visited

THE Cotswolds are a sought out holiday spot for lots of celebrities – with even the likes of Kourtney Kardashian visiting.

One of the most beautiful is Bourton-on-the-Water, considered the ‘Venice of the Cotswolds’ thanks to its riverside restaurants and little stone bridges across the water.

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With it being one of the prettiest villages in the UK, it’s no wonder that celebs like Kourtney Kardashian are drawn to it.

The TV personality known for Keeping Up With the Kardashians revealed her stay on social media.

Posting pictures of a three-bedroom cottage, she said: “Dreamy storybook fairytale enchantment.”

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Called Stepping Stones, the cottage has now undergone a £50,000 makeover – as part of a £100,000 refurbishment project of properties owned by Cotswold Cottages.

Stepping Stones sits right next to the River Windrush which flows through the village.

The three bedrooms sleep five with a private patio where guests can enjoy dinners outside.

Inside, there’s a modern kitchen, cosy lounge area with a fireplace, and bedrooms with new furnishings.

Cotswold Cottages announced that work on Stepping Stones was completed this week.

It was part of a wider project, of which the first stage focused on the four neighbouring one-bedroom cottages; Kestrel, Robin, Swallow and Skylark Cottage.

These were completely overhauled with new kitchens and bathrooms along with new furniture as well.

For more hotels to stay in around the UK – here are some of our favourites…

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Margate House, Kent

This stylish boutique hotel is in a seaside townhouse, a short walk from Margate’s coolest bars and restaurants. Decked out with plush velvet sofas, candles flickering and striking independent art, inside feels like a warm welcome home. Rooms are stunning, especially the ones that give you a glimpse of the sea.

BOOK HERE

The Alan, Manchester

The Alan looks extremely grand, being built into a beautiful Grade II listed building. Spread across six floors, with 137 rooms, each one looks like a fancy design magazine. From the concrete coffee tables to the pink plastered walls, the industrial-inspired designs perfectly replicate the history of the city.

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The Queen at Chester Hotel

This historic hotel has welcomed the likes of Charles Dickens and Lillie Langtry through its doors. Rooms have richly-patterned carpets with super soft bed linen and premium toiletries in the bathroom. Go for a superior room for extra goodies including bathrobes and snack boxes.

BOOK HERE

The University Arms Hotel, Cambridge

This Cambridge hotel is in the ideal spot, within walking distance to bars, shops and hotspots like the university colleges and Parker’s Piece. The inside couldn’t be prettier, with huge stained glass windows, grand chandeliers, and rooms with enormous clawfoot bath tubs.

BOOK HERE

Bourton-on-the-Water has lots of spots that draws in celebrity visitors, like its perfumery which was established in 1966.

It’s set inside a 300-year-old building and is known for creating bespoke scents – even the late Queen Elizabeth II was a former client.

It also operates a one-day perfume-making course which starts from £325.

The village has a Model Village too which is the only one of its kind in the country.

The Grade-II listed model village was built in the 1930s by the former owner of The New Inn pub.

When it comes to eating and drinking, the village is home to several riverside pubs and restaurants, including the Kingsbridge, which overlooks the River Windrush.

Other spots that make most of the riverside locations are the Green & Pleasant Tearooms and the Bourton Riverside Cafe.

For more on the Cotswolds, here’s one town with old-school sweet shops and riverside games that one Sun Writer loves.

And for more places where you might bump into a celebrity – check out the Cotswolds ‘Golden Triangle’.

I KNEW Efteling theme park had a fairytale garden, but I didn’t realise a stay there would give me such a royal welcome, too.

The lobby of the newly opened Efteling Grand Hotel at this Netherlands attraction feels like its straight out of the classic storybooks my nan used to read me when I was a child.

A sweeping staircase circles an intricate, ­cascading chandelier made from tiny gold keys, candles flicker in the alcove and a 1920s bellhop — a mime-artist in full character — performs a slapstick routine pretending to dust off everyone’s suitcases.

It’s a welcome distraction for the kids, who were itching to bust through the back door and on to the rides. And even as a grown adult, I’m mesmerised.

Efteling first opened in 1952 and its mix of traditional fairground attractions, modern thrill rides and whimsical storytelling now attracts more than five million visitors every year.

Perched dominantly on the edge of the theme park, the Grand Hotel is a a castle-esque chateau that began welcoming guests last summer.

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It’s the first time in Efteling’s ­history that visitors have been able to stay the night within the park gates.

Unlike its other accommodation options — Efteling Wonder Hotel and the holiday villages Bosrijk and Loonsche Land — the Grand Hotel is slightly more premium for those who want some proper R&R — that’s rest and rollercoasters.

It doesn’t feel like a twee theme- park hotel, though.

The arty design was inspired by the park’s history and leans in to the visual style of film director Wes Anderson’s Grand Budapest Hotel.

The 140 plush, modern, yet cosy rooms and suites look more like they belong in a stylish boutique hotel, although there are subtle nods to a princess theme.

Delicate vintage-style decor has been paired with ice-blue walls and brushed gold fittings. Elsewhere, there’s a great swimming pool, spa facilities and two fantastic restaurants.

Guests are also given unlimited, free access to the theme park throughout their stay, including on arrival and departure days and free private parking.

For those who don’t fancy driving, it’s incredibly easy to travel by train.
Eurostar operates direct services from London to Amsterdam, then it’s an easy change on to a local train that will have you at Efteling in less than an hour.

After a very early start, the fluffy linens in my room could have easily tempted me to have a duvet day, but the views of the park from my window were too much to resist.

Within minutes, I was out of the door and approaching my first ride of the day — the quirky and family- friendly Symbolica.

Revered as one of the best attractions at the park, it’s an absolute must-do.

The immersive experience sees visitors sit in floating cars on a modern, magnetic track, journeying through a Gothic palace that features some curious inhabitants.

It’s packed with optical illusions and special effects, perfectly pairing Efteling’s reputation for storytelling with enough excitement to appease the TikTok generation.

There’s plenty for adrenaline junkies too, and for children of all ages.

If you’re travelling with kids, keep your eyes peeled for Hooghmoed.

Set to open on May 1, it features three drop towers and is aimed at younger guests who don’t yet want to take on the white-knuckle rides.

And if you’re not a fan of rides full stop, there’s plenty more to enjoy at Efteling.

The theme park is set around stunning gardens and enchanting woodland, which is used to full effect to play out the fairytale theme.

Granted, parents don’t tend to leave a theme park feeling well rested, but somehow the Efteling Grand Hotel changes that.

The atmosphere feels serene, despite being literally next-door to six roaring rollercoasters and a donkey that poops gold coins (one of the park’s quirkier attractions).

At the end of each tiring day, I was made to feel like a sleeping beauty snuggled in that ridiculously comfy bed.

Although having endured upside-down loops, sudden drops and water rides, I’m not convinced I looked like one.

There’s a charming pub that even people who live an hour away don’t know about – but it’s a brilliant place to have a pint on a Friday night

There’s nothing that says ‘quintessentially British’ quite like a pub. Whether we’re talking big name chains or beautiful low-beamed watering holes with roaring fireplaces, you’d struggle to find a Brit who doesn’t have a favourite local.

One pub that’s definitely stood the test of time is The Puffin. Tucked away on Osea Island, just off the coast in Essex, this quirky pub is only open on Friday nights – and there aren’t any official last orders.

Osea Island gets cut off from the mainland for about 20 hours every day, has almost no shops, and only a handful of residents. Still, even the most isolated of destinations needs a good pub, and The Puffin provides.

This beautiful 300-year-old building is located in the island’s main village, a stone’s throw from plenty of holiday homes. Naturally, I had to check it out when I headed to Osea for a weekend. The Puffin is packed with charm; think authentic low beamed ceilings and an Inglenook fireplace that completely oozes character.

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Just a word of caution; the pub’s low ceilings definitely add to the building’s character but they are really, really low. If you’re tall like me, take heed; it’s easy to bump your head when you enter!

Still, I loved the overall decor; the signs and artwork all over the walls of the pub, the pictures of dogs, photos of the island and fun little posters too. There are also gorgeous leather sofas, and piles of old-looking books against the walls. The cosy interior probably wouldn’t fit more than 30 people inside at once, but this adds to its charm in my opinion.

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The bar felt chaotic – but I mean that in the best way possible. Considering the pub is isolated from the mainland most of the time, there was an incredible variety of drinks on offer – and I was particularly impressed by the number of local gins and spirits available. Of course no pub is complete without a decent beer selection, but that’s covered too; there were a fair amount of beers on draught, but the majority are bottled.

I opted for a spiced rum and coke, while other people ordered beers, local gins or soft drinks; again, I was really surprised at the wide range of spirit and mixer options available in such a tiny pub.

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Another nice touch was that there were bowls of peanuts and crisps available for customers for the entirety of my visit. Overall, it really felt like I’d been transported back in time to a medieval cosy pub with all the benefits of modern comforts, food and drink.

I also had the pleasure of having a chat with Calvin, who runs the pub, and was more than willing to share various stories from the island and its famous visitors. Calvin has been running the pub for about three years; he lives on Osea for five days a week, then stays at home in Heybridge for the other two.

His favourite thing about the job? Being able to chat to everyone who comes in, be that locals, tourists or even massive celebs. Jude Law, Stormzy, Aaron Taylor Johnson, Sean Paul, KSI and the Sidemen and even Example are just some of the famous faces who’ve reportedly visited the pub – and apparently at one point I was stood in the same spot where Martin Freeman had enjoyed a pint. Given that Osea is owned by music producer Nigel Frieda, it’s not surprising that it’s a haven for the A-list.

What’s particularly notable about The Puffin is its irregular opening times; it’s open every Friday and some bank holidays, but other than that, it’s only open on request for events. Calvin added there isn’t really a closing time either; it just shuts once the last punter leaves.

Ultimately, it turned out to be one of the best pubs I’ve visited; not because of the food and drink, but because of the overall atmosphere.

There were groups of people chatting on sofas, people drinking pints next to the bar and laughing with Calvin, and the whole place has an old-timey vibe, with the fireplace adding that extra touch of cosiness. If I make another trip to Osea, it’ll definitely be on a Friday at opening time!

You can find out more on oseaisland.co.uk and selfcatering.co.uk

One man who knows the ins and outs of finding the ideal hotel is travel expert Mark Wolters, who outlined how you can spot top quality accommodation in 60 seconds

A seasoned traveller who has visited more than 80 countries has revealed how you can identify a quality hotel in just 60 seconds. As we’re all aware, a decent hotel can determine whether a holiday succeeds or fails; be it the standards of cleanliness, the facilities, the swimming pool, or any other factor, having a solid place to retreat to after an exhausting day helps you properly relax.

