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A UK train line will be closed for three days this weekend as the station undergoes major works.

Travellers are advised to plan their journeys in advance as there will be no trains running on the busy West Midlands line.

Between May 29 and May 31, there will be no trains running between Birmingham New Street and Lichfield Trent Valley Station.

Network Rail has announced that the closures will be in place to allow for the installation of a new viaduct.

The planned work will take place over the weekend and services are expected to return to normal on Monday, June 1.

For those travelling southbound on the Cross City line, services will be continuing as normal between Birmingham New Street and Redditch/Bromsgrove.

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The “complex” installation work will also affect services between Birmingham New Street and Tame Bridge Parkway, to ensure all works are carried out safely.

Passengers affected by the disruption will be able to travel on rail replacement buses, running from Birmingham New Street to both Lichfield Trent Valley and Tame Bridge Parkway

For those travelling to Rugeley Trent Valley, the services will be diverted and journeys are expected to take longer than usual, so passengers are advised to allow extra time for possible delays.

The major works comprise of the installation of a 150-metre-long viaduct, located near the new Curzon Street Station, that will transport HS2 trains over an existing Victorian viaduct between Duddeston and New Street.

Director for On Network Works at Network Rail and HS2, Patrick Crawley, said: “We’re reminding passengers to plan ahead for a three-day closure on the Cross City line between Birmingham and Lichfield to enable the safe installation of a new HS2 viaduct over the existing railway.

“This is a significant milestone in the delivery of HS2 at Curzon Street, and while there will be some disruption, we’ve worked closely with partners to keep people moving and minimise the impact as much as possible.”

Customer experience director for West Midlands Railway, Jonny Wiseman, added: “We want to thank passengers for their patience while this major piece of engineering work is carried out and the northern section of the Cross City Line is closed.

“Rail replacement buses will be running during the closure, and passengers are encouraged to check their travel before setting out.”

A POPULAR aquapark is reopening for the summer – and it’s coming with a brand new attraction.

Families will be able to enjoy the thrill-seeking ride alongside other water activities

Hangloose Adventure Bluewater, based at Bluewater Shopping Centre in Kent, has reopened for the summer season with a new towering attraction – a six-meter mega slide.

Named ‘El Jefe’ – the boss in Spanish- the super slide marks the latest addition to the park’s floating inflatable course.

Families can now navigate over 15 obstacles, climb balance beams, and complete the course on ‘El Jefe’, which will see them soar into the water below.

Described as an ‘exhilarating experience’ by the park, children as young as seven will be able to take part – as long as they reach the minimum height requirement of 1.2 meters.

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Alongside the relaunch of the aqua park, Hangloose Adventure is also introducing a Thursday-only zipline offer.

Those who book a zipline ride will be able to have a second ride for free on the same day, with the promotion running until June 25.

The water park operates for seven days a week during the summer season, from 10am to 5pm.

Located in The Domes, Greenhithe, the park has been highly rated online.

The area also features a host of big attractions, including England’s longest zipline, Europe’s biggest swing, and the UK’s only outdoor indoor skydive tunnel.

For your chance to try out ‘El Jefe’ in person, a day out at the waterpark costs just £67 for a family of four.

A BUDGET train operator has launched a brand new rail service.

From this week, travellers can take a cross-border train journeys for under £30.

Lumo’s new low-cost journeys between London and Scotland have launched this week, connecting travellers between London Euston and Stirling.

Customers can travel on this 300 mile train route for only £29.90 per person, with journeys scheduled multiple times a day.

Stirling council leader, Cllr Susan McGill, said: “The sight of the first blue Lumo train in Stirling is an exciting moment, and we will continue to work closely with Lumo to ensure the new service is a success and delivers lasting benefits for everyone across the region.”

The new route also includes a handy connection between London and Preston, Lancashire, for just £23.90, and between Preston and Stirling for £14.90.

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Four direct return journeys will take place between Stirling and London Euston every day, with a fifth service running between Preston and London.

Lumo already runs a budget-friendly passenger train along the East Coast Main Line, connecting travellers between London King’s Cross, the North East of England and Edinburgh.

This new west coast route will call at Milton Keynes, Nuneaton, Crewe, Carlisle, Lockerbie, Motherwell, Whifflet, Greenfaulds and Larbert.

For Scottish towns Whifflet, Greenfaulds and Larbert, this is the first ever direct rail connection to London.

Graeme Cook, rail director for Transport Scotland, said: “Lumo’s new Stirling to London route is a very welcome addition to cross-border services which will provide wider economic and connectivity benefits to Scotland.

“The new services will not only boost tourism and hospitality for Stirling and the Forth Valley, but also increase connectivity by now providing customers from Whifflet, Greenfaulds and Larbert with direct access to rail connections on the West Coast Main Line and London.”

The train service will run from Monday, May 25, with the full timetable set to be available in July.

AN abandoned English train station has been revamped with a £50,000 upgrade.

After years of disrepair, the 19th century station has now transformed into a luxury retreat that is opento the public.

Rowden Mill Station in North Herefordshire has been renovated into a vintage-inspired hotel, offering the perfect retreat for keen trainspotters.

Cecilia Chavez-Brandon and husband Paul Kirwan took on this dream renovation project in 2017, paying £395,000 for the 2.7 acre site that had been abandoned since the 1950s.

The site was primarily used for moving injured soldiers to field hospitals during the war and transporting livestock, losing its appeal as cars became more popular in the 1950s.

Inside were original buildings and a set of train tracks, which they have modernised into an experience that transports visitors back to the 1950s and 1960s.

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To add to the vintage feel, they bought an 18ft inspection saloon coach, coated with British Railway livery for historic railway fans.

Cecilia told SWNS: “It was not until the 1980s that the former owners found the station and bought it from the farmers.

“They built the rail track back. We arrived after they had been here 32 years and helped modernise it.

“They restored the station building and the parcel office and converted it into accommodation rather than a station.

“The booking office is now the kitchen, the waiting room is now the lounge. The gentleman’s toilet is now a full bathroom.

“The parcel office is a separate building and we converted it and put central heating in and new carpets. We turned that into a full studio with an ensuite.”

A steady stream of visitors can look around the renovated station, which has transformed ladies’ waiting areas into main bedrooms and carriages into accommodations.

Tourists can pay £260 per night to enjoy a luxurious stay overlooking the countryside in their renovated coaches fitted with an en suite and heating.

The main station building also has accommodation at £430 for two nights, or the Parcel Office studio at £220 for two nights.

Cecilia said: “We have a parcel office with a studio for two on the main platform. For anyone staying here, it’s like waking up in a railway station from the 1950s and 60s.”

The couple also bought an original 20-tonne brake van back in 2018 to create another luxury accommodation for the site.

Maintaining this beloved location has become a career for the couple: “We didn’t really start out as railway buffs but you obviously become one. It’s like going down a rabbit hole.

“You end up being a whole network of railway people and it’s really something amazing.

“The very first guest arrived in September 2017 and they came with books and were clear railway buffs and knew more about the branch line than we did at the time.

“In terms of guests we obviously have the railway buffs, even children with technical knowledge. We have station masters and train drivers – we get quite a range of fans.

“The whole site is great. It’s so peaceful, with gorgeous views and our other passion is nature. We’ve got our own meadows, hedgerows and wildlife ponds.”

