UKs

United States lawmakers have written to Andrew, Britain’s disgraced former prince, requesting that he sit for a formal interview about his friendship with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, a day after King Charles III formally stripped his younger brother of his royal titles.

Separately, a secluded desert ranch where Epstein once entertained guests is coming under renewed scrutiny in the US state of New Mexico, with two state legislators proposing a “truth commission” to uncover the full extent of the financier’s crimes there.

On Thursday, 16 Democratic Party members of Congress signed a letter addressed to “Mr Mountbatten Windsor”, as Andrew is now known, to participate in a “transcribed interview” with the US House of Representatives oversight committee’s investigation into Epstein.

“The committee is seeking to uncover the identities of Mr Epstein’s co-conspirators and enablers and to understand the full extent of his criminal operations,” the letter read.

“Well-documented allegations against you, along with your longstanding friendship with Mr Epstein, indicate that you may possess knowledge of his activities relevant to our investigation,” it added.

The letter asked Andrew to respond by November 20.

The US Congress has no power to compel testimony from foreigners, making it unlikely Andrew will give evidence.

The letter will be another unwelcome development for the disgraced former prince after a turbulent few weeks.

On October 30, Buckingham Palace said King Charles had “initiated a formal process” to revoke Andrew’s royal status after weeks of pressure to act over his relationship with Epstein – who took his own life in prison in 2019 while facing sex trafficking charges.

The rare move to strip a British prince or princess of their title – last taken in 1919 after Prince Ernest Augustus sided with Germany during World War I – also meant that Andrew was evicted from his lavish Royal Lodge mansion in Windsor and moved into “private accommodation”.

King Charles formally made the changes with an announcement published on Wednesday in The Gazette – the United Kingdom’s official public record – saying Andrew “shall no longer be entitled to hold and enjoy the style, title or attribute of ‘Royal Highness’ and the titular dignity of ‘Prince’”.

Andrew surrendered his use of the title Duke of York earlier in October following new abuse allegations from his accuser, Virginia Roberts Giuffre, in her posthumous memoir, which hit shelves last month.

The Democrat lawmakers referenced Giuffre’s memoir in their letter, specifically claims that she feared “retaliation if she made allegations against” Andrew, and that he had asked his personal protection officer to “dig up dirt” on his accuser for a smear campaign in 2011.

“This fear of retaliation has been a persistent obstacle to many of those who were victimised in their fight for justice,” the letter said. “In addition to Mr. Epstein’s crimes, we are investigating any such efforts to silence, intimidate, or threaten victims.”

Giuffre, who alleges that Epstein trafficked her to have sex with Andrew on three occasions, twice when she was just 17, took her own life in Australia in April.

In 2022, Andrew paid Giuffre a multimillion-pound settlement to resolve a civil lawsuit she had levelled against him. Andrew denied the allegations, and he has not been charged with any crime.

On Thursday, Democratic lawmakers also turned the spotlight on Zorro Ranch, proposing to the House of Representatives’ Courts, Corrections and Justice Interim Committee that a commission be created to investigate alleged crimes against young girls at the New Mexico property, which Epstein purchased in 1993.

State Representative Andrea Romero said several survivors of Epstein’s abuse have signalled that sex trafficking activity extended to the secluded desert ranch with a hilltop mansion and private runway in Stanley, about 56 kilometres (35 miles) south of the state capital, Santa Fe.

“This commission will specifically seek the truth about what officials knew, how crimes were unreported or reported, and how the state can ensure that this essentially never happens again,” Romero told a panel of legislators.

“There’s no complete record of what occurred,” she said.

Representative Marianna Anaya, presenting to the committee alongside Romero, said state authorities missed several opportunities over decades to stop Epstein.

“Even after all these years, you know, there are still questions of New Mexico’s role as a state, our roles in terms of oversight and accountability for the survivors who are harmed,” she said.

New Mexico laws allowed Epstein to avoid registering locally as a sex offender long after he was required to register in Florida, where he was convicted of soliciting a minor for prostitution in 2008.

Republican Representative Andrea Reeb said she believed New Mexicans “have a right to know what happened at this ranch” and she didn’t feel the commission was going to be a “big political thing”.

To move forward, approval will be needed from the state House when the legislature convenes in January.

While the UK has many iconic attractions from the London Eye to Edinburgh Castle, the one that comes out on top with the most five-star reviews on TripAdvisor is one you’ve likely never heard of

The UK has a wealth of places to visit, and if you’re planning a staycation, you certainly won’t be short of ideas. When it comes to visiting a new place, many of us use TripAdvisor to look at reviews and work out what the top attractions are locally.

Now, research from Iglu Cruises has used TripAdvisor data to determine the ultimate day out across 108 countries. Using this information, the cruise line identified which attractions had the highest number of five-star reviews, and a surprising winner emerged at the top.

With 98.1% of reviews giving it five stars, the top spot went to Ascent Aviation, based in the west central lowlands of Scotland. If you know someone interested in planes, this could be the ultimate day out for them, as it hosts a flight simulator and pilot training centre. Visitors can experience flying to over 26,000 airports on a 220-degree wrap-around, which makes you feel like you’re right in the cockpit.

Both children and adults can fly the simulator, although those under 14 will need an adult with them and may require assistance with some of the controls.

One TripAdvisor reviewer said: “I bought this experience for myself and a friend who loves all things aircraft and our experience could not have been better. Our pilot, Chris, was excellent and made us feel instantly comfortable and answered all our (many) questions patiently. A fascinating experience that was really good fun!”

Another commented: “Booked as a present for my son’s 12th birthday, he had an amazing time. The Pilot provided the tuition, treated him as an adult, and provided excellent instruction and patiently answered all his questions. Highly recommend for all flying enthusiasts out there.”

And in a double victory for Scotland, number two on the list is Glenkinchie Distillery in East Lothian. 91.1% of its reviews gave a glowing five stars to the iconic distillery, which is renowned for producing the Edinburgh Malt.

Whiskey fans can tour the distillery and learn how their single malt is made, before visiting the bar for a tasting, and picking up a bottle to take home with them. One visitor said: “Willie gave us the tour and did an amazing job. He told everything with passion, humor and involved everybody in the tour. It’s the best whisky experience near Edinburgh.”

In third place, the Victoria Tunnel in Tyne and Wear boasts 90.5% five-star reviews. This historic underground wagonway was built in the 1840s and originally transported coal, before being used in World War II as an air raid shelter. Guests can take a private tour of the tunnel and learn about its fascinating history and what it was like for the people sheltering there.

Wales gets its first mention in fourth place for the Big Pit National Coal Museum in Torfaen, for which 89.8% of reviews were five-star. This one has an experience that’s best avoided by the claustrophobic; you can go 300 feet underground on a guided tour which is led by a miner. Deep underground, you’ll see the original mine workings and machinery from its days as a working mine.

If you prefer to stay in daylight, there are also surface tours, which take you around various colliery buildings and allow you to learn about the rich history of the mine.

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FOR one city in the UK, Christmas has come early as it’s been transformed into a wintry delight for a Hollywood movie.

Stars of the screen have been spotted in one of the country’s most famous streets to film scenes for the upcoming blockbuster.

York, known for being one of UK’s oldest cities, was also named the top place in the country for the best quality of life according to the Good Growth for Cities Index.

And now it is being turned into a winter wonderland for an upcoming movie.

The film is called ‘Merry Christmas Aubrey Flint’ and is due for release in 2026.

Spotted filming was Richard E Grant, known for his roles in Withnail and I, and Star Wars.

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Game of Thrones star John Bradley, who plays the titular character Aubrey Flint, was spotted filming scenes, along with fellow actor Kiell Smith-Bynoe.

Actress and more recently The Celebrity Traitors star Celia Imrie is also in the film.

According to production company WestEnd Films, the movie tells the story of a reclusive model soldier painter with a lifelong hatred of Christmas who ends up assisting with a care home production of A Christmas Carol.

Shopkeepers and passers by watched on as the stars filmed on Colliergate, a street very near The Shambles. 

One of the shops used as a filming location was Barnitts, a department store that sells everything from Christmas decorations to homeware and DIY tools.

Totally Awesome Toy Shop, will also make an appearance in the film, and the owner, Jo Patton, told the BBC: “To have a film star stood literally on your doorstep, in some ways wasn’t too strange, because in York you expect the unexpected.”

The cast and crew also filmed scenes outside an empty shop on Colliergate.

It was transformed from being empty to a miniature model shop and outside table salt lined the edges of the windows to create the illusion of snow.

