UKs

A group of pub reviewers ‘one of the oldest pubs in England’ and they were blown away by its history – the Grade II-listed building claims to date back to 1189

Pub fans have shared their verdict on “one of the best pubs in England“, and were absolutely staggered by its history. Known under the handle @thosepubguys on social media, the group travel the country , sampling pubs and rating them online.

In a latest clip, they descended upon Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem in Nottingham, prompting them to wonder: “Is this the oldest pub in England?” Their Instagram caption declared: “This pub ranks 2nd in our list of best pubs in the country, and you can see why! There is so so so much history. It is literally built into the side of a cliff with secret tunnels to Nottingham Castle above it!”

During the footage, they guide viewers through the establishment and its passageways, recounting legends and historical tales.

The Grade II-listed premises is believed to trace back to 1189, though certain records indicate it might have been founded several centuries afterwards.

According to History Hit: “The pub’s name derives from King Richard the Lionheart and his men gathering there before journeying to Jerusalem in 1189 AD.”

“It was also said to be a local hideout for the legendary outlaw, Robin Hood. Indeed, the word ‘trip’ in the name is thought to refer to a stop in a journey, rather than the journey itself, marking out the pub as somewhere people would stop at on a long pilgrimage, for instance.”

This distinctive watering hole features a compact cave network within, hewn from the sandstone rock. Connected to Nottingham Castle, the tunnel network has served as a clandestine route in and out of the fortress for hundreds of years.

The statement continues: “In one of the pub’s upstairs buildings is a small model of a wooden ship, known as the cursed galleon.

“It is said that a number of people who cleaned the ship all met untimely and unexplained deaths, so landlords have since refused to let anyone clean it, and have instead put the ship into a glass cabinet.

“Elsewhere, the pub houses the ‘pregnancy chair’, an old chair which was said to increase a woman’s chances of becoming pregnant when she sat in it.”

Reacting to their video, one viewer commented: “Always wanted to visit this pub.”

Someone else added: “My favourite city pub until I moved away.”

A third person said: “I’ve only just realised I’ve never been to Nottingham! Need to fix that, looks amazing.”

Another viewer added: “That’s really interesting, steeped in history.”

A HUGE new family campsite is opening at a historic UK holiday park this summer.

Billing Aquadrome in Northampton is one of the oldest holiday parks in the UK dating back to 1945 when it opened shortly after World War II.

Sitting on 235 acres the resort has everything from a caravan site and funfair to a marina.

And now it is reintroducing its family camping offering for the 2026 season, after undergoing a massive revamp.

In the refreshed family camping area, guests will find 150 electric pitches as well as an amenities block and a play area.

Nikki Rathie, holidays director at Billing Aquadrome, said: “The return of camping for 2026 is something we know many families have been eagerly awaiting.

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“By reintroducing a premium family camping experience, we’re able to offer a much-loved family holiday experience at Billing Aquadrome which complements the other holiday styles on offer.

“This launch marks an exciting new chapter for the park following a year of major investment and regeneration.”

The park is also undergoing a massive £17million regeneration.

This includes new restaurants, the waterside Lake Club, Willow Lakes Aquapark, a BMX pump track, a Himalayan Adventure Golf Course and Adventure Island.

There is a newly opened Zen Den too, for families needing to escape the noise.

By the end of this year, a new indoor entertainment venue will also open.

Campers will also get access to all of Billing Aquadrome’s attractions such as the indoor swimming pool, which has a toddlers’ splash zone and a flume slide.

And guests can also enjoy a programme of activities and live performances including drive-in movie nights, Tough Mudder, an aqua assault course and paddleboard hire.

Guests won’t be charged extra for bringing a dog, having a gazebo or pup tent or any extra equipment.

There is a premium camping experience available as well with 150 electric pitches measuring eight metres by 10 metres.

Bookings for the new family campsite launch on March 26.

However, from February 17, families can sign up to be the first to know when bookings go live.

As part of the launch, 26 families from this sign-up list will each win a three-night break.

When it comes to the cost per night, prices will vary but current pitches available to book on Billing Aquadrome’s website cost from £25 a night during the summer holidays.

If you don’t fancy camping, Billing Aquadrome also has an array of other accommodation types including glamping.

For example, you could stay in one of their static caravans for two nights (midweek) for £129.

And for convenience when staying, there is an on-site shop, hair and beauty salon and a laundrette.

In other holiday park news, UK holiday park with its own shopping village, theatre and golf course plunges into administration.

Plus, the nine most popular Hols From £9.50 holiday parks of last year – as bookings open for 2026.

The sandy beach in one of the sunniest parts of the UK has been ranked 15th on Tripadvisor’s Best of the Best beaches worldwide, beating destinations in Turkey, Indonesia and Greece

A breathtaking sandy beach in one of Britain’s sunniest corners has earned a spot on a prestigious list of the world’s finest coastal destinations.

Yaverland Beach at Sandown on the Isle of Wight has secured its place on Tripadvisor’s Best of the Best list, unveiled this morning. Claiming the No. 15 position in its first appearance, it outranks beaches in Turkey, Indonesia and Greece. Celebrated as a jewel in Britain’s coastal crown, Yaverland Beach features an expansive, golden, dog-friendly stretch with crystal-clear, shallow waters and striking multi-coloured cliffs.

With top-notch facilities on site and the award-winning The Beach Cafe nearby, it makes for an ideal day out throughout the year.

There’s solid reasoning behind why Yaverland deserves a visit. The Met Office has recently named the Isle of Wight Britain’s sunniest location, with inhabitants of this southern haven enjoying an average of five hours of sunshine daily, reports the Express.

This stands in stark contrast to the UK’s gloomiest spot, Lowther Hill in Scotland, which manages just shy of 2 hours and 45 minutes of daily sun.

Since last May, the brightest spot in the nation’s brightest region has officially been Shanklin, a beloved seaside destination on the island’s eastern shore that’s witnessed a surge in visitor numbers lately. Sandown lies merely 2.5 miles along the coast from Shanklin, meaning it’s clearly absorbing plenty of sunshine too.

The picturesque Sandown Bay earned the title of Britain’s favourite beach from Countryfile Magazine readers back in 2019. The stunning stretch spans eight miles of coastline linking Sandown and Shanklin.

Capitalising on this glorious setting and beautiful shoreline, a local community group is currently constructing a new tidal sea pool at Yaverland. Billed as “Olympic-sized and accessible”, it would mark the first development of its kind in the UK for a hundred years, according to the organisation.

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Another remarkable local attraction is Shanklin Chine – a striking, largely concealed tourist destination that carves through the clifftops overlooking the Shanklin stretch of beach before descending onto the sand. A chine refers to a stream eroding into soft cliff faces, with Shanklin’s example formed over the past 10,000 years, extending 400m with an impressive 32m vertical drop. This wooded coastal gorge features waterfalls, woodland, and abundant greenery, with pathways and walkways offering paid entry for tourists.

This coastal location has welcomed numerous distinguished guests, including Charles Dickens, poet John Keats, American poet Longfellow, Lewis Carroll, and Charles Darwin, who penned portions of his work Origin of the Species there.

Top 10 Beaches in the World for 2026 according to Tripadvisor

1. Isla Pasion – Cozumel, Mexico

Good for Private island oasis, crystal-clear waters, marine life encounters, and snorkeling, which travelers can book through this Catamaran Snorkel Adventure to El Cielo and The Money Bar Beach experience.

Best time to go: November-April

Unique features: Protected coral reefs, sea turtle nesting sites, exclusive day-trip destination

2. Elafonissi Beach – Crete, Greece

Good for: Pink sand phenomenon, shallow lagoons, protected nature reserve, and can be easily accessed from Chania through the Elafonissi Beach Trip from Chania tour.

Best time to go: May & September

Unique features: Rare pink sand created by crushed shells

3. Balos Lagoon – Kissamos, Greece

Good for: Turquoise lagoon waters, dramatic landscapes, and Instagram-worthy vistas like this Balos & Gramvousa Luxury Catamaran Sailing Cruise from Kissamos experience.

Best time to go: April-June, September-October

Unique features: Former pirate hideout, protected Natura 2000 site

4. Eagle Beach – Eagle Beach, Aruba

Good for: Pristine white sand, watersports paradise, activities like this 3-Hour Electric Scooter Island Tour in Arubadivi.

Best time to go: April-August

Unique features: Sea turtle nesting ground, iconic Ffofoti trees

5. Praia da Falésia – Algarve, Portugal

Good for: Ochre cliffs with spectacular views that can be experienced during this Benagil And Dolphins Tour.

Best time to go: April-October

Unique features: Dramatic red cliff formations

6. Banana Beach – Ko He, Thailand

Good for: Crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs with amazing snorkeling that travelers can book through this Banana Beach Snorkeling Adventure.

Best time to go: November-March

Unique features: Part of Racha Islands, premier diving destination

7. La Jolla Cove – California, USA

Good for: Sea lion colonies, underwater park, kayaking adventures like this Sea Caves Kayak Tour.

