underrated

IN a few years, Bedfordshire will be one of the top places to visit in the country when the UK’s first Universal theme park opens there.

But according to one local, there’s so much that you can do in the county already, especially its namesake town, Bedford.

Lydia Pettet has lived in Bedford for almost all of her life, and makes it her mission to get others to love Bedfordshire just as much as she does.

She shows the best of the county on her social media account lydeatsfood – and here are her top spots.

New Theme Park

Of course we have to start with the upcoming theme park.

In April 2025, it was announced that Bedford would become the location of Universal’s very first UK theme park.

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And work behind the scenes has already started as Universal has found a temporary headquarters close to its planned site.

The company has taken over the top floor of Bedford Borough Hall on Cauldwell Street, which is already home to Bedford Borough Council.

The US firm was granted planning permission in December 2025 to build a destination across 662 acres on a former brickworks at Kempston.

Once it’s fully up and running which is scheduled for 2031, the theme park is expected to get 8.5million each year.

Food

As for what to do now, some might be unaware that Bedfordshire has strong Italian heritage.

Back in the 1950s, Italians were recruited to work at the brickworks, the site of the new Universal theme park.

Lydia explained that many never left resulting in lots of incredible Italian restaurants popping up around the county.

Bedford in particular has some top eats. Lydia told Sun Travel: “If you come to Bedford, expect incredible Italian food. One of my favourites is A Casa Di Anna, which is run by a lovely couple called Stefano and Anna.

“We’ve got Santaniello Pizzeria which is one of, if not the oldest restaurant still open in Bedford.

“Its menu is very limited – it’s actually been the same for my entire life. Inside it’s got the classic plastic gingham table cloths and you can’t go wrong with the breadsticks, a margherita and finish off with a shot of Limoncello.

“Other modern Italian restaurants include The Higgins Pantry, which is inside the Higgins Museum. Or La Terrazza which is more date night, girls night vibes.”

Other must-try foods in Bedford include the ‘Bedfordshire Clanger’ – a half sweet, half savoury pastry that you can buy at the Gunns Bakery in Sandy.

Most interestingly, it has a speciality called ‘chocolate toothpaste’ which Lydia explained is an “old school dessert”.

It’s made from shortcrust pastry with a chocolate filling with a swirl of whipped cream on top.

Lydia added: “Every cafe in Bedford sells them – so I’d encourage every tourist to try one.”

Hotels

When it comes to where to stay in Bedford, Lydia recommends the newly renovated The Swan Hotel.

It was built in the 1700s and recently reopened in September 2025 after adding 24 rooms and a new fitness suite.

Lydia says it’s a great spot for those who want some “luxury“.

Inside are 137 rooms which range from the classic double all the way to the Junior Suite.

It has an on-site brasserie and restaurant in a pretty conservatory that looks over the River Ouse.

Depending on the time of day guests, or visitors, can pop in to munch on breakfasts, Sunday lunches, dinners and afternoon tea.

The hotel also has a Thermal Spa with pools and three experience showers from mist to a dousing bucket with cold water.

The vitality pool has massage benches, neck and body massage jets and air beds.

It has a traditional steam room, a Finnish sauna for relaxation, a steam lounger and a relaxation space.

Non-guests are welcome to use the spa too, a one hour session is £20, with two hours priced from £30.

Other packages include a traditional afternoon tea and two hour spa session for £48.

Activities

Every summer, Bedford Park holds the Bedford Summer Sessions – essentially a music festival.

The summer of 2026 will see Deacon Blue, UB40, Tom Grennan and Paul Weller take to the stage.

Single day admission starts from £58.80 per person, while a four-day festival pass is priced at £199 per person.

If you’re a fan of comedy, you might get the chance to see some big names in Bedford.

Lydia has seen the likes of Alan Carr and Joel Dommett on home turf before.

She said: “They test out material before heading to the big cities.”

If you don’t fancy paying for entertainment then across one weekend this year is the Bedford River Festival.

Lydia revealed “it’s the biggest free festival in the country after Notting Hill Carnival, this year it’s on between 18-19 July.

