Victoria of the United Kingdom

As the nights start to draw in even earlier leading up to Christmas, TV viewers will be looking for sumptuous dramas to get lost in

ITVX is presently broadcasting a popular period drama featuring a British ruler that’s ideal for a comfortable binge-watch throughout the lengthy winter nights.

With darkness falling increasingly early in the run-up to Christmas, television enthusiasts will be seeking lavish dramas to lose themselves in.

Viewers need look no further than ITV’s digital streaming platform, which boasts an extensive range of celebrated programmes to select from.

Among the finest choices available this winter is the successful series Victoria, which launched in 2016 and featured Doctor Who’s Jenna Coleman as the youthful sovereign, charting her journey from defiant adolescent years through to responsible adulthood over three captivating seasons.

Whilst critics have targeted the programme’s shortage of historical precision, it’s undeniable that the series crafted by Daisy Goodwin provides tremendous entertainment that’s ready for exploration, or potentially a second viewing, reports the Express.

The Guardian’s favourable critique captured the essence: “As ever, it all hinges on Jenna Coleman’s performance as Victoria and her ability to conjure up a portrait of this queen as understanding, sympathetic, kind and decent, even under unimaginable and possibly imaginary pressures.

“It might not be elegant and it might not survive the strain of putting its plot points to the search engine test, but as diverting drama it gets the job done.”

An enthusiastic review from an IMDb viewer declared: “Rather captivating, I loved it. Every inch a Queen.

“I love [Coleman’s] portrayal of Victoria, she has some presence and a definite strength of character. Rufus Sewell I thought was exceptional as Lord Melbourne too, the complex relationship the pair had in real life was explained very well.

“The settings, costumes, and general production values were first rate, the show felt incredibly plush and lavish, I shudder to think of the budget for this series. Totally engaging, this was first rate viewing 9/10.”

Sadly, the series left many fans feeling let down when it was cancelled after just three seasons, leaving Queen Victoria’s story incomplete.

However, ITV gave a glimmer of hope in 2021, stating “there are no plans presently to film Victoria, but that’s not to say we won’t revisit the series with the production team at a later date”, hinting that a fourth season featuring an older Victoria might eventually be on the cards.

One hopeful fan penned: “This has been the most amazing series since Downton Abbey I have watched. I laughed, I cried, I got angry. I felt every emotion humanly possible through watching it.

“My mother and I binge watched it together and couldn’t believe how much it draws you in from beginning to end. I am so heartbroken that it has not yet come out with a 4th season. My mother and I both are. We pray they decide to release another season.

“I plead to ITV or whoever, to please give the green light for the 4th season and then some. This is an amazing love story that NEEDS to be completed.”

There’s a glimmer of hope for the series to carry on if enough viewers rewatch the series on ITVX, so it’s time to start binge-watching.

Victoria is available to stream on ITVX.

The island was named the sunniest place in the UK by the Met Office – and it gets more sunshine than parts of Italy during the winter months

You don’t need to jet off to far-flung destinations for a dose of winter sun – there’s a UK island that boasts more sunshine than parts of Italy.

The Isle of Wight has been crowned the sunniest spot in the UK by the Met Office, outshining even Milan and Geneva during the winter months.

According to research from Isle Escapes, the island enjoys an average of 78 hours of sunshine per month between November and February.

That’s a staggering 12 percent more than Milan’s 70 average hours, 15 percent more than Geneva’s 68 hours, and 20 percent more than Paris’ 65 average winter sunshine hours.

This balmy climate could be due to the warming effect of the Solent – the strait that separates the Isle of Wight from mainland England, reports the Express.

The island benefits from its own micro-climate, which means it typically avoids extreme weather conditions like heavy snowfall and thunderstorms during the winter season.

Not only is it the sunniest place in the UK, but this is particularly noticeable during the winter, when the Isle of Wight basks in 42 percent more sunshine hours than the rest of the country.

If you’re keen to soak up some of this sun for yourself, the Isle of Wight offers a fantastic island getaway without straying too far from home.

Located just off the coast of Hampshire, the island is renowned as Britain’s dinosaur capital, with the remains of over 20 species discovered on the island.

The Isle of Wight is a top-notch destination for cycling enthusiasts, boasting numerous tracks and paths that crisscross the island.

