hours to get to Valencia, which experiences high temperatures of 17C during the winter months and 300 days of sunshine a year.

The city features a charming old town – also known as Ciutat Vella – home to Gothic architecture including the cathedral where you can climb the bell tower and the Silk Exchange – a UNESCO World Heritage site.

For history lovers, there is also St. Nicholas Church, which is often dubbed as Valencia’s ‘Sistine Chapel’ due to its Baroque frescoes.

Visitors note the ornate ceilings inside and the light show that takes place, called ‘The Light of Saint Nicholas’, which highlights the numerous Baroque frescoes.

It costs €15 (£13.15) per person to visit.

Head to El Carmen too, to see medieval walls and experience a vibrant nightlife.

Of course, there are pretty beaches too, such as beaches Malvarrosa, which is the best-known beach in the city and has lots of deck chairs for hire, kiosks selling drinks and inviting waters.

For a bite to eat, make sure to visit Mercado Central, which is Europe‘s largest fresh produce market.

Visitors can pick up a variety of produce or grab a takeaway, including fresh oysters and raw shrimp with lemon juice and chilli.

One recent visitor said: “Everything was fresh and very tasty.

“We did a little shopping for vegetables and meats and drank Aqua di Valencia at two different stands, before finishing with empanadas and a roll with jamon and queso.

“The market itself is very large, with interesting architecture both inside and outside.”

Other top foodie destinations in the city include Fum De Llum, where diners can try the tasting menu for €28 (£24.53) with citrus-marinated tuna tartare, Iberian pork shoulder and a number of homemade desserts.

One visitor said: “As I walked in, I was instantly greeted by a delicious aroma that filled the air, creating a wonderful atmosphere for my experience.

“The generous portions only enhanced my enjoyment, and it was clear that the ingredients were fresh.

“Each bite was packed with authentic flavours that transported me to a special place.

“I left feeling thoroughly satisfied and pleased with my choice, eagerly anticipating the next opportunity to indulge in such a delightful meal.”

And if you happen to be in the city on March 19, you’ll get to see Las Fallas – a festival where giant cardboard sculptures are burned.

In 2026, Las Fallas will celebrate its 10th anniversary and will last 19 days.

The festival dates back to the 18th century when carpenters used to burn pieces of wood.

Next year, the city will also be hosting Gay Games from June 27 to July 4.

In total, there will be more than 3,000 people involved in the games across 37 events.

And later in 2026, the Sorolla Museum at the Palace of Communications will open.

The new museum will feature more than 220 works by the famous Valencia painter, Joaquin Sorolla.

There are also hotels for all budgets, including the adults-only Axel Hotel Valencia, which has city views and a spa and costs from £106 per night.

Alternatively, you could stay at the Vincci Mercat, which is less than 100 metres from Mercado Central, from £125 a night.

For more inspiration on where to travel to in Spain, these are five of the best Spanish foodie destinations with direct UK flights and cheap holiday packages.

Plus, a couple has been to Benidorm over 100 times – they go back for Christmas for Chinese buffets and unlimited drinks for £16.

IF you’re off to Scotland on a £9.50 Holiday, here’s something to excite your taste buds.

Surrounded by sea and with rolling fertile lands, this beautiful country produces much of its own food, from seafood to hearty haggis.

It’s also home to over 150 malt and grain distilleries, with countless whisky-tasting opportunities for those who like a tipple.  

You can’t miss the opportunity to sample haggis, neeps and tatties (turnips and potatoes), traditional fish and chips or Scottish porridge.

And you can’t go wrong by starting the day with a full Scottish breakfast, with The Bandstand Bar & Restaurant in Nairn highly rated for theirs.

Another local speciality is Cullen Sink, a warming, thick soup made of smoked haddock, potatoes and onions, which you can sample at somewhere like Garden Cafe Pitlochry. 

And that’s just the start. We’ve spoken to Scottish locals and holiday park staff to find out the best places to eat and drink – from sea-view restaurants to community-run cafes by the beach. 

Here are some places to check out on your upcoming £9.50 Holiday…

Best cheap eats

Morvyn Cattanach, General Manager at Sandylands Holiday Park in Ayrshire recommends Doon the Beach, a community cafe just behind Stevenson Beach.

