Travel

The house that served as the home of Doris in the hit BBC sitcom Gavin and Stacey is now available to rent for holidaymakers who want to immerse themselves in the world of the show

Attention, Gavin and Stacey superfans – you can now book a stay in one of the iconic houses from the hit BBC One sitcom. Trinity Street in Barry, with views of the Island, was the fictional home to Gwen and Stacey, Uncle Bryn and their cheeky neighbour Doris, played by actor Margaret John.

When the show returned in 2019, Doris’ house became the family home for Gavin and Stacey and their children, after it was passed down to them following her death. Gwen’s house (played by Melanie Walters) has always been a fan favourite, but now the neighbouring property is available for rent for holidaymakers wanting to experience the world of Gavin and Stacey.

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The red-brick terrace, named Lush House, is owned by Lisa and Chris Molloy, who are huge fans of the show. They were the first to view the property when it went on sale and managed to buy it, having loved the sitcom since it first aired in 2008, according to Wales Online.

You can book Lush House through Sykes Cottages for as early as next week, with prices starting from £472 for a two-night stay. If split between five people, this works out at around £47 per person per night.

The house comfortably sleeps five guests in two bedrooms: one double and another with a three-person bunk. The snug living and dining area is equipped with an electric fire, TV and WiFi for cosy nights in after a day of exploring, along with a dining table – just don’t forget the salad!

The property is already fully booked for Christmas week (we’re sure whoever has nabbed it is planning a Gavin and Stacey marathon) but there’s plenty of other availability in November and December.

The house has been the setting for some of Gavin and Stacey’s most memorable moments, including saucy Doris snogging toyboy Scott, making a pass at Gav on the doorstep, and in the 2019 and 2024 Christmas specials, it was the backdrop for the whole gang to celebrate Christmas as Uncle Bryn’s military operation dinner was (part) cooked there.

Step outside the front door and you’re just minutes away from Barry’s vibrant high street and Barry Island – where Marco’s Café, the slots and the chip shops are at the beach front – is just a half-hour walk away.

You can book Lush House with Sykes Cottages here, and for other holiday lets in Barry, try Holidaycottages.com and Vrbo.

WOULD you believe it that one village in Suffolk used to be as big as London, and just as important?

On the east coast of England is a village that years ago used to be one of the country’s biggest trade hubs, but due to coastal erosion has been lost to the sea.

Dunwich in Suffolk sits 13 miles down the coast from Lowestoft, and in recent history has been called the ‘Lost City of England‘ or even Suffolk’s answer to Atlantis.

During the medieval period, Dunwich had a main port which was a huge hub for international trade in what was the Kingdom of East Anglia.

Dunwich was even the capital of the Kingdom of the East Angles in the Anglo-Saxon period.

At that time, Dunwich was home to around 3,000 people – the same number that were in London.

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It would trade goods like wool, grain and fish, but problems began in the 14th century after a number of huge storms.

Significant storms in 1286, 1328 and 1362 caused a huge amount of damage, destroying buildings.

It washed the port and a large amount of the town into the sea, including around 400 houses and eight churches.

Sonar images have even revealed a number of old buildings and streets sitting 30 feet below the sea.

After this, the medieval port was lost and so Dunwich became what it’s known as now, a coastal village.

There’s very little of the original Dunwich left now, but one ruin that’s still on land is the Greyfriars Monastery.

This isn’t the original though as that was also destroyed by a storm in 1286, the ruins visible today are from the “new” friary that was rebuilt in the late 13th century.

These are reportedly haunted with some visitors saying they spotted mysterious lights, and even ghosts at the friary.

If you want to learn more about Dunwich’s rich history, there’s even a museum dedicated to telling the history of the village from Roman times to the present day.

But today, most people visit Dunwich to spend time on its stretching beach which in 2021 was named as one of the UK’s best-kept secrets.

Just down the coast is Dunwich Heath, known for its wildlife like Dartford warblers, woodlarks, adders and antlions.

The beach and surrounding countryside are owned by the National Trust, which runs a beachside tearoom called Coastguard Cottages where you can pick up hot and cold drinks, snacks and light meals.

There’s also a children’s play area on the beach, and cafes and pubs in the nearby village.

Favourites on Tripadvisor include The Ship Inn Restaurant, Flora Tea Rooms and The 12 Lost Churches.

For more exploration, further up the coast is the pretty seaside town of Southwold, or travel south to Leiston and Aldeburgh.

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The English seaside town with no arcades or rides but named the best in the UK…

Aldeburgh in Suffolk doesn’t have any arcades, but instead is littered with pastel-coloured holiday villas and fisherman’s huts selling the daily catch.

Today, the town still celebrates its rich history and has a literary festival each year.

Locals also boast about the town’s fish and chips, with The Suffolk recommended by Michelin.

Along the high street, instead of arcades you will find clothes boutiques, antiques shops and independent book stores.

One stop to head to is O&C Butcher – a 130-year-old clothes store selling top brands including Barbour and Gant. The town is also known for being the home of famous composer, Benjamin Britten.

Today, during the summer months, visitors can head to his home, The Red House. Britten shared the home with Peter Pears and it is nestled in a five acre garden, with a farmhouse, gallery space, shop and cafe. And there is a historic cinema in the town too.

It doesn’t look like your average cinema from the outside, as it features timber framing.

The beach itself boasts both shingle and sand and backs onto the town, making it the ideal spot for adventuring to after exploring the town.

On the beach you will also find The Scallop – a sculpture that is a tribute to Benjamin Britten.

The Times recently named the seaside town the best in the UK.

For a place to stay in Dunwich, discover what one writer made of the Smugglers Inn.

And hear more from Jimmy Doherty who lives in Suffolk or as he called it, the ‘undiscovered gem of England’.

There’s a never-ending list of places across the UK where you can get your hands on a hearty dish of fish and chips. But there’s one particular chippy that has long been hailed as ‘the best’

Fish and chips are a staple in British cuisine, and have been famously classed as the national dish for centuries. Whether that’s eating them at the seaside, indulging in a fish supper at your local pub, or making your own variation at home, there’s nothing quite like it.

But there’s one UK village thought to offer one of the best places to enjoy the delicacy. Nestled in the village of Beamish in County Durham, which “hasn’t changed over 100 years”, is Davys Fish & Chips.

Content creator and avid foodie, Callum (@streetfoodanalysis), took to TikTok to share a video of the hearty eatery, labelling it the “best” in the country. In a video showing a glimpse inside Davys Fish & Chips, Callum said: “This is the fish and chip shop trapped in time.

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“One of the last in the world that uses coal to heat the original 1950s fryers with fish and chips cooked in beef dripping.”Proving just how delicious Davys Fish & Chips is, Callum shared a clip of himself indulging in the dish as he exclaimed, “Wow”.

With a perfect crisp on both the fish and chips, it’s not just Callum who has given rave reviews of this frozen-in-time fish and chip shop. His video was flooded with comments from others who have sampled the famed meal from this charming eatery, with its blue counter and original features. One affirmed: “Beamish fish and chips were the best fish and chips I have ever had.”

