travel

A PRETTY English seaside town could soon get a massive upgrade.

Gorleston in Norfolk is home to Gorleston-on-Sea Beach which was recently named one of Europe’s best beaches in Tripadvisor’s Travellers‘ Choice Awards.

And now the seaside destination could be getting even better with a new waterfront attraction.

The Ocean Room used to be a thriving nightclub with bands like Blur and Pink Floyd performing there.

Now, the council has sold the building for £500,000 with future plans looking to replace the building with a soft play area, indoor games space, a coffee shop and a wellness centre with a spa.

The surrounding area would be redeveloped too with connections to the nearby Gorleston Pavilion Theatre and the bandstand.

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If The Ocean Room was to be saved, the local council has estimated it would cost £1million to repair the building.

According to the BBC, the developer said: “The Ocean Room holds a special place in the hearts of many and the team recognises the building’s removal will be a source of genuine disappointment for the community.

“However, it should be noted that the council itself identified significant structural concerns with the building before the site was sold.”

While formal plans have not been submitted to the council yet, the round, Art Deco building could be facing its last days.

The Ocean Room originally opened back in 1939 and used to host dinner dances, boxing events, nightclub evenings and concerts.

It then closed in 2024 after its tenants went into administration and the building has remained empty since.

A BEAUTIFUL island off the coast of Dorset is closing to the public soon and you won’t be able to visit again until next spring.

Brownsea Island was said to have inspired Enid Blyton when writing her Famous Five novels.

Owned by the National Trust, the car-free island opens to the public in the summer months with direct boats from Poole Harbour.

These run every 30 minutes, costing around £15.

But the island closes to the public on November 1, and won’t reopen to the public until mid-March 2027.

You will also need to pay to visit the island which is an additional £12 although, National Trust members go free.

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But the island is popular with wildlife lovers, with exotic birds, deer and free roaming peacocks.

It has a huge red squirrel population too, with around 250, best spotted in the morning.

The 16th century Brownsea Castle, built by Henry VIII, is the main building on the island, but you won’t be able to stay there as it is sadly privately owned.

Instead there is the Brownsea Island Campsite, with 40 pitches in the summer, or a number of lodges sleeping from 2 to 12 people.

There is an adventure playground for kids, with everything from den building to obstacles.

You’ll have to leave the dogs at home sadly, as only assistance pets are allowed.

Daily guided tours take place too twice a day.

Otherwise you can fill your stomach at the Vilano Cafe which has snacks, drinks and a snack van in the summer.

Looking for your next coastal getaway? We have teamed up with family-owned coach holiday specialist Daish’s Holidays to give two lucky readers the chance to win a £400 voucher towards a UK break

Looking for a charming seaside break? Daish’s Holidays, a UK based family-owned coach holiday specialist, is giving two lucky readers the chance to win a £400 voucher to spend on a UK getaway at one of its 11 hotels.

Picture days spent strolling along scenic coastlines, exploring picturesque seaside towns and villages, unwinding in welcoming accommodation, and enjoying good food and live entertainment. It’s a perfect recipe for a relaxing coastal getaway with Daish’s.

Each winner will enjoy a half-board, four-night stay at one of 11 charming Daish’s hotels across Britain’s favourite seaside destinations:

• Newquay: Barrowfield Hotel
• Bournemouth: Bournemouth Sands Hotel
• Isle of Wight: Daish’s Hotel
• Torquay: Devonshire Hotel | Abbey Lawn Hotel
• Scarborough: Esplanade Hotel
• Weymouth: Hotel Prince Regent | The Russell Hotel
• Eastbourne: Imperial Hotel
• Weston-Super-Mare: Sandringham Hotel
• Llandudno: Somerset Hotel

Travel by coach from one of Daish’s Holidays’ many pick-up points across England, from West Yorkshire to Cornwall, or make your own way and enjoy a self-drive break.

Whether you’re looking for fresh sea air, sightseeing or simply a chance to relax and unwind, a Daish’s Holidays break could be the perfect seaside escape.

To be in with a chance of winning, simply fill in the form below. If you can’t see the form, click here.

For full details and to explore all destinations, visit www.daishs.com.

This competition closes on the 8th November.

Brits are continuing to face delays due to the EES system, and queues of five hours were reported just last week at a popular city break destination for those visiting from outside the EU

European Entry/Exit System (EES) continues for Brits with a major European airport confirming that non-EU visitors faced five hour queues last week.

The Brussels Times reports that non-European travellers, including Brits and Americans, were forced to go through staffed control posts leading the the huge queues. In a statement to the Belgian news outlet, the airport confirmed that additional police officers are being trained for the border control posts and they were seeking “structural solutions”.

When contacted for comment, a spokesperson from Brussels Airport said: “Since the introduction of the European Entry/Exit System (EES), border checks for travellers covered by this system have taken longer, as is the case at many other airports. In addition, passengers from certain non-EU countries can no longer use the e-gates. As a result, more passengers need to go through staffed border control points, which has increased waiting times.”

They added: “All parties involved continue to work together on long-term solutions.” The airport spokesperson confirmed the airport had added two extra border control booths for the Federal Police at departures, in addition to two booths that were added at arrivals before the introduction of EES.

They went on to say: “The Federal Police also increased staffing levels on a permanent basis during the summer, and further reinforcements have been planned. More police officers are also being trained to ensure sufficient staffing at border control points, and additional infrastructure needs are being assessed.

“In addition, 60 EES pre-registration kiosks have been installed. These allow non-EU travellers to submit some of their information in advance. The connection between the e-gates and the pre-registration kiosks is still being tested so that, in the future, passengers from certain non-EU countries may be able to use the e-gates again.”

EES launched nearly a year ago, on October 12 2025, before officially becoming operational on April 10 2026. However, over the summer months holidaymakers have reported a myriad of issues with the system.

But no sooner was it launched than countries started to pause, or even shelve the scheme, due to the huge queues snaking through airports. Nine countries have put full EES implementation on hold, despite the fact that the EU said there would be no extension to the deadline. Holiday hotspots such as Greece briefly made an exemption for British holidaymakers over the summer, which has now been reversed, putting them back in the queue.

Over on Reddit, a poster took to the R/Belgium sub with a post titled: “Brussels airport queues should be a national scandal”, asking: “Why are they so bad? EES isn’t new anymore. They hardly have anyone checking passports. Are people in Belgium aware that queuing for 1hr + isn’t normal?”

One poster replied: “If you’ve got a kid under 12 you have to go through a manual check and can’t use the kiosks, and while usually shorter than the all passports line, it can sometimes be long as well. We waited 20-30 minutes last Friday mid morning. The all passport line was all the way along the back of the security screening area. I don’t remember the last time I’ve seen more than 3 agents working and an all passport line shorter that didn’t back up into the arrivals corridor. “

Reviews of the airport on Google tell the same story. One visitor said: “The passport control situation at Brussels Airport is completely unacceptable. Every time I arrive and have to use the “All Nationals” queue, I face the same problem: an enormous line and an extremely long wait, sometimes lasting hours.”

They added: “This is an international airport and one of the main gateways to the capital of Europe. Yet the passport control capacity seems completely inadequate for the number of arriving passengers. Hundreds of people are forced to stand in line after long flights because there are simply not enough control points operating to process passengers within a reasonable time.”

Have a story you want to share? Email us at webtravel@reachplc.com

IF you want beautifully hot winters without the long, stopover flights, then an island is about to be on your list.

The island of Mauritius, just off the coast of Madagascar in East Africa, has seen a drop in passengers in recent years.

According to Travel Gossip, visitor numbers fell by 11 per cent, linked to the Middle East conflict due to the majority of flights operating via Dubai.

However, it also rose slightly back in August, with last-minute bookings to the island.

Airline Air Mauritius – who currently operates flights from London Gatwick – could add even more from the UK.

Dinesh Burrenchobay, Chairman of the Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority, said: “Air Mauritius has committed to increase its frequency back to five flights a week, maybe even six or seven.

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“It didn’t commit to a timeline, but I think we will get extra flights from the UK by next summer.”

The UK is one of the island’s biggest markets, with as many 150,000 visiting a year.