“It has live music and races down the river in boats. There’s lots of food, lots of gift stalls and they have a community stage with dance schools and choirs.

“Then we have the Bedford Italian festival which is held every year and Summer Sessions in Bedford Park.”

Throughout the rest of the year, the river is often used for watersports.

Popular activities on the river include canoeing and kayaking.

You’ll find Box End Park in Bedford, on the lake is a huge inflatable which opens from April 2026.

The lake is a popular spot for open water swimming, wakeboarding, water skiing and paddleboarding.

For more on Bedfordshire, an iconic tourist attraction inspired this suburban leisure centre which is set to get a revamp.

In the neighbouring county, here’s more on the UK’s ‘worst big town’ – and why it’s a great alternative day trip to London.

Where can you go if you want a lovely coastal alternative? My suggestion would be one of my favourite, underrated spots in Wales.

As many of us will well know, popular UK seaside destinations can be very crowded during half-terms and summer holidays as the masses descend for a break by the sea. But where can you go if you want a lovely coastal alternative?

I’ve got a suggestion and it’s one of my favourite spots — and hugely under-rated. Once synonymous with heavy industry and commercial docks, Milford Haven is now making waves as an exciting destination for tourism. Dominating the estuary, this historic harbour town in south-west Wales has had a striking transformation thanks to a multi-million-pound regeneration project that has turned its waterfront into a bustling hub of food, fun and on-the-water living.

It’s a lovely alternative to busy Tenby if you’re looking for a new location for a family break or a couple’s escape. At the heart of the town’s impressive revival is Milford Waterfront, a stylishly redeveloped marina that’s fast earning a name for itself – and is becoming somewhere worth travelling to in its own right.

Formed by a ria, or drowned valley, the Milford waterway is known for being one of the deepest natural harbours in the world and is still Wales’ largest fishing port and home to the local inshore fleet. Today, it’s still a fishing port but is now a mixed-use space for locals and tourists featuring berths, floating accommodation, shops and restaurants.

From a 17th-century Quaker whaling town and shipbuilding outpost to a modern marina, Milford Haven has become one of my go-to weekend break spots. Here, you’ll find independent bars, locally owned shops, gallery spaces, and an increasingly sophisticated dining scene that’s starting to rival Tenby in both quality and character.

Where to stay in Milford Haven

One of the most striking additions to Milford’s astonishing facelift is the Tŷ Milford Waterfront hotel, which opened in 2022. It’s managed and operated by the team responsible for the iconic five-star Celtic Manor Resort and forms part of The Celtic Collection’s expanding portfolio and the Tŷ Hotels family in partnership with the Port of Milford Haven.

Tŷ Milford is one of Pembrokeshire’s largest hotels, with 100 bedrooms and a gorgeous glass-fronted restaurant, and it’s my favourite place to stay in the area.

Since opening, the hotel has garnered positive reviews and was crowned Hotel of the Year at the Visit Pembrokeshire – Trade Croeso Awards in 2024. Ensure our latest news and sport headlines always appear at the top of your Google Search by making us a Preferred Source. Click here to activate or add us as Preferred Source in your Google search settings

Despite its four-star status and stylish interiors, it’s surprisingly affordable with advance purchase rooms starting from £104. You can also bag great deals on sites like Booking.com and Holiday Cottages.

The Dulse restaurant and bar is a real highlight, serving some of the best seafood in Pembrokeshire. This stylish restaurant is named after Pembrokeshire’s edible, versatile seaweed, which grows abundantly along the rocky coastline. Definitely order the Tenby Harbwr Beer Battered Haddock, it’s divine.

I would also highly recommend the Luxury Glamping Cabins on the marina, where you can stay on the water from £80 per cabin.

Things to do in the town

Step outside your accommodation and you’ll find plenty to do here. The boat-filled marina offers plenty of bars, independent shops, and cafes to explore. History and heritage are also thoughtfully displayed through walking trails and the volunteer-run Milford Haven Museum. The museum tells the story of Milford Haven and its proud maritime heritage.