AN enormous indoor adventure park, fitted with inflatable obstacle courses and thrilling activities, has shut down with immediate effect.

The family-friendly attraction has been a hit with the community for over six years, welcoming 400,000 visitors during that time.

Ultimate Warriors, formerly Ninja Warrior UK, in Gloucester, shut down earlier this month.

This comes after the adventure park was plunged into administration, only a year after leaving the national Ninja Warrior group.

Ultimate Warriors hoped to sell the business, exploring every option to remain open.

Following a sale falling through last minute, they had no option but to close, nearly seven years after it opened in October 2019.

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Only recently, Ultimate Warriors had refreshed its equipment and activities, running independently as a family-run business.

Ultimate Warriors Gloucester said on Facebook: “After six and a half wonderful years, it is with great sadness that we announce Ultimate Warriors has entered administration and has closed its doors.

“We explored every possible option to keep our much-loved venue open. Unfortunately, despite strong interest, we are devastated to have a sale fall through at the last minute.

“As a small business, we simply do not have the financial reserves to continue operating in such uncertain economic conditions, even with the incredible support and feedback we have received from our guests over the years.”

Ultimate Warriors was formerly part of the Ninja Warrior UK franchise, which owns 16 adventure parks across the UK, all based on the hit ITV show.

Similar to the Ninja Warrior UK set up, Ultimate Warriors in Gloucester had a variety of activities, including monkey bars, slides and climbing walls.

Now, the Ultimate Warriors team is supporting its staff get new jobs, including reaching out to Airhop Gloucester to possibly accommodate them.

Ultimate Warriors Gloucester said: “To everyone who visited us, celebrated with us, worked with us, or supported us along the way – thank you. Your support, loyalty, and memories will stay with us forever.”

A POPULAR UK coastal path is set to close for months this summer.

It’s been confirmed that the scenic walking route will be out of use while essential repairs are made.

The Langstone Coastal Path, located behind Farlington Marshes near Portsmouth, is a beloved walking and cycling trail that passes through natural beauty spots and coastal towns.

But the public will not have access to the Hampshire footpath this summer while coastal erosion repairs are underway.

The nature-packed hiking trail, which boasts a 23km route that loops around the Langstone Harbour, will be closed over the summer months from May 26 until September.

This will allow for refurbishments to be done to areas of the sea wall damaged by coastal erosion, in order for the area and its wildlife to remain protected.

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The National Highways project means that a diversion will be put in place while the works are in progress. This will run along Eastern Road and Havant Road.

Katarina Saradinova, head of scheme delivery for the South East region, told The Portsmouth News: “This is a beautiful location, and our work will help protect the coastline, wildlife and surrounding environment for future generations.

“We understand the diversion route will lead visitors away from the scenic nature reserve, but these closures are essential to allow repairs to the sea wall, damaged by coastal erosion, to be carried out safely. Unauthorised access could also disrupt the construction schedule,” she added.

Efforts have also been made to ensure that the timing of the works disrupts wildlife habitats as little as possible.

The summer project has been planned in order to avoid disturbing the nesting period of overwintering birds in the area.

While access will still be available from the western entrance of Farlington Marshes, the path between Farlington Marshes car park and Chalk Dock Lake car park will be off limits.

The Chalk Dock Lake car park will also be closed.

THE UK’S tallest spinning pendulum ride has officially launched at Blackpool Pleasure Beach, and I was lucky enough to climb aboard before it opened to the public.

Called Aviktas, the £9million attraction made its debut on 21 May after more than a year under construction.

Spinning riders 138ft in the air, it is the biggest gyro-swing in the UK — nearly double the height of the previous record-holder, Maelstrom at Drayton Manor, Staffs, which tops out at 74ft.

The ride has been built on the former site of the Bowladrome, a popular arcade and bowling spot that had been part of the Blackpool seafront since the 1960s before closing last year.

Now that space is home to four enormous legs, each weighing 16 tons, which anchor Aviktas’s towering structure.

At the end of a swinging arm sits a circular gondola, where 40 riders are strapped into outward-facing seats.

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From there, the pendulum swings up to 120 degrees over the Blackpool coastline.

So what did it actually feel like to ride?

Aviktas was far more intense than I was expecting.

As you are strapped in, a thumping soundtrack composed especially for the ride pumps out from all directions, helping to build the suspense.

But what sets Aviktas apart is the lack of over-the-shoulder restraints — the only thing holding you in here is a lap bar, which really ramps up the fear factor.

Before you know it, the floor below you drops to leave your feet dangling, and the swinging begins.

It is gentle at first, but as each swing climbs higher than the last, so does the G-force — with the rush of air pushing your cheeks back as you plummet between arcs.

But the best bit comes right at the top.

For a few seconds at the peak of each swing, you feel weightless, as if floating in mid-air, while the crowds stare up at you from below.

Then you whoosh back down and do it all again on the other side.

It is terrifying but exhilarating — made worthwhile by the views, which offer glimpses for miles down the coast, right down the promenade to Blackpool Tower and beyond.

This is a proper stomach-churner but, if you are anything like me, you will be eagerly queueing up to ride it again before your feet hit the ground.

It is surely the best ride of its type in the UK right now — but it is also just one of many reasons to head to the Lancashire coast this summer.

The new ride arrives during a big year for Pleasure Beach, which celebrates its 130th anniversary as the UK’s oldest amusement park, having first welcomed visitors in 1896.

It has remained family-owned ever since.

Earlier this year, it was named one of the world’s best theme parks by Tripadvisor, the only UK park to make the top ten.

Last season saw the revamp of Launch Pad (formerly Ice Blast), and River Caves is also on the list for an overhaul soon.

What is more, the Pleasure Beach is one of the cheaper big theme-park days out in the country, with standard prices starting from £28 for kids and £30 adults.

For those who like to keep their feet on the ground, there is a new ticket type called Flex Pass.

Costing £18, it is aimed at non-riders and includes park entry, a ride on the Pleasure Beach Express, and the option to buy individual ride tickets as you go.

Looking for somewhere good to stay nearby?

The award-winning Boulevard Hotel sits right under the massive drop of the Big One coaster.

Just a one-minute walk from the park, it boasts rooms with sea or park views.

They start from £85 a night and even include free Pleasure Beach tickets.

With overseas travel looking a bit less certain this summer than it has in recent years, more of us are looking for staycation fun at the British seaside.

Trains from London run to Blackpool in just over three hours.

From Manchester, it is barely more than an hour.

There is also the Sandcastle, the UK’s largest indoor waterpark, which celebrated its 40th birthday earlier this year with a £500,000 refresh.

Inside are a dizzying 18 slides and a huge wave pool, kept at an inviting 30C no matter what the weather is doing outside.

Tickets start from £24.95.

Throw in Blackpool’s Tower, the Illuminations, and fish-and-chips for good measure, and you have a budget break for the family that can more than match any excitement abroad.

I’VE lived on Kent’s trendy coastline for more than five years, so I think I can legitimately call myself a local now.

After ditching London in my late twenties, I’ve lived in both Margate and Folkestone, while spending my weekends exploring the other seaside towns.

In the last 15 years, Kent’s seaside towns have arguably seen the biggest transformations of the whole British coast.

That’s due to a combination of new investment, an influx of ‘down from Londoners’ moving in and a reignited love of the traditional seaside break among Millennials.