Not every hotel measures up – the web is awash with stories of dreadful experiences, ranging from the merely disappointing to the absolutely horrendous. So, as we begin mapping out our spring and summer escapes, any guidance on securing a good one will surely prove invaluable.

One person who knows the tricks of finding an ideal hotel is Mark Wolters, the instantly familiar face behind the Wolters World YouTube channel, which boasts 1.17 million subscribers.

As an experienced world traveller, Mark has journeyed everywhere from Uruguay to Albania. Now he’s revealing his top hotel tips to help others steer clear of a disastrous booking.

Check the most recent reviews

His first suggestion was examining online reviews of the accommodation. Importantly, you should focus on the latest reviews, since a hotel that enjoyed five-star status a decade ago might have deteriorated – or improved considerably.

Mark explained: “Are they still getting that nine out of 10 or eight out of 10? Or have they fallen to a six or a seven? Because you want to look for that consistency.

“Because if they’re consistently getting nines and tens today and five years ago, that shows that that hotel continuously cares about their guests and their hotel, which means boom, probably going to be a good hotel.”

Actually read the reviews

Mark advised people to scrutinise the reviews and look out for specific keywords and phrases, such as “clean”, “safe”, “comfortable, “, “good location” or “attentive staff”, for example.

He added that you should, for the same reason as above, remember to sort these reviews by date and check whether the hotel has responded to guests online, paying close attention to whether their replies were courteous and professional.

Check that the price makes sense

Mark said: “I know we all want to find that great hotel for a super low price, but a lot of times, (if) they have to have heavy discounts, it’s for a reason.

“So, what you want to see is if you’re looking in an area like here in Lille, you’ll see that, oh, similar hotels have similar prices, and does that hotel fit in that same similar price range. That makes sense.

“I mean, they can have a deal every so often, but a good hotel doesn’t have to have a deal because they’re a good hotel.”

Check photos posted by guests

Mark highlighted the importance of not only looking at the photos posted by the hotel, which could be old, but also at those shared by guests online. Check if these line up with the originals.

Cancellation policy

He went on to advise that you should review your hotel’s cancellation policy because good hotels “know that life happens”, and that our plans can change. Mark noted that desirable hotels “don’t punish guests”.

Location, location, location

It’s well worth pinpointing the exact location of the hotel on a map to establish whether it’s within easy reach of local amenities or attractions. Crucially, Mark also highlighted that you can check whether the hotel is situated in a safe neighbourhood.

Check the description

Mark said: “Is it a realistic description of the hotel, of the rooms, or is it something like a ‘tranquil oasis away from the problems of your life in the outskirts of the world?'”

If it’s packed with “marketing jargon”, as Mark puts it, he suggested you should avoid it, adding that good hotels will be “realistic”.

Trust your gut

Finally, Mark said that when you check out hotels online, much of the time, you will get a “gut feeling” and advised people to trust it.

As soon as I heard about this place, I was desperate to see it.

As soon as I heard about Wisley’s tulips, I was desperate to see them. The family attraction is renowned for being a pretty spot but its spring display this year has to be among its best so far. More than 100,000 tulips have been planted at RHS Garden Wisley, just outside Woking, and they are looking their best right now.

Flowering through April, the new displays have transformed one of the attraction’s most iconic views, the historic Old Laboratory building and Jellicoe Canal.

As I entered the garden and walked through its cherry blossom avenue (also sensational by the way), I turned left to find a sea of vibrant colour. Vivid red, deep orange, bright yellow and royal purple blooms lined the strip of still water, and it was absolutely stunning.

With the sun bouncing off the stream and the glorious blue skies sitting above the striking Old Laboratory, it really looked like an idyllic postcard setting.

Celebrating the joyous spring beauty of tulips, the vibrant mass plantings and pot displays across the grounds feature 58 gorgeous different tulip cultivars combined in mesmerising colour effects.

As I walked through the gardens I spotted thousands more tulips, specifically chosen for their bold colours, fabulous shapes and staggered flowering times.

The Royal Horticultural Society was given Wisley in 1903, although at that time only a small part of the 60-acre estate was cultivated as a garden, the remainder being wooded farmland. The original garden was the creation of George Fergusson Wilson, a businessman, scientist, inventor and keen gardener. He had purchased the site in 1878 with the idea of making “difficult plants grow successfully” and the garden acquired a reputation for its collections of lilies, gentians, Japanese irises, primulas and water plants.

Eating and drinking at Wisley

While Wisley does have some lovely cafes and coffee shops dotted along its tulip route, I decided to bring a picnic with me as the sun was shining.

There are lots of places to unpack your lunch. The lawns were still a bit damp for rolling out a blanket when I went, so I tucked into my alfresco sandwich at one of the tables on the patio outside the food hall.

Other places to eat include the World Food Cafe, Glasshouse Kitchen, Wisley Cafe and Terrace Restaurant, all serving different menus , from hearty breakfasts to pizzas.

“WHAT will we be cooking today?” I asked.

“Any Moroccan dish you’d like,” my host, Mohamed, grinned.

My eyes lit up, growing larger than my stomach. I was in his family home and we had just returned from the souks of Fes to buy fresh ingredients for our feast.

I had watched Mohamed expertly barter down the price of meats, olives and grains. The sights and smells of the markets were as lively as you’d expect.

Street cats gathered under the butcher’s stall, gazing up longingly for a spare scrap of meat.

Flatbreads were slid into wood-fired ovens with the warm waft of freshly-made dough.

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Behind the vegetable stand, a Premier League match played on a fuzzy old TV, the grocer keeping one eye on the game and one on the giant tomatoes he was weighing.

Back in their kitchen, Mohamed and his wife Jessica worked all six hobs in a perfectly-coordinated dance, darting between pots and pans to stir and toss in spices.

The couple host home cooking classes via the experiences site GetYourGuide, and you’d struggle to find a more authentic Moroccan experience for £34.

I chopped vegetables for a tagine, occasionally ditching the dicing to dance along to traditional music in an impromptu kitchen disco.

By the time dinner was served, we’d gone from strangers to friends.

This was just one of three local expert-led experiences I undertook in Fes, known as the cultural capital of Morocco. The city, which was previously the country’s actual capital, is a history-lover’s dream.

It’s home to the largest and oldest medina in the world, which is a maze to explore, with 9,000 narrow streets jam-packed with people.

So I was thankful to have an expert to show me around on a walking tour for my second excursion.

Local guide Fatah made sure to stop by all of the city’s key landmarks. We began at the Royal Palace gates, where seven grand, golden doors stood framed by intricate green and blue mosaics.

Next was the Mellah, or Jewish Quarter. Here, wooden balconies jut out over sun-dappled streets, housing the best handmade jewellery and metalcraft in town.

When it comes to exploring the ancient medina, the entrance alone is enough to take your breath away.

The grand Bab Boujloud gate welcomes you with its striking cobalt blue archway, a colour reflecting the famous pottery produced in Fes.

The medina is a wonderful whirlwind for the senses.

Inside its fortified walls, you’ll find donkeys transporting goods, as well as souks stocked with silks and spices.

And that freshly-baked bread scent follows you around the city, with 350 communal ovens marking each neighbourhood.

Fatah guided us to Mnebhi Palace, where an ordinary-looking brown door opens up to a lavish interior. Vivid geometric patterns jump out from the walls and a marble fountain at its centre is filled to the brim with rose petals.

I thought I recognised the bright pink patterned sofa sitting in the corner — it turns out Madonna had posted it on her Instagram a few months prior.

Next was the University of al-Qarawiyyin, the oldest higher education institution in the world. This beautiful building used to be a mosque and was founded in the 9th century.

We rounded up the walking tour with a visit to the Chouara Tannery, where leather goods have been hand-crafted for more than 1,000 years.

I was confused to be handed a sprig of fresh mint at the entrance, but the reason why soon became apparent — plenty of pigeon droppings are used in the leather tanning process!

Clutching the leaves to my nose, we head up to a viewing platform.

Here, you can look out over pools of vivid red, blue and purple dye, watching workers dip and soften the leather hides.

This view marked the end of the walking tour and I couldn’t believe the amount of value packed into an expert-led experience, which you can book from just £10.

My last activity was a hands-on pottery and mosaics workshop, starting with a tour of the studio to see the masters at work.

These artists are true professionals, constructing massive designs entirely from memory — no tracing or templates required. Then came my turn to hit the pottery wheel.

I had oodles of fun smoothing the clay into weird and wacky shapes, though I instantly knew that my work wouldn’t be sitting on their shelves any time soon.

But the endless supply of Moroccan mint tea and syrupy treats really sweetened the deal.

And at £35 with a handmade souvenir to take home, who can complain . . . 

NEW Delhi doesn’t ease you in. Noise and colour come at you from every direction, and it both rewards your curiosity and leaves you exhausted.

One moment you’re weaving through packed markets in a rickshaw, the next you’re sitting in quiet contemplation at the Lotus Temple, which is shaped like an open petal.

Entry is free (Bahaihouseofworship.in).

I also find calm at Crowne Plaza New Delhi Okhla in the south of the city.

Modern design is peppered with subtle Indian touches, and rooms are opulent with light streaming through large windows and bathrooms with big tubs and separate rain showers.

Plus, there’s a rooftop pool, where I take a refreshing dip before tucking into wok-tossed vegetable hakka noodles, £6.50, at the Edesia restaurant.

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The fort that counts

Come morning, after feasting at the breakfast buffet on an incredible dosa with coconut curd and mouth-watering medu vada (a crunchy, lentil doughnut), a rickshaw ride through the narrow streets of Old Delhi’s Chandni Chowk proves not for the faint-hearted, but essential for soaking up the culture.

I pass street performers walking tightropes, while food vendors fry pakora and kachori at astonishing speed.

Wandering through Khari Baoli, a market dating back to the 17th century, I’m hit by clouds of fragrant spices, before I visit the Red Fort, a magnificent structure built from deep-red sandstone that served as the residence of Mughal emperors for almost 200 years.

Entry costs £4.80 (Asi.nic.in/pages/worldheritageredfort).

The next day, I explore the newer district of the city. Standing proud at the heart of the capital is India Gate, built in 1931 as a memorial to fallen soldiers.

A 10-minute taxi away is the free National Gandhi Museum, which is full of photographs, letters and personal items from Gandhi’s life (Gandhimuseum.org/museum).

And I find I need three hours at the Swaminarayan Akshardham temple, to wander the gardens and explore the exhibitions, which cost just £2.50.

The landmark also comes alive lit up at night with a spectacular fountain show, tickets cost 90p (Akshardham.com).

Chai and stop me!

Hauz Khas Village offers a different rhythm and is a brilliant labyrinth of shops, bars and cafes.

