Wales

This beach in North Wales is a popular spot for those looking to unwind and immerse themselves in nature, with its golden sands, dunes, and views of the Snowdonia mountains

For a day of pure relaxation, surrounded by stunning natural beauty, there’s arguably no finer spot to escape than this gorgeous beach in North Wales.

Renowned for its breathtaking scenery, Llanddwyn Beach on the Isle of Anglesey has captured widespread acclaim for resembling something plucked directly from a holiday brochure. This idyllic location boasts not only pristine golden sands complete with dunes and crystal-clear waters, but also spectacular vistas of the majestic Snowdonia mountains.

As part of the Newborough Warren National Nature Reserve, this coastal gem draws crowds keen on kitesurfing, rambling, and observing local wildlife, though many visitors report feeling blissfully isolated during their stay. The location provides an atmosphere of complete serenity, particularly the trek towards the ancient lighthouse remains, which can only be reached during low tide along an extended pathway.

One recent holidaymaker shared their thoughts on TripAdvisor, describing the island, shoreline and panoramic views as utterly “magical”. They said: “Wow. One of the best beaches we have ever been to. Spectacular views, space and an adjoining forest area for walking too. The wall and views walking Llanddwyn, a small island, are breathtaking. Photos cannot do justice, and there’s loads of parking for beach access too.”

Another delighted traveller shared their joy from discovering the beach, writing: “A stroll down the beach, then as the tide goes out, the island becomes a peninsula. There are many paths to explore, and it’s worth using the smaller ones to the left as you come across deserted beaches and cliff tops with fantastic views over Snowdonia.

“I barely saw a soul! There are old buildings and old stories abound to discover. The place is magical and a place to just sit and be.” Whilst one holidaymaker said the beach boasts “beautiful white sands”, others favour wandering through the woodlands.

One person said: “There is a path that leads through the grassy hills from the beach to the nature reserve on Llanddwyn Island (Ynys Llanddwyn), and the surrounding forest has an excellent network of footpaths.”

Regarding the lighthouse itself, there’s masses of heritage to soak up. Its official name is Twr Mawr, perched on the tidal island of Ynys Llanddwyn, and it dates all the way back to 1845.

The grade II listed structure was crafted with the Anglesey windmills in mind, built to mirror their splendour, and reaches up to 10 metres high. Though, standing alongside it is another lighthouse called Twr Bach; whilst it’s more compact than its companion, this one continues to operate today.

During the summer that’s just passed, this stunning location gained even more attention for its scorching temperatures amongst holidaymakers. The Met Office logged it as one of the regions worst hit by the heatwave and, within the area, documented it as Britain’s most sweltering location.

However, adventurers should be aware there’s equally spectacular scenery to discover throughout the year. One review states: “We’ve only been here during the winter so far, but whether you venture down in stormy weather to get blown off your feet as you watch the sea raging, or you catch a calm day when the sun is shining, it’s impressive.”

This magical location in the UK is a woodland so bewitching and mysterious it appears to have been lifted straight out of a storybook — it’s the perfect destination for a weekend getaway.

There’s a pocket of Wales where time seems frozen, where the air is heavy with the fragrance of moss and drizzle, and mist dances through the trees like ghostly tendrils.

This magical location is the Rheidol Valley in Ceredigion, a woodland so bewitching and mysterious it appears lifted straight from a storybook.

The Rheidol Valley ranks highly on keen adventurers’ bucket lists, particularly the Vale of Rheidol Railway trip hailed amongst the globe’s premier destinations, with tourism specialists at Ski Vertigo proclaiming: “It’s one of the most magical landscapes in Britain, a hidden gem where waterfalls sparkle, trees whisper, and steam trains drift through the mist like something from a dream.”

The Rheidol Valley extends eastwards from Aberystwyth, following the winding River Rheidol as it travels 19 miles from the Nant-y-Moch Reservoir toward the shoreline. The deeper you explore, the more peaceful it grows, with only the sounds of tumbling water, rustling leaves, and distant bird calls. In some areas, sunlight barely filters through the tree cover, bathing moss-draped rocks in an otherworldly emerald light. The air feels fresh and damp, and every step appears to echo softly, as if the forest is listening in.

Mystical wonder of the Rheidol Valley

The woodlands around Devil’s Bridge overflow with mystery and magic. Towering oak trees curve over the pathways, while slender streams cascade down steep hillsides. Hidden amongst the lush greenery, cascades spring forth unexpectedly, their mist shimmering in the sunlight like a dusting of silver.