She said: “It’s a cabin that they’ve done out as a cafe – a wee hidden thing that people might not know about.

“It’s the perfect place to get a cup of tea after a walk on the beach. And it’s really budget friendly – we got two soups, two drinks and a bag of dog treats for £10.”

In the Highlands, Milk Bar cafe and The Auctioneers pub, both in Inverness, are highly rated for their good value food and drink. 

Best dog-friendly cafe

If you have a pooch in tow, Morvyn Cattanach recommends heading to the coastal town of Irvine.

She said: “There’s a lovely cafe called GRO right next to the harbour where you can take your dog. It’s a great breakfast and brunch place – my favourite is avocados and eggs on toast (£9.80).”

The menu also features a “doggy section” with everything from sausages (£3) to “puppuccinos” (£2.50) for hounds. 

Best local pubs

Christopher Hill, Administration Manager at Tummel Valley Holiday Park in Perthshire, says Pitlochry is the place to find a variety of great pubs.

He said: “My favourites are The Old Mill Inn, Victoria’s and The Auld Smiddy Inn.

The Old Mill has a great setting, with a watermill outside and a nice beer garden.

The Auld Smiddy is a traditional pub with great food and a kids’ menu. There’s also the inn at the Moulin Hotel, which has a traditional brewery and cosy fire.”

Best for families

Adele Murray, a Scottish blogger originally from Aberfeldy in Highland Perthshire, says: “One of my family’s favourite pubs is Ailean Chraggan – or “The Crags” as locals call it – in Aberfeldy.

“It’s great for families, with a beer garden and outdoor play area. The Scottish Mussels are delicious and come from the west coast (£9.50 as a starter, £18.95 as a main), but I’ve also eaten pigeon and duck here – the food is great.”

The children’s menu includes garlic ciabatta (£3.50), mac and cheese (£6.25) and more.

Meanwhile, The Tree House in Ayr is a good option for families, with a genuinely good children’s menu and a laid-back vibe.

They also offer activity packs to keep kids entertained, and regular offers like steak nights for less than £15.

Best place for whisky tasting

The Scottish Sun Travel Editor, Heather Lowrie recommends The Blair Athol Distillery in Pitlochry, the Highlands.

She said: “It’s one of the oldest working distilleries in Scotland.”

One-hour tours cost from £19. Heather added: “Blair Castle, home to the Atholl family for over seven centuries with its spectacular grounds, is just seven miles away and worth a look.

“You can even go segwaying there with Segway Ecosse and take in Hercules Garden, Diana’s Grove and St Brides Kirk.”

Further north, Lossiemouth in Moray is another good option for sampling the country’s finest malts, with plenty of bars, cafes and restaurants in the town.

Heather said: “Whisky drinkers will love it as it’s in the famous Speyside whisky area, and close to a few of Scotland’s most famous distilleries including Glenfiddich, Macallan and Tamdhu.” 

Best restaurant

Overlooking the Moray Firth, Sun Dancer is a modern bar and restaurant – the perfect place to watch the sunset beside a panoramic window.

Make the most of one of the offers, like “boozy brunch” Saturdays (£35pp for two courses and four cocktails, pre-booking essential).

Meanwhile, The Bistro in Ayr is a traditional Scottish restaurant that is highly rated for its dishes, which range from duck leg croquettes (£7.95) to hand-pressed burgers (£16) and butcher’s cut steak.

Cornwall might be best known for its show-stopping beaches and natural beauty – but there’s a whole host of family-friendly attractions, from theme parks and soft plays to historic jails and kid-friendly museums.

It’s a good idea to have some wet weather ideas up your sleeve, or if you simply want an alternative to exploring Cornwall’s golden sands and picturesque fishing villages. 

We’ve asked Cornwall experts, holiday park staff and Sun readers who have holidayed here for their recommendations of the best family attractions in the county, located near your next £9.50 Holiday park. Here’s what they said… 

Hop on a bus

Carol Harris, 72, from Clacton-on-Sea, Essex, stayed at Parkdean Resorts Lizard Point and her top tip is to take the double decker bus, which stops right outside the holiday park.