I find Chumbak, an adorable homeware shop filled with playful glassware, notebooks and ornamental plates (Chumbak.com), before unwinding with a masala chai at The Tea Room From Blossom Kochhar (Facebook/Thetearoomhkv).

After a stroll around the calm of Deer Park, home to monkeys, peacocks and a handful of spotted deer, I catch the sunset from the terrace at Hauz Khas Social.

Here, delicious momos – vegetable dumplings coated in rich masala sauce, £3 – pair perfectly with a glass of crisp chardonnay, £6.10 (Socialoffline.in).

Another evening, I head to Karol Bagh market, home to Hooter Restro & Bar, which offers superb paneer curry with buttered naan, £6 (@Hooter_restrobar), before watching live musicians performing on the buzzy rooftop at Epic Restro Bar (@Epicrestrobar).

India is also the birthplace of yoga, so before I set off to explore this intoxicating country further, I decide to join an early-morning class at Seema Sondhi, £10 (Theyogastudio.info).

It proves to be the perfect moment to reflect on an exhilarating and unforgettable city break.

JUST off the Algarve coast, near Faro, is the Ilha Deserta.

This literally means “deserted island”, but there was no going hungry when I hopped on a boat to this unique spot.

Call me Jill Robinson Crusoe, if you will.

Alongside seven kilometres of gorgeous white sand, the island is home to just one building – the fish restaurant Estamine.

And every dish on the menu is worth the trip alone.

My delicate, buttery, grilled sea bass was cooked to perfection and served with roasted potatoes and vegetables.

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The choice is dizzying, with everything from giant carabinero prawns and Atlantic lobster to crispy sand shrimps and Grandma’s squid stew.

Reached by boat taxi in around 15 minutes, the restaurant has stunning views of the Atlantic from its floor-to-ceiling windows.

Afterwards, you can sunbathe beside the crystal-clear waters, or take a peaceful stroll while trying to spot the rare birds and chameleons that frequent the island.

If, however, you prefer something a little more fancy, you can enjoy a catamaran trip around the Ilha Deserta, which is part of the Ria Formosa Natural Park — a coastal lagoon stretching 60km from Faro to Manta Rota.

I sailed with a local company called iSea and have to admit, sitting on deck with a glass of prosecco and the sun on my face was a highlight of my trip.

But if you don’t have the sea legs for a boat trip, the Algarve has plenty for you to enjoy on dry land.

Faro itself has a marina and historic old town with cobbled streets.

And here, you can delve into fabulous Portuguese cuisine at Tertulia Algarvia, which is set in an historic whitewashed building.

Alongside cooking classes, craft workshops and cooking demonstrations, it serves up some real classics.

There’s still plenty of seafood, from octopus rice to grilled golden bream, but a standout on the menu was the chicken piri-piri.

This original grilled chicken dish comes with a spicier marinade than your local Nando’s as well as a huge portion of crispy chips, all for just £12.60.

Meat dishes are as big a deal as seafood and fish across much of the region, and I was always spoilt for choice when it came to getting my daily fix of protein.

One of my favourite places was in Aldeia da Pedralva — a rural village which has been lovingly rebuilt after many of the buildings were left in ruins.

Now, most of the village buildings are available as accommodation to hire, but the main restaurant, Sitio da Pedralva, is a destination in itself thanks to its incredible farm-to-table offerings.

From succulent wild boar to melt-in-your-mouth pork cheeks, it was a true meat lover’s paradise.

As well as the meat dishes, the chef also serves another classic dish from the region, bacalhau no pao — creamy cod served in a rustic, hollowed-out crusty-bread bowl. Delicious.

After all that food, I needed a walk and, thankfully, a short drive away was a stunning coastal route which makes up part of the Fisherman’s Trail.

Covering 226km from Sao Torpes (near Sines) to Lagos, it is considered one of the best coastal paths in the world.

Along the way, it offers views of dramatic, rugged cliffs that drop off into incredible turquoise waters, and waves that keen surfers seek to ride.

If you want to see the sights but don’t fancy a hike or walk, a Jeep tour is another fun option — and I did a morning trip with Sagres Discovery.

Our charismatic driver took us off-roading to the western Algarve, including Sagres and Cape St Vincent Lighthouse — one of the most powerful in Europe.

All the adventure, food and sea air can certainly make you feel sleepy and, thankfully, I had the perfect place to stay a little further along the coast.

Praia Do Canal Nature Retreat is a five-star hotel set in the heart of the Vicentine Coast, offering tranquillity and relaxation, not to mention incredible decor and attention to detail.

With an infinity pool, yoga classes and exceptional food in its restaurant, it’s perfect if you want to reconnect with nature — and yourself.

The huge rooms also offer a shower that is bigger than my entire bathroom at home, massive beds and views across the rolling hills to the Atlantic Ocean.

But if you want to stay closer to the action and not somewhere as remote as Praia Do Canal Nature Retreat, Faro is a great place to base yourself.

I finished my stay in the region with a couple of nights at 3*B Faro, the only five-star hotel in the downtown area of the city, and just a short walk from the old town and marina.

With a rooftop infinity pool and terrace, as well as indoor spa facilities, the hotel offers some quiet calm once you’ve finished a day of exploring the region.

The Algarve is also a top destination for wine lovers, and a trip to a local vineyard is a must for any itinerary.

I enjoyed a lovely lunch and afternoon at Morgado do Quintão — a family-owned vineyard that also offers a farm-stay experience if you want to linger a little longer.

The estate offers guests a farm-to-table experience with a wine flight from its collection, which has revived the indigenous Negra Mole grape.

It is known for having an unusual variation of grape colour within the same bunch.

I had the chance to try a white, rose and red during my visit, all while enjoying fine views of the vineyard and the imposing 2,000-year-old olive tree which sits in the grounds.

I left the Algarve with a totally different perspective.

From deserted islands to delicious dishes, I’d encourage anyone to go and enjoy every tasty morsel of it for themselves.

TAMWORTH may not be top of many tourists’ to-do lists, but it boasts the best boozer, a kids-go-free castle and even a chance to ski on real snow, all within staggering distance of each other. 

I’m lucky that this Midlands marvel is only half an hour from me, so I headed over to check out all the things that make the town a perfect day trip destination this year.

It’s been ages since I last visited Tamworth Castle, a landmark feature in the centre of town, still standing tall on its original motte.

It’s just announced that it’s the latest visitor attraction to join the Blue Peter scheme, which means that kids who’ve earned a badge from the beloved TV show can get in free.

We were absolutely amazed by all the different eras of history showcased at the castle, a fascinating snapshot of its own journey through time.

What I really loved though was the recreated Saxon mead hall with fount-of-knowledge volunteer guide Ralph on hand to bring history to life and chat to us about the Staffordshire Hoard, a huge stash of Saxon riches discovered by a metal detectorist on a farmer’s field in 2009.

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The hoard was split between three Midlands museums and Tamworth makes the most of the sparkling specimens it received in its Battle and Tribute exhibition.

We love a castle and have visited many of the biggest and best, like Warwick and Windsor, but Tamworth gives them a run for their money in terms of immersive experiences for children and offering up history in easy-to-understand bite-size chunks. 

One thing that Tamworth really has going for it is the greenery of the Castle Grounds right in its centre.

This open-to-all public space has a fab castle-themed playground, a skate park, tennis courts and a cafe.

It is bordered by indoor attractions like Namco Funscape, which includes bowling, softplay and adventure golf, and the SnowDome, where visitors can ski, skate, climb and swim.

My boys love taking to the slopes and a firm family favourite here is the snow fun park, where you can play in the white stuff all year round.

The pool offers flumes and floats sessions for families.

If you have a Blue Light Card, you can often get money off and it’s always worth checking out the deals section of the SnowDome website, as you can bag a bargain at quieter times of the year.

We rounded up our visit with a trip to the Tamworth Tap, which has just been named pub of the year by the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) for the third time.

It’s the first pub to win this award three times, so it was no surprise to find it already bustling with barely a table to spare within half an hour of its opening on a Friday afternoon.

You won’t be able to bring the kids in here, as it’s over-18s only, but if you’re visiting with older kids who are happy to enjoy the skate park, which is only a two-minute walk away, you can sneak in for a cheeky pint and a portion of £4 frickles – pickles fried in breadcrumbs. 

If you’re here in the warmer months, the pub’s beer garden certainly has one of the best views in the town, overlooked by its castle neighbour.

April is a great time to visit the town, with a dragon egg hunt around the castle over the school holidays and then a free medieval festival to mark St George’s Day in the park on April 18, with jousting, archery, games and fairground rides.

Just outside Tamworth, there’s plenty of family-friendly visitor attractions a short drive away where you can easily while away a day if you’re making a weekend of it. 

My top picks would be Twycross Zoo (20-minute drive), Statfold Country Park (10 minutes) and Drayton Manor (7 minutes).

As well as visiting the animals, Twycross also has the Gruffalo Discovery Land, which is great for little ones, while both Drayton Manor and Statfold are perfect for train fans and anyone who loves fairground and theme park rides.

Drayton, which hosts Thomas Land, has just celebrated its 75th anniversary by installing a lake lights show, while Statfold recently opened the National Fairground Museum, so visitors can now enjoy vintage fairground rides as well as steam and diesel trains.

With a hoard of hidden gems of its own, this Staffordshire treasure has a wealth of wonders just waiting to be discovered.

The island town is known for its vibrant town centre, long history and stunning waterside setting nestled between the two sides of a glistening freshwater lake

“It’s a heavenly place to live,” says Barry Flanagan as we bob along on the sparkling water.

Barry is a water taxi tour guide in Enskillen, where he spends his days enthusing about the town. He combines his unique talent for talking, honed during ten years on local radio, with boating skills learned on the waterways of his hometown.

“Enniskillen is Ireland’s only island town. It is completely surrounded by water. We’re so lucky we live here,” he adds in a borderlands brogue.

If you’re from the centre of Ireland, then you’ll have heard of the town of 14,000. Enniskillen is known for its vibrant town centre, long history and stunning waterside setting nestled between Upper and Lower Lough Erne in County Fermanagh.

Yet despite all these winning features, Enniskillen is little enough known that it was recently voted Ireland’s most underrated town.

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And, as I discovered, underrated it certainly is.

The first place to start when discovering its delights is on the water. Lough Erne is the third largest freshwater lake in the UK and stretches across the south-western border. There is a brightness and cleanliness about the place. Flooded drumlin landscape stretches away from the loch past reedswamps, islets, and devilish-looking cormorants drying their wings in the sunshine.

With the water taxis chugging by, it’s easy to mistake its waterways for rural Netherlands or the Croatian delta of Vid. At least, in the brief moments when sleet showers are replaced by sunshine.