A second penned: “Beamish is one of our favourite places to go, as for the chip shop, it’s amazing, you can’t get better. It’s the one on the mining village, beware, the portions are huge. Can’t wait to go back.”

“Love going to Beamish, those fish n chips are absolutely worth the 2 hour wait”, a third noted. Another added: “Love Beamish the chips are a must.”

While another commented: “The fish n chips looked amazing! Absolutely beautiful place! And visitors still keep on visiting Beamish!” “Love Beamish, the chippy is unreal!” one more declared.

In the video, which has accumulated more than 500K likes, Callum said the chippy is found in Beamish, where “the sweet shop makes candy by hand and the bakery makes the same cakes as a century ago.” He also noted that it’s a place which rarely has phone signal, adding to its quaint and historic appeal.

AS I walked down the gangplank, I felt green – no not seasick, ENVY!

I’m taking a look at the latest vessel to join the Ambassador fleet, its first fly-cruise ship.

Renaissance was setting off from London Tilbury on a cold afternoon to spend the winter cruising the Caribbean – sadly, without me.

The first guests were already having fun at Le Lido with its lovely swimming pool and two whirlpools, under an impressive retractable roof.

There is another outdoor pool at the stern.

Renaissance is British-French owned and recently renovated – and it shows. Not glitzy, not modern, just effortlessly chic.

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Top-notch dining

It can carry 1,100 guests who will fly/cruise from Barbados on 14-night itineraries, which include visits to St Kitts, Martinique, Antigua, St Maarten and Curacao.

The cruise line has chartered Virgin Atlantic flights from Heathrow or Manchester to fly you in style to join Renaissance for the winter season, with four choices of seating class.

Renaissance will then head to Blighty for the summer to join sister ships Ambience and Ambition with exciting new itineraries.

A peek at the choice of cabins impressed me. Even the inside one is spacious, light and airy, with serious amounts of storage – and enough hangers!

This is not a super- luxurious expensive cruise line, but it offers a great-value opportunity to escape the British winter.

The inside cabins were the best I have ever seen. The suites? Well, with a super-spacious private balcony, I would have had to drag myself away to enjoy the onboard entertainment. They were very good value.

There are of course porthole and window cabins, some balcony, and even cabins with sliding doors onto the outside deck.

The theatre was gorgeous – elegant and comfortable, West End glamour – without the queue for the Ladies!

A large gym, and free access to the spa suite promised opportunities to keep fit. Lots of lounge and library space too.

And there are plenty of top-notch dining options.

The impressive Valet main dining restaurant covers two decks and offers great sea views.

The Belle Vue buffet restaurant is great for casual dining and there are three speciality venues at a small extra cost plus a signature Chef’s Table seven-course dining experience.

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Kreole will serve up a vibrant menu reflecting Caribbean culinary traditions, Lotus has Pan-Asian options and Terre et Mer will feature a six-course extravaganza.

I was sad Renaissance sailed without me this time but you don’t have to miss the boat, there are Christmas and New Year cruises as well as lots more dates to discover the delights of Ambassadors’ Renaissance in the Caribbean in 2026.

OVER 1,700 flights have already been canceled across the country this weekend as officials warn Thanksgiving will be hit by travel chaos.

It comes as the US endures its longest government shutdown in history and federal aviation officials order 40 major airports to slash services due to staffing shortages.

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has vowed on X to “keep the skies safe” by using every tactic at his disposal, which he said will see travelers increasingly hit with delays and cancelations.

On Friday he warned that even if the government shutdown ended now, Thanksgiving air travel would still be impacted.

“So if the government opens on Day 1, will I see an immediate response from controllers? No, the union is telling me it’s going to take time to get them all back in,” Duffy told CNN.

At the time of writing, the number of canceled flights for today alone already stands at 957, according to FlightAware, and at least 8,442 are delayed.

Sunday already has at least 838 flight cancelations and 213 delays.

Duffy confirmed in a joint statement with the Federal Aviation Administration on Friday that cuts to services will increase across this weekend and into next week.

“We are seeing signs of stress in the system, so we are proactively reducing the number of flights to make sure the American people continue to fly safely,” FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford said.

“The FAA will continue to closely monitor operations, and we will not hesitate to take further action to make sure air travel remains safe.”

The statement noted a 4% cut in operations on Friday, “ramping up to 6% by November 11, 8% by November 13, and 10% by November 14”.

This percentage of cuts could rise to 15% or 20% if the government shutdown does not end “relatively soon,” Duffy warned when speaking to Fox News.

Major airlines have already tried to do damage control by announcing cancelations ahead of time.

On Friday, American Airlines told CNN it would cut 220 flights from its Saturday services.

United Airlines confirmed hundreds of cuts across the weekend through to Tuesday, and Southwest has axed approximately 100 flights on Saturday and 150 on Sunday.

Travelers caught up in the chaos have described the carnage awaiting them at the airports with people lying on floors and sleeping where they can while hoping to hear news of their flights.

Travelers should check with their airline for the latest updates on their flights.

Meanwhile, tourism officials are urging both Republicans and Democrats to end the stalemate that began on October 1 as they fear catastrophic economic blows.

Hawaii in particular is in danger of unique harm, officials have warned Duffy, as the islands are hit with the enforced cuts but with little alternative for health care, commerce, or security.

“We strongly urge federal leaders to reach an immediate resolution,” Hawaiian Airlines said while thanking the air traffic controllers and TSA officers keeping airports running without pay.

And officials in Las Vegas, which is already suffering from a tourism hole, have warned that the shutdown and airport cuts have happened at the worst possible time.

The U.S. Travel Association joined by MGM Resorts, Caesars Entertainment, The Venetian, and the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority wrote a letter urging Congress to take action now to end the shutdown.

They warned that the travel industry has already lost $4 billion and that the economic situation will only worsen as Americans and travelers from abroad rethink their trips.

Retailers are also preparing to feel the impact just as holiday season hits as supply chain officials warn that a large amount of cargo is carried on commercial flights.

“Forty percent to 50% of all air freight is shipped in the belly of passenger planes,” Patrick Penfield, a Syracuse University professor of supply chain practice told NBC News.

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“If you eliminate 10% of airline capacity, air freight prices will rise, and we could see delays in getting materials via air.”

The shutdown has entered its 38th day and no end is in sight after Senate Republicans rejected an offer by the Democrats on Friday to reopen with a health care deal.

The tourist’s bathroom dilemma amused social media users when she admitted her problem

People have been left stunned after an American tourist admitted she didn’t know how to use the sink in her hotel room. The blogger, Angelica, has been posting about her UK travel on TikTok under the username @angelicajenniferr.

In one video from her recent trip to London, the tourist encountered an unusual problem. She told viewers: “Okay, I’m currently in London and guys, I don’t know how to make my sink water go away. I have tried clicking it.

“Am I dumb, or is it like, right in front of my face? Or is it broken? I’m like, it doesn’t click. Is there a button I’m missing?” Asking for help, Angelica said: “Yall, how do I make the water go away?