But which town you should visit depends on what type of trip you’re looking for.

So here are my top tips for seven of the best Kent beach towns and villages, from what to do and where to eat, to the best hotel and things to do under a fiver.

Whitstable

One of the more established Kent seaside towns, Whitstable is famous for its annual Oyster festival and has been a popular tourist destination for the last few decades – long before towns like Margate saw a resurgence.

Eat and drink in Whitstable

Blueprint Coffee and Books is the kind of place where you’ll go in for a cappuccino but come out with magazines and a candle.

The pastel pink Wheelers Oyster Bar is where everyone goes for their seafood (and for good reason) but if you fancy something other than fish, Harbour Street Tapas is the place for Spanish sharing plates.

In the summer months, the Old Neptune pub is a must, where the pub garden is right on the beach. Or try Porto Wine Bar, tucked a bit further down for staff who really know their wines.

Don’t forget an ice-cream – Bear’s Ice Cream Imaginarium has everything from classics to more unusual flavours like celeriac and wasabi. Yes, really.

Best things to do in Whitstable

Harbour Street is home to some fantastic vintage shops to explore. I picked up a jumper worth £69 for a fiver, so it has some treasures if you look hard enough.

There’s also Whitstable Harbour, still a working harbour, to explore as well as the free-to-visit Whitstable Castle with beautiful gardens and a kids’ play area.

Really fancy a dip? Brave the water with the other cold water swimmers but make sure to warm up in the Sea Scrub Sauna, one of many around Kent.

Where to stay in Whitstable

The Marine Hotel is a classic coastal B&B, with big chunky king size beds and windows thick enough to keep out the sea breeze.

The restaurant is where you will join the locals on a Friday night with a classic but hearty menu making you grateful for the proximity of your room.

Rooms from £125. See marinewhitstable.com.

Under £5 in Whitstable

Why not test your crabbing skills?

Head to the end of the harbour and pick up a crabbing net from one of the stalls which are usually under a fiver and see what you can catch.

Margate

Nicknamed Shoreditch-on-Sea, Margate is known for being one of the trendiest beach towns in the country.

As well as having one of Kent’s rare sandy beaches (most are shingle) this has also seen a huge increase in cool wine bars and restaurants.

Eat and drink in Margate

Start your day at Big Shot Diner for a cup of tea while looking out over the beach, or the Bus Cafe for a great full English breakfast.

When it comes to fish, the best chippies in town are Peter’s Fish Factory and Beach Buoys, so expect queues out the door, or for a fancier sit down affair, head to Angela’s.

Pizza by the slice is best at Palm’s Pizzeria, best chased by a pickleback shot (whisky and pickle juice).

There are some great wine bars too but my favourite place to go are the pubs in Margate.

Try Rose in June for fun food and drink pop ups or the 18th century George & Heart House, which also has rooms above if you fancy staying the night.

Best things to do in Margate

The beach itself is beautiful but for more adrenaline-fuelled fun, head to the free-to-visit Dreamland.

You can pay for rides, or just take in the retro-style attraction – come in the summer for the fantastic live music line up ranging from Lovebox to Bastille.

Or did you know Margate is home to Europe’s only Crab Museum? It’s certainly quirky but one to visit as its free, although they rely on donations.

And of course there is the free Turner Contemporary art gallery as well, which is reopening on May 23 with a new exhibit.

Where to stay in Margate

Lots of boutique hotels have opened in Margate in recent years, and one of the best is Guesthouse No.42.

One of just four in the UK, it even has the town’s only rooftop bar, which overlooks the beach.

Rooms start from £141. See guesthousehotels.co.uk.

Under £5 in Margate

The bizarre Shell Grotto remains a mystery as to why or how it was built – but its a beauty to see.

Concession tickets start from £5, kids tickets are £2.

Folkestone

Named one of the best places to live in the UK last year, Folkestone has seen a huge rise in popularity in recent years, partly because of its speedy, 52-minute train from London.

There are some new openings to be excited about too, including the Lower Leas Cliff funicular.

Eat and drink in Folkestone

After it’s success in Margate, Pomus opened their second small plate restaurant in Folkestone. It’s one of the smarter places in town, but service is just as friendly with a rotating menu of locally caught produce.

Award-winning Rocksalt is the place for fish lovers, overlooking the harbour (and the oysters are a must).

Or for something more low-key, there is the local-loved Morley’s which has a small but classic menu – think burgers and pastas.

If there is one thing Folkestone isn’t short of, it’s pubs – try the Harbour Inn or The Pullman for friendly staff and local ciders.

And splash out for the evening by heading to the end of the harbour for a glass of fizz at The Lighthouse Champagne Bar, or a cocktail at Gaia Studios.

Best things to do in Folkestone

The Harbour Arm celebrated 10 years this year, and you can easily spend a day in the shipping container yard.

Along with food and drink stalls, there are independent shops selling everything from locally-made wine to clothing and dog treats. It also has lots of live music throughout the year and live screenings of films and sports.

Also nearby is The Boardroom for darts and shuffleboard (currently closed for a renovation), while the new Sea Scrub Sauna is the largest of its kind in the UK. Otherwise go for a wander along to the Lower Leas Coastal Park, which is getting a huge new playground too.

Where to stay in Folkestone

The London & Paris Hotel is one of the few boutique hotels in town, where every room overlooks the harbour.

Each room is coastal chic – think blue striped walls and vintage bathtubs – and they come with little touches such as complimentary binoculars and breakfasts delivered by hamper.

Rooms start from £71. See londonandparishotel.co.uk.

Under £5 in Folkestone

Grab an ice cream from Herbert’s Gelato with a rotating menu of interesting flavours such as hot cross bun or malted milk. From £3.90.

Ramsgate

From welcoming Queen Victoria in the 1800s to having the UK’s only Royal Harbour, Ramsgate has a rather regal history.

Now, it is a popular seaside town still slightly overlooked by its trendier neighbours Margate and traditional Broadstairs, but it is a great weekend break.

Eat and drink in Ramsgate

Get your morning coffee at Staple (along with an irresistible cruffin to go) with cafes also open in Westgate and Broadstairs.

But for the best places to eat, there are two top choices. First up is Marc-Pierre’s Kitchen restaurant where you will find some of the best seafood in town (with enough awards to show for it).

Otherwise curry fans should head straight to Flavours by Kumar.

It’s tucked down a tiny hidden side street but with big restaurants under his belt, including London’s famous Cinnamon Club, you’re in good hands (make sure to save room for the chocolate samosas).

End your evening at Noa Rooftop, which opened last year, for a crisp glass of wine to watch the sunset.

Best things to do in Ramsgate

Ramsgate has the UK’s only Royal Harbour, so it is the best place to spot the boats coming in and out for the day.

But its wartime history is best learned about at the Ramsgate Tunnels.

There are daily tours of the underground system that is also the largest UK network of wartime tunnels.

Search the knick-knacks of Petticoat Emporium, one of Kent’s biggest indoor markets with 200 traders and where you can pick up everything from vintage spoons to huge wicker chairs.

Where to stay in Ramsgate

Ramsgate is more B&Bs than boutique hotels, but one of the best in town is the The House at Ramsgate which dates back to 1780. With just 14 rooms which are cosy but modern, choose the Queen Victoria Room where she spent three months in 1835. Make sure to stay for the roast dinners too…

Rooms from £90. See thehouseatramsgate.co.uk.

