travel

The 120-acre National Trust site near Masham features 18th-century grottos, waterfalls and ruins hidden within ancient woodland on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales

In North Yorkshire, near the market town of Masham, lies an expansive woodland haven brimming with hidden gems that stretch back to the 18th century.

Hackfall Woods stands as a magnificent 120-acre expanse of ancient forest, attracting visitors with its enchanting atmosphere and stunning views. The Woodland Trust-owned site holds grade 1 listed status, owing to its 18th-century remnants and historic garden features.

Perched on the fringe of the picturesque Yorkshire Dales, Hackfall nestles within a dramatic and rugged gorge carved by the River Ure.

Following years of neglect and deterioration, the woodland has been carefully restored to its original splendour, now welcoming keen walkers and explorers across Yorkshire.

History

Whilst today Hackfall appears as an untouched wilderness, it was actually carefully crafted to achieve this wild aesthetic by a renowned landscaper in 1731.

John Aislabie bought the estate and, working with his son, reimagined it as a seemingly natural landscape dotted with decorative features for visitors to admire.

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The design was cleverly conceived to showcase the pre-existing panoramas and natural characteristics, amplifying the area’s inherent beauty.

Yet following their considerable efforts, Hackfall endured decades of abandonment and disrepair, before being purchased in 1932 by an owner who stripped the site of its trees. The structures had fallen into disrepair, and flooding had worn away the once-stunning water features.

In 1989, the Woodland Trust stepped in to save the site, securing it on a lease of nearly 1,000 years, with support from organisations including the Hackfall Trust and English Heritage.

Since that time, this magnificent woodland has been formally designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest, alongside recognition as ancient semi-natural woodland.

It continues to attract visitors from throughout the country, eager to witness the waterfalls, sculptures and historic ruins.

One visitor recounted their experience on TripAdvisor, writing: “Hackfall is a beautiful and peaceful woodland brimming with nature, trees, plants, birds, wildlife, streams, ponds, castle ruins, great views on a hillside alongside the River Ure. It’s a super place for peace and quiet, for individuals, for families, suitable for all ages to explore and get away from it all.”

Wildlife

Nature enthusiasts are guaranteed a memorable experience at Hackfall, renowned for the remarkable diversity of species that inhabit the area.

From bird life to flora and insects, the woodland is bursting with biodiversity, and countless sightings have been documented here, particularly by dedicated birdwatchers.

The website showcases an extensive array of creatures visitors might encounter, from kingfishers to dippers, grey wagtails and woodpeckers. Guests can also anticipate spotting stoats, foxes, badgers, butterflies and little lemon slugs.

Access

Given the challenging landscape, featuring numerous steep footpaths, Hackfall is only suitable for those confident navigating steps and inclines, as wheelchair access isn’t available.

The woodland offers up to four entry points, with the two most frequented located at the top of the site and featuring the steepest routes.

To access these, you’ll need to start from the minor road linking Grewelthorpe to Masham. The entrance has no barriers, and as you follow the trail, you’ll quickly discover it’s a gentle gradient with a handful of steps.

Free parking is available nearby at the Woodland Trust car park, situated roughly half a mile before Grewelthorpe Village. Some walkers alternatively opt to park in the village of Masham.

Bear in mind there are no toilet facilities within the woodlands themselves, with the closest public toilets located back in Masham. While this is typical for most woodland rambles, visitors will be delighted to learn that not only are they welcome, but their dogs are too.

A Cotswolds local has shared her five favourite spots to go for a bite to eat when you’ve completed your long country walk and need something hearty and delicious

Who can resist a hearty pub lunch after a refreshing walk, soaking up the stunning natural beauty around them? It’s simply an unbeatable experience.

It feels like a well-earned treat, and there’s nothing quite like the satisfaction that comes after a good bout of exercise. That’s why a local woman from the Cotswolds has shared her top picks for a pub lunch if you’re visiting the area, but she warns that you “must” book in advance to avoid disappointment. Ali listed five of her favourite local eateries, all of which sound absolutely delightful and are worth checking out sooner rather than later.

1. The Kingham Plough, Kingham

Ali enthused: “My all-time favourite pub in the Cotswolds. Incredible roasts, consistently great food, faultless service and one of the prettiest villages around.”

A recent Tripadvisor review reads: “We had a lovely dinner with family and friends. The food, especially the more sophisticated dishes, was very good, the ambience pleasant, and the service enjoyable.”

2. The Lamb, Shipton-under-Wychwood

“Outstanding food and such good value evenings (think chicken night, curry night, etc). They also own a few other brilliant Cotswolds pubs that are just as good,” Ali noted.

A recent Tripadvisor review reads: “Roast Chicken – best I’ve ever had (obviously apart from my wife’s and mother’s). It’s really very exceptional. I would go as far as saying I would travel to the Lamb just to eat the roast chicken. Fabulous deal on Thursdays – an entire roast chicken plus trimmings for £30.”

3. The Fox at Oddington, Oddington

Ali praised it, writing: “A Daylesford-owned pub and a local favourite – especially on Thursday nights. Amazing pizza, beautiful interiors and a great atmosphere.”

One glowing Tripadvisor review gushed: “Wow! What a pub… the vibes are on point as soon as you walk in the door. We went on a busy Friday evening without a booking, and after having a drink in the bar, we were seated at a table by James, who was an outstanding host!”

“The food was absolutely superb, we had steak tartare, and the nduja scotch egg for starters, both amazing, then had the Fox double burger and beef bourguignon.

“Hands down the best burger I have ever tasted, and the beef was amazing, both were generous portions, great value for money. The service was great the whole time. Shout out to James, who was great to chat with and looked after us!”

4. The Bull, Charlbury

Ali described it as: “Recently named one of the best pubs in the UK. The menu might look a little intimidating, but trust me – the food is fantastic. Pie night every Thursday.”

One Tripadvisor reviewer shared: “We had a great lunch at The Bull! It is somewhat full of Londoners in rust-coloured corduroy, but that didn’t spoil what was a lovely lunch!”

“You do need to book as it’s extremely popular. Be prepared that it is incredibly dark with only candles for lighting, but all in all, we had a lovely meal – the plates are small, but deceivingly filling! The staff are really nice, and the atmosphere is cosy, lighthearted and easy.

“One word of caution – if you order a Bloody Mary, it may blow your head off!”

5. The Chequers, Churchill

Ali said: “Clarkson’s local and currently undergoing a refurbishment. Reopening mid-March in a stunning village location – one to watch for great food and atmosphere.”

A recent Tripadvisor review reads: “We had a lovely meal at The Chequers. The food was genuinely excellent – fresh, well-cooked, and full of flavour, with a great menu choice. What really stood out, though, was the staff. They were incredibly attentive without being overbearing, friendly, and made us feel very welcome throughout our visit.

“Everything came out promptly, and nothing was too much trouble. It’s clear they really care about the quality of both the food and the customer experience. We’ll definitely be returning and would happily recommend The Chequers to others.”

Which pub would you fancy visiting if you found yourself in the Cotswolds? Share your thoughts in the comments below…

A Cotswolds local has shared her five favourite spots to go for a bite to eat when you’ve completed your long country walk and need something hearty and delicious

Who can resist a hearty pub lunch after a refreshing walk, soaking up the stunning natural beauty around them? It’s simply an unbeatable experience.

It feels like a well-earned treat, and there’s nothing quite like the satisfaction that comes after a good bout of exercise. That’s why a local woman from the Cotswolds has shared her top picks for a pub lunch if you’re visiting the area, but she warns that you “must” book in advance to avoid disappointment. Ali listed five of her favourite local eateries, all of which sound absolutely delightful and are worth checking out sooner rather than later.

1. The Kingham Plough, Kingham

Ali enthused: “My all-time favourite pub in the Cotswolds. Incredible roasts, consistently great food, faultless service and one of the prettiest villages around.”

A recent Tripadvisor review reads: “We had a lovely dinner with family and friends. The food, especially the more sophisticated dishes, was very good, the ambience pleasant, and the service enjoyable.”

2. The Lamb, Shipton-under-Wychwood

“Outstanding food and such good value evenings (think chicken night, curry night, etc). They also own a few other brilliant Cotswolds pubs that are just as good,” Ali noted.

A recent Tripadvisor review reads: “Roast Chicken – best I’ve ever had (obviously apart from my wife’s and mother’s). It’s really very exceptional. I would go as far as saying I would travel to the Lamb just to eat the roast chicken. Fabulous deal on Thursdays – an entire roast chicken plus trimmings for £30.”

3. The Fox at Oddington, Oddington

Ali praised it, writing: “A Daylesford-owned pub and a local favourite – especially on Thursday nights. Amazing pizza, beautiful interiors and a great atmosphere.”

One glowing Tripadvisor review gushed: “Wow! What a pub… the vibes are on point as soon as you walk in the door. We went on a busy Friday evening without a booking, and after having a drink in the bar, we were seated at a table by James, who was an outstanding host!”

“The food was absolutely superb, we had steak tartare, and the nduja scotch egg for starters, both amazing, then had the Fox double burger and beef bourguignon.

“Hands down the best burger I have ever tasted, and the beef was amazing, both were generous portions, great value for money. The service was great the whole time. Shout out to James, who was great to chat with and looked after us!”

4. The Bull, Charlbury

Ali described it as: “Recently named one of the best pubs in the UK. The menu might look a little intimidating, but trust me – the food is fantastic. Pie night every Thursday.”

One Tripadvisor reviewer shared: “We had a great lunch at The Bull! It is somewhat full of Londoners in rust-coloured corduroy, but that didn’t spoil what was a lovely lunch!”

