Weekend Content

I’VE lived on Kent’s trendy coastline for more than five years, so I think I can legitimately call myself a local now.

After ditching London in my late twenties, I’ve lived in both Margate and Folkestone, while spending my weekends exploring the other seaside towns.

In the last 15 years, Kent’s seaside towns have arguably seen the biggest transformations of the whole British coast.

That’s due to a combination of new investment, an influx of ‘down from Londoners’ moving in and a reignited love of the traditional seaside break among Millennials.

But which town you should visit depends on what type of trip you’re looking for.

So here are my top tips for seven of the best Kent beach towns and villages, from what to do and where to eat, to the best hotel and things to do under a fiver.

Whitstable

One of the more established Kent seaside towns, Whitstable is famous for its annual Oyster festival and has been a popular tourist destination for the last few decades – long before towns like Margate saw a resurgence.

Eat and drink in Whitstable

Blueprint Coffee and Books is the kind of place where you’ll go in for a cappuccino but come out with magazines and a candle.

The pastel pink Wheelers Oyster Bar is where everyone goes for their seafood (and for good reason) but if you fancy something other than fish, Harbour Street Tapas is the place for Spanish sharing plates.

In the summer months, the Old Neptune pub is a must, where the pub garden is right on the beach. Or try Porto Wine Bar, tucked a bit further down for staff who really know their wines.

Don’t forget an ice-cream – Bear’s Ice Cream Imaginarium has everything from classics to more unusual flavours like celeriac and wasabi. Yes, really.

Best things to do in Whitstable

Harbour Street is home to some fantastic vintage shops to explore. I picked up a jumper worth £69 for a fiver, so it has some treasures if you look hard enough.

There’s also Whitstable Harbour, still a working harbour, to explore as well as the free-to-visit Whitstable Castle with beautiful gardens and a kids’ play area.

Really fancy a dip? Brave the water with the other cold water swimmers but make sure to warm up in the Sea Scrub Sauna, one of many around Kent.

Where to stay in Whitstable

The Marine Hotel is a classic coastal B&B, with big chunky king size beds and windows thick enough to keep out the sea breeze.

The restaurant is where you will join the locals on a Friday night with a classic but hearty menu making you grateful for the proximity of your room.

Rooms from £125. See marinewhitstable.com.

Under £5 in Whitstable

Why not test your crabbing skills?

Head to the end of the harbour and pick up a crabbing net from one of the stalls which are usually under a fiver and see what you can catch.

Margate

Nicknamed Shoreditch-on-Sea, Margate is known for being one of the trendiest beach towns in the country.

As well as having one of Kent’s rare sandy beaches (most are shingle) this has also seen a huge increase in cool wine bars and restaurants.

Eat and drink in Margate

Start your day at Big Shot Diner for a cup of tea while looking out over the beach, or the Bus Cafe for a great full English breakfast.

When it comes to fish, the best chippies in town are Peter’s Fish Factory and Beach Buoys, so expect queues out the door, or for a fancier sit down affair, head to Angela’s.

Pizza by the slice is best at Palm’s Pizzeria, best chased by a pickleback shot (whisky and pickle juice).

There are some great wine bars too but my favourite place to go are the pubs in Margate.

Try Rose in June for fun food and drink pop ups or the 18th century George & Heart House, which also has rooms above if you fancy staying the night.

Best things to do in Margate

The beach itself is beautiful but for more adrenaline-fuelled fun, head to the free-to-visit Dreamland.

You can pay for rides, or just take in the retro-style attraction – come in the summer for the fantastic live music line up ranging from Lovebox to Bastille.

Or did you know Margate is home to Europe’s only Crab Museum? It’s certainly quirky but one to visit as its free, although they rely on donations.

And of course there is the free Turner Contemporary art gallery as well, which is reopening on May 23 with a new exhibit.

Where to stay in Margate

Lots of boutique hotels have opened in Margate in recent years, and one of the best is Guesthouse No.42.

One of just four in the UK, it even has the town’s only rooftop bar, which overlooks the beach.

Rooms start from £141. See guesthousehotels.co.uk.

Under £5 in Margate

The bizarre Shell Grotto remains a mystery as to why or how it was built – but its a beauty to see.

Concession tickets start from £5, kids tickets are £2.

Folkestone

Named one of the best places to live in the UK last year, Folkestone has seen a huge rise in popularity in recent years, partly because of its speedy, 52-minute train from London.

There are some new openings to be excited about too, including the Lower Leas Cliff funicular.

Eat and drink in Folkestone

After it’s success in Margate, Pomus opened their second small plate restaurant in Folkestone. It’s one of the smarter places in town, but service is just as friendly with a rotating menu of locally caught produce.

Award-winning Rocksalt is the place for fish lovers, overlooking the harbour (and the oysters are a must).

Or for something more low-key, there is the local-loved Morley’s which has a small but classic menu – think burgers and pastas.

If there is one thing Folkestone isn’t short of, it’s pubs – try the Harbour Inn or The Pullman for friendly staff and local ciders.

And splash out for the evening by heading to the end of the harbour for a glass of fizz at The Lighthouse Champagne Bar, or a cocktail at Gaia Studios.

Best things to do in Folkestone

The Harbour Arm celebrated 10 years this year, and you can easily spend a day in the shipping container yard.