“Um, can anyone who lives in London or European help me? Because my sink is broken or, I don’t know if it’s broken or if I’m being dumb. The water isn’t going away.” In her caption, she added: “I feel so dumb but also I’m totally about to call the front desk.”

Fortunately, Angelica soon realised her mistake. In a follow-up video, she told viewers: “Let me go down the list of things that you told me to try, and it still didn’t work, and then I’ll tell you what did work.

“Okay, for starters, I have been pushing on this thing. My knuckles will be bleeding soon. People said to pull this down, to pull this. Nothing works. There’s nothing around the sink, okay.

“I had to call someone and be like, I think my sink’s broken. And I was like, the water isn’t going down, I’ve tried everything. And do you know what they told me? Let me tell you. They were like, flip it like a coin, which I know you guys said that. I was like, you’re kidding. You are kidding.

“So look at me. That’s so much easier. I have nails, and I was afraid to break them.” She joked: “Anyways, blonde moment. It flips like a coin. So I learned something new.”

The videos went viral, with the second clip racking up over 200k views. Reacting to the video, some commenters were shocked by the post.

One viewer replied: “Not trying everything then lol.” A second commented: “Standard hotel sink…” Another commenter said: “So if you didn’t think to try this, you obviously hadn’t tried everything.” Someone else wrote: “My sink is like that. I can’t believe you didn’t know how to do that….”

However, others rushed to defend the tourist, saying they would have struggled as well. A viewer said: “Italian here. Never seen anything like that. In fact, I would have been in trouble too… It should also be said that it seems like a very unhygienic solution.”

A second added: “As a Brit, I would have been lost too, don’t worry. I know these sinks exist, but they’re not everywhere.” Someone agreed: “I’m a Brit and have never seen a plug like this. Don’t worry, you’re not alone!”

WITH a bright blue flowing river, mountains and a huge canyon, you might think this spot is in America at first glance.

But no, this beautiful place is not in Arizona, instead it’s in one of the prettiest French regions, and Brits rarely travel to it.

You’ll find this spot in Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, which is one of the six departments in the Provence region.

The department is home to ‘Europe‘s Grand Canyon’ called Gorges du Verdon in France, which is a huge limestone gorge carved by the very blue Verdon River.

The Gorges du Verdon is 15 miles long, up to 700 meters deep, and between 6 and 100 meters wide at the bottom.

While it’s a great place to get pictures, there’s even more you can do there, from hiking to climbing, and watersports.

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The river begins near the town of Castellane, and ends at the Lake of Esparron.

To see more of the natural beauty, and particularly wildlife, head to the Verdon National Park where there are vultures, eagles and falcons.

There are also wolves, chamois (a type of goat-antelope), roe deer, wild boar, and ibex, as well as reptiles, bats, fish and scorpions.

The Sun’s Brittany Vonow explored France in a campervan earlier this year where she discovered the incredible canyon along the way.

She said: “One highlight was a visit to the Verdon Gorge, a river canyon close to the region of Quinson, filled with deep turquoise water.

“We filled up on a quick lunch from our gas stove — two minute noodles with some tinned veg mixed in — before hiking the stunning mountains bordering the water.”

Brittany continued: “Our “cooee” calls echo around the rock faces and at that moment, it feels like we are the only people left in the world. A short drive west of here took us to Sainte Croix Verdon, home to a huge lake with waters as turquoise as the Verdon Gorge.

“With each turn, southern France shows off its jaw-dropping vistas, from rolling lavender fields to gorgeous gorges that make way for towering snow-capped mountains and picturesque French towns nestled in between.”

The Alpes-de-Haute-Provence also has mountains with ski resorts in the north, with many in the Verdon valley.

The department is also famous for its lavender fields, especially the Plateau de Valensole – to see them in bloom, visit from late June to mid-July.

The Alpes-de-Haute-Provence department of France has no main airport and so it’s not as visited as some of its neighbours nearer the coast like Marseille and Nice.

These cities are the ones that Brits will have to fly to, and then drive into the department from.

Both Marseille and Nice are around two and a half hours away from the Verdon Gorge by car.

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For more in France, here’s an underrated city that has a ‘bit of everything’ with picturesque beaches and new cheap hotels.

Also in France is the world’s most beautiful village – with classic car tours & fairytale lavender fields.

ARRIVING in India, I feel like Dorothy entering Oz. This country is an assault on the senses in every way.

One minute I’m practising sunrise yoga to the peaceful sound of birds chirping; the next, I’m surrounded by loud honking cars and bikes on a bumpy bus ride through the city.

My serene morning walk at the green Lodi Gardens sits in complete contrast to the brightly coloured markets, selling vibrant yellow flower garlands under the smell of rich incense, that I’m exploring just hours later.

It was my first visit to India and naturally, as a solo female tourist, safety was at the forefront of my mind. But the tide is changing with regard to how women are accepted across the country, and this has been incorporated into Intrepid’s unique Women’s Expedition tours.

It supports locals on the ground, and I met some during my stay in Chandelao.

A tiny village an hour from Jodphur and off the tourist trail, it is home to just 3,500 people.

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There, I explored the local arts centre Sunder Rang, which employs women to work — uncommon especially in more rural areas.

The shop is full of multicoloured items made from scrap fabrics, with everything from clothing and bags to decorations on sale.

One of the young jewellery makers let me try my hand at threading beads as we huddled together in the shade.

Due to my novice skills, I resorted to buying her handmade necklaces (guided by her on which to choose, as they even earn commission).

My art skills were tested further at Chandelao Garh, a stunning 17th century former fort now a hotel with 20 rooms and a swimming pool.

Locals taught me the art of Rangoli — circular patterns drawn on the ground in celebration.

I was only slightly offended when the cheeky hotel dog Pluto walked all over my wonky chalk designs.

Chandelao is the kind of village where slowness is encouraged — be it a sunset walk through the streets or a leisurely candlelit dinner chased by a Kingfisher beer.

But just a few hours east is the crowd-heavy Jaipur, nicknamed the Pink City for its terracotta walls.

Keen to escape the market chaos, I opted for a tour with Renu, a rare female tuk-tuk driver and now chair of tour company Pink City Rickshaw.

While the women face adversity from both family and other male drivers, the job gives them economic independence.

I was whirled around in the electric tuk-tuks, exploring the Old City with street food stops to keep me going in the 33C heat. I recommend trying Sabudana tikki, an Indian hash brown with tapioca, followed by a cooling kheer rice pudding.

The female rickshaw drivers were patient enough to let me take my selfies at the famous pink Hawa Mahal palace, too.

Built to allow the female royal household to watch the city without being seen by others, the towering palace wall was too beautiful to skip.

It was as I was gazing up at the intricately carved windows (of which there are 953) that my driver explained some of the stares we noticed from locals while in the tuk-tuk.

“We’ve seen male drivers crash into walls, they are so shocked to see a woman behind the wheel,” Renu told me with a laugh.

My experience of the Fast & Furious-esque rickshaws that squeeze through impossible gaps in the traffic means this doesn’t exactly surprise me. Thankfully, the women drive at a slower, safer pace for any nervous travellers.