Under £5 in Ramsgate

Of course, a visit to Ramsgate isn’t complete with a trip to the Victorian Pavilion – the UK’s (and technically) the world’s biggest Wetherspoons pub, so spend around £4.50 for a pint of Corona and head to the rooftop for views over the beach.

Broadstairs

With strong connections to Charles Dickens (who raved about the place while holidaying there), Broadstairs is your more traditional seaside town.

It has seven sandy beaches to choose from, so you’re spoilt for choice.

Eat and drink in Broadstairs

If you love a good coffee, you’re in luck – there’s Giant Coffee, who do unique hot drinks like cloud matchas (and are also in Ramsgate and Margate) to Forts who are known for their great coffees across Kent.

Fish and chips are a must at the beach and everyone heads to The Mermaid who do very large portions.

Chase it with an ice cream at Morelli’s Gelato which dates back to 1907, they sell huge towering sundae with all the trimmings.

But for dinner, you can’t go wrong with the award-winning Bar Ingo, a tiny restaurant with just a few tables but serving small plates inspired by basque dishes.

I’m still dreaming of the miso mushrooms after my last visit.

Best things to do in Broadstairs

Broadstairs has the beautiful curved Viking Bay sandy beach, so hanging out there is a must. Grab a paddleboard or rent a deckchair; you can do what you like to while away the day.

There are also the retro arcades at the top of the hill, which are a surefire hit with the kids.

Or you can explore some of the independent shops selling trinkets and gifts on the high street (my favourites are Home by SP and Arrowsmiths).

Where to stay in Broadstairs

One of the newest hotels in Broadstairs is Smith’s Townhouse, with just six bedrooms in the Georgian building. Stylish east London interiors are across the downstairs cafe and the rooms – Room Five even has Elton John’s former wardrobe.

They have some of the best coffee in town – perfect for a breakfast pick me up – but stay for a vibe in the evening where you can get cocktails and nibbles too.

Rooms start from £140. See smithstownhouse.co.uk.

Under £5 in Broadstairs

Broadstairs was once raved about by Charles Dickens, so a visit to the Dickens House Museum is a must.

Inside is the inspiration for Betsey Trotwood’s home from the novel David Copperfield.

Tickets cost £5 for adults of £2.50 for kids.

Deal

The town of Deal is quickly becoming a foodie hub, with some critically-rated restaurants popping up.

It also has a great art scene, with numerous galleries and frequent exhibitions from local artists.

It’s on the smaller side than Whitstable or Folkestone, but also makes it far more walkable.

Eat and drink in Deal

Popup Cafe is, despite it’s name, not a pop-up but a fantastic coffee shop where you’ll be hanging with young families and coworkers on their laptops.

Mostly known only to locals, the local Jenkins & Son Fishmongers opens at certain days to offer street food dishes; I regularly make a trip for the Monkfish Tacos.

For pubs, try the Caribbean style roast at The Port Arms, which shares an outdoor seating area with the nearby Kings Head pub – also worth a drink in.

The recently revamped Le Pinardier wine bar will transport you to a French bistro (without the snobby staff when you ask for a Pinot Grigio, however).

Best things to do in Deal

The high street is full of art galleries and independent sellers, my favourites being The Hoxton Store, Mileage and 123 High Street for gifts.

Explore the brutalist Deal Pier, restored twice in its history and now one of the last remaining of its kind, where you can weave between the fishermen for some of the best views in town.

Kids will love Deal Castle where they can explore the hidden tunnels and even play pretend with wooden muskets.

Otherwise try and visit on a Saturday morning to catch the local market that dates back to 1699 – and fill your pockets with antiques and cinnamon buns.

Where to stay in Deal

The Rose Hotel is one of the UK’s best boutique hotels, with just nine cosy rooms. Make sure to try the restaurant too, its one of the finest in town with a previous menu highlight being the chicken shnitzel.

Rooms from £110. See therosedeal.com.

Under £5 in Deal

Grab a bottle of beer at the stunning Deal Pier Kitchen to get beautiful ocean views, while being protected from the sea winds.

Hythe

The military history of Hythe shapes it, being one of the UK Cinque Ports.

Now, its a sleepy seaside town, less crowded due to it being off the beaten track and having no major train station.

Eat and drink in Hythe

Arrive early and get a coffee from the tiny, locally-run Mit Milche Coffee although expect queues out the door by mid-morning.

Gorge on some moules mariniere at The Waterfront with a table outside by the promenade, where you can expect a range of live jazz and DJ music on certain days.

If you’re in the mood for something fancier, just on the outskirts is Hide & Fox which gained a second Michelin star last year.

Just come hungry if you opt for the eight-course menu.

If the sea air is a little brisk, warm up in the Kings Head pub, one of the oldest and cosiest in town dating back to 1583.

Best things to do in Hythe

The Royal Military Canal is prime for low-key strolling, running for 28 miles and made as an anti-invasion defence again Napoleon in 1803 (although it was never used.)

There are also the Hythe Sound Mirrors which were huge structures build to “listen” for enemy planes and have now been left abandoned – but worth a visit to see the sheer scale of them.

Make sure to take kids to the famous Romney, Hythe and Dymchurch Railway, with small train carriages running a small route via Dungeness.

Want to get your shopping kicks? Head to Malthouse Arcade on Fridays and Saturdays with trinkets galore across two floors.

Where to stay in Hythe

You don’t get much grander than the Hythe Imperial Hotel, overlooking the English Channel. Inside an 18th manor house, there are 92 rooms to choose from. Save time for a cuppa in the Snug or a trip to its Moet & Chandon Bar.

Rooms from £146. See hytheimperial.co.uk.

Under £5 in Hythe

Why not have a free game of tennis, with five courts open to the public at South Road Sports Facility (although save a few quid to buy some more tennis balls for any rogue hits).

A HISTORIC lido with stunning sea views is reopening today, just in time for the good weather.

Located on the edge of a scenic area dubbed the UK’s Costa del Sol, this pool is the perfect place to cool off in the summer sun.

Dating back to the 1930s, Brightlingsea in Essex is one of the last remaining lidos in the area.

The site boasts an Olympic-size outdoor pool, along with a heated toddler pool as well as sun loungers, changing rooms, and a cafe.

Summer sessions will run from 7am until 5pm, with the first three hours allotted for relaxed lane swimming.

Aquacise and “little dipper” sessions for younger swimmers are also available.

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The lido first opened in 1932 as a tidal salt pool, eventually converting to freshwater in the 1970s.

Nowadays, the popular site is run by volunteers who saved it from closure in 2017.

General entry costs £7.50 for adults and £5.50 for children aged two to 18 and seniors over 65.

Toddlers under the age of two can enter for free.

Cheaper rates are available for lane swimming, quiet sessions, and aquacise, with more information available on the lido’s website.

The site will be open from 7.30am until 7.15pm until Monday, August 31.

Brightlingsea is much quieter than its neighbouring towns such as Clacton but is still known for its shingle beach.

The area is perhaps most recognisable for its line of colourful beach huts on the promenade.

One visitor described the area as “very unspoilt, family oriented, beautiful beach. Traditional town back in the 50’s.”

Brightlingsea is on the UK’s Sunshine Coast, which one person said is like “going back in time to seaside holiday of the past.”