Along with food and drink stalls, there are independent shops selling everything from locally-made wine to clothing and dog treats. It also has lots of live music throughout the year and live screenings of films and sports.

Also nearby is The Boardroom for darts and shuffleboard (currently closed for a renovation), while the new Sea Scrub Sauna is the largest of its kind in the UK. Otherwise go for a wander along to the Lower Leas Coastal Park, which is getting a huge new playground too.

Where to stay in Folkestone

The London & Paris Hotel is one of the few boutique hotels in town, where every room overlooks the harbour.

Each room is coastal chic – think blue striped walls and vintage bathtubs – and they come with little touches such as complimentary binoculars and breakfasts delivered by hamper.

Rooms start from £71. See londonandparishotel.co.uk.

Under £5 in Folkestone

Grab an ice cream from Herbert’s Gelato with a rotating menu of interesting flavours such as hot cross bun or malted milk. From £3.90.

Ramsgate

From welcoming Queen Victoria in the 1800s to having the UK’s only Royal Harbour, Ramsgate has a rather regal history.

Now, it is a popular seaside town still slightly overlooked by its trendier neighbours Margate and traditional Broadstairs, but it is a great weekend break.

Eat and drink in Ramsgate

Get your morning coffee at Staple (along with an irresistible cruffin to go) with cafes also open in Westgate and Broadstairs.

But for the best places to eat, there are two top choices. First up is Marc-Pierre’s Kitchen restaurant where you will find some of the best seafood in town (with enough awards to show for it).

Otherwise curry fans should head straight to Flavours by Kumar.

It’s tucked down a tiny hidden side street but with big restaurants under his belt, including London’s famous Cinnamon Club, you’re in good hands (make sure to save room for the chocolate samosas).

End your evening at Noa Rooftop, which opened last year, for a crisp glass of wine to watch the sunset.

Best things to do in Ramsgate

Ramsgate has the UK’s only Royal Harbour, so it is the best place to spot the boats coming in and out for the day.

But its wartime history is best learned about at the Ramsgate Tunnels.

There are daily tours of the underground system that is also the largest UK network of wartime tunnels.

Search the knick-knacks of Petticoat Emporium, one of Kent’s biggest indoor markets with 200 traders and where you can pick up everything from vintage spoons to huge wicker chairs.

Where to stay in Ramsgate

Ramsgate is more B&Bs than boutique hotels, but one of the best in town is the The House at Ramsgate which dates back to 1780. With just 14 rooms which are cosy but modern, choose the Queen Victoria Room where she spent three months in 1835. Make sure to stay for the roast dinners too…

Rooms from £90. See thehouseatramsgate.co.uk.

Under £5 in Ramsgate

Of course, a visit to Ramsgate isn’t complete with a trip to the Victorian Pavilion – the UK’s (and technically) the world’s biggest Wetherspoons pub, so spend around £4.50 for a pint of Corona and head to the rooftop for views over the beach.

Broadstairs

With strong connections to Charles Dickens (who raved about the place while holidaying there), Broadstairs is your more traditional seaside town.

It has seven sandy beaches to choose from, so you’re spoilt for choice.

Eat and drink in Broadstairs

If you love a good coffee, you’re in luck – there’s Giant Coffee, who do unique hot drinks like cloud matchas (and are also in Ramsgate and Margate) to Forts who are known for their great coffees across Kent.

Fish and chips are a must at the beach and everyone heads to The Mermaid who do very large portions.

Chase it with an ice cream at Morelli’s Gelato which dates back to 1907, they sell huge towering sundae with all the trimmings.

But for dinner, you can’t go wrong with the award-winning Bar Ingo, a tiny restaurant with just a few tables but serving small plates inspired by basque dishes.

I’m still dreaming of the miso mushrooms after my last visit.

Best things to do in Broadstairs

Broadstairs has the beautiful curved Viking Bay sandy beach, so hanging out there is a must. Grab a paddleboard or rent a deckchair; you can do what you like to while away the day.

There are also the retro arcades at the top of the hill, which are a surefire hit with the kids.

Or you can explore some of the independent shops selling trinkets and gifts on the high street (my favourites are Home by SP and Arrowsmiths).

Where to stay in Broadstairs

One of the newest hotels in Broadstairs is Smith’s Townhouse, with just six bedrooms in the Georgian building. Stylish east London interiors are across the downstairs cafe and the rooms – Room Five even has Elton John’s former wardrobe.

They have some of the best coffee in town – perfect for a breakfast pick me up – but stay for a vibe in the evening where you can get cocktails and nibbles too.

Rooms start from £140. See smithstownhouse.co.uk.

Under £5 in Broadstairs

Broadstairs was once raved about by Charles Dickens, so a visit to the Dickens House Museum is a must.

Inside is the inspiration for Betsey Trotwood’s home from the novel David Copperfield.

Tickets cost £5 for adults of £2.50 for kids.

Deal

The town of Deal is quickly becoming a foodie hub, with some critically-rated restaurants popping up.

It also has a great art scene, with numerous galleries and frequent exhibitions from local artists.

It’s on the smaller side than Whitstable or Folkestone, but also makes it far more walkable.

Eat and drink in Deal

Popup Cafe is, despite it’s name, not a pop-up but a fantastic coffee shop where you’ll be hanging with young families and coworkers on their laptops.