Travelling further east, we head to Agra, home to the historic red sandstone Agra Fort and one of the Seven Wonders of the World, the Taj Mahal.

Haggled for scarves

It’s worth the 4.30am wake-up to see the sky lighting up behind the domed mausoleum, built over two decades by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in honour of his late wife, Mumtaz Mahal.

It’s almost impossible to comprehend the details that remain after 400 years, with the bright white marble towering 240ft high, ornamented with jewels and intricate patterns.

The early start also allows you to avoid the huge crowds and the midday heat.

I managed to skip the lunchtime crush by visiting Sheroes, a cafe run by acid-attack survivors.

It’s a hard visit, where staff share their stories about being injured.

Over homecooked chickpea curries and roti, I chatted to 25-year-old Dolly, who was attacked as a child by a man 22 years her senior. The cafe gave her confidence to re-enter society.

Being a female traveller, the Intrepid tour helped me explore the country safely as a woman.

I stopped in Jodhpur, the Blue City, and learned about the beautiful Mehrangarh Fort which was used to film Batman movie, The Dark Knight Rises, and the live-action movie The Jungle Book.

And in chaotic Delhi, I haggled for handwoven scarfs from eager market vendors, before being dragged into dance by a man wearing a bejewelled elephant outfit.

India might have a way to go still when it comes to equality. But it’s certainly on the right trajectory.

And with Virgin Atlantic now celebrating 25 years of flying to this awe-inspiring country, it shows this a destination that will always be top of British holidaymakers’ bucket lists.

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I’ll be back.

After a click of my new ruby red Indian slippers, of course.

If traditional British cuisine is your thing, you might want to head to this pretty village in the north east

Tucked away in the northeast of England lies one of Britain’s most picturesque villages.

Sitting high above the North Yorkshire Moors, the seaside treasure of Staithes was formerly a thriving fishing harbour in the North East.

Rich in heritage, Staithes is also home to one of the area’s best Sunday roasts, dished up at The Captain Cook Inn.

The Captain Cook Inn boasts an enviable location, set amongst the clifftops with sweeping views across the charming cobbled lanes and peaceful shoreline beneath.

Customers have flocked to Tripadvisor to sing the praises of the pub’s roast dinners, reports the Express.

One delighted customer declared: “Had a fabulous Sunday Roast, plenty of it and the beef was so tender and very moreish!”.

Sharing this view, another guest commented: “The meal was absolutely delicious. The meat was so tender and the vegetables were al dente. Just how we like them. Big fluffy Yorkshire and rich gravy. Could have eaten a whole plate of their roast potatoes.”

Alongside the celebrated roast, the establishment serves traditional favourites including steak pie, scampi and chips, and golden whitebait for starters.

Ale lovers can enjoy a range of brews, including the signature tipple, Northern Navigator, produced specially for the inn by the North Yorkshire Brewery, just 15 miles down the road.

Little wonder that The Captain Cook Inn received Tripadvisor’s Travellers’ Choice Award. Visitors to the village can delve into its rich history, which is dominated by its most famous historical figure – Captain James Cook.

The Staithes Heritage Centre and Captain Cook Museum offer a trip back in time, recreating the shop where the famed explorer once worked as a grocer’s apprentice.

This delightful centre is filled with a collection that includes books, letters, and medals, transporting visitors back to the era of Captain Cook.

Staithes, also known for its vibrant artistic heritage, was once home to a significant group of artists known as the “Staithes group” or the “Northern Impressionists”.

Today, the pride of the village, the Staithes Gallery, showcases an impressive range of contemporary artwork, including paintings, photographs, and sculptures, all inspired by the charming village and its scenic surroundings.

For those interested in prehistoric discoveries, Staithes sits on the renowned Dinosaur Coast, offering plenty of opportunities for uncovering the past.

Tucked away within the village’s harbour is the sheltered Staithes Beach; when the tide goes out, it reveals a captivating world of rockpools filled with fossils and tiny sea creatures, providing endless fascination for any keen fossil hunter.

Further escapades await along the Cleveland Way National Trail, a 109-mile stretch that offers breathtaking views, from dramatic moorlands to historic coastal castles and quaint fishing villages, running from Filey to Helmsley.

After your adventures, relax at the quayside at the Cod and Lobster pub, renowned for its extensive seafood menu including its signature dish: a delicious pan-fried Cod Fillet served with a rich Lobster Bisque, homemade Potato Rosti and spinach, topped with a juicy Lobster tail or Claw.

Not to be overlooked, the Cod and Lobster also serve up mouth-watering hot and cold sandwiches alongside traditional pub favourites.

Finally, end your day with a visit to Dotty’s Vintage Tearoom, where you can enjoy a taste of yesteryear with their delightful homemade cheese or fruit scones, hearty toasties, and a comforting brew.

Staithes, while being acknowledged as one of the most picturesque villages, also boasts a rich history, exciting adventures, and first-rate cuisine.

JUST an hour away from Porto in Portugal lies a historic riverside city with a curious culinary tradition.

Amarante, perched on a bend of the Tamega river, has become widely known for its pastries — not because of their flavour or filling, but their shape.

The treats, named bolos de Sao Goncalo after the local patron saint, are baked to look like a particular part of the male anatomy.

Many believe they are a nod to Saint Goncalo’s success as a matchmaker, after he supposedly helped scores of single women and widows find husbands.

But the pastries’ story actually dates to medieval times.

As I tour the Sao Goncalo Church and Monastery, I learn that the shape is reminiscent of the ancient rituals and traditions related to prosperity and the fertility gods.

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Over time, the cakes gradually became associated with Saint Goncalo, and even though they were banned during Portugal’s dictatorship, which ended in 1974, they have since been embraced by the people of Amarante as a proud symbol of local identity.

People who are looking for love or hoping to start a family still visit the monastery today, reciting a hopeful prayer while clutching the rope belt on his statue.

Decorated inside with ornate gold leaf carvings and traditional Portuguese tiles, the beautiful 400-year-old building is worth a visit, regardless of your hopes for love.

But I was more interested in sampling the phallic pastries.

Confeitaria da Ponte, the city’s oldest bakery — so named because of its proximity to the bridge — is a great place to try the much- loved bakes.

Owner Joana Machado tells me that Amarante delicacies are generally made with lots of egg yolks.

This includes their house speciality — a moist, round, bite-sized confection coated with sugar that is also called a bolo de Sao Goncalo, although this one looks far less phallic.

“The recipes began in the monastery,” she explains. “Nuns used the egg whites to iron the clothes, so they used the yolks for baking.” The famous pastel de nata, or Portuguese custard tart, is another example of a “conventual” sweet (meaning originating in a convent).

At riverside cafe Casa dos bolos de Sao Goncalo, on Rua 31 de Janeiro, the classic penis cake has been given a modern update.

The choux pastry case is filled with pistachio cream and topped with a drizzle of green chocolate in an apparent nod to the Dubai chocolate trend that has recently taken the world by storm.

I can’t help but giggle as I slice a piece off the top of the golden brown treat.