Another visitor told The Sun: “I was on the Sunshine Coast of Essex, which is often compared to Spain thanks to it being one of the sunniest, driest spots in the country.

“What I really loved about exploring the Essex seaside is the sheer variety of experiences on one relatively small stretch of coast, bookended by Brightlingsea in the south and Harwich in the north.”

A HUGE rooftop with disco bowling, mini-golf and bottomless brunch has reopened for another summer.

Adults can embrace their inner child at a quirky “playground for grown-ups” in London.

One of the capital’s most whimsical venues, overlooking the city skyline, is back for the summer season.

Roof East has transformed the top of a Stratford car park into a full-blown rooftop playground for adults with a line-up of games, food, drinks and entertainment.

The venue has built a reputation as an “urban playground”, with visitors able to take part in everything from crazy golf and batting cages to archery, ping pong and lawn bowls.

This year’s relaunch sees the return of fan-favourites including mini-golf, competitive group games and interactive outdoor challenges, alongside themed nights and live entertainment.

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Foodies are also catered for with a rotating line-up of street food traders, while the bar serves cocktails, beers and frozen drinks perfect for sunny evenings.

Bottomless brunches are also back on the menu, giving groups the chance to pair food, drinks and games in one all-day experience.

The site also features an open-air cinema, where guests can settle into deckchairs and watch cult films and new releases under the stars.

Prices for the games vary with crazy golf starting at £10 while the batting cages cost upwards of £25.

Visitors are advised to book activities in advance to guarantee a spot, although there are still plenty of free games and attractions to enjoy without a reservation.

Roof East will stay open for the entire summer season until September 27, 2026.

A POPULAR “time warp” attraction has reopened this week following months of closure.

A multi-million pound grant has helped resurrect the model Victorian town in time for the half term.

Blists Hill, a living Victorian Museum in Shropshire, finally reopened yesterday (May 21), allowing visitors to step back in time once more.

The 1900s style attraction closed in February this year after the National Trust took over the property from the previous owners, the Ironbridge Gorge Museum Trust.

The open-air museum features staff working in 18th and 19th century clothing, with a candle factory, butcher’s shop, school and a shoesmith for visitors to explore.

There is even a bank trading in shillings and pence, which visitors can use to spend at the confectionery store.

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Shire horses, as well as the new addition of a pony, also provide carriage rides around the town.

As part of the takeover, the National Trust was given a £9 million government grant to “increase visitor numbers” from beyond the county.

It will now run the attraction alongside nine other museums, 35 listed buildings and scheduled monuments that were once operated by Ironbridge.

Around 330,000 visitors come to the site annually from the West Midlands and across the UK.

The 11-week delay in reopening the attraction was attributed to overhauling IT systems, staff training and induction.

The Museum of Iron and The Old Furnace in Shropshire are also set to open this month.

A BELOVED lido, boasting elephant slides and splash pads, is set to reopen this Bank Holiday weekend.

This beloved outdoor pool is the last riverside tidal lido in Britain.

The Strand Lido Pool in Gillingham, Medway, will welcome back visitors this Saturday.

Listed as the UK’s only riverside salt water pool, this Kent-based lido uses cleaned river water that is safe for public swimming.

Opened back in 1896, Medway’s only lido has been inviting families to swim for over 130 years.

This Victorian-era lido includes a host of swimming facilities for all ages, including an outdoor leisure pool and toddler paddling pool.

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Children will love the elephant slides into the paddling pool, and cruising along the 300-metre lazy river.

For more advanced swimmers, there is also a central swimming zone, fitted with six 25-metre lengths to get some exercise this summer.

In 2025, The Strand introduced a free-to-use splash pad designed for children aged three to 11.

The splash pad features 30 sensor-activated waterjets in a beach-themed play area, opening at the same time as the lido with no booking required.

Strand visitors can also enjoy refreshments from the cafe, a mini train ride, crazy golf, tennis, a children’s play area and more.

Around the lido, visitors can buy pool inflatables, enjoy a break at the pool-side cafe, and lounge on the seating and sunbeds provided.

To enjoy all this summer fun, entry to The Strand Lido costs £8.15 for adults, and £5.35 for children, with under threes going free.

The pool will be operating on weekends from May 23 with two bookable sessions between 10.30am to 1.30pm, and 2.30pm to 5.30pm.

It will then be open for seven days a week during the school summer holidays – starting from Tuesday, July 21.

EUROPE’S biggest mini-golf course spans 107,000 square feet – and it’s based in the UK.

With summer just around the corner, finding the best locations for a day out is key.

And it turns out that Europe‘s largest mini-golf course is located in an English town and boasts an epic Australian theme.

Adlington Golf Centre in Macclesfield is home to the huge Australian Golf Adventure experience, complete with an 18-hole course, a giant waterfall and snake statues.

Located around a 45-minute drive from Manchester, it’s the perfect family day out, described as “a fun, themed competition which involves putting a golf ball around challenging themed holes”.

Players can grab their club and tee off to enjoy each hole’s individual Australian-based decor.

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From the Sydney Opera House to countless kangaroos, the course’s design means you don’t have to catch a long flight to get a taste of life Down Under.

The game is played on 1500 square metres of greens based on the impressive 10,000 square metre Cheshire site, while caves, bridges and a 7.5m waterwall add to the thrills.

While players can book before they arrive, spontaneous arrivals are welcome too, with individual tickets priced from £5.

Adult entry to the course will set you back £15 per person and a children’s tickets for 13 years and under is a tenner.

A family of two adults and two kids can go for £44, while spectators and kids aged four and under will cost just £5 each.

It’s even cheaper to book as a group of twelve or more, with adults down to £12, children to £8 and toddlers and spectators for £4.

The on-site café and coffee shops are open all day for refreshments after a long round of golf – serving snacks, hot drinks, hot food and pastries.

For those hoping to get stuck into something more grown-up, the centre also hosts two nine-hole golf courses, a foot golf course and a driving range for a good whack.

There’s good news if you’re riding the padel hype, too. Adlington Golf Centre will soon be home to four brand new, state-of-the-art padel courts, set to open this year.

A VICTORIAN seaside spot has doubled in size thanks to a £185 million promenade makeover.

The beachfront has now reopened to visitors after six months of work.

Southsea beach in Portsmouth is undergoing a huge redevelopment as work continues to increase the beach’s size and improve the promenade flood defences.

The Southsea Coastal Scheme is a £185 million project that was introduced to help reduce the risk of flooding to thousands of homes and local businesses.

Its planned defences will stretch along a 2.7 mile section of the seafront and is the UK’s biggest local authority-led coastal defences project.

The beach widening work, which covered the stretch between the Pyramid Centre and the Coffee Cup café began in October last year and was completed by March 2026.

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Increasing the beach’s width was achieved using shingle dredged from a nearby strait close to the Isle of Wight, with one million tonnes of shingle deposited on the beach using a pipeline from the dredger.

Widening the beach improves the area’s flood defences as the larger beach can now absorb more wave energy and will better defend the coastline.

While this process was underway, access to the beach was limited for safety reasons and certain sections were closed to the public, reopening section-by-section as work was completed.

Speaking on the decision to expand the beach, Southsea Coastal Scheme project executive, Marc Bryan, said: “We’ve chosen to build a larger shingle beach in this area because they’re great at absorbing wave energy which in turn helps reduce erosion and protects homes and businesses from coastal flooding.