York was founded by the Romans in 71AD making it one of the oldest cities in the country.

It’s possibly most famous for its 233ft tall York Minster that dates back to the 7th century.

Visitors are welcome to explore the cathedral whether you fancy a guided tour, or a trip up the tower – tickets for general admission starts at £20pp.

The Shambles, which was used to film the Christmas movie, is full of independent shops selling everything from gifts to baked treats or toys,

Lots of visitors compare the street to Harry Potter’s Diagon Alley which has towering timber-framed shop fronts.

It’s not just all mooching about seeing the sights, visitors can settle in one of York’s 365 pubs.

One writer who visited suggested popping into House of Trembling Madness which serves a selection of local beers and huge sharing boards of meats and cheeses.

One travel expert even named the city the ‘best for families’ – Travel guide creator Peter Naldrett, who has visited all 76 cities in the UK, raved about York.

He said: “York is the best UK city for families because it has so many captivating activities and attractions.

“There’s enough in York to keep both junior and secondary school children entertained, from the Viking Museum to York Chocolate Story and Harry Potter-style streets and a cold war bunker.

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“The Viking Museum has interactive activities for children, the Castle Museum has recreated Victorian Streets and there’s also the Shambles, the inspiration behind JK Rowling‘s Diagon Alley.”

“There’s so much to keep kids busy in York, families will be spoilt for choice.”

Here’s the UK’s ‘most beautiful town’ set to star in huge new Christmas movie with Hollywood stars…

Earlier this year, Hollywood stars like Kiefer Sutherland, Rebel Wilson and EastEnders‘ Danny Dyer descended on Knaresborough for the upcoming movie, Tinsel Town.

Between January and February 2025, cast and crew were spotted in the Yorkshire town, in areas like Castlegate, Riverside, and Green Dragon Yard.

Filming of the Sky Original Christmas movie meant that the festive decorations were up for months longer than usual.

The film, set to be released on November 28, will see Kiefer Sutherland play Bradley Mack, a failed Hollywood action star ending up in a small, snow-dusted village to star in the town’s eccentric production of Cinderella.

It’s here that he encounters a number of oddball locals, one of whom is no-nonsense choreographer Jill, played by Rebel Wilson.

It’s no wonder Knaresborough was picked as a filming location, as The Sun’s Katrina Turrill, who hails from the town, reckons it’s the “most beautiful town in the country” and “picture perfect”.

Knaresborough has pretty waterfront cafes and the opportunity to canoe down the river, while watching steam trains travel over the viaduct.

Katrina said: “If you venture down by the river from either Bond End or walking down the steps at the castle you’ll stand at the foot of the iconic viaduct. 

“Amongst the cafes and houses are two boat hire places – Blenkhorn’s and Marigold Cafe & Boating.  Both are open daily, weather permitting, and are a great way to soak up the stunning scenery.

“No visit to Knaresborough is complete without heading to Knaresborough Castle for the best view of the viaduct. 

“You don’t need to pay to enter the castle grounds, and I recommend seeing the view during the day and at night time, with the viaduct all lit up.”

A UK campsite with a large children’s play park and an adult-only area has been named the best in the UK.

St Helens in the Park in North Yorkshire has been named the best campsite of the year by the AA Caravan & Camping Awards.

The 36-acre site sits on the edge of the North York Moors National Park, making it a great spot to use as a base when hiking.

After visiting, an AA inspector said St Helens was an “immaculate park with pods and terraced pitches close to North York Moors.”

At the park itself, there are five grass pitches, 18 hardstanding pitches, 22 fully serviced pitches and 27 adult-only pitches.

It then has four amenity blocks, two of which are unisex and there is a 24-hour launderette on-site too.

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For those travelling without kids, there is even an adult-only area thanks to some clever tree divides.

For visitors with children, there is a large play area though, with picnic benches.

And if you aren’t the biggest fan of camping out in a tent, then the campsite also has some camping pods, all of which have electricity.

Two also have an en suite shower room and kitchenette.

If that still isn’t luxury enough, then opt for the fully furnished lodge.

For something to eat and drink to warm you up, there is the Hitch & Brew cafe, which is open in the high season.

The cafe offers full English breakfasts, lunches and snacks such as homemade cakes.

It even serves alcohol until 10pm.

The cafe also runs themed nights, such as burger nights, curry nights and pizza nights, made fresh in the on-site pizza oven.

The campsite has a Store Cupboard shop as well, to top up on supplies such as milk and bread.

If you want to leave the campsite and explore a bit more, then there are a number of pubs and restaurants not too far away.

For example, the Walkers Fish Restaurant and Ye Olde Forge Valley Inn are both just a five minute drive away.

The campsite is located on Dawnay Estate, which sprawls across 7,500 acres and features numerous country walks.

On some walks, visitors may even spot some alpacas or donkeys.

Visitors can also take a wander to The North Yorkshire Water Park with a zip line, climbing wall, kayaking, pedalos, Park Runs and open water swimming.

The water park is also home to AquaPark – an inflatable obstacle course that sits on the water, ideal for summer days.

For somewhere further afield to explore, Scarborough is only eight miles away, and there is a bus that goes straight from outside the caravan park.

St Helens in the Park was inspected for quality and commitment to customer satisfaction by AA expert inspectors.

Simon Numphud, managing director at AA Media, said: “British caravan and camping has never been more inspiring with parks across the country offering something truly special, from peaceful rural escapes to unforgettable coastal views.

“This year’s winners highlight the incredible variety and quality of outdoor stays in the UK, where passion, creativity and care combine to give holidaymakers experiences they’ll treasure. Congratulations to all the winners and their teams.”

Pitches are available from £23.50 per night.

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The top fish and chip takeaways and restaurants across the UK have been listed, with some surprising entries

As the year draws nearer to a close, it’s time to celebrate the very best of tasty food, as the Fry Awards announce their top spots for fish and chips in the UK.

Fry Magazine has yet again unveiled its ruling of the 50 best fish and chip takeaways, alongside their top 10 restaurants. These results come after months of judges secretly assessing fish and chip shops nationwide, assessing them on key things such as their food quality, cleanliness, staff, and value for money.

It was only those with the highest scores that rightfully earned themselves an award, and the pass mark for both categories had to be an impressive 96% and above. 2025 marks the 13th year of the awards taking place, and its list is evidence that good food is going nowhere in the UK.

The top 10 restaurants show a wide range of locations, from down south by the coast of Devon right up to Glasgow in Scotland, but it’s safe to say the top contenders are mostly based in beloved seaside towns. Sticking out like a sore thumb, however, is the capital’s only entry in the top restaurants list, and that’s Toff’s of Muswell Hill, in London.

10 Best Restaurants

Catch, Giffnock, Glasgow

Eric’s Fish & Chips, Hunstanton, Norfolk

Fish City, Belfast

Harbour Lights, Falmouth, Cornwall

Pier Point Bar & Restaurant, Torquay, Devon

Squires Fish Restaurant, Braunton, Devon

The Elite, Tritton Road, Lincoln, Lincolnshire

The Magpie Cafe, Whitby, North Yorkshire

The Scallop Shell, Bath, Somerset

Toff’s of Muswell Hill, Muswell Hill, London

Included in the sizeable list are plenty of places in Yorkshire, with seven total entries in the exclusive list, including the likes of Lighthouse Fisheries of Flamborough and Two Gates Fisheries. Home to the likes of Southend-on-Sea and Clacton-on-Sea, the county of Essex also came out with a total of four fish and chip takeaways alone, making waves in the world of seafood.

Reece Head, competition organiser, said: “Another year has passed and, once again, these shops have shown resilience, adapting to today’s challenges with remarkable dedication. At a time when inflationary pressures are being felt, these businesses continue to stay positive and prioritise their customers, maintain exceptional standards, and find innovative ways to keep fish and chips affordable.

“Starting the year as award winners is a fantastic way for fish and chip shops to kick off 2025, setting the tone for a successful year ahead. Whether served in a restaurant, a takeaway, or from a mobile unit, the Fry Awards prove that quality fish and chips can be enjoyed anywhere.”