Tasty souvenirs

The pastry is crunchy on the outside and chewy in the middle, while the pistachio filling adds a sweet, nutty flavour.

I can certainly see why these cheeky cakes have been popular for centuries!

You’ll want to dine on more than just sugary treats, though — and there are plenty of places to do that.

Northern Portuguese cuisine is more meaty than in the south, where seafood reigns supreme, and the regional speciality, slow-roasted veal, does not disappoint.

Lusitana is an excellent spot that was recommended to me by the staff at my hotel, Casa do Ribeirinho. Here, thick slices of tender, juicy meat are served with roasted potatoes and rice. The hearty meal is affordable, too.

Mains for two, a shared goat’s cheese starter and chocolate mousse for dessert with two glasses of wine costs €24 each (around £21).

For a slightly more upmarket dinner, try Ze da Calcada, which also serves regional dishes such as chicken with chestnuts, mushrooms, sweet potatoes and green beans, as well as local wines from the Douro valley.

Mains are typically €16 each (around £14).

Before you depart Amarante, be sure to visit the stall outside the Municipal Museum Amadeo de Souza Cardoso.

Dedicated to the modernist painter after whom it is named, it is currently closed for renovations.

But the stall is a great place to stock up on tasty souvenirs.

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It is laden with phallic cakes of all different sizes, some of which are crunchy like biscuits and individually wrapped with colourful ribbons.

More robust than the choux pastry variety, they make the perfect take-away treat for yourself — or a great tongue-in-cheek gift for someone who needs a bit of luck in the love department.

THERE is a beautiful train journey that claims to go to the “end of the world” and has some stunning views along the way.

Officially called El Tren del Fin de Mundo (The End of the World Train), the train is a historic steam railway that takes passengers on a journey through Tierra del Fuego National Park in Argentina.

In fact, the railway is considered the southernmost one in the world.

And the rather morbid name comes from the it’s original purpose as a prison train.

It was built back in the early 20th century and used to transport inmates to collect timber and a number of other building materials from the forest.

They would then take these materials to construct a prison and settlement.

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But by 1947 the railway closed as a result of the prison closing.

Then in 1994, a four mile section of the track was rebuilt and opened as a tourist attraction.

Today, visitors can now ride along the railway as a sightseeing experience of Patagonia, as well as learn about the history of the train line.

The ‘End of the World Station’ is located around five miles from Ushuaia, which is where the journey begins.

Then, on the journey, passengers can see the Pipo River, the Macarena Waterfall and the ‘tree cemetery’ – an area that features a number of the stumps that were left behind by the prison inmates.

When the train crosses the Pipo River, it goes over Puente Quemado (Burned Bridge), which features the wooden remains of the old bridge beneath the newer tracks.

It then stops at La Macarena Station, where passengers can get off the train to look at the cascading waterfall and learn about the local people called Yamana.

The train journey then ends at the National Park Station, where passengers can get off and venture into Tierra del Feugo National Park.

The park entrance fee is separate to the price of the train journey, and it costs around £20.11 to enter.

On board the train, there are a number of different classes, including ‘Tourist’.

In these carriages, there are comfortable seats and large windows and audio commentary is available in multiple languages for passengers to learn about the history of the region, as well as the train.

In Premium Service, passengers get priority boarding, heated cars, food and even exclusive train souvenirs.

Passengers in this class can also asked for a private tour of the railway workshops, where they will learn about the behind-the-scenes work that keeps the train running.

If on the train at 9:30am, there is a breakfast menu with bread, croissants, yoghurt and mixed nuts.

At midday and 3pm, there is a lunch menu with dishes including lamb casserole, chicken casserole, spinach and ricotta cannelloni, pizza and empanadas.

A children’s menu is also available.

For something really special, there is a VIP service as well, where passengers receive a three-course menu and an exclusive access experience.

One recent visitor said: “This was really cool, we’d seen some of the best scenery in the world and now we were riding a miniature train to the End of the World – and I lived to tell the tale!

“There was a stop at a pretty waterfall and some funny antics by the local convicts who clearly had been left behind by the penal colony.

“I thought this was a cool thing to do, really enjoyed it.”

Another added: “A magical experience like straight out of a Christmas story, we went [when] everything was snowy beautiful [and] met wild horses on the visit.

Tickets cost around £34.63 per adult and £17.32 per child between four and 12-years-old.

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Christmas day trips could be taking families to some of the most iconic locations, as experts share the top festive itineraries less than two hours from the UK

As the festive season approaches, families could be jetting off to Europe for a Christmas adventure without even needing to book time off work or splurge on hotel stays, thanks to extreme day tripping. This travel trend sees holidaymakers spending 24 hours or less in a destination before heading back home.

Travel gurus at Iglu Cruise have pinpointed three of the top European destinations for yuletide celebrations, all within two hours by plane or train from London, and they’ve even crafted the perfect itinerary to make the most of your Christmas escape.

Cologne, Germany

This captivating city is home to some of the world’s most famous Christmas markets, and it’s just an hour and 20 minutes by plane from London. The experts suggest kicking off the day exploring Cologne’s museums, such as Museum Ludwig and the Fina Frangrace Museum.

Next, pop over to Ehrenfeld for a quick cafe stop and an afternoon Kölsch before embarking on a boat tour along the Rhine River to soak up the Christmas magic of Cologne.

Come evening, Heinzels Christmas Market comes alive with ice skating, shopping and the KölnTriangle observation deck offering stunning views of Cologne’s illuminated cathedral and twinkling Christmas lights.

Basel, Switzerland

Just an hour and 40 minutes away from London by plane, this snow-dusted fairytale town awaits, boasting a charming medieval old town that serves as the ideal starting point for your extreme day trip.

From the old town, visitors can admire the beautifully decorated courtyards, called “Magische Höfe” or “Magical Courtyards”. The city hall courtyard features a Wish Book where guests can record their Christmas wishes.

The experts then recommend visiting the Barfüsserplatz Christmas Market to sample Swiss cheese or the famous local gingerbread biscuit, followed by Christmas shopping and mulled wine from the 13-metre high Christmas Pyramid.

There’s also a free Advent production at Basel Theatre worth catching. These daily performances, running from 1st to 23rd December at 5:00 PM, feature a varied programme of small opera, drama and ballet productions.

During these dates visitors can also climb St Martin’s Tower for a small fee to enjoy a bird’s eye view of the market and the illuminated old town.

Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Just an hour and 10 minutes’ flight from London brings you to Amsterdam, where you can begin your day trip admiring the city’s iconic canals and bridges in the Jordaan district whilst enjoying breakfast.

The Museum Quarter provides plenty to occupy your morning before heading to the Winter Paradise RAI festival, where you’ll discover indoor and outdoor ice rinks, a Ferris wheel, live music, Dutch waffles and cosy winter bars.

Amsterdam’s Light Festival also transforms the city at this time of year, and the experts suggest taking an evening cruise for the best views as the spectacular decorations shimmer across the water.