Air Mauritius UK Country Sales Manager Allan Owen added: “We are looking at the tourist board to increase knowledge of Mauritius and what it has to offer and we will increase capacity in line with rising demand.” 

Direct flights from the UK to Mauritius take just under 12 hours.

However, the time difference can be as little as 3-4 hours, so jet lag is minimal.

Not just that, but January is one of its hottest months with highs of 30C, so its the ideal escape from the cold UK.

When it comes to visiting the island, the north is popular with fly-and-floppers with most resorts lining the beaches.

Otherwise the south of the island is more for the nature fans, with waterfalls and tropical jungles.

One of it’s most famous beaches is Le Morne Beach, often named one of the best in the world.

We’ve found some very cheap holiday deals – local B&B breaks start from £739pp (with flights and seven nights) while beachside resorts start from £999pp on loveholidays.

A STRICT beach rule is set to be lifted today after being enforced for more than five months.

Hundreds of seaside locations across the UK will now be open to all visitors.

Dog walkers will be able to walk their pets on Britain’s beaches once more, as the seasonal ban is lifted today (October 1).

More than 600 coastal areas across the UK will now welcome a host of four-legged friends, with dogs able to visit the sites any time of the day.

The rule typically comes into force from May until the end of September, which sees dogs banned from beaches entirely or restricted to certain areas.

Other councils place timed entry restrictions, where pups are not allowed at the seaside during the busiest periods – usually from 10am to 6pm.

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The rules come under Public Spaces Protection Orders (PSPOs), which can result in fixed penalties when breached.

In this case, first-time offenders may be given a penalty of £100, with a maximum fine of £500.

However, even with the ban lifted, some councils still require dogs to be on leads while walking on footpaths, promenades, piers and zig zags.

The seasonal ban comes every year with the aim of keeping beaches clean and safe during the busier summer months, especially when children may be visiting the coast.

Foul left behind by pets can also act as a major health hazard – even if the majority of dog owners are responsible enough to pick it up.

The rules do not apply to guide dogs, who are allowed on beaches at all times while working and in a harness.

A GREAT work bag is hard to find, so when one comes along at half the RRP, well, that’s tough to resist.

Antler’s Icon Tote Bag in a beige sand hue has dropped from £120 to £60, bagging shoppers a tidy £60.

Icon Tote Bag, £60 (was £120), from Antler

Shoppers have given the tote a five-star rating, describing it as being ‘very practical’ for travelling as a carry-on, but also for getaways or office days, with one noting: “This is the perfect work bag that I have been searching long and high for.

“It’s roomy enough to hold my laptop and headset, with a coffee and water bottle, notebook and possibly more.”

A second added: “Perfect for both work and social outings, 100% recommend.”

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It comes in khaki and black for £72, and is made from 100% recycled, water-resistant fabric and features a full zip-top closure, so your precious belongings are protected whatever the weather.

It can fit laptops up to 16-inches, and there are eight internal slip pockets to keep everything in place.

And that’s not all: the tote features a water bottle holder too, while the external front pocket offers easy access for essentials.

Antler has also slashed the price of the Expandable Cabin Suitcase (now £105, down from £175) and the Medium Suitcase (now £164.50, down from £235.00), just in time for the October half term for those planning a family trip.

Icon Tote Bag, £60 (was £120), from Antler

Elsewhere, the Bubble 20L Puffy 15.6″ Laptop Work Tote from Bagsmart is currently on offer at £32.19, and comes in 12 different colours.

It boasts a 4.9 rating based on 360 reviews: “It’s so spacious with lots of compartments that makes it perfect for travelling or if you have a busy job.”

There’s also the Typo Mode Tote from Cotton On, available in strawberry milk and cloud, which has been reduced from £30 to £15.

If you’re going away, this top-rated electric toothbrush is £185 off at Boots and comes with a travel case — the high street retailer has also launched a Fragrance Advent Calendar with several minis, perfect for slipping into your new tote bag.

PAULTONS Park was recently named the best theme park in the country and it’s about to get even better.

The much-loved theme park in Hampshire has revealed plans for a huge new holiday village which will be the first on-site accommodation for guests.

The new holiday village will have a Scandinavian theme with 129 lodges, cabins and suites, ranging from two to four bedrooms.

The welcome building would act as a “gateway” to the village, with a bag drop-off area and a second entrance directly to the theme park.

A 400sqm restaurant will be part of the village, as well as a small supermarket-style shop.

The new village will also have an entertainment room, as well as a games room for indoor activities.

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James Mancey, deputy managing director at Paultons Park, said: “Our vision is to deliver 129 units, designed to comfortably accommodate just under 600 guests at full capacity, 100 guests fewer than previously outlined.

“We anticipate it will be several years before our vision for on-site accommodation is brought to fruition; however, we are committed to continually reinvesting in our attraction, providing a world-class experience for our guests, and planning for the long-term.”

It isn’t the only addition Paultons Park is planning either.

Set to open in 2027 is a new water coaster called Serpent’s Curse, with twists, a hill and a final lake plunge.

Overall, the water coaster will be 471-metres long and reach speeds of up to 44mph.

Talking about the new ride, Paultons has said it will be one of the ‘biggest rides ever built’ at the park.

The theme park was also recently named the Theme Park of the Year at the UK Theme Park Awards.

The park is home to more than 70 rides and attractions, including the recently opened Valgard: Realm of the Vikings, with Paultons Park’s first inverting coaster, Drakon.

What is a sundae? Ice cream, of course, but what else? As the Food team compiled our favorite decked-out frozen desserts around the city, we couldn’t seem to reach a consensus.

It should have syrup or sauce, fruit and some sort of crunchy topping, I declared with unearned authority. Deputy Food editor Betty Hallock pointed out the iconic McDonald’s sundae with just vanilla soft serve and rich chocolate fudge. Another colleague mentioned layered parfaits while others hailed the banana split as a worthwhile variant that includes all the named elements.

We decided to take a broad definition to the dessert that was first created at a soda fountain in Two Rivers, Wis., in the late 19th century. (Hot fudge was invented in 1906 by L.A. candymaker Clarence Clifton Brown, whose son opened legendary ice cream parlor C.C. Brown’s in Hollywood.)

You can opt for classic or over-the-top versions at a carhop diner in Burbank or a Route 66 soda fountain, or build the sundae of your dreams at a French-Californian bistro or an open-air Italian restaurant with a roving gelato cart. There are plenty of creative takes that pull inspiration from many cuisines, like a Thai gelato maker in Torrance and an Ethiopian restaurant in Eagle Rock serving a brûléed banana split with Ethiopian coffee-infused chocolate sauce.

Here are 20 of our favorite sundaes and banana splits around Los Angeles. — Danielle Dorsey

Halloween season is arguably the most festive time of year in Los Angeles. Is it any wonder that a city that favors make-believe would take to a holiday that inspires elaborate set dressings and creative costumes, the latter a chance to take on a role other than ourselves?

Likely not, and whether you lean spooky or playful, the days and weeks leading up to Oct. 31 are filled with events, often with no costume necessary. Consider October an excuse to throw a massive, fall-related bash.

This season there are returning staples, such as “Carved” at Descanso Gardens and Universal Studios Hollywood’s Halloween Horror Nights, but also opportunities to explore Halloween’s campier side. Our penchant for the theatrical is well represented, and even newer Los Angeles institutions such as the Academy Museum are getting in on the autumnal fun.

Whether you’re seeking an event to charm or to inspire frights, there’s plenty our region has to offer.

A VITAL ferry route to France is being axed three weeks earlier than planned after operating for over 40 years.

Customers have been told they will receive a full refund or alternative travel routes following the shock announcement.

Brittany Ferries has confirmed that the Poole to Cherbourg route will close three weeks earlier than planned.

The last crossing was originally set to take place at the end of the month.

All passengers who were set to be travelling in the latter half of the month will receive a full refund or be provided with alternative travel on Portsmouth routes.

The early axing of the Poole-to-Cherbourg route has occurred for two reasons.

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Firstly, Brittany Ferries is selling the vessel which currently operates on the Rosslare/Cherbourg route – Cotentin.

To prepare, the vessel must be withdrawn from the service by mid-October.

Secondly, a back-up vessel, the Commodore Clipper, suffered gearbox failure earlier this month rendering the ferry out of action pending remedial work.