“You do need to book as it’s extremely popular. Be prepared that it is incredibly dark with only candles for lighting, but all in all, we had a lovely meal – the plates are small, but deceivingly filling! The staff are really nice, and the atmosphere is cosy, lighthearted and easy.

“One word of caution – if you order a Bloody Mary, it may blow your head off!”

5. The Chequers, Churchill

Ali said: “Clarkson’s local and currently undergoing a refurbishment. Reopening mid-March in a stunning village location – one to watch for great food and atmosphere.”

A recent Tripadvisor review reads: “We had a lovely meal at The Chequers. The food was genuinely excellent – fresh, well-cooked, and full of flavour, with a great menu choice. What really stood out, though, was the staff. They were incredibly attentive without being overbearing, friendly, and made us feel very welcome throughout our visit.

“Everything came out promptly, and nothing was too much trouble. It’s clear they really care about the quality of both the food and the customer experience. We’ll definitely be returning and would happily recommend The Chequers to others.”

Which pub would you fancy visiting if you found yourself in the Cotswolds? Share your thoughts in the comments below…

Most UK visitors will need a key document to enter the UK, but this will depend on your nationality and reasons for travel

Travellers regularly encounter changes in regulations when navigating international borders. Now London Heathrow Airport has issued a reminder regarding new rules coming into force in days

Under the changes an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA), will be a legal requirement for certain people from this month. This £16 fee allows travellers to enter the UK for tourism, family visits, and other purposes for up to six months.

On X, formerly Twitter, the major airport said this week: “Starting 25 February, whether your final destination is the UK or you are connecting via Heathrow, eligible visitors will need an ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation). Find out more on http://GOV.UK.”

While most UK visitors will need an ETA or visa to enter the UK, this will depend on your nationality and reason for travel. For instance, an ETA is generally required if you’re coming from Europe, the USA, Australia, Canada and certain other countries.

Each person travelling is required to have an ETA, including babies and children. So, for a family of four, you’ll likely need to pay £64 in total, while a family of six will typically pay £96. Visitors can apply for an ETA on behalf of other people.

Anyone who has a British or Irish passport, or has permission to work, live or study in the UK, will not need an ETA. According to official Government advice, other exemptions include:

It’s important to remember that having an ETA does not guarantee entry to the UK. Those with a criminal record or who have previously been denied entry should consider applying for a Standard Visitor visa instead.

Beyond this, the UK Government highlights exactly what can and can’t be done with an ETA. For instance, the ETA allows:

Meanwhile, these five things are not permitted with an ETA:

• Staying in the UK for longer than six months
• Doing paid or unpaid work for a UK company or as a self-employed person, unless you’re doing a permitted paid engagement or event or work on the Creative Worker visa concession
• Claiming public funds (benefits)
• Living in the UK through frequent or successive visits
• Marrying or registering a civil partnership, or giving notice of marriage or civil partnership – a Marriage Visitor visa is needed

Visitors can apply for the £16 ETA online or via the UK ETA app. To do so, they must have a passport, an email address, and a payment method, including Apple Pay and Google Pay. The payment is non-refundable once an application has been made.

For more information, head to GOV.UK here.

Tbut there are still some places where you can get a drink for less than £5.

The cost of a pint continues to creep upwards. Tracking down a boozer flogging pints for under a fiver has become nearly impossible, yet certain spots still won’t leave your wallet crying.

A report from takepayments has uncovered which UK cities offer the most wallet-friendly drinking experience. The research examined 34 major UK cities against 16 affordability measures, encompassing housing, transport, wages, and discretionary spending (such as the cost of a pint).

Each location received a score out of 10 for overall affordability, identifying where Brits can enjoy the cheapest tipple.

Derby emerged as the nation’s most affordable city for a beverage, with pints priced at a mere £3.60. That’s a bargain when you fancy unwinding after a day discovering what the city has to offer – and there’s loads to see.

Situated in the East Midlands within Derbyshire and hugging the River Derwent, Derby serves as an ideal starting point for venturing into the picturesque British countryside, boasting numerous walking routes and cycling trails, reports the Express.

Among the finest is the Vicar Wood & Mackworth loop accessible from Markeaton Park. This 6.1km ramble takes roughly 90 minutes, beginning at the Mundy Playcentre car park.

Winding through farmland and parks, it’s ideal for families. There’s also Calke Abbey – a dilapidated stately home boasting sprawling gardens and a remarkable natural history collection.

Originally an Augustinian Priory, the property was acquired by Sir Henry Harpur in 1622. The estate remained in the family for generations, and from 1924 onwards, Calke was left largely untouched, though it underwent gradual modernisation.

Today, the National Trust has preserved the house much as it was, offering a fascinating glimpse into life from a bygone era.

After exploring the residence and grounds, visitors can stop by the on-site cafe and gift shop – ideal for picking up mementos.

Fiona Whitty soaked in the beauty of one of the UK’s most breathtaking spots and found a novel way to get away from the hubbub for a little while

With a speed limit on the lake of 10mph this was never going to be a fast and furious boat ride.

But our slow and steady jaunt across Windermere was the perfect escape from the frenetic Lake District crowds back on the shoreline. Sauntering along at just two miles an hour in our dainty self-drive electric motorboat, fish leaping from the water next to us and dragonflies buzzing overhead suited us down to the ground.

Being electric, the boat was quiet and environmentally friendly. And thanks to the 10mph speed limit we didn’t have to worry about dodging water skiers and jet bikes – just the large pleasure cruises which bizarrely seemed to approach out of nowhere.

Our most stressful decision was whether to roll back to soft top or wait until the grey clouds above had dispersed. We chose to throw caution to the wind and throw it back regardless.

OPINION

Milo Boyd

I didn’t regret it one bit. The best way to avoid the tourist throng mooching around Windermere is definitely to get out on the water instead. Since lockdown, the iconic Lake District town has been struggling with visitor numbers. According to Visit Britain, the Lake Windermere cruises that leave from Bowness were the eighth most popular paid tourist attraction in England last year. In 2022, they attracted more visitors than Stonehenge, Windsor Castle, and St Paul’s Cathedral.

One of the best ways to slip the crowds, I discovered, is to jump behind the wheel and motor off yourself.

We’d picked up the boat from Windermere Lake Cruises’ Bowness Dock hire point and been advised that in our hour slot, we’d be able to motor around a mile up the water and back. The route took us past Windermere’s largest island Belle Isle, acres of woodland filled with oak, sycamore, beech and birch, grandiose fells with tops hidden in the clouds and beauty spots like Queen Adelaide’s Hill, famed for its views.

As backdrops go, it was as idyllic as they come. (£46 for two adults, each extra adult £8). Afterwards, we parked up in Windermere village and wandered through Elleray Wood – one of the forests we’d spotted from the boat – and up to Orrest Head, a 239 metre-high hill with a delightful outlook rippling out over the lake and the fells beyond.

Ardent walker and author Alfred Wainwright hiked up to this very spot as a young man and the views he took in sparked his obsession with the Lake District, leading to his famous Pictorial Guides to the Lakeland Fells series. It was easy to see why.

With a hefty fill of peace, quiet and serenity under our belts we later headed to the adventure mecca of Zip World Windermere further up the eastern shore of the lake.

After doing a pretty good job of introducing high-octane fun to Snowdonia Zip World have since expanded into other UK venues too, like this one. But the remit remains the same – to thrill, excite and terrify. There are several activities at The Windermere site but my partner Tim and I thoughtfully volunteered our son Freddie, 16, and family friend Rory to take part in the most hardcore – the full trek treetop adventure course.

The two-to-three-hour circuit involved a series of obstacles designed to challenge – and seemingly scare the pants off you.

Freddie and Rory navigated see-saw planks, tightrope-style shimmies, zip lines and wobbly bridges all at up to an eye-watering 15 metres off the ground.

The aerial skateboards, where they had to balance on a moving plank of wood and watch their feet skid a lot faster than the rest of their body (while being very high up of course), was certainly one of the most entertaining bits for us observers to see.

It was great fun – both for the doers and watchers. (from £39pp).

We were staying about 40 minutes from Windermere by car at another beautiful spot – Landal Twin Lakes, nestled discreetly in woods in Tewitfield near Carnforth, just over the Cumbria border in Lancashire.

One of Landal’s newest resorts, it was small, laid-back and smartly kept with a series of beautifully appointed lodges set around – you guessed it – a pair of twinkling lagoons.

Ours had three bedrooms, with a huge master one up on a cool mezzanine level. Two bedrooms had en-suites and there was a further family bathroom to boot. We certainly never needed to queue for the loo.

But it was the enormous double-height, open-plan living area that really stood out, with floor-to- ceiling windows and patio doors at the lake-end letting the outside in and providing us with a stunning vista.

The wine cooler and dishwasher in the smart fitted kitchen added to the touch of luxury. Decking at the front also allowed us to enjoy fresh air and sunshine by the calming water while a hot tub, carefully concealed from neighbours by a high hedge, gave us a warm respite during cooler moments.

I could imagine snuggling up in the bubbles during a winter stay, snowflakes fluttering overhead and a romantic smattering of white icing crowning the lake.

The fact there were no other facilities on site – no spa, restaurant, entertainment or communal areas – gave Landal Twin Lakes even more of a peaceful air.

All in all, the accommodation was top-notch – and the setting bliss. We felt a world away from all life’s hustle and bustle.

When we could drag ourselves out of the hot tub for long enough the wider area offered plenty of walks, pretty villages and wonderful views over hills and coast.

A hike up Warton Crag rewarded us with the opportunity to survey the vast Morecambe Bay, with its wide sweep of sandflats and stretches of salt marsh.