Marburg, Germany. It’s a fairytale city, not only because of the hilltop castle that overlooks its cobbled streets and half-timbered houses, but also because this is where the Grimm brothers once lived and studied, starting the collection of folklore stories that would eventually become their famous anthology of fairytales. Throughout the city, sculptures – some perched in improbable places – pay homage to this past, forming a mile-long route known as the Grimm Path. It’s very much like a treasure hunt.

But on my visit to Marburg, I had a different type of treasure hunt in mind and, once done with enchanted mirrors and kissy-lipped frogs, headed straight for the SecondHand by DRK (Deutsches Rotes Kreuz – the German Red Cross) to scout for pre-owned items.

Whereas once there was a stigma to buying secondhand, nowadays it’s on trend. “Thrifted” has been tagged more than 7m times on Instagram, and accounts such as @charity_shop_life and @my.thrifted.abode have tens of thousands of followers. According to Booking.com’s 2025 travel predictions, “Thrift shopping and vintage stores are becoming a core part of the travel experience, with 73% of travellers having already purchased secondhand items while abroad”. Google data also shows that searches for destination-specific secondhand shopping – “thrifting in Berlin” or “vintage markets in Stockholm”, for example – have skyrocketed.

Guides and tour operators haven’t been slow to jump on board either – for £200, Fashion Tours London will guide you around the capital’s secondhand stores for a whole day, while Red Shed Vintage Tours and Gold Crest will set you loose on a variety of French brocantes (flea markets).

But while curated tours suit some, for me it would dampen the thrill of exploring on my own. There is bounty almost everywhere, of course, but I’ve found France great for rustic kitchen and homewares, Madrid a good hunting ground for vintage designer accessories, while in Venice it’s glassware (there’s a tiny charity shop attached to a church where I almost always find genuine pre-loved Murano glass).

The appeal of a tour also depends on how you feel about rummaging with others in tow. For me, it’s a bit like skiing: you don’t want to stop others from having a good time, but nor do you want them to affect your good time. Personally, when I’m in treasure-hunting mode, I prefer being alone, without someone sighing at my shoulder. I’ll just meet you at the bar later and reveal my finds, OK? “You’re a bit like Oscar the Grouch in the Muppets,” observed one friend. “Happiest alone in the bin.” Well, quite.

Whatever your MO, it always helps to do some research before you go – get acquainted with the names of the charity shops at your destination; look for Instagram accounts specialising in vintage. Use Google to search for pop-ups such as kilo sales, and in France use brocabrac.fr to look for brocantes calendars in the area you’re visiting – they generally move from location to location each weekend. This worked nicely for me in the summer, when the brass swans I’d been eyeing up one Sunday were still available the following week on the same stall – but in the next town.

Google Lens can be helpful, too, in determining whether the item you’ve found is genuine or worth the price being asked. Towns with an ageing population, such as Kraków and Léon, tend to have the best bargains, while capital cities and those with a university will probably have higher prices, due to the number of avid shoppers. And generally speaking, the farther out of town you travel, the better the bargains will be. I also wander the streets surrounding weekend markets as residents often capitalise on the passing footfall to set up their own little garage sales.

I’ve been buying secondhand since my early teens and it still gives me a dopamine hit: in Germany I stumbled across an ostrich leather handbag for €2, right next to a synthetic Primark one tagged €3.50; in Romania I unearthed a silk Hermès scarf in a bin full of polyester ones; and in Greece I sifted through shelves of books to find a volume of beautiful botanical drawings. An angry rooster jug I picked up for 100 krone (£12) at a market in Copenhagen remains one of my most beloved purchases. Only recently did I discover he was made in Czechoslovakia in the 1930s and that others like him have sold for close to £200 on Etsy (although there’s no way I’m ever selling mine).

One of the great delights of buying secondhand abroad is that you’ll uncover items not readily found at home and they make the best souvenirs. The vintage stoneware escargot dishes I nabbed in a market near Biarritz, for example, that now sit on my dresser holding my rings, remind me of that trip daily. I love, also, the interactions that such purchases spark. People on market stalls or in small shops tend to be far more engaging than staff in big chains and this often leads to interesting chats and fun exchanges.

“Non, non, ce n’est pas pour toi!” shrieked a woman, laughingly, at a flea market in Nantes, as I peered closely (too closely, in retrospect) at a small statue, trying to make sense of it, before realising it graphically depicted a sex act. “German,” scoffed the man on the stall in Copenhagen, as I examined a mustard pot in the form of a boy squatting with his pants down (the mustard was dispensed via his bottom).

Of course, it’s very easy to get carried away, and you need to be mindful of what you can pack and carry. On a girls’ weekend in Lisbon a few years ago, the Humana secondhand stores were so full of gems that some serious sitting on suitcases was required for the return journey – but, honestly, who in their right mind would leave an utterly perfect, €10 camel cashmere coat behind? Or a pair of Italian leather boots that actually fit?

The really impossible items – furniture, huge mirrors and ornate frames – make me sad because even I have to admit there’s no way that chaise longue or antique dressing table can be squeezed into my bag (and where shipping is available, it tends to be from slicker operations with consequently higher prices). It may well be time for a driving holiday – in a lorry. And I doubt I’m the only one with such ideas: on a recent stay at a campsite in France, the noticeboard listed a week’s worth of local brocantes and vides-greniers (“empty attics” or car boot sales).

As for the DRK in Marburg? Well, I didn’t strike gold on my own behalf – but I did for someone else. A few years ago, while travelling, I met an Australian woman as keen on secondhand shopping as I am. We’ve stayed in touch and she mentioned recently how much she likes Boden prints. Guess what was hiding on the rails? A blouse in a vibrant green pattern, tick; silk, tick; size, tick; one parcel winging its way to Oz, tick. Proof that thrifting isn’t just good for the planet and addictively fun – it’s a great way to make friends, too.

One Reddit user said they had visited markets in Germany, Austria, the Czech Republic, Finland, and Estonia last winter, and the experience soon began to lose its sheen.

Visiting a Christmas market is a delightful festive tradition for many. The ambience and festivity make them a great way to get into the seasonal spirit, and there’s a chance of finding some unique Christmas gifts you wouldn’t spot elsewhere.

But there can be too much of a good thing, as one Reddit user discovered when they visited eight different markets across Europe last winter. Posting on the social media site, the user said they had visited markets in Germany, Austria, the Czech Republic, Finland, and Estonia, and the experience soon began to lose its sheen.

They wrote: “When I visited more than two or three markets in a short time (weekend) they all started to blur together really quickly. Each market had its own things, like different themes, food, and decorations, but after a few markets, it became hard to remember what things were in which city.

“All the markets started to feel repetitive, like a general ‘winter/Christmas market’ packed with people rather than something new and interesting in each location.”

They added they were disappointed to see local, handmade products were often drowned out by mass-produced goods. Concluding, they said they would still be visiting some Christmas markets this year, but would spread out their visits, and wouldn’t go to as many.

“I don’t regret my travel decisions – mainly because the markets were not the main point of my travels,” they said. “But if they were, I would be, just because it turns into one big blur so easily.

“So I will definitely recommend checking out some Christmas market or two if they’re your thing, just spend a little bit more time there to actually translate and understand all the cool local products they have.”