The gearbox issue forced the early closure of the Portsmouth-Le Havre route, but has now meant the company has needed to move Barfleur onto a new route and finish Poole-Cherbourg sailings earlier than planned.

Barfleur, the vessel which has served the crossing since 1992, is set to be moved to the Rosslare/Cherbourg route from October 12.

CEO of Brittany Ferries, Christophe Mathieu, said: “The reality is that, post-Brexit, Rosslare/Cherbourg has become a strategically significant route for Brittany Ferries, carrying nearly 25 percent of all freight traffic so we must prioritise.

“I know there will be disappointment with this operational change, and I apologise to all those travelling from Poole in the latter half of October.

“We shall of course refund tickets or provide alternative travel on routes out of Portsmouth.

“It has been a privilege to serve the Poole-Cherbourg route since 1986.”

The company revealed it would be shutting down the 40-year route owing to growing financial pressures, particularly affected by the pandemic, the EU’s Emissions Trading System and competition on the Eastern Channel.

The crossing closure is forecast to affect around 20 jobs and the decision forms part of a wider restructuring by Brittany Ferries.

Brittany Ferries has confirmed that passengers will still be able to head out to France from Poole, instead via the company’s seasonal service to St Malo.

Customers can also cross the Channel via routes from Portsmouth and Plymouth to Caen, Cherbourg, St Malo and Roscoff.

A new high-speed crossing between Poole, Guernsey and St Malo is set to be debuted in 2027.

The MS Barfleur first began her voyages between Dorset and France in 1992 and was the shortest journey over the Channel, taking just four hours and 15 minutes.

The crossing garnered a huge amount of success, leading to a £6million refurbishment of the ferry terminal in the 1990s.

The route has faced difficulties more recently, seeing a temporary closure in 2010 following a decrease in ticket sales – however it was reopened in 2013.

EASYJET is set to strike tomorrow at several major airports in a popular European country.

EasyJet flight crew will walk out of airports across Portugal from tomorrow, with flights expected to be cancelled.

The airports include Lisbon, Porto and Faro.

The strike will run from October 2 to 6 and has been called by the SNPVAC union, which the airline’s cabin crew in Portugal belongs to.

Overall, it is estimated that the strike over the coming days could ground around 500 flights which includes 35 to and from the UK.

This includes two return flights and one outbound flight from London Southend Airport.

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EasyJet operates from a number of UK airports including Birmingham, Bristol, Manchester, Newcastle, London Gatwick and London Luton.

The strike comes due to an ongoing dispute with the airline about pay, rostering and working conditions for cabin crew in Portugal.

Any travellers due to fly to or from Portugal during the strike dates are being advised to check their easyJet app or emails for updates.

Meanwhile, the Portuguese government has promised that there will be a minimum of one Lisbon to London and then London to Lisbon flight per day during the strike.

On the other hand, it appears that no UK flights to or from Faro or Porto remain protected.

The SNPVAC union has announced further walkouts later on in the year in December between 19–23.

A spokesperson for easyJet told Sun Travel: “We are extremely disappointed that the union representing our Portugal-based cabin crew has announced an industrial action from 2 to 6 October, despite our willingness to continue a constructive dialogue and reach an agreement to meet our employees’ requests and protect the sustainability of easyJet business in Portugal.

“We are sorry for the impact the unnecessary action will have on our customers and we are doing all we can to minimise disruption, including actioning some cancellations in advance to allow our customers to rearrange their travel plans.

“Customers whose flights are cancelled have been informed directly and offered options including a free transfer or a refund.

“We advise customers travelling to or from Portugal between 2 and 6 October to check the status of their flight via our Flight Tracker.”

One shop worker called it ‘the friendliest town in England’

One charming UK seaside town is famous for its oysters, bustling harbour and colourful collection of independent shops. Oysters have long been at the heart of Whitstable’s identity, with the town’s seafood heritage dating back centuries.

Today, its working harbour remains one of the main attractions, with fishing boats, seafood stalls, a market and waterside places to eat. But there’s much more to Whitstable than its famous seafood.

The town is a haven for independent shopping, with Harbour Street, the High Street and the surrounding streets lined with quirky boutiques, vintage stores, galleries, delis, bookshops and homeware shops.

Only a handful of national chains remain.

Just over an hour from London by train, the town has become a popular weekend retreat for city dwellers, reports the Express.

Visitors can spend the day browsing independent businesses before grabbing some fresh seafood and taking a stroll along the coast.

Wander down Harbour Street and the High Street, and you’ll encounter shopfronts brimming with character. Here, you can uncover a variety of distinctive treasures like the stunning Pearl Shop selling contemporary pearl jewellery and marine object d’arts, to George’s Whitstable, a fixture of the high street for 50 years and a true Aladdin’s Cave of treasures

You’ll also find award-winning British artisan cheeses at The Cheese Box, unique gifts at Buttercup Independent Toy Shop, a beautiful selection of books at Harbour Books, Whitstable’s beloved independent bookstore, and sweet treats at HoneyKanes Bright & Beautiful Shop, all without stepping inside a single chain store. That reputation has only strengthened in recent years.

Whitstable flourishes on independence, creativity and community spirit.

This sentiment is echoed by Stewart McArthur, from Brisbane, Australia, who is on a gap year and working at The Wit! of Whitstable, a vibrant Harbour Street gift shop that recently moved up from a small harbour stall to a prime High Street location.

He said: “You can wander up and down the street and see anything you need – there are so many different style stores that you don’t really need Amazon here.

“This is quite a busy little town. It just seems to get a lot of people coming through, which helps the independent businesses.”

Tourists, he added, are absolutely crucial. “They really support a lot of the local businesses when they come through. It gets busy, but I wouldn’t say overwhelmed,” he said.

For Stewart, what sets Whitstable apart is its sense of community. “It’s the friendliest town in England, it’s just a nice, chill, relaxed place. It’s nice to have a conversation with anyone who comes by.”

That sense of community was perhaps best illustrated by the tale of Revival Food & Mood, a social enterprise café and wellbeing hub that lost its premises during the 2021 lockdown.

Rather than disappearing, it was rescued by a grassroots campaign championed by residents with backing ranging from local groups to household names like Suggs from Madness and celebrated potter Keith Brymer Jones.

Thanks to the town’s resolve, Revival ultimately secured funding through the government’s Community Ownership Fund and reopened in a restored heritage building on the High Street. It now operates not only as a café but also as a venue for music, social gatherings, and mental health support.

Vanessa Brolly, the front-of-house manager at Revival Food & Mood told the Express: “There was a lot of support from the community about making sure that they found a new home.”

The wellbeing hub café is supported by East Kent and Bexley Mind, and has been in Whitstable for roughly eight years, though only two at its current site, and provides a variety of dishes, drinks, and social events such as “Chatty Tuesday” and a regular “Sound Social” in partnership with a neighbouring record shop.

Ms Brolly said: “There’s definitely a very close-knit community feel here. For example, we’ve got the social sounds event on tonight and that’s being run by the record shop, which is about two doors down and they’ll come in and play the records. Everyone’s always looking to collaborate, which is nice.”

Step inside and you’re welcomed by quirky décor designed to brighten the spirits, featuring an indoor garden complete with a water fountain, snug booth seating, and a 1970s-inspired relaxation space kitted out with sofas, vinyl decks, lamps, and a mirror ball.

Ms Brolly noted that national chains such as Costa and Prezzo have shut their doors, yet believes this speaks to the strength of independent businesses rather than any ill-feeling towards big brands.

“If I were visiting, I wouldn’t go to Costa,” she said, emphasising that visitors come to Whitstable in search of unique, independent spots.”

She went on to say that funding initiatives, such as Canterbury Council’s levelling-up programme, could also help keep Whitstable’s flourishing independent scene alive, but ultimately, what makes the town truly special to her is straightforward. “Everyone supports each other.”

For her, the best thing about working at Revival is “being involved in the community and listening to good music.”

Mrs Sally Miller, owner of Anchors Aweigh Vintage, has run her seaside vintage shop for 13 years.

Having lived in neighbouring Tankerton for over 17 years, she’s witnessed first-hand how the high street has changed over time. Step inside and it’s impossible not to be captivated by its treasure trove of curiosities — a shop overflowing with history, character and one-of-a-kind finds that each seem to have a story of their own.