Best time to go: March-May, September-November

Unique features: Protected marine reserve, year-round wildlife viewing

8. La Pelosa Beach – Sardinia, Italy

Good for: Caribbean-like waters, ancient watchtower views that can be experienced through this Half Day Catamaran Tour to La Pelosa with Aperitif tour.

Best time to go: June-September

Unique features: 16th-century Torre della Pelosa

9. Manly Beach – Sydney, Australia

Good for: Surf culture, beachside promenade, a scenic Sydney Harbour Ferry Ride.

Best time to go: September-May

Unique features: Historic surfing beach, pine tree-lined Corso

10. Boulders Beach Penguin Colony – Simon’s Town, South Africa

Good for: African penguin sanctuary, granite boulders that travelers can experience during this Table Mountain, Boulders Penguins and Cape point Day Tour.

Best time to go: September-April

Unique features: One of few mainland penguin colonies globally

Drayton Manor has launched a K-Pop themed takeover for half term, and while it had some fun moments, our favourite attraction was worlds away from the glittering world of K-Pop music

If you have a child of primary school age, the soundtrack to your life is likely to be the cheery sounds of K-Pop. K-Pop, which stands for Korean Pop, has been on many music fans’ radar for years now, but 2026 is likely to be a big year for the genre.

Not only has K-Pop Demon Hunters become the most-watched original title in Netflix history with 500 million views – quite a few of which have come from my house – but K-Pop bands have been all over the charts. In August 2025, a record seven K-Pop tracks made the top 40 singles chart, including BLACKPINK and Stray Kids. A recent tour announcement by BTS saw a Taylor Swift-style clamber for tickets and UK dates sold out in 30 minutes.

So, it wasn’t a huge surprise to see that Drayton Manor, a theme park in the West Midlands, would be hosting a K-Pop Takeover for February half term. My daughter was thrilled to be going to a K-Pop themed day and wore her favourite HUNTR/X hoodie for the occasion. And of course, Spotify was cued up with an appropriate playlist on the way.

While the park isn’t fully open during February half term, in addition to the K-POP activities the ticket price includes Thomas Land, a handful of rides, plus the zoo. With tickets starting at £19.90, the price reflects that you won’t get the full theme park experience.

We arrived just in time for ‘K-Pop games’ on the park’s main stage, and a very enthusiastic entertainer was leading some kids in a game of red light, green light, followed by some singing along to the tune of Golden. There was also a K-Pop themed dance workshop later on, with excited kids dancing in front of the sparkly stage.

Other than some Korean fried chicken being served in the burger bar, and some Korean souvenirs in the gift shop, there wasn’t a huge amount of K-Pop theming throughout the park. However, the end of day K-Pop concert definitely brought in the crowds and seemed to be widely enjoyed.

Three entertainers, dressed as a K-Pop girl group, sang songs by HUNTR/X, Saja Boys, and Rosé, bringing the day to a close with a water show in the park’s lake. Kids and adults were bopping along to the tunes, and I was impressed that the group’s lead singer managed to tackle the high notes in Golden.

But the real draw at Drayton Manor is Thomas Land. While it took the silver award for Best Theme Park for Toddlers in 2025, people of all ages seem delighted when wandering around the Sodor-themed attraction. Even grown adults were posing for photos with Thomas, showing the nostalgia around the show never went away.

It seemed to be a good time to visit. Queues were pretty minimal on most of the rides, although we did unfortunately wait half an hour to get on Winston’s Whistle-Stop Tours only for the ride to break down. However, quite a few of the smaller rides had no queue at all, and it meant we got a couple of turns on Toby’s Tram Express and some other favourites.

Thomas Land also had regular shows, and we got the chance to meet Sir Topham Hatt, or depending on your age, the Fat Controller. The performer was great, and I noticed he could communicate in Makaton – a type of sign language often used for children with learning or communication difficulties. It would be great to see more theme parks train staff in this way to make the entertainment more inclusive.

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So, is this review Golden or is it a Takedown? Overall, I’d say it’s worth visiting the park for the K-Pop Takeover. Outside of the main stage, there’s not a whole lot of K-Pop theming, but enough to keep fans happy. The end of day concert was definitely a highlight for my youngest and she hasn’t stopped talking about it, and concert only tickets are available if you just want to visit later on. But Thomas Land is always worth a day out. Just make sure you bring your big coat.

You can find out more on draytonmanor.co.uk.

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The charming Georgian market town is packed with independent shops, cafés and a rich history dating back to the 1708 Great Fire – and it’s one to have on your staycation wishlist

Strolling through the delightful market town of Holt, situated near the north Norfolk coastline, you’ll undoubtedly be captivated by its wealth of exquisitely maintained Georgian architecture.

Yet without a devastating blaze, the town’s appearance might have been entirely different, and its heritage extends much further back than the Georgian period. Holt featured in the 1086 Domesday Book, where it was recorded as a market town boasting five watermills and twelve plough teams, establishing it as a thriving and affluent community by medieval measures.

Its fortunes shifted dramatically on 1st May 1708 when The Great Fire of Holt swept through the town, its timber-framed medieval structures proving powerless against the inferno. In just three hours, a substantial portion of the town’s heritage vanished forever, with damage exceeding £11,000 reported – equivalent to more than £2.1 million today.

Contributions flooded in from throughout the nation and reconstruction commenced, though this time with a striking Georgian character that persists to the present day. Among the handful of structures surviving in an earlier architectural style is the Norman church of St Andrews.

Whilst its thatched roof was consumed by flames, the majority withstood the fire and it remains amongst the town’s most ancient buildings. Many of the watermills were decimated and never restored, but Letheringsett Watermill emerged in their stead in 1802, reports the Express.

It now holds the distinction of being Norfolk’s oldest operational watermill, producing flour to this day. Visitors can delve into the mill’s rich history or indulge in a homemade cake at the tearoom, made with locally sourced ingredients.

The town boasts a delightful high street dotted with Georgian buildings that have been transformed into quaint independent boutiques. Meander through the streets and you’ll stumble upon cosy cafés, historic pubs, and traditional tearooms.

From April to December, on the first Sunday of each month, Holt Sunday Market commandeers the town centre, featuring a plethora of traders peddling crafts, artisanal local food and drink, and global street food.

Holt also serves as a gateway to some of north Norfolk’s top attractions. Baconsthorpe Castle is merely a 10-minute drive away, offering free entry to explore the remnants of this once magnificent 15th-century castle.

Once the pride of a wealthy family, the castle was gradually sold off piece by piece as their fortunes dwindled, though parts of the edifice still stand.

A short journey will also take you to the Muckleburgh Military Collection. This family-run museum, located in a former Royal Artillery Anti-Aircraft training camp, is a treasure trove for military enthusiasts, housing an extensive collection of tanks, weaponry, and uniforms.

It’s a must-visit for any history aficionado. For those seeking somewhere distinctive to rest their heads, Byfords in the town centre is worth considering. Housed within a grade II listed building that ranks among Holt’s most historic, it offers 16 well-appointed bedrooms alongside a favoured restaurant downstairs dishing up seasonal fare.

Alternatively, secure accommodation at The Feathers, a Georgian coaching inn boasting 24 rooms – including dog-friendly options – and a welcoming pub below complete with an open fireplace.

At one of the most popular tourist destinations, which dates back more than 5,000 years, visitors throw coins into a toilet in what they believe is a wishing well

The UK’s ‘lost city’ has been attracting tourists from around the world – but most of them want to toss pennies into a toilet.

Skara Brae, on the Orkney archipelago in Scotland, is a preserved Neolithic village that was inhabited by a farming community around 5,000 years ago. It stands as one of the finest-preserved farming settlements across the British Isles and is known as the “Scottish Pompeii”.

The village was inhabited between 3100 and 2500 BC, and its close proximity to the sea allowed its residents to easily hunt for fish while also growing crops and tending to their various animals. It isn’t exactly clear why Skara Brae was abandoned, but it’s thought to have become uninhabitable due to climate change and severe weather.

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It was left largely untouched until a storm in 1850 uncovered the site, revealing its fascinating past and prehistoric dwellings. Following a dig at Skara Brae, remnants of the community were further uncovered, including stone dressers and box beds, along with artefacts such as tools, gaming dice, pots and jewellery.

Together with a substantial chambered tomb (Maes Howe) and two ceremonial stone circles (the Stones of Stenness and the Ring of Brodgar), the settlement now forms part of the “Heart of Neolithic Orkney” collection of monuments, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999.

Dating back thousands of years, the site remains one of the island’s most popular tourist attractions, drawing crowds near and far. In a long-standing tradition, superstitious visitors have frequently thrown pennies into an ancient hole in the ground of the preserved Neolithic village, believing it to be a wishing well.

However, it’s actually a toilet – and not everyone realises. Experts have outlined that the hole in the ground is merely an “old sewer” and a network of well-constructed drains and substantial cisterns.