If you stop and listen closely, you might hear more than just the rush of water – a faint whisper carried on the wind or the creak of an old bridge swaying in the fog.

The Vale of Rheidol Railway, a charming steam train that seems plucked from a different time, chugs through the valley. It meanders leisurely through the forest, puffing out white clouds that drift among the trees. Locals say its whistle can be heard long before it comes into sight, a soft, ghostly sound echoing across the hills.

This train has been running since the Edwardian era, taking passengers past Aberffrwd, Rheidol Falls, Rhiwfron, and finally ending at Devil’s Bridge, a journey that feels like stepping back in time

Upon arrival at Devil’s Bridge, the story becomes even more magical. Three bridges are stacked one on top of the other, each built over centuries.

According to local lore, the first was built by the Devil himself, as the locals believed the gorge was too deep to cross. A deal was struck – the soul of the first creature to cross would belong to him.

But, as the legend goes, the cunning locals tricked the Devil by sending a dog across first, saving their own souls. However, when the wind howls through the bridge at dusk, some say it sounds like a low growl.

From the summit of the bridge, visitors can marvel at the Devil’s Bridge Falls, where the Mynach Falls cascade almost 300 feet into the gorge beneath. The atmosphere is fresh and damp, with the occasional delicate rainbow spanning across the rushing water. Some guests claim that the mist creates silhouettes that look like human faces, disappearing the moment you glance away.

Across the region, countless hiking trails guide you deeper into the valley’s heart. Some routes are short and easy, while others become difficult and hazardous after wet weather, reports Wales Online. The tracks meander past hidden pools, small waterfalls, and ancient stone walls covered in climbing ivy.

In spring, wildflowers blanket the woodland floor; in autumn, the leaves turn to burnished copper, washing the whole valley in warm tones.

How to get there

Travel experts describe the Rheidol Valley as a place that appears alive with “a forest full of secrets, where every path leads deeper into its story”.

The specialists recommend travelling by steam train as it offers the best method to experience the valley while you glide through mist-covered hills and over ancient viaducts – like following a forgotten adventure.

For the best visit, the professionals suggest taking the train from Aberystwyth to Devil’s Bridge, exploring the forest trails, and admiring the waterfalls before heading back.

Early morning or evening hours prove most magical, when the light is soft and the woods feel almost enchanted. Whether you’re drawn to the Rheidol Valley for its scenic walks, cascading waterfalls, or enchanting folklore, this magical place will linger in your memory long after you’ve left. It’s more than just a forest; it’s a living fairy tale.

While the spectre of Bale is inescapable with Wales, Johnson had another impossible act to follow at Spurs, joining in the same transfer window that saw Harry Kane leave for Bayern Munich.

“He came in at quite a weird time for the club. I’m not sure they really had a good plan for how to replace Kane,” says Jack Pitt-Brooke, who covers Spurs for The Athletic.

“Johnson came in at a difficult moment but, with injuries to other players, he ended up playing tons that year and he was actually pretty good.”

It helped that it was then-Spurs boss Ange Postecoglou who signed Johnson, who scored 23 goals in all competitions during his first two seasons.

“He fitted what Ange wanted from wingers,” Pitt-Brooke adds. “Really high and wide, scoring goals where a winger goes down one side, pulls the ball back across the box, and the opposite side winger taps it in. Johnson was good at both delivering that cross, and also tapping it in at the far post.”

Under Postecoglou, Spurs won the Europa League – with Johnson scoring the winner in the final against Manchester United – but the Australian was sacked this summer after the club finished 17th in the Premier League.

Thomas Frank replaced him – and the Dane replaced Johnson, with Kudus.

“Frank wants to play a different way, and he wants his wingers to do a lot more on the ball than just score tap-ins,” says Pitt-Brooke.

“Spurs paid £55m for Kudus, who doesn’t score many goals, but everything until he gets to the opposition goal is much better than Johnson.

“At the moment, I don’t think any Spurs fan would have Johnson in their first-choice team. It’s not really clear where he fits.”

Johnson has managed four goals in his 17 appearances in all competitions this season but, according to many supporters and pundits, does not offer much else.

“He doesn’t really do a lot apart from scoring goals,” says Pitt-Brooke. “There are obviously worse things to be than a guy who’s just known for scoring goals, but I think people would probably have expected him to have done more.

“He’s a bit of a mystery.”

Rees-Zammit suffered a toe injury in his fourth game for the Bears, but proved his fitness to earn selection on Wales’ bench for the autumn opener.