50 Best Takeaways (in alphabetical order)

• Ainsworth’s Fish & Chips, Caernarfon
• Angel Lane Chippie, Penrith, Cumbria
• Angell’s Fisheries, Newark, Nottinghamshire
• Batterfly Fish & Chips, Surbiton, Surrey
• Bredon Village Fish and Chip Shop, Bredon, Worcestershire
• Callaway’s Fish & Chips, Dorchester, Dorset
• Churchill’s Fish & Chips Langney, Eastbourne, East Sussex

• Farnham’s at Fontygary, Rhoose, Vale Of Glamorgan
• Fiddlers Elbow, Leintwardine, Herefordshire
• Fintans Fish & Chip Co. Llanishen, Cardiff
• Fishnchickn, Hutton, Brentwood, Essex
• French’s Fish Shop, Wells next the Sea, Norfolk
• Garioch Fish Bar, Inverurie, Aberdeenshire
• Greg & Lou’s, Redruth, Cornwall
• Henley’s of Wivenhoe, Colchester, Essex
• Hiks, Brynhyfryd, Swansea
• Hirds Family Fisheries, Halifax, West Yorkshire
• Howe & Co 55, Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire

• Joe’s Traditional Fish and Chips, Strabane , County Tyrone
• Kellaway’s Fish and Chips, Truro, Cornwall
• Kirbys of Horsforth, Horsforth , Leeds
• Kirbys of Meanwood, Meanwood, Leeds
• Lighthouse Fisheries Of Flamborough, Flamborough, East Yorkshire
• Malt and Anchor, Cirencester, Gloucestershire
• Moore’s Fish & Chips, Castle Douglas, Dumfries & Galloway

• Oysters Fish & Chips, Lightwater, Surrey
• Oysters Fish & Chips, Marlow Bottom, Buckinghamshire
• Pennington Plaice, Leigh, Greater Manchester
• Pier Point, Torquay, Devon
• Pisces, Fleetwood, Lancashire
• Portside Fish & Chips, South Elmsall, Leeds
• Portside Fish & Chips, Kirkstall Road, Leeds
• Quintiliani’s Fast Food, Hamilton, Larkhall, South Lanarkshire

• Redcloak Fish Bar , Stonehaven, Aberdeenshire
• Sea Blue Fisheries, Clowne, Derbyshire
• Sea Salt + Sole, Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire
• Seafront Chippy, Hornsea, East Yorkshire
• Shappy Wheels, Shap, Cumbria
• Shaws Fish And Chips, Dodworth, Barnsley, South Yorkshire
• Squires, Braunton, Devon
• Sykes Fish and Chips, Manchester

• The Anchor, Bexley, South East London
• The Bearded Sailor, Pudsey, Leeds, West Yorkshire
• The Cafe Royal, Annan, Dumfries and Galloway
• The Chippie Van, Penrith, Cumbria
• The Codfather, Wakefield, West Yorkshire

• The Fish at Goose Green, Wigan, Greater Manchester
• The Fish Bank, Sherburn in Elmet, North Yorkshire
• The Friary, Carrickfergus, Co Antrim
• The Hook of Clacton, Clacton on Sea, Essex
• The Oyster Shell, Bath, Somerset
• The Village Fish & Chips, Petts Wood, Orpington, Kent
• Town Street Fryer, Marple Bridge, Stockport, Cheshire
• Two Gates Fisheries, Shafton, Barnsley, South Yorkshire

THE UK’s second-longest pier is set to have a £20million refurb, with work starting next year.

The Victorian Southport Pier has been shut since 2022 following safety concerns.

But now it will get a new lease of life with a full restoration, including replacing the decking boards and timber joists, steelwork repairs, as well as adding new gates and CCTV cameras.

The project is expected to take around 14 months to complete, according to the local council.

The pier is a Grade II-listed structure and originally opened in 1860 as an iron pier.

A number of events have also been hosted on the pier over the years.

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In total, it stretches 0.68 miles and is estimated to contribute more than £15million to the economy.

But the pier has a long history of issues and restorations.

For example, back in 1897, the original pavilion which stood at the end of the pier was destroyed by a fire.

In 1959, another fire caused a lot of damage to the decking of the pier.

Things then started to look up as in 1975 the pier was awarded a Grade II-listed status and in 2002, following a £7million refurbishment, the pier gained a new tram.

But then 20 years later, in 2022, the pier closed again due to safety concerns and has been closed since.

Councillor Marion Atkinson, leader of Sefton Council said: “Southport Pier is a structure with a rich history but regrettably with a poor refurbishment programme carried out in the early 2000s, the refurbishment left the pier very vulnerable!

“However we have never considered giving up on it.

“The Pier is a symbol of Southport’s identity, history, and now, thanks to the Council and Central Government, secured for the town’s future too.”

Uniquely, the pier starts on the mainland before crossing over the town’s Marine Lake, then more land before it stretches out into the sea.

At the entrance to the pier, there is also Silcock’s Funland which remains open.

Inside, visitors will find a number of children’s rides and retro arcade machines, as well as a cafe.

There is also a family restaurant and outside, a carousel.

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THE UK will be getting a brand new theme park in 2026 – but it won’t have your typical thrill rides.

Kynren – An Epic Tale of England, is the UK’s largest live action outdoor theatre production and next year it will launch Kynren – The Storied Lands, a new daytime historical theme park.

Set to open in summer 2026 in County Durham, the theme park will immerse visitors in multiple live shows and experiences that “span millennia”.

Phase One of Kynren – The Storied Lands will reveal The Lost Feather and four other live-action shows and immersive experiences, including Fina, a Medieval horse show, a viking show and a Victorian Adventure with characters from the past.

There will also be The Legend of the Wear which will transform a lake into a stage, where the Lambton Worm myth will be brought to life with water stunts and special effects.

In the future, the theme park will have even more shows, as well as educational content and themed experiences inspired by Robin Hood, Excalibur and the Tudors.

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As a whole, the attractions will form the UK’s first live-action historical theme park.

Anna Warnecke, CEO of Kynren – The Storied Lands, said: “2026 is going to be an unforgettable year.

“Not only will our award-winning night show return, but we’ll also open Kynren – The Storied Lands a unique new experience that brings history, heritage and myth to life on a scale not seen anywhere else in the UK.”

The news follows the announcement that Kynren – An Epic Tale of England is set to return next summer, with tickets now on sale.

Located in Bishop Auckland, the show involves more than 1,000 cast and crew members and mass choreography, combat, horsemanship, stunts and fireworks – all on a seven-and-a-half acre stage.

The show takes spectators on a journey of 2,000 years of history from Boudicca’s rebellion to Viking invasions, Norman conquests, Tudor drama and even Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee.

The show lasts 90 minutes, beginning at sunset and ending when the stars are out.

It will run every Saturday evening between July 18 and September 12, 2026.

Tickets cost from £30 per adult and £20 per child.

Children under the age of three, are free.

If visitors book their tickets now, they will also unlock an ‘Insider Pass’, which gives them priority access for tickets to the new Kynren – The Storied Lands when it opens next summer.

Travel writer Catherine Lofthouse, who visited this year’s show, said: “If you’ve never heard of Kynren in Bishop Auckland, Durham, you’re not alone.

“Over an hour and a half, scenes that tell the tale of our homeland, history and heritage come to life across the 7.5-acre outdoor stage.

“The 1,000 professionally trained volunteers might be amateurs, but this incredible cast put on one of the best shows I’ve seen, one that really has to be seen to be believed.

“My boys aged 12 and 10 were absolutely enthralled by the evening’s entertainment from start to finish.

“The whole event is epic – from Viking ships rising from the water to the recreation of a magnificent stained glass window in the spray of a fountain.

“Battle scenes, stunts, celebrations, historic moments, lines from Shakespeare – it’s sometimes difficult to know where to look at there’s so much to take in from one moment to the next.

“It was such a high-quality performance, I’d say it rivaled a live Disney show too.”

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Travel expert Neil Atkinson has revealed the best Christmas markets in the UK – perfect for those who want a festive break without the huge crowds

With the festive season rapidly drawing near, Christmas markets will soon be springing up throughout Britain. From the hugely popular Winter Wonderland in London to more intimate Christmas fairs, there’s undoubtedly something to suit all tastes – and occasionally it’s the less celebrated venues that turn out to be the most unforgettable.

Neil Atkinson, proprietor of Luxury Group Stay, has shared his favourite picks of under-the-radar Christmas markets delivering genuine festive atmosphere without the packed crowds found in Manchester, Birmingham or Edinburgh.

He commented: “Some of the best Christmas events are tucked away in smaller spa towns and cathedral cities. They’re often more personal, better value, and filled with genuine local craftsmanship rather than mass-produced souvenirs.”

Underrated UK Christmas markets, according to a travel expert

Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market – Hampshire

Championing Winchester Cathedral’s Christmas market, Neil remarks: “Set in the shadow of the magnificent Winchester Cathedral, this market has become a southern secret for those who want European-style charm without leaving the UK.”