Keen to explore the landscape more, we later motored over to Arnside, a quaint seaside resort at the River Kent estuary. To take advantage of the sunshine, we bypassed inviting pubs and cafes and instead sat on the pier to tuck into fish and chips – while dodging hungry seagulls.

Then afterwards, we headed to the quiet village of Silverdale, where we ambled down the beach, clambering over rocks and skimming stones with the Lake District fells standing majestically in the background.

Away from the coast and just down the road from Landal Twin Lakes lies Greenlands Farm Village, which offered family fun from archery and quad biking to a very well-thought-out indoor crazy golf course.

The on-site shop sold lots of locally produced goodies like craft ale, cakes and spirits – plus fresh milk from a nearby farm that you pumped out yourself from a churn.

The Longlands Inn across the road was a comfy and friendly place for a much-needed breather and a very tasty pale ale called Fell Walker from the Bowness Bay Brewery. It was nearly as relaxing as a slow and steady jaunt on Windermere.

GET THERE

Landal Twin Lakes is just off junction 35 of the M6. You’ll need a car to get around.

BOOK IT

A three-night stay in a three-bedroom lodge at Landal Twin Lakes for up to six people costs from £719. See landal.co.uk

MORE INFO

visitlakedistrict.com, visitlancashire.com.

This small but mighty market town was put back on the map after it reopened its huge food market, and is now a bustling community attracting thousands of visitors

A small market town underwent a major transformation and is now a thriving hub for food, shopping and picture-postcard vistas.

The market town of Altrincham, just 30 minutes from Manchester, offers a serene escape from the bustling city. In a vibrant scene, Altrincham is brimming with independent shops, a booming food scene and family-friendly attractions, among its strong community feel and picturesque landscapes.

However, Altrincham wasn’t always a thriving hub that attracted visitors near and far. Just over a decade ago, it was a much quieter town, known simply as a rural area outside Manchester, with closed-down shops and a high street that lacked appeal to visitors.

But after the town reopened Altrincham Market in 2014 with a contemporary, trendy twist, it revamped the area. The Altrincham Market & Market House became “the catalyst for change” in the area and is said to have revived “the modern market town” by offering a huge culinary scene from independent eateries.

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Altrincham has since welcomed thousands of visitors to its covered market, located in a stunning Grade II-listed building with steel beams and arched windows. Nestled in the heart of the town, the market has a spacious seating area where visitors can sample the delights from six kitchens and two bars while dining among friends.

Described as an “Independent foodie heaven”, there’s wood-fired pizza from Honest Crust, Tender Cow’s flat iron steak and chips, or delicious filling pies from Great North Pie Co. There’s also a selection of craft beers to enjoy at Jack in the Box, as well as beverages at Reserve Wines and Market House Coffee.

The food market is open Tuesday to Saturday, 9am to 10pm, and Sunday, 9am to 6pm. The market also offers a shopping area, with traders selling vintage fashion, homeware, artisan goods and crafts, which is open Friday 8am to 3pm, Saturday 8am to 4pm, and Sunday 10am to 4pm.

Offering an exceptional day out, one visitor shared on TripAdvisor: “Sitting down in the old market halls in Altrincham is an experience you don’t want to miss. Around the tables are several restaurants where you can order various types of food/drinks/desserts. Casual atmosphere, beautiful location, great food.”

“Absolutely fabulous. Such a choice of food, wine and the atmosphere is wonderful. Loved it. Definitely worth a visit. We will be back very soon,” a second shared. As a popular hotspot, one added: “Really like it here, loads of choice to eat, but sadly not many market stalls now. Mainly focused on food. Seating can be tough at peak times, but if you walk around the full site, there’s usually something available. There’s an app to order food, but it’s a bit rubbish, so I just go to the stall and order there.”

Among Altrincham’s landscapes are green spaces and parks, along with paths along the picturesque River Bollin. Just a short drive from the town centre, there’s also the National Trust Dunham Massey Hall & Gardens, set within sprawling grounds with a deer park and country manor that was temporarily used as the Stamford Military Hospital during World War I.

Elsewhere in Altrincham, there is a catalogue of high-street and independent shops, along with a number of eateries, from the Italian Damo’s, Papa Dutch for pancakes, tapas dishes from Porta and Nahm Prik for some delicious Thai. Plus, there are bars to catch up with friends, including Costello’s Bar and Cheshire Tap, with Kennedy’s Irish Bar proving popular for a night out.

For something a little cosier during a day out and to grab a hot drink, there’s Gran T’s Coffee House, Two Brothers Coffee, and Rise and Grind Cafe. Visitors certainly won’t go hungry during a trip to the charming town.

Altrincham is also home to a sprawling ice skating rink, Planet Ice, for a fun-packed day out, with public sessions available, and to the ice hockey team, Manchester Storm. The Altrincham Little Theatre and the Altrincham Garrick Theatre present stage productions, while Inch Arts offers workshops and various events, so there’s plenty to keep everyone entertained.

Do you have a travel story to share? Email webtravel@reachplc.com

THE PAD

If sleeping in a hut doesn’t sound very luxe, how about one with a Dyson hairdryer, Le Creuset crockery and a dishwasher?

Nestled on the verdant slopes of Stonor Park Estate, Quercus is a whimsical en-suite hideaway – one of two on the Drovers’ Hill site – and is both cosy and elevated.

With shuttered windows, a log burner and four-poster bed, it’s perfect for the ultimate reset.

Wake up to misty views of elegant Stonor House and roaming herds of deer, before firing up the barbecue for an alfresco brekky.

Take the relaxation up a notch by booking the miniature, Scandi-inspired Reset Wild Spa, just a short stroll away.

Dashing between its scenic outdoor sauna and cold-plunge tubs takes willpower, but the endorphin rush is so worth it.

One-hour sessions cost £25 per person (Resetwildspa.co.uk).

EXPLORE

Stonor’s 12th-century manor house is still family owned and is practically in your back garden.

Ogle the lush tapestry and intricate walnut furniture, then take a stroll through the quaint walled garden.

Entry costs £13 per person (Stonor.com).

Exploring is thirsty work, so head to nearby Oaken Grove Vineyard, for a vine-growing masterclass.

You’ll learn everything from planting to harvesting grapes with super- knowledgeable owner, Phil, and there’s plenty of wine to wash it all down with, including a citrusy sparkling pinot noir rosé.

A two-hour tour costs £25 per person (Oakengrovevineyard.co.uk).

If gin’s more your thing, book a tour and tasting at Henley Distillery – another family affair – to sip on locally made classic, spiced, pink and fruit versions, while watching the stills gurgle and boil.

A one-hour tour costs £20 per person (Thehenleydistillery.co.uk).

Picturesque Henley-on-Thames is just down the road – be sure to rummage in Duke Street’s Tudor House Antiques, an Aladdin’s cave stacked ceiling-high with quirky figurines, vases and road signs.

REFUEL

Beat the afternoon slump with velvety Milo & Malteser gelato, £4.45 a scoop, at Gelato Henley (Gelatohenley.co.uk), or tuck into a sticky, fluffy lardy cake, £4.95, at Warings Bakery (Waringsbakery.co.uk).

For the perfect lunch pitstop, head to The Cheese Shed at Nettlebed Creamery, 10 minutes’ drive from your hut.

Order the legendary toastie with organic cheeses and butter made on-site, £6.95 – it has the perfect balance of ooze and crunch (Nettlebed creamery.com).

Nearby Turville, where The Vicar Of Dibley was filmed, is postcard-pretty with chocolate-box cottages and cosy village pub The Bull & Butcher.

Feast on crumbly shortcrust Welsh lamb and mint pie with creamy mash, £19.80, beside the crackling fire.

It pairs perfectly with a pint of local sweet but hoppy Brakspear Gravity ale, £4.90 (Thebullandbutcher.com).

BOOK IT

Stays at Drovers’ Hill at Stonor cost from £150 a night (Stonor.com/drovers-hill).

PACK IT

Feb. 14 (UPI) — The Routt County, Colorado, Coroner’s Office has identified the four victims who died in a plane crash while approaching a Steamboat Springs airport early Friday morning.

The victims are Aaron Stokes, 47, Jackson Stokes, 21, Colin Stokes, 21, and Austin Huskey, 37, the Steamboat Pilot reported.

Aaron Stokes is the father of Jackson Stokes, but it is unclear if he also is the father of Colin Stokes.

Aaron Stokes was a resident of Franklin, Tenn., which is where the flight originated on Thursday before making a brief stop in Kansas City and then proceeding to Steamboat Springs.

Franklin is located about 20 miles south of Nashville and is home to many country music stars and other celebrities.

Aaron Stokes was the founder of Shop Fix Academy, which assisted the owners of independent auto shops, according to his Ever Loved obituary.

“The Franklin, Tennessee, community and the global automotive industry are deeply saddened by the tragic passing of Aaron Stokes, a visionary entrepreneur, mentor and beloved family man,” the obituary says.

“A self-made multi-millionaire with 25 years of entrepreneurial experience, Aaron’s influence extended significantly within the industry,” it continues. “He successfully owned and operated five auto repair shops and hosted the popular radio show Fixin’ Cars with Aaron Stokes.”

The obituary describes him as a “cherished member of the Franklin community. Known for his vibrant personality, kindness, and adventurous spirit, he embraced life with enthusiasm.

“He was a devoted husband and father, and his family has requested privacy during this difficult time. Friends remember him for his deep faith and unwavering integrity.”

The plane crashed at 12:20 a.m. MST near the summit of Emerald Mountain, which is located southeast of Steamboat Springs and the Yampa River.

The remote crash site required a local rescue team to recover the victims’ bodies.