Inside, you can explore exhibits and collections that cover the Nantucket Quaker Whalers, the fishing industry, and the nautical town’s crucial role in meeting the world’s energy demands.

Wander further along the waterfront, and you’ll find boutique shopping, cafes, seafood restaurants, and even a chocolate shop.

The port also hosts a busy calendar of events, including its popular summer campaign, which features a fish festival, a beer festival, and a street food festival. Children’s activities and seasonal events, such as fireworks displays and Santa visits, also take place throughout the year.

Where to eat and drink in Milford Haven

Some of the foodie offerings in the marina include artisan chocolates from Dilly’s Chocolates, ice cream from Scoop Parlour and sweets from Scott’s. For lush seafood, try the seared scallops, prawns or pan-fried hake fillet at Martha’s Vineyard, a family-run bar and restaurant with glorious views over the Milford Haven Waterway.

There are several cafes along the Waterfront that serve breakfast and lunch, including the Spinnaker Café, Foam and the traditional Crow’s Nest Café, where you can get a proper fry-up or bacon bap.

Further along the waterfront, you’ll find dinner and drinks at quayside restaurant Coco’s, housed in the Grade II-listed ‘Sail Loft’ building. Pembrokeshire produce features where possible on their menu, and local tipples are also available at this upscale venue.

Activities around the town

Looking for something more active? At Milford Beach Activity Centre, you can experience stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking from the Hot Water Slip and explore the historic Milford Haven Waterway shorelines.

This local business operates out of a blue shipping container overlooking Milford Beach and offers guided tours, stand-up paddleboard rentals, and kayak hire.

Go on a guided tour of the estuary with their experienced guides to better understand the area’s history, including the Vikings that settled here, the Welsh fishing industry, the town’s military connection, and past industries.

Milford Haven is also a fantastic base for exploring the Pembrokeshire coast year-round.

A short drive from Milford Haven, Broad Haven Beach is a wide, sandy expanse perfect for a relaxing day by the sea. In the summer season, this family-friendly beach offers excellent facilities, including lifeguards, making it safe for swimming and sunbathing. On colder days, it’s still lovely to bring a flask of hot chocolate and have a bracing walk along the shoreline.

Marloes Sands is another great shout for dramatic cliffs, golden sands, and crystal-clear waters.

Surrounded by cliffs, accessible only on foot and only when the tide allows, the effort of getting to this remote Welsh beach is well worth it, with unspoiled sands, rocky outcrops and a sea with the most vibrant shades of blue.

At low tide, the sand stretches out forever, revealing rock pools teeming with tiny crabs and sea anemones.

To reach the beach, you’ll need to park at the National Trust car park, about a half-mile away, and walk down. It’s a bit of a stomp, especially if you’re carrying beach gear, but you’re rewarded straight away with sweeping views of the coastline and distant glimpses of Skokholm and Skomer islands, both rich in birdlife.

If you want to make the most of your visit, lace up your walking boots and do the Marloes Peninsula coastal circuit. The National Trust has listed a brilliant circular walk that takes you across farmland, along the Wales Coast Path and through the remains of Iron Age forts.

THE £100million plans to revamp Plymouth’s train station have been scrapped.

It was set to be a new ‘gateway’ for the city, completely transforming the current site – but these plans are now under review and unlikely to go ahead.

Back in 2018, designs were first drawn up to transform the Devonshire station with a huge outdoor plaza and a revamp of Plymouth‘s train terminal.

The project called Brunel Plaza, would have seen 100 new homes built, a new hotel and a multi-storey car park.

There would have been a large pedestrian area too and outdoor dining spaces with seating areas.

The former railway offices behind the station were earmarked to become part of the university campus.

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In the original plans this was even considered to have a top floor viewing room, and even a sky cafe, which was going to act as a “beacon” at night for the city.

It was being developed by AHR, which had been appointed by US-based engineering giant Tetra Tech to develop the Brunel Plaza design on behalf of Plymouth City Council.

Their initial document said the idea was to develop the public area outside Plymouth Station to create a mainly pedestrian area that will create a welcoming spot to those arriving in Plymouth.