For those up to the challenge, you can cycle around the island in a day – a well-signposted route of approximately 105km.

While mostly flat, there are some inclines that will give your thighs a workout, and it can get breezy, so be prepared.

If you’re after a more laid-back holiday, the Isle of Wight has plenty to offer. There’s a host of family-friendly attractions, including the Monkey Haven animal sanctuary, home to meerkats, gibbons, and even snakes, all cared for by keepers who love to chat about their work.

History buffs can visit Osborne – Queen Victoria’s country retreat and family home, now open for tours. After her first visit to Osborne, Queen Victoria wrote: ‘It is impossible to imagine a prettier spot’, and she wasn’t wrong.

A trip to Osborne offers something for everyone. Inside the house, you’ll get a glimpse into Royal life as you explore private apartments and grand reception rooms filled with beautiful furnishings and artworks from the Royal Collection.

And if the sun is out (which it likely will be), you can stroll through flower-filled gardens and relax on the beach where the Royal children learnt to swim.

Perfect staycation town with fairytale castle surrounded by azure sea

‘Magical’ village surrounded by wooded glens and streams ‘loveliest ever’

If you’re yearning for a trip to the Isle of Wight, it’s easy to reach from mainland UK. Daily flights depart from Heathrow and Gatwick, or you can opt to fly to Bournemouth or Southampton before hopping on one of the 150 ferry connections to the island which take as little as 45 minutes.

Since the Isle of Wight is part of the UK, there’s no need for your passport – just pack your bag and perhaps a sunhat.

This picturesque seaside town in England dates back to Victorian times, and whilst it might be more low-key than other resorts, it has one of the UK’s best beaches

For some people, a trip to the seaside isn’t complete without a crowded pier, exciting rollercoasters, or a trip to the arcade – and the UK has seaside resorts like this across the country.

But this kind of scene is just not everyone’s cup of tea, and if you have been longing for a trip to the coast, minus the loud attractions – then this picturesque town in Devon that is rich with history is well worth considering for your next family holiday.

Especially if the quality of the beach is your number one priority, then this idyllic seaside town is definitely somewhere you need to check out. It’s also a firm favourite with some very famous faces.

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Sidmouth’s beach has been dubbed one of the cleanest in the UK, so it’s a great choice for people who insist on taking a dip in the sea when they are on their holidays.

On the stunning and historic Jurassic Coast, Sidmouth is picturesque, and its pebble beach has been awarded a Blue Flag for an impressive six years in a row.

From hiking in the unbelievable landscapes to relaxing on the beach itself, you’ll never forget the scenery on this beautiful stretch of coastline – Jacob’s Ladder beach is also well worth a visit.

But there is plenty to do beyond the beach itself, including visiting the town’s museum or the local donkey sanctuary.

For the youngsters, there is the Model Toy Museum, and for anyone looking to browse in the shops, they will find themselves supremely well catered to with independent retailers.

Connaught Gardens is a beautifully landscaped place to relax – but if you’re after a bit more action, consider going out on the water in a canoe, paddleboard, or kayak.

The Sun reports that TV star Stephen Fry loves Sidmouth after staying near the idyllic town while filming Jeeves and Wooster. Meanwhile, Jeremy Vine has also been open about his affection for the seaside town.

“What I love most about Sidmouth is that it feels like a town going places. It’s chintzy in places, drab in others, but it feels real. “And real by the sea is a different kind of beauty,” Vine said.

There’s so many famous people who have holidayed or spent time in Sidmouth that there is even a Blue Plaque Trail you can walk to explore all the places notable figures loved most, from literary icons to the Royal Family.

Queen Victoria, when she was still a baby Princess, came to stay in Sidmouth, and it was the sight of a major historical moment. She was staying in the Woolbrook Cottage in 1819 when her father suddenly became ill and died.

Woolbrook Cottage is now the Royal Glen Hotel, and while it wasn’t a happy moment in the young royal’s life, it shows just how rich with history the area is, and also how longstanding Sidmouth’s popularity has been.

Literary legends like Beatrix Potter, JRR Tolkein – who is said to have written the first sections of Lord of the Rings in the town – and Jane Austen, all used to holiday in Sidmouth, going back as far as 1801.