She said: “Taking the bus was an unexpected highlight. We took a double decker to Penzance for just £4 for an all-day ticket. The sea views from the top deck were brilliant – and, as passengers instead of driving, we both got to enjoy them.

“We jumped off at Marazion for St Michael’s Mount, which is beautiful. In Penzance we walked along the quay and got unlimited refills of coffee in Wetherspoons for £1.56.”

Cornwall expert and Sun travel writer Ellie Ross also recommends the Atlantic Coaster.

She said: “On a sunny day, children will also love the thrill of riding this open-top bus.

“It links Hendra Holiday Park in Newquay with Padstow, offering amazing views out to sea, and you can hop on and off as you please. It’s also a bargain – with single fares from £2.”

Take a boat

A short ferry ride can add a dose of excitement to a day out, especially for little ones.

You can hop on board the St Mawes Ferry from Falmouth, like Laraine Wells, 73, from Taunton in Somerset, did during her £9.50 Holiday to St Ives.

She said: “Falmouth is a great place to mooch about – there are loads of small, independent shops selling interesting things.

“You can also catch the ferry to St Mawes – it’s a nice boat trip over and St Mawes is a pretty fishing harbour that you can explore or just have a cup of tea in one of the cafes.”

Family tickets cost from £7.56 return for five people; under-threes travel free. You can take a (foldable) buggy on the ferry.

Toddler-friendly attractions

If you’ve got tots in tow, rainy day activities can be a challenge.

In which case, take a trip to Lappa Valley, a train-themed attraction set in beautiful countryside on the outskirts of Newquay.

As well as the steam engine that chugs you into the park from the car park, it features mini golf, outdoor play areas and indoor soft play (tip: check the train timetable before you arrive – they only run every 40 minutes in low season).

It was recommended by Dani Fillery, Owner and Guest Experience Manager at White Acres Holiday Park.

Dani also recommended Newquay Trampoline and Play Park, which has an under-twos area as well as huge soft play for older children (tip: rainy days are especially busy, so book online to avoid disappointment).

Meanwhile, Camel Creek is an adventure park that’s great for kids of all ages. Dani said: “There’s a huge indoor soft play where you can hide away if it rains. It’s reasonably priced, we’ve been going for years with my son who is now six.”

For older kids

Cornwall expert Ellie Ross said: “Located just off the A30, Bodmin Jail is a great option en route to or from Cornwall – or if you’re happy to head half an hour inland from your holiday park.

“The 18th-century prison has recently been redeveloped into an attraction and hotel, and is a great option for families with older children, offering educational tours for children up to the age of 16 (Key Stage 4).

“Highlights include an interactive walk back in time, offering a glimpse into life inside the historic jail.

“Or pop over to Falmouth, where the National Maritime Museum has loads of interactive exhibitions that will engage youngsters while teaching them about Cornwall’s seafaring past, from pirates to packet ships.

“Tickets – which last a year – cost £18 for adults and £9 for under-18s. Under-fives get in free.”

CHRISTMAS is nearly here, but hot on its heels is what seems to be the year’s, longest, most miserable month: January.

The UK endures some of the dimmest winter light in Europe, says travel company First Choice, with just 41 to 62 hours of sun in the WHOLE of January, equating to only between 90 minutes and two hours a day.

So there couldn’t be a better month to escape abroad.

Lisa Minot suggests sunny escapes that will boost your mood without hurting your bank balance.

CYPRUS

You’ll get three times more sunshine on this sun-drenched island that enjoys 3,4000 hours of blue skies a year.

Temperatures in January are still a very acceptable 18C to 20C and the sun shines an average of five to six hours a day.

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Get your fix with a cheeky short stay at the 4* Louis Phaethon Beach right on the seafront near Paphos.

The hotel has two fabulous pools and three restaurants.

Four nights’ all-inclusive is from £337pp including flights from Manchester on January 14.

Check out firstchoice.co.uk.

LANZAROTE

Laze the day away beside your own sparkling private pool at the Rubi Mar village near Playa Blanca.