Mrs Miller told the Express: “You get more versatility now than you did. A lot of the locals moan about the idea that it’s all down to people from London. Actually, we probably have more people from Sheffield than from London, but that doesn’t occur to them. The world is a transient place now, isn’t it?”

“Some of the locals are like, ‘all these people!’ But you live in a nice place – people aren’t going to avoid it. When you talk about DFLs [Down From Londoners], it doesn’t really matter. It’s a transient place, a tourist destination. And because we do live in a nice place, people come. The more the merrier!”

Yet for Mrs Miller, the backbone of Whitstable’s businesses remains its local community: “We get a lot of repeat customers, a lot of local shoppers as well. They like popping in for buttons and little bits.”

What keeps independent shops thriving and sets Whitstable apart, she believes, is a winning combination of attentive service and a warm, welcoming atmosphere that fosters genuine conversation and connection with every customer who walks through the door.

“People like to talk, they like to stop. We give them the time of day – I’m sure we probably keep people in here longer than they should be,” she laughed.

“It’s the service. People still appreciate the service.”

That sense of camaraderie runs deep — if she doesn’t have something in stock, Ms Miller is more than happy to point customers in the direction of a fellow trader, as they all get along and know one another well.

She added: “We have a strong shop local culture. We’re really lucky. People here talk to you.”

Pearl Shop owner, jeweller and pearl specialist Bibi Southwell also revealed how the town’s heritage and community spirit shaped her business: “We first opened as a pop-up in August 2024, and the response was incredible – both locals and visitors really embraced us. That encouraged us to open permanently just a couple of months later in October. Whitstable’s longstanding history with oysters made The Pearl Shop feel like a natural addition to the town. With its coastal charm, creativity, and independent spirit, it was the perfect fit.

“My favourite thing is being able to be creative every day and sharing that with the community. There’s such warmth here, and we’re surrounded by other independent shopkeepers who all support each other.

“Whitstable draws people from all over thanks to its seaside character, oysters, and thriving independent scene. We see loyal locals who come back regularly as well as visitors who discover us while exploring the high street and both are equally important to us.”

She added: “Whitstable has an authenticity that you don’t find everywhere. The town celebrates creativity, uniqueness, and quality over mass-produced sameness. Visitors come here expecting to find something they won’t see on every other high street, and that gives independents like us the space to really thrive.”

On the subject of the recent closures of chains such as Costa, Ms Southwell said it underlines how people in Whitstable actively seek out independent businesses. Echoing views shared by others including Ms Brolly, she explains that visitors arrive wanting to soak up the distinctive character of the town, rather than the familiar chains they can find anywhere else.

“It shows that people in Whitstable actively choose independents. When you visit, you want to experience the character of the town, not the same coffee chain you’d find anywhere else. I think Whitstable is proving that high streets can survive, and even flourish, when they’re built around small, passionate businesses instead of big brands.”

While many traders are celebrating Whitstable’s flourishing independent scene, not everybody is persuaded it can last. One shop owner, speaking on condition of anonymity, offered a sobering reminder of the very real pressures bearing down on the town’s small businesses.

“They’ve let the harbour be rented out to everything you can imagine that we don’t need in a small seaside town, instead of seafood, for people to make money instead of seafood, which is what we actually need there,” they said. “I don’t want another glossy piece by someone from London saying this is the ‘new Camden’. That’s five years behind the times and it doesn’t help us. Until councils stop raiding towns that were built by small family businesses, we’re all going to die. The local councils couldn’t organise a p***-up in a brewery.”

The shopkeeper’s exasperation is plain to see: “Tourists come here expecting seafood, and instead they find crochet cushions and Thai curry. That’s not what this harbour was built for.”

They went on to say that the town’s weekend atmosphere has been put under strain: “Our weekends are dominated by traffic jams and alcohol. Families leave early, children can’t run around, and the council won’t close the smallest, most dangerous roads for safety. This place risks turning into a tourist attraction, rather than a real working town with shops and families.”

Despite this, the shopkeeper conceded that Whitstable retains its undeniable appeal. “The town will always be amazing – but there’s something not quite right about what goes on behind the scenes when small coastal towns are made popular.”

A spokesperson from Canterbury City Council told the Express: “We’re very pleased to hear such positivity about Whitstable, which only goes to reinforce our view that it’s one of the UK’s best seaside towns – a fantastic place to live and work in, and also wonderful for a visit or extended stay.

“Clearly it’s never possible to please everybody, but given the fact the negative comments have been made anonymously, it makes you wonder if the individual has been turned down for trading opportunities at the harbour and their views have been affected as a result.

“The criticism is also incorrect, because there is seafood readily available at the harbour. The harbour is visited by thousands and thousands of people each year and our commercial units along the south quay are very popular with local residents and visitors alike.

“The hugely popular Whitstable Rocks Oyster Festival takes place each September – this year from 12 to 14 September, see whitstablerocksoysterfestival.com – which brings lots of people in and is also run by a private business.

“At its heart, Whitstable remains a fishing town with an active harbour and plenty of businesses selling seafood. Shops selling a whole mix of other goods complement this offer, which leads to a great balance of traders overall.

“But don’t take our word for it – Daily Express readers should come and experience Whitstable for themselves!”.

FORGET the faff of going abroad – you can bag yourself an action-packed all inclusive holiday here in the UK.

Across the UK are 45 Parkdean Resorts sites that offer an all inclusive package, bundling in three sit-down hot meals a day, unlimited soft and hot drinks and more.

The offer is available across some of Parkdean’s most popular sites, such as Camber Sands, Highfield Grange (which has recently had a multi-million pound investment) and Trecco Bay, one of Europe’s largest holiday parks.

And with food and drink taken care of, there’s no need to do a big food shop for the caravan, or worry about how much you’ll spend on food and drink on-site.

Instead, you can sit down in a warm restaurant to enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner delivered straight to your table – no fuss, no washing up.

For breakfast, kids and grown-ups alike can enjoy a proper cooked breakfast with eggs, toast, bacon, sausage and beans.

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As for lunch and dinner, adult mains include classics like spaghetti bolognese, fish and chips, chicken tikka masala and a bacon and cheese burger.

The kids menu also offers crowd-pleasers like chicken burgers, margherita pizzas and macaroni cheese. Plus you can wash it all down with some soft drinks, which are included too.

Alcohol isn’t included in the all-inclusive packages, but the all inclusive breaks do include unlimited Costa Coffee, so you can grab yourself a warming cappuccino or a cosy hot chocolate on your autumn or winter family break.

All inclusive add-ons start from £80 per adult and £30 per child under 12 which, for a four night break, works out to £20 a night for adults and £7.50 for kids.

When you’re not enjoying all the free food and drink, there’s plenty of activities for the family to get stuck into.

The Newquay holiday park has a high ropes course, hoverboards, and even a Bear Grylls Survival Academy where kids can learn to survive in the wild.

Over at Naze Marine holiday park, kids can bounce around on bungee trampolines or practice their aim at archery.

The holiday parks are also well-known for their amazing entertainment, with a huge variety of evening shows.

The Holiday Happy Gameshow is a hilarious showdown packed with challenges and prizes, while Talent Nation is an incredible talent show with a showstopper final at the end of the year judged by celebrities.

As for kids shows, Milkshake! Mornings are a hit with little ones for their singing, dancing and storytelling, while the Get Up & Glow has a classic ‘school disco’ type feel plus glow in the dark decorations.

The all inclusive offering is valid for four night breaks with Monday arrivals, excluding the school holidays.

However 14 of the parks are offering three-night weekend options, too. Click here to browse which ones.

There are plenty of deals on for family breaks across the resorts, with a current offer where you can save up to £120 off autumn breaks.

There are last-minute, midweek and dog-friendly break options all from £99.

You can bag a four-night stay in a Bronze caravan at Crantock Beach, Lizard Point, Holywell Bay and Sea Acres all from £99.

If you fill up a caravan sleeping six, that works out to £4.13pp per night!

And if you add on the all inclusive package, that works out to £24.13 per night for adults and £11.63 per night for kids for an all-inclusive UK holiday.