At the time, it said the upgrade was needed because “the railway station and its surrounding environment currently acts as a poor gateway and arrival point into Plymouth”.

In 2024 the council said the plan faced years of delay, there were also questions about funding and certain planning consent had expired.

Part of the transformation did go ahead however, the former railway offices are now part of the University of Plymouth.

Called Intercity, the building was renovated and opened in 2023 as a place for trainee healthcare professionals.

Plymouth City Council has now said it will review the scheme and bring out a new business plan later this year.

It also said that it is looking at a package of ways to improve public transport for Plymouth.

The city was once dubbed one of the most ‘underrated’ places to visit in the UK.

In 2023, Time Out revealed the 14 destinations that should be on your list this year that aren’t the usual tourist spots.

Plymouth came in seventh place thanks to its art scene and rich history.

While the plans to renovate the train station for Plymouth have been paused, local media further added that a train station is being considered in Plympton.

The Plymouth suburb did once have a train station, but it closed to passengers in 1959 and to goods traffic until 1954.

Shortly afterwards it was demolished.

Some expressed they would like to see a station return – one local wrote on a Facebook post: “The station at Plympton is a must and it’s great that they are finally looking at bringing it back.”

A proposal to open a station at Plympton was first raised in 2018, but no official plans have been made or drawn up.

For more on train stations, here are seven new ones coming to the UK under £14billion plans.

And here’s the UK’s busiest train station with 100million passengers which has finally got the go ahead for controversial £1.2billion expansion.

All nine seasons now have a new streaming home making it easier for fans to rediscover

An underrated sitcom that some claim is even ‘better than Malcolm in the Middle’ was just added to Netflix.

All seasons of The Middle are now available to stream on the platform from today (February 18). It actually shares a very similar premise and set up to the comedy series it is compared to but some find it superior if not as well recognised.

There’s no better time for fans to find out for themselves as The Middle finds a new streaming home, as we all wait for the upcoming revival of Malcom in the Middle coming later in the year.

According to the synopsis of The Middle, the series follows the Heck family. At the head of the clan is middle-age, middle-class, middle-America mom Frankie Heck who uses a sense of humour to try to steer her family through life’s ups and downs as she tackles her career goals.

Her unflappable husband, Mike, is a manager at the local quarry. Oldest son Axl is an obstinate young man; awkward daughter Sue cannot seem to find her niche, despite much enthusiasm in her attempts and youngest son Brick is an unusual child whose best friend is his backpack.

The cast is lead by sitcom legends including Patricia Heaton, who won two Emmys during her time as Debra Barone on Everybody Loves Raymond. She is joined by Neil Flynn, who plays her on screen husband and is recognisable as the Janitor on Scrubs.

A debate on Reddit discusses whether The Middle was a better show than Malcolm in the Middle with opinion fairly split. One replied simply: “I love both shows but The Middle is my favourite show.”

While someone else claimed: “Malcom In The Middle fell off around season 4, while The Middle had consistent, solid quality for the entirety of the show. They are also nothing alike, they are only similar in the fact they are both about a middle class family.”

Either way, most fans agree that The Middle is worth streaming on its own merit. With some critics even agreeing that it is ‘one of TV’s most underrated comedies’.

As one fan agreed: “An underrated show of brilliance. The Middle is a superb show that has sadly never really gained the wider acclaim it deserves, though it has a very loyal fan base, and that’s just as important. This show wouldn’t have lasted half as long if it wasn’t for the casting of the kids, who steal episodes with their portrayals. We have seen them grow up, and it’s been a joy.”

While one fan added: “What I love about this show is that it’s not just any easy shallow cheap written comedy show. There are a lot of gags and ‘inside’ jokes that return throughout the series, which I like because it shows the writers put effort into it, and make the show funnier watching it as a regular, it’s great!

“Also, they are not a picture perfect family what a lot of shows are about, but at the heart of it all they do love each other, this feels more ‘real’. From my point of view this show is very underrated, I highly recommend it!”