Local tour guide from Orkney Uncovered, Kinlay Francis, previously shared on Facebook: “For years, people have been throwing money down a subterranean hole in the Skara Brae ground, thinking they are throwing money down a well to make a wish.

“I have great delight in telling my clients and anybody who throws their money down there that they are, in fact, throwing money down a toilet.

“This is the old drain/sewer from the Skara Brae site. It is not, and I repeat, not a wishing well. So don’t go there to spend a penny.”

The post quickly amassed over 2,000 reactions and nearly 150 comments, as people couldn’t believe the hilarious mix-up. One person remarked: “Oh! So! Priceless!”, while a second said: “Really a p*****g well not a wishing well then”.

A third commented: “It’s not a wishing well…it’s a s******g well.” Yet, not everyone was prepared to ditch their beliefs, as one noted: “Still…maybe brings good luck”, and another stated: “Where there is muck, there is brass!”

The confusion hasn’t stopped visitors from marvelling at the Neolithic village, and it’s received outstanding praise on TripAdvisor. One traveller shared: “Skara Brae Prehistoric Village is a must-see if you are in the Orkney Islands. Such an interesting place. You will be blown away by how well-preserved this 5000-year-old site is.”

A second commented: “This was my second time to Skara Brae and it was just as wonderful as the first. The setting of this village is spectacular, and on this visit, the weather was outstanding. On my first visit, the rain was blowing sideways. It is fantastic to view the site and then visit the reconstructed house to see how these people lived. Not so different from us – pretty pots, stone dressers and reasonably comfortable beds with skins as duvets!”

One more noted: “A must-see bucket list experience older than the Giza pyramids. Although the museum is small, the recreated room really brings alive the site. They even had plumbing. Once you are at the site, you can tour the homes from the walkway, which shows the genius of the ancient culture. Plentiful parking with a good gift shop/cafe.”

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

THERE’S a small town along the Essex coastline that’s one of the driest places in the country.

Shoeburyness has a lower annual rainfall average than the rest of the UK – not to mention it has two Blue Flag beaches and is just one hour away from London.

Thirteen minutes from Southend-on-Sea is the lesser-known coastal spot of Shoeburyness.

The town is home to around 22,000 people and is one of the driest places in the country.

Its position on the southeast coast means it gets less rainfall than other spots around the UK.

Shoeburyness records an average of between 526.78mm and 527mm of rain per year.

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In comparison, the average annual rainfall for the entire UK is 1,163mm – Shoeburyness receives less than half of that.

So, it’s no wonder that lots of people flock to the town to visit its two Blue Flag beaches; Shoebury Common and Shoebury East Beach.

Shoebury Common is a sand and shingle beach that’s popular with families during the summer.

But it’s not just bucket and spade friendly, or for paddling, though. It’s also a popular place to launch boats and jet-skis, and is good for kitesurfing too.

Up on the promenade are colourful beach huts, as well as Uncle Tom’s Cabin where visitors can grab an ice cream, soft drink or cup of tea.

Shoebury East Beach is further along the coast, and is set to undergo a £600,000 makeover this spring.

The new inclusive playground at Shoebury’s East Beach in Southend will have themed zones inspired by the sea.

There will be a sandpit, climbing areas and a submarine structure in the middle of the playground.

The playground will be open to all age groups and abilities and include wheelchair-accessible swings, roundabouts and sensory features.

The area surrounding East Beach had a new addition last summer with the Beach House Cafe opening next door to the East Beach Cafe and marking the completion of a £2million regeneration project.

One visitor to the Beach House said: “Love it here! Come for brunch every weekend, drive up from London. Lovely beach setting, food is fresh, tasty & lush!”

Last year, The Telegraph also named Shoeburyness as one of the top 20 destinations in Britain for the best secret and remote beaches.

The Telegraph stated: “Just three miles from the mayhem that is Southend in summer, Shoeburyness has two Blue Flag beaches that are far less well known.

“Its East Beach is the nicest and is popular with local paddleboarders and kitesurfers, thanks to its long strand of sand.”

The town was once even accessible on the London Underground – although it was never officially part of the network.

The District line ran seasonal, direct services to Shoeburyness via Southend between 1910 and 1939 – and was known as the ‘Southend Service’.

Those who want to visit Shoeburyness can still do so very easily from London by getting on a direct train from London Fenchurch Street.

The journey takes just one hour and one-way tickets are as little as £11.30.

If you head further into the town of Shoeburyness, you’ll find a Wetherspoon called Parson’s Barn.

There’s also a popular restaurant called The Angel Inn which earned itself a Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Award last year.

Here you can dig into sizzling fajitas from £15, burgers, mains like steak with chips and salmon with broccoli and paprika cous cous.

Speaking of which, on Tuesdays, The Angel Inn does Pie and Pint Night where you can get any pie and any drink from its menu from £17.

Shoebury Park is another popular spot, it stretches across 20 acres and is filled with green areas and ponds.

It also has a tennis court, basketball court, cricket pitch, bowling green, BMX trail track, skateboarding facilities, fishing lake, and a children’s playground.

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Southend-on-Sea has become an unlikely hot spot for some of the UK’s best-known TV personalities.

The Essex town has seen a surge in popularity, thanks to its colourful beach huts, award-winning hotels and stunning coastline.

Dubbed the British Miami by fans because of its long golden beaches, the town often welcomes celebrity visitors.

Fool Me Once actress Michelle Keegan spent her first Mother’s Day as a mum, at the Roslin Beach Hotel on Thorpe Bay.

On Sunday 30 March, Michelle was spotted there with her husband, Mark Wright and their new baby, Palma, as well as other family members including Jess Wright.

They aren’t the only ones; the Roslin Beach Hotel has also opened its doors to Gary Barlow, Tyson Fury, Denise van Outen, and TOWIE stars including Frankie Essex, who have all visited.

It was reported earlier last year that the hotel would undergo a £10million makeover. Currently, the Roslin Beach Hotel has 37 bedrooms, but with the extension, it will have an extra seven rooms.

They also want to add a spa, a new wedding venue, and add outdoor restaurant facilities.

For more on Essex, this is Britain’s smallest town that was named one of the coolest spots in the country with cosy pubs and coastal walks.

And here you can swap the Cotswolds for a less-crowded but equally quaint weekend in Essex’s most perfect market town.

“IT’S definitely your best picture ever.”

That was the verdict from my son when I proudly showed off my hot-off-the-easel painting after an inspiring “art experience” on a weekend break in Wales.

It was the highlight of my time in St David’s, Pembrokeshire, with Coastal Cottages.

The location is the UK’s smallest city — more of a village with a stonking great cathedral attached.

Our base was the cosy Goat Street Cottage — a traditional end-of- terrace kitted out in a very comfortable country style.

It sleeps five and has everything for a short break, a longer holiday or even a family Easter or Christmas.

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The centre of St David’s is a few yards away and yet it’s incredibly quiet.
Pembrokeshire’s golden beaches are the big draw and even in winter they are breathtaking.

The water was turquoise, the skies blue and the sand seemed to go on for ever.

This is a national park lined by a stunning coastal path. At Whitesands Bay, surfers were catching the waves.

The fact the water was icy made no difference.

There isn’t just one beach here — the St David’s Peninsula has 26.

Solva, a quaint inlet, and Newgale — backed by massive pebble bank — were among our favourites.

We were the odd ones out as we didn’t have a dog. Among the walkers they were almost compulsory.

There are signs everywhere for dog ice cream, dog menus and home-made dog treats.

Many of Coastal’s 400 cottages welcome four-legged visitors too.

Ours had a dog bed in the living room although pets are not allowed on sofas or upstairs.

The crashing waves were our muse when we met artist Jill Jones for a two-hour lesson booked through the cottage’s concierge service.

Jill is a human dynamo who, after a 30-year career in graphic design, built her own studio in Talbenny loaded with art equipment.

MAGICAL MEMORY

She has a unique technique and doesn’t believe in doing more than a few strokes with one brush.

So every few seconds we had fresh brushes in our hands with the used ones tossed into a large bucket.

Her step-by-step teaching was truly motivating.

It was the first time in years anyone had really shown me proper acrylic painting skills so I could achieve a result I wanted to hang on my wall.

The concierge service can also deliver hampers of Welsh produce or flowers to your cottage or book activity days ranging from boat trips to spa treatments, cooking classes or flying lessons.

It turns a cottage stay into a magical memory.

Pleased with our masterpieces, we treated ourselves to a hearty and delicious Sunday lunch at The Castle pub in Little Haven.

Back in St David’s, there was just time for a final browse of the shops.

Arts and crafts abound, from the Goat Street Gallery to Solva Woollen Mill and the Window On Wales which had so many covetable gifts it felt like Etsy on steroids.

For the family back home, we grabbed some handmade treats from Chapel Chocolates and the MamGu Welshcake bakery.

If you want to eat out on a Sunday evening, be warned. Despite having a three-Michelin-rosette restaurant and a tapas bar, the town was mostly closed — but this was in winter.

Luckily Saffron met our needs for a final Indian meal.

At the Oriel Y Parc visitor centre we topped up the EV — the break had already recharged our human batteries.