“The new beach will adapt to rising seas and our changing climate while still providing the required standard of protection.

“It will be easily maintained and can be topped up if needed in the future.”

Other work that forms part of the scheme has already been completed including the demolition and creation of a new seawall around Long Curtain Moat.

Two new bridges were also built nearby and the promenade was made higher and wider with additional seating.

Rocks were imported to create new sea defences around Southsea Castle and improvements have been made to part of the promenade between Pyramids and Speaker’s corner, including new terraces, seating and play areas.

Currently, construction work is underway between South Parade Pier and Speaker’s Corner creating a new-look promenade and improving the defences.

Large precast concrete blocks have been installed onto 75 units on the sea frontage, cleverly disguised as tiered planters and seating.

The promenade level is also in the process of being raised using a mix of crushed stone and crushed concrete from the previous promenade.

When complete, the new promenade area will match the existing seafront paving.

Construction is expected to continue till May 2027, and while the work is underway, certain areas of the beachfront will be closed, however many local businesses will remain open.

The entire coastal defence scheme is expected to be completed by 2029.

The beach, made up of a mix of shingle and sand, has been a popular tourist destination since the 19th century and is located just a mile south of Portsmouth city centre.

Named after the nearby Southsea Castle, the beach first welcomed its South Parade Pier in 1879, originally the site of a passenger steamer service for travellers heading to the Isle of Wight.

The seafront has been described by visitors as “a little gem” on the South East coast, with a “wonderful” promenade full of shops and cafes.

TWO major English train stations are set to close as they undergo renovations.

The commuter hubs will be unavailable to the public for 22 days next month as part of the regeneration works.

Both Charing Cross Station and Waterloo East Station in London will not allow travel for a number of weeks over the summer.

The stations’ decades-old tracks and platforms will be given a revamp.

The closures will take place between Sunday, July 26, and Sunday, August 16, as well as on Sunday, May 31, and Sunday, June 7.

There will also be a full weekend closure from Saturday, August 22, to Sunday, August 23, – and again from Saturday, October 10, to Sunday, October 11.

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On these dates, no trains will stop at Charing Cross or Waterloo East, although the Southeastern services will continue throughout the closures.

Trains that usually terminate at Charing Cross will be diverted to London Victoria, London Blackfriars, London Cannon Street or London Bridge. Tickets will be accepted on these alternative routes.

Meanwhile the London Underground service from Charing Cross will run as normal.

The closures will allow a £20million engineering project to be completed, with almost two kilometres of 36-year-old track set to be replaced.

Sections of Charing Cross’s platforms will undergo repairs along with updates to the drainage systems on the tracks.

Structural repairs to the Waterloo East to London Waterloo pedestrian link bridge and the Hungerford Bridge are also required.

Scott Brightwell, train services director at Southeastern Railway, said: “The £20 million investment we are delivering will see 1990s track and platforms upgraded to make journeys safer and more reliable, and Victorian era structures strengthened to remain fit for the future.  

“By consolidating the work into 22‑day closure, supported by preparation and follow‑up weekends, we can complete the work more quickly and with less disruption overall than the alternative options of 60 weekend closures or four to five 9-day closures.”

Urging passengers to “plan ahead and check before they travel”, he added: “We have planned the closure for the summer, when passenger numbers are around 20 per cent lower and schools are closed, to help manage the impact on customers.”

A VICTORIAN train station has reopened to the public after four years of construction.

The project has faced major delays throughout, with the station initially scheduled to open in 2025.

Darlington Station has reopened after receiving a £140million makeover, with first-time travelers enjoying the revamped facilities this weekend.

Darlington is considered to be the home of the modern railway, but the Victorian station needed a redesign.

Redevelopment for this historic Grade II listed station has been in the works for years, with the project starting in August 2022.

At the time, concerns were raised about whether the modern design would be in keeping with its Victorian history.

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After major building work, such as cutting a hole in the roof to install a new footbridge, the project was pushed back due to “additional design requirements”, surpassing the initial completion date in 2025.

Now, after these delays, visitors in this northern town can enjoy a modern new copper-coloured concourse, an elevated walkway connecting two new platforms, and a 650-space multi-storey carpark.

The design of the station also means that it is now fully accessible, with step-free access across the whole station.

Completion of the station was celebrated on May 15, with conductors whistling in the famous steam locomotive Tornado to mark the occasion.

An LNER Azuma train also took passengers on a special inaugural journey to York, with live music, entertainment and refreshments on board.

On May 17, with the station fully working, locals got to try out the new facilities, funded by £43million from Tees Valley Combined Authority and £96million from Network Rail and the Department for Transport.

Visitors praised the new station, reports The Northern Echo, with one hailing the new station as “like a palace to the railway“, and others saying it was “modern and unbelievable”.

One particularly happy visitor also told the Echo: “If you said something like this would be in Dubai, you would think oh my goodness.

“This is in Darlington – and there’s not a railway station on the East Coast Mainline as good as this.” 

Lola McEvoy, MP for Darlington, has praised the redevelopment of the station: “This absolutely cements it with the connectivity that we need, £160 million, and so many hours and hours of work.

“I just want to pay tribute to everybody who has put so much graft into this.

“I think it’s really important because for visitors and for investors, this is going to mark us out as a place to come and visit and enjoy and build.

“But for residents, what it’s going to do is unlock new adventures and make sure that we get the economic opportunities and the growth that we so desperately need and absolutely deserve.”

A NEW direct rail service connecting two major UK cities started running again for the first time in over two decades.

The first direct service left the station this morning at 7am.

A new daily rail service between Oxford and Bristol Temple Meads began today, offering a direct service between the two cities for the first time in 23 years.

The new service started this morning after plans were finally given the go-ahead on Friday, May 13, by Network Rail and Great Western Railway.

Running from Monday to Saturday, the new service will travel via the following stations: Oxford, Swindon, Chippenham, Bath Spa and Bristol Temple Meads.

Both services began today with the first train leaving Oxford at 7am, arriving into Bristol Temple Meads at 8.20am.

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Going the other way, the first service departing from Bristol left at 7.14am and arrived into Oxford at 8.32am.

The fastest journey times from Oxford will be one hour and eight minutes and from Bristol one hour and 11 minutes.

Until today, there was no direct service between Oxford and Bristol, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

The new rail line also means there is now a direct service for passengers travelling between Swindon and Oxford.

Previously travellers needed to change at either Didcot Parkway or Reading.

Great Western Railway’s managing director, Mark Hopwood, said the decision comes after years of campaigning from customers and partners.

“The economic and social benefits are clear, and we are confident that these new services demonstrate the value of rail in driving economic growth, environmental benefits, and creating education and employment opportunities which previously were not possible – as well as directly linking two of the key leisure markets in the UK,” he said.

Swindon South MP and Secretary of State for Transport, Heidi Alexander, said the “weekend trial of direct trains was hugely popular” and the new service will provide travellers with “a fast, convenient alternative to being stuck in a traffic jam on the A420”.

Network Rail Western route director, Marcus Jones, said bringing back the direct service “is a significant step in improving connectivity across the Western route” and the new links “will make it easier for people to travel between key economic centres, opening up new opportunities for work, education and leisure”.

ANIMATION movie favourites Wallace and Gromit needn’t have hopped on that rocket to the moon in search of cheese.