Someone else actually claimed another sitcom was the reason it was so overlooked. They said: “This show should have been much bigger than it was. It was definitely overshadowed by Modern Family.”

The Middle is streaming on Netflix and ITVX. For the latest showbiz, TV, movie and streaming news, go to the new **Everything Gossip** website.

A prequel to one of the most acclaimed sci-fi films of all time has just been added to Netflix and fans are already eating it up

A sci-fi film directed by Ridley Scott that’s been praised by fans as a “masterpiece” is available to stream now in the UK. Prometheus (2012) is the fifth instalment in the iconic Alien franchise, and follows scientists who uncover startling clues that humanity may have been created by an ancient alien race, and journey to a remote world to investigate.

However, in their quest to solve the mystery they stumble upon a terrifying discovery that could spell the end of the human race. The psychological thriller boasts an all-star ensemble cast, including Noomi Rapace, Michael Fassbender, Guy Pearce, Idris Elba, Logan Marshall-Green, and Charlize Theron.

The film acts as a prequel to the first film in the franchise, Alien (1979) which was also helmed by Scott, and generated a number of successful sequels directed by Hollywood titans including James Cameron and David Fincher, as well as a cross-over franchise, Alien vs. Predator.

Mere hours after its release on the platform and it has already reached the number two spot on Netflix’s top 10 films.

One fan, writing on Rotten Tomatoes, called Prometheus a “masterpiece”. “This movie expands the Alien world and lore,” they added.

“The acting is top notch. The sci-fi horror element is incredible. Very existential. Watch it with commentary,” reports the Express.

Another described simply as the “Best movie of all time”.

Not everyone was impressed by the prequel, with one writing whilst Prometheus “looks phenomenal” its “strong visuals cannot hide weak writing”.

“The dialogue feels stiff and unnatural, making it hard to connect with the characters.”

Another commented: “It’s frustrating how amazing this film could’ve been. Solid cast, beautifully shot, original story. Scott should’ve either made a film about our creators or an Alien prequel; instead the two elements get too muddled together and neither gets full service.”

**For the latest showbiz, TV, movie and streaming news, go to the new **Everything Gossip** website**

However, others believed it matched the high benchmark established by the franchise’s stronger entries.

One remarked: “This was a perfectly cast movie. It gave excellent insight into the origins of the Alien lore. Excellently tied in with the existing movies. Not too many Aliens ripping people apart but plenty of action. Truly a great movie.”

Another rejected criticism of the picture, claiming it’s “gripping, thought provoking, visually stunning and entertaining from start to finish”.

A third branded it an “incredible and impactful film that deserves to be seen multiple times”.

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A fourth described it as “massively underrated in the Alienverse”, boasting a “strong script, amazing cast”, and visual effects that are “on point”.

The film carries a 15 certificate and features strong violence, gore, alongside threat and horror – so viewer discretion is recommended.

Prometheus arrived on Netflix in the UK on Monday (February 16). It’s also accessible to stream on Disney+, and available to rent or purchase on various platforms, including Apple TV, Amazon Prime Video, and Sky Store.

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

FINALLY the Southbank Centre is getting (some of) the attention it deserves.

This week, the brutalist building on the Thames near the London Eye
has been listed for its brutalist appearance.

But its looks are only part of its appeal.

As a travel writer and mum living in London, I’ve long considered it
to be one of the capital’s greatest attractions for families.

I schlep up to Waterloo every other month with my 7 year old to one of
their many free, or affordable activities for kids.

We’ve done their soft play using recycled materials, seen at least
three of their excellent family theatre shows (where you can get
tickets from around £12 to £20 depending on the show), have built a
Moomin House at a free workshop using saws and hammers and, most
recently, had a free drawing lesson with a well-known doodle artist
and attended a free kids rave.

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So many of the events that Southbank puts on for families on weekends
and in school holidays are completely free, but what makes them even
better in my opinion, is how wonderfully varied they are.

Take next week, for instance, when they are holding an ‘Imagine
Festival’ for half term.