The Mirror’s data team has crunched the numbers and found where in the country has the highest concentration of pubs – see if your hometown has made the cut in our rankings

The pub capital of the UK has been crowned, and it’s a beautiful part of the country with cosy inns and rolling hills.

It’s been a rough year for the pub trade. Many are facing increasingly tricky futures. A report by UK Hospitality has warned that six venues will close every day this year without support – a total of more than 2,000. That far outstrips the 378 that closed in 2025, according to the Institute for Licensing. The British Beer and Pub Association worries pubs will need to sell an extra 1.3 billion pints of beer a year to offset surging taxes.

However, as gloomy as the overall picture is, there are still thousands of incredible pubs across the country, and areas where the trade is, if not booming, then thriving in a relative sense.

The Mirror’s data team has crunched the numbers and found that the drinkers in the Derbyshire Dales are more well stocked with pubs than anywhere else in England and Wales. The rural council has a total of 152 pubs and bars within its borders, according to our analysis of government data.

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That works out as the equivalent of 25 for every 10,000 adults living there.

That’s the highest rate for any local authority in England and Wales, excluding two areas where extremely low population numbers skew the figures – the City of London (188 pubs and bars, equivalent to 132 per 10,000 adults) and the Isles of Scilly (six pubs, equivalent to 29 per 10,000).

Westminster has the next highest number of pubs relative to its drinking-age population. The London borough’s 407 boozers works out as 23 for every 10,000 resident adults.

Powys also has 23 per 10,000 adults with a total of 259 pubs.

That’s followed by Pembrokeshire with 21 per 10,000 adults, then four council areas with 18 pubs for every 10,000 adults – Westmorland and Furness, North Yorkshire, Gwynedd and Ceredigion.

You can see how many pubs there are for every 10,000 adults in each council area in the country by using our interactive map.

London councils fill the top 10 list of areas with the most pubs relative to their geographic size.The City of London’s 188 pubs and bars works out as the equivalent of 169 for every square mile (with the area famously known as “the Square Mile” being slightly larger than a square mile).

Westminster’s 407 pubs is equivalent to 49 every square mile. In Islington, there are 40 pubs every square mile, while in both Camden there are 29, in Hackney 22 and in both Kensington and Chelsea and Hammersmith and Fulham there are 20 every square mile.

Liverpool has the highest density of pubs outside of London. The city’s 502 boozers works out as nearly 12 for every square mile, the 11th highest ratio in England and Wales.

Manchester’s 432 pubs work out at nearly 10 per square mile. Portsmouth’s 139 pubs are nine per square mile, Blackpool’s 114 pubs are also nine per square mile, Norwich’s 127 are eight per square mile, as are Brighton’s 244 pubs and Bristol’s 321.

Wales and England’s 25 pub capitals

1. Derbyshire Dales
2. Westminster
3. Powys
4. Pembrokeshire
5. North Yorkshire
6. Westmorland and Furness
7. Gwynedd
8. Ceredigion
9. Carmarthenshire
10. Staffordshire Moorlands
11. South Hams
12. Denbighshire
13. Monmouthshire
14. North Devon
15. Cotswold
16. East Lindsey
17. West Devon
18. High Peak
19. Malvern Hills
20. Herefordshire, County of
21. Shropshire
22. Isle of Anglesey
23. Calderdale
24. Great Yarmouth
25. Amber Valley

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

OPINION

Milo Boyd

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

GET THERE

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

BOOK IT

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

MORE INFO

visitlakedistrict.com, visitlancashire.com.

It was the home of a self-proclaimed “white witch”

A picturesque Hampshire village has earned the title of the “witchiest village in the UK” from those who’ve visited. Nestled within the New Forest’s ancient woodlands, Burley boasts a history spanning centuries, and within living memory was home to a self-proclaimed “white witch”.

During the 1950s, Burley was inhabited by Sybil Leek, widely regarded as Britain’s “most famous witch”. She became a familiar sight wandering the village streets with her pet jackdaw perched on her shoulder, before eventually relocating to America.

Although nearly seven decades have passed since Sybil called Burley home, her legacy endures through numerous witch-themed gift shops that now populate the village.

The village’s connection to the paranormal extends beyond witchcraft, with local folklore claiming Burley Beacon once housed a dragon’s lair. According to legend, the creature would take flight each morning to Bisterne, a tiny hamlet merely three miles westward, where it would consume milk before returning home.

The tale concludes with the dragon being killed by Sir Maurice Berkeley, who served as lord of the manor of Bisterne during the 15th century. Whilst no actual dragon existed, some historians propose that elements of this legend may hold truth, with a wild boar or other sizeable creature substituting for the mythical beast.

Burley was formerly a popular hideout for smugglers, with renovation works at the Queens Head pub unearthing pistols, coins and other artefacts just a few years back. Local legend has it that the Queens Head served as the headquarters for Lovey Warne, the notorious 18th-century Smuggler Queen, where she orchestrated her illegal operations.

One recent visitor shared their enthusiasm on TripAdvisor: “If the weather is nice and you have some young people with you then I couldn’t think of a better place to stroll around than Burley. It [has a] fudge shop, tea rooms and an ice cream parlour (you must try the ice cream! A double scoop into a waffle cornet for £3.70 – my wife thought it should be £5 or more).”

Another reviewer commented: “I have been to Burley many times over the years with family who live in Dorset, and love checking out all the shops for a gift. Love to see the horses and donkeys roaming freely, and stopping when they see a picnic appearing in the field.”

The village offers an abundance of activities for visitors, from dining at the celebrated Queen’s Head to browsing the numerous mystical-themed boutiques, including Coven of Witches, Cobwebs and Crystal’s and Away With The Fairies.

Tourists can also take advantage of the encompassing woodland with deer safaris or cycling excursions on offer. For a more leisurely experience, horse-drawn wagon tours provide a charming way to explore the village.

Andy Gilpin returns to his hometown and finds it has become the somewhat unlikely hottest thing in travel

It’s 1.24pm on Friday afternoon and while most pubs around the UK at this time would be empty, The Turf is full. There are regulars, a retirement party and a vociferous pool game.

There’s also Wayne Cram, from Boston (that’s Massachusetts, not Lincolnshire), supping pints with Max from Wrexham, who’s just come in for a swift half after a hospital appointment. These two would normally never meet, especially here, but they’ve been brought together by one thing – Wrexham FC.

Almost attached to the historic Racecourse Ground, The Turf is one of the main stars of the Welcome to Wrexham show that’s got people flocking to this unassuming and in some ways run-down North Wales city. It follows the fortunes of a football club bought by Ryan ‘Deadpool’ Reynolds and Rob ‘It’s Always Sunny’ McElhenney.

And people have fallen in love with the show. New research says Wrexham is the UK’s newest holiday hotspot for 2026 – with bookings surging an astonishing 184% compared to 2025.

But why and what leads the likes of Wayne to travel 3,200 miles to a place that used to be famous for a giant slag heap and a massive industrial estate?

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

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“I’m like the Richard Dreyfuss character in Close Encounters of the Third Kind” explains Wayne. “I was looking for something. I was probably making models of the Racecourse Ground out of mashed potato. I didn’t know what I was looking for, but when I came here, I found it.”

Wayne has been over to see Wrexham five times – six if you count the 10 hours he drove to watch them play in Philadelphia. The first time he ‘kept under the radar’ and didn’t interact much.

Now, you can’t shut him up about Phil Parkinson’s 3-5-2, the recent transfer window and if the club have enough for four promotions in a row.

“I don’t know what the show’s demographic was, but I am it,” he adds. “I keep getting pulled here.”

The Turf’s landlord Wayne Jones is also about grafting, pulling pints, carrying boxes and chatting to regulars. While he’s a star of the show, he doesn’t particularly like the limelight, but will happily pose for selfies for people from all over the world. It’s what has got his pub so busy.

One of the people playing pool is Bryan Still. A former Wrexham Supporters Trust board member, he now runs tours of Wrexham in his minibus, taking eager foreigners to the places that feature and the people who star in them.

Bryan is one of those people who has a story or quip about everything and everyone. We jump into his taxi as he drives into town, pointing out interesting landmarks on the way. We go to the Wrexham Lager Brewery, now 95% owned by Ryan, Rob and their investing partners, the Allyn family.

We visit the historic St Giles Church, one of the seven wonders of Wales, where the founder of Yale University, Elihu Yale, is buried, as well as various murals around the city dedicated to heroes of the club.

We also pay a visit to Rob Clarke, owner of Mad4Movies in the Butchers Market and another regular in the show. Wayne chats to him, before an Aussie fella can’t wait and jumps in, much to the Bostonian’s amusement.

It’s good-natured fun, but it’s not all good news in Wrexham County Borough. While the Turf is full, the high street is empty. Rob’s shop is well visited, but other stalls in the market are struggling for footfall. Shop owners don’t believe the council is doing enough to get people spending in the city – whatever the benefits of the documentary are.