Mostly known only to locals, the local Jenkins & Son Fishmongers opens at certain days to offer street food dishes; I regularly make a trip for the Monkfish Tacos.

For pubs, try the Caribbean style roast at The Port Arms, which shares an outdoor seating area with the nearby Kings Head pub – also worth a drink in.

The recently revamped Le Pinardier wine bar will transport you to a French bistro (without the snobby staff when you ask for a Pinot Grigio, however).

Best things to do in Deal

The high street is full of art galleries and independent sellers, my favourites being The Hoxton Store, Mileage and 123 High Street for gifts.

Explore the brutalist Deal Pier, restored twice in its history and now one of the last remaining of its kind, where you can weave between the fishermen for some of the best views in town.

Kids will love Deal Castle where they can explore the hidden tunnels and even play pretend with wooden muskets.

Otherwise try and visit on a Saturday morning to catch the local market that dates back to 1699 – and fill your pockets with antiques and cinnamon buns.

Where to stay in Deal

The Rose Hotel is one of the UK’s best boutique hotels, with just nine cosy rooms. Make sure to try the restaurant too, its one of the finest in town with a previous menu highlight being the chicken shnitzel.

Rooms from £110. See therosedeal.com.

Under £5 in Deal

Grab a bottle of beer at the stunning Deal Pier Kitchen to get beautiful ocean views, while being protected from the sea winds.

Hythe

The military history of Hythe shapes it, being one of the UK Cinque Ports.

Now, its a sleepy seaside town, less crowded due to it being off the beaten track and having no major train station.

Eat and drink in Hythe

Arrive early and get a coffee from the tiny, locally-run Mit Milche Coffee although expect queues out the door by mid-morning.

Gorge on some moules mariniere at The Waterfront with a table outside by the promenade, where you can expect a range of live jazz and DJ music on certain days.

If you’re in the mood for something fancier, just on the outskirts is Hide & Fox which gained a second Michelin star last year.

Just come hungry if you opt for the eight-course menu.

If the sea air is a little brisk, warm up in the Kings Head pub, one of the oldest and cosiest in town dating back to 1583.

Best things to do in Hythe

The Royal Military Canal is prime for low-key strolling, running for 28 miles and made as an anti-invasion defence again Napoleon in 1803 (although it was never used.)

There are also the Hythe Sound Mirrors which were huge structures build to “listen” for enemy planes and have now been left abandoned – but worth a visit to see the sheer scale of them.

Make sure to take kids to the famous Romney, Hythe and Dymchurch Railway, with small train carriages running a small route via Dungeness.

Want to get your shopping kicks? Head to Malthouse Arcade on Fridays and Saturdays with trinkets galore across two floors.

Where to stay in Hythe

You don’t get much grander than the Hythe Imperial Hotel, overlooking the English Channel. Inside an 18th manor house, there are 92 rooms to choose from. Save time for a cuppa in the Snug or a trip to its Moet & Chandon Bar.

Rooms from £146. See hytheimperial.co.uk.

Under £5 in Hythe

Why not have a free game of tennis, with five courts open to the public at South Road Sports Facility (although save a few quid to buy some more tennis balls for any rogue hits).

KATIE Price may be going through hell on earth as she waits for news on her “missing” conman husband Lee Andrews.

But if there’s one thing that the former glamour model, 47, knows how to do, it’s bounce back from heartbreaking and troublesome situations.

And that’s exactly what insiders say three-times divorcee Katie is planning to do next.

Katie has been through the wringer this last week over Lee, who has made no contact with her for days and appears to be in hiding in Dubai, despite initially making his wife think he had been kidnapped.

While Katie is going through hell, a source has insisted that, ultimately, the business savvy star won’t let this ruin her and is used to “turning pain into power”.

And the dramatic scandal is already attracting big money offers, with an insider saying that Katie may reveal all in another autobiography.

LOST LEE

Where is Lee Andrews? What we know about Katie Price’s ‘missing’ hubby

final call

Katie Price reveals more details on Lee Andrews’ ‘kidnap’ and final FaceTime

A source told us: “With Kate, people underestimate her because they see the chaos before her comeback.

“That’s always been the story with her.

“She’s been through bankruptcy, public humiliation, heartbreak and things that would completely destroy most people – in fact, some close friends wonder how she’s still standing after everything she’s been through in her life but somehow she finds a way to rebuild her life and come back bigger and better every single time.

“Right now, everyone is genuinely worried about her.

“She’s extremely vulnerable, she wears her heart on her sleeve, and this whole shocking situation with Lee disappearing has shaken her badly.

“It really upset her too that people said she was in on it all.

“But Katie has this strange ability to survive things people think she won’t. She’s like a cat with nine million lives.”

As our source points out, while the TV star feels embarrassed that Lee has made a fool of her, she won’t be herself be a punchline.

“Katie is mortified that some people think this is one big joke and some cruel trolls are laughing at her for being so trusting, but she’ll dust herself off. At the end of the day, Katie may wish this had never happened but she knows that the only thing worse than being talked about is not being talked about at all.

“Her life has been laid bare for the world to see for the best part of three decades and she has no desires to let her popularity die anytime soon. And one thing is for sure, she certainly won’t let her brand be damaged by another man.