The nine-day roster includes an interactive dance rave for children and
their families with deaf hosts, a live gig by CBBC’s Andy And The Odd
Socks, the theatre production of Mrs Armtiage On Wheels, a wildlife
jamboree and a pop-up Parkour session – and this just scratches the
surface, there are MANY more activities too.

I’m particularly looking forward to taking my son to the musical
version of the Dog Man comic books, which will be shown at the centre
this summer.

Another free event coming to the destination soon is the Quentin Blake: The Southbank Parade from February 17.

The famous illustrator and author has made his memories of the 1951 Festival of Britain into an installation across the Southbank Centre.

I could probably go on for another 300 words about how wonderful this
institution is – so if you are planning a trip to London, do make sure
to check out the What’s On section of their website and see if anything appeals.

The 1960s Brutalist landmark has battled for a Grade II listed status for more than three decades, and finally got accepted this week.

Specific buildings at the site that have been given Grade II listed status include the centre’s Queen Elizabeth Hall, Purcell Room, Hayward Gallery and terraced walkways and stairs.

The riverside centre opened back in 1967 and at the time it was voted as Britain’s ugliest building by Daily Mail readers.

The building was also the only post-war building on London’s South Bank to remain unlisted.

Twentieth Century Society and Historic England had recommended listing the Southbank Centre on six occasions since 1991, but the recommendation was rejected by the Secretary of State each time, until now.

Historic England argued that the Southbank Centre needed protection due to its “bold geometric formations, clustered to sculptural effect with a correspondingly dramatic silhouette”.

The use of exposed concrete was also praised, saying it had been “executed with exemplary technical skill”.

Twentieth Century Society director Catherine Croft said: “The battle has been won, and Brutalism has finally come of age.

“This is a victory over those who derided so-called ‘concrete monstrosities’ and shows a mature recognition of a style where Britain led the way.

“The lack of listing had become a complete anomaly.

“It is admired as one of the best Brutalist buildings in the world, so this decision is obviously very well deserved and long overdue.

“The arts complex is a highly sophisticated, sculptural masterpiece, with enormous richness of form and detail inside and out.

“The experience it gives concert goers and gallery visitors is unlike any other venue in the country, its virtuoso spaces still unrivalled.”

In other attraction news, how to get into hundreds of the UK’s top attractions for FREE next month.

Plus, new one-of-kind attraction at UK’s Warner Bros Studio is perfect for Harry Potter nerds like me .

The conspiracy thriller series has been hailed a “masterpiece” and left fans devastated when it was axed.

Television fans searching for their next gripping watch have been encouraged to discover a conspiracy thriller series being praised as a “masterpiece”. Utopia, penned by Dennis Kelly and featuring Fiona O’Shaughnessy, Adeel Akhtar, Paul Higgins and Nathan Stewart-Jarrett, debuted on Channel 4 in 2013, with its second series arriving the following year.

The sci-fi drama centres on a group of graphic novel enthusiasts who become convinced that a comic book, The Utopia Experiments, foretold various catastrophic epidemics and significant global events including mad cow disease. They embark on a quest to locate a rumoured unpublished follow-up that might contain warnings about future mysteries waiting to unfold.

After one member of the group gets hold of a manuscript, he arranges to meet fellow online forum members in person, only to be murdered shortly afterwards. The remaining four manage to meet up and obtain the manuscript, but quickly find themselves entangled in a dangerous maze of deception as a shadowy organisation known as The Network pursues it relentlessly.

Operatives from The Network will stop at nothing to secure the manuscript, eliminating anyone who stands between them and their target as they search for both the document and an individual called Jessica Hyde (portrayed by Fiona). It later emerges that Jessica’s father authored the Utopia manuscripts, and she’s spent her entire existence evading The Network’s clutches.

As the group becomes entangled in The Network’s web, their lives unravel and the organisation’s true intentions emerge. Concurrently, they grapple with understanding the unfolding situation amidst a backdrop of terrifying global events, including whispers of a “Russian flu”, which has since drawn parallels to the Covid-19 pandemic, reports the Express. However, Kelly has firmly dismissed any connections, maintaining that his work is purely fictional.