ALS Aviation LLC of Franklin is the registered owner of the single-engine, turboprop Epic Aircraft E1000 that crashed and caused the deaths of all four aboard it.

Initial reports do not say which of the four deceased passengers was piloting the aircraft or if ALS might have been owned by Aaron Stokes.

The company was formed in 2021 and dissolved in 2024, but its ownership certificate is valid through 2031.

The Federal Aviation Administration and National Transportation Safety Board are investigating the crash and its cause.

SACRAMENTO — Gov. Gavin Newsom sat onstage at the Munich Security Conference in Germany on Friday and described one of the primary ways he is responding as the Trump administration shifts federal climate priorities.

“I’m showing up,” he said.

In recent months, that has meant trips to Brazil, Switzerland and now Germany, where he has repeatedly positioned California as a global climate partner. The travel has also revived a recurring question from critics and watchdog groups: Who pays for those trips?

In many cases, the costs are not borne by taxpayers. The governor’s office said his international travel is paid for by the California State Protocol Foundation, a nonprofit that is funded primarily by corporate donations and run by a board Newsom appoints.

For decades, California governors have relied on nonprofits to pick up the tab for official travel, diplomatic events and other costs that would otherwise be paid with taxpayer funds.

“The Foundation’s mission is to lessen the burden on California taxpayers by reimbursing appropriate expenses associated with advancing the state’s economic and diplomatic interests,” said Jason Elliott, a former high-ranking advisor to Newsom, who the governor added to the foundation’s board.

While the arrangement helps the state’s pocketbook, critics say it is another avenue for corporate interests to gain influence.

“The problem with the protocol foundation and others like it is that donors to these foundations receive access to the politicians whose travel they fund,” said Carmen Balber, executive director of the advocacy group Consumer Watchdog.

When did nonprofits start paying for gubernatorial travel?

The protocol foundation was created as a tax-exempt charity during Republican Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger’s administration in 2004.

Similar nonprofits have existed since Gov. George Deukmejian created one in the 1980s. In the early 2000s, Gov. Gray Davis dramatically increased the use of nonprofits to cover travel, housing and political events.

When Schwarzenegger left office, his supporters turned the protocol foundation over to Democratic Gov. Jerry Brown’s backers, who in turn handed it over to Newsom’s camp. The foundation describes its mission in federal tax filings as “relieving the State of California of its obligations to fund certain expenditures of the Governor’s Office.”

Newsom appoints members to the foundation board, which then is responsible for determining what expenses to cover in the governor’s office. In its most recent tax filing covering 2024, the foundation lists its board chair as Steve Kawa, who served as Newsom’s chief of staff when he was mayor of San Francisco. The foundation’s secretary in those filings is Jim DeBoo, who was Newsom’s chief of staff in the governor’s office until 2022.

The foundation reported total revenue of $1.3 million in 2024 and, after expenses, had a balance of less than $8,000.

What is the foundation paying for?

Publicly available records are vague, but annual financial disclosure forms show the foundation paid more than $13,000 for the governor’s 2024 trip to Italy, where he delivered a speech on climate change at the Vatican.

That same year, the foundation paid nearly $4,000 for his trip to Mexico City to attend the inauguration of Mexico’s first female president, Claudia Sheinbaum. The cost of both trips included flights, hotel and meals for his “official travel,” according to the disclosure records, which are filed with the Fair Political Practices Commission and known as Form 700s.

Newsom has reported receiving $72,000 in travel, staff picnics and holiday events from the protocol foundation since he took office in 2019, according to the disclosures.

The foundation paid $15,200 for the governor’s 2023 trip to China, where he visited five cities in seven days during an agenda packed with meetings, sightseeing and celebrations, including a private tour of the Forbidden City.

In 2020, the foundation paid $8,800 for Newsom to travel to Miami for Super Bowl LIV — where he said he was representing the state as the San Francisco 49ers faced the Kansas City Chiefs.

The governor’s office said it did not yet have the amount picked up by the foundation for Newsom’s travel to Brazil to attend the United Nations climate summit known as COP30 or to Switzerland for the World Economic Summit.

Who are the donors behind the foundation?

In some cases, the well-heeled funders behind the foundation’s cash flow are easy to identify on state websites.

Donations to the foundation that are solicited directly or indirectly by Newsom are recorded with the Fair Political Practices Commission as behested payments. A behested payment occurs when an elected official solicits or suggests that a person or organization give to another person or organization for a legislative, governmental or charitable purpose.

The William and Flora Hewlett Foundation donated $300,000 in a 2023 behested payment earmarked for the California delegation traveling to China for the meetings on climate change. UC Berkeley gave $220,000 for the governor’s office’s trip to the Vatican in 2024.

Most donations simply indicate that they are directed for “general operating support” of the foundation. That includes two donations from the Amazon-owned autonomous vehicle company Zoox Inc. cumulatively worth $80,000.

Two charities set up to pay for Newsom’s inaugurations in 2019 and 2023 moved more than $5 million to the protocol foundation since 2019. The financial backers behind those inaugural charities include powerful unions, corporations, tribal casino interests, trade associations and healthcare giants — organizations with significant financial stakes in state policy decisions.

Past spending by the foundation has been criticized

During Schwarzenegger’s administration, his office avoided fully disclosing $1.7 million in travel costs paid for by the foundation, instead relying on vague internal memos and, in some cases, oral accounting, according to a 2007 Los Angeles Times investigation.

Schwarzenegger’s expenses picked up by the foundation included leased Gulfstream jets costing up to $10,000 per hour and suites going for thousands of dollars a night. The Times’ investigation found among the costs was $353,000 for a single round trip to China on a private jet in 2005.

The foundation also paid for Schwarzenegger’s travels to Japan, Europe, Canada and Mexico.

At the time, Schwarzenegger’s representatives told The Times the governor did not have to report the travel costs on his annual disclosure forms because the payments for the jets and suites were gifts to his office, not to him.

Newsom’s office said the governor travels commercially, not on private jets.

WHEN people ask me about city breaks, the question they ask has changed over the years.

It used to be about nightlife, food scenes or ticking off landmarks.

Now, more often than not, it’s parents asking a much more practical version of the same thing. Where is a good place to go with kids?

I’m Rob. I work in travel, I look at holiday pricing and trends every day, and I’ve stayed in more hotels than I can count.

I’m also 32, with a two-year-old and an eight-month-old. That combination has completely reshaped how I think about city breaks.

For me, the right family city break is about timing as much as place.

Sensible weather. Walkable centres. Enough going on without it feeling overwhelming. Somewhere forgiving if the day doesn’t go to plan.

This is my month-by-month guide to where I’d go on a city break with kids, based on value, weather, popularity and what’s actually on.

They’re all places I’d genuinely feel comfortable taking my own family.

January – Budapest, Hungary

January is a month where calm matters. After Christmas, families tend to want somewhere affordable, predictable and easy to manage, and Budapest fits that bill perfectly.

It is cold, usually around 3 to 5C, but that brings real advantages.

The city is quiet, hotel prices drop significantly, and the city moves at a slower pace. That makes it far less stressful with buggies and tired legs.

Budapest is compact, flat and well-connected by trams, which makes getting around simple.

Indoor attractions like cafés and historic bathhouses give you plenty of warm places to dip into throughout the day.

I’ve found January breaks from around £114pp for a family of four, which is exceptional value for a European capital.

February – Venice, Italy

February works for families because it offers spectacle without the chaos you get later in the year.

Venice Carnival brings colour, parades and street performers, particularly during the daytime when it feels surprisingly family-friendly.

Children get the magic of masks and costumes, while parents avoid the summer (and summer prices).

Temperatures hover around 7 to 9C, which keeps days comfortable for walking.

Vaporetto boats also turn everyday transport into part of the experience, which is always a win with younger travellers.

I’ve found February stays from around £130pp for a family of four, especially when staying just outside the historic centre.

March – Amsterdam, Netherlands

March is one of the most reliable months for a family city break, and Amsterdam is one of the easiest cities to do with children.

The weather sits around 10 to 12C, the city starts to feel brighter, and peak tourism is still a few weeks away.

It is flat, organised and designed for everyday life, which makes navigating it with kids feel intuitive rather than stressful.

March is also when parks, canal walks and museums like NEMO Science Museum really come into their own, giving you options that work whether the day is high energy or low key.

I’ve found March breaks from around £140pp for a family of four, before spring demand pushes prices up.

April – Athens, Greece

April is a sweet spot for Athens, especially for families who want warmth without exhaustion.

Temperatures typically range between 18 and 22C, which makes sightseeing genuinely enjoyable.

You can explore historic sites without battling summer heat or shoulder-to-shoulder crowds, and there is more space to take things at a slower pace.

Easter often falls in April, bringing local celebrations, food and atmosphere that make the city feel lived in rather than purely touristic.

It is a good month for mixing big sights with relaxed neighbourhood wandering.

I’ve found April city breaks from around £140pp for a family of four, which is strong value for such a bucket list destination.

May – Istanbul, Turkey

May works brilliantly for families because Istanbul becomes warm and lively without tipping into intense heat.

Temperatures sit around 22C to 25C, which is comfortable for walking, ferry rides and outdoor meals.

The city naturally breaks days into short, varied experiences, which is ideal with children. A boat ride, a park stop, some street food, then a rest.

Public transport is efficient, parks like Gülhane provide breathing space, and the sheer variety of sights keeps everyone engaged without needing a rigid plan.

I’ve found May breaks from around £130pp for a family of four, making it one of the best-value big cities in Europe at that time of year.

June – Stockholm, Sweden

June is when Stockholm really makes sense for families.