It’s also got a lot of history.

A short boat ride out of town takes you to Devenish Island. “There are 254 islands on Lough Erne, and Devenish Island is the jewel. It is a 6th-century monastic sight,” Barry explains.

Henry VIII’s dissolution of the monasteries cleared Devenish of its once bustling 1,000-person population, but the remains of the buildings have stayed, including a perfectly preserved tower.

Rising up on a nearby hill is the imposing Enneskillen Royal Grammar School, where Oscar Wilde and Samuel Beckett were pupils at a similar time as two truanting young lads who managed to blow up the nearby 1613 Portora Castle using explosive skills honed in the chemistry lab.

Made of sturdier stuff is the 600-year-old Enskillen Castle. Guarding one of the few passes into Ulster, it has remained strategically important since the charmingly named Hugh the Hospitable swung open its drawbridge.

The British took it over in the 17th century, turning it into a plantation stronghold for English and Scottish settler ‘undertakers’ tasked with controlling confiscated Gaelic land.

Despite such dicey moves, it remains remarkably intact today and serves as an enjoyable low-key museum.

“Fermanagh is a small county, but it packs a huge punch,” Barry enthuses as our tour comes to a close with a quick sail past Erne Water Taxi’s newest vessel, a completely solar-powered party boat.

“Would you believe in Fermanagh we have 14 plantation castles, three National Trust properties, a geopark that runs across the border, the Stairway to Heaven, and the Marble Arch Caves. It’s a heavenly place to live and we’re so lucky we live here.”

Any local who has spent an evening in Blakes of the Hollow will certainly agree. The Victorian pub is one of the most famous in Ireland and was packed to the rafters when I visited. The vibe inside is excellent and oiled by £5 pints of Guinness and live music on the weekends.

Wander several flights down from the pub, and you’ll get to 28 at the Hollow, an award-winning restaurant run by husband and wife team, Glen Wheeler and Zara McHugh. The food and service is as exceptional as I had expected, given no fewer than three people at my hotel had suggested I check it out.

The hotel in question is the Lough Erne Resort, a curious place that’s part 5* hotel, part timeshare estate made up of crenelated mansions that run along the lakefront. OAP bellboys greet you at the door as you walk into the grand foyer, where wood fires crackle in the grates. The rooms are enormous and comfortable, designed as they are for golfers to relax after a hard day’s thwacking on the 36-hole course.

Once you’re up and at them the next day, a coffee and a croissant at FOLK will fuel you up enough for a proper rummage at Lougherne Vintage.

Sitting in the quaint Butter Market part of town, the shop is packed full of goodies plundered by Katie Murphy and her husband from bootfairs across Europe. Unlike most vintage shop proprietors, Katie does not get her goods from eBay and Vintage, instead putting in the hard yards early on Sunday mornings. The result is a shop brimming with genuine treasures, including a Vivienne Westwood dress for a very reasonable price.

Like Enniskillen as a whole, drop by and you’re sure to unearth a hidden gem or two.

Book it

Rooms at Lough Erne Resort cost from £131.

Inneskillen is a two-hour bus ride from Belfast, costing £36.

Hull — once crowned Britain’s biggest dump in the book Crap Towns — is suddenly being talked about as one of the world’s hottest holiday spots.

National Geographic has stuck the northern port city on its list of top 20 global places to visit in 2026, right up there with Manila, Beijing and even Route 66.

So, on a soggy halfterm, I grabbed my eleven-year-old son and headed north for 48 hours to see whether Hull’s new swagger stacks up — or whether the UK’s former “snoring capital” is still a total snooze.

It might look out on a limb on the map, but Hull’s a breeze to reach — direct trains from London take just two and a half hours. And once you’re there, it’s all ridiculously walkable, with every major sight just a short stroll away.

We checked into the Hideout Hotel, a slick set of self-catered apartments in the city centre, then dashed across the road to the mighty Hull Minster.

The 13th century church — and the cobbled Old Town around it — somehow survived the Blitz while 95 per cent of Hull’s homes were flattened.

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Locals say Luftwaffe pilots used the Minster’s spire as a handy marker as they crossed the North Sea – so didn’t destroy it.

Hull’s Old Town is a proper gem: narrow lanes and alleyways filled with cosy pubs like WM Hawkes, The Lion & Key and The Sailmakers Arms, and The George Hotel — the city’s oldest boozer — which proudly shows off England’s smallest window. Well worth looking into.

While grownups can tackle the famous Ale Trail, we went for the family-friendly Fish Trail — a quirky hunt for 41 bits of fish art hidden around the city. It’s free, fun and worth doing… just for the halibut.

For the real thing, we headed to “The Deep”.

Hull’s futuristic aquarium sits on the estuary and houses more than 5,000 sea creatures, underwater tunnels, a glass lift shooting up through a giant ocean tank, rays, turtles, jellyfish and sawfish that look like hedge trimmers with fins — plus a colony of adorable Gentoo penguins.

It’s immersive, educational and perfect for a rainy day.

A five-minute wander takes you to the Fruit Market, once a derelict warehouse district and now a buzzing hub of indie shops, bars and cool cafés.

We tucked into topnotch tapas at Ambiente — prawns and anchovies included, despite having just admired their cousins at The Deep — washed down with a crisp, bone-dry sherry.

Next morning we returned for a hearty breakfast at Thieving Harry’s, a hipster hangout with great coffee, brunch and the odd DJ night.

Then it was on to the Museum Quarter — three brilliant, totally free museums in one neat cluster.

The Hull and East Riding Museum whisks you through 235 million years of history, complete with a lifesize woolly mammoth.

The Streetlife Museum dives into Hull’s transport past with vintage trams, retro arcades and a wartime high street.

Both are cracking fun.

Then came Wilberforce House, birthplace of Hull’s most famous son, William Wilberforce — the MP who led the charge to abolish slavery.

The museum tackles the transatlantic slave trade, the fight to end it and its legacy today.

It’s incredibly powerful, thoughtful and handled with real care — not just
suitable for kids, but essential.

Culture continued at the Ferens Art Gallery, one of Britain’s top regional galleries, before some light relief at Dinsdales Joke Shop — a gloriously chaotic treasure trove of whoopee cushions, itching powder and fake poo.

It’s been going since the 1930s, making it the oldest joke shop in the country.

“People in Hull are a unique bunch,” owner Angela Dinsdale told us.

“There’s loads of culture and history — it’s quirky, friendly and there’s plenty for tourists to do.”

And there’s more coming.

A £70m Maritime Project is about to drop anchor: the docks have been revamped, the Maritime Museum reopens later this year, and both the Arctic Corsair trawler — “Hull’s Cutty Sark” — and the Spurn Lightship have been restored to their former glory.

And Hull’s star power doesn’t stop at penguins, ports and pubs.

The city can now brag about producing one of Britain’s hottest acting talents — Robert Aramayo, who is Hull born-and-bred and enrolled at Hull’s Truck Youth Theatre at the age of 11.

The local lad stunned Hollywood this year by beating Leonardo DiCaprio, Timothée Chalamet and Michael B. Jordan to scoop Best Actor at this year’s BAFTAs.

Nearly a decade after being crowned UK City of Culture, there’s never been a better time to go to Hull and back.

DAUBED on an ancient wall, the curt sentence “All tourists are bastards” isn’t exactly welcoming – but it sums up a growing problem with tourists in one of the world’s most beautiful cities.

In summer, it can be hard to move on Venice’s most popular streets, but visit in low season and discover quiet backwaters where life is much slower — and cheaper — and overall a much more pleasant experience.

My tour guide, Guiliano from Devour Tours, tells me: “Even the fish market, where I shopped with my mother as a child, is only open for traditional reasons these days and, of course, for tourists.”

Venice, some 1,605 years old, has long been one of Italy’s most visited and famous cities. Once known as the home of merchants, its business today is tourism — whether the locals like it or not.

It’s fair to say many of them don’t. Locals are particularly against short-term rentals, saying they have ­hollowed out neighbourhoods, pushing residents out.

Authorities have listened, responding with cruise ship bans, crowd controls and, most infamously, entry fees.

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The €5 fee — which rises to €10 for tourists who book fewer than four days in advance — typically only applies to weekends from April to July, so you won’t be charged on most weekdays.

But other residents understand that Venice needs tourism to survive.

Valentina, the manager at the historic Hilton Molino Stucky hotel’s rooftop Skyline Bar, is among that number.

As I sip on my Rising Tempest cocktail — a Venetian take on a Long Island Ice Tea — and nibble on focaccia, Valentina explains that while tourists can be “a little irritating in high season”, she appreciates they are now part of the city’s make-up.

At the bar — located in a former flour mill on pretty Giudecca island and with stunning views of the main city — she tells me: “Overall we love tourists and we do need them.”

The welcome at my hotel, the beautiful Maison ­Venezia, is warm and as impressive as its location.

In the Cannaregio district, the four-star resort has Murano glass chandeliers and decor featuring traditional Venetian decorative motifs. Just a short stroll to the iconic Rialto Bridge, it is incredibly peaceful.

My room was so quiet, with a balcony overlooking a small canal, it was almost impossible to believe I was in a city, let alone one of the most touristy in Europe.

Even out of season, it’s easy to see Venice’s draw.

It has no roads, just canals, gondolas and crumbling palaces rising straight out of the water. There’s hundreds of years of history, maze-like alleys and sunsets that light the whole lagoon — home to more than 100 islands — on fire.

People have been coming here for years for the romance, the cicchetti — the Venetian alternative to tapas — and a unique feeling of drifting through a city that has not really changed for centuries. Even in low season, tourist must-sees like St Mark’s Square, the Doge’s Palace and the Grand Canal are busy.

However, head just a few streets back and Venice is a totally different experience, even in high summer.

During my tour, we stop off in Campo Santi Giovanni e Paolo, one of the city’s most beautiful squares.

Surprisingly, it’s very quiet, with just a few tour groups and locals milling about.

When I ask Guiliano for the ­reason, he says the square is a contradiction unique to Venice.

“It’s in the city centre, but off the beaten track — and it’s pretty much hidden even in the summer,” he says.

“In London, tourists go back and forth exclusively between Piccadilly and Leicester Square for their entire trip, and avoid places like Shoreditch. It’s the same here.”

While cafes in St Mark’s Square are notoriously pricey — think £12 for a cappuccino — more rustic spots off the main drag sell glasses of delicious Italian wine for about £3.50, cicchetti for £1.30 and pizzas from £7.

Venice in high season might lose a little of its magic, but overtourism is easier to dodge if you pick your moment.

Visit off-season and you’ll find a calmer, more authentic side. Crowds or not, though, there’s nowhere quite like it — and that’s why people keep coming back.