Commenters were mixed in their reactions, with some agreeing, but others saying they loved visiting Christmas markets in the lead-up to the big day.

One wrote: “I think going to one Christmas market – either here at home or somewhere else – per year can be charming, but to be honest, the whole thing has become so industrialised that I’m pretty done even after one. But I see it as more of an experience and usually don’t want to buy much.

“Like part of the charm is being outside, getting rosy cheeks, dipping in somewhere for a cappuccino or hot chocolate, or having eiswein, being with friends and not having structure or plans. Goes honestly for outdoor markets not at Christmas time, also, but there is something unique and charming at Christmas. It is sad about the squeezing out of real artisans.”

Another said: “Visiting too many Christmas markets quickly can really drain the experience and make them blur together tbh. It is actually smart to focus on one or two. I’d also support local artisans over mass produced souvenirs to keep the culture and quality alive.”

But a third said: “I’ve been to lots of Christmas markets with nice local food, crafts and arts that you can’t easily find elsewhere. And even if it is stuff you can find elsewhere, often the ambience is often quite nice. Talking about the real deal, German markets, and the best of Dutch markets; many other countries have markets which are fake touristy imitations of the real deal.”

And another said: “I love the markets, and go to several for the vibe and the food and the gluhwein. German village markets are fantastic.”

We checked in to this stylish new hotel in west London and discovered stunning interiors, a tranquil garden and innovative drinks at the bar

A few minutes’ walk away from bustling Earls Court Road, past quiet cobbled mews, is Templeton Garden, chic European hotel group Miiro’s latest opening, and arguably London’s most stylish new hotel.

A former townhouse, its grand white-pillared entrance opens up into what looks like an interiors Pinterest board brought to life, an elegant colour palette of creams, beiges and rusts, with a light and airy lounge area leading onto a beautiful private garden out the back – a rare find in central London – with a terrace for taking lunch or drinks.

Stay between 17 November-24 December and get access to the hotel’s Ribbon Room, a Santa’s grotto stocked with beautiful papers and ribbons to wrap your finds from your Christmas shopping expedition like a pro, accompanied by a hot buttered Brugal cider, from Sprout, the hotel’s bar.

The rooms at Templeton Garden

The complimentary colour palette continues to the 156 bedrooms, which our Junior Suite was elegant and understated with soft plaster-pink walls and lots of fabric textures, and immediately made us want to redecorate ours at home. A pop of colour comes from the dark red tiled shower space in the bathroom, complete with marble bath, vintage-style brass fittings and Le Labo Santal 33 products. Sleeping here under the canopy bed feels special yet still homely – a tricky balance to get right.

The food and drink at Templeton Garden

Evenings at Templeton Garden begin with a drink at Sprout, lined with hand-painted wallpaper and low velvet seats arranged around lamp-lit tables, with a stunning gold oak leaf light fitting overhead.

The most interesting thing about this bar, however, is the drinks list. The Market Stall Menu features innovative cocktail creations using ingredients commonly found in the back of your cupboard, such as a Marmitini, Red Onion Manhattan and Anchovy Gimlet. The Specials Menu, meanwhile, uses seasonal fruit and vegetables, and changes regularly depending on what’s available.

Templeton Garden

From £290 per night

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A stylish new hideaway in London’s Earl’s Court.

We opted for the Sweet Pea Spritz, made, we were told, by separating the peas from their pods, roasting the pods, blending them both back together to make a cordial, then mixing them with vodka and sparkling wine. Fresh and slightly sweet, it was like nothing we’d ever tried before, and completely delicious.

It was then on to dinner at Pippin’s restaurant, where the focus is again on seasonal ingredients with lots of fresh herbs from the garden. The spring vegetable salad was a colourful plate of crunchy pickled veg and leaves atop a tangy cheddar emulsion, while for mains, the catch of the day was a delicious crispy-skinned stone bass paired with a herby, zingy chimichurri.

How much does it cost to stay at Templeton Garden?

Rooms at Templeton Garden start from £290 per night.

Spain remains the UK’s No.1 holiday destination

Holidaymakers jetting off to Spain could be hit with a hefty price hike under new proposals. This comes in the wake of calls to ramp up the tourist tax for visitors heading to the Balearic islands.

The Balearic archipelago consists of four main islands: Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza, and Formentera, along with the smaller island of Cabrera and around 150 other minor islets. At present, Brits holidaying in Majorca, Ibiza and Menorca are subject to a charge based on the quality of their accommodation and the time of their visit.

In peak season, tourists fork out €4 (£3.50) per person each night in a five-star hotel, €3 in mid-range digs, €2 for budget stays, and €1 in hostels. These rates plummet by 75 per cent during off-peak periods.

Approximately 18 million Brits flock to Spain annually, making it our top holiday hotspot. It’s estimated that 27 per cent – nearly five million – of these travellers head to the Balearics, so any price alteration would have a significant impact.

One of Spain’s largest trade unions, the Workers’ Commission, is advocating for an increase in this rate. They’ve proposed a steep rise in this tax to €15 (£13) per person, per night in July and August.

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Sky News reports that this would mean four adults staying at a luxury resort for a fortnight would shell out €840 (£736) in taxes during the summer peak, a substantial leap from the current €224 (£196) and an overall increase of £540.

Not only is this expected to generate revenue for the Government, but it is also hoped that it would curb the influx of visitors. The islands have long been grappling with the issue of overtourism, which has sparked numerous protests in recent years.

Many argue that it has driven locals away due to skyrocketing housing costs and a shortage of living space as many flats are transformed into AirBnbs. Others bemoan the negative social impact caused by tourists.

The charming market town in Leicestershire, England, is surrounded by beautiful countryside and is home to a wealth of independent boutiques, spas and eateries

The UK is a treasure trove of quaint villages and towns, boasting everything from idyllic cobbled streets nestled in rolling hills to cliffside hamlets adorned with white washed houses. One such gem is Market Harborough in Leicester.

Once a part of the Rockingham Forest – a mediaeval Royal hunting forest – it has now transformed into a delightful market town brimming with rich history and stunning countryside.

The town centre is a haven for independent boutiques, spas and eateries, making it an ideal spot for a day out.

Among the many attractions around Market Harborough, the Foxton Locks stand out.

These locks are the steepest and longest in the UK, enabling canal boats to navigate up and down a 75-foot hill through the Leicestershire countryside, reports the Express.

The canal provides a picturesque autumnal walk along the water as you navigate the locks and watch the boats glide by.

With over 5,000 boats traversing the locks annually, there’s always something to see. If your walk leaves you peckish or parched, why not drop into one of the many canalside cafes or pubs?

The Foxton Locks Inn is a quintessential traditional pub offering home cooked food, local ales, a cosy interior, and even a covered terrace for dining while enjoying views of the canal.

Don’t miss out on Rockingham Castle, a truly magnificent Tudor-era building perched atop a hill with panoramic views across five counties.

The castle, tucked away within 12 acres of manicured and wild gardens, boasts breathtaking views over the countryside. However, it’s worth noting that the castle only opens its doors to visitors on Sundays and Bank Holiday Mondays from Easter until September, and also on Tuesdays from June.