Here in the Canary Islands, you can expect six to seven hours of sunshine a day in January, with temperatures a balmy 20C or 21C.

The three-bed villa sits in lovely grounds and is within walking distance of a shop and restaurant.

Seven nights’ self-catering is from £240pp, based on six sharing and including flights from Gatwick on January 8.

See solmarvillas.com.

FLORIDA & CARIBBEAN CRUISE

This is the ultimate holiday for sun-seekers.

An incredible 15-night deal twins an Orlando stay with the chance to cruise the sun-soaked islands of the Caribbean.

Expect temperatures in the high twenties throughout, and seven to nine hours of sunshine.

This trip of a lifetime includes a five-night stay in Orlando, with a ticket to the new Epic Universe theme park as well as a seven-night full-board Caribbean cruise aboard the new Star Princess with ports of call in Turks and Caicos and the Dominican Republic.

And that’s not all — there’s also a two-night stay in Miami included as well a tour of the Everglades.

The price, £1,699, includes return flights from London on January 12 and dedicated transfers throughout.

To book, go to cruise.co.uk or call 0870 990 8824.

MOROCCO

Soak up Moroccan sunshine in magical Marrakech as you visit the bustling souks then enjoy a dip in the rooftop plunge pool at your traditional riad hotel.

Temperatures are 18C to 20C in January and you can expect seven hours of sunshine a day.

This Travelbag deal includes seven nights’ B&B at the boutique Riad Vert, in the heart of the old town and a ten-minute stroll from the souks.

Prices from £649pp include flights from Gatwick on January 11 and private transfers. See travelbag.co.uk or call 0203 944 3694.

THAILAND

It’s a little farther to fly but you’ll be rewarded by sizzling temperatures from 28C to 32C and nine hours of sunshine a day if you head to the tropical paradise of Hua Hin this January.

The 3* Ibis Hua Hin hotel is just a five-minute stroll from a sandy shore and has an outdoor pool and great restaurant.

It’s also close to the Cicada Market and Vana Nava Water Jungle.

Seven nights’ room-only is from £760pp including flights from Stansted On January 20.

Check out onthebeach.co.uk.

EGYPT

The Red Sea resort of Hurghada promises guaranteed sun in January, with eight to ten hours of clear skies a day and temperatures ranging from 19C to 22C.

The 4* Sea Star Beau Rivage hotel sits right on its own sandy beach and features two huge pools set in palm-lined gardens.

The spa and hammam on site is perfect for pampering too.

Seven nights’ all-inclusive is from £378pp including flights from Gatwick on January 21.

Check out travelsupermarket.com.

MADEIRA

Enjoy sub-tropical temperatures and abundant nature on this stunning island in the Atlantic.

Expect daily temperatures of around 19C in January, and five or six hours of sunshine a day.

The 3* Mathu Raga Madeira Hotel is just a short stroll from Funchal’s popular Lido promenade.

The hotel’s pool is heated in winter and while the Mathu Raga has a lovely buffet restaurant, the delights of the town’s many restaurants and bars are within easy walking distance.

Seven nights’ room-only is from £439pp including flights from Birmingham on January 26, 22kg luggage and transfers.

To book, see jet2holidays.com.

FUERTEVENTURA

Treat yourself on this lovely Canary Island with average daytime highs of 20C and six to seven hours of sunshine.

The 4* Occidental Jandia Playa hotel has panoramic seaside views as well as two beautiful pools to lounge beside.

A ten-minute walk from Jandia Beach there’s also two restaurants, four bars and evening entertainment to keep you busy.

Seven nights’ half-board is from £600pp including flights from Stansted on January 16, 20kg hold luggage and transfers.

See tui.co.uk.

TRAVELLING across the country for Christmas? Then there are some delays you need to look out for.

Each year hundreds of thousands of Brits will travel across the UK from A to B, to be somewhere for Christmas, battling busy roads, trains and airports.

Here’s everything you should know about travel over the Christmas period.

Air

According to the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), data shows that Friday December 19, will be the busiest travel day, with around 460,000 people expected to head off on a flight.

The CAA also revealed that travel on Christmas Day itself is becoming popular, with 160,000 passengers due to fly – 13 per cent more than last year.