The source continued: “The thing about Kate is she’s never been ashamed of her mess.

“Most people try to hide their scandals but she somehow turns hers into opportunity.

“It sounds ruthless when you say it out loud, but she’s incredibly smart when it comes to understanding how the media works and how to manage public attention.

“She knows people are fascinated by her life and so she puts it all out there warts and all, nothing is off limits.”

With the huge interest in her latest marriage growing by the day and Lee’s whereabouts still a mystery, it’s fully expected that publishers and streaming channels will want her to dish the dirt on what’s really gone on.

“I wouldn’t be surprised if six months from now she’s announcing a new bestselling book, a brand new Netflix , another series of her upcoming Sky documentary, or maybe even a new reality TV series back on ITV where she started out,” our source said.

“That’s what Katie does. Everything that looks a disaster or like the end for her somehow becomes the beginning of a brilliant new chapter.

“She’s had people mock her for years, saying she’s finished, saying she’s hit rock bottom, but she always seems to have the last laugh.

“Somehow, even disaster turns into profit for her.

“It’s almost unbelievable. Nobody else does this.”

Katie has had her fair share of ups and downs in her life and her romantic life has always been at the centre of that.

Each of her marriages have ended in heartbreak, with the star taking swipes at her various exes on social media over the years.

She married Peter Andre from 2005 to 2009, then briefly to Alex Reid in 2010 to 2011 and Kieran Hayler from 2013 to 2015.

But despite her love life going up on flames on multiple occasions, she’s always managed to find a way to “reinvent herself” a source said.

The insider told us: “Katie’s biggest strength is that she refuses to stay down.

“She can cry one minute and be planning her comeback the next. That resilience is what keeps her going and it’s probably why the public can’t stop rooting for her.”

Over the years, Katie has faced criticism – whether it’s for her driving, her love for cosmetic surgery, her dramatic weight loss or her parenting.

But she has managed to use the backlash to monetise.

Katie’s cashed in on various avenues – from her podcast, to her live show with pal Kerry Katona, to her Channel 4 documentary about her Mucky Mansion and now even her OnlyFans.

And the star has shared her story along the way, writing a whopping eight autobiographies between 2004 to 2024.

Her latest was titled This Is Me and spilled the beans on her exes, her PTSD and her past trauma.

It’s clear that Katie’s not just a one-trick pony.

And it’s no different this time around, regardless of whether Lee is in the picture or not.

“There’s definitely a feeling among her friends that, as awful as this situation is, Katie will eventually find a way to turn pain into power again,” our source said.

“She’s done it her entire life.

“Every scandal, every crisis, every setback, she finds a way to monetise it, reinvent herself, and move forward.

“She is the ultimate brand with true longevity and star power.

“People see the headlines and think she’s fragile, but there’s another side to Katie. She’s incredibly determined. She’s a survivor.

“She’s always believed that if life gives her drama, she might as well make something out of it. Love her or hate her, Katie understands celebrity culture better than most people.

“She knows how to keep herself relevant. Even in the darkest moments, she’s already thinking three steps ahead.

“I think what shocks people is that she never really loses, even when it looks like she has lost everything.

“Somehow, she turns every catastrophe into another opportunity.

“Lee might think he’s won but by the end of it, she’s the only winner.”

It all started last Tuesday when he was supposed to join her on Good Morning Britain for their first television appearance together.

However, he failed to make it to the UK and she was forced to go it alone, facing a grilling from hosts Susanna Reid and Ed Balls.

Lee, 43, shared an Instagram video where he claimed he was at Muscat airport and he was on his way to the UK.

However, he was caught in a lie as he was actually in Dubai Terminal 2.

Since then, he’s gone off grid and nobody has been able to trace him over the course of the last week.

Katie claimed her husband has been “kidnapped” and the last she heard from him, he was in the back of the van with cable ties on his arms.

She told her YouTube subscribers in a video that the police could not find any record of him being detained and she’d been in contact with the British embassy in Dubai to help track him down.

The former glamour model said: “We are now wondering, as far-fetched as it is, that he’s a missing person now, I don’t know if he’s been kidnapped.

“No one can find him in any prison, any police station, the police can’t find any record of him.

“We are wondering if he’s been kidnapped, he’s definitely a missing person now.

“The unsettling thing for me, the last time I heard from him, he FaceTime me, he had a hood on and said ‘I’ve just been captured or arrested’ and had ties around his hand, not handcuffs, and said ‘they’re coming back for me’. Then his phone went dead at 10.03pm.”

His family filed a missing persons report on Monday at the embassy.

Katie shared her final text messages with Lee, where he told her he loved her and he will “sort it”.

There is ongoing speculation that Lee is unable to leave the United Arab Emirates city after allegedly forging his ex-girlfriend Dina Taji’s signature to secure a £200,000 loan – something he’s strongly denied. 

A HISTORIC lido with stunning sea views is reopening today, just in time for the good weather.

Located on the edge of a scenic area dubbed the UK’s Costa del Sol, this pool is the perfect place to cool off in the summer sun.

Dating back to the 1930s, Brightlingsea in Essex is one of the last remaining lidos in the area.

The site boasts an Olympic-size outdoor pool, along with a heated toddler pool as well as sun loungers, changing rooms, and a cafe.