The chocolate-box Somerset village of Cheddar is closer – and no prizes for guessing what the star of every quaint cafe’s menu might be.

In fact, Cheddar cheeese can be enjoyed in any and every way imaginable here – piled into a sandwich with chutney, blended into a savoury scone . . . or even in ice-cream form.

These cafes sit alongside cheesy souvenir shops, clothing boutiques and attractions all dedicated to the well-known dairy delight.

Luckily, Wallace and his dog Gromit have finally cottoned on.

The duo are at Gough’s Cave in Cheddar Gorge until May 31, starring in a new illuminated trail that celebrates 50 years of their creators, animation firm Aardman.

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Dotted throughout the ancient, cavernous structure are sculptures of Wallace and Gromit, and franchise characters Feathers McGraw and Shaun the Sheep, for kids to gawp at, while adults can uncover facts about the gorge itself.

It’s pretty much the only local attraction that’s not dedicated solely to cheese, although if you keep your eyes peeled, you’ll still spot some of the yellow stuff (more on that below).

Labelled as a Site of Special Scientific Interest, Gough’s Cave began forming over half a million years ago and shows how incredible nature can be.

Most of the stalagmites have been developing for hundreds of thousands of years and there are areas of the cave that resemble the remnants of a giant candle with a waxy exterior that has melted into a puddle on the rocky floor.

As I wandered the damp tunnels, my audio guide kicked in, like my personal geographical expert, highlighting how the minerals have transformed the colour of calcites into shades of rusty red and yellow over many years.

About a third of the way in, hidden in a cool, damp area, you’ll find huge wheels of cave cheese, placed carefully on shelving units.

Cave-ageing is one of the traditional methods for maturing cheese, in cool and dark conditions.

Although much of the UK’s Cheddar production sadly no longer occurs in these parts, you can still pick up some local stuff from the Cheddar Gorge Cheese Co, including the cave-aged Cheddar – rich and complex in flavour.

Anyone who buys a ticket to the caves can climb Jacob’s ladder, an historic set of 274 steps that leads to the peak of the gorge, with a lookout tower offering spectacular views.

The village itself is also a great place for a stroll.

Or meander past the shops, following the river and visit quaint cafes featuring walls decorated with flower-filled pots.

Cafe Gorge is one of the best spots for lunch. Its ploughman’s platters are properly hearty, with big hunks of white bread accompanied by dollops of piccalilli and generous wedges of Cheddar.

If you’re a wildlife lover, keep your eyes peeled for furry mountain goats grazing on the craggy hillside.

The whole experience is rather cheesy, but that’s what makes it so Gouda!

TRAINS will run through the night to one of the UK’s busiest airports from today.

Commuters will be able to catch eight new timetabled services that offer more reliable journeys.

All-night rail services between Manchester Piccadilly and Manchester Airport will run from today, in a major new boost to the city’s nighttime economy.

TransPennine Express has scheduled trains to run hourly through the night, every day of the week, with eight new overnight services included.

Greater Manchester residents have shared their excitement, with one saying it is “good to see these services reinstated after all these years,” and others calling it “unbelievable.”

The new schedule hopes to improve airport access, as well as offering better commuting services for hospitality workers and passengers travelling in the early hours of the morning.

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Trains from Manchester Piccadilly to Manchester Airport are generally faster than driving, with the journey taking between 15 and 20 minutes, and a drive taking up to 30 minutes.

This schedule adds to the already simplified train travel system in Manchester, which only sells anytime or off-peak tickets, making services more affordable.

Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester, said: “We’re proud of our thriving night-time economy, and we’re looking to back it with transport that matches how people live and work.

“These all-night trains will help people get to where they need to be – whether that’s catching an early flight, getting home after a late shift, or travelling into town to enjoy everything our night-time economy has to offer.

Nicola Buckley, people director at TransPennine Express, echoed Burnham:  “These all‑night services are about supporting the people and businesses that keep Greater Manchester going 24 hours a day.

“By improving overnight connections to Manchester Airport, we’re making rail a more practical option for workers and passengers alike, while helping to strengthen the region’s night‑time economy.”

Harare, Zimbabwe – Zimbabwe’s real estate and farming sectors are seeing a surge in diaspora-driven investment, with two young content creators quietly emerging as unexpected influencers shaping the trend.

Kundai Chitima, 31, and Kelvin Birioti, 20, each running their own social media channel, have built followings that seem to influence a growing number of Zimbabweans abroad considering return or investment.

On YouTube and Instagram, they share short videos and posts highlighting opportunities in Zimbabwe. Their popular content ranges from property tours and agricultural tips to market trend analysis.

For some in the diaspora, decisions about returning or investing increasingly appear to be shaped less by official narratives and more by social media content offering on-the-ground perspectives of life in Zimbabwe.

One of those influenced is Catherine Mutisi, who spent 17 years living in the United Kingdom working as an accountant. During that time, she had already begun investing in Zimbabwe, building two houses, buying a small plot and starting a business.

She said her thinking shifted after coming across Birioti’s content during construction.

“Gradually, my mind and plans shifted from just visiting Zimbabwe towards wanting to permanently relocate,” she said.

Mutisi said earlier narratives about Zimbabwe had made her cautious, but online content presented a different perspective.

“Previously, I was just building my houses for my family to get some money. But after watching the videos, my eyes opened,” she told Al Jazeera.

Her experience is not isolated. Both Chitima and Birioti say they hear similar accounts from the Zimbabwean diaspora reassessing their long-term plans.

UK-based Zimbabwean Nyashadzashe Nguwo, an Africa market entry and global expansion adviser, said many people like Mutisi are relocating to Zimbabwe due to what he described as a combination of emotional and lifestyle-driven factors.

“There’s a strong desire among many in the diaspora to reconnect with their roots and contribute meaningfully to national development. For some, the lower cost of living and the opportunity to build something impactful at home outweigh concerns about economic instability,” Nguwo told Al Jazeera.

Two influencers

After growing up in Chinhoyi, a town in northern Zimbabwe about 120km (75 miles) northwest of the capital, Harare, Birioti sought a new start and enrolled at Zimbabwe Ezekiel Guti University (ZEGU) in Bindura. He dropped out, however, due to financial challenges and decided to move to Harare.

There, he met Chitima and began learning content creation. From the outset, he said he avoided entertainment-style content, instead focusing on what he saw as an information gap.

“I saw a gap: the diaspora community was being scammed.”

He built his platform about real estate, rural development and farming projects, often working with diaspora Zimbabweans who granted access to their properties for documentation.

On the other hand, Chitima worked as a teacher in South Africa before returning to Zimbabwe in 2015.

He said workplace inequality influenced his choice: “We were earning lower than my South African colleagues. I thought of my dignity and made a decision to return home.”

Chitima returned to Zimbabwe with limited resources and a pregnant wife, entering a very different economic environment from the one he had left.

Before his time in South Africa, he had worked as a civil servant. After returning, he gradually moved into content creation, beginning in 2015 and later training younger creators who went on to build large audiences.

Today, he reflects on his platform as both educational and protective for diaspora audiences.

“I receive calls from people crying … they have been scammed.”

He says his content aims to replace uncertainty with grounded information about the realities and opportunities in Zimbabwe.