The regulator recommended that travellers check their route to the airport and their flight status before leaving home, as winter weather can cause delays.

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In addition, the CAA commented that it is important for passengers to understand their rights, including for when a flight is delayed or cancelled.

Alvaro Iturmendi, travel expert at Confused.com, said: “With record numbers of people expected to fly this Christmas, passengers should be prepared for a higher chance of disruption.”

“Busy airports combined with winter weather risks mean delays and cancellations are more likely.”

Heathrow, in particular, is expecting the busiest Christmas on record.

Heathrow CEO Thomas Woldbye said: “We are fully prepared to deliver an exceptional Christmas experience, ensuring passengers enjoy the festive atmosphere across our terminals.

“Millions of passengers have enjoyed exceptional levels of service across the airport this year and those travelling through Heathrow this December can look forward to the best possible start to their journeys this holiday season.”

Flight compensation rules

A look at your rights if a flight is delayed or cancelled, when your entitled to compensation and if your travel insurance can cover the costs.

What are my rights if my flight is cancelled or delayed?

Under UK law, airlines have to provide compensation if your flight arrives at its destination more than three hours late.

If you’re flying to or from the UK, your airline must let you choose a refund or an alternative flight.

You will be able to get your money back for the part of your ticket that you haven’t used yet.

So if you booked a return flight and the outbound leg is cancelled, you can get the full cost of the return ticket refunded.

But if travelling is essential, then your airline has to find you an alternative flight. This could even be with another airline.

When am I not entitled to compensation?

The airline doesn’t have to give you a refund if the flight was cancelled due to reasons beyond their control, such as extreme weather.

Disruptions caused by things like extreme weather, airport or air traffic control employee strikes or other ‘extraordinary circumstances’ are not eligible for compensation.

Some airlines may stretch the definition of “extraordinary circumstances” but you can challenge them through the aviation regulator the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).

Will my insurance cover me if my flight is cancelled?

If you can’t claim compensation directly through the airline, your travel insurance may refund you.

Policies vary so you should check the small print, but a delay of eight to 12 hours will normally mean you qualify for some money from your insurer.

Remember to get written confirmation of your delay from the airport as your insurer will need proof.

If your flight is cancelled entirely, you’re unlikely to be covered by your insurance.

Road

The AA is predicting that this year will be the busiest Christmas on record for Britain’s roads.

According to the AA forecast, Friday December 19, is set to be the busiest with around 24.4 million cars hitting the roads.

Shaun Jones, AA expert patrol, said: “Our advice is simple: plan ahead, check your route and allow extra time.

“The AA Routeplanner will help you avoid the queues.

“Pack essentials, keep your tank or EV charge topped up, and don’t let congestion steal your Christmas sparkle.

“If you’re leaving your car parked over the festive period, start it for a few minutes every couple of days to ensure it’s ready for January.

“The M27 closure adds an extra twist to the seasonal story, so if you’re travelling in Hampshire, think about alternative routes. Our patrols will be out in force to keep Britain moving, but the best way to avoid a Christmas cracker of a breakdown is to prepare before you set off.”

Colin Stevenson, road safety information lead at National Highways, said: “Christmas is all about spending time with family and friends, and the last thing anyone wants is a breakdown getting in the way of festive plans. Spending a few minutes checking tyres, lights, screenwash, fuel and keeping an eye on the weather, can make a real difference.

“With so many people travelling, our teams are working around the clock to keep the country moving.

“We’ve got 530 gritters on standby and over 250,000 tonnes of salt in reserve and ready to use. We also plan to remove as many roadworks as possible, but some work will still need to continue.

“Drivers should check their route before they travel.”

Regarding car hire, Stewart Cahill, assistant vice president, rental, UK and Ireland at Enterprise Mobility, said: “Driving home for Christmas is a key part of the festive season for many – and we’re definitely seeing demand rise across our rental branches.

“Our research shows that the average round trip this Christmas will be more than 500 miles – the equivalent of driving from London to Middlesbrough and back – with nearly half of all holiday journeys happening by road.

“Car hire is especially popular with younger travellers this year, with almost a third of Gen Z and Millennials planning to rent for their Christmas trip.