That led to plenty of pre-match focus being on a replacement and he got some of the biggest cheers of the afternoon.

Wales might have suffered a heavy loss, but the wing was still able to reflect on being in his “happy place” in a social media post.

“It was a great experience,” he said. “I did really miss being able to play at the Principality Stadium in front of our fans.

“It was incredible. You don’t really know you’ve left until you go back. When I came on and heard the crowd – all the support I had, it meant so much to me.”

Wales won just one of 19 Tests while Rees-Zammit was out of the picture in America, but the wing is confident of brighter times under Tandy.

“You could see glimpses last weekend of what’s to come. That was building a foundation of where we want to be and what team we want to be,” he said.

“We can do as much as we can in training, but we’ve got to show it on the weekend when all the fans have paid good money to come watch us play. It’s what they deserve.”

Rees-Zammit’s last international victory was against Georgia at the 2023 World Cup and he intends to help Wales repeat their summer success against Japan in a vital game ahead of December’s World Cup draw.

Eddie Jones’ Brave Blossoms would leapfrog Tandy’s side into 12th in the world rankings if they upset the odds in Cardiff.

Rees-Zammit said: “Everyone’s locked in on what’s next. Japan will be a tough game, but everyone is raring to go and is buying in 100%. We’re all ready.”

As he tried to calm the concern after defeat at Nottingham Forest, manager Daniel Farke admitted Leeds United supporters could be described as “emotional”.

Which could go a long way to explaining why Joe Rodon has fitted in so well with them.

The Wales defender not only wears his heart on his sleeve, but displays it on his face.

You didn’t have to be a body language expert to see the 28-year-old’s City Ground frustration as Leeds managed to concede three goals for a second week in a row.

Nor what it has meant to be a match-winner in the Premier League after his first top-flight goals last month.

As Leeds’ former title-winning centre-back Jon Newsome puts it: “He wouldn’t make a very good poker player”.

But Rodon has become something of an ace in the pack at Elland Road, with his fan favourite status going beyond just simply showing what it means.

And you don’t make a near century of consecutive league appearances – and mentions alongside Norman Hunter as a result – for pure passion alone.

Instead, Rodon is showing why he had been tipped for the very top after breaking through at Swansea, and what Wales fans heading to Liechtenstein this weekend have known for some time.

“He has all the attributes to belong in the Premier League,” said boss Craig Bellamy. “When we were at Burnley [in the Championship], we wanted to bring him in. We felt he was a player for the high level.

“What we’re seeing now is that player.”

Wales are hoping to turn the Principality Stadium back into a home fortress, having not won an international in Cardiff for 27 months.

Since beating England in a World Cup warm-up match in August 2023, Wales have suffered nine straight home Test defeats, a losing record which has stretched back 827 days.

The most recent Wales game in Cardiff was eight months ago – the horrific 68-14 home Six Nations defeat inflicted by England.

That was a record loss for the hosts in the Welsh capital, the most points they have conceded at the Principality Stadium, their heaviest Six Nations defeat, a record loss in the tournament and most points conceded against England.

So Wales have to make amends in a ground that is no longer a fortress. Tandy’s side face Argentina, Japan, New Zealand and South Africa in November, before home 2026 Six Nations matches against France, Scotland and Italy, in a tournament where Wales last won a home match in February 2022.

How many fans will turn up to watch Tandy’s side this month remains to be seen with the current discontent surrounding the Welsh game.

The Principality Stadium’s capacity is 74,500, meaning the four matches could attract a maximum of 298,000 supporters in November.

Wales’ clash against the All Blacks is currently the only game close to being a sellout.

There have been numerous anecdotal stories about some tickets now being available at a discounted rate and even being given away for free.

It is the WRU’s responsibility to try and attract back the fans who have drifted away disillusioned with what they have witnessed on the field and read about off it.

The house that served as the home of Doris in the hit BBC sitcom Gavin and Stacey is now available to rent for holidaymakers who want to immerse themselves in the world of the show

Attention, Gavin and Stacey superfans – you can now book a stay in one of the iconic houses from the hit BBC One sitcom. Trinity Street in Barry, with views of the Island, was the fictional home to Gwen and Stacey, Uncle Bryn and their cheeky neighbour Doris, played by actor Margaret John.

When the show returned in 2019, Doris’ house became the family home for Gavin and Stacey and their children, after it was passed down to them following her death. Gwen’s house (played by Melanie Walters) has always been a fan favourite, but now the neighbouring property is available for rent for holidaymakers wanting to experience the world of Gavin and Stacey.