Back at the Turf, Wayne Jones is still busy, but he stops to talk about Flo’s ‘world famous’ baps on the counter at £2 a pop.

“They’re world famous because Rob McElhenney had one once,” says Wayne, before giving us some intel on Millwall fans’ whereabouts and carrying on the graft.

Scoot, lead singer of the Declan Swans who’s song ‘It’s Always Sunny in Wrexham’ is a soundtrack to the show (think this ‘less than a mile from the centre of town’) is talking to a German fella. Bassist from the band Mark Jones is milling around after finishing his shift. A Yorkshire-based reporter charged with covering the club has just walked in and Boston Wayne is holding court with all of them.

Everyone here seems to have a link to either the club, the documentary or both. Even me. I do the voice-over for the show.

My hometown is in the spotlight of the world, and I, Wayne(s), Bryan, Scott, and so many others want to show it off. And you may get embroiled in a chat about the merits of 3-5-2 and a world-famous bap in the bargain.

You get the slap heap for free.

Book it

For inspiration and where to stay and what to do in and around Wrexham, visit the Welsh tourist board.

IF you want incredible coastal views head to this spaceship-looking retreat – it’s one of the best in the UK.

Called The Observatory, the holiday home is perched high above the beach in Tyne and Wear – it even has an indoor sauna and outdoor bath.

The Observatory was picked as one of the ‘most-loved cottages for 2026’ by holidaycottages.co.uk – and for good reason.

Near Whitley Bay in North Tyneside, The Observatory sits up on the third and fourth floor with views across the North Sea.

You can see the coast from anywhere thanks to the holiday cottages’ wrap around windows which are made from car windscreens.

And if you’re lucky, you might be able to spot dolphins and seals – which one lucky visitor did.

GO SEA IT

£9.50 holiday spot with shipwrecks, seals offshore & horseshoe-shaped waterfalls

SIGHT SEA

£9.50 holidaymakers’ favourite Skegness activities… away from the beach

They wrote in their review: “Absolutely fantastic accommodation, a perfect location for exploring the area, lots of great restaurants especially for fish lovers!!

“Spectacular views, we were lucky enough to see a pod of dolphins very close within the bay.”

Another added: “Absolutely incredible views, all day and night, you don’t need to move from the windows! I did have a little run down to the water and a walk into the high street but other than that the sauna and views were enough.”

On the first floor of The Observatory is a cosy sofa and a hanging egg chair – it’s also where you’ll find the bedroom with a super king-size bed.

There’s also a shower room, alfresco bathtub, and an indoor sauna with a sea view.

On the very top floor is an airy kitchen, another lounge area with a woodburner, and an outside balcony with thirty-mile all-round sea views.

If you fancy a sweet treat, head down to the cafe on the ground floor which serves up coffee and ice cream.

Also on the ground floor is a private, enclosed patio garden with a table and chairs.

It sleeps two and is pet-friendly too.

A seven-night stay at The Observatory in March costs £1,143 – or £81.65pppn.

The Observatory sits just outside of Tynemouth which has just been named one of the best places to live in the North East.

Now, it’s been named as one of the top places to live in the region by Garrington Property Finders – coming sixth best.

Tynemouth sits between Whitley Bay and North Shields and is home to one of the best beaches in the area called Longsands.

The beach has a mile of golden sand, has been awarded Blue Flag status, and is known for having excellent surfing conditions.

One of the most popular cafés in Tynemouth is Crusoe’s where visitors can eat right on the sand and take in the seaside view.

You can pick up breakfasts, sandwiches and the classic beach supper, fish and chips from £13.95.

For more staycations – here are six of the best staycation deals across the UK from Cotswolds cottages to lakefront lodges.

Plus, check out this beautiful Cotswolds lake house named best holiday home in the UK with a pool and spa access.

A MASSIVE expansion of the UK’s biggest train station has finally been given the green light after years of controversy.

London Liverpool Street Station welcomes nearly as many as 100million passengers a year.

However, for years there have been plans to upgrade some of the station’s dated features as well as make it larger after record passenger numbers.

And the City of London Corporation has now approved plans for the redevelopment of Liverpool Street Station.

It confirmed that it would “improve central London’s connectivity to the rest of the country [and] make the local area a much more enjoyable place to visit, work in and travel through.”

The new plans – predicted to cost £1.2billion – include more shops and cafes, as well as better pedestrian and cycle paths and parks.

Read more on train stations

SEA YOU THERE

I stayed at the affordable seaside hotel right by the train station

MAKEOVER

UK’s first seaside town reveals £14m transformation of historic train station

More office spaces will be part of a new 318ft tower block being built over the main concourse.

Upgraded facilities such as more ticket barriers, lifts, escalators and toilets, and wider train platforms, are also part of the plans.

It hopes it will eventually double in capacity, with up to 200million passengers.

It won’t be anytime soon, however – works could start by 2029, and be finished by 2036.

Chairman of the City of London Corporation Planning and Transportation Committee, Tom Sleigh, said: “Everyone likes an upgrade, and this astonishing improvement to Britain’s busiest train station is just that; a major improvement by every measure.

“The soaring Brick arches and bold architecture will cement Liverpool Street’s status as a modern temple to transport.”

Policy Chairman of the City of London Corporation, Chris Hayward, added: “This redevelopment of Liverpool Street station is a major step forward for the Square Mile.”

If the proposals go ahead, work would start at the beginning of 2029 and last seven years, with the new station completed by mid-2036.

The long-discussed plans have caused controversy in the past, with previous plans even including a rooftop pool although this has now been scrapped.

And there are fears that the upgrade works could cause a “decade of chaos” due to closed platforms.

This would affect passengers travelling to airports like London Stansted, as well as those using the Elizabeth Line.

London Liverpool Street Station is the UK’s busiest, recording a record 98million passengers from 2024/25.

In second is London Waterloo, which has nearly 28million fewer passengers.

It’s not the only huge train station expanding – London St Pancras plans to double passenger numbers to 60million.

The station is home to the Eurostar, and will eventually welcome Virgin’s European trains when they launch as well.

And here’s a large train station in the UK that was inspired by Italy – and has been named one of the best.

Britannia Hotels has been named the UK’s worst hotel chain for 12 consecutive years by Which? So I decided to book a stay at Britannia Hampstead to see if it really is as bad as everyone says

There aren’t many hotels that slap a £10 charge on opening windows or appear completely deserted in the run-up to Christmas. And there’s just one hotel chain that’s been crowned the worst in Britain for 12 years running.

To sample such treats, you need to book yourself into a Britannia.

The chain has become the stuff of folklore. Half a century after launching its first property, the Country House Hotel in Didsbury, Manchester, it has expanded to roughly 60 locations spanning the UK before acquiring Pontins.

Yet, the tale isn’t entirely rosy. Britannia has faced severe criticism over the years from disgruntled guests who claim it has transformed once-magnificent buildings into grubby, disagreeable, and uncomfortable accommodation that fails to deliver value, even at rock-bottom prices.

My initial encounter with Britannia occurred back in 2022, during those heady post-lockdown months when I caught the train to Bournemouth to stay at a hotel that has since been converted to accommodate asylum seekers. The jammed-shut windows and overpowering paint fumes made for a sweltering and clammy evening, whilst the empty outdoor pool, abandoned underwear in the courtyard, and scattered laughing gas canisters only heightened the overwhelming atmosphere of abandonment, reports the Mirror.

Have you had a memorable hotel stay, either good or bad? Email webtravel@reachplc.com

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With those troubling images fresh in my mind, I approached my local Britannia with considerable apprehension, eager to discover whether Britain’s most criticised hotel chain had made any improvements.

It hadn’t.

The Britannia Hampstead proved to be a dispiriting experience, though in distinctly different ways to its coastal sister property. Here’s how it stacked up against a recent stay at The Manor in Blakeney, North Norfolk. The Manor belongs to the Coaching Inn Group, which Which? readers crowned the UK’s best large hotel chain of 2025, whilst Britannia languished at the very bottom. This is what distinguishes excellence from mediocrity.

Atmosphere

During my Bournemouth expedition, there was considerably more activity. The hotel felt inhabited.

I was acutely aware of this because I could hear bickering couples and other guests’ television programmes seeping through my bedroom walls. I’d have gladly welcomed even the faintest sounds of human presence during this visit.

The six-floor London establishment, spacious enough to accommodate a 350-capacity conference suite, felt utterly deserted. The fairy lights twinkled away, yet the place seemed abandoned entirely.

By contrast, The Manor radiated energy. Despite being a solid hour’s bike ride from the nearest railway station, even during the depths of November, it bustled with life, warmth and friendliness.

Staff members were keen to engage in conversation, as were the patrons gathered at the bar, savouring special weekend breaks or enjoying a swift beverage in what doubled as their neighbourhood watering hole.

Accommodation

My stay at the Hampstead Britannia, while not award-winning, was a marked improvement from my experience in Bournemouth. In Bournemouth, I was greeted by a lone dead fly on the windowsill and a heavily stained armchair.