Running from November 21 through to December 22, Winchester’s market provides visitors with opportunities to buy handcrafted presents, artisan food, and premium crafts, all beneath sparkling lights that turn the Cathedral Close into a festive scene.

With the cathedral choir delivering multiple performances throughout this time, it genuinely is pure Christmas enchantment.

Worcester Victorian Christmas Fayre – Worcestershire

From December 4 to 7, Worcester takes a nostalgic trip back in time, with the streets brimming with Victorian-garbed traders, a classic carousel and the enticing aroma of roasting chestnuts for the Victorian Christmas Fayre.

Expect to encounter local artisans peddling crafts, street food and festive beverages, while carol singers and buskers maintain a lively atmosphere.

Durham Christmas Festival – County Durham

Recommending the Durham Christmas Festival, which runs for a mere three days, from December 5 to 7, Neil added: “Few settings are as striking as Durham Cathedral at Christmas.”

This brief festival features a Craft & Producers’ Marquee on Palace Green, a vibrant outdoor market and a Children’s Lantern Parade culminating at the cathedral.

Canterbury Christmas Market – Kent

From November 12 to December 24, Canterbury adds a cathedral-city sparkle with one of the South East’s most scenic markets.

Visitors can anticipate over 170 stalls offering handmade gifts, candles, crafts and festive foods lining the streets under the glow of the city’s ancient cathedral.

The Canterbury Christmas Market strikes an ideal balance between atmosphere and size, showcasing robust local craftsmanship and an abundance of family-friendly activities.

Harrogate Christmas Fayre – North Yorkshire

The Harrogate Christmas Fayre, running from December 5 to 14, is perfect for those who prefer a more leisurely pace when soaking up the festive spirit.

The Harrogate Christmas Fayre, with its approximately 40 adorned chalets scattered throughout the spa town, is a chic, compact and naturally festive option.

Neil commented: “It is beautifully curated, easy to explore, and perfect for a festive weekend with a touch of class. Expect artisanal gifts, gourmet treats, and mulled wine breaks between boutique shops and cosy tearooms.”

The couple were notably absent from a crucial episode

The final stretch is nearly here for this year’s Married at First Sight UK couples, who tied the knot with complete strangers just weeks ago.

Recent episodes on E4 have shown some pairs flourishing as they’ve built connections, whilst others have endured emotional breakdowns, startling revelations and fierce rows.

With final vows looming, the remaining participants faced a crucial decision at Tuesday evening’s (November 4) final commitment ceremony about whether to remain in the experiment.

But in an unexpected twist, one couple failed to show up, prompting expert Mel Schilling to address the assembled group.

She said: “It’s been incredible to see all your journeys unfold with your time with us. This is the last time that you get to bring your marriage to the couch and share with us where you’re at at this pivotal stage in the experiment and make that final decision on whether to stay or leave”, reports OK!

“Before we begin, obviously you’ll all notice that Grace and Ashley are not with us today, they’ve had a rocky couple of weeks and as a result, felt they needed more time to reflect and they won’t be joining us today.”

The pair – who spent homestays week apart – had both been contemplating their future together, with Ashley removing his wedding band when audiences last saw him.

He admitted that he and Grace might be “too different”, whilst she became tearful and claimed she’d witnessed a side of Ashley that nobody else had seen. She also accused him of making her feel like she was the “problem” and that their marriage was “doomed”.

Grace referred back to earlier rows they’d had over Ashley wanting her to wear a dress for a particular dinner and offering to get her nails done, disputing the way she recalled those conversations.

“I would sit on that couch, hear him twisting things to be more positive and favourable to him, sometimes I take issue with him about something, and he’d be like, no I didn’t, and I’d be like, well how do I argue with you now?” she said.

“I felt really isolated,” she continued, becoming emotional as she spoke about her self-doubt and questioned whether she’d misunderstood their relationship.

“Why am I the only person that sees him this way? No, he is doing this, he wants me to feel apologetic, contrived, he wants to be begged for forgiveness so he can feel in control. It’s the self-doubt that’s getting me down,” she cried. “I’ve had enough.”

Meanwhile, Ashley confessed that he and Grace weren’t “in the best place”, adding: “We’ve both put so much into this, I don’t know what to do, every relationship takes compromise, but we’ve both compromised and now we’re at a stage where she’s now what I need and I’m not what she needs.

“I do have feelings for her, and I do care for her, but I need Grace to be a different person, and I feel like she needs me to be a different person.”

Taking off his wedding ring and expressing his feeling of being “out of options”, Ashley added: “I can’t physically do any more to prove to her who I am as a person.”

Married At First Sight UK airs at 9pm on E4.

Perhaps best-known for its association with Dracula and an annual goth festival, this cosy seaside town has been named the UK’s best value seaside town, and there’s plenty to do during the colder months

Winter can be an excellent time to explore the UK’s seaside towns. There’s nothing quite like windswept coastal walks, cosy pubs, and uncrowded destinations for the perfect cold weather weekend.

In a recent study by Which? one seaside town in Yorkshire was crowned the UK’s best value seaside break. Whitby, which sits on a long stretch of cliffs where the River Esk flows to the North Sea, scored five stars for food and accommodation in a survey of Which? readers, as well as four stars for tourist attractions and its seafront area.

Whitby has long been a popular destination for those with a fascination with the dark and macabre. Bram Stoker researched some of the novel Dracula while on holiday in Whitby. In the book it’s where the creature first arrives in England, climbing the steps to the graveyard of St Mary’s Church, which is next to the ruins of Whitby Abbey. Needless to say, this has become a popular tourist attraction for fans of gothic literature. Visitors can climb the 199 steps from the harbour, just as Dracula did in the novel, and enjoy views across Whitby and out to sea.

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The abbey, which dates back to the 7th century, was also home to one of the first English poets, Cædmon, and today it’s an English Heritage site. You can wander around the well-preserved ruins before visiting the museum, which has treasures such as medieval manuscripts and even a rare signed copy of Dracula.

One of the town’s biggest events is Whitby Goth Weekend, a twice-yearly event that tends to take place once in spring and once at Halloween. There’s a huge number of events going on, from live music to alternative markets, and you’ll spot hundreds of attendees decked out in gothic gear.

Explorer Captain James Cook also had a connection to Whitby, moving to the port town in the 18th-century and beginning his life as a merchant navy apprentice. At the Captain Cook Memorial Museum, you can learn about his life and his famous voyages to the South Pacific, and the exhibits are set in his former home, where he lived when not at sea.

Whitby Beach has a traditional seaside vibe, with colourful beach huts along the promenade, waterfront tearooms, and fish and chip shops. Along the River Esk you’ll find amusements, family-friendly attractions such as the Whitby Marine Discovery Centre, and shops selling souvenirs and sticks of rock. There are also several places offering a variety of boat trips, ranging from sunset cruises to whale-watching tours.

There’s a wide range of accommodation to choose from in and around Whitby, depending on whether you want a rural retreat or want to stay close to the sea. The White House Inn sits on the edge of North Yorkshire Moors National Park, while also offering sea views across the coast. This cosy inn features a pub with a changing seasonal menu and 11 rooms, with a standard room stay in November costing from £90 per night.

In the harbour area, The Marine Hotel is an excellent choice if you want to enjoy the town’s seaside charms. It features a seafood restaurant serving up Whitby lobster, crab, and other freshly caught delicacies, as well as seven cosy rooms with rates starting from £165 per night in November. You can even pick a room with a balcony to enjoy the fresh sea air and spectacular views.

And for the perfect way to round off a day at the seaside, grab fish and chips at The Fisherman’s Wife on the beachfront. You can either dine in, with the restaurant offering sea views, or brave the cold and enjoy chips from the takeaway while sitting on the beach.

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THE UK’s biggest one-day Christmas market is to return in just a few weeks after it was abruptly cancelled last year.

Thousands are expected to attend the event in a historic market town.

Shoppers will be able to choose from 120 stalls set up in the centre of Beverley in Yorkshire next month after council officials confirmed the event would be back in place this year.

Stalls at the Beverley Festival of Christmas will once again be brimming with seasonal gifts and local treats.

There will also be live entertainment, music and dancing – and, of course, an appearance from Santa and his reindeers – as well as birds of prey on display, and traditional brass bands.

The event had to be cancelled at the last-minute in 2024 after Storm Darragh caused chaos across the UK last year.

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Locals and visitors were left disappointed after council officials took the decision to cancel the market in the run up to the event after 34 flood warnings were issued across the country and a cold weather health alert was put in place.