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The red-brick terrace, named Lush House, is owned by Lisa and Chris Molloy, who are huge fans of the show. They were the first to view the property when it went on sale and managed to buy it, having loved the sitcom since it first aired in 2008, according to Wales Online.

You can book Lush House through Sykes Cottages for as early as next week, with prices starting from £472 for a two-night stay. If split between five people, this works out at around £47 per person per night.

The house comfortably sleeps five guests in two bedrooms: one double and another with a three-person bunk. The snug living and dining area is equipped with an electric fire, TV and WiFi for cosy nights in after a day of exploring, along with a dining table – just don’t forget the salad!

The property is already fully booked for Christmas week (we’re sure whoever has nabbed it is planning a Gavin and Stacey marathon) but there’s plenty of other availability in November and December.

The house has been the setting for some of Gavin and Stacey’s most memorable moments, including saucy Doris snogging toyboy Scott, making a pass at Gav on the doorstep, and in the 2019 and 2024 Christmas specials, it was the backdrop for the whole gang to celebrate Christmas as Uncle Bryn’s military operation dinner was (part) cooked there.

Step outside the front door and you’re just minutes away from Barry’s vibrant high street and Barry Island – where Marco’s Café, the slots and the chip shops are at the beach front – is just a half-hour walk away.

You can book Lush House with Sykes Cottages here, and for other holiday lets in Barry, try Holidaycottages.com and Vrbo.

Craig Bellamy laughs when asked about Rubin Colwill, the 23-year-old forward currently impressing for Cardiff City.

“He’s big for you, isn’t he?,” Bellamy asks the reporter who brings up his name.

Not that Bellamy is not a fan of the nine-cap midfielder, to the contrary.

However, Colwill has not always featured in Bellamy’s Wales squads despite playing a starring role in Cardiff’s League One promotion bid and their quarter-final EFL Cup run.

“Rubin is able, there’s still one or two bits that we need more from, but he’s capable,” insists Bellamy who has plenty of other reasons to be a regular at Cardiff City Stadium.

“For the first time in a long, long time, I’ve really enjoyed coming away from Cardiff games with a smile,” he added.

“Last year was difficult, the atmosphere was down, but now I get to see a number of Welsh young players playing in a way I like.

“I only see them improving and selfishly I just see that this is going to benefit the country, so I’m over the moon with that.”

England have been drawn with Spain in their qualifying group for the 2027 Women’s World Cup.

Spain beat the Lionesses in the 2023 World Cup final, but England gained revenge when they beat the world champions in the Euro 2025 final in July to retain their European title.

Iceland and Ukraine have also been placed in Group A3 alongside Sarina Wiegman’s side.

Qualifying for the World Cup, which will be held in Brazil, follows the same format as the Nations League and is split into three tiers.

Only the four group winners in League A will automatically qualify for the finals, with the remaining teams having to go through the play-offs for the remaining eight places.

Scotland have been paired with Belgium, Israel and Luxembourg in Group B4, while Wales will face the Czech Republic, Albania and Montenegro in Group B1.

Northern Ireland have been placed in Group B2 with Switzerland, Turkey and Malta, and the Republic of Ireland are in Group A2 alongside the Netherlands, France and Poland.

The qualifiers will be played across six matchdays, on a home and away basis, during 2026, starting on 3 March and finishing on 9 June.

Uefa has been allocated 11 places for the 32-team 2027 World Cup.

An additional European team could also qualify through Fifa’s intercontinental play-offs.

Wales are playing a week later than other nations, with all last weekend’s games played outside World Rugby’s international window.

The window is a designated three-week period, which starts this weekend, where international matches take precedence over club fixtures and all players are made available.

The likes of Ireland, Scotland and England chose to stage matches a week before the window opened.

The extra games are organised to raise revenue for governing bodies with the success of the fixture depending on how many tickets are sold.

The Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) has opted to play their extra match on the weekend after the window closes. They take on the Springboks on Saturday, 29 November when no other international matches are taking place.

The match in Cardiff clashes with league fixtures in the United Rugby Championship (URC) which will involve sides from Wales and South Africa.

Both Test teams are set to also be without players who play for clubs in England and France, while the Springboks also have players involved with sides in Japan.

Tatum Ellis, who is known for documenting her travels across the UK, recently visited the seaside town for the first time and she ventured to the local Wetherspoons

Lots of Americans love exploring the UK, with some finding the most unlikely things on their adventures. Tatum Ellis, known for documenting her UK travels, recently visited Llandudno in Wales and was left utterly smitten.