A protruding screw from a picture frame added to the room’s charm. For several hours, we were left in the dark as all lights, except for the bathroom’s, were non-functional. The only source of noise was the ear-splitting extractor fan until a friendly receptionist revealed that the main electricity switch was cunningly hidden beneath the kettle.

In contrast, my North London accommodation was simply… uninspiring. It was so spotless that my UV torch couldn’t detect a speck of dirt.I suspect the overpowering smell of cleaning products played a part in this. The decor consisted of dated, predominantly brown furniture, but it wasn’t offensive.

At times during the night, the absence of windows made me feel like I was serving time. However, I managed to sleep, wake up, and escape to share my story. Meanwhile, over in Norfolk, the situation is quite different. The Manor boasts 36 rooms, with the most affordable option available for £99 next week.

It offers typical budget hotel amenities, but with a touch of quality. There’s a cosy double bed, a decent-sized telly, and a tastefully decorated bathroom. Everything is sturdy, clean, and inviting.

Staff

Regarding the staff at the Britannia hotel that evening, I honestly can’t grumble too much. They appeared pleasant enough, though perhaps somewhat preoccupied during our brief exchanges.

The person on reception couldn’t quite explain why the restaurant and bar had shut up shop. Beyond that, my contact with employees was largely confined to curious glances thrown my way as I sat with my book in the deserted foyer.

By contrast, the Manor is entirely staff-focused. A significant number have clocked up well over a decade of service there.

Roughly half appear to belong to the Hill family, including Tore, Karen, Sophie and Wayne. Throughout my visit, they were consistently available to check everything was as it should be and to share local knowledge.

For myself, and the talkative regulars who greeted staff by their first names, this genuine friendliness is a huge selling point. It elevates the establishment from merely somewhere to kip and grab dinner, into a welcoming retreat where you actually want to spend time.

Location

This ought to be where Britannia excels. In my view, guests put up with substandard accommodation because of the ease of stumbling back to a city centre location following a work trip or lads’ weekend.

The Hampstead property delivers none of that convenience. It’s not close enough to either the Heath or Camden to genuinely claim either neighbourhood, and it’s an absolute trek from central London.

I can only picture the letdown awaiting tourists who hadn’t done their homework before making a reservation. Blakeney, by contrast, is a delightful destination.

The hotel sits just metres from the River Glaven, which meanders through the National Nature Reserve. The nearby Blakeney Point is famous for its seal colonies, with Beans Boat providing guided tours year-round.

Most Coaching Inn Group hotels occupy similarly picturesque and secluded rural settings.

Price

According to its website, windowless rooms at the London Britannia start from £55. However, mine came to nearly £90 including breakfast. Had I chosen the coveted window option, the cost would’ve reached the £100 mark.

Rooms at the Manor average £128 per night. Whilst that’s hardly bargain-basement, the Which? survey saw the hotel achieve four out of five stars for value for money – one of only two establishments to do so.

The other was Wetherspoons. I stayed at the Spoons Hotel in Canterbury last November, where overnight accommodation costs just £55, with an average price of £70.

Spoons comfortably wins the value crown in my opinion, with Coaching Inn Group trailing close behind. Britannia, though, delivers precious little for what represents a substantial price tag.

According to Which?, the average room rate across all its hotels stands at £84. Even in today’s money, that’s disappointing.

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The verdict

Nothing during my Britannia stay persuaded me that it’s improving or likely to shake off its unwanted ‘worst in class’ reputation any time soon. I’m confident it’ll claim the bottom position for a thirteenth consecutive year.

Britannia’s business model appears to involve acquiring impressive historic buildings and offering rooms at budget-friendly prices. Given the sheer scale of these properties, undertaking comprehensive modern refurbishments would represent a substantial financial gamble.

It seems the company’s leadership has calculated that maintaining minimal overheads is preferable, even if profit margins remain modest. The consequence is a chain comprising numerous dilapidated establishments that routinely disappoint guests.

By contrast, Coaching Inn Group demonstrates how things should be done. For virtually identical rates, guests can enjoy stays at its delightful properties, complete with cosy, welcoming rooms and employees who appear genuinely passionate about their roles.

Frankly, there’s simply no comparison between the two.

Britannia has been contacted for comment.

A NEW budget-friendly hotel has opened up in a major tourist destination.

A 532-room Moxy hotel has just opened in London’s Piccadilly Circus within an old office building in the West End.

The hotel is the largest Moxy outside of New York and inside, decor is inspired by Horses of Helios fountain, which can be found on Piccadilly Circus.

Pictures also show purple interiors, with neon lights and vibrant murals.

Rooms nod to the nearby theatre district too, with names such as ‘Showstopper’, ‘Showtime’ and ‘Spotlight’.

There are eight different room types, but each features a comfy bed, speedy WiFi, motion-activated LED guidelights and walk-in showers.

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One room option is the Moxy Loft, where guests climb up a ladder to a loft bed and underneath is a sofa bed.

However, some rooms don’t have a window.

The hotel has two bars, including House of Helios which is a 24/7 bar serving cocktails.

Then there is Snacks 24/7, where snacks and beverages are available at all times.

But it is worth noting that complimentary breakfast is not currently served at the hotel.

Until March 1, you can also book a Be My Moxytine stay, with accommodation, breakfast for two at Masala Zone, two cocktails and late check-out until 4pm.

It costs from just £55 per person to stay, or £110 per night.

Halima Aziz, head of hotels at Criterion, said: “The opening of Moxy London Piccadilly Circus marks an exciting milestone for Criterion.

“With its fun, energetic and contemporary concept, Moxy is the perfect fit for this global district – right in the heart of nightlife, theatreland, retail and the city’s renowned culinary scene.

“It’s a fantastic addition to our growing portfolio of prime hospitality assets, and we’re thrilled to be partnering with Marriott International to bring this building to life in a way that prioritises sustainability.”

Paul Thomas, vice-president, international hotel development at Marriott International, added: “By reimagining an existing building, Moxy London Piccadilly Circus showcases our commitment to bold, lifestyle-led hospitality while honouring the heritage and vibrant energy of one of London’s most iconic destinations.

“Set in the heart of the city, Piccadilly Circus perfectly captures the playful spirit of the Moxy brand, offering guests an immersive West End experience.”

Piccadilly Circus is one of the most-visited and busiest spots in the UK.

And around 100million people visit the giant LED screens each year.

The landmark is great base to explore central London from, with Trafalgar Square, the National Gallery, Leicester Square and Soho all within walking distance.

The brand behind Moxy – Criterion Capital – also recently opened a Zedwell hotel, which is the largest capsule hotel and can be found in Piccadilly Circus.

Travel writer Helen Wright stayed recently and said: “Inside, decked out with a modern concrete and timber design, there are nearly 1,000 individual sleep capsules over five floors.

“It’s a twist on the traditional ‘dorm style’ hostel set up as each guest gets privacy and security of being tucked up in your capsule, with the ability to lock it from the inside.

“On first glance, the dorm rooms, which are minimalist and dimly-lit looked a bit like a car park or a storage locker.

“However, inside, I was surprised to find a cute little space, with mood lighting and welcoming interiors.

“Each capsule is made from oak and come with a single Hypnos mattress, Egyptian cotton bedding, individual mini aircon or heat, smart climate control, noise reduction, and ambient lighting.

“There is also a plug socket inside, two USB plugs and a mirror.”

In other hotel news, these are 12 of our favourite UK hotels to visit this year – from cosy farm retreats to £55 all-inclusives in London.

Plus, is this the UK’s fanciest Premier Inn? New hotel opens inside former Victorian police station.

WATFORD may not be top of your staycation bucket list, especially after it was named one of the UK’s worst big towns.

Ranked poorly by The Telegraph, it was slated for its its ‘concrete centres and bad vibes’.

They might not like it, but as a local – I’m 30 mins down the M1 from there – I feel the need to jump to its defence.

I look at the town with an air of nostalgia because – believe it or not – some of the highlights of my childhood were spent in Watford.

In my teens, it was the closest thing to an action-packed city we had, unless we wanted to trek into London, which quite frankly was a cost my pals and I didn’t want to incur, plus our parents all worried about our safety in the big smoke. 

Days were spent at the Harlequin shopping centre, which had all the top high street shops but without the London crowds. Mum would take me here in early school years to buy new shoes from Clark’s.

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I’d watch the Disney movies in shoe heaven while mum and the shop assistants liaised over styles and measured how much my tootsies had grown.

I spent weekends as a season ticket holder watching Watfords now distinctly average football team play on its home turf, stopping for chippies to celebrate (or commiserate) post game.

When I turned 17, my pals and I graduated from the shops to the clubs and bars.

In the 2000s party glory days, we’d grab our glad rags and the tallest platform heels we could find, starting at Vodka Revolutions where shots were cheap as chips, then heading on to one of the mega clubs like Oceana or Area (both now gone).

We wouldn’t walk between venues, instead we’d hop on a bicycle tuktuk, just like the fairy-light clad ones you find in London, only cheaper. 