At the time, a spokesperson for East Riding of Yorkshire Council said the event, which was established in 1995 by local shop owner John Bird, had involved six months of planning and the decision to cancel “had not been taken lightly”.

Announcing its return for 2025, councillor Nick Coultish, cabinet member for culture, tourism and leisure at the council, said the event is “the flagship tourism event for our region and is an important date in the calendar for businesses and traders”.

‘Hugely popular’

He added: “It is always a hugely popular event, with visitors from all over the UK coming to enjoy the festive stalls and entertainment. 

“The event will also provide a welcome boost to the local visitor economy at such a wonderful time of the year.”

The council said that Beverley’s historic centre will be “transformed into a magical Christmas shopper’s wonderland” for the event.

News of its return has prompted an outpouring of support and excitement with hundreds of locals and visitors commenting on Facebook.

One person posted: “I cannot wait to stand in this market. So excited.”

Another person wrote: “We will be there.”

A third person said: “Can’t wait. This is one of our fave Christmas markets.”

A fourth person was equally excited at the news the market is to return, posting: “Love Beverley. Nice place.”

A fifth said: “Will defo have to go!”

The festival will again be sponsored by The Beverley Arms, part of hospitality company Thwaites.

Rick Bailey, chairman at Thwaites, said: “We’re so proud that The Beverley Arms is once again part of The Beverley Festival of Christmas, it’s such a special celebration that brings the whole town together, showcases the very best of Beverley, and captures the true spirit of the season.”

This year’s event will run from 10am to 4pm on Sunday, 14 December.

Also making a return to Beverly this year is the Reindeer Rampage Christmas Trail, which is running from 1 November to December 31.

This is a popular event in the town with locals and visitors asked to find Santa‘s reindeer, which are “hiding” in shop windows in Beverley.

You can pick up a free map and reindeer mask from the Tourist Information Centre on Cross Street and find out more details here.

The market itself will take place over several areas in the town, including Saturday Market, and will also feature a parade to mark the start of the festival.

The parade will leave from Wednesday Market when the event opens at 10am and it will move down Toll Gavel to Saturday Market.

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Taking part in the parade will be feature Santa Claus, Rudolph and the rest of his reindeer, live music, comedy acts, steam punks, Bernese mountain dogs and much more.

This year’s event will take place on 14 December in Beverley

OUR Spotlight On column rounds up the best things to see and do in your favourite holiday destinations – and shines a light on some lesser known spots too.

This week, for our Halloween special, we look at Chester, which claims to be one of the UK’s spookiest destinations.

MUST SEE/DO

Whether you’re visiting around Halloween or not, you’ll still be able to learn about this city’s haunted history thanks to a year-round programme of nighttime tours with Chester Ghost Tours.

A local guide will steer you around some of Chester’s most eerie haunts as they recount spine-chilling tales of ghosts, ghouls and things that go bump in the night.

The tours last 90 minutes and cost £10 per adult, or £30 for a family of four.

HIDDEN GEMS

Liquor & Co may look like your ordinary, if rather sleek, bar but within this venue is another secret – an even more excellent bar. It’s only open to those in the know, however.

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Tell the bar staff that you’d like to “see the caretaker” and you’ll be taken to a plush seating area that serves scarily good cocktails.

For something unusual, Sick To Death tells the gory story of medicine through time.

Visitors can explore pestilence-ridden Diagnosis Alley, perform an autopsy and may even encounter the Grim Reaper.

The experience costs £8 for adults and £4.50 for kids.

BEST VIEW

The city walls offer an excellent vantage point to take in the main hub of Chester below.

The complete circuit stretches for about two miles.

Keep your eyes peeled for the ghost of a Roman legionnaire, which has been spotted between the amphitheatre and Newgate.

According to folklore, he fell in love with a local girl and frequently left his post to meet up with her. One night, her angry parents killed the soldiers left on guard.

The lovestruck soldier still haunts his post today.

RATED RESTAURANT

Keeping in line with the spooky theme, try Death By Tacos on Watergate Street.

The birria taco comes crammed full of slow-cooked beef that has been stewed in stout and is topped with grilled cheese, pink pickled onions and salsa verde.

The wings aren’t bad either, smothered in the restaurant’s spice blend

BEST BAR

The 1920s-themed Prohibition bar is a spectacular speakeasy, also on Watergate Street.

Inside are dark wooden bookshelves, red velvet curtains and sultry tones to accompany cocktails.

Try the Peanut Butter Old Fashioned, made from peanut butter-infused bourbon, maple syrup and aromatic bitters.

HOTEL PICK

The Pied Bull, a historic pub with rooms, is apparently home to a ghost that haunts its cellar.

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The rooms are far more appealing, however, with a cottage-like feel to them and cosy beds backed by floral wallpaper.

Double rooms cost from £133 with breakfast.

The United Kingdom’s King Charles III has stripped his brother, Andrew, of the title of prince and ordered him to leave his lavish residence near Windsor Castle, Buckingham Palace announced on Thursday. Observers say the Palace is finally taking decisive action over Andrew’s connections to the late sex offender, Jeffrey Epstein, and allegations that the two men sexually abused Virginia Giuffre when she was a teenager.

Andrew, 65, the second son of the late Queen Elizabeth and younger brother of King Charles, has faced growing scrutiny over his personal conduct and ties to Epstein. Earlier this month, he was pressured into giving up his title of Duke of York.

“I have decided, as I always have, to put my duty to my family and country first. I stand by my decision five years ago to stand back from public life,” Andrew said at the time. He also said he “vigorously den[ies] the accusations” against him.

Buckingham Palace hopes to be seen as taking a decisive step, drawing a line after years of compromising scandals. In 2022, Andrew was removed from numerous royal duties due to his connections to Epstein.

How did Andrew’s ties to Epstein come to light?

Born in 1960, Andrew was once one of the more popular members of the British royal family, known for his military service as a helicopter pilot during the Falklands War in 1982.

For years, however, Andrew’s personal antics have generated embarrassing headlines, testing the patience of the royal family. In 2024, for instance, court documents revealed that a close adviser on Andrew’s business affairs was a suspected Chinese spy.

But it was Andrew’s persistent ties to Jeffrey Epstein that ultimately forced King Charles’s hand and led to Andrew stepping down from his royal duties in 2019. Epstein died by suicide in a US prison in 2019 while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges.

In 2021, Virginia Giuffre – one of the most prominent accusers of Epstein – filed a lawsuit alleging rape and sexual abuse against then-Prince Andrew. She claimed she had been forced to have sex with him on multiple occasions when she was 17, a minor under US law.

Prince Andrew has always denied Giuffre’s allegations, even insisting that a now-infamous photograph that appeared to show them together had been doctored. But in 2022, he agreed to settle the lawsuit, costing him as much as $16m.

Virginia Giuffre died by suicide in April this year. She was 41 years old.

Earlier this month, British newspapers reported that Andrew had emailed Epstein in February 2011 – more than two months after the prince told the BBC he had severed all ties with his former associate.

The email was sent at a time of heightened media coverage of the Epstein scandal, with Andrew telling Epstein they were “in this together” and would “have to rise above it”.

These disclosures ultimately prompted Buckingham Palace’s response on Thursday.

What has Buckingham Palace said?

In a statement released on Thursday night, Buckingham Palace said the King’s brother is now to be known as Andrew Mountbatten Windsor.

He will no longer be styled “Prince” or “His Royal Highness (HRH)” and he has lost his dukedom, earldom, barony, military ranks and royal patronages.

It also announced that he is to be evicted from his residence, the sprawling Royal Lodge that was once home to the Queen Mother, near Windsor Castle, west of London.

“His lease on Royal Lodge has, to date, provided him with legal protection to continue in residence. Formal notice has now been served to surrender the lease and he will move to alternative private accommodation,” the palace statement said.

“These censures are deemed necessary… Their Majesties wish to make clear that their thoughts and utmost sympathies have been, and will remain with, the victims and survivors of any and all forms of abuse,” it added.

A palace source said the decision was taken by King Charles, but that he had the support of the wider family, including heir-to-the-throne Prince William, in a bid to limit reputational risks to the monarchy.

Elsewhere, culture secretary Lisa Nandy told the BBC’s Question Time programme that the king’s latest decision was a “truly brave, important, and correct step”, sending a “powerful message” to survivors of sexual abuse.

Why has Andrew been evicted from Royal Lodge?

In recent weeks, the British press has been rife with speculation about Andrew’s finances after The Times newspaper reported on October 21 that he had not paid rent on his 30-room mansion – known as Royal Lodge – for two decades.