However, the attraction that caught her eye might just surprise you, as the travel vlogger shared her experience on TikTok, leaving some viewers amused by the one aspect she found particularly “gorgeous.” It seems that when it comes to breath-taking views, Wales certainly has a lot to offer both visitors and locals.

Tatum confessed that visiting a place like Llandudno was an “American’s dream.” She’s not the first to be swept off her feet by the nation’s charms either, with other Americans also believing some things are much better in the UK.

At the start of her video, she began by exploring some local charity shops. A fan of a good bargain, she seemed delighted with what the shops had to offer.

Tatum discovered two gold rings in one shop, which she snapped up for a mere £5.00 each. She was over the moon with her purchases, describing them as “super pretty.”

She continued her exploration with her partner, but it was a specific pub that grabbed her attention. Upon spotting a Wetherspoons, Tatum was quite taken aback, impressed by the décor.

According to her, the local Wetherspoons is particularly “gorgeous” and offers “stunning views.” Who would have thought a simple pub could make such an impression?

Tatum said: “We love a good Wetherspoons. Guys, take a look at this Wetherspoons. Have some of you ever seen anything like that? I sure haven’t, so let’s get some food right now.”

She also praised the stunning scenery surrounding her, describing it as an exceptionally beautiful location. The pair then made their way to the beach and clearly had a brilliant time.

Tatum thinks Llandudno is absolutely worth a visit, saying they adored it and found plenty to explore. The clip has racked up more than 3,000 views since being posted, sparking a flurry of responses.

Viewers had plenty of opinions to share. One wrote: “You are so lucky to find a table in Wetherspoons.”

Another added: “I love Llandudno.” A third replied: “I live here and love how you have shown the town.”

Meanwhile, a fourth commented: “This is my home. So glad you enjoyed it.” Someone else also chimed in with: “I can’t believe you passed so many brilliant pubs on the way to Spoons!”

For those unfamiliar with Llandudno, it’s a coastal town in North Wales, frequently dubbed the “Queen of the Welsh Resorts.” The Victorian-era holiday hotspot is renowned for its extensive promenade, historic pier and golden beaches.

The age at which you can get a free bus pass can differ greatly depending on where you are based

People across the nation could be in line for additional assistance with their travel expenses, including a bus pass offering free or discounted journeys on local bus services. No matter where you reside in the UK, there is a plethora of schemes designed to make public transport more wallet-friendly, though not everyone will qualify.

Eligibility can vary greatly depending on your location within the UK. For instance, the age at which you can receive a free bus pass can differ significantly if you are located in England, Scotland, or Wales.

Most of the complimentary bus passes nationwide are primarily reserved for the elderly, especially after the government confirmed it will abandon a proposed trial of free bus passes for anyone under 22 in England. As per a BBC report, the government stated that there were no funds available to support the scheme during the current spending review period, which runs until 2028/29.

Continue reading for a comprehensive overview of all the available assistance.

England

In England, pensioners become eligible for a free bus pass when they hit the state pension age of 66, which applies to both men and women. So, if you were born in 1959, you will be able to get your hands on the free bus pass this year.

You can apply for this scheme through your local council under the English National Concessionary Travel Scheme, although the actual name of the bus pass may change depending on where you live.

When applying, you might be asked to provide a passport-style photo as well as a document proving your age and address. However, there is one city in England that has slightly different rules.

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London

Free travel on buses, tubes and other transport is available from the age of 60, but this is only within London. This can be accessed via the 60+ London Oyster photocard which also allows you to get free transport on Transport for London services anytime Monday to Friday, except between 4.30am and 9am.

Further details of free bus travel in England can be found here.

Scotland

In Scotland, once you hit 60, you can get your hands on a National Entitlement Card which gives you free bus travel all over Scotland. However, bear in mind that this Scottish concessionary travel only applies to registered local and long-distance bus services.

So, certain premium-fare services, tours, excursions and group hire services aren’t part of the deal. If you are also between the age of five and 21, you may also be eligible for a National Entitlement Card (NEC) which allows you to access the Young Persons’ Free Bus Travel Scheme.

Further details on free bus travel for older people in Scotland can be found here.. Meanwhile, further details on free bus travel for younger people in Scotland can be found here.

Wales

Within Wales, you may be able to get free travel on buses if you are disabled, aged 60 or over, or an injured service personnel which you can apply for through Transport for Wales. While not free, people aged between 16 and 21 caaan apply for a MyTravelPass which allows them to get up to a third off the cost of bus travel in many circumstances.

Further details of this in Wales can be found here.