There are plenty of other holiday deals for families too, such as the Tots Break packages.

You can bag a four night Tots Break across a range of parks for £99, working out to £6.19pp per night if you’re a family of four.

And on a Tots Break, kids eat completely free as part of the package, saving you up to £70 extra.

Under-fives are completely spoiled for choice on these breaks with free soft play, messy play, and lively music sessions.

They can also tackle the Tots Adventure Playground, or test out new skills together with mini fencing, archery, and even ‘Mini Olympics‘.

Prices correct at the time of publication.

In most cases the amount received is £350 per passenger

Passengers who have travelled with Ryanair, easyJet, Jet2 and other carriers should check whether they are owed payouts worth hundreds of pounds. A single quick check could land you around £350 per person.

Jetting off on holiday is an exhilarating experience, but it’s not without its headaches. From packing and checking in to rounding up everyone’s passports, there’s no shortage of tasks to tick off. And the last thing you need is a delayed flight on top of all this.

Many flights suffer only minor delays, and pilots can often claw back some time once airborne. But if your flight is “significantly” delayed, you could be in line for compensation.

In a video on its website, the UK Civil Aviation Authority explains: “If you’re flying from a UK airport or coming back on a UK airline and are significantly delayed, your airline must look after you with food, drink, a way to communicate, such as access to a phone or email, and if you’re delayed overnight, a hotel and transport.

“This applies after two hours for short flights, three hours for medium distances, and four hours for long haul. If you can’t get help, remember to keep those receipts for any reasonable costs and claim them back later.

“If your flight arrives at the gate more than three hours late, you might get compensation from £220 for short flights up to £520 for long haul.”

Compensation is set at £220 per passenger for journeys up to 1,500km, and £350 per passenger for flights spanning 1,500-3,500km, when delays exceed three hours. For destinations beyond 3,500km, passengers receive £260 each for delays of 3-4 hours, rising to £520 per passenger if the hold-up stretches past four hours.

The majority of popular UK traveller routes on Ryanair, easyJet and Jet2 typically fall within the 1,500-3,500km bracket, meaning the £350 per passenger threshold applies. That said, these regulations don’t cover circumstances beyond the airline’s control, such as severe weather conditions.

A travel expert has issued a crucial warning about the four key checks holidaymakers should make before jetting off abroad, including during the upcoming October half-term

Jetting off abroad is always an exciting time, but it’s easy to get caught out at the airport by common passport mistakes. The passport’s expiry date is an obvious check, while the 10-year rule is equally crucial when travelling to the Schengen area.

However, holidaymakers must also be aware of blank pages in their passports and the overall condition of their travel document. Even the slightest defect in a passport can render it invalid, leaving the traveller unable to fly and missing their holiday altogether.

To help Brits feel prepared before jetting off abroad, particually ahead of the October half-term, a travel expert has issued a warning and highlighted the four key checks to make. It’ll take just a few minutes and could be the difference between soaking up the sun in Malta during that well-earned winter escape and being stuck indoors in the grizzly British weather, wishing you had just checked your passport sooner.

Four key passport checks

On what other crucial checks are required before jetting off abroad, Rhys Jones, travel insurance expert at Go Compare Travel, said: “It’s important to remember that passport rules are about more than expiry dates.” He advised: “Travellers should check whether their passport was issued within the accepted period for their destination, is valid for long enough after their trip, has enough blank pages where required, and is not too damaged to travel.

Brits travelling to countries in the Schengen area must make sure their passport was issued less than 10 years before the date they enter the country. They must also ensure that their passport is valid for at least three months after the day they plan to leave the country.

Passport damage

Inspecting for passport damage is an easy thing to forget to do, particularly by seasoned travellers, but it’s a crucial part of pre-holiday checks. Rhys warned: “A damaged passport can quickly become a much bigger problem than many travellers realise. Water damage is particularly risky because it can warp pages, blur personal details, affect stamps or visas, and make the passport harder to scan or verify. Even if it looks usable to you, airline staff or border officials may decide it is too damaged for travel.

“If you turn up at the airport with a passport that is visibly damaged, you could be refused boarding before you even reach border control. Airlines have to be confident that passengers will be accepted at their destination, so a passport with water stains, peeling laminate, torn pages, missing pages, unreadable details or a damaged chip can lead to serious disruption.”

He advised: “The key guidance is to check your passport well before departure, keep it dry and protected while travelling, and replace it if there is any doubt about whether it will be accepted.”

The expert added: “If you notice damage while you are still in the UK, the safest option is to replace the passport before you travel. But if you are already abroad and your passport is lost, stolen, damaged, full, recently expired or otherwise unusable, you may need to apply for an Emergency Travel Document (ETD). This is designed to help British nationals travel urgently from abroad when they cannot use their passport.

Can travel insurance help me?

It depends on what your policy says. Rhys said: “Travel insurance can sometimes help here, but it depends on the policy and the circumstances. Some policies include cover for lost or stolen passports abroad and may contribute towards the cost of an ETD, replacement documentation, or reasonable extra travel and accommodation costs if the issue disrupts the trip. However, cover limits, excesses and exclusions vary, and insurers will usually expect travellers to report the issue promptly, keep receipts, and take reasonable care of their documents. If your passport was lost because of your own negligence, it’s likely your insurer won’t pay out.”

For more information on passport rules to check, you can visit Go Compare’s guide on their website.

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

During a 24-hour visit, Bethany Gavaghan discovered the market town’s independent shops, cafes and winding old streets — and left wanting more

If you thought you had to travel hundreds of miles to cities such as Edinburgh for old town charm and a sense of being swept into a Harry Potter novel, think again — there are destinations far closer to home that are well worth a visit.

Reach’s Bethany Gavagha had never set foot in Shrewsbury in Shropshire and, despite having spotted some gorgeous photographs, she arrived with very little in the way of expectations. Writing for the Express, Bethany shared how she always preferred to keep an open mind when visiting somewhere new, and as she hadn’t done much reading or come across a great deal of content about it, she genuinely had no idea what to expect.

Shrewsbury was, however, previously crowned the town with the best high street in the UK by The Telegraph, which described it as a “beacon of light piercing the gloom”.

It noted that Shrewsbury boasted a healthy selection of quirky and independent businesses that give shoppers a “fine reason to escape the tyranny of Amazon”. Locals spoke with great pride about their town as a result.

Bethany shared: “I was there for almost exactly 24 hours, and I found out quickly that is the ideal sweet spot if you’re someone just passing through, as everything is conveniently located and easy to get to. “

Things to do in Shrewsbury

Shrewsbury is the kind of place where history is impossible to miss. The medieval market town sits within a loop of the River Severn, close to the Welsh border, with its winding streets, timber-framed buildings and hidden passageways giving the centre plenty of character.

The town’s location once made it strategically important, and Shrewsbury was first recorded in a charter in 901. Today, though, it’s the independent shops, cafés, markets and historic sights that make it such an appealing place to explore.

Shrewsbury has a particularly strong independent shopping scene. According to Visit Shropshire, independent retailers outnumber big chains by almost 50%, with boutiques and quirky shops tucked into the town’s medieval streets and narrow passages.

One of the biggest draws is Shrewsbury Market Hall, which has been voted Britain’s Favourite Market. The bustling hall is packed with food stalls, cafés, independent traders, arts and crafts and fresh produce, making it an easy place to spend far longer than planned.

There’s plenty to see between shopping stops, too.

Shrewsbury Castle is a Norman fortress sitting right beside the railway station, making it an easy addition to a wander around the town. For a completely different experience, The Quarry offers 29 acres of riverside parkland and nature reserve inside the loop of the Severn – a peaceful escape from the busy streets.

History buffs can visit Shrewsbury Abbey, founded in 1083 and made famous to many readers by Ellis Peters’ Brother Cadfael novels.

Then there are the medieval passages themselves. Narrow lanes and little cut-throughs lead off the main streets, making exploring Shrewsbury feel more like an adventure than a conventional shopping trip.

Bethany’s stay

Bethany stayed in a room that was somewhere between a hotel and an Airbnb, called Boutique Shrewsbury Rooms, tucked away in a peaceful corner of the town, just across the river and through a small park — just about manageable on foot from the train station if you’re lugging a heavy suitcase.