Long daylight hours, mild temperatures around 18 to 22C, and a strong outdoor culture mean days feel relaxed rather than rushed.

Parks, islands and waterfront walks are everywhere, and ferries turn getting around into part of the fun.

The city feels calm, clean and safe, with lots of space to pause when needed. Museums are interactive, and many attractions are designed with families in mind.

I’ve found June breaks from around £147pp for a family of four, which is good value considering how expensive Stockholm can be later in the summer.

July – Krakow, Poland

July is peak summer, but Krakow works for families because it combines warmth with value and a very manageable city layout.

Temperatures can reach 25 to 30°C, but the city centre is compact and full of shaded squares where you can slow things down when needed.

Summer festivals and outdoor cafés give the city energy without it feeling overwhelming, and everything is close enough that you are never committing to long days out.

Food prices are low, accommodation is good value, and it is an easy city to dip in and out of at your own pace.

I’ve found July breaks from around £144pp for a family of four, which is strong value for a European city in the heart of the school holidays.

August – Edinburgh, UK

August is Edinburgh at full tilt, but it is one of the rare cities where busyness actually works for families.

The Fringe Festival fills the city with daytime street performers, pop-up shows and family-friendly entertainment that you can stumble across without planning ahead.

That makes it ideal if you want flexibility rather than rigid itineraries.

Temperatures usually sit between 18 and 21C, which is perfect for walking without fatigue, and green spaces are never far away if you need a break.

I’ve found August flight and hotel breaks from around £217pp for a family of four. You could do it cheaper with hotel-only and driving or getting the train, but flights are often so reasonably priced that it still makes sense to fly.

September – Munich, Germany

September is a great time to visit Munich with kids.

Early autumn brings warm but comfortable days around 18 to 22C, and the city feels open and easy to navigate.

Oktoberfest adds colour and atmosphere during the day, with fairground rides and music that children enjoy, while the rest of the city remains calm and spacious.

It is easy to sample the buzz without being consumed by it, which is exactly what families need.

I’ve found September breaks from around £180pp for a family of four, particularly when travelling outside the busiest Oktoberfest weekends.

October – Seville

October is the month Seville really starts to shine for families.

The extreme summer heat has gone, leaving warm, comfortable days that suit walking and exploring.

Crowds thin out significantly, which makes the city feel calmer and easier to enjoy with children.

Public squares, parks and shaded streets give you natural places to pause, and the pace of life slows after peak season.

I’ve found October breaks from around £204pp for a family of four, which is good value for southern Spain at its most comfortable.

November – Naples, Italy

November is ideal for families who want a more relaxed, authentic city break.

Temperatures stay mild, usually between 15 and 18C, and tourist numbers drop sharply. That brings better prices and a much more local feel, with everyday life taking centre stage.

Naples is lively and unapologetically real, which many children find fascinating.

Simple pleasures like waterfront walks and excellent, inexpensive food carry the experience.

I’ve found November breaks from around £140pp for a family of four, making it one of the best-value Italian city breaks of the year.

December – Cologne, Germany

December works for families because everything is concentrated and atmospheric.

Christmas markets cluster around the cathedral and surrounding squares, making the city easy to explore on foot.

Lights, music, hot chocolate and gentle fairground rides deliver festive payoff without long days or complicated planning.

Short days actually suit the experience, as you do not need to do much to feel like you have seen plenty.

I’ve found December breaks from around £180pp for a family of four, outside the busiest Christmas market weekends.

City breaks with kids are not about doing more – they’re about choosing the right place at the right time.

Get the month right, and suddenly the weather cooperates, prices feel fair, crowds ease off, and cities become enjoyable rather than exhausting.

These are the places I would confidently take my own family. Thought-through, well-timed choices that work in real life.

The number of visitors is “overwhelming” the picture-perfect village

The “Venice of the Cotswolds” is now pushing for coaches to be barred from the village centre as fears mount over “Disneyfication” and excessive tourism. Roughly 100 residents of Bourton-on-the-Water raised their worries about overtourism during a November gathering before Shire Hall and District officials.

This week, the Parish Council backed a motion requesting an experimental traffic regulation order (ETRO) to limit coach entry into Station Road from the Fosseway, Rissington Road and the Steeps. The move represents a major development in Bourton’s continuing battle to tackle longstanding local anxieties regarding the effect of substantial coach traffic volumes on principal routes cutting through the village.

District Councillor Jon Wareing (LD, Bourton Village), who has championed the cause in recent years, urged parish councillors to back the proposal asking Gloucestershire County Council for the ETRO, reports Gloucestershire Live.

“This is not a new position,” he stated. “The Parish Council previously supported similar measures in 2024, reflecting sustained public concern about congestion, safety and quality of life impacts linked to unrestricted coach access through the village centre.”

He noted that circumstances have shifted, with greater clarity that enforcement is now feasible, including via Automatic Number Plate Recognition technology.

This development is viewed as eliminating one of the traditional obstacles to implementing traffic restrictions. Cllr Wareing stated that all parties must begin collaborating to identify a sustainable long-term solution akin to those implemented in destinations including Clovelly, St Ives, York, Bath, Oxford and Cambridge.

He emphasised that the decision ought to be viewed as an initial step towards addressing the broader systemic problem of the substantial volume of visitors descending on Bourton in vehicles annually.

“It’s not just coaches – it’s cars as well,” he said. “People often refer to Bourton as the Venice of the Cotswolds.

“Venice is widely seen as unsustainable because visitor numbers overwhelm a small, fragile historic city – pushing out residents, damaging heritage and infrastructure, and putting pressure on the environment, retail and public services.

“The same risks exist here. We could become Venice in the Cotswolds in terms of the impact on our heritage village.

“We need to reverse the ‘Disneyfication’ of Bourton and develop a regenerative approach, where tourism is managed deliberately to support local life rather than displace it.”

County Councillor Paul Hodgkinson (LD, Bourton-on-the-Water and Northleach) revealed he understands residents’ exasperation with certain coaches failing to utilise the designated drop-off and collection point on Meadow Way.

He confirmed that Shire Hall is currently assessing the effectiveness of the interim measure, which was devised to divert coach traffic away from the village centre.

“We are reviewing the effectiveness of that this week and will do so again in May. It’s really important that all coaches use the point legally,” he said.

“I am committed to making sure residents are safe and that coaches cause the minimum disruption, whilst helping local businesses to be successful.

“At the County Council we will definitely take this request seriously and I’ll be talking to council officers about how it could work.”

HAVING travelled to 41 countries, as well as presented travel shows including A Place in the Sun, its safe to say I’ve learned a few money saving tricks along the way.

And as a mum trying to pinch the pennies on a family holiday, I realised two huge mistakes people make when it came to booking hotels – and it saved me hundreds.

A big way to save money is hotel hopping – and this isn’t just for the luxury travellers and celebrities.

The money hack means you can save if instead of one hotel for a week, you try two.

This works by booking the more expensive place midweek, as this is when rates are lower.

You then move to the cheaper hotel when prices go up, which is usually at the weekend.

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I realised this when travelling as a family of four, in Göcek, Turkey.

The small marina town is full of expensive boutique hotels, so prices can easily spiral when trying to find space for both parents and kids.

Instead, we split our Turkey trip between Dalaman and Göcek, as midweek, we spotted a suite in a five-star area for £105 a night, hundreds cheaper than a weekend stay.

But don’t just stop there as it isn’t the only way to get a bargain.

We saved even more by calling the hotel, rather than just clicking the book button.

When I call a hotel, I don’t haggle — I just ask one simple question: “What’s the best price you can do if we book direct?”

After chatting to them, not only did they drop the price from £105 to £80 a night, but they also threw in free breakfast for all four of us, which would cost £15 each per night.

Over five nights, that alone would have added up fast.

In the end we paid just £400 for five nights midweek, while the exact same suite at the weekend would have cost £200 a night alone.

Had we stayed on for the full week, the total would have jumped sharply — for the same room.

So instead, we packed up and moved on, and got a mini-adventure out of it.

Once you realise hotel prices change by the night, you stop booking holidays by the week and start booking them properly.

We used the same approach in Spain, where we booked a five-star hotel on the Costa del Sol midweek, then a smaller hotel in Cádiz at the weekend for £95 a night.

ONE EXTRA HACK: “five-star location” without five-star prices

We also save money by staying in an apartment or Airbnb in a five-star area, instead of an all-inclusive resort.

For a family of four, we found an apartment to fit us all for £110 a night, compared to a nearby resort suite which was £280 a night.

We travel as a family of four for 12 weeks of the year and It’s the one habit that’s saved our family the most money — and given us our best memories.

IT was when my eight-year-old son Reggie returned to our table – holding a plate of 20 Turkish delights and grinning from ear to ear – that I caved in.

“OK, we are on holiday,” I said as he merrily dished them out to his twin brother Teddie and 12-year-old sister Frankie-Beau.

In fairness, my wife Kayleigh and I had hardly set an example, because the 5-star Liberty Lykia family resort in Oludeniz, on the south-west coast of Turkey, is an all- inclusive foodies’ fantasyland.

Its huge main restaurant offers more than 100 options at breakfast, lunch and dinner, and snacks throughout the day.

On several evenings of our seven-day stay we opted to dine at one of the six sensational paid-for a la carte restaurants, starting from just €5 per child, while watching the sun set across the Mediterranean Sea.

The star of the show was an interactive, flame-fuelled, theatrical dinner of lobster and steak at the open-grill Teppanyaki.

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At the outdoor Pinara Turkish restaurant, you even get a side order of belly dancing.

And all that is just, well, for starters.

A selection of snack shacks, including a well-stocked patisserie, will tempt you throughout the day.