It was revealed that he had a lease on the property stipulating a “peppercorn rent”: In return for carrying out renovations and maintaining the mansion, Andrew was paying a rent of “one peppercorn” each year.

In a rare political intervention, a British parliamentary committee on Wednesday questioned whether Andrew should still be living in the house, which is owned by the monarch and located 5km (3 miles) south of Windsor Castle.

On October 28, the BBC also revealed that Prince Andrew had hosted Jeffrey Epstein, Ghislaine Maxwell – Epstein’s associate, later jailed for sex trafficking – and Harvey Weinstein, the disgraced film producer convicted of rape, at Royal Lodge.

The three visited Andrew’s home in 2006 to celebrate his daughter’s 18th birthday, just two months after a United States arrest warrant had been issued for Epstein over the sexual assault of a minor.

Where will Andrew live now?

It is understood that Andrew will move to a property on the private Sandringham Estate in Norfolk, which will be privately funded by his brother, the king.

The wider Sandringham Estate covers approximately 8,100 hectares (20,000 acres) with 240 hectares (600 acres) of gardens, and the Palace has not stipulated which property he will stay in.

It is also understood that Andrew’s move to Sandringham will take place “as soon as practicable”.

His ex-wife, Sarah Ferguson – who still lives at Royal Lodge with him – will also move out of Royal Lodge and make her own living arrangements.

Have other royals in the UK been stripped of their titles in the past?

The stripping of Prince Andrew’s royal titles by King Charles III is unusual in modern British history.

Other royals have relinquished titles voluntarily – such as Princess Diana giving up HRH following her divorce from King Charles – and King Edward VIII, who abdicated from the throne in 1936 to marry Wallis Simpson, an American woman who had been divorced twice.

Others have lost their privileges for political reasons – such as Ernest Augustus, Duke of Cumberland, for siding with Germany in World War I – but there has not been a case of a reigning monarch or immediate family being stripped of their status for scandal-related reasons.

In that sense, Andrew’s case is the most serious demotion of a senior British royal in recent memory.

The Derbyshire Peak District villages of Ashopton and Derwent were lost forever when they were submerged as part of the Derwent Valley scheme to create Ladybower Reservoir

“People come up to me and say isn’t it beautiful around here. But it’s nothing to what it was. It’s all man-made now.”

Those are the words of Morris Cottrill, whose family lived in the village of Derwent before it was lost to the water.

Along with nearby Ashopton, the beautiful Peak District village of Derwent found itself deliberately subsumed on March 18, 1943, when great torrents were unleashed.

As the water level rose higher, buildings that had stood since the 17th century slowly disappeared. Once the 6,310 million gallons of water had flowed in, only the spire of Derwent’s St John and St James church could be seen above the surface.

The church had held its final service the day before the Chairman of the Derwent Valley Water Board, Alderman Sir Albert Atkey, closed the outlet valve and triggered the deluge.

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The villages had been full of life and history before their demolition. The impressive Derwent Hall dated back to 1672 and was, at one point, owned by the Duke of Norfolk. Ashopton was larger and busier than Derwent and boasted a coaching inn, a post office, shop, a chapel and a garage as well as houses and farms.

Despite the furious protests of locals, the buildings of Derwent and Ashopton were purchased compulsorily by the Derwent Valley Water Board between 1935 and 1945. The villagers were moved out and rehoused in an estate at Yorkshire Bridge, in 62 houses built at a cost of £65,758.

“The last church service must have been incredibly sad,” said Kathleen Greenan, Chair of Bamford History Group. “Those villagers gave up a whole way of life. Most of them were rehoused in an estate. Everything must have been completely different for them – they would have been self-sufficient until then.”

Before the water swept over the villages many of the buildings were demolished and bodies were exhumed from the churchyards.

The one remaining visible monument to the lost villages, the spire, was demolished in 1947 over safety concerns. Too many people had been risking their lives by swimming out to the strange shape in the water.

Several years after the Ladybower Reservoir began providing water to the people of the Peak District, the River Noe was diverted into it to meet the rising demands of the thirsty locals, further subsuming Derwent and Ashopton.

Despite this, the villages have been seen again. In fact, they are reappearing with increased regularity.

During periods of drought, when the water level falls, the crumbled remains of the villages can once again be seen.

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The remarkably depleted water levels in 2018 attracted a record-breaking number of visitors down onto the reservoir beds and to the ruins.

Charles Hanson, proprietor of Hansons Auctioneers who sold a collection of postcards taken in the village in the 1930s, said: “It’s hard to believe in today’s world, where conservation is so important, that the government would allow a fine 17th century hall, a Victorian steepled church built on the site of a 14th century chapel, a toll cottage, a Georgian coaching inn and two picturesque villages full of cottages to be submerged under water.

“The history books tell us that there was strong opposition to the move but the authorities insisted more water was needed to serve Derby, Nottingham, Leicester and Sheffield. Consequently, construction of the dam got underway in 1901.

“How would people feel today if the Government passed an Act of Parliament to put their home under a reservoir?”

As well as the prospect of spying Derbyshire’s answer to Atlantis, tourists are drawn to Ladybower by another intriguing feature.

A giant ‘plughole’ sits at the southern end of the dam. Two fishermen recently caused a stir when they were filmed sailing perilously close to the hole, which sucks water down in a great vortex.

While people joked online that it provides a direct route to Australia, Severn Trent Water, which owns the reservoir, did not see the funny side of the near miss with the spillways.

“If somebody fell in, they would very seriously hurt themselves,” a spokeswoman said. “They would also find themselves stuck because access to the river has a grille, so they would need a professional rescue team to get them out.”

The Shambles in York is a magical spot, particularly when the nights draw in and the Christmas lights get switched on. Many of the structures lining the street today trace their origins back to the late 14th century.

A street in one of Britain’s oldest cities, York, is a captivating spot brimming with unique shops, cosy pubs, and lively bars.

The Shambles, as it’s affectionately known, is a labyrinth of winding, narrow lanes nestled in the heart of North Yorkshire. It transforms into a magical place when the nights grow longer and the Christmas lights twinkle.

At the middle of the area lies a lane actually named the Shambles, renowned as possibly the best-preserved medieval street globally, even earning a mention in the 1086 literary sensation, the Domesday Book.

Many of the structures lining the street today trace their origins back to the late 14th century. The name ‘Shambles’ is believed to have evolved from ‘Shammel’, an Anglo-Saxon term for the shelves that were once a common sight in the open shopfronts. While the ancient name and buildings persist, the purpose of most shops has evolved over time.

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The butchers who once busily chopped, skinned, and portioned meat here have long since departed. The only remnants of their trade are the meat hooks they used to display their goods on the shopfronts. Nowadays, the Shambles accommodates a variety of businesses. Still, its medieval overhanging buildings and tight alleyways remain intact, offering visitors a sense of stepping back in time.

During my university days, I spent three years in York, witnessing the Shambles transform with the changing seasons and times of day. At Christmas, the streets were bustling with eager shoppers seeking a bargain and a warm pastry to ward off the cold.

During this bustling period, it might be wise to head to one of the quieter yet equally enchanting streets on the other side of town until the crowds thin out in the evening.

In the summer, the Shambles are filled with the sound of busking students, hen parties, and day-trippers there to sample some of York’s pubs. Whether the widely circulated claim that the city has a pub for every day of the year is indeed true takes far longer than a day, a long weekend, or even a three-year degree to verify.

This is largely because you’ll likely find yourself repeatedly visiting the superb House of Trembling Madness.

My favourite time to visit was in the dead of night, after a stop at one of these many pubs or the now sadly closed and much-missed Willow – a delightfully grubby club/Chinese restaurant. In certain sections of the Shambles, you can touch both sides of the street with your arms outstretched. The best time to test your wingspan is once all the other visitors have headed home.

In recent years, the narrow lane has become saturated with wizard-themed shops, thanks to its striking resemblance to the fictional Diagon Alley from Harry Potter. When the relentless peddling of magical merchandise becomes overwhelming, visitors can retreat to the shrine of Margaret Clitherow.

Step inside this peaceful sanctuary and you’ll find respite from the bag-wielding mayhem that’s left firmly outside. The shrine welcomes the public throughout the week and holds Mass at 10am each Saturday.

A quick walk through one of the Shambles’ snickelways (narrow alleyways) brings you to the Shambles Market, an open-air venue selling food and various goods. TikToker That Girl Fleurr, who explores destinations around the UK, recently declared the Shambles ‘the most magical street’ in Britain in a video. It’s a sentiment that’s difficult to challenge.