“I’d definitely recommend staying there if you enjoy a no-fuss approach to holidays, as you just let yourself in with a keypad and the room and the location were both gorgeous,” she wrote.

A coffee machine stocked with a variety of pods also earned a big thumbs-up from her.

Come morning, the first stop on Bethany’s agenda was a café boasting “with some of the friendliest staff”. The Shrewsbury Coffeehouse is warm and inviting, full of charm in its décor, with generous seating spread across two floors.

She opted for avocado on sourdough toast, which proved to be a perfect brunch choice — packed with flavour and finished with a scattering of chilli flakes for an added kick. Exactly what you need to set yourself up for a full day of sightseeing.

During her visit, the weather was far from kind. She said: “In fact, we actually received what I think might have been the biggest deluge of rain I’ve seen all year, but this led me to realise just how much you can still do indoors, which I normally find quite rare in older towns like this.”

Bethany kicked things off with a visit to the Shrewsbury Museum and Art Gallery, which offered a brilliant glimpse into the local area. She discovered that woolly mammoths once roamed the fields surrounding Shrewsbury — a fact Bethany found utterly captivating — and the vintage fashion collections were absolutely stunning to take in.

The town is a genuine must-visit for anyone who loves independent shops and cafés. There was even an outdoor food market offering everything from freshly baked goods to Indian cuisine.

“One place that caught my eye was the Old Market Hall cinema, which puts on everything from ballets to dramas and more,” Bethany said.

Noting the building looked “fascinating”, she added: “We didn’t manage to go in this time, but it’s firmly on my list for our next visit.”

In need of something sweet, her next port of call was a coffee shop called the Cat’s Pyjamas. It was a brilliantly quirky space — cocktails on the menu too — and a perfect haunt for indie and creative types. Bethany opted for their red velvet lamington, which was a solid 10/10.

“I would absolutely go back for more without any persuasion needed,” she said.

With a free afternoon to spare, Bethany loved wandering through the winding cobbled streets. “It was surprisingly calm for a Saturday, which only added to its charm. Maybe the weather played a part, but it definitely had that hidden gem feel compared to more hyped medieval towns like Wells, which have gone viral on social media.”

The birthplace of Charles Darwin, Shrewsbury is home to around 77,000 people and reportedly boasts more than 500 independent retailers and hospitality venues. That’s what “makes the town centre really stand out,” said Seb Slater, executive director at Shrewsbury BID.

Bethany said: “My favourite shop was a huge underground shop selling antique items, Shrewsbury Antiques Centre, which has been going for more than 30 years. I never buy anything from places like this but just walking around is an experience in itself.

With more than 50 individual traders, the range on offer is enormous.

Her final port of call was a pizza restaurant that she had strolled past earlier and earmarked as somewhere that looked well worth a visit. You can catch the mouth-watering aromas from several doors away, so it was an absolute no-brainer.

Dough and Oil has built its reputation on sourdough pizza, homemade sides and desserts, and boasts a fun-filled interior complete with a photobooth and mini football table. It ticked every single box.

She had said it before, but Bethany firmly believes the only true way to judge a pizza restaurant is to sample their margherita first — and she would give it 100% recommendation. With the visit drawing to a close, it was time to head back.

The train station was just a short walk downhill from there. She concluded: “All in all, it was a successful 24 hours, and definitely somewhere I’d like to learn more about and get to know again, hopefully with better weather next time.”

The travel expert highlighted one spot as a stunning and affordable autumn city break destination

For many people mapping out an autumn escape, short-haul European city breaks promising late-season sunshine tend to top the wishlist. But as one of Britain’s most respected travel journalists, Simon Calder, suggests a more affordable and “very exciting” destination.

During an appearance on Holly Rubenstein’s podcast ‘The Travel Diaries,’ Simon shone a spotlight on everything from ancient cities in Algeria to Cape Verde and the Azores. Another unexpected destination on his radar was Tbilisi, the capital of Georgia. Tbilisi, the capital of Georgia, is becoming an increasingly popular choice for a city break, offering a mix of historic sights, delicious food, traditional wine, famous thermal baths and relatively affordable prices.

Why visit Tbilisi?

Tbilisi’s historic centre is packed with colourful wooden balconies, winding streets and beautiful churches, alongside architecture reflecting Georgian, Persian, Russian and European influences.

The city takes its name from its natural hot springs, and the Abanotubani district is home to traditional bathhouses where visitors can enjoy the famous sulphur-rich waters.

One of the must-visits in the city is a ride on the cable car towards Narikala Fortress offers impressive views across Tbilisi and the Mtkvari River. From the fortress, you can also glimpse the iconic “Mother of Georgia” statue.

Simon said: “It used to be the case that you couldn’t fly from Tbilisi in Georgia from the UK. And suddenly, within a couple of days, British Airways and easyJet launched flights to Tbilisi.”

The travel guru continued: “And that’s a very exciting part of the world. Central Asia, Uzbekistan, is very much getting back to being more mainstream as well. So much exciting stuff to do,” reports the Express.

What’s Tbilisi like in autumn?

Autumn can be an attractive time to visit Tbilisi. September is typically warm, while October brings cooler temperatures but can still offer pleasant days for exploring the city. Early autumn can also feel considerably warmer than the UK, making it an appealing option for travellers looking for a break from cooler weather.

Tbilisi comes into its own during autumn for a whole host of reasons. While temperatures back home in the UK begin to plummet, Georgia’s capital basks in a pleasant climate, with average highs of 19.5C in October.

This mild, sunny weather is perfectly suited to exploring on foot, and with very little rainfall to contend with, you can safely leave the waterproofs behind. Tbilisi has earned a reputation as a remarkably budget-friendly travel destination, especially for visitors from the UK and Western Europe.

While prices have risen slightly in recent years owing to increasing popularity, the city still offers exceptional value for money.

In the Georgian capital, a pint of local beer in a bar or pub will set you back around £1.75, while meals out typically cost between £8 and £15.

Tbilisi’s charm lies in its fusion of old and new. The city’s ancient heritage is prominently displayed in the delightful Old Town (Dzveli Tbilisi), where a maze of cobbled streets winds past traditional houses with characteristic wooden balconies.

You can explore this historic quarter and uncover the domed roofs of the renowned Sulfur Baths in the Abanotubani district.

For a modern architectural wonder, walk across the Bridge of Peace, a contemporary pedestrian crossing that illuminates with thousands of LED lights after nightfall.

Georgian cuisine is a standout feature of any visit, and Tbilisi is the ideal spot to sample it. From the warming comfort of khinkali (spiced meat or cheese dumplings) to the cheesy delight of khachapuri (bread with cheese), the local food is a hearty and flavoursome experience.

Wash it all down with a glass of locally produced wine from one of the oldest winemaking regions on the planet.

Travel Local reveals that Georgia is widely regarded as the birthplace of wine. Archaeological findings of winemaking activity stretch back more than 8,000 years, making it the oldest continuous winemaking tradition in the world.

Remarkably, the very word “wine” is thought to have originated from the Georgian term for it, ‘ghvino’.

Tbilisi boasts a fantastic selection of wine bars and tasting rooms throughout the city, but the most celebrated vineyards and wineries can be found in the Kakheti wine region, considered the heart of Georgian winemaking.

It’s a well-loved and straightforward day trip from Tbilisi, typically requiring around a 1.5 to two-hour drive to reach the region’s principal towns such as Sighnaghi or Telavi.

October is also a particularly vibrant time to visit the city, as it plays host to the Tbilisoba festival, a grand celebration of the city’s rich history and harvest season. The streets burst into life with music, folk dancing and food stalls, offering an unforgettable insight into Georgian culture.

Many favour a circular walk, but you can give a linear one new shape with the addition of a novel form of transport. My wife Helen, our friend Tom Cox and I take the water taxi – a rigid inflatable boat (Rib) – from West Bay on Dorset’s coast to Lyme Regis, with a plan to walk back to our starting point.

The rain stops as the boat leaves the harbour, the views open along Chesil Beach to low-lying Portland to the east, and west to Lyme Regis; on the far horizon, we can see Start Point on the Devon coast. Our skipper, Nick, is highly knowledgable and takes time to stop and point out the history of the shoreline and the treacherous waters of Lyme Bay. The seabed is studded with wrecks – fishing boats and smugglers’ ships, but some are from the two world wars.