Summer sessions will run from 7am until 5pm, with the first three hours allotted for relaxed lane swimming.

Aquacise and “little dipper” sessions for younger swimmers are also available.

MAKE A SPLASH

All the UK lidos opening this bank holiday weekend as temps set to hit 28C

MAKE A SPLASH

Massive new ‘floating’ lido to open in the UK next month

The lido first opened in 1932 as a tidal salt pool, eventually converting to freshwater in the 1970s.

Nowadays, the popular site is run by volunteers who saved it from closure in 2017.

General entry costs £7.50 for adults and £5.50 for children aged two to 18 and seniors over 65.

Toddlers under the age of two can enter for free.

Cheaper rates are available for lane swimming, quiet sessions, and aquacise, with more information available on the lido’s website.

The site will be open from 7.30am until 7.15pm until Monday, August 31.

Brightlingsea is much quieter than its neighbouring towns such as Clacton but is still known for its shingle beach.

The area is perhaps most recognisable for its line of colourful beach huts on the promenade.

One visitor described the area as “very unspoilt, family oriented, beautiful beach. Traditional town back in the 50’s.”

Brightlingsea is on the UK’s Sunshine Coast, which one person said is like “going back in time to seaside holiday of the past.”

Another visitor told The Sun: “I was on the Sunshine Coast of Essex, which is often compared to Spain thanks to it being one of the sunniest, driest spots in the country.

“What I really loved about exploring the Essex seaside is the sheer variety of experiences on one relatively small stretch of coast, bookended by Brightlingsea in the south and Harwich in the north.”

OFF the coast of Northumberland is a remote, tidal island that you’ll have to time right to visit – as it is cut off from the mainland twice a day.

Called Lindisfarne, or by its other name, Holy Island, it might be familiar to fans of horror movies.

Follow The Sun’s award-winning travel team on Instagram and Tiktok for top holiday tips and inspiration @thesuntravel.

The island off the coast of Northumberland was used to film post-apocalyptic film, 28 Years Later, which came out just last year.

The 2025 movie was about a group of survivors of the rage virus living on a small island starring actors like Jodie Comer, Aaron Taylor-Johnson and Ralph Fiennes.

Filming spots included the tidal causeway and Lindisfarne Castle which attracts thousands of visitors every year.

FALL FOR IT

Why Sun readers love Wales – their favourite waterfalls & TV-famous castles

SHORE THING

‘It’s the best beach in England’ – Sun readers’ favourite Sussex seasides

The National Trust took over the property in 1944 and it has been open to the public ever since.

Inside the castle, visitors can explore the different rooms, including a dining room, a kitchen, and bedrooms, as well as the upper battery, which has panoramic sea views.

In addition to exploring the interior of the castle, there are plenty of other things to see.

Entry to the castle is £14.30 for adults and £7.20 for children (between 5-17).

The island is also referred to as Holy Island, and it got its nickname after becoming the centre of Anglo-Saxon Christianity in the 7th century.

It was home to saints and it’s considered a very religious place.

But for those who want to move away from its history, there’s plenty to do on the island, like visit its coffee roastery, Pilgrims Coffee.

The business first set up in a yurt, but now even has a cosy cafe on the island too serving up caffeine hits and homemade cakes.

The family that runs Pilgrims Coffee moved from the mainland to Holy Island in 2022.

Another spot to visit is St Aidan’s Winery, where Lindisfarne Mead is made, and visitors to the island can pop in for tastings and browse the shop that sells its wine and beer.

The island has around 160 permanent residents, but it does have places for visitors to stay from hotels to holiday lets.

One of the top spots on Tripadvisor for Holy Island is Belvue Guesthouse which sleeps two guests.

One guest on Tripadvisor wrote: “We had such a lovely stay in Belvue, I think it was one of the best guesthouses we have ever been to!”

There are also cosy B&Bs as well as rooms in the local Ship Inn Pub.

The pub dates back to the 18th century with a dedicated dining room and a beer garden to the back.

It has also made an appearance on TV and was featured as the fictional ‘Seahorse Pub’ in ITV’s Vera.

Visitors can walk the historic Pilgrim’s Way or visit the Gertrude Jekyll Garden.

For seal spotting, head to the harbour or the sand flats around Lindisfarne National Nature Reserve where there are thousands of grey seals especially between February and October.

To get to Lindisfarne, you have to cross the causeway from the mainland which is only accessible at low tide from the town of Beal.

While the tides can be predicted, holidaymakers will need to check the crossings on the day on the Northumberland County Council website.

A NINETIES chart topper, 55 has barely aged a day as she performed in hotpants and a corset, 25 years after her smash hit – but can you guess who she is?

The singer appeared in a TikTok video where she was filmed dancing and singing on stage by her daughter.

The R&B star looked incredible on stage in thigh boots, corset and matching hot pants as she belted out her famous tune.

Previously, she appeared in a television commercial with legendary jazz singer Ella Fitzgerald for KFC when she was just nine years old.

At the age of just 11-years-old, she competed in the hit US talent series Star Search which helped to launch the careers of huge stars like Britney Spears, Christina Aguilera, Usher and Destiny’s Child.

The singer released her first album, Discovery in 1987, produced when she was just 14-years-old, and it gave her two top 10 R&B hits.

PAYING THE PRICE

Is Katie starting to see ‘real’ Lee Andrews after he abandons her on TV?