Top Golf was another cherished activity at the weekends.

The experience is still there today, home to a lively bar and several putting stations.

You don’t have to be good at golf to play, the aim of the game is to whack the balls into targets laid out on the vast green ahead.

Admittedly, I don’t visit Watford as frequently nowadays as most of my time is spent either close to my office in London Bridge, or my hometown, when I’m not off travelling the world.

But it still holds a charm nonetheless. And well worth a visit.

For starters, the is where the UKs leading Harry Potter attraction is, Warner Bros Studio Tour.

Potter fans will be blown over by what’s on offer here and you can pick up some wizarding treats seen on screen and read in the books, like butterbeer, before getting a first hand look behind the magical scenes seen on screen.

Don’t forget to pull a squealing mandrake out of the dirt and explore the Dursley’s house in Privet Drive.

There’s a decent restaurant scene now, too.

Humo is a great option for meat lovers with grubs scorched over an open flame.

The shopping is still decent – and less busy than those in London!

And little kids can take advantage of a Vue cinema and pottery painting while older ones test their nerve at indoor go karting or ninja warrior adventure.

So even if Watford is a little rough around the edges and not the prettiest place to look at, it’s still got it perks. 

One things for sure, you’ll never get bored. But I do wish they’d bring back those booming clubs

United Kingdom Prime Minister Keir Starmer has emerged rattled but ultimately unscathed after a day and night of drama during which a key member of his Labour Party called for him to resign over revelations about a former ambassador to the US, Peter Mandelson, in the Jeffrey Epstein files.

Starmer has faced more than a week of mounting pressure since the release of the latest tranche of documents from the US Department of Justice relating to the criminal cases against the late sex offender. They revealed that Mandelson had maintained a close friendship with the disgraced financier even after Epstein had pleaded guilty to solicitation of sex with a minor and was jailed in 2008.

They include documents and emails that suggest Mandelson may have received payments from Epstein and passed sensitive information to him during the 2008-2009 financial crisis.

Since then, Starmer has admitted that he knew of the pair’s friendship when he appointed Mandelson as ambassador but said the peer had lied about the extent of it. The affair has caused outrage in parliament. Two key members of Starmer’s inner circle have resigned and a third is under pressure to go. On Monday, Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar called for the prime minister to do the same.

While Starmer’s position has been shored up for now by a rally of support from his cabinet on Monday night, just how badly has this affair shaken his government?

Why did Anas Sarwar call for Starmer to resign?

Sarwar said at a news conference early on Monday afternoon that he had called Starmer and told him it was time for him to resign. “I spoke to the prime minister earlier today, and I think it’s safe to say he and I disagreed,” Sarwar said.

He said “too many mistakes” had been made in relation to the appointment of Mandelson.

“The distraction needs to end, and the leadership in Downing Street has to change,” Sarwar said as he became the first Labour heavyweight to stand against the prime minister.

While Sarwar said he believed Starmer to be a “decent man”, the fury over the Epstein files had severely damaged the government’s support and wrecked its chances in the upcoming Scottish parliament elections. Opinion polls put Scottish Labour some distance behind the Scottish National Party, followed by the far-right Reform party, led by Nigel Farage.

But cabinet members came out in support of Starmer, ultimately ending the coup that never was. Angela Rayner, former deputy prime minister and a senior member of the Labour Party, was the first to show him support. She said in a post on X that while she did not defend Starmer’s judgement, “the worst possible response [to the scandal] would be to play party politics or factional games.”

“I urge all my colleagues to come together, remember our values and put them into practice as a team,” she wrote on X. “The Prime Minister has my full support in leading us to that end.”

Within hours, nearly every minister had followed suit. Wes Streeting, the health secretary, urged people to “give Keir a chance”. Pat McFadden, the work and pensions secretary, said he hoped the prime minister would stay on, and Douglas Alexander, Scotland secretary, said he “respected” Sarwar’s stance but backed the prime minister.

On Monday night, Starmer addressed more than 400 MPs and peers at a Labour Party meeting. “I have won every fight I’ve ever been in. I fought to change the Labour Party to allow us to win an election again,” he told them.

“But I’ll tell you this, after having fought so hard for the chance to change our country, I’m not prepared to walk away from my mandate and my responsibility to my country or to plunge us into chaos as others have done.”

Who has resigned from Starmer’s team and why?

Two key figures have already resigned, and a third is under pressure to do so, UK media has reported.

Amid growing outrage over the new revelations about Mandelson and Epstein, Starmer’s chief of staff, Morgan McSweeney, resigned on Sunday, taking “full responsibility” for advising the prime minister to appoint Mandelson to the ambassadorship, which he took up in 2025, despite the risks.

“The decision to appoint Mandelson was wrong,” McSweeney said. “He has damaged our party. … I advised the prime minister to make that appointment and I take full responsibility for that.”

Mandelson was dismissed from the post in September after serving seven months after the UK daily The Sun obtained other emails between him and Epstein that showed the depth of their friendship.

After the release of the latest tranche of Epstein documents on January 30, Mandelson resigned from the Labour Party and the House of Lords.

Tim Allan, Starmer’s communications chief, resigned on Monday, saying he was leaving to pave the way for a “new No 10 team” to be built as Starmer tries to reset his government.

Allan, who founded the Portland Communications firm specialising in reputation management, had been in the job for only five months, and Starmer is now looking to hire his fifth communications chief since taking office in 2024.

Chris Wormald, the cabinet secretary and senior-most civil servant in Downing Street, is also reportedly under pressure to resign and is said to be currently negotiating his exit from the role, which he has been in for less than a year.

The UK’s Guardian newspaper reported that some people close to Starmer view him as a “disastrous” appointment.

What did the Epstein files reveal about Mandelson?

The latest release of files showed Mandelson maintained his relationship with Epstein after the latter was jailed in 2008.

They also suggested Mandelson received payments from the late financier and may have shared market-sensitive information with him that was of financial interest to Epstein.

Leaks of sensitive information by Mandelson allegedly took place in 2009 while he was serving as the UK’s business secretary.

The UK police have launched a criminal investigation over suspected misconduct in public office linked to Mandelson’s relationship with Epstein.

In one of the emails revealed in the most recent tranche of documents released from the US Justice Department, Mandelson told Epstein to “fight for early release” shortly before he was sentenced in 2008.

“I think the world of you,” Mandelson told Epstein, adding about his prosecution: “I can still barely understand it. It just could not happen in Britain. You have to be incredibly resilient, fight for early release and be philosophical about it as much as you can.”

How damaging has this all been for Starmer?

Starmer has apologised publicly for appointing Mandelson as ambassador to the US despite knowing of his ties – but not the extent of them, he said – to the disgraced financier.

“None of us knew the depth and the darkness of that relationship,” Starmer said on Thursday as he apologised to Epstein’s victims.

“I am sorry – sorry for what was done to you, sorry that so many people with power failed you, sorry for having believed Mandelson’s lies and appointing him.”

But this has not been enough to let him off the hook entirely, experts said.

Tim Bale, a professor of politics at Queen Mary University of London, said the scandal has been hugely damaging for Starmer. “A more popular PM might have been able to ride it out, but he was already facing a good deal of hostility from voters before it blew up,” Bale told Al Jazeera. “He’s managed so far to hold on to his cabinet, but he’s completely lost the trust of the electorate – and that’s hard to get back.”

Bale said “people are disgusted by” Starmer’s decision to appoint Mandelson “despite knowing that he’d stayed friends with Epstein after he’d been convicted”.

Can Starmer’s leadership still be challenged?

While Starmer has survived Monday night, his position is still weak with low approval ratings, experts said.

Labour is expected to suffer losses in crucial Scottish elections in May. A parliamentary by-election is also due on February 26.

“The immediate danger [to Starmer] is that [Labour] suffers catastrophic losses in a by-election and then a big set of elections in May,” Bale said. “That will reignite calls for Starmer to resign and, if he doesn’t, a challenge from one or more of his colleagues.”

Among the top runners to replace Starmer are Rayner, his former deputy prime minister who resigned from the cabinet last year over a tax scandal.

A website pitching Rayner as leader, angelaforleader.co.uk, went live in January briefly, The Guardian newspaper reported. Rayner has denied any links to the website.

Another politician gearing up to replace Starmer is Wes Streeting, the health secretary.

Streeting, 43, has also been called out for his ties with Mandelson. In a bid to distance himself from the former ambassador, Streeting this week shared private chats he had with Mandelson that questioned the government’s growth plan.

Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood, 45, is another possible successor to Starmer. She has grown popular among several right-aligned leaders of the Labour Party with her moves to tighten border controls and crack down on unauthorised immigration.

What other issues has Labour faced under Starmer?

The Labour Party swept to power in July 2024, ending nearly 14 years of Conservative rule. However, the prime minister has since had a difficult time in Downing Street.

In the 2024 elections, Reform UK, the right-wing, populist, anti-immigration party led by Farage, won just five of the 650 seats in parliament. However, it has gone on to become one of the best polling British parties. In July, a YouGov poll put Reform in the lead, predicting it could win 271 seats if elections were held then.