Jerry Rebbeck, who runs Wheelwrights York, told the Express: “Many of the buildings in the centre of York are centuries old, and have a spooky charm about them – walking down Micklegate at night feels like walking through a ghostly storybook.

“Within the city centre, historic buildings such as 85 Micklegate, a late medieval timber-framed terraced building, loom over the narrow street and look particularly eerie in the moonlight. Walking down the Shambles, famed for its likeness to Harry Potter’s Diagon Alley, you can see ghostly-looking old buildings such as 37 The Shambles that cast long shadows and add to the city’s paranormal feel. It’s these atmospheric streets and striking old buildings that help make York a picturesque backdrop for a Halloween weekend.”

CENTER Parcs has revealed a multi-million pound Christmas experience at one of their parks this year.

The site in Suffolk has invested £2million to transform its Winter Wonderland, and its opening next month.

Elveden Forest has upgraded certain areas of the park for Christmas, and has added its Woodland Workshop.

From November 7, families will get the chance to meet Santa and his elves who are hard at work before the big day.

You can also get a glimpse of Santa while enjoying brunch at Huck’s, or join the team for a festive dance along to Christmas tunes at Santa’s Greetings.

The wooden chalet will have a snow-capped roof and be wrapped in pine decorations next to a huge Christmas tree.

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There’s a new Christmas Shop too, filled with festive gifts, bespoke decorations, souvenirs and hand-painted baubles.

When the weather gets chilly, guests can warm up in the Tipi, enjoy a hot chocolate, mince pies, traditional sausage rolls, Bratwurst, and Christmas tree-shaped waffles.

Santa’s Woodland Village has been refreshed and visitors can enjoy the new seasonal displays.

It’s there where guests will find the new Snow Zone, a giant snow globe where families can step inside for a festive photo.

Other attractions include the Enchanted Light Garden which is essentially a festive light trail which is open from 4PM-9PM every day.

There are also activities like the Elf Pyjama Party, and festive craft workshops throughout the day.

Lots of activities are included in the price of a break over the festive period – and you can even pre-order decorations to dress up the lodge too.

You can book to stay in Center Parcs’ hotels or apartment, to treehouses, and the newly introduced premium lodges.

If you still want to book, Sun Travel found that a family of four can book a Woodland Lodge for four nights in Elveden Forest from November 17 to November 21 for £629 – which works out at £39.31pppn.

Of course there aren’t just festive activites, at Elveden Forest you can also check out the Subtropical Swimming Paradise which is head to 29.5C.

So you won’t have to worry about being cold while swimming in a number of pools, heading down flumes or the a ‘Tropical Cyclone’ slide and checking out the water rapids.

The site recently announced that it will refurbish Venture Cove in The Subtropical Swimming Paradise, with the site expecting to reopen the attraction on December 19.

The Aqua Sana Spa on-site also underwent refurbishment in 2023, with a new £6.5million Forest Spa opening with steam rooms, saunas, a heated outdoor pool, an ice cave and a number of relaxation rooms.

Other activities include golf, archery, dance classes, inflatable football, glow-in-the-dark badminton and table tennis, to winter workshops.

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This new attraction opened at Elveden in summer 2025…

Center Parcs’ new Treetop Glider experience allows guests to glide above the forest canopy, passing views of its lake and the surrounding countryside.

Riders will have to take a leap of faith from a treehouse nestled in the woods, to then glide along a 180-metre track.

Along the route there will be twists and turns, as well as views of the Suffolk countryside and Elveden’s lake.

To go on the ride, guests must be between 1.1metres and 1.87metres tall and each rider will get two laps of the course, per booking.

The experience opened on September 2, 2025.

Set within the Breckland, an area of national importance, there are a number of other treetop adventures at Elveden Forest, including Aerial Adventure, where guests are secured to a harness and get to swing through the trees.

The aerial rope course gets gradually higher, before it finishes with a zip wire experience.

For more Center Parcs upgrades, check out the first pictures of the holiday park coming soon to Scotland.

And for anyone heading to the holiday park soon, Center Parcs has introduced a huge change to check in times.

A STUNNING UK railway route has officially welcomed back passengers for their journeys – following a £1.4m revamp.

Although this route spans only 26 miles, the overall stretch takes approximately an hour to complete.

The Conwy Valley Line runs across Llandudno and Blaenau Ffestiniog, showcasing breathtaking Welsh scenery including waterfalls and rolling hillsides.

On Monday, October 27, the popular railway line welcomed back its passengers.

Network Rail carried out four weeks worth of intensive engineering work.

This forms part of a £1.4million scheme, intended to strengthen the railway’s resilience during harsh weather conditions.

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Furthermore, crews have cleared 600,000m2 of vegetation and removed dangerous trees along a track spanning 54 miles.

It is hoped that this will stop fallen trees obstructing the line in the event of a future storm.

In addition to this, Network Rail also tested out an innovative new rail treatment for the Conwy Valley Line.

A gel solution was applied to the rails, which is hoped to break down leaf contamination.

Overall, this gel remains effective for up to seven days before then reactivating with rain.

Network Rail said in a statement: “The Conwy Valley line is one of the most picturesque in Wales, but also one of the most weather-exposed.

“In the past decade, storms have forced the line to close for more than 500 days – disrupting passengers and the transportation of freight goods.”

Describing the rail line, an enthusiastic passenger wrote on TripAdvisor: “It’s utterly spectacular and crams more into an hour than the ECML does into four.

“One of the nicest little tours you can do in the UK is a loop of Chester-Llandudno Jn-Blaenau-Porthmadog-Machynlleth-Shrewsbury-Chester, though you’ll probably need to use a bus rather than the FfR for the middle bit at present.”

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Earlier this month, Brits planning to head home for Christmas were warned to brace for weeks of rail chaos.

Commuters and holidaymakers will face more than a fortnight of disruption from Christmas Day through to the New Year.

This will see major stations all caught in the crossfire of an engineering shutdown.

Network Rail says the work will boost the power supply to trains and strengthen the railway’s foundations, but passengers can expect plenty of pain before the gain.

Meanwhile, it was recently revealed that a new £2.7million train station is coming to the UK – in a huge boost for a tiny mining town.

A revised plan to modernise train travel in the north of Newcastle-under-Lyme was completed and awaiting council approval.

Developed by East Midlands Railway and National Rail – the £2.7m project is backed by Kidsgrove Town Deal Board.

From the 18th century, Kidsgrove grew around coal mining, although the pits have now closed.

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The original proposals for the new railway were scrapped due to historical mining issues which would have cost up to £13 million to sort out.

A revised project to upgrade its railway station is only awaiting formal approval from Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council reported RailBusinessDaily.

The village of Inverie in Scotland is thought to be the UK’s most remote village and it’s home to the most remote pub too a place that visitors never seem to tire of visiting

During the Covid lockdown, residents of Inverie faced greater challenges than most communities across Britain.

The small village of roughly 120 people depends entirely on its ferry service for everything from food and post to medicine and freight. When Western Isles Cruises cannot run the ferry to Inverie – which happens frequently due to poor weather conditions – nothing can enter or leave the settlement.

That’s because Inverie in Scotland has no road access whatsoever, only a gruelling two- to three-day trek over the mountains. The ferry service is therefore the villagers’ sole lifeline to essential supplies.

During the coronavirus pandemic, the usual 28 weekly sailings were slashed to just three – operating only on Tuesday, Thursday and Friday.

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“The pier has drop-off bins and a container plus many local residents would be keenly waiting the arrival of their supplies. In normal times they would create a human chain to help unload the boat up the steps and onto the pier but during Covid they couldn’t,” a blog on the ferry service’s website reads, reports the Express.

“So the skipper and crew unloaded the boat whilst the locals looked on at a distance. We didn’t need Joe Wicks as the workout was intense, especially at low tide! The crew were never so slim.”

The main village on the Knoydart Peninsula, Inverie sits on the northern shore of Loch Nevis. Whilst numerous villages in that region are isolated, Inverie is world-record-breakingly so.

It holds its own Guinness World Record for the Most Remote Village in the UK to prove it. It earned this distinction because there are no roads leading to it – you can only reach it by boat from Mallaig, or by tackling an arduous 16-mile trek through extremely isolated countryside.

Whilst getting there presents a challenge, the journey proves worthwhile for two compelling reasons: the stunning scenery and the local boozer.

The John Muir Trust, who own the land, are currently rewilding sections of Knoydart to restore its natural state.