This handy map tool allows you to calculate the percentage of the world you’ve seen by selecting all the countries you’ve visited.

Ever wondered how much of the world you’ve really seen? Use this handy tool to find out. By selecting all the different countries you’ve ever visited, it’ll work out a percentage of the world you’ve managed to explore and how many continents you’ve covered. It’ll also tell you how your stats compare against other travellers, and will show your footprint on the globe.

A poll of 2,000 travellers revealed 43% enjoy comparing the number of destinations they’ve visited abroad with others. Reasons for mentioning their ‘country count’ include wanting to impress others with their worldliness and sense of adventure, get others to think ‘that’s more than me’ or to see them as someone ‘loaded’ with money.

Of those who mention their country count, more than four in 10 (44%) will casually raise the subject in general holiday chatter, while 38% will jump at the chance to name a nation they’ve visited the second someone else mentions it.

It also emerged 34% of travellers consider their list of countries visited ‘as a bit of a badge of honour’ and a fifth feel ‘quietly superior’ to those who have been to fewer nations.

A spokesperson from travel insurance specialist Staysure, which commissioned the research and tailors policies for people with health conditions, said: “Travelling abroad is exciting and the memories made with friends and family can last forever.

“So, it’s not surprising people love talking about where they’ve been and comparing the number of countries they’ve visited. Sharing experiences is something we all love to do and it’s great to be able to inspire others to visit somewhere new.

One in 10 attempt to sound better travelled than they really are by counting countries they visited as a child in their list. And some go as far as including an airport layover or counting a day trip as a full visit. But four in ten described other people discussing how well-travelled they are as ‘annoying’.

Find out how much of the world you’ve actually seen with this new tool

New Zealand (24%), Japan (23%) and Australia (18%) were at the top of respondents’ wish lists, along with Iceland, Sweden and Switzerland. While Canada was nearly twice as popular as a future destination than the United States (17% versus 8%).

The average traveller has been to seven countries by the time they’re 30 – this number nearly doubles to 15 by the time they reach the age of 60. However, it also emerged 56% of those polled wish they were better travelled.

On average, respondents said their travel peaked at age 34, while 44% admitted their trips abroad have generally decreased as they’ve gotten older.

Four in 10 consider it important that their list of countries visited keeps growing, with those with a set goal aiming to tick off 30 individual countries. To do this, 56% would consider a multi-destination holiday such as a cruise.

Staysure’s spokesperson added: “Our customers often share where they’ve been and where they’re planning to go next.

“It’s good to know people are dreaming big and want to keep ticking off their dream destinations. Although technically correct to do so, would you include a layover in your country list if you’d not set foot outside the airport?

“Wherever people choose to travel, having the right cover and financial protection in place helps them keep ticking countries off their list making the whole experience more enjoyable and worry-free.”

TOP 50 COUNTRIES VISITED

1. France
2. Spain
3. Italy
4. United States
5. Germany
6. Greece
7. Portugal
8. Belgium
9. Netherlands
10. Republic of Ireland
11. Turkey
12. Switzerland
13. Austria
14. Cyprus
15. Canada
16. Denmark
17. Czech Republic
18. Egypt
19. Croatia
20. Australia
21. Sweden
22. Norway
23. Poland
24. Mexico
25. Morocco
26. Thailand
27. Tunisia
28. Singapore
29. Hungary
30. United Arab Emirates
31. Iceland
32. China
33. Finland
34. New Zealand
35. South Africa
36. India
37. Malaysia
38. Japan
39. Kenya
40. Vietnam
41. Indonesia
42. Sri Lanka
43. Brazil
44. South Korea
45. Peru
46. Cambodia
47. Argentina
48. Philippines
49. Chile
50. Tanzania

Mirror writer Julia Banim visited Robin Hood’s Bay, an atmospheric gem on the Yorkshire Coast, and soon learned that the true beauty of this picturesque seaside village is best seen by starlight

Once upon a time, we Brits could look out of our window at night and see cluster upon cluster of sparkling stars. And in some parts of the country, you still can.

I’m lucky enough to spend a twinkling evening at Robin Hood’s Bay, one of the most striking villages of the Yorkshire Coast, with enough atmosphere to rival its more imposing literary sister, Whitby. I arrive on a bright day in early spring, the first daffodils nodding gently by the winding coastal path that leads down to the sea. I feel suddenly swept into a gothic romance novel, which feels very suitable, given this is the year of Wuthering Heights. And while Brontë fever may have drawn coachloads of would-be star-crossed lovers to Howarth, might I suggest this equally evocative Yorkshire beauty spot.

The sunlit waves crash beneath spectacular cliffs, and the sea stretches out endlessly before me. Time seems to stand still here, and it’s easy to imagine pirates of the old ballads making land here, treasure clinking in their chests. But today, all is peace as I make my way through the steep, cobbled streets, where smugglers of stories once made use of secretive, subterranean passages, and ghostly figures supposedly roam.

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My nostrils fill with scents of delicious food, with each street boasting pubs and eateries that appear untouched since the days of clandestine chats over ale and candlelight. But it’s not quite time for sustenance yet, and a night of stargazing awaits. Little do I know then that Robin Hood’s Bay is a gem that glows even brighter in the dark.

I’m staying at the superb Hotel Victoria, which boasts extraordinary views over the cliffs, noted through North Yorkshire and beyond. Beloved by passing sea captains since the Victorian age, the 30-bedroom Hotel Victoria is newly refurbished, but maintains much of its historic character. The rooms in the ‘Captain’s Quarters’ are comfortable and beautifully decorated, and as I enjoy a relaxing soak in the clawfoot tub, I feel very much like an elegant 19th-century lady.

Of course, the rooms are also well appointed for a aspiring-elegant 21st century lady like myself, and I’m positively thrilled to see a Dyson hairdryer on the dressing table, as well as a little bottle of Yorkshire gin. Absolute bliss. Wrapping up warm, I head to meet Mark Dawson, chairman of the Whitby and District Astronomical Society, in the tasteful hotel bar, and his passion for all things stargazing is instantly infectious. He has a deep knowledge of the yearly patterns of the stars, best seen here in the month of August, describing them touchingly as “old friends returning”.

Mark told the Mirror: “We forget that though, literally, people’s lives were ruled by what they saw in the night sky, by where objects rose, when they rose, when they set. You only have to look at Stone Henge, these ancient monuments that were sky clocks, all related to the sky. So their lives were ruled by events that went on in the sky. In Egypt, when they had what we call the helical rise of the Siririus, which is the brightest star in the night sky, that was the first rising before the sun in the dawn sky.

“They knew then that the Nile was shortly going to flood. So their lives would be ruled by when they first saw Sirius in the morning. And we forget that now, in all the modern day, and all that detritus, we’ve lost our connection with the night sky. I think it’s only people who are in really dark areas, rural locations, that maybe still have that. Which is a shame”.

With so many of us experiencing sleep issues, investing in all sorts of modern appliances to get some rest, could it be that our body clocks are rebelling against adjusting to a world where the skies are shut out? And could embracing the dark skies and their cycles, as our ancestors did since time immemorial, be the answer? As someone who struggles to drift off, I’m willing to try.

Mark first became fascinated by all things space as a youngster, watching the moon landings, and there is perhaps no better area in England for a budding stargazer to hone their interest. In December 2020, the North York Moors National Park was designated as an International Dark Sky Reserve, making it one of just 25 locations worldwide recognised for outstanding night-sky quality. In the darkest areas, some 2,000 stars can be seen at any one time – a notion that feels positively alien to a city dweller such as myself.

There have been some steps taken to reduce light pollution in Britain in recent years, with significant improvements to street lighting, including the removal of the old sodium lights with their “terrible” orange glow. But still, those travelling over to the North York Moors from the neighbouring metropolises of Sheffield and Leeds are regularly left speechless during stargazing expeditions. Mark said, “People are quite literally stunned. Over the years, they can’t believe what they’re seeing. And we tend to forget that when you’re sort of living on the doorstep, because it’s fairly easy for us just to drive ten minutes and be able to appreciate that.”

We leave the plush surroundings of Hotel Victoria behind and head out into the darkness for a mini ‘stargazing safari’. It’s a clear night, and Mark feels hopeful we’ll enjoy some splendid views. Sadly, this is an occurrence that has become less frequent in recent times, yet another depressing blow of climate change. In winters gone by, the chance of a clear sky was around 30 per cent, but for the last few years it’s sat around the 12 per cent mark. Mark told me, “I hope it’s not a trend. It’s probably to do with global warming. It seems that because the sea temperature is warmer, which it is, it tends to generate more moisture, which then means more cloud.”

Already, as I look up from the hotel steps, I can see a good quantity of glitter in the blackness, but I am nowhere near prepared for the phenomenal sight that’s about to greet me. We walk a short way off the road, away from the streetlights and into the true darkness. Remembering my glasses in my pocket, which I so often neglect out of vanity, I pop these on and audibly gasp. Side note, please always wear your glasses when out seeking the awe-inspiring.

Without exaggeration, the sky is quite literally filled with stars, many of which give off a sparkle I didn’t think possible. An upturned jewellery box spilled into endless folds of velvet. While still very much firmly on the ground, it almost feels as though we’ve somehow lifted some way up into the spangled heavens, as if I could reach out a finger and nudge a perfectly set constellation out of place. Breathtaking doesn’t quite cover it. It was one of those moments where you’re very much glad to be alive.

Mark points out various constellations using his long torch in an accessible way, and there is not a twinkle in the sky that he doesn’t know intimately. A whole history is written here, from the older stars blazing towards death, to the younger stars with their youthful blue hue, and I never even realised. I never really saw myself as a scientifically inclined person, but here I don’t feel out of my depth. Perhaps it takes such sights to bring the universe and all its enormity home.

I talk Mark’s ear off with questions, and he very politely obliges, but soon it’s time for me to let him carry on with his evening and for me to return to the warmth of Hotel Victoria. It’s only when I step into the foyer that I remember how hungry I am. Luckily, a slap-up dinner awaits, with a hearty steak and chips, followed by an absolutely enormous Eton Mess dessert, soon hushing my stomach grumbles.

The staff couldn’t have been more attentive and friendly, making sure I had a suitably big wine ready to take out with me on the veranda for the final part of my day. And I would wholeheartedly recommend this part. Blanket around my shoulders and torch in hand – both provided by the hotel – I sit, sip and look out at the sky and sea, both so dark, beautiful and mysterious.

It’s undoubtedly a romantic spot, but also equally perfect for being alone with your thoughts and a good audiobook, like this writer. I’m not alone for long, though, with a rather grumpy-looking cat plonking itself on my lap and loafing contentedly. Whether this is part and parcel of the overall experience, I can’t really say, but I certainly enjoy his company, as cross as he looks with mine.