And there’s self-serve draft beer and wine beside the pools and the private beach.

The biggest of the many bars, Apollon, at the heart of the resort, serves more than 30 indulgent cocktails, 24/7.

Thankfully you can easily burn off the over-indulgence.

Within the 400-acre resort, which is set in a tranquil cove among pine forests and overlooked by the majestic Babadag Mountain, are tennis, padel and sandy volleyball courts, an archery area, mini-golf course, ping-pong tables, a climbing wall and two AstroTurf football pitches.

There’s also a gym and exercise classes, as well as all manner of watersports.

Look up in the sky at any time of day and you will be mesmerised by paragliders drifting down to the hotel’s landing strip.

But don’t worry, there’s no need to strap the kids in for the ride, as their every whim can be taken care of at the brilliantly welcoming and free Mini Club, which has endless activities for all age groups.

There’s even a free babysitting service.

With the young’uns entertained, we enjoyed a few hours at the more peaceful adults-only pool and bar.

There you’ll find the luxurious Ocean Spa, where you can pamper yourself with a massage while you gaze out at the Turquoise Coast, so-called because of the striking clear-blue sea. W

hen we were then finally ready to reunite with the family, we headed to the beautiful beach area designed for youngsters, complete with a wave breaker made from rocks and stones.

But the jewel in Liberty Lykia’s crown is its very own waterpark — aptly called Children’s Paradise, with its numerous slides for kids and adults.

It’s a truly vast resort, set into the hilly mountainside.

Steps are steep but there are plenty of slopes and more than enough lifts.

And if little legs are tired after a long day of thrills, on-site shuttle buses taxi you around.

You can even call reception for a golf buggy to take you to and from your room day or night.

Bands and DJs

Our room was a modern sea-view Deluxe Family Suite with walk-in shower, air-conditioning, a superking-sized bed, two single beds and a sofa bed.

The free mini bar is restocked daily so you can enjoy a drink on the balcony.

We were just a two-minute walk from the resort’s main square — a beautiful Mediterranean plaza with a wine bar, shops selling clothes, trainers, sunglasses and souvenirs, an arcade, a craft coffee shop and a boutique for handbags and shoes.

After the sun sets, the main swimming pool hosts illuminated remote-controlled boats, and the stunning outdoor amphitheatre delivers an impressive variety of West End-like productions.

The main square is the lively entertainment venue for bands and DJs taking to the stage until midnight.

It’s not quiet, so do request a room a little farther away if you have very young children.

For anyone who wants to keep the party going, there’s an underground nightclub open until 2am.

And you can stagger out into the nearby snack bar that’s open until 7.30am if, somehow, you are still hungry.

After a week of family fun and feasting in the sun, none of our clothes fit — and the dentist will have some choice words for our kids.

But we left with the wonderful aftertaste of a holiday that was, in the words of my daughter, one big Turkish delight.

Feb. 13 (UPI) — All four people aboard a single-engine aircraft died when it crashed shortly after midnight local time on Friday in a remote location on the southern side of Emerald Mountain near Steamboat Springs, Colo.

Routt County Sheriff Doug Scherar confirmed their deaths in a prepared statement shared with The Denver Post.

“All four victims have been recovered from the scene, and the Routt County Coroner’s Office is working to notify their families today,” Sherar said.

The Epic Aircraft E1000 in which the four were flying is a high-end turboprop aircraft that is owned by ALC Aviation LLC in Franklin, Tenn., which bought the plane in 2024.

The aircraft crashed at 12:20 a.m. while approaching the Steamboat Springs Airport, and the crash site was located near the top of Emerald Mountain, which is 8,252 feet tall.

Franklin is about 20 miles south of Nashville and is home to many country music stars and other celebrities. The flight originated in Nashville and made a stop in Kansas City before proceeding to Steamboat Springs.

The names of the deceased have not been released pending notification of their next of kin.

The Federal Aviation Administration and National Transportation Safety Board are investigating the plane crash.

The flight covers 9,537 miles but doesn’t have economy cabin

The world’s longest flight connects America to Asia, with travellers spending nearly 19 hours in the air. Singapore Airlines currently holds the record for the lengthiest long-haul journey, operating between New York’s JFK Airport and Singapore Changi.

Covering a staggering 9,537 miles, the marathon trip takes 18 hours and 50 minutes and has been running since the airline launched it in 2018. Singapore Airlines deploys its latest Airbus A350-900ULR on the route, an aircraft capable of remaining airborne for more than 20 hours without refuelling.

The plane achieves these extraordinary flight times thanks to an enhanced fuel system, which increases the aircraft’s total fuel capacity to a remarkable 24,000 litres.

That said, the journey isn’t available to everyone, as Singapore Airlines has ditched economy class on this particular route. Instead, the airline offers 67 Business Class seats and 94 Premium Economy Class seats.

Premium Economy travellers can enjoy the benefits of extra legroom, a footrest, and an adjustable headrest. They also have access to noise-cancelling headphones and WiFi for the duration of their flight, reports the Express.

Those in Business class get maximum privacy, with their seats converting into fully flat beds for a proper kip whilst travelling.

The aircraft features a host of luxury amenities including higher ceilings, larger windows and bespoke lighting engineered to reduce jetlag. The carrier claims that the plane’s cutting-edge carbon composite airframe also allows for superior air quality.

Anyone hoping to secure a seat will need deep pockets, with tickets routinely costing well into five figures. Singapore Airlines’ Chief Executive, Mr Goh Choon Phong, has previously described the new route as the “fastest way” to journey between the two metropolitan hubs.

He said: “Singapore Airlines has always taken pride in pushing the boundaries to provide the best possible travel convenience for our customers, and we are pleased to be leading the way with these new non-stop flights using the latest technology, ultra-long-range Airbus A350-900ULR.

“The flights will offer our customers the fastest way to travel between the two cities – in great comfort, together with Singapore Airlines’ legendary service – and will help boost connectivity to and through the Singapore hub.”

Singapore Airlines’ aircraft is undoubtedly impressive, but the world’s largest plane remains the Antonov An-225 Mriya, which can transport “52 mature elephants”.

WHEN you picture Japan, what comes to mind?

Ultra-modern cities drenched in neon lights? Steam rising from a bowl of soul-warming ramen?

Maybe it’s the stillness of a Zen garden, or the striking silhouette of a Japanese castle. Perhaps it’s Sashimi hand-crafted with the freshest of fish.

You may think that experiencing all of the above means spending weeks journeying across the country with a rail pass and a backpack.

Luckily, you can find them all in one underrated region: Hyōgo prefecture.

Next door to touristy Kyoto, Hyōgo offers Samurai castles, hot spring baths, thrilling theme parks and world-class Wagyu all in one place.

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Hyōgo truly earns its nickname “Japan in Miniature”, as it packs some of Japan’s finest cultural and historical sights into one diverse region.

Plus, there’s never been a better time for Brits to visit Japan.

With the new JESTA travel authorisation system expected to arrive in 2028 – which will require Brits to pre-register before travelling – it’s worth ticking the trip off of your bucket list before the new program and its fees are introduced.

Plus, the yen remains weak against the British pound in 2026, so you can stretch your money further on food, shopping and hotels than ever before.

I enjoyed bowls of delicious ramen for just ¥700 (£3.28), and went shopping for high-quality clothing in UNIQLO for a fraction of UK prices.

So to see what this underrated region has to offer, I explored Hyōgo Prefecture from top to bottom – from the coastal hot spring town of Kinosaki Onsen, down to the glitz of Kobe.

Himeji – samurai era castles, Japanese gardens and traditional restaurants

You might recognise this castle as Tiger Tanaka’s ninja training school in the Bond film You Only Live Twice.

Himeji Castle has also appeared in many classic samurai films such as Ran and Kagemusha, but this is much more than a famous filming location.

Himeji Castle is Japan’s most-visited castle – and it’s widely considered the most beautiful, too.

It’s easy to see why, I thought, as I approached the strikingly white hilltop fortress.

Himeji Castle is a listed UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned as the best-preserved feudal era samurai castle in Japan.

Although the hilltop fortification has existed since 1333, the castle as we see it today was built back in the early 17th century.

Since then, Himeji Castle remains remarkably intact, surviving events such as WWII bombing.

The bright white exterior and elegant tiered roofs are said to resemble a heron taking flight, earning it the nickname of the White Heron Castle.

Actually getting inside the castle, however, was quite the task.

Expertly designed to ward off intruders, you must get past multiple moats and a whopping 83 defensive features to make it inside.

These include false entrances, terrifying stone drops, plenty of gun ports and a disorienting, winding path up to the castle.

Even the plants beside the stone walls were a strategic part of the defence, with thorny, tangled overgrowth designed to stop attackers who tried to escape.

“Imagine you were an intruder trying to get in” said my Himeji Castle tour guide, as she pointed out endless stone drops, hidden gun ports and false entrances. “It would be near impossible!”

After admiring the architecture, I walked just five minutes to the peaceful grounds of the Kōko-en Garden.

Inside Kōko-en are nine Japanese gardens built upon the grounds of old samurai residences, with a large koi fish pond and traditional tea house.

These gardens are a must-see no matter which season you visit Japan.

Spring brings cherry blossoms, summer bursts with greenery and lotus flowers, whilst my winter visit still glowed with autumnal orange.

After wandering through bamboo, crossing stone bridges and hopping stepping stones over glossy waters, I settled down in the garden’s restaurant for a bite to eat.

Here you have your choice between lunch sets including grilled eel, crispy tempura and fluffy pancakes – all served with plenty of green tea and calming waterfall views.