Thirteen years after its initial release, viewers are rekindling their interest in Utopia. One Reddit user seeking recommendations for British thrillers wrote: “Hello there! I’m looking for some good British thrillers to watch. I really enjoyed The Day of the Jackal, The Capture, and Steal. Anything in that vibe would be great.” A fellow user promptly suggested: “If you like a bit of a conspiracy I recommend Utopia. In my view a underrated cinematic masterpiece.”

On Rotten Tomatoes, Utopia boasts an impressive 100% rating. One reviewer described it as a “Dark, creepy, disturbing, entertaining show. This is 2013 show, but looking through events current pandemic 2020 year, it may make you feel uncomfortable.”

Another hailed it as “the best show ever made” praising it as “thrilling, suspenseful, unsettling, tense.”

Another hailed it as “the best TV show you’ve probably never heard of,” gushing: “Utopia is a masterpiece! Not only is this one of the most intense and twisted shows I’ve ever seen, it’s also absolutely beautiful! The cinematography alone left me in awe and don’t even get me started on the soundtrack! This is not your typical TV show. In fact it’s a whole lot more than just a TV show. It’s an artwork that is being unfolded in front of your very eyes.”

One devotee described it as “devastatingly sublime,” claiming the series will “ravage your senses”. Others labelled it “a hidden and forgotten gem” and “mindblowing”.

A particularly passionate viewer declared: “This is my absolute favourite show ever. Everything is done to absolute perfection. Criminally underrated and such a shame they cancelled it.”

Viewers were left heartbroken when Channel 4 pulled the plug on Utopia in 2014. A network spokesperson reflected at the time: “Utopia is truly channel-defining: strikingly original, powered by Dennis Kelly’s extraordinary voice and brought to life in all its technicolor glory through Marc Munden’s undeniable creative flair and vision, the team at Kudos delivered a series which has achieved fervent cult status over two brilliantly warped and nail-biting series.

“It also has the honour of ensuring audiences will never look at a spoon in the same way again. It’s always painful to say goodbye to shows we love, but it’s a necessary part of being able to commission new drama, a raft of which are launching on the channel throughout 2015.”

Utopia can be streamed on Tubi.

THE UK’s capital is one of the priciest cities in the world, making it
tricky to explore if your bank balance is already in the red.

But there’s one corner of London that’s the perfect budget day out- especially if you’re a broke Gen Z.

Camden in North London has long been a magnet for young Brits, from the punk scene in the 1980s to Britpop fans in the 1990s, to the Indie kids of the Noughties.

After the heyday of the Hawley Arms and bands like the Libertines, the
area lost its cool status to the likes of Hackney and Shoreditch in the east of the city.

But, it is now having a resurgence thanks to its wide range of live music venues – which Camden has managed to maintain while other areas face mass closures thanks to rising costs and noise complaints.

Great nightlife and budget-friendly – the perfect combination for anyone under 25 years old.

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To see just how affordable it really can be, I attempted to spend a day in Camden without spending more than £25, while still enjoying great food, drinks and attractions.

I started off wandering around the world-famous Camden Market, one of the largest markets in London where even on a budget, there is plenty to see and do.

Stalls sell everything from vintage costume jewellery and slogan t-shirts for a tenner,  to the usual I Love London souvenirs.

Camden has always been known for its unique clothes stores and these days, it still has plenty of second-hand clothing.

Rokit and Traid both have stores on the high street and the market is also home to The Vintage Collection, which stocks Britain’s ‘largest collection of non-worn vintage from the 30s to the 90s,’ – which is great fun to look through.

Or if you’re looking for a bit of art and culture, The Camden Arts Centre offers free entry into its  galleries and gardens six days a week.

All that perusing had got me hungry, but thankfully the market has a massive selection of food options with over a hundred food stalls from around the world.

When it comes to food, I opted for the TikTok viral Funky Chips that sells boxes of chip shop-style chips loaded with Indian and Mexican-style toppings.