On New Year’s Day 1915, the battleship HMS Formidable was torpedoed by a German submarine. Of its crew of 750, no more than 200 survived. In the second world war, the Dorset coast was a huge mustering station for the allied forces in preparation for D-day. During Exercise Tiger, a large-scale rehearsal for the Normandy landings, hundreds of American service personnel were killed in an attack by German boats later known as the Battle of Lyme Bay – the wreck sites are now designated war graves.

At Lyme Regis, we disembark on to the Cobb, the harbour wall that snakes unsteadily into the bay and was made famous by Jane Austen, who had Louisa jump from it in Persuasion, and by John Fowles, who lived in Lyme. The movie adaptation of his novel The French Lieutenant’s Woman starred Meryl Streep as Sarah Woodruff. Its famous trailer begins with the actor sweeping across the Cobb, the hood of her cloak covering her face. For the filming, many buildings in the town were given a 19th-century facade. For a film that plays with time, it seems appropriate that the town’s bookshop kept its temporary fascia for many years.

Our walk back to West Bay is 10 miles long and begins not along the coast but by heading inland. The west Dorset coast is friable – the cliffs keep falling on to the beaches, and the path to Charmouth takes a diversion through a golf course. It wasn’t always like this: once there was a coastal road, Long Entry, between the two settlements. In 1725, Henry Fielding, then aged 17, attempted to abduct his cousin Sarah, with whom he was infatuated, from Lyme. The future novelist made his escape along Long Entry before being stopped by her guardian.

Our walk back to the coast is interrupted by a sculpture on the path. The shape of a woman, angular and determined, a hammer in her outstretched right hand, the other holding above her head the skeleton of a prehistoric animal. There’s another recent sculpture of the same subject, Mary Anning, in Lyme Regis, recording her importance to palaeontology and to the town, but this upland creature, made by Greta Berlin, is wilder, perfectly suited to its woodland setting. The representation of the fossil held aloft is Anning’s discovery: Ichthyosaurus anningae. One cannot walk this section of Dorset’s coast without being aware of its ancient past and the fragile geology close to the surface. Our boat trip began on crumbly sandstone, which gave way to fossil-rich clay as we travelled west.

Charmouth is a pretty village with no harbour; its shallow waters make it popular with those learning to swim or paddleboard. This next section of the South West Coast Path, to West Bay, coincides with the Monarch’s Way, the route that Charles II took to flee to mainland Europe after the civil war. Our day is more peaceful but the path is steep. We’re grateful for Tom’s company – his latest novel, Everything Will Swallow You, is infused with the history and landscape of the Dorset coast and his knowledge enlivens our walk, as do the pasties he brings, baked by his wife, Ellie.

We pass the remains of St Gabriel’s Church, which fell into disuse in the 18th century, although smugglers found within its walls useful shelter for their contraband. Soon we’re on Golden Cap, the highest point on the south coast – 191 metres (627ft) above sea level, with extraordinary views over Lyme Bay. At Seatown, we stop at the Anchor Inn for refreshments, meeting friends who have opted for a shorter walk. From Thorncombe Beacon, we descend to Eype Mouth – in Old English Eype is “Steep Place”; the church in this secluded village was chosen by PJ Harvey to record Let England Shake, a Mercury prize-winning album rich with the echoes of war.

There are further reminders of the coast’s fragility on the final stretch to West Bay – one sign references a cliff fall in 2020, and the path is frequently redirected to safer routes. West Bay, a small stone town, was once the harbour from where Bridport exported its rope and was originally called Bridport Harbour, but had its name changed by the railway company hoping to attract tourists. The railway is long gone – its station now hosts a restaurant in railway carriages – but West Bay, with its stalls for chips and views back towards Lyme, is a fitting place to end, a town out of time.

OS Explorer 116 (Lyme Regis & Bridport) covers the entire walk from Lyme Regis to West Bay. The Lyme Bay Water Taxi operates during the summer months; there is a year-round bus service between West Bay and Lyme Regis. Jon Woolcott is the author of Real Dorset and The Tattooed Hills, Journeys to Chalk Figures

“It should be OK to say someone’s baby is ugly.”

“Being a pet is forced, unpaid emotional labor.”

“It’s OK to be attracted to your friend’s man.”

“Cartoon Network was better than Disney Channel and Nickelodeon.”

“Men should be required to get a vasectomy after a certain amount of baby mamas.”

These are just some of the bold, controversial statements that have come up at “Unpopular Opinion,” a live, interactive event where people share and defend their hot takes in front of a spirited audience. To support their claims, they present slide decks filled with graphics and memes on a giant screen. Those in the crowd gasp, cheer and laugh.

The crowd from a past “Unpopular Opinion” event. The viral series is coming to the Regent Theater in L.A.

(Quest Hollis / SideQuest Visuals)

The event was created by Chance Albury and Sarah Prince, founders of the Washington, D.C.-based experiential production company Something Different. People were already having these types of impassioned conversations online, Albury says, and they simply wanted to provide that space in real life.

They debuted the series in February, and after recaps of events went viral, they decided to take it on tour. “Unpopular Opinion” makes a stop in Los Angeles on Thursday at the Regent Theater.

“Who knew rage-baiting could be such a unifier?” Albury says.

“Everyone loves to argue,” Prince adds.

Albury says that the success of the show relies on having different perspectives and opinions in the room. The slide decks are also a major draw. Unpopular Opinion is one of several events that takes PowerPoint-style presentations out of their traditional setting — the office or the classroom — and puts them front and center in a social scene. Over the last few years, slide decks have shown up at house parties, matchmaking events and even in bars at gatherings like Lectures on Tap.

Anyone who wants to present can submit their hot take through an application form. Albury and Prince receive roughly 50 submissions for each event, but only about seven to nine are selected.

Presenters defend their hottest takes on stage using slides and passion.

(Quest Hollis / SideQuest Visuals)

“There’s just so many topics that you can talk about so it can’t get old,” says Prince, adding that a lot of the speakers are funny and present like stand-up comedians.

Typically hosted at a live music venue, the vibe of “Unpopular Opinion” feels like a boisterous late-night game show. Drinks are available for purchase at the bar. A live DJ plays a mix of hip-hop, pop and other high-energy genres as a host hypes up the crowd. As an icebreaker, audience members are asked to submit their own unpopular opinions to be displayed on the screen for everyone to see.

Then the main event begins. Presenters are given 10 minutes to make their case. Unlike a traditional debate tournament, audience members are encouraged to get involved and make their thoughts known.

“There’s just so many topics that you can talk about so it can’t get old,” says co-founder Sarah Prince.

(Quest Hollis / SideQuest Visuals)

After each pitch, the host asks audience members to hold up their paddle, which has a green thumbs up and a red thumbs down to indicate whether they agree or disagree. Then a mic is passed around so attendees can share their thoughts or rebuttals.

Though the event is called “Unpopular Opinion,” there are times when the majority of the crowd agrees with the presenter. There are also times when the audience strongly disagrees. In either case, Albury and Prince ask that attendees are respectful to one another.

The presentation topics range drastically, from lighthearted social media discourse (“Women standing behind the DJ booth is more embarrassing than men”) to hot-button dating debates (“Splitting the bill on the first date is fine”) to deeper societal issues (“People hate everything about slavery but Christianity”).

Albury and Prince say they are exploring ways to bring “Unpopular Opinion” “beyond the show doors” for those who can’t make it to a live event. They already post man-on-the-street-style interviews on social media, in which they ask people to weigh in on hot button questions.

Albury says the beauty of “Unpopular Opinion” is that it shows people it’s OK to disagree. “Just because we have different opinions doesn’t mean we can’t talk about it,” she says. “We may not even come to terms on agreeing or disagreeing, but we’ve got that space.”

AUTUMN definitely is here but the wet, wind and cold isn’t quite yet, which is great news as it means we can spend more time outside.

And with that in mind, the UK has tons of outdoor days out that are ideal for making the most of dry and warmer 22C autumn days.

From woodland activity trails to grand pumpkin patches, you don’t have to spend a penny to enjoy the autumn sun.