“If you’re looking to hire a car, we’d recommend booking early to avoid limited availability closer to the holidays, especially for larger vehicles or one-way rentals. Planning ahead can also help lock in the best price and beat the last-minute rush.”

Coach

A spokesperson for National Express told Sun Travel: “The Christmas period is one of our busiest and our customers know they can count on us to get them to where they need to be, with the highest passenger numbers expected on 20th, 23rd, 26th and 27th December.

“Routes from London, Bristol, Birmingham and Manchester, as well as major airports such as Stansted and Heathrow, are particularly busy as people travel to see family and friends.

“On Christmas Day itself we are operating the nation’s largest festive coach network, with 355 services from 96 locations.

“Given the planned rail disruption over the festive period we’re expecting our coaches to be busy and have increased capacity to meet demand.

“Customers are strongly advised to book early to guarantee a seat and allow extra time for their journeys, especially when travelling to airports.”

Rail

According to The Independent, December 20 and December 22 will be the busiest days for rail.

Network Rail has listed a number of services that will be disrupted online.

These include no trains running on Christmas Day across the UK and on Boxing Day, there will be a reduced service.

There will be a number of engineering works taking place over the festive period as well.

Works include no trains to or from London Liverpool Street Station from December 27 to January 1.

There will also be no trains to or from London Waterloo Station or Vauxhall on December 27 and 28, with services starting and terminating at Clapham Junction.

A limited service will also run to and from London Waterloo from December 29 to January 2.

Buses will replace trains between Milton Keynes Central and Rugby/Northampton from December 27 to January 4 and journeys on the West Coast Main Line between London Euston and the Midlands/North West England/Scotland will be disrupted.

Buses will replace trains between Carlisle and Lockerbie from January 1 to 7, as well as between Dalmuir and Balloch/Helensburgh from December 27 to 31.

And no trains will run between Cambridge and Cambridge North, Bury St Edmunds and Stansted Airport from December 27 to January 4.

Ferry

For those travelling via ferry from the Port of Dover, there are also some dates where lots of people are expected to be travelling.

Doug Bannister, chief executive of the Port of Dover, said: “The weekend before Christmas is expected to be particularly busy, with peak traffic anticipated between 6am and 1pm from Friday, December 19, to Sunday, December 21.

“To help ensure a smooth departure, we kindly ask all customers travelling with our ferry partners not to arrive any earlier than two hours before their scheduled sailing, just as you would if departing from a UK airport, and greatly appreciate everyone’s patience should there be any additional waiting time due to the high volumes of traffic.”

Irish Ferries, in particular, is expecting lots of traffic from this weekend.

From December 19 onwards, sailings are expected to be busy on both Dover-Calais to the Continent and on Irish Sea routes from Holyhead and Pembroke, Irish Ferries told Sun Travel.

The operator added that there are still some sailings that are dealing with the aftermath of Storm Bram and advised passengers to have confirmed booking, as well as checking the status of their sailing via the Sailing Updates pages online.

In addition, Irish Ferries also suggest that travellers need to make preparations if they intend to travel with their pet, by booking a space in the Pets Den.

In other travel news, one of Europe’s most popular holiday destinations will pay half your rent if you move there.

Plus, a huge new waterpark opens with 16 attractions and lazy river – its 26C in winter and some can visit for free.

FORKS at the ready and bosh – Big John is hosting a lavish feast to remember.

The Instagram foodie, who rose to fame for eating Chinese takeaways, is putting new flavours to the test this Christmas by bringing the best of the Spanish and Great British festive food together.

It included the jambon, a traditional part of the Spanish Christmas dinner, which went down a treat with the influencer, whereas he said the British staple of Brussels sprouts can ‘do one’.

The meal was completed with Pastas de España, as well as classic British turkey.

But now, John has claimed he is a changed man and will add a bit of Spanish to his Christmas meal every time.

The spread featuring both nation’s Christmas classics to celebrate the El Gordo Lottery – which is the biggest lottery in the world.