“Centuries of burning and over-grazing by sheep and deer have damaged the habitat here. Over the last 30 years, we’ve planted native tree species and controlled deer numbers to improve biodiversity. Now we’re seeing the natural regeneration of birch, oak, hazel, rowan, Scots pine and other tree species,” the Trust’s website reads.

“As the trees have regenerated on Knoydart, native wildlife has returned. This includes pine marten, roe deer, bats and many types of woodland birds. There are also otters, foxes, water voles, buzzards and different types of eagle. Knoydart is also notable for a wide range of species in its wet heaths, grasslands and snow beds. We expect to see more biodiversity as the woodland continues to expand.”

Inverie village comprises little more than the renowned Old Forge – which bills itself as “the Remotest Pub in Mainland Britain”. “We are proud to be one of a few community-owned pubs in Scotland. Whisky, real ale, traditional music and amazing service are our passions,” the Forge claims online.

There are very few with a bad word to say about the pub, which stands as a welcoming beacon of warmth, open almost every day of the year, regardless of the weather.

“Heaven on earth. Had an amazing meal for my hubby’s 67th birthday recently. Such a friendly atmosphere and the food was excellent too – fish and chips for me, macaroni cheese for hubby. Freshly cooked and delicious! This visit was sublime in every way, the scenery wasn’t bad either,” one satisfied customer wrote on Tripadvisor.

Another added: “No visit to Inverie is complete without a visit to The Old Forge. What the community have done to the place since the buyout is outstanding, it is a credit to all who have worked so hard to revive this fantastic place to its former glory. Always a pleasure to visit and partake in wonderful food and drink, all served by a very enthusiastic group of folk. Hope to be back one day. Keep up the good work.”

The Knoydart Snug is operated by the pub and has a handful of beds available to those who get stranded in Inverie. With a lively pub and stunning scenery on your doorstep, you may find yourself hoping that the weather turns.

The simplest route to Inverie involves a scenic train ride to Mallaig, followed by a short ferry trip. The direct Glasgow to Mallaig train journey on the West Highland Line, run by ScotRail, is a treat in itself with stunning Scottish views.

The journey spans roughly 160 km and takes about 5 hours and 15 minutes, with multiple services operating each day.

THE UK’s biggest indoor tropical waterpark is about to get even better.

The new owners of the enormous attraction in Staffordshire have promised ‘upgrades’ and ‘grand plans’ coming as soon as next month.

Waterworld Aqua Park in Stoke-on-Trent is known for its thrilling slides, pools, and best of all, being 30C even in winter.

Earlier this year, Waterworld Leisure Limited and Waterworld Leisure Group Limited was bought in a multi-million pound sale by a European company, Looping Group.

Waterworld’s managing director Wayne Goodall said: “Recent years have seen big changes at the resort, and we are all excited about this new phase. With the new owners, we will bring experience, quality and security to the next level.

“Waterworld itself has already had a total overhaul of its Water’s Edge Restaurant, focusing on a new, high-quality menu and a reorganised, speed-of-service system to give our guests more time in the pool and less time queuing for their lunch.

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“There are significant upgrade plans for the pool hall installations this November too and guests will start to see lots of improvements for themselves, very quickly, and grander plans are also in the pipeline.”

Waterworld has 30 different rides and attractions including Thunderbolt, the UK’s first trap door drop waterslide, of course there’s a main pool and river rapids too.

The Space Bowl is another popular one, where visitors are thrown around a “UFO” before ending up in the splash pool beneath.

Other rides include Nucleus – a water rollercoaster – as well as Stormchaser and Cyclone.

It’s not all about pools though as The Waterworld Leisure Resort also has Adventure Mini Golf with two 18-hole, tiki-themed mini golf courses, and M Club Spa and gym.

In 2024, £13million was spent on behind-the-scenes upgrades to the waterpark.

The year before in 2023, one of the new additions was the £250,000 immersive play village.

Inside the Adventure Mini Village is its own mini Staffordshire Barge, The Old Vic Theatre and kids can even create their own pottery in the Kiln.

There’s also a post office, vets, doctors, farm shop, construction site and ice cream van.

A restaurant, cafe and gift shop are also of course on-site, and an outdoor pool which will reopen in spring.

The Waterworld site isn’t the only one owned by Looping Group – it acquired Drayton Manor in August 2020 and West Midlands Safari Park in 2018.

Currently, Waterworld is offering tickets to the water park for £19.99 (up until November 3, 2025).

To make the most of your visit, you can get one visit to Waterworld Aqua Park and one visit to West Midlands Safari Park for £35pp.

The offer is called the Splash ‘N’ Safari Ticket and is available to buy up until February 1, 2026.

Other combination tickets include the Waterworld and Adventure Mini Golf Combo ticket.

This is valid for a one single admission to Waterworld and one round of 18 holes at Adventure Mini Golf for £30pp.

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One writer visited the ‘world’s best waterpark’ just three hours from the UK and it’s like being on another planet.

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A small coastal town in the north of the UK boasts a unique claim to fame – it’s home to the world’s shortest street. Now the street and town have been cut off by the collapse of Eastern Airways

Commercial flights to one of the most remote airports in the country have been halted, effectively stranding the aviation hub.

UK domestic carrier Eastern Airways has suspended operations and cancelled all of its flights, delivering a major blow to the charming Scottish seaside town of Wick, which relied heavily on the airline for connectivity.

The UK Civil Aviation Authority said customers of the airline, which operated regional routes from airports across the UK, are being urged not to travel to the airport, as flights will no longer be operating.

According to its website, destinations served by Eastern Airways included Aberdeen, Humberside, London Gatwick, Newquay, Teesside International and Wick. All of those airports continue to be served by other airlines—except Wick John O’Groats, which sits at the northernmost tip of mainland UK.

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The only other carrier listed on FlightRadar as serving Wick is Gama Aviation, a specialist business aviation company. Wick Airport declined to tell the Mirror whether any other airlines were currently operating there.

That likely means the remote airport—and the town beside it—are effectively cut off by air, a significant setback given the 15-hour train journey required to reach London from Wick, and the eight-hour trip to Glasgow.

It’s also a loss for visitors to the small town, a charming coastal spot brimming with dramatic scenery and maritime heritage.

Nestled in Caithness, Wick is an ancient Viking stronghold. Once Europe’s busiest herring harbour, this diminutive coastal community now attracts visitors from around the globe for its striking fortress ruins, rugged coastline, and abundant wildlife.

“Around three miles north of Wick, the dramatic 15th- to 17th-century ruins of Sinclair and Girnigoe castles rise steeply from a needle-thin promontory,” proclaims VisitScotland, the region’s official tourism organisation.

“There’s a scenic clifftop walk to the castle via Noss Head Lighthouse from the tiny fishing village of Staxigoe. Along the way, visitors can spot a wide variety of seabirds and puffins before reaching a beautiful beach at Sinclair Bay, popular for windsurfing and sand-yachting.”

Holidaymakers seeking something truly unique often visit Ebenezer Place, officially recognised as the world’s shortest street.

Measuring just 6ft 9in long (2.06m), the road is so small it holds only one address—Mackay’s Hotel’s No. 1 Bistro.

Beautifully located beside the Wick River, the restaurant serves dishes made with local produce, along with afternoon tea, cocktail masterclasses, and, naturally, whisky. In 2006, the street—maintained by Highland Council as the road authority—earned a Guinness World Record as the shortest street in the world.

“When Alexander Sinclair returned from America in 1883 after making his fortune, he built Mackay’s Hotel on the corner of Union Street and River Street,” the hotel’s website explains. “The council instructed him to name the short end of the building, as they considered it a separate street. Ebenezer Place subsequently appeared in town records from 1887.”

In an online statement, Highlands and Islands Airports Limited (HIAL), which owns Wick John O’Groats Airport, said: “HIAL was made aware via press coverage that Eastern Airways has filed for administration. We will work closely with The Highland Council, which manages the Public Service Obligation (PSO) route from Wick, previously operated by Eastern Airways. Wick John O’Groats Airport will continue to operate as normal, and passengers should contact the airline for information regarding booked flights.”

Eastern Airways customers are being urged to make alternative travel arrangements via other airlines, rail, or coach operators. On Monday morning, Eastern Airways (UK) Ltd filed a notice of intention to appoint an administrator at the Insolvency and Companies Court, part of the High Court.

Selina Chadha, consumer and markets director at the UK Civil Aviation Authority, said: “We urge passengers planning to fly with this airline not to go to the airport, as all Eastern Airways flights are cancelled. Eastern Airways customers should visit the Civil Aviation Authority’s website for the latest information.”