Leisure & Travel / Features
Railway routes: 10 of the best train journeys in Europe – fast or slow
A new book on rail travel across the continent showcases gorgeous scenery, historic routes and adventures at a slower pace. Railways in Europe are many things. With their grand stations, history and evocative destinations, they evoke a timelessness that is absent from...
Extraordinary Escapes with Sandi Toksvig: New Channel 4 series visits remarkable holiday homes
A new book, accompanying the TV series, details the magnificent properties featured alongside many more that will inspire a dream UK getaway. The Chalet, Herefordshire Set 500ft above the River Wye on the steep slope rising to Symonds Yat Rock, this red timber Nordic...
43 best free days out! From light festivals in London to fossil-hunting in the Isle of Wight
From light parades to dinosaur hunts, an 80s experience and an adventure with the Very Hungry Caterpillar. LONDON Light Festival at Battersea Power Station, Battersea The newly public riverside area in front of the former power station is playing host to six...
Winter warmers: 10 of the UK’s best cosy hotels to book in January and banish the winter blues
The start of the new year might be cold and dark, but the UK has no shortage of cosy hotels that will be ready to welcome guests with a crackling fire and comfy bed, writes Lucy Gilmore. Lord Crewe Arms, Northumberland Dating back to the 12th century, the Lord Crewe...
15 winter travel adventures: Stay on a frozen lake in Sweden or take an ice drive in Estonia
Even if it’s freezing outside, you can still enjoy family fun in the UK or further afield. Coast and cocktails Pembrokeshire From the cosy confines of a lodge near Abermawr beach, guests warm up with hearty Welsh breakfasts and a woodland walk before taking the plunge...
Golden slumbers: 10 glorious woodland retreats for an autumn break
With our forests about to burst into colour, we pick cosy woodland cottages and eco-cabins for making the most of a British autumn. Cream of cottages, New Forest There’s no better time to visit the New Forest than autumn, when the trees blaze auburn and saffron and...
It’s all Greek to me! 10 of the best Greek islands to visit (that you might not have heard of)
From Santorini’s breath-taking sunsets to Crete’s beautiful beaches, the Greek islands have long drawn tourists from across the world. With spectacular scenery, gorgeous weather and fascinating history, the allure of these islands isn’t exactly a secret - and around...
Only in Scotland: Five breath-taking Scottish cities to visit this summer
Some of the world’s most spectacular sights are just a train ride away. Here’s what Scotland has to offer you this summer. It just wouldn’t be summer without a city break. Art galleries, shopping, sitting on a café terrace and watching the world pass by, and this...
Don’t forget your best friend! 7 dog-friendly UK holiday ideas
If you have a pet in your family, you probably already know how hard it can be to leave them behind when you go on holiday. So if you’re thinking about booking a break, why not take your furry friend with you this time? Not only can this save on pet-sitting fees and...
Happy snapping! Fun photography projects that you can start today
Many enjoy picking up our cameras and smartphones to explore our world through a different lens. It’s amazing how our perspectives on everyday objects and scenes can change when we just look a little closer. With this shift in perspective often comes a new found...
Right on our doorstep! 22 inspiring places to visit in the UK
Here in the UK, we are fortunate enough to have an abundance of natural beauty and culture right on our doorstep. With so many interesting and beautiful places to choose from when planning a trip, we thought we’d highlight a few of our favourites to hopefully give you...
On your bike! 9 beautiful cycle routes to ride in the UK
After the events of the last year, many of us are looking forward to regaining some freedom and exploring The Great Outdoors. One of the best ways to discover the beauty and diversity of the UK is by bike - and the health benefits that cycling provides is just an...