They weren’t the cheapest, as the nacho chips covered in cheese, onions and jalapenos set me back £9.60 – they were filling and worth every penny.

There are plenty of places to sit and enjoy your street stall food near the market without needing to book or spend extra money.

The market is also home to past Camden resident Amy Winehouse’s statue, which still attracts fans from all over the world 15 years after she passed away.

Having filled my stomach, I was looking for some entertainment so headed for The Elephants Head in the heart of Camden high street, which offers free regular live music events.

On the day I visited, the venue was hosting bands from around the UK, with the Brighton band Cade drawing in the biggest crowd of the day, both inside and outside the venue.

The venue also offers two pints for £12.50, meaning it is a great budget-friendly spot for young people.  Where else could you enjoy four hours of free live music?

Of course, if you’re looking for big nights out with a bigger budget, then Camden also houses several huge music venues, including KOKO, the Jazz Cafe and the Roundhouse.

For those looking for some peace, the Regents Canal offers a quiet escape from the bustling crowds of the high street with its colourful longboats, buskers and street art.

This is a prime spot for young people during summer as it is filled with independent cafes, offering other great, cheap lunch alternatives.

If the weather is on your side, it is also worth visiting the neighbouring Primrose Hill, for its panoramic, skyline views of the capital.

Once afternoon turned to evening, I headed to The Lock Inn to take full advantage of their 2-for-1 cocktail deals and rooftop bar.

The deal means you can get two quality cocktails costing £13.95 or just £6.97 every Monday – Friday during Happy Hour.

If cocktails aren’t your bag, head down to The Dublin Castle for affordable pints and more live music or DJ sets.

This popular boozer is known for its ties to Amy Winehouse, with many of her early gigs being here, and these days it attracts an eclectic mix of local locals and fans of the Back To Black star.

It had been a long day, with shopping, TikTok-famous food, a gallery, live music, park hangs and evening cocktails – and how much lighter was my wallet? Just £23.

Not bad for 12 hours in one of the world’s priciest cities.

For more on budget breaks, here are the best cheap destinations to visit every month and the free things you can do there.

And the Sun’s Travel Editor’s top hacks for having the cheapest EVER break with Hols From £9.50.

Gwithian Beach forms part of three miles of beach called the Towans, which is Cornish for dunes, and is perfect for all the family and even the dog

A gorgeous spacious beach often overlooked by tourists has received a huge boost after a UK travel content creator visited it and described it as ‘the most underrated beach in the UK’.

Gwithian Beach – also known as Gwithian Towans – is near Hayle, just north of St Ives in Cornwall, and is a beautiful, quiet area that forms part of three miles of beach called the Towans, which is Cornish for ‘dunes’.

Filled with rock pools, dramatic cliffs and miles of sand stretching out to Hayle, this is a great spot for families interested in exploring marine life and untamed wilderness. The beach also has two cafes, toilets and a large car park and is great for swimming, surfing, windsurfing, kite-buggying and rock pooling at low tide.

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Travel content creator Hannah – who posts on social media under the handle, hannahsukwanders – described it as ‘one of her favourite beaches in Cornwall’.

In her review of it, she said: “It’s a beautiful golden sandy beach with stunning cliffs to back it. The beach was dotted with natural sea pools and it’s also a great surfing spot thanks to its Atlantic swells.”

It also has a lifeguard on duty during the summer season and is dog-friendly all year round, except from 10am – 6pm in July and August.

Hannah added: “There are miles of incredible sand dunes ad at low tide you can access other beaches too. If you’re lucky to might spot grey seals and the beach is a great habitat for seabirds too.

“Watching Godrevy Lighthouse turn into a silhouette with the sunset behind is definitely a view to behold.”

Hundreds of Instagram users flooded Hannah’s comments section after her post telling her to keep quiet about her find because it’s such a special place.

One commenter said: “Sshhh don’t tell anyone about this beach, it’s the best sandy beach in the world IMHO.”

Another wrote: “So lucky to say this is just down the road from me. Special memories made since I was little, growing up here and now with my own children. It’s a special place for sure.”