If you prefer to stay within the village and have a penchant for history, then a visit to the Old Grammar School is a must.

Established in 1607 by Robert Smyth, the Grammar school was ingeniously constructed on posts in the town centre, allowing the market to carry on beneath it.

A grotto visit can offer so much more than just meeting the man in red. Many Santa’s grottos now include a range of activities and experiences in the ticket price, giving you a full day of festive family fun

Meeting Father Christmas is essential in the lead-up to the festive period. However, many families want a grotto visit that offers far more than simply handing over their Christmas list.

Many Santa experiences now feature a variety of activities included in the admission cost, providing families with an entire day of seasonal entertainment.

Countless grottos and Christmas attractions have emerged in recent years, offering distinctive and unforgettable experiences. Here’s a summary of some of the most exciting ways to meet Santa, whether aboard a festive train or within a grotto in a historic castle.

The Polar Express Train Ride

Millennial mums and dads who remember watching the 2004 film The Polar Express will undoubtedly love this immersive seasonal experience as much as their kids. Don your Christmas pyjamas and climb aboard the themed train where you’ll be welcomed by staff dressed as characters from the film, such as the Conductor.

As the train, adorned with Christmas decorations, departs the platform, there will be interactive performances, festive treats, and more to savour onboard. And just like in the picture, Santa will stop by each youngster on the train to present them with a silver bell, showing that they still believe.

The Polar Express proved enormously successful in 2024, with one reviewer who experienced the London Euston service commenting: “We had the best experience from start to finish last year, the show was so interactive and there was never a dull moment”.

Locations: London Euston, South Devon Railway, Spa Valley Railway, Kent and Wensleydale Railway, Yorkshire

Prices: From £59.95 per person

Lapland UK

Lapland UK is a ‘fully-immersive’ Christmas experience that takes families on a magical four-hour journey through an enchanted forest. Along the way, you’ll encounter numerous elves and partake in activities ranging from a visit to the Lapland Toy Factory to Little Rudi’s Stables, where you can meet the reindeer.

A white Christmas is always guaranteed at Lapland UK, courtesy of its snow machines, offering an experience as close as possible to a trip to the North Pole without boarding a flight. There’s ice skating, festive shows, and much more to explore, and naturally, your adventure concludes with a visit to Father Christmas and a cherished keepsake photo.

Since 2007, Lapland UK has been based in Ascot, and this year it’s also launching in Manchester, spreading the festive cheer to even more people.

Locations: Whitmoor Forest, Ascot, and Capesthorne Hall, Manchester

Prices: From £75 per person

Hamleys

Hamleys, self-described as the world’s largest and oldest toy shop, is the ideal place to meet Santa and gather some inspiration for your Christmas shopping. The Regent Street store is adorned with Christmas lights for the festive season, going all out with glittering decorations, and features six floors of toys to peruse.

Once your children have compiled their Christmas list, they can visit Santa in his Hamleys grotto and will receive a special gift bag to take home.

Location: Hamleys, Regent Street, London

Prices: Starting from £65 for a group of three (one adult and two children, or two adults and one child)

Christmas at Warwick Castle

The historic Warwick Castle is set to host Christmas at the Castle. Here, youngsters will not only get to meet Santa but also enjoy a cosy storytime session with him.

The castle will be adorned with festive decorations and lights. Besides meeting Santa, families can enjoy an ice rink, a festive food and drink village, and a brand-new Christmas light trail within the grounds.

There are also Santa Sleepover packages on offer where you can stay at the castle and enjoy an elf wake-up call, evening entertainment, and more.

Location: Warwick Castle, Warwickshire

Prices: Daytime entry plus stories with Santa starting from £29 per person, ice skating from £8pp, light trail from £17pp

Eden Project

The Eden Project’s Biomes will be illuminated for the festive season, with Father Christmas making a visit to the Cornwall-based attraction. Visitors to the unique botanical gardens will be treated to an immersive experience, culminating in a visit to Santa and a special keepsake to take home.

On selected dates, the park will extend its opening hours, allowing visitors to witness its transformation into a twinkling winter wonderland. Each Biome will offer its own festive experience; for instance, the Mediterranean Biome will feature a light show and festive music.

Additionally, there will be a Christmassy undercover ice rink, and festive food available for purchase in the cafes.

Location: Par, Cornwall

Prices: Visits to Father Christmas start from £16 per person, light trail from £5.50pp, ice skating from £11 per adult. Entry to the Eden Project for adults starts from £38, children from £12, under-fives go free

Father Christmas at London Zoo

Why not mix a trip to Santa’s grotto with a day at the zoo for the ultimate Christmas-themed family day out?

London Zoo offers a variety of packages for those wanting to meet Santa. Little ones can simply enjoy some Christmas crafts before their meet, or you can upgrade to a deluxe package which includes an immersive quest in the attraction’s new ZooTown play area.

You can also opt for the Meet Santa VIP Breakfast, which allows you to enter the zoo at 8am before normal opening, with a special tour before the crowds arrive.

Location: London Zoo, Regent’s Park, London

Prices: Starting from £18.50 per child

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The new system will gradually be introduced as part of an upgrade to border control operations at airports across the Schengen area, including Spain, Italy, Greece, and more

Tenerife South, a holiday hotspot that welcomes around three million Brits each year, has started rolling out a new system for some travellers. The new European Union Entry/Exit System (EES) is being introduced, which could require non-EU citizens to register their biometric data, including face photographs and fingerprint scans, at the border.

The scheme is being launched across many airports in the Schengen area to help alleviate long queues at passport control. According to Spain’s Interior Ministry, the EES will be gradually implemented across the region, but won’t be fully operational until April 10, 2026.

So far, the Spanish Ministry has allocated 83 million euros to enhance border checkpoints at all Spanish airports. Meanwhile, the National Police will continue to manage many border control duties, with the Guardia Civil overseeing customs operations.

The EES was launched at the beginning of October across participating countries. The data collected will be used to create a digital record linked to each traveller’s passport, with the primary goal of the new system being to streamline the border process.

Brits jetting off to Tenerife are being urged to get to the airport earlier than usual to allow for extra processing time. While the new system is designed to speed things up, it might take a while for both staff and passengers to get used to it during the initial stages.

All the countries that use EES

Spain is one of the many countries that has implemented EES. Currently, the following countries will have the new changes applied to them:

• Austria
• Belgium
• Bulgaria
• Croatia
• Czechia
• Denmark
• Estonia
• Finland
• France
• Germany
• Greece
• Hungary
• Iceland
• Italy
• Latvia
• Liechtenstein
• Lithuania
• Luxembourg
• Malta
• Netherlands
• Norway
• Poland
• Portugal
• Romania
• Slovakia
• Slovenia
• Spain
• Sweden
• Switzerland

Most travellers won’t see the changes immediately, with only a small number expected to go through a fully digitised process while it’s still being rolled out. It’s understood that for the first six months of the scheme, manual passport stamping will continue alongside EES registration across the Schengen area.