BALLROOM BUST

Claudia Winkleman is ‘killing’ off Strictly – as she causes TV ‘nightmare’

She later signed with the famous Motown records in 1991, where she achieved mainstream success.

She’s best known for the hit song, I Love Your Smile which went to the top five in 12 territories worldwide and made the top 10 in 22 countries.

If you haven’t guessed already – it is pop legend Shanice – and her daughter Imani lovingly posted the video clip.

She captioned the video: “Watching my mom perform never gets old.”

Fans flocked to comment and one wrote: “My favourite song ever!”

Another said: “Shanice I love Your smile hits harder because I do Love Her Smile.”

A third added: “Soundtrack to my childhood.”

While a fourth said: “I freaking love your mom!!! I’m 52 and she’s been on my Playlist for 32 of those years!!! She’s amazing!!! So cool she’s your mom!!”

Shanice’s 1993 song Saving Forever for You reached number four on the US Billboard Hot 100 Chart.

In 1999 she went onto release When I Close My Eyes which peaked at number 12 on the Billboard hot 100.

Her voice has also been heard on several iconic film soundtracks including Eddie Murphy‘s Boomerang, The Meteor Man as well as Disney’s 1995 classic Pocahontas.

Her voice can also be heard in the backing vocals of Toni Braxton‘s smash hit, Un-Break My Heart.

Shanice married actor and comedian Flex Alexander in February 2000.

As well as sharing their daughter, Imani, the couple also have a son called Elijah Alexander Knox.

THE sun is making more of an appearance and the temperature is warming up, so there couldn’t be a more perfect time than now to book a camping holiday.

And what better place to go to than a campsite that is right by the UK’s best beach?

Follow The Sun’s award-winning travel team on Instagram and Tiktok for top holiday tips and inspiration @thesuntravel. 

Henry’s Campsite is family-run and can be found at the most southerly point of Cornwall and some visitors have even said it feels like being in the ‘Caribbean‘.

On the site, there are a variety of different pitches including ones with a sea view.

Each has an electrical hookup, with some also surrounded by exotic plants.

GO SEA IT

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

GRUBS UP

Best pubs, fish and chip shops and cafes in Sussex – by Sun readers & locals

As for facilities, the campsite has four showers, seven toilets, hot water, washing up facilities, a large washing machine and the showers cost 40p for three minutes.

For some quick essentials, there’s an onsite shop too that sells BBQ charcoal and even local cider.

Each pitch also comes with bricks, in case you want to create a firepit during the warm summer evenings.

To book, keen campers will need to email Henry’s Campsite directly with as many details as possible to secure a spot.

For those who would opt for glamping over camping, there’s the option to book the Bell Tent which comes with either a double bed and single beds, a lamp, rug, and a trunk.

The seaside campsite and its location is such a hit with travellers that it’s even been said to look like it belongs elsewhere.

One visitor wrote on Tripadvisor: “A campsite with a real difference – designed with thought, flair, and so many little touches that make you smile.

“We stayed on the 16th and 17th of September when the wind was howling and the rain pouring down, yet the ambience around the site (especially the main facilities) transported us to the Caribbean!”

Another called it an “outstanding site… such a gem I don’t want to share it!”

Adding to its beauty is the fact that it’s under half an hour away from Kynance Cove.

The beach was recently named the 26th best beach in Europe, according to Europe’s Best Beaches 2026 awards – and was the only one in England to make the list.

The beach is known for its soft white sand and bright blue waters – and it’s also one of the warmest stretches of coastline in the UK.

Aside from beaches, guests nearby can visit Lizard Village – it’s a great spot to grab a bite to eat whether that be the seaside staple fish and chips, to Cornish pasties or a cream tea.

The fishing village of Cadgwith Cove known for its pretty thatched cottages and shingle beach is just three miles away.

TRAINS will run through the night to one of the UK’s busiest airports from today.

Commuters will be able to catch eight new timetabled services that offer more reliable journeys.

All-night rail services between Manchester Piccadilly and Manchester Airport will run from today, in a major new boost to the city’s nighttime economy.

TransPennine Express has scheduled trains to run hourly through the night, every day of the week, with eight new overnight services included.

Greater Manchester residents have shared their excitement, with one saying it is “good to see these services reinstated after all these years,” and others calling it “unbelievable.”

The new schedule hopes to improve airport access, as well as offering better commuting services for hospitality workers and passengers travelling in the early hours of the morning.

BAG IT

Passengers are ditching overweight luggage at airports – how to NEVER get caught out

OPEN UP

Historic attraction reopens after year-long closure with new £2.4m plans

Trains from Manchester Piccadilly to Manchester Airport are generally faster than driving, with the journey taking between 15 and 20 minutes, and a drive taking up to 30 minutes.

This schedule adds to the already simplified train travel system in Manchester, which only sells anytime or off-peak tickets, making services more affordable.

Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester, said: “We’re proud of our thriving night-time economy, and we’re looking to back it with transport that matches how people live and work.

“These all-night trains will help people get to where they need to be – whether that’s catching an early flight, getting home after a late shift, or travelling into town to enjoy everything our night-time economy has to offer.

Nicola Buckley, people director at TransPennine Express, echoed Burnham:  “These all‑night services are about supporting the people and businesses that keep Greater Manchester going 24 hours a day.