In his speech on Monday, Starmer called the challenge posed by the rise of the Reform party, which has won over a number of high-profile defectors from the Conservative Party in recent weeks, “a fight for our lives”.

Starmer is also facing domestic pressure to put a stop to undocumented immigration to the UK. More than 32,000 people tried to cross the English Channel from France in small boats last year. These crossings are dangerous and have resulted in many deaths.

The UK and France have laid the blame on each other for the rising numbers. This led to a “one-in-one-out” migrant deal signed between the UK and France last year, under which the UK returns one migrant to France for each accepted refugee. The scheme has had little success, however, with only a handful of migrants returned.

Starmer himself has dropped in popularity by 20 percentage points from July 2024 to January this year, according to YouGov.

“Reform has obviously spooked some in the Labour Party,” Bale said, adding, however, that Reform is eating into the Conservatives’ base more. “And Labour probably needs to worry more about the Greens and the Liberal Democrats at this stage.”

“The break-up of the two-party duopoly that has dominated British politics for a century is no longer simply an aspiration among challenger parties but an ongoing reality,” Bale said.

PREMIER Inn has opened a new hotel in London – although you wouldn’t know from the outside.

The hub by Premier Inn London Farringdon (Old Bailey) has turned an old Victorian police station into the famous hotel.

Dating back to the 1870s, Snow Hill Police Station is a Garde II listed building.

Whitbread – the owner of Premier Inn, bought the building back in 2020, with it now open to the public as a hotel.

Many of the original features such as the historic entrance way, as well as a grand atrium combining the new and old buildings.

A mix of “heritage bedrooms” as well as the classic hub rooms are part of the hotel too, with 212 rooms across eight stories.

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Along with free WiFi and accessible rooms, there is also a restaurant onsite for breakfast and dinner.

Jonathan Langdon, Senior Acquisition Manager for Whitbread, said it showed how “affordable hotels like hub by Premier Inn can breathe fresh life into vacant historic buildings in Central London”

Tom Sleigh, Chairman of the Planning and Transportation Committee at the City of London Corporation, added: “The transformation of the former Snow Hill Police Station into a modern, affordable hotel shows how heritage and planning innovation can work hand in hand, an excellent example of how thoughtful, high-quality design can bring new life to one of the City’s historic buildings.”

Some of the cheapest rooms on the website can be found for around £105 a night.

The hotel is also in the hear of the city, bring right by Farringdon train station.

Nearby is St Paul’s Cathedral as well as the London Museum.

Premier Inn is currently offering free unlimited breakfast to guests, as long as you book before February 13.

Guests must also book a ‘Non-Flex’ room for a stay between February 20 and May 14.

Wetherspoons is another budget brand known for restoring old buildings.

Many of the UK pubs are built into old cinemas, banks and town halls, with original features often restored.

Of course, some of them are newer, purpose bult buildings – including their newest which is in Spain.

We went down to the first foreign Wetherspoons – here’s what we thought.

With a palace, a castle and ancient volcano all within visiting distance of each other – it’s no wonder this Scottish city has been voted as the UK’s number for a break

The UK’s best city break has been revealed, and it’s famous for its beautiful buildings, historic castle, and even Harry Potter links.

From historic streets, to cultural spectacles, to iconic landmarks, scenic views or vibrant food scenes, the UK has a fantastic range of amazing cities for travellers to choose from but Sykes Cottages has revealed some of the highlights across the nation after a study revealed that 49 per cent of Brits choose cities for their top five breaks.

Edinburgh, which is also hailed as the UK’s most walkable city, took the top spot in the rankings. This bright and bustling city seamlessly combines the historic and the modern with Edinburgh Castle, one of the oldest fortified places in Europe, and Holyrood Palace, the official Scottish residence of the monarch originally built as an Abbey in 1128 connected by the Royal Mile, the historic spine of Edinburgh’s Old Town and the city’s world-famous Fringe Festival, one of the greatest celebrations of modern art and culture in the world.

As well as hosting the Fringe, Edinburgh is also the city where J.K Rowling lived when she was writing the Harry Potter books and people can visit The Elephant House café which is where the legendary wizard was first created.

There’s a wide array of accommodation too whether you’re looking for cosy holiday cottages or cheap hotels, although it’s worth noting that some popular seasons such as the Fringe can see prices surge in some areas.

Best UK holiday cottage deals

From £27 per night

Sykes Cottages

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Sykes Cottages offers a wide range of handpicked holiday homes across the UK and Ireland, from cosy countryside retreats to stunning coastal escapes. Prices start from £27 per night

For major Harry Potter enthusiasts, the city also offers a Harry Potter Magical Guided Walking Tour which allows people to explore Edinburgh through the lens of Harry Potter.

With storytelling, the written word and art and culture playing such a prominent part in the city, its contributions were recognised in 2004 when it became the world’s first UNESCO City of Literature.

Visitors can wander through the city’s cobbled streets and take in its incredible architecture and street designs, or hike up to Arthur’s Seat and enjoy the amazing views from atop the ancient volcano.

Calton Hill is also a must visit and is included in the city’s UNESCO World Heritage Site. The panoramic skyline views from the hill are renowned and pictures taken from there are regularly used in photographs or paintings of the city. The hill features the neoclassical landmarks including the National Monument, Nelson’s Monument and the Dugald Stewart Monument.

One reviewer of the city said: “Absolutely love Edinburgh, amazing city! So many gorgeous restaurants and cafes, lots of different vibes but I love the laid-back café culture Edinburgh does so well. Arthur’s Seat is great to climb and has gorgeous views across the city.”

Another said: “Edinburgh is a fantastic place to visit – the Royal Mile and the Castle are definitely worth a visit and there are some spectacular bars and restaurants that we thoroughly enjoyed.”

Do you think Edinburgh is the UK’s best city break? Email us at webtravel@reachplc.com

Parkdean Resorts have revealed some of the UK’s best holiday destinations and the top spot goes to a resort that’s full of beautiful beaches, independent shops and more

As Brits search for something fun to look forward to amongst the damp and drizzly that has defined the start of this year, a recent study has revealed over two-fifths (44%) are planning a UK holiday this year.

With staycations proving increasingly popular with people, Parkdean Resorts has named the seaside resort of Porthcawl in Bridgend, Wales as the best holiday destination for 2026.

Known for its excellent water quality, range of activities – including the world’s largest Elvis festival – and variety of cafés, restaurants and independent shops, this nostalgic and friendly town offers the quintessential seaside stay.

Porthcawl has seven distinctive beaches ranging from popular sandy spots to rocky coves. Rest Bay and Trecco Bay are Blue Flag beaches and popular with surfers and water sport enthusiasts. Pink Bay has unique marbled pink rocks and for a more secluded, sandy option Sker beach is the one for you.

The town has something for everyone with adventure offerings at its new Watersports Centre and its renowned Royal Porthcawl Golf Club, typical seaside activities including funfair rides and ice cream on its seafront Esplande or quiet sunsets at its seafront cafes.

Best UK holiday cottage deals

From £27 per night

Sykes Cottages

https://go.skimresources.com?id=76202X1526515&xs=1&xcust=Mirror&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sykescottages.co.uk

Sykes Cottages offers a wide range of handpicked holiday homes across the UK and Ireland, from cosy countryside retreats to stunning coastal escapes. Prices start from £27 per night

On the harbour is the RNLI station and Wales’ oldest listed bonded warehouse, the Jennings Building, which is now a bustling waterside spot with cafes and restaurants.

And for those with a little more spring in their step and shake in their hips, Porthcawl also hosts the annual Porthcawl Elvis Festival which is widely recognised as the world’s largest Elvis festival and brings tens of thousands of fans of The King and hundreds of tribute acts to the town for a weekend of competitions, shows and celebrations.

One reviewer of the festival said: “Elvis Festival Porthcawl was exactly what it said on the tin – a glorious, chaotic, slightly aft, love-in for the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll. The town went full Elvis, the fans bought the fire and the tributes acts delivered from start to finish.”

Andy Edge, Chief Marketing Officer at Parkdean Resorts, which has a holiday park in Porthcawl, said that nostalgia is playing a major part in the holiday decision making of families this year.

He said: “Nostalgia has been a key theme for 2026 already and our data suggests travel is reflecting this too. This year we’re seeing a real resurgence in some of Britain’s most loved coastal and countryside locations with travellers gravitating towards places like Porthcawl, Cayton Bay and Poole. These towns offer the perfect balance of traditional seaside charm, beautiful surroundings and easy accessibility – all key factors for people planning a staycation this year.”

He added: “For families, the best holidays are all about balance, somewhere with plenty of entertainment to keep everyone busy but relaxing enough for all to recharge. Popular seaside destinations such as Newquay, Torquay, and Porthcawl continue to be firm favourites thanks to their beaches, attractions and family-friendly activities. These locations are ideal for making memories together, whether that’s beach days, coastal walks or classic arcade fun.”