Himeji felt like a snapshot of Japanese excellence, where expert craftsmanship and manicured gardens sit side by side in one unmissable city.

Kobe – world-famous Wagyu and glitzy nightlife

Just a 20-minute ride on the ultra-fast Shinkansen will take you from the historical marvels of Himeji straight to Hyōgo’s bustling capital: Kobe.

This glitzy city was made for wandering into jazz bars and soaking up neon lights, the lively promenade watched over by the glowing red Kobe Port Tower.

I spent days drifting between independent streetwear shops and artsy cafes, as well as making sure to stock up on clothes from trendy UNIQLO – which costs a fraction of the price in Japan compared to the UK.

Down by the waterfront at night, Kobe Harborland is the city at its most lively.

This area is packed with shops, museums, restaurants and a giant Ferris wheel, coming alive after dark.

But Kobe is best-known for its world-famous delicacy: Kobe beef.

To see if it lived up to the hype, I took a counter seat at a Teppanyaki restaurant to watch the chef cook the world-famous steak before my eyes.

I started by trying some Kobe beef sushi, priced at ¥1,260 (£6) – a dish I was unsure of at first, bu the raw beef dissolved on the tongue, leaving a rich, sweet flavour long after eating the rice.

Next came a whole platter packed with thin slices of delicate roast Kobe beef, served cold with a sweet sauce, priced at ¥2,970 (£14).

Last up was the dish I’d been waiting for: a Kobe beef fillet steak, which was buttery soft, oozing with juices and packed with Umami flavour.

Kobe beef steaks can certainly be a splurge (steak with veggies starts at ¥6,600, or £31 at Plaisir) but you can enjoy excellent Japanese beef on a budget too.

A premium Japanese beef burger, for example, costs just ¥1,300 (£6.16) at popular restaurant Brisk Stand.

In 2025, their signature Kittayatsu burger even won the Japan Burger Championship – not bad for a bite under £7.

Awaji Island – theme park paradise

Just a 30-minute bus hop from Kobe over the Akashi-Kaikyo suspension bridge, is Awaji Island – the home of jaw-dropping amusement parks.

Take your pick from three Hello Kitty attractions, fairy-tale and dinosaur worlds at Onokoro Theme Park, and anime fan heaven at a Naruto: Boruto themed land.

I chose to visit the Nijigen no Mori theme park – and whizz down a zip line into a giant Godzilla head.

The Godzilla Intercept Operation Awaji is the world’s largest Godzilla theme park land, made with the production company of the original movies.

The area includes a zip line, miniature movie, shooting game, museum, themed cafe and merchandise shop.

I opted for a light ticket, which grants access to the movie, zip line and shooting game for ¥2,800 (£13.25) per adult and ¥1,800 (£8.52) for children.

I shakily climbed several sets of stairs, and was asked if I’d prefer to zip past Godzilla’s body at 499 feet, or directly into his mouth at 531 feet.

I didn’t travel 13 hours to this Japanese island for nothing, so the choice to me was obvious.

The next and final task was to shoot at glowing targets on Godzilla’s body, whilst ducking down to avoid being seen by the creature.

I ended my visit by shopping for exclusive Godzilla gifts and eyeing up the unique meals on offer at the cafe – a Burning Godzilla Curry for ¥2,200 (£10.41) and Destroyah Hamburger Combo at ¥2,000 (£9.46).

You can book a ticket to the Godzilla Intercept Operation directly via the Nijigen no Mori website, or on apps such as Klook and GetYourGuide.

Kinosaki Onsen – a magical hot spring town

For something a little more relaxing, there’s the hot springs of Kinosaki Onsen Town.

An onsen is a traditional Japanese hot spring bath. These soothing geothermal pools are found all over Japan, thanks to the country’s volcanic landscape.

Onsens are said to have numerous health benefits due to their mineral-rich waters, and I was excited to check out their restorative reputation.

Kinosaki Onsen is a 1,300 year-old town where visitors can go onsen hopping, dipping in and out of seven public bathhouses lining its high street.

Visitors are encouraged to wear yukata (a lightweight Japanese robe), geta (traditional wooden sandals), as well as tabi (split-toe socks).

Kinosaki is a postcard-perfect town set along a quiet canal, lined by glowing stone lanterns and drooping willows. Dressed in traditional attire, I set out to explore its streets – and take part in the ritual of onsen.

The public bath experience is an unforgettable ritual, with a few customs to follow. Once shoes and belongings are stored away, you must bring only a small towel inside with you – which is often neatly folded upon your head when entering the water.

Once you’re in, it’s bliss, and I left with silky skin, and fully warmed through by the 40°C baths, ready to face the winter weather.

A Kinosaki day pass lets you dip in as many onsens as you please for just￥1,500 (£7.10).

They are available to buy at any of the seven bathhouses.

SOMETIMES it is easy to forget just how many stunning seaside destinations we have access to.

For gorgeous stretches of homegrown coastline, North Devon is one of the best places to go.

You’ll find breathtaking countryside plus endless attractions for all ages.

And, of course, the chance to indulge in the county’s famous cream tea (clotted cream first, followed by jam if you don’t want to be chased out of the region).

In fact, whatever the weather does, you’ll never be bored on a break in this corner of the South West.

My base for a weekend was cosy two-bed Rose Cottage, in the welcoming village of High Bickington.

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From the outside, this 18th-century thatched house with its garden full of scented blooms looks like something from the front of a postcard.

And inside, the rural “cottagecore” vibe continues with an inglenook fireplace, stone walls, wooden beams and a stunning slate floor.

Thoughtfully, amid all the higgledy-piggledy charm, there is also an abundance of hi-tech modern luxuries.

You’ll have no issue streaming your devices, and the Sonos surround sound system in the living room takes movie nights up a notch.

Meanwhile, there’s a traditional copper bath in one of the bedrooms — and a decidedly 21st-century hot tub outside.

It’s lovely and romantic, so spot on for cuddling up if you’ve escaped with your significant other, or perfect for channelling Cameron Diaz in The Holiday if, like me, it’s a solo trip.

Once settled, why not hop in the car to feel the golden sand between your toes (or maybe under your trainers if it’s wet) a short drive away at Saunton Sands?

This three-mile stretch of water is a surfing hotspot and great for people-watching if you don’t plan on riding any waves. You can also hire a wetsuit if you are feeling brave.

For a more relaxing day out, RHS Rosemoor should be high on your “must see” list.

With 65 biodiverse acres of themed garden “rooms” to explore, you’ll leave bursting with ideas for your own flower beds — or, in my case, window boxes.

I’m not that green-fingered, but you’re guaranteed to feel your shoulders drop when strolling around this wonderfully perfumed site.

This part of the world is perfect for people who love a potter.

So if your idea of bliss is, like mine, wandering around cute local towns and browsing shops, arty spaces and foodie stalls, you’ll soon find yourself losing track of time.

I spent a lovely few hours mooching around Bideford, which was packed with galleries, ceramics and other artisan treats.

South Molton is ideal for a grey day thanks to its indoor market.

Here, you will find lots of in- teresting crafts, including baskets called panniers, as well as snacks, gifts and other goodies.

Part of Rose Cottage’s appeal is how much you can access right on the doorstep.

A hike (or a gentle walk) across the grounds of the Millbrook Estate blew cobwebs away.

There are two private lakes for wild swimmers or those who fancy fishing. (Separately, of course!)

I’ll admit the alpacas I met slightly took me by surprise but, like all the locals, they seemed very friendly.

You’ll want to stay nearby when it comes to food, too.

Whether you want a traditional roast or a fancier “out-out” night of dining, the choice in North Devon is bountiful — and most restaurants come with a side order of amazing views.

The Pier House in Westward Ho! is perfect for sundowners and nibbles, and gave chic Costa Del Devon vibes on the sunny day I visited.

Or, for something a bit more traditional, The Globe in Beaford has incredible home-cooked pub grub.

You’ll find seafood that’s as fresh as it comes, so I’d suggest you try at least one dish containing the local crab meat, washed down with a glass of wine or two, then a long soak in that hot tub.

After all those country walks, you will be grateful for the bubbles.

HALF-TERM is officially here and if you’re looking for a way to keep your little ones occupied, we have just the thing.

The UK’s favourite theme parks are once again opening their gates this week, with a variety of events on offer.

Whether your child is a thrill-seeker or K-pop fan, there’s something for everyone this half-term.

Enjoy a well-deserved break with your family at discounted prices this off-season.

Scroll down to read all about the offers currently available at your favourite theme parks.

Alton Towers

Visitors can enjoy access to select areas of Alton Towers this February half-term as the Pirate Takeover Returns.

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Whether you join Captain Black’s motley crew for an exciting pirate adventure in Mutiny Bay and Towers Street, or venture into CBeebies Land, there’s something for everyong this half-term.

There will also be live entertainment, with pre-booked tickets starting from just £34, another 50 per cent saving.

Alton Towers will then re-open fully on March 14, with the brand new Bluey Ride in operation.

Legoland Windsor

Celebrating its 30th birthday, Legoland Windsor will welcome guests from February 14 to 23 before its official re-opening on March 14.

Advanced bookings start from £32, saving you half the price as on-the-day tickets.

With a variety of special events planned throughout the year for the park’s anniversary, fans can start with February’s Brick Days, which are “designed to unleash your imagination” and “immerse you in a world of creativity”.

Chessington World of Adventures

While the Zoo and Sea Life section of Chessington World of Adventures is open year-round, visitors will have access to select rides and attractions this half-term.

Enjoy wild rides and up-close animal talks as part of the fun activities this February.

The full theme park will re-open on March 20, including its a brand new Paw Patrol-themed land.