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A spokesperson for Lottoland.co.uk, which commissioned the survey ahead of the £2.4 billion El Gordo Christmas lotto draw, said: “It’s so exciting to bring the Spanish tradition to the UK in the tastiest way possible and who better to work with than Big John…BOSH.

“We are so glad he approves of the traditional Spanish food and has given his stamp of approval.

“Although his feedback wasn’t as glowing for the Brussels sprouts.”

It comes after research of 2,000 adults who celebrate Christmas found six in 10 would like to mark the event in another country to escape holiday stress at home or avoid a British washout.

And 53 per cent of those would like to make new memories in a totally different setting.

While 45 per cent want to enjoy festive food from another cuisine and 31 per cent would meet up with pals who already live abroad.

With the USA, Australia and Spain among the top international destinations where people would love to spend December 25, along with Canada, Germany and Switzerland.

But 40 per cent would like to try out the Japanese tradition of tucking into mountains of KFC on Christmas Day, rather than a typical roast.

Despite a desire to head overseas to celebrate, 76 per cent of those polled said a British Christmas dinner is still the best thing a person can possibly eat on December 25.

But if they did celebrate the day away from home, 67 per cent would be likely to try a local festive dish.

A quarter (25 per cent) would be most curious to try the Feast of Seven Fishes served in Italy, while almost one in 10 (eight per cent) fancy the taste of mantecados – shortbread – served in Spain.

However, 48 per cent would miss the classic meal with all the trimmings, while 31 per cent would feel strange not seeing all the familiar TV specials and festive programming.

And despite moaning about the UK weather, 27 per cent would miss a cold, crisp winter climate if they went somewhere warmer.

As 43 per cent believe Christmas is not ‘complete’ without a cosy festive jumper, according to the OnePoll.com data.

Nearly seven in 10 (69 per cent) would be open to adopting totally new festive traditions if they did go away for the big day.

And they would most want to capture that feeling of togetherness (32 per cent), while 20 per cent would aim for excitement and 16 per cent nostalgia.

Lottoland.co.uk’s spokesperson added: “Spending Christmas abroad offers a fresh perspective on the season.

“Whether it’s swapping snow for sunshine or discovering new festive traditions, there’s something magical about experiencing the holiday through a different cultural lens.

“If you like to spend your Christmas in the UK, it’s not too hard to do a quick online search to find a new tradition from Madrid to Perth and incorporate it into your own festivities.

“But wherever you celebrate, being with the people you love, or at least connected to them, is truly the most important thing.”

ARE you a “Just-in-case Jetsetter” or a “Chill Improviser” when it comes to travelling abroad?

A new travel quiz aims to uncover what type of traveller you are, by asking a series of trip-related questions.

Other outcomes include “The master planner” and “The social explorer”.

It comes after a poll of two thousand adults who go on holiday revealed Brits’ biggest travel blunders including getting lobster red sunburn (26 per cent).

Going exploring and winding up completely lost (24 per cent) and spilling my drink all over myself or even an unsuspecting stranger (14 per cent) also made the list of blush inducing mishaps.

Misreading a menu and ordering something unexpected (12 per cent) and accidently boarding the wrong train or bus (nine per cent) also made the top 30 list.

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The study was commissioned by ibis to support the launch of its new social media miniseries, the Go Getters.

Jean-Yves Minet, global brand president of ibis, said:  “Everyone travels differently. Some people prepare for every possibility, and others prefer to go with the flow – but no matter your style, the odd mishap is part of the experience and the story you tell when you get home.

“This research shows just how universal those moments are.

“We focus on making travel feel simple and stress-free, whether you’re the spontaneous type, or somewhere in the middle.

“What matters most is feeling confident on the move and being able to enjoy the journey, even when it does not quite go to plan. Sometimes the magic is in the mayhem – it certainly makes for the best story.”

The research found as many as 86 per cent have experienced some kind of mishap on holiday, with 11 per cent experiencing a mishap during most or all of their trips.

And while 68 per cent said other people had had a little laugh at their blunders, 77 per cent did manage to see the funny side too eventually.

When a holiday blunder strikes, 44 per cent would try to fix it, while 22 per cent said they would laugh it off straight away.