I sleep like a baby, and not just because of the pleasant wine or deep, comfy bed. I think over Mark’s words, how we humans were supposed to live by the stars, to abide by a shared celestial clock. The following morning, after a breakfast of fresh kippers, I head back to my city home, knowing that taking time to see the stars, and see them how they should be seen, is something I want to factor into mt own personal calendar for the rest of my life.

Do you have a story to share? Email me at julia.banim@reachplc.com

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Mark and Judy opted to visit the hotspot off-season and could be seen enjoying a leisurely stroll through the main strip “days before the tourists arrive”, but the destination could face a struggle this summer

Two sun-seeking Brits who visited a holiday hotspot facing a decline in tourism have remarked that they’d “return in an instant”. Mark and Judy were recently blown away by the peaceful, crowd-free scenes greeting them in the eastern Cypriot resort town of Protaras.

Protaras is known for its crystalline waters, breathtaking beaches and booming nightlife, being just a short, 17-minute drive from the premier European party capital of Ayia Napa. Mark and Judy opted to visit the hotspot off-season and could be seen enjoying a leisurely stroll through the main strip “days before the tourists arrive”.

In a recent vlog for their YouTube channel, Gypsy Souls, they kicked off proceedings by mentioning that local businesses were starting to “open up for the season”, with Mark remarking that they were “coming out of hibernation”. Setting off in search of a drink to beat the heat, the pair departed from their location near a fountain and a prominent Protaras sign.

Judy gave viewers a lay of the land, pointing out Easter egg statues and highlighting the nearby Capo Bay Hotel and the route to the stunning Fig Tree beach. As they made their way down the street, Judy noted that the businesses in sight were “quite closed”, but they detected the welcoming aroma of food and heard “tunes thumping”.

Hotel bookings to the country have fallen 40% after the recent conflict in Iran, but the couple said the emptiness they witnessed was simply down to it being off-peak.

Judy went on to explain that their viewers had recommended some bars to them. But, seemingly highlighting a downside to off-season travel, Judy sadly pointed out that some weren’t yet open. Not to be disheartened, though, she noted that some still were, specifically the Greenery.

Once they reached the end of the road, Mark and Judy turned around and headed back, drawing the viewers’ attention to more closed businesses on the other side of the street. Judy said: “We’re hoping that by the time we go, some of these will start to open. So, as we come into the end of our time here, hopefully, they should all start to open, and you’ll be able to see the transformations.”

Mark and Judy eventually found their way to the Greenery, where Mark enjoyed a pint and they shared a kebab and chips. Summing up their off-season experience, they told the Mirror: “We had a wonderful holiday and would return in an instant.” As Cyprus prepares for the looming holiday season, however, reports indicate that many tourists will be avoiding the Mediterranean island this year.

Hotel bookings are reportedly down by 40% as US and Israeli-led military action in Iran continues. As part of the so-called Operation Epic Fury, the two countries launched a bombing campaign against the Middle Eastern nation on February 28, with the conflict still ongoing.

In response, Iran launched widespread retaliatory strikes on its Gulf neighbours and blocked passage through the Strait of Hormuz, a key shipping lane for 20 per cent of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG). Earlier this month, a pro-Iranian militia launched a drone attack on RAF Akrotiri, a British base in Cyprus.

AirDNA figures show that cancellation rates for short-term rentals in Cyprus surged from about 15% before the conflict to as much as 100 per cent in the days after the war began. According to the Daily Mail, about a third of Cyprus’ tourists are British travellers, with four million international visitors travelling to the island in 2025 in total.

Chris Webber, head of holidays and deals at TravelSupermarket, told the outlet: ‘When global events change holiday plans, we tend to see travellers pivot quickly. The Caribbean is a natural beneficiary. What’s striking here isn’t just the overall jump in searches, but how broadly that interest is spread. Destinations like Turks and Caicos and Tobago aren’t typically where British holidaymakers look first, so to see them surging suggests people are still keen to try somewhere new.”

HOT cross buns; sticky, sweet, delicious and a sign that Easter is on its way – but where did the original bun come from?

Ironically, the origins are in my stomping ground of St Albans, so I went to see where it all began – and you can still buy a classic bun now.

In trying times, nothing quite provides comfort like a freshly-baked bun.

That was certainly Brother Thomas Rocliffe’s thinking when he handed
out his humble creation to the poor and disgruntled townspeople of St.
Albans back in 1361, a couple of decades before the Peasant Revolt.

The 14th century monk had just invented a treat that would become a
symbol of Easter for hundreds of years to come: the hot cross bun.

Back then, it was known as the Alban bun.

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The original recipe relied on a traditional bread dough, laced with exotic spices and dried fruit, which was then rolled into balls and scored with a cross symbol ahead of baking.

Today, the buns we see in supermarkets feature a piped cross, not
scored, and they are a little more sweet and cake-like in flavour,
relying primarily on cinnamon for spice.

If you’re keen to sample the traditional version, though, Brother
Thomas’ original recipe is still being baked today within the same
centuries-old walls of St Albans Cathedral, where it was first
concocted.

The ingredients are a secret, of course, but those heading down this
Easter may be lucky enough to uncover them with the help of one of the
cathedral’s expertly knowledgeable guides.

“How much did Rocliffe charge?” my guide asks me. “One a penny? Two a penny?”

The answer is still unknown – but just shy of a fiver seems more apt in these times, I tell him.

These buns weren’t just for Easter in Rocliffe’s era. In fact, in the
mid-1500s they became an emblem of protection and soared in
popularity.

Everyday folk would buy them year round and nail them to
their doors under the belief that it would stop their houses from
burning down.

Queen Elizabeth I was not amused by such superstitions, though, so
banned the sale of the hot cross bun (it’s colloquial name by this
point) on all dates except for Christmas, funerals and, of course,
Good Friday.

Traditions change over time and now most of the local bakeries in St
Albans sell the treat at Easter only, including the cathedral’s
Abbot’s Kitchen.

Head baker Graca whips up a whopping 120 of these buns a day at this
time of year and locals will order in batches – a sign that they’re
still adored in these parts.

Round, fluffy and fresh out of the oven, the original Alban Bun is definitely a massive step above the supermarket variations.

I love its breadlike flavour and whack of cardamom. The
fact that it’s not overly sweet means you can eat three in a row –
what a win.

After tucking into them, make sure to explore the rest of the cathedral.

Daily tours are thoroughly fascinating – and completely free, although
donations are heavily relied upon, so don’t forget to pop some cash in
the box on your way out.

If you’re looking for even more historic fun to sink your teeth into,
the city’s Verulamium Park is brimming with Roman history and the
remains of old, slightly battered walls can still be seen as you
wander among the greenery.

Make sure to detour for a stroll along the River Ver, too, one of few
remaining chalk rivers in the UK.

Then you can reward your efforts with a pint at one of the many cute and quirky pubs.

St Albans is reportedly home to more pubs per square mile than any other city in the UK, so it would be rude not to sample its tipples.

The Boot, in the city centre serves proper ales alongside its Mexican
themed food menu, meanwhile Ye Olde Fighting Cocks, at the foot of the
cathedral’s hill, claims to be one of the oldest boozers in the
country and has a lovely pub terrace.

I wonder if Brother Thomas ever sunk a few in here.

Here’s where you’ll find the best buns in St Albans…

St. Albans is not short of excellent bakeries and in the name of good
journalism I made sure to try them all.

Here’s two of my other picks.

Proto Artisan Bakery
Sticky on the outside, with a glossy glaze, and fluffy on the inside, these buns look more akin to the ones you see in the shops, but are ten times more flavourful.

Baked fresh everyday, they are crammed with a great amount and variety of dried fruit and soft and light in texture, it needs nothing more than a slab of butter.

Glaze Bakery
A minutes’ walk from the cathedral’s entrance, this bun
is as delicious as the above.

The cross is not piped, but made from laminated dough that puffs up in the oven. The shiny crust is sprinkled with sugar crystals. Owner Oli recommends toasting it and eating with Marmite.
BLOB: See enjoystalbans.com or visit @enjoystalbans on social media.

For more on Hertfordshire, this beautiful English village is home to one of Britain’s best pubs.

And here are our favourite British beer gardens with some in cosy villages, and Cotswolds pubs.

IT’S no secret that Brits are obsessed with McDonald’s with over 3.8 million customers visiting every single day.

So when I heard the largest one in the world was opening just outside the UK, I had to see it for myself.

The biggest McDonald’s in the world was in Orlando – until the one at Disney Village in Paris opened just last month.

On the outskirts of the theme park, the new McDonald’s is 2,000sqm and set across three floors.

This makes it the biggest in the world overtaking the Orlando, Florida restaurant which measures 1,800sqm.

The new McDonald’s in France can seat up to 600 customers and has two outdoor terraces, each of which has space for 250 guests.

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This is where you get the best views, including of Lake Disney and the PanoraMagique hot air balloon.

Inside is a wall mural of Disneyland Paris and even an indoor soft play area for kids.

During my visit to preview the World of Frozen, which officially opened on March 29, I decided to pop in and see it for myself.

Like other new McDonald’s, this one has opted for a sleek look with dark wooden panelling, glass balconies and neutral tones.

But for those who remember the original next door, I reckon the exterior is a bit of a let-down.

The old restaurant which closed last year after 25 years, was very 90s with the classic golden arches outside, lots of red and white stripes and a real retro feel.

What’s quite sad is that you can still see the remains of it – including the golden arches which now lay on the ground – outside from the pretty sun terraces.

Pushing aside my views on the exterior, I carried on and entered the restaurant where I was greeted by a member of staff who gave me a table number and directed me to one of the twenty-three self-service machines.

The one we went to wasn’t actually working, like quite a few of the touchscreen stations, which was surprising, seeing as the restaurant had been open for less than a month.

Other than that, the downstairs was clean, with a few tables (as most of the seating is on the upper floors) and the entrance to the soft play.

There was also a separate McCafé counter where you could get a coffee as well as a doughnut, McPop or macaron.

There are lots of unique McDonald’s treats that vary depending on which country you’re in, so I had to go for some French-only goodies.

First up, the Croque McDo, which is essentially a cheese and ham toasted sandwich – which set me back €3.70 (£3.21).

For anyone who enjoys a croque monsieur, I’d definitely recommend a Croque McDo, it was a tasty ham and cheese sandwich with crunchy toasted white bread.

I then opted for the Fries Cheddar Fondu-Bacon, which are the classic French fries with melted cheese and bacon bits.

I can’t say the same for the chips, when they finally got to us, they weren’t overly warm and I wasn’t a fan of the cheese topping or bacon bits.