The spa waters, good climate, and chilled out atmosphere have long been part of the appeal.

With its towering medieval walls, ancient castle and lively harbour, the town is a fantastic place to visit for a day trip or staycation

With its towering walls, ancient castle and bustling harbour, Conwy is one of the most stunningly picturesque towns you’ll visit in Wales. This historic coastal retreat isn’t just popular with tourists; it even earned a spot on the Sunday Times’ list of the top places to live in the UK.

“Every kind of natural adventure is within easy reach of the brooding towers and tumbledown castle walls that cast an enchanting spell over this coastal hotspot,” they wrote of Conwy.

“Those lucky enough to live in the town can pick up groceries and grab a coffee in impeccably historic surroundings, while enjoying the reassurance of regular trains and a fast road.”

Conwy Quay is the ideal starting point for your exploration, adorned with lobster pots, entwined fishing nets, and all the delightful seaside paraphernalia you’d expect. Right next to The Liverpool Arms there’s even a convenient information board displaying the current rates if you’re considering docking your boat in the harbour, reports Wales Online.

Along the harbour, you’ll also discover one of Conwy’s most charming features: The Smallest House in Great Britain. Acknowledged by the Guinness Book of World Records, this petite red-fronted dwelling measures a mere 72 inches wide and 122 inches high and was inhabited until May 1900.

It’s been handed down through the same family for over 130 years. Its last known resident was a 6ft 3in fisherman named Robert Jones. Today, it serves as a quaint attraction and picture-perfect backdrop.

Things to do in Conwy

If you fancy a pint with a view, pop into The Liverpool Arms, the oldest traditional pub in Conwy town.

Situated right on the waterfront, just across the road from the quay and beaches, it’s particularly popular on a warm day with patrons spilling out onto the streets. History, harbour views and a good pint, what more could you ask for?

Alongside the harbour, Conwy’s main attraction is the Castell Conwy (Conwy Castle) and its walls.

Part of Wales’ UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Castell Conwy boasts a concentric design with eight towers. It’s a key component of King Edward I’s “Iron Ring”, a chain of impressive fortresses built in Wales during the late 13th century to cement English dominance following the conquest of Wales.

Visitors can delve into the inner and outer wards, which house numerous rooms, and explore the castle walls, which feature 21 towers and fully encircle the town of Conwy.

Recognised for its aesthetic appeal and historical importance, the castle was dubbed one of Europe’s ‘most beautiful’ by influential publication Condé Nast Traveller.

They noted: “Aside from getting us one step closer to living out our fairytale fantasies, the staggering structures showcase some of the world’s best architecture, most stunning landscapes, and maybe even a ghost story or two. There’s perhaps no better place on earth to find awe-inspiring castles than in Europe, where it seems like you can’t visit a city or take a road trip without stumbling upon some sort of royal dwelling.”

Like many historical structures in Wales, Conwy Castle is said to be haunted, much to the delight of ghost hunters and paranormal fans.

Eerie sightings have included various silhouettes and dark figures observed from the battlements and windows overlooking the town. Given that King Henry VIII used the castle as a prison in the 16th century, many believe these apparitions to be former inmates.

In 2016, a group of paranormal investigators claimed to have captured the voice of a young girl spirit uttering ‘don’t tell them’. Not exactly what you want to hear in a dim, echoing fortress. In 2020, a man snapped a photo outside Conwy Castle, which he believes shows a procession of phantoms led by a male ghost with a sword, as reported by North Wales Live.

Once you’ve had your fill of castles and spectres, it’s time for a treat, and Dylan’s Restaurant is just the place. Established in 2012, Dylan’s aimed to celebrate the produce, character, and natural beauty of North Wales, and they’ve hit the mark with this latest venture.

The menu is a heartfelt tribute to local produce, gathered from across the region and served in a building as stunning as the dishes themselves. From the upper levels, you can enjoy panoramic views of the 13th-century St Mary’s Church and Conwy Castle.

For somewhere to stay, the Quay Hotel and Spa is a great option.

This destination spa hotel boasts breathtaking views of the grand Conwy Castle and estuary and is conveniently situated near the Welsh towns of Conwy and Llandudno.