So here’s our top free autumn days out across the UK:

Richmond Park, London

National treasure David Attenborough recently said that Richmond Park is “both a refuge and a source of inspiration” and that he wouldn’t want to live anywhere else despite having travelled the globe.

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And with all there is to do in Richmond Park, it isn’t surprising.

Visitors can see ancient oaks and herds of deer as well as head off on autumnal walks.

For a change of scene, from the park you can head into the town too and explore independent shops or walk along the river spotting the swans and ducks.

The Wye Valley & Forest of Dean

Sitting across the English and Welsh border, the Wye Valley and Forest of Dean is known as one of the UK’s most enchanting regions.

The site is actually an ancient hunting ground with over 20 million trees.

For visitors there are woodland walks, historical ruins and river adventures.

If you want a challenging walk, head up to Symonds Yat Rock or the Devil’s Pulpit.

Mam Tor, The Peak District

Mam Tor in the Peak District boasts panoramic views of the Hope Valley, and in the autumn it is even more special to visit with the leaves turning brown and yellow.

For a calm walk, there is a three-mile circular route that takes around two hours to complete and includes heading to the summit as well as the Great Ridge and Windy Knoll.

The Scottish Borders

Up in the north, the Scottish Borders has numerous free walking trails to head off on with historic woodlands and ruined abbeys.

There are plenty of free places to explore across the Scottish Borders area, including St Abbs Head National Nature Reserve where there are numerous walking trails.

Or head to Kelso Town Centre with a historic cobblestone market square and loads of independent shops.

Moors Valley Country Park & Forest

Located in Dorset, Moors Valley Country Park & Forest has an interactive play trail with famous characters including the Gruffalo and Zog.

There are a number of different play areas too, including the Snake Pit with giant wooden snakes that kids can scramble through.

The park is home to a lot of paid-for activities too, including Go Ape.

But if you only want to spend a few quid, then there are activity trail sheets you can pick up or craft workshops.

Heartwood Forest, Hertfordshire

Heartwood Forest is a Woodland Trust site that is free to visit and also has free parking.

Wander through the ancient bluebell woods and see newly planted trees.

On October 10, there’s even a short guided walk at Heartwood Arboretum.

You’d see 60 species of trees on the free walk, but you will need to book in advance.

Dalby Forest, North York Moors

Dalby Forest is spread over 8,000 acres, so there is plenty to explore with several miles of easy walking trails.

Make sure to look out for the free Gruffalo orienteering markers hidden among the trees.

There’s currently a sculpture trail at the forest too, along the Adderstone Rigg Trail.

Dartmoor National Park, Devon

Want to feel as if you have stepped into the likes of Wuthering Heights or Sense and Sensibility? Then head to Dartmoor.

This sprawling 368-square-mile national park in Devon is home to the most beautiful walks in the county, in my opinion.

From rock formations that look more like mythical beasts to river spots with giant stepping stones, the park boasts tons of possible days out.

And if you are lucky, you’ll be able to spot some Dartmoor ponies.

Alice Holt Forest

Alice Holt Forest near Farnham is thought to be one of the best family woodlands to visit in the south, with trails ideal for buggies and little ones.

The park also has a small café ideal for grabbing a cuppa if there is a chill in the air.

Charleton Fruit Farm

In Angus, Scotland, Charleton Fruit Farm is home to a huge pumpkin patch from October 9 that is completely free to visit.

There’s lots of other stuff to do at the farm as well for free, including the play park with go- karts, trampolinesand sandpitt.

You can also pick seasonal fruit at the farm, but this isn’t free – you’ll be charged according to the weight of what you pick.

Doddington Hall and Gardens

Doddington Hall and Gardens is another spot with a free pumpkin patch, where there are more than 30 types of pumpkins, squashes and gourds to choose from.

If you do want to buy one though, you of course will need to pay for this, with prices usually starting from £4.

Throughout the patch though, there will be some pumpkins with golden bottoms – if you find one, it means you’ll win the pumpkin, as well asa family ticket to Christmas in the Hall as well as a homegrown Christmas tree.

Wings, Wonders & Wildlife Trail at Sandilands

At National Trust‘s Sandilands in Mablethorpe, Lincolnshire, you can head off on a free trail where families learn about six winter visitors.

Along the trail, visitors will test their knowledge with interactive challenges.

The trail is great for all ages and is self-led through the nature reserve.

The Grown-Up Getaways offer the chance to try jewellery making, pottery or painting, as well as explore some of the UK’s most beautiful beaches and countryside

There’s no time like the changing colours of autumn to explore what the rest of the UK has to offer before the biting winter weather sets in. And for those seeking a fuss-free getaway, one holiday park group is offering breaks from £99 for four nights with more than 40 picturesque locations to choose from.

Parkdean Resorts operates sites across Britain’s coast and countryside, from the beaches of Devon and Cornwall to quiet escapes in Northumberland and Scotland via the likes of the ever-popular Lake District and the Welsh seaside. While many may think of a holiday park break as being one for families with little ones in tow, Parkdean Resorts also offers Grown-Up Getaways – designed specifically for adults looking to enjoy a holiday at their own pace.

These breaks tailored to grown-ups offer a packed programme of activities outside of school holidays, so holidaymakers can start their day with yoga or swimming, while away the afternoon with board games, pool, darts or archery, and spend evenings enjoying a whodunnit murder mystery, karaoke, poker, bingo or a quiz. Other new activities at these Grown-Up Getaways include creative pursuits such as jewellery making, pottery, painting and mosaic art, while entertainment ranges from country nights to rock ‘n’ roll shows and performances full of hits from iconic musicals.

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There are various accommodation options to choose from too, from lodges and caravans to glamping pods, safari tents and cottages with hot tubs, while restaurants, bars, takeaway options and on-site supermarkets at each park provide plenty of places to eat and drink. Holidaymakers seeking a stress-free break can book all-inclusive packages at the majority of Parkdean Resorts sites across the UK too.

All-inclusive holidays are available on selected four-night Monday arrival stays at 45 parks, as well as on selected three-night weekend breaks at 14 parks across the UK, with packages starting from £100 per adult and £40 per child. These breaks include three restaurant meals a day, unlimited soft drinks and Costa Coffee, plus plenty of choice on dedicated kids’ menus.

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Grown-Up Getaways offer activities for adults outside of school holidays, while all-inclusive packages are also available.

Another choice for UK holiday parks is Haven, which is inviting visitors to its Haunted Haven season this Halloween when its holiday parks will be offering activities and entertainment with a spooky twist. With more than 30 locations to choose from, prices for a Halloween-themed break start from £65 for four nights.

A different option is Forest Holidays, which can be found in 13 UK forests stretching from Deerpark in Cornwall right up to Strathyre in Stirling. Each lodge at these sites comes with a hot tub, with one to five-bedroom options available for couples’ retreats or family holidays.

Back at Parkdean Resorts, for holidaymakers seeking inspiration on where to go this autumn, the top-rated choice of the group’s destinations on TripAdvisor based on nearly 2,000 reviews is Falbarrow Holiday Park in the Lake District. Situated on Lake Windermere with direct access to the water’s edge, this site offers ample opportunity for water sports such as sailing, kayaking, and paddleboarding on England’s largest lake, although it is also not one of the sites where the all-inclusive offer is available.

Meanwhile, one Parkdean Resorts regular wrote in a five-star review on Trustpilot: “Great holiday park, friendly staff especially in the bar and restaurant. Being pet-friendly made it for us.”

Another customer said: “This place was superb, caravan was lovely and the lakes are great. I have already booked for next year. Been coming to Cornwall now for the last 10 years and been all over in caravan parks for holidays, but this place was best by far.”

And a third praised: “Lovely site. Swimming pool absolutely brilliant as were the child aqua jets and water skis. Very good value for money and the site is very nicely maintained. We got a late deal and it was an absolute bargain!”

One holidaymaker thought their accommodation could have been improved, feeding back: “I booked a three-bedroom lodge but was up graded to a four-bedroom. I feel I should have been given the choice of upgrade because I found it very big for two of us.”

A different reviewer commented: “Parkdean is a great option holiday for relaxing and doing your own thing. Has all the facilities you require to make it a great holiday.”