And as a Brit, I’m a sucker for a dry chip dipped in some ketchup.

A medium portion set me back €5.30 (£4.60).

And for dessert, a small pistachio sundae for €2.80 (£2.43) – my favourite of the three.

The soft-serve ice cream came in a little reusable pot and was drizzled in sweet and nutty pistachio sauce – it was delicious, and probably would be even tastier on a hot summer’s day rather than a chilly March morning.

One surprising drink that you can get here – and at McDonald’s restaurants across France – is beer, which is usually a Kronenbourg 1664.

Scrolling through the menu, I sadly didn’t spot any beer – but that was most likely because it was 11am in the morning.

Wanting to enjoy the view of Lake Disney, I headed onto the first-floor sun terrace which I had to say had beautiful views.

Other aspects of the McDonald’s that has people talking is its soft play.

I briefly had a look, and it is spread across all three floors with a huge winding slide going from top to bottom.

While I didn’t step inside, the excited wails of children implied that they were having a fun time.

However, not all experiences at the new McDonald’s have been positive, with some on my social media saying their food was cold, and service was slow.

After exploring Disneyland Paris for myself, I’d say McDonald’s is a quick and easy solution when hunger strikes.

But with so many other restaurants and snack stalls to explore within the theme park, I’d probably take a chance on them before returning to the fast-food chain.

For those who are planning a trip to Disneyland Paris to see the new World of Frozen – here’s everything you need to know before you go.

And here’s the best time to visit Disneyland Paris for cheaper hotels and shorter queues.

AS Brits frantically try and choose their summer holiday destination this year amid the Middle East crisis, let me sell you a slightly different place to go.

Lima, the capital of Peru, almost feels European, and has much cheaper food, hotels… and booze.

The seaside city is the second largest desert city in the world (after Cairo) meaning barely any rain, and highs of 27C.

It is often overlooked as a travel destination, especially those heading straight over to Machu Picchu instead.

But despite just spending a few days in Lima myself, it became one of my favourite cities.

First up, safety – most of Peru is still safe to travel to, which includes Lima.

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And as a young woman, I never felt unsafe while walking around early for a coffee or late at night for a drink.

Our guide told us this huge change in recent years – when it wasn’t so safe – is due to the number of community officers around, who are on hand to help tourists who visit.

When it comes to exploring the city, I was transported to the surf towns of Portugal by the huge surfing community in Lima.

It has some of the best waves in the world, and the sheer number of cyclists with boards on their bike and surf shacks offering lessons was huge.

Then there is the colourful Barranco neighbourhood, named one of the best in the world and known for its colourful street art that is everchanging.

Here is where you’ll feel its Latin American routes, with live music on the streets and bars selling the famous Pisco Sour cocktails.

Time Out said: “It’s long had a bohemian vibe, famously fantastical murals, world-class art galleries, boutique hotels and hopping bars.

“And while it’s lost none of its wild roots, the area is now incubating some of the best restaurants in the world”.

In fact, the city is home to a number of the world’s best restaurants.

Maido was named the no.1 restaurant in the world last year, while I headed to Mayta which often makes the top 40.

I opted out of the tasting menu, but still managed to enjoy a delicious deconstrusted paella, a side and a glass of wine for under £50.

The ‘godfather of modern Peruvian cuisine’ Gastón Acurio told local media: “Lima is a gastronomic destination coveted by kitchen lovers.

“Not only because of its restaurants, which compete equally with Europe, but because behind this recognition there is something deeper — a city that has made its cuisine parallel to everyday life.

“From award-winning restaurants to carts, from ceviche shops to chifas, eating in Lima is one way to travel the entire country in a single day.”

Want to eat on a budget? You can easily get snacks and drinks for under £5 from food stalls.

I managed to find an Emoliente (a sugary hangover drink) as well as a famous pork sandwich and sweet doughnuts called ‘Picarones’ for under a fiver altogether.

Or some restaurants offer the “menú del día” or menu of thte day for not much either.

Usually including a drink, soup and main dish, this can be found for under £4.

Beers can also be found for around £1.50 in local bars as well.

Otherwise make sure to try fantastic chocolate and coffee shops, with Lima being one of the top exporters to the rest of the world for both.

Free activities include the Spanish-style Love Park, inspired by Park Güell in Barcelona or the Museum of Art (MALI) on Tuesdays.

And the Historic Centre of Lima has elements of European architecture too, dating between the 16th and 19th centuries.

If you don’t mind sharing a room, you can find hostel beds for as little a £13 a night.

But if not, even hotels can be found for around £33 a night, such as Ibis – so £16.50 each a night when sharing.

The only thing getting in the way of Lima becoming a popular destination with Brits is the getting there.

LATAM previously had direct flights from London Heathrow to Lima but these were suspended back in 2023, with no current plans on when they will return.

Instead, Brits have to fly via Europe so with changes in Madrid, Amsterdam or Paris.

This takes the trip from around 12 hours to 16 hours, and costing around £500 return.

But there is some good news – the new Jorge Chávez International Airport in Lima opened last summer, which is likely to encourage airlines to launch flights.

And airline LEVEL is launching direct flights from Barcelona to Lima from June.

So if you want to visit a unique city with surfing vibes, colourful neighbourhoods and insanely cheap food and drink? Add Lima to your 2026 list.

A woman was left laughing at herself after visiting a Spanish castle for just €3 (£2.61) – only to discover the surprising reason behind the tourist attraction’s low entrance fee

While some holidaymakers are content spending a week basking in the sunshine, others would rather immerse themselves in a destination’s history and culture. However, one woman found herself chuckling at her own expense after mistaking a well-known Spanish landmark for an “ancient castle” – only to find out it’s considerably more modern than it appears.

Content creator Alisatata, known as @iam_alisatata on social media, revealed how she paid just €3 (approximately £2.69) to visit Castillo de Colomares following her move to Spain. She was instantly struck by the elaborate design of the structure, located in the coastal town of Benalmádena – but her wonder soon turned to astonishment when she uncovered the reality behind it.

Despite its impressive, historic look, the building was in fact constructed between 1987 and 1994, meaning it’s nowhere near as ancient as she’d believed.

Posting the moment on TikTok, she said: “Admiring this ancient castle and wondering how the ticket was so cheap… then realising it was actually built in 1994.”

The striking structure isn’t a castle in the conventional sense, but rather a monument dedicated to Christopher Columbus and his expeditions.

Covering roughly 1,500 square metres, it’s thought to be the world’s largest monument honouring the explorer – and it even houses what is claimed to be the smallest church on Earth.

Her video rapidly grabbed viewers’ attention, with many highlighting the mix-up.

One person said: “Most ancient castles have no decorations or details; they were built for defence in times of war, not to be beautiful.”

Another added: “That’s still pretty cool,” while a third wrote: “It’s not actually a medieval castle – it’s a monument dedicated to Christopher Columbus.”

Despite the confusion, visitors reckon the attraction is still well worth checking out.

Reviewing Castillo de Colomares online, one person described it as an “absolutely beautiful monument” with “amazing carving work,” adding the views alone justify the modest entrance fee.

Another visitor said it provided a “lovely break from the beach,” noting that while the site is fairly compact, there’s loads to absorb as you wander around.

A third reviewer called it an “architectural curiosity” overlooking the Costa del Sol, praising its blend of styles – from Gothic to Mudejar – and its scenic location.

While it might not be the ancient fortress she originally envisaged, it appears the distinctive landmark still made a memorable impact.

ON hearing that I was going to Malta, my grandfather insisted I check out a street in Valletta affectionately known as “The Gut”.

A quick Google search revealed that this “historically notorious” alleyway used to be the city’s premier red-light and entertainment district for British and American servicemen.

Given that Grandad was in Malta during his Navy days in the 1950s, I dread to imagine what he had in mind when suggesting I go there above anywhere else in the country.

Nevertheless, I’m glad I followed his advice because, in the 70-odd years since, it has cleaned up its act.

Located at the opening of The Gut at the time of my visit, (but now in St George’s Square) was Fifty Nine Republic, a restaurant that has featured in the Michelin Guide five years in a row.

Its head chef, Maria Sammut, is one of Malta’s greatest culinary assets — named “Best Maltese Chef” in recent years — and serves some of the finest fare in Valletta.

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Her prawn tacos perfectly showcase the best of Maltese seafood — giant, juicy prawns fried in a satisfyingly crispy batter, with bright and delicate pickles elevating each mouthful — which you can enjoy in the sun of St George’s Square, opposite the opulence of the Grandmaster’s Palace.

Something I doubt my grandad did too often on his nights in the city.

It was a well-earned meal, too, after a morning spent getting to know Malta’s more adventurous side.

While the stereotypical image of a tourist in Malta may be that of an older person seeking some relaxing winter sun, there is plenty in the way of activities for holidaymakers with a penchant for getting the adrenaline pumping.

I am typically not that type of person, which I realised as I found myself dangling from a cliff face with little more than a bungee cord and a metal hook for safety, doing something called via ferrata.

It involves scrambling along precarious ledges, using fixed steel cables to ensure anyone who falls is just about kept alive.

So, instead of doing the crossword with a cuppa — my normal morning routine — I had to rely on my minimal upper body strength and uncharacteristically delicate footwork to take me from the bottom of a sheer cliff face right to the top.

As a man who struggles with vertigo, this didn’t come easily, but the impressive landscapes — rugged cliff tops and lush greenery stretching out until they met the shimmering blue sea on the horizon — made it more than worthwhile.

What’s more, I was surprised at how quickly I started to enjoy myself.

The combination of warm weather, pushing 20C in February, spectacular scenery and trying something exciting put a spring in my step — ironically, the last thing I needed as I clambered up to the summit.

Delighted to have survived, I tested my resilience further — horse riding through the countryside of Bidnija village.

Yet this turned out to be an altogether more peaceful affair, as my steed — the majestic Romeo — begrudgingly bore me on his back and clip-clopped through some tranquil and verdant scenes.

Aloe plants rose out of the ground, looking like large desert cacti, making me feel like I was in my own John Wayne movie.

I even tipped the brim of my hat to passers-by as I rode towards the sunset, thoroughly enjoying an activity I would never before have thought to try.

The same thing happened on repeat throughout my visit.

Whether it was e-bike riding along the Dingli Cliffs — the highest point on the island, with vistas stretching for miles over sapphire seas — or abseiling on Gozo, the second-largest island in the Maltese archipelago, my perceptions about what I enjoy doing were constantly being challenged.

That’s not to say I didn’t make the most of a chance to relax in the warmth, while thick grey clouds at home were refusing to let any sunlight through.

Staying at the Marriott Resort & Spa meant I could unwind after my exertions and, come early evening, I could be found on a sunbed by the outdoor pool on the 13th floor, overlooking St Julian’s Bay.