“By improving overnight connections to Manchester Airport, we’re making rail a more practical option for workers and passengers alike, while helping to strengthen the region’s night‑time economy.”

MAY half-term is almost here and if you’re looking for a fun way to fill the days, there are a wide range of new theme park rides open across the UK.

Whether your little one is a thrill seeker or a Paw Patrol fan, you won’t be stuck for something to entertain them.

A number of new rides and attractions will be open across the UK’s biggest theme parks during the school break, including nine new additions.

Some of these exciting worlds and rollercoasters are already open to customers.

And there are even themed rooms available at some of these sites for the full experience.

So get planning now for a thrilling and memorable half term break.

SCALE UP

UK’s biggest dinosaur theme park to open its ‘longest ride to date’ this summer

RIDE ON

First look at £8million ride opening at UK’s best seaside theme park this month

Alton Towers

The world’s first Bluey rollercoaster, Bluey the Ride: Here Come The Grannies!, opened at Alton Towers’ CBeebies Land at the end of March.

This kid-friendly coaster features Bluey and Bingo dressed as Janet and Rita, a fun call-back to fan-favourite episode, and you can even book a Bluey-themed room at the park’s hotel this half term.

Blackpool Pleasure Beach

Blackpool Pleasure Beach will open its £8.72 million gyro swing ride Aviktas this Thursday (May 21).

Measuring a whopping 138 feet, the ride will be the tallest of its kind in the UK.

Chessington World of Adventures Resort

Chessington recently opened its highly-anticipated PAW Patrol land, which features four exciting new rides, and also has themed rooms available nearby.

Chase’s Mountain Mission is a rollercoaster suitable for young kids, while Skye’s Helicopter Heroes takes kids on a high-flying mission, and Marshall’s Firetruck Rescue lets kids take a ride on a shiny red truck, and Zuma’s Hovercraft Adventure offers the UK’s first “drifter” ride.

Crealy

Crealy in Devon recently opened an 80-foot drop tower called Pirates’ Plummet last month.

Previously located in Paultons Park under the name Magma, it has been rebuilt at Crealy, where the inverting air race ride Rotor is also set to open.

Paultons Park

And Paultons Park is not at a loss for attractions, with the new themed land Valgard: Realm of the Vikings officially opening its gates today (Saturday, May 16).

The exciting new land will feature new rides, Drakon, the park’s first inverting rollercoaster with a dramatic vertical lift and Vild Swing, which will swing riders 39 feet into the air.

IF you want to do the ‘best experience in the world’ you’ll be pleased to know it costs less than a fiver and a few mere hours from the UK.

A city tour of Portugal’s historic Porto has just become the number one thing to do, according to Tripadvisor.

Called The Unvanquished Tour in Porto City Center, the experience has just topped Tripadvisor’s ‘Travellers’ Choice Awards: Best of the Best Things to Do‘.

Rates start from just £2.64per person and local guides take visitors through the city on a walking tour.

A description of the tour reads: “Dive into 2,000 years of history as you visit the city’s iconic landmarks and hidden gems.

“Led by a passionate guide, this tour provides valuable local insights and recommendations.”

SUN SPOT

Travel experts’ guide to lesser-known holiday spots that are quieter AND cheaper

BARGAIN HOL

Travel companies reveal their CHEAPEST spots this summer, with hols from £189pp

The tour begins at City Hall and heads through the city including stops at Avenida Dos Aliados, which is one of the largest avenues in Porto.

Another stop is at Livraria Lello, what’s considered one of the most beautiful bookshops in the world.

Igreja do Carmo, the narrowest house in Porto, is also on the itinerary as is Porto’s university.

Other stops include at the city gardens, Jewish quarter, train station, and the Dom Luis bridge.

The tour isn’t long either, taking two hours and 30-minutes with a maximum number of 25 people.

The awards are based on quality and quantity of reviews and ratings on Tripadvisor between February 1, 2025 through January 31, 2026.

On Tripadvisor, The Unvanquished Tour in Porto City Center has over 26,000 five-star reviews and it’s recommended by 99.9 per cent of travellers.

One reviewer wrote: “We had Diogo, and he was a fantastic tour guide, genuinely one of the best tours I have done. He gave us a lot of insight about Porto’s history, current situation, recommendations, and lots of jokes!”

Another said the tour was the “best way to see Porto”.

While the price of the tour is under £3, the experience does say “the price is flexible—pay what you think reflects your enjoyment” with tips “welcome and expected”.

Porto itself is Portugal‘s second-largest city that sits by the Douro River, and there’s so much to do outside of the tour too – especially when it comes to food and drink

Firstly, make sure to pick up a gooey pastel de nata which can be bought for as little as €1 (86p).

For savoury dishes, the region is known for its traditional food which includes bacalhau (salted cod fish).

And the Francesinha toasted sandwich which is layered with hot meats, cheeses and smothered in a rich beer sauce.

Of course, Porto is known for its Port production, having been making it since Roman times – and there are plenty of places to try a glass, or two.

One Sun Writer even tried out the Wine Experience which included a tasting and learning the grape-to-bottle process.

Porto is easy to explore on foot – but it also has the Gaia cable car which has incredible views over the city.