Visitors can pre-book online for £34, offering a 48 per cent saving compared with on-the-gate prices.

Drayton Manor

 Select rides at Drayton Manor will be open throughout half-term, including a K-pop takeover with live performances and themed entertainment.

The full park, including the soft play, train rides, and zoo, will be open on weekends from March 14 and then daily from April 1.

Online tickets start from £27.50, and £15 for those aged two to three, saving you nearly 40 per cent compared with on-the-door prices.

Paultons Park

Already re-opened for weekends, Paultons Park will welcome visitors on select rides this half-term.

Peppa Pig World will be open all week, offering “nine oinktastic rides and a giant indoor playzone”, making it ideal for all kinds of weather.

It will them open daily for the full season from March 25, with access to its new themed land Valgard: Realm of the Vikings beginning in May.

Advanced bookings start from £46.75, saving you more than 30 per cent per person.

Gulliver’s Land Theme Park

And Gulliver’s Land Theme Park will also host a half-term opening beginning on February 14.

Previously only indoor attractions have been open, but now select rides will also be available to customers.

Visitors can get a taste for the park’s Spring Specatular event, with early bird tickets starting from just £17 per person right now.

Other promotional offers are available for families during the off-season, with prices for a group of four starting from just £39.

A MAJOR UK train station has closed for nine days as planned upgrades get underway.

Rail passengers can expect disruptions as the bustling travel hub undergoes a “once-in-a-lifetime overhaul”.

Network Rail is investing £8 million in an upgrade to Manchester Piccadilly train station in an effort to reduce future service disruptions.

Track and signalling upgrades are scheduled to take place from Saturday, 14 February to 22 February.

The southern approach to station, which was built in the 1980s, will see significant upgrades to a stretch of track.

Network Rail previously explained that issues with its outdated infrastructure can disrupt all trains running in and out of Manchester.

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This amounts to around 400,000 trains into the station every year.

Manchester Piccadilly has advised passengers that no trains from the south and east of the city will run into the station over the half-term break.

Some trains from across the north will also be impacted as well as direct connections to Manchester Airport station, which were impacted by a signal failure earlier this week.

Services normally running to and from Manchester Piccadilly will terminate at other stations, including Stockport, over the next nine days.

Platforms 1-12 will be closed but the concourse will remain open to the public, while there will be a limited service westbound from platforms 13 and 14.

Julien Dehornoy, Network Rail’s North West & Central deputy regional managing director, said: “Once the job is done, we will have a better, more reliable railway. 

“The major overhaul over six railway lines can only take place during a full railway closure and we are working closely with train operators, TfGM and Manchester City Council on alternative travel plans to keep people on the move.”

Thousands of Uber, Bolt and Addison Lee drivers will log off on Valentine’s Day, urging customers to boycott ride-hailing apps as unions accuse firms and TfL of failing to address falling pay, safety risks and unfair working conditions.

Private hire drivers across the UK are urging customers to boycott major ride-hailing apps on Valentine’s Day as part of a protest over pay, working conditions and what they describe as regulatory failures.

Members of the Independent Workers of Great Britain (IWGB) Private Hire Drivers branch are asking consumers not to use Uber, Bolt or Addison Lee on Saturday 14 February, while drivers log off the platforms and join a motorcade in central London from 5pm to demand legislative reform.

Nader Awaad, chairman of the IWGB Private Hire Drivers branch, described drivers’ experiences as “systemic exploitation” caused by fare structures, rising operating costs and what he calls insufficient oversight from Transport for London (TfL).

Awaad, 59, from Walthamstow, began driving in 2019 after being made redundant from a senior management role. He told The Mirror: “The UK’s private hire industry is a wild west. With no protection from unfair dismissal, drivers see their livelihoods disappear in the blink of an eye.

“With no real safety measures, we are left unprotected from passenger violence, frequently resulting in serious injuries or, in the tragic case of our member Gabriel Bringye, death. And that’s before we even start talking about pay,” he said.

Gabriel Bringye, 37, was a much loved private hire driver from Tottemham, north London. In February 2021, he was fatally stabbed during a robbery by a group of teenagers who had booked his cab by chance. He died from blood loss despite attempting to defend himself.

The attack left a deep mark on the driving community, and following the trial, Bringye’s family established Gabriel’s Campaign for Driver Safety, calling for stronger protections for private hire drivers and measures to prevent future tragedies.

According to the IWGB, drivers can work 12 to 18-hour days just to break even, covering fuel, insurance, vehicle maintenance, traffic fines and platform commission. Awaad highlighted a case where a Heathrow-to-central London ride cost £111 for the passenger, but the driver was paid only £29. “After expenses, many drivers are earning less than the minimum wage,” he told us.

He also criticised “upfront” or “dynamic pricing,” which sets fares for passengers and pays drivers via algorithms. Research from Oxford University found that Uber driver pay has declined since the model’s introduction. Under this system, drivers have no say over fares and can bear the cost of delays or route changes.

The protest follows the Supreme Court ruling that Uber drivers are workers, entitled to minimum wage and holiday pay. Awaad argues operators responded by adjusting pay structures in ways that reduced earnings. Uber has said it complies with the ruling and provides worker protections, including holiday pay, pensions and minimum earnings guarantees.

Beyond pay, safety remains a concern. Drivers report risks of assault and abuse, along with sudden account deactivation by operators. Awaad insists TfL, as the licensing authority, should oversee any suspension decisions. The union also wants stricter passenger identity checks after incidents involving stolen or fraudulent accounts.

Awaad’s attempts to raise these concerns directly with TfL Commissioner Andy Lord, including offering detailed evidence, were reportedly declined.

When The Mirror reached out to TfL, a spokesperson said: “We take our responsibilities as the licensing authority seriously to ensure that everyone can travel safely and reliably. Operators must meet high standards in order to be licensed in London and we continually keep licensing requirements under review to ensure safe services for Londoners.”

The IWGB is lobbying Parliament for legislative changes addressing pay transparency, commission levels, safety protections, and due process in account suspensions.

Alex Marshall, IWGB president, urged public support: “If drivers and riders unite, we can push TfL and the government to implement protections similar to New York, France, Mexico and Barcelona. Drivers deserve fair pay, capped hours, holidays and safety measures. The time for change is now.”

Responding to concerns around pay and transparency, an Uber spokesperson said: “We regularly engage with drivers, especially through our industry-leading agreement with GMB Union, who are not taking part in this action. More and more people choose to earn with Uber because we offer flexibility over where and when they work, as well as offering the best benefits in the sector.

“Drivers have transparency over every trip they take – including the destination and their earnings – before they decide whether to accept it. All drivers receive a weekly summary of their earnings, which includes a clear breakdown of what Uber and the driver received from trips,” the statement concluded.

Similarly, a Bolt spokesperson said the company operates a different model outside London. “Through Bolt Flex, the first model of its kind in the UK, drivers outside London can set their own fares, negotiate directly with passengers, and operate on a transparent, flat commission with no hidden fees. Drivers are already earning up to 7% more per trip on average, while receiving 24% more orders per hour.”

In response to safety concerns, Bolt added: “The safety of drivers is our top priority. We have committed €100 million globally to strengthen safety across our platform, contributing to a 14% reduction in safety-related incidents year over year.

“Drivers are provided with passenger ratings and ride history before pickup, can share live trip details with trusted contacts, and have access to 24/7 in-app and phone support. Our Emergency Assist button connects directly to emergency services and alerts Bolt’s 24/7 safety team, and our trip monitoring technology flags unexpected or prolonged stops. We also offer one of the sector’s most affordable CCTV schemes for drivers.

“Drivers on the Bolt platform operate as independent partners, and access is conditional on compliance with our safety and community standards. Accounts are only ever deactivated following a full investigation, with a clear review process. We will continue working with drivers to raise standards across the sector.”

The Mirror contacted Addison Lee for comment.

Stylish lakeside huts in Somerset

Six vintage-style “luxury huts” spaced out around a lake make up The Shepherds Hut Retreat in south Somerset. They have modern kitchens and bathrooms, private areas with hot tubs, and fancy features such as telescopes, gin bars, pizza ovens, fire pits and hammocks. There is also a woodland sauna on site. The newest hut, 1898, is the grandest, and is inspired by the Pig hotels. It is a mile’s walk to the Lord Poulett Arms, a thatched 17th-century pub in the village of Hinton St George, and half an hour’s drive to the beaches of the Jurassic Coast in east Devon and Dorset.
From £169, coolstays.com

A Jacobean manor in Kent

Boys Hall, a gorgeous Jacobean manor house near Ashford, is now a restaurant with rooms. The pub area has comfy chairs and a wood burner; lounges with inglenook fireplaces, sofas and books; there’s more than a hectare (2½ acres) of grounds, including a rose garden. The restaurant is a light, oak-framed space serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, including a weekly changing set menu of Kentish produce (three courses for £30; perhaps venison terrine, braised beef cheek stew and winter berry trifle). The nine rooms feature original stone mullion windows, oak panels and beams, plus rolltop baths and four-poster beds.
From £220 B&B, boys-hall.com

A fairytale farm cottage in the Malvern Hills

Wishbone is a 16th-century, fairytale cottage hidden away on an ancient fruit farm. The stone and timber barn is half-covered by foliage on the outside, but the inside has been beautifully restored and converted. There is a vaulted ceiling above the open-plan kitchen, dining and living areas, a bedroom with a king-size bed and an en suite shower room. Original wattle and daub panels, brick floors and beams add to the charm, and barn doors open on to the patio. Beyond the orchard in front of the cottage are fields with oak trees and a lake.
From £850 for two nights, uniquehomestays.com

A thatched pub in Bedfordshire