The hotel also has an indoor pool, a gym better equipped than most actual gyms, and a spa offering a range of treatments and massages, including couples’ options.

After a wind-down by the pool, evenings were spent exploring the extensive selection of bars and restaurants.

Although I couldn’t try all the highly recommended eateries, I was particularly impressed by Trattoria AD 1530.

This charming Michelin Guide restaurant is located in the fortified medieval town of Mdina, which Game Of Thrones fans will recognise as King’s Landing from series one.

It perfectly showcases the Italian influence on Maltese cuisine, with its seafood pastas particularly worth a taste.

Then there was Sole by Tarragon, which offers beautiful harbour views, locally-caught seafood and Mediterranean classics.

My advice — order the sea bass, one of their nautical-themed cocktails and the caramel and banana dessert.

I’ll just have to go back and try all the ones I missed another time. I’ll see if my grandad has any more hot tips.

I dropped in on a bustling village that fringes a busy roundabout – and every corner leads you to beautiful green spaces

While I thoroughly enjoy residing in the city of Plymouth, I equally relish the opportunity to regularly escape the hustle and bustle to find somewhere I’m enveloped by woodland and birdsong. I recently discovered a destination offering respite from urban life – and it’s an ideal “traditional” location with several thriving independent retailers alongside excellent walks and scenery.

Being based in Plymouth means I’m generally spoilt for choice when it comes to escaping the concrete and cobbles of city life. Within easy reach is the South West Coast Path, stunning beaches or coves, plus numerous other small towns and villages to discover in the rest of Devon or neighbouring Cornwall.

I recently paid a visit to a village situated right on Plymouth’s edge, and it’s an underrated treasure of a destination. Yelverton, particularly the Yelverton Roundabout area, is straightforward to reach (I travelled there by bus) and it boasts a flourishing collection of shops plus beautiful countryside in every direction.

This well-loved village sits on the outskirts of the city. I appreciated the journey, travelling through Plymouth, then, abruptly, the urban landscape was left behind, giving way to Roborough Down.

After crossing the heath, golden with gorse and scattered with Dartmoor ponies, you encounter the Yelverton Roundabout – and this spot even has its own Facebook page with more than 7,000 followers, reports Plymouth Live.

Now, having spent several hours there, I can understand why it’s so beloved. Yelverton village has preserved its village character despite housing developments emerging around it over the years.

The locals were welcoming, and the independent shops and businesses offer something truly special, including a proper butcher’s, a deli, a cafe, a gift shop, and plenty more. Even the Post Office is packed with useful and intriguing items.

There’s also a classic red telephone box still standing at Yelverton Roundabout, directly across from the picturesque church on the green.

My first stop was the Dartmoor Bakery, a brief stroll from the roundabout over at Leg O Mutton Corner on Roborough Down.

I sampled a savoury swirl with honey-garlic roasted tomatoes and brie, and it was absolutely delicious. I enjoyed it while sitting on a bench that was “erected in 1968” by the Yelverton District Residents Association, in “memory of Winston Churchill”.

Afterwards, I wandered across to the shops and green space beside the roundabout, where I chatted with three residents, Belinda Gardiner and husband-and-wife duo Ian and Liz Marshall.

Ian revealed there’s a “thriving set of shops” around the Yelverton Roundabout, and while they’ve “changed over the years” they remain all “really well used”.

The three residents reflected that overall, though, since the 1980s, the area has altered “very little” despite there being “more cars” and a “few more surrounding houses”.

“We’ve also lost two pubs”, Ian noted, “the Leg O Mutton pub and the Devon Tors hotel are gone, but we still have The Rock Inn, which is great and well used”. The three residents described it as a marvellous place to call home, boasting abundant wildlife, including owls and bats, excellent walking and cycling trails, alongside “a reliable bus route” connecting passengers to Plymouth or Tavistock every 20 minutes.

I then ventured into Hearn’s Dartmoor Butchery and Meatbox, a sizeable independent establishment offering an impressive selection of locally-sourced meats.

Behind the counter, a staff member was preparing some particularly appetising-looking pasties, and I was also delighted to discover a vegetable stall within the premises.

I chatted with proprietor Richard Hearn, aged 40, who has practised butchery for over two decades. He’s also a devoted local and “sixth-generation” farmer’s son.

Richard shared: “I love it, the customers, the trade, I wouldn’t do anything else, it’s what I know. We push the local side of things, purchasing a lot of the meat from a farm in Meavy.

“I first worked here aged 22, then eventually started it up as my own business, the customers are fab, friendly and smiley – and it’s a slower pace of life here than Plymouth.”

Equally flourishing enterprises neighbour Hearn’s Dartmoor Butchery, including the highly-rated gift shop, Cards and Moor, characterised as a “beautiful shop full of treasures” by patrons.

I stopped by for a browse, and it’s certainly brimming with charming gifts, cards and some delightful-looking Easter goodies. I’ll undoubtedly remember these Yelverton retailers when I need to purchase a birthday present or another gift.

Residents informed me that this thriving cluster of shops is “getting busier”, and everyone I encountered was courteous and welcoming, with the area buzzing with activity.

Another outstanding shop, The Larder Yelverton, is an absolute must-visit if you find yourself in the area, offering a selection of unique cheeses, Cornwall-made pottery, and much more. I can’t wait to return.

Henry Smith, aged 46, is one of the proprietors of The Larder Yelverton, the deli which opened its doors in September 2020. Since then, the distinctive store has proved a hit, with its cheese selection proving particularly popular amongst locals and visitors alike.

Henry told me: “It’s a nice area to live and work in, it’s the people, and it’s so great to see the community supporting all the shops here.

“We have a lot of regulars along with walkers, cyclists, visitors and people on holiday – we even had a celebrity visit the shop yesterday.

“The only slight issue is parking and traffic flow in the area at times, but it’s great that it’s free to park for up to 2 hours at the Yelverton Roundabout.”

Debra Dewinne was enjoying lunch at another flourishing establishment in the same location, Scarlet’s Kitchen. Having relocated to the area a few years ago, Debra spoke highly of the local bus service, while acknowledging that traffic congestion can occasionally pose a problem in Yelverton.

“The car park is always full”, she said, “but it’s a sign that the shops are well supported here”.

Nearby, you’ll also find Ochre Hair Lounge, The Rock Inn and a host of other independent businesses at The Rock Complex on Dousland Road, just a short stroll from the other shops.

Despite being a modest cluster of shops and businesses, it’s undeniably a flourishing area; Yelverton Roundabout has almost everything you could need, it’s fair to say.

Also speaking to us was parish councillor and local resident Alastair Cunningham, an Independent Councillor on West Devon Borough Council representing Buckland Monachorum Ward.

On the subjects of parking, planning notices and traffic concerns, he said: “Our parish council meetings are open to anyone local; if people have any issues or problems they’d like to discuss, they can come along.”

Cllr Alastair noted that notices of these meetings are displayed on the noticeboard next to the red telephone box.

He went on to say: “It’s a good area to live in, there’s a lot of community, and the village halls and businesses are thriving here. The people and the shops are great; people tend to pick up their litter here, but we also have volunteer litter pickers.

“The butchers transformed the area, and we’re really lucky to have the community we’ve got in Yelverton. It’s a unique and traditional area.”

HAVE you ever dreamed of becoming a famous Olympian?

It might be out of reach for most of us mere mortals.

But at one resort in Italy, you can feel pretty close to it — especially if you’re skiing alongside one of Britain’s greatest Olympic snowboarders.

I joined two-time Winter Games star and World Cup winner Jamie Nicholls on the slopes of the dreamily named Milky Way (Via Lattea) ski area in the Italian Alps.

The snowy realm played host to the stars of the Turin Winter Olympics in 2006 and you can feel like a hero as you ski off from the original starting huts of the giant slalom or downhill black runs.

Remnants of the Games can be seen everywhere from the former bobsled track ­— a giant concrete cobra now disused and frozen in time ­— to the vertigo-inducing ski jump, as well as the downhill slopes.

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The main athletes’ village — now a four-star hotel — dominates the village of Sestriere, from where more than 400km of pistes stretch all the way to Montgenevre in France.

I was staying at a smaller former athletes village in Pragelato, which is now owned and run by the all-inclusive holiday giant, Club Med.

It is the company’s only village concept, with the many chalets housing 350 rooms and surrounding a main hotel building to give it a cosy feel.

Club Med celebrated its 75th anniversary last year and the mantra from its founder, Belgian Gerard Blitz, is: “The purpose of life is to be happy. The place to be happy is here. The time to be happy is now.”

The always smiling, helpful and friendly staff try their best to make this true every day.

Every evening, a show including music, dancing and theatre is performed for both children and adults in the main bar, and the partying goes on long into the night.

Club Med was the original all-inclusive holiday company and packages include ski passes, ski lessons and all food and drink from a main ­buffet restaurant serving delicious local pasta, meats and cheeses, as well as a pizza trattoria and a fine dining option.

And what is exceptional about Club Med Pragelato is that it also has four restaurants on the mountain where you can eat out and drink for free as part of your package.

This means you can make the most of your day’s skiing as you don’t have to trek back to your hotel for lunch.

Olympian Jamie is a convert and regularly takes his family — wife Jenny and their two young daughters, Lily and Rosie.

He said: “It’s just very easy. You don’t have to think — everything is done for you.

“You drop the kids off at the kids’ club, they get them dressed, they get their ski boots on, they get them off to ski school . . .  it’s no faff for you.

“They really put the kids at ease. They’re very energetic, very fun, so it takes their mind off them leaving their parents.

“My eldest has always been a bit scared of doing stuff on her own, but they are really good at making sure that they feel happy and OK.

“They’re very flexible in terms of when you want to pick your kids up after ski school.

“You can go and eat lunch with them and then bring them back, or you could just leave them there the whole day at the kids’ club.

“For family holidays I’ve not experienced a better one.”

Access to the slopes is also simple — just a one-minute walk to the cable car up the mountain. The skiing at Pragelato offers everything from beginners to the most hardcore advanced.

Avalanche kits are also available for those who want to do some of the endless back-country woodland routes and mountain-top off-piste adventures.

Ski lessons are included for free and there is a kids’ club all day and in the evening so you can enjoy ­supper in peace.

And while the children are being entertained, the adults can slip off to the spa for a massage and to chill and repair tired limbs in the ­hammam steam bath and sauna.

With so much included, the price is definitely not cheap.

In fact, you might need some of that Olympic gold and silver to afford a family holiday here.

However, if you value the stress-free convenience, it’s definitely worth it.

Some of that Olympian spirit could even rub off on you and who knows, your dreams of becoming an Olympian might just come true.