Other recommendations include a scenic train ride tour, and a booze cruise.

Here are Tripadvisor’s ‘Top Experiences in the World’

1. The Unvanquished Tour in Porto City Center, Porto, Portugal
2. Peaceful Hiroshima & Miyajima UNESCO 1 Day Bus Tour, Hiroshima, Japan
3. Barcelona in 1 Day: Sagrada Familia, Park Guell,Old Town & Pickup, Barcelona, Spain
4. Amsterdam All-Inclusive 90-Minutes Canal Cruise by Captain Jack, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
5. Beatles Magical Mystery Tour, Liverpool, United Kingdom
6. Berlin’s Best: 2 Hour Walking Tour Third Reich and the Cold War, Berlin, Germany
7. London Small Group Tour of Historical Pubs, London, United Kingdom
8. Classic 4-Day Inca Trail Trek to Machu Picchu from Cusco, Cusco, Peru
9. Krakow–Zakopane: Cable Car, Chocholow Baths, Cheese & Vodka, Krakow, Poland
10. Amanda Cruise – Ha Long, Lan Ha Bay – All Inclusive 2D1N & 3D2N, Hanoi, Vietnam

A BEAUTIFUL countryside town is getting a luxury hotel and country club in a bespoke multi-million pound revamp.

The current site will be knocked down and replaced with a new hotel with a spa and restaurants.

Gatton Manor Hotel & Country Club, nestled in Ockley, near Dorking, Surrey, will demolish its closed hotel and golf course and replace them with a high-end luxury resort.

The new countryside retreat will include 81 guest rooms, two restaurants, a spa with both indoor and wild swimming pools, and a luxury gym with treatment and relaxation areas.

One restaurant will serve fine-dining food, a plan that is earmarked to be a highlight of the refurbishment.

Up to 100 memberships to the gym will be offered to residents within a 3km radius of the new site, given at a preferential rate.

DROP IN

Ten best all-inclusive water park hotels for week-long stays during school holidays

HOL-NO

Butlin’s boss slams new holiday tax plans that could cost Brits extra £100 per trip

Keeping with the luxury fitness aspect of the resort, developers hope to make room for two tennis courts and three padel courts on the site.

This move comes after plans were made to permanently close the 18-hole golf course on-site, which had been running at a loss for a few years.

Spanning 6,629 yards and being operational for over 60 years, this stretch of greenery will be rewilded into a mixed wood pasture with a wildflower meadow and wetland habitats.

The 22-hectare site is located near Dorking, a historic market town in the heart of the Surrey Hills.

It is an affluent area, named one of the best places to live in the UK by The Sunday Times, with its leafy environment and charming villages hailing it as a “Hollywood” of country life.

The plans will also introduce 290 construction jobs in the area for the two-year building phase, as well as 145 positions once completed.

Cllr Roger Adams for Bookham West said: “With global warming and rising temperatures I suspect a lot of people seeking a holiday will no longer be heading to the Mediterranean but may well seek to have staycations, and where better to stay for a holiday than Surrey.

“We’ve got beautiful country here and we do need developments such as this. It will provide employment and enhance the visitor schemes.”

Cllr Monica Weller, also for Bookham West, said: “It really is quite fantastic as far as I’m concerned. A business like this has got to bring something really quite fantastic to our area and that is really to be welcomed.”

THE 2026 Eurovision Song Contest final is officially here, as Brits prepare themselves for the inevitable ‘null points.’

Over the years, many A-list celebrities have had a go at the world’s most famous singing competition, with some of them more unexpected than others.

Olivia Newton-John

Before her Sandy days, Grease star Olivia Newton-John represented the United Kingdom at Eurovision.

Singing “Long Live Love” back in 1974, Olivia managed to secure joint 4th place behind winners, ABBA.

Celine Dion

A 20-year-old Celine Dion competed in Eurovision back in 1988, singing “Ne partez pas sans moi” for Switzerland.

The Titanic star quickly transformed from a French-language star to a global icon, winning the competition by just one point.

SHOW BAN

How Eurovision contestant dodges 28-year ban on live instruments in the final

GOOD GUESS?

Strictly fans convinced they know star joining Emma Willis & Johannes Radebe

Blue

British boyband Blue proudly represented the UK in 2011, singing “I Can” to audiences in Düsseldorf.

The band, comprising of Simon Webbe, Duncan James, Antony Costa and Lee Ryan, scored a respectable 100 points, finishing 11th in the competition.

Bonnie Tyler

Beloved Welsh icon Bonnie Tyler represented the United Kingdom in 2013, singing “Believe in Me.”

Bonnie should have been Holding Out for a Hero during the competition, scoring only 23 points and coming 19th.

Cascada

Dance and electronic act Cascada represented Germany in 2013 with the song “Glorious”

The Evacuate the Dancefloor and Everytime We Touch singer finished in a disappointing 21st place in the competition.

Flo Rida

American rapper and singer Flo Rida made one of the most unexpected appearances in Eurovision.

Representing San Marino in 2021, Flo Rida teamed up with singer Senhit to rap a verse of her song, “Adrenaline.”

ABBA

The most famous entry of all, ABBA’s debut at Eurovision catapulted them to global superstardom.

Singing iconic hit “Waterloo” for Sweden back in 1974, their winning performance in Brighton became the start of their legendary careers.