But while 56 per cent think a few travel dramas are all part of the adventure, 77 per cent believe they are pretty good at planning to avoid them in the first place.

Buying travel insurance (56 per cent), triple checking their passport is there (48 per cent) and continually applying sun cream (43 per cent) were among the key hacks to avoid disaster.

Followed by double checking the locks and keys (36 per cent), packing a first aid kit (31 per cent) and keeping a watchful eye on the weather forecast (30 per cent).

The research, carried out via OnePoll, also revealed 31 per cent want to travel more in 2026 than they did this year, with 35 per cent claiming the experience is more important than just ticking somewhere off their list.

When it comes to planning these trips, they prioritise location (61 per cent), as well as price (59 per cent) and reviews (44 per cent).

While 64 per cent think the key to affordable travel means getting the best value for money and smart planning and budgeting (40 per cent).

Jean-Yves added: “Everyone has had a moment on holiday that didn’t quite go to plan.

“These findings show just how common they are, and how quickly most people turn them into moments of connection, laughter and shared stories.”

A LAND of lochs, monumental mountains and breathtaking beaches, Scotland is an unforgettable holiday destination. 

Whether you’re keen to relax by the sea, trek through glens, take the family to a country park or savour this nation’s brilliant cuisine, there’s something for everyone. 

So the hardest question on your upcoming £9.50 Holiday will be: where to visit first?

Families wanting to explore the local area will have stacks of choice. 

You could start with a gentle steam train ride through the countryside, with the likes of Strathspey Steam Railway sure to put a smile on your child’s face.

Need to up the ante? Older kids can test their courage with adrenaline-pumping activities like the Highland Fling bungee jump in Killiecrankie or burn off steam at Pirate Pete’s adventure play park in Ayr.

Taking your brood to a country park like Eglinton is another great way of letting them run off excess energy – and it has the added bonus of being completely free to visit.

Other top-rated free things to do in Scotland include hiking up Arthur’s Seat and visiting the National Museum of Scotland, both in Edinburgh, and Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum in Glasgow.

If you want a deeper dive into nature, you could head to one of the country’s two National Parks – at Loch Lomond and Cairngorms – which are packed with nature trails. 

For a route that’s loaded with history, try the outdoor “museum without walls” Cateran Ecomuseum.

It features ancient Pictish stones and the Cateran Trail, which you can explore by foot, bike or car. 

Alternatively, try and catch a glimpse of the famous Loch Ness Monster at Loch Ness – the world’s largest lake by volume.

Prefer to bask by the beach (weather permitting)? Then you’ll be spoilt for choice. 

With over 11,000 miles of coastline including its islands, Scotland has some of the UK’s best beaches, with Camusdarach Beach on the west coast and Gullane Bents, East Lothian, among those highly rated. 

Sun readers also have their own favourite Scottish beaches, from the near-deserted shores of Embo Beach in the Highlands to the family-friendly sands at Silver Sands near Lossiemouth. 

And with so many beautiful lochs, you also have freshwater beaches including the UK’s highest beach at Loch Morlich (318m). 

Beach days can be filled with buckets and spades, sea swimming or trying a raft of activities such as paddleboarding (do it off the coast of Nairn, and you could spot the resident pod of dolphins).

A swim in nature doesn’t have to be by the sea – with wild swimming spots that include river pools in the Highlands and “Rob Roy’s Bathtub”, a massive plunge pool fed by the Falls of Falloch.

You can also explore Scotland’s incredible lochs by kayak or paddleboard, with Priory Island on Loch Tay a fantastic option for an adventure without any crowds. 

When it’s time to refuel, Scotland has everything from sea view restaurants to cheap and cheerful cafes, like Doon the Beach, a community cafe just behind Stevenson Beach, and Milk Bar in Inverness. 

Keen to sample local flavours? Get your fill of everything from hearty haggis to Cullen Sink – a soup of smoked haddock, potatoes and onions – at somewhere like Garden Cafe Pitlochry.

And no trip to Scotland would be complete without a wee dram. 

There are traditional pubs aplenty, like The Auld Smiddy Inn in Pitlochry, as well as distilleries like the Blair Athol Distillery where you can learn more about the process of making the tipple on an organised tour.