Economic pressure and unemployment

While no official figures are publicly available on the exact number of Zimbabweans leaving the country or their reasons for doing so, reports from the International Organization for Migration and independent migration studies indicate consistent migration.

The Zimbabwe National Statistics Agency (Zimstat) reported a 21.8 percent unemployment rate in the third quarter of 2024, based on strict International Labour Organization definitions.

Between 76 percent and 80 percent of workers are in the informal sector, relying on subsistence or unregulated employment. Youth unemployment is particularly acute: a 2025 World Bank report estimates it at 76.8 percent.

For many young people, stable employment is increasingly difficult to secure.

Susan Sibanda, 26, describes moving between short-term and informal work.

“I have been switching from one casual job to the next,” Sibanda said.

Her experience reflects a wider labour market where formal employment continues to shrink. In recent years, several big retailers, including Choppies, Truworths, OK Zimbabwe, and N Richards, have downsized or closed operations.

Emigration pressures remain strong

Against that backdrop, migration still features heavily in the decisions of young Zimbabweans.

Sibanda said she now considers that “leaving Zimbabwe is in my best interest”.

Economist Tashinga Kajiva said the story of emigration from Zimbabwe has largely remained high, driven by a combination of push and pull factors that encourage people to seek what they see as greener pastures.

“Zimbabwe’s economy is marked by complex and, some would say, difficult dynamics. For ordinary citizens, disposable income remains low while the cost of living continues to rise. The marginal propensity to save among working-class citizens is also low, as many are living hand to mouth,” he told Al Jazeera.

Zimbabwe’s diaspora is concentrated in South Africa, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand and the United States, according to government figures.

Keeping ties alive from abroad

The economic link between Zimbabwe and its diaspora remains strong.

According to real estate agents, diaspora buyers now account for a significant share

They state that up to 50 percent of high-end residential properties sold were purchased by Zimbabweans living abroad in recent years. In some regions, land prices have risen by 20–30 percent year-on-year, a surge partly attributed to diaspora buyers.

Diaspora investment is also noticeable in agriculture. Reports from the Zimbabwe Farmers Union indicate that about 10-15 percent of new farm leases over the past two to three years involve diaspora investors, with activity concentrated in Mashonaland Central and Matabeleland regions.

Remittances reached $1.7bn in 2023 and continue to rise. In 2025, Zimbabweans abroad sent $2.45bn home, with the UK and South Africa the largest sources, according to government data. A significant portion of these funds is reportedly invested in real estate, agriculture, and small businesses.

This reflects both practical necessity and emotional attachment to home, as well as a preference for investing in familiar environments, according to economists.

Still, return seems to generate mixed reactions.

Some diaspora Zimbabweans appear cautious, citing political developments and recent protests abroad over governance concerns.

For them, financial ties to Zimbabwe are still strong, but physical return remains uncertain.

With social media reshaping perceptions of life in Zimbabwe, many in the diaspora remain caught between investment opportunities and the country’s economic realities.

As content creators like Chitima and Birioti reshape how some see opportunity in Zimbabwe, domestic economic pressures appear to be pushing others away, leaving the country’s relationship with its diaspora open-ended and still evolving.

“For many Zimbabweans living abroad, investing back home is not just about profit – it’s about staying connected to their roots and shaping the future of their communities,” said Chitima.

MAY half-term is almost here and if you’re looking for a fun way to fill the days, there are a wide range of new theme park rides open across the UK.

Whether your little one is a thrill seeker or a Paw Patrol fan, you won’t be stuck for something to entertain them.

A number of new rides and attractions will be open across the UK’s biggest theme parks during the school break, including nine new additions.

Some of these exciting worlds and rollercoasters are already open to customers.

And there are even themed rooms available at some of these sites for the full experience.

So get planning now for a thrilling and memorable half term break.

SCALE UP

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RIDE ON

First look at £8million ride opening at UK’s best seaside theme park this month

Alton Towers

The world’s first Bluey rollercoaster, Bluey the Ride: Here Come The Grannies!, opened at Alton Towers’ CBeebies Land at the end of March.

This kid-friendly coaster features Bluey and Bingo dressed as Janet and Rita, a fun call-back to fan-favourite episode, and you can even book a Bluey-themed room at the park’s hotel this half term.

Blackpool Pleasure Beach

Blackpool Pleasure Beach will open its £8.72 million gyro swing ride Aviktas this Thursday (May 21).

Measuring a whopping 138 feet, the ride will be the tallest of its kind in the UK.

Chessington World of Adventures Resort

Chessington recently opened its highly-anticipated PAW Patrol land, which features four exciting new rides, and also has themed rooms available nearby.

Chase’s Mountain Mission is a rollercoaster suitable for young kids, while Skye’s Helicopter Heroes takes kids on a high-flying mission, and Marshall’s Firetruck Rescue lets kids take a ride on a shiny red truck, and Zuma’s Hovercraft Adventure offers the UK’s first “drifter” ride.

Crealy

Crealy in Devon recently opened an 80-foot drop tower called Pirates’ Plummet last month.

Previously located in Paultons Park under the name Magma, it has been rebuilt at Crealy, where the inverting air race ride Rotor is also set to open.

Paultons Park

And Paultons Park is not at a loss for attractions, with the new themed land Valgard: Realm of the Vikings officially opening its gates today (Saturday, May 16).

The exciting new land will feature new rides, Drakon, the park’s first inverting rollercoaster with a dramatic vertical lift and Vild Swing, which will swing riders 39 feet into the air.

A BEAUTIFUL countryside town is getting a luxury hotel and country club in a bespoke multi-million pound revamp.

The current site will be knocked down and replaced with a new hotel with a spa and restaurants.

Gatton Manor Hotel & Country Club, nestled in Ockley, near Dorking, Surrey, will demolish its closed hotel and golf course and replace them with a high-end luxury resort.

The new countryside retreat will include 81 guest rooms, two restaurants, a spa with both indoor and wild swimming pools, and a luxury gym with treatment and relaxation areas.

One restaurant will serve fine-dining food, a plan that is earmarked to be a highlight of the refurbishment.

Up to 100 memberships to the gym will be offered to residents within a 3km radius of the new site, given at a preferential rate.

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Keeping with the luxury fitness aspect of the resort, developers hope to make room for two tennis courts and three padel courts on the site.

This move comes after plans were made to permanently close the 18-hole golf course on-site, which had been running at a loss for a few years.

Spanning 6,629 yards and being operational for over 60 years, this stretch of greenery will be rewilded into a mixed wood pasture with a wildflower meadow and wetland habitats.

The 22-hectare site is located near Dorking, a historic market town in the heart of the Surrey Hills.

It is an affluent area, named one of the best places to live in the UK by The Sunday Times, with its leafy environment and charming villages hailing it as a “Hollywood” of country life.

The plans will also introduce 290 construction jobs in the area for the two-year building phase, as well as 145 positions once completed.

Cllr Roger Adams for Bookham West said: “With global warming and rising temperatures I suspect a lot of people seeking a holiday will no longer be heading to the Mediterranean but may well seek to have staycations, and where better to stay for a holiday than Surrey.

“We’ve got beautiful country here and we do need developments such as this. It will provide employment and enhance the visitor schemes.”

Cllr Monica Weller, also for Bookham West, said: “It really is quite fantastic as far as I’m concerned. A business like this has got to bring something really quite fantastic to our area and